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Hon. Kafilat Ogbara ‘Should Refrain From Making Unverified Political Statements’ On Owode-Onirin Market Demolition – Mayor Dele Oshinowo 

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Owode-Onirin Market

By Oki Samson

Published by Blacktalker

The demolition of the popular market known for its specialty in motor spare parts, Owode Onirin market situated in Agboyi-Ketu LCDA has come with a rude shock for those who own shops and those who buy products there. The same is for the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Mayor Dele Oshinowo who is also saddened that a revenue-generating cashcow for his LCDA has just been destroyed.

But the hardworking Chairman is rather incensed by the allegations that he personally led, directly championed or indirectly supported the destruction of the market in order for him to build a residential estate, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.

For Mayor Dele Oshinowo, the allegation is brewing and he has decided to state his own narrative. The allegation being pushed in a viral video online by the member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Kosofe federal constituency, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara to the public, he considers nothing short of a personal vendetta.

The Chairman observed that it is absolutely the prerogative of the Honorable Representative to visit the scene of an incident of such magnitude under her legislative capacity. He also observed that it is required for her to grant press interviews after such visits.

But he frowns at the fact that the Honorable Representative Kafilat Ogbara went ahead to cast aspersions on the efforts of the State Government, that of an unnamed Honourable! Commissioner, his person as the Chairman, and the Agboyi-Ketu LCDA leadership without making recourse to get adequate information before making her claims. And that not to mainstream media but flying a video on social media to gain cheap political likes and for rumour-mongers to throw around is very unbecoming of a leader, that he respects.

For Mayor Dele Oshinowo, he would rather have loved that the Honorable Representative seek adequate information about what has led to the unfortunate situation, what is being done by those who are really on ground, so that they can jointly seek ways to find a solution. With such a move, things would have been properly placed in the public eye and for posterity’s sake.

Hon. Oshinowo in a press statement he personally e-signed and made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP to set the record straight. ‘I wish to address recent developments pertaining to Owode-Onirin Market, particularly a circulating video featuring Honourable Chief Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara.

In the said video, while addressing a crowd at the Owode-Onirin Spare Parts Market, Hon. Ogbara mentioned claims made by an unnamed Honourable Commissioner in Lagos State to the effect that, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA was responsible for the demolition of a part of the Owode-Onirin Spare Parts market, and that the State Government was collaborating with the Council on the demolition.’

‘I want to categorically state that neither I, as Executive Chairman, nor Agboyi-Ketu L.C.D.A., the council I lead, played any role (whether major or minor) in the demolition that took place at Owode-Onirin Market and I believe Hon. Ogbara may have been misinformed regarding this issue. The demolition was carried out by the Olowu Family and their agents.’

‘On the day of the incident, I, along with several of my staff members, was tear-gassed while attempting to halt the demolition. Since that day, I have been facing harassment through over five (5) petitions filed against me by the Olowu Family at various police commands, including Alagbon Police Command, Ikoyi, Kam Salem Headquarters Annex, Obalende and the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

These acts stem from my strong efforts to protect the market from their attempts at takeover. Just last week, they initiated contempt proceedings against me in Suit No: ID/1757/1994—Mr. Femi Festus Olowu & Anor vs. Mayor Dele Oshinowo & Anor—claiming that I am obstructing the enforcement of a court order that they allege entitles them to occupy a portion of the market.’

‘For some time now, I have been dedicated to defending the interests of the traders at Owode-Onirin Market, often at significant personal and financial cost. It saddens me to then hear baseless rumors suggesting my involvement in the market’s demolition; such claims are utterly false.

As the Executive Chairman, I regard the Owode-Onirin Market as a vital public asset, and I am committed to safeguarding it from appropriation by private individuals. I assure you that neither the Council nor the State Government has plans to convert the market land into a residential estate, as has been suggested in the said video.’

‘Owode-Onirin Market is, and will remain, a thriving marketplace, essential for the livelihoods of its traders and revenue generating earner for the LCDA. In light of the demolition of the market by the Olowu Family, I am actively engaging with Mr. Governor, the Honourable Attorney General, and other key State Government officials to find a peaceful resolution to this matter, in order to facilitate an environment where our traders can operate without disruption.’

He pleaded: ‘As partners in progress for the betterment of our local communities, I had hoped that Hon. Ogbara would have reached out to me to verify her information rather than perpetuating harmful rumours regarding the Council’s involvement in the said demolition.

Therefore, I respectfully urge Hon. Ogbara to refrain from making unverified political statements that could escalate tensions in our Community and instead collaborate with both the State Government and Local Council to foster peace in the market, thereby promoting progress within our community and our dear State’.

‘I urge everyone to dismiss any rumors linking myself or Agboyi-Ketu L.C.D.A. to the demolition that occurred in the Market on the 6th of March, 2025. My focus remains steadfast on protecting the market land from external pressures, ensuring that the best interests of our Council and the traders are upheld. Thank you for your understanding and continued support’, the Executive Chairman, Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Mayor Dele Oshinowo concluded.

Pernod Ricard Nigeria Donates 2 Breathalyzers, 100 Reflective Jackets to FRSC

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Pernod Ricard Nigeria-FRSC

As part of its sustained commitment to promoting responsible drinking and safer roads, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, a leading name in the wines and spirits industry, has donated two high-precision breathalysers and 100 reflective safety jackets to the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC.

This gesture reinforces the company’s ongoing support for the FRSC’s nationwide Don’t Drink and Drive campaign. The donation was officially presented during a visit to the Corps’ Lagos office in Ojodu.

Breathalysers are essential tools that measure the blood alcohol concentration (BAC), these devices help identify intoxicated drivers, thereby preventing accidents, and promoting a culture of accountability on the roads.

During the handover, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Michael Ehindero, represented by the Human Resources Director, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Dr. Joshua Ademuwagun highlighted the company’s deep-rooted values around responsible consumption and community safety.

He stated, “At Pernod Ricard, we believe in conviviality and the freedom to enjoy life responsibly. This donation empowers the FRSC to enforce road safety and drives home the message that drinking and driving should never mix,”.

The reflective jackets will aid field officers in staying visible and protected while on duty, especially during night patrols and emergencies.

FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Corps Commander Kehinde G Hamzat expressed gratitude for the donation and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to reducing road fatalities through strict enforcement and collaboration.

This partnership aligns with Pernod Ricard’s global initiative, Responsible Hosting, an essential pillar of its Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap, which focuses on creating a more convivial world without excesses by tackling harmful drinking and misuse of alcohol.

By equipping officers with tools that help deter drunk driving and enhance visibility on highways, Pernod Ricard continues to play a meaningful role in promoting safer roads and smarter choices.

Empowering Girls, Enriching Communities: The Impact of “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative”

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In a bid to address the disturbing issue of menstrual poverty and to promote the dignity of womanhood, especially among the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Nigeria, the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative” has made tremendous impact.

In a partnership with key stakeholders, the initiative has provided free reusable sanitary pads to boost menstrual hygiene education to girls and women in two IDP camps in Abuja and Benue state.

The project, which impacted over 2,000 girls and women, has left a positive impact, putting smiles on the faces of these vulnerable persons.

Meeting Farida Abubakar, a 14-year-old internally displaced person, was a revelation. She has been living in the Area 1, IDP Camp in Abuja for a long time while Sewuese Terfa, a 16-year-old IDP girl from the Ortese IDP Camp in Benue, also gave shocking experiences of what they go through every month in the process of arresting their monthly menstrual flow.

According to Farida Abubakar, with her voice laced with frustration said, “When I get my period, I’m forced to use pieces of clothes because I don’t have money to procure sanitary pads. To Sewuese Terfa, “Sanitary Pads is expensive and a luxury. I need to eat first before I sort my menstrual cycle,” Comfort narrated as she looked quivered.

Their stories are not peculiar as millions of other girls and women in Nigeria face similar challenges due to poverty. The lack of access to sanitary pads affect not only their health, but also their dignity, self-esteem, and education.

But there is hope said Theresa Moses, Convener, The “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” a project of GATMASH MEDIA, in partnership with Access Bank, has launched a ‘Pad Bank’ to provide free reusable sanitary pads to girls and women in need. The initiative is aimed at promoting menstrual health and hygiene, particularly among IDPs in Abuja and Benue, with other states coming soon, she added.

The reusable pads are designed to be sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. They can be washed and reused multiple times, thereby reducing the need for disposable pads and minimizing waste. The initiative also promotes menstrual hygiene education, teaching girls and women how to properly use, wash, and store their reusable pads.

Essentially, the ‘Pad Bank’ initiative is designed to ensure continuous delivery of sanitary pads to the IDP camps, and providing a sustainable solution to menstrual poverty. The initiative aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly:

SDG 4: Quality Education; SDG 5: Gender Equality; SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action.

Quintessentially, Access Bank’s contribution to the initiative is significant. The bank has provided resources to support the ‘Pad Bank’ initiative, enabling the distribution of reusable pads to IDP girls and women. Access Bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development is evident in its partnership with the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative.”

Aisha Adamu, one of the beneficiaries remarked said knowing that there will be continuous access to sanitary pads every month is more than joyous for her.

“I’m grateful for the sanitary pads. I can now attend school without worrying about my period,” Joy Terseer, a 12-year-old IDP girl reiterated.

“The pads have given me confidence. I feel like I can face the world again and do exploit unlike before when fears of insults and shame from sudden appearance of my period, kept me in limbo,” another beneficiaries, Hadiza Ibrahim, 15-year-old IDP girl expressed her joy and fulfillment

Others who commended Gatmash Media for the freebies said, “I use pieces of clothes during my period, but now I feel empowered.” – Ojime Doose, 13-year-old IDP girl explained while Washima Shachia , a 16-year-old IDP girl added, “This pad Bank will be a life changer. I will no longer be held back by my period.”

“I’m thankful for the support. The menstrual hygiene education have improved my health and well-being,” Esther Ayuba, 14-year-old IDP girl added to the clusters of voices that spoke.

Responding to the kind gesture on the IDP women, Ms. Lizzy Asan, the Benue State coordinator of the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” expressed gratitude to the organization for addressing the critical issue of menstrual poverty among IDPs.

“This initiative has brought relief and dignity to our girls and women. We’ve seen a significant improvement in their confidence and we’re grateful for the sustainable solution provided by the reusable sanitary pads and the Pad Bank.”

Mrs. Liyatu Yusuf, the women leader at the Durumi IDP Camp, Area 1, Abuja, also shared her joy and appreciation for the initiative. “We were struggling to afford sanitary pads, and this initiative has been a game-changer.

“The pads are comfortable, reusable, and easy to maintain. Our girls can now attend school without worrying about their periods, and we’re grateful for the menstrual hygiene education provided,” she reiterated.

On his part, Alhaji Ibrahim Amadu, Camp Chairman of the Durumi Area 1 IDP Camp in Abuja, commended the organization for their thoughtful initiative. “This project has brought hope and dignity to our girls and women. We’re grateful for the support, and we’re looking forward to continued supply of the pads as the impact of this initiative would be felt for a long time, and we’re thankful for the organization’s commitment to improving the lives of IDPs.”

Checkers Custard, a renowned brand in Nigeria, has been a valuable partner to the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative” in its quest to promote menstrual health and hygiene among IDPs. The brand’s contribution to the initiative has been significant, providing its products, Checkers Custard and Pap Flavour, to IDP families and supporting their nutritional needs.

By partnering with the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative,” Checkers Custard has demonstrated its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community development. The brand’s involvement in the initiative has not only provided sustenance to IDP families but also helped to promote dignity and well-being among girls and women.

PAD A GIRL

Other partners include: Vita Baites Foods, makers of Kuli-kuli snacks (Peanut Cookies), an indigenous brand in Nigeria, has also partnered with the “Access PAD Me A Girl Initiative” to provide its delicious crunchy kuli-kuli to IDP families. The brand’s nutritional products have been a valuable addition to the initiative, supporting the health and well-being of IDP girls and women.

The kuli-kuli, made from nutritious ingredients, provides a healthy snack option for IDPs. Vita Baites Foods’ commitment to quality and nutrition is evident in its products, which have been well-received by IDP families.

Other sponsors includes Pro Star, a prominent sports equipment and apparel company, Jeffery Kuaran Foundation, Nigeria Online Media Alliance (NOMA), and other individuals who wants to be annoyimous.

FG RELEASES 50 BILLION NAIRA TO VARSITY UNIONS AS TINUBU REAFFIRMS EDUCATION PRIORITY

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FG RELEASES 50 BILLION NAIRA TO VARSITY UNIONS

The Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Olatunji Alausa, has announced the release of 50 billion naira by the Federal Government to the academic and non-academic staff unions of federal universities for the settlement of earned allowances as promised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This landmark development stands as yet another testament to President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to fundamentally transform Nigeria’s education sector. It reflects the administration’s bold resolve to transition the nation from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy through strategic investments in education, infrastructure, and human capital.

According to Alausa, “This intervention is not just a financial transaction—it is a reaffirmation of our President’s belief in the capacity of Nigerian youth and the invaluable role that academic and non-academic staff play in nurturing them. By prioritizing their welfare, we are laying the foundation for a future where every Nigerian child receives highly qualitative and globally competitive education.”

The Minister expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s heartfelt appreciation to both academic and non-academic unions for their sustained trust in his administration and for fostering an atmosphere of peace and cooperation across Nigeria’s federal institutions.

He said notably, the country is currently experiencing one of the longest uninterrupted academic sessions in recent history—a feat attributed to the mutual understanding and shared commitment between the government and the university community.

The President reiterated that, “The youth are the heartbeat of our country. Their future is extremely important to me and my administration. Keeping our children in school is not negotiable. It is my commitment that strikes in our institutions will soon become a thing of the past—forever.”

The Honourable Ministry of Education has also pledged to continue working collaboratively with all stakeholders across the education value chain to ensure that every Nigerian child has access to quality education, comparable to global standards.

Blacktalker reports that this announcement marks a significant step in the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reinforces the Federal Government’s determination to make the Nigerian education sector a shining model for Africa and the world.

LAWMA APPREHENDS 300 FOR WASTE DISPOSAL OFFENCES

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LAWMA Steps Up Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping Across Lagos

The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA has arrested over 300 persons and prosecuted scores, for waste disposal infractions in a renewed offensive, through surveillance and investigative activities.

The arrests resulted through a collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), from day and night surveillance efforts, aimed at identifying and apprehending individuals and businesses involved in illegal dumping across the city.

Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, confirmed that the agency had deployed comprehensive strategies, including the use of surveillance teams and mobile enforcement units, to monitor environmental infractions and ensure compliance with sanitation laws.

He said, “Our night surveillance and enforcement team, working with LAGESC, has apprehended over 300 people for various waste-related infractions. Many have already been charged to court and many sentenced to community service. This will serve as a deterrent to those bent on derailing efforts of the Authority to sustain cleanliness of the environment”.

“I like to note some specific incidents, including the arrest of one Engr. Akinsola along Egbeda-Akowonjo Road at about 9:20pm on February 7, 2025. The individual was caught dumping waste at the road median, claiming to be a police officer during questioning. Investigations later revealed his residence had no waste bin and was not even registered with any Private Sector Participant (PSP) for proper waste disposal. He confessed to acting under the instruction of his landlord. Legal proceedings have commenced against him”.

“In another operation on Shasha Road, 25 individuals, including six car owners, were arrested for using personal vehicles to dump large quantities of waste at the fence of Abati Primary School. Similarly, a woman identified as Fatima was caught on February 5, 2025, at 10:37pm dumping waste near Micom Bus Stop along Akowonjo Road. Like others, her residence was not registered with any PSP. She is currently being prosecuted”, he stressed.

These arrests, according to him, revealed the scale of illegal dumping activities across the city, especially under cover of darkness, with the culprits claiming ignorance of the law or blaming their landlords.

Dr. Gbadegesin referenced Section 82(1) of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, which prohibits waste dumping in unauthorised locations such as road medians, drains, and canals, noting that offenders risked fines of at least ₦25,000 and potential jail time under Section 109 of the same law.

“LAWMA will not relent in its mandate to make Lagos cleaner and safer for all. Enforcement is key, and we are leaving no stone unturned,” he insisted, adding that the Authority would continue to monitor, arrest and prosecute offenders.

He also noted that the agency runs continuous community sensitisation programs, to educate residents on proper waste disposal, and door-to-door campaigns, to promote patronage of PSP operators and ownership of waste bins under the ‘Adopt A Bin’ programme.

The LAWMA boss observed that new innovations, like the deployment of tricycle compactors and expansion of recycling programs, would help reduce the city’s dependence on dumpsites and improve access to waste collection in difficult-to-reach areas.

He called on residents to play their part by reporting erring neighbors or landlords, patronising only registered PSPs, and taking collective ownership of their environment.

“Our goal is to prevent avoidable issues like flooding and disease outbreaks. We can’t achieve this without the support of the people. Environmental protection is everyone’s responsibility, this is the era of, “See something, Say something” he concluded.

For complaints and inquiries, residents are encouraged to call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.

LSSTF Donates Vehicle to Lagos State Command and Control Centre

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LSSTF

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF has donated a vehicle to the Lagos State Command and Control Centre as part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing security infrastructure in the state.

The official handover took place with the Admin Director of LSSTF, Mr. Adegbola Lewis presenting the vehicle to the General Manager of the Command and Control Centre, Mr. Femi K. Giwa.

In a brief ceremony, both officials emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in strengthening the state’s security architecture.

Blacktalker reports that the donated vehicle is expected to boost mobility and operational efficiency for the Centre, which plays a vital role in monitoring and managing emergency response across Lagos.

The event marks another milestone in LSSTF’s support for security agencies in Lagos, ensuring swift response to emergencies and improved coordination.

Navy Commander Pays Courtesy Visit to Lagos State Security Trust Fund

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The Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft, Lagos State Command, Commodore P.P. Nimmyel, has paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF as part of efforts to strengthen security collaboration in the state.

Blacktalker reports that the visit served as a platform to discuss areas of mutual interest in enhancing maritime and inland security, particularly around coastal communities and critical infrastructure.

The Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun, received Commodore Nimmyel and his delegation at the Fund’s headquarters in Lagos.

In his remarks, Dr. Balogun appreciated the Nigerian Navy for its pivotal role in securing Lagos’ waterways and pledged continued support for inter-agency cooperation.

He emphasized the Fund’s commitment to working closely with the Navy and other security agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

NAVY-LSSTF

Commodore Nimmyel, who recently assumed command of NNS Beecroft, expressed appreciation to the LSSTF for its consistent support to security agencies in Lagos State.

He reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain and maintaining peace and order within the state.

The visit concluded with a group photograph featuring members of the LSSTF and the Navy Beecroft team, symbolizing the renewed spirit of collaboration between both institutions.

Community Policing: ‘There Is A Serious And Good Relationship Between Arewa Community And DPO Man Center’- Arewa Leaders Hails CSP Ayo Elijah 

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AREWA-MANCENTRE

By Oki Samson

For his proactive community engagement and prompt citizen’s response, the DPO of ManCenter division under Area F Command of the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Ayo Elijah was passionately praised by leaders of the Ikeja community where he currently serves, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.

This was during the familiarization visit of the 41st Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olorundare Moshood Jimoh to the Area F Police Command, Ikeja, the area where the ManCenter Division is domiciled.

On this special visit, the CP was accompanied by the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF Board Member, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan and his Police management team such as Deputy Commissioner of Police, DC Operations, DCP Fatai Tijani, DC Finance and Admin, DCP Khan Salihu Usman, AC Operations, ACP Olusola Oyewole, and the Command PPRO, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin. 

He was received by the Area F Commander, ACP Paul Azuka Okafor, all the nine (9) DPOs under the jurisdiction, Vice Chairman of Ojodu LCDA, Hon. Bunmi Oluyadi; Special Adviser (Arewa matters) to Ikeja LGA Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu; Royal fathers, Seriki of Ikeja; PCRC Area F leaders and members such as Oyeniyi Oluwaniyi, who is the Chairman of the PCRC Alausa Division, Elder Samuel Akande, Chairman of the PCRC Ojodu Division, the Arewa community, the Igbo community, and other security stakeholders in Ikeja, Lagos.

While acknowledging the Area F Commander, ACP Paul Azuka Okafor as ‘authentic Area Commander’, the CP commended the DPOs under the area command for co-operating with their Area Commander.

Of special note, the Commissioner of Police who resumed in Lagos on 18th February 2025, CP Moshood Jimoh noted the cordiality which exists between the DPOs in Area F in particular and the PCRC in their communities. He revealed that ‘Unlike other States, where PCRC leaders would write various petitions against the DPOs because of disagreement and communication issues, you are better.

I specifically thank the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji for the roles that the PCRC played before, during and after the EndSARS issue. The PCRC were the ones in the forefront of engaging the communities.’

To accentuate the stance of the CP, the Arewa community in Ikeja led by their leaders, Special Adviser on Arewa matters to Ikeja LGA Chairman, Alhaji (Hon.) Ibrahim Adamu, Seriki Hausawa, Ikeja, Mallam Musa Abdullah; District Head, Anifowoshe, Aliyu Ibrahim; Secretary, Arewa Community, Mohammed M. Umar; Adviser, Danjuma Mohammed; Treasurer, Ali Mohamed, and Assistant Secretary, Abdul Ibrahim were vociferous in their acknowledgement of the peaceful coexistence and community building style deployed by the DPO of the ManCenter division, CSP Ayo Elijah.

The Special Adviser (Arewa matters) to Ikeja LGA Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Adamu speaking on behalf of the Arewa community commended the DPO of MANCENTER division, CSP Ayo Elijah for enthroning community policing ideals and championing a pro-community stance in all of his activities. He hinted: ‘There is a serious and good relationship between the Arewa community and the DPO in ManCenter Police Station, CSP Ayo Elijah.

For instance, in the Arewa community, there was a time when drug abuse was a serious problem to us. We have been having different DPOs before him which we always report to them but we have not seen a result.’

‘But the current DPO has helped us tackle many of these challenges and there’s peace in the community now.
The Arewa community in Ikeja is drug-free now. I would like to use this opportunity to thank the DPO of ManCenter Police station, CSP Ayo Elijah. I would really appreciate that.’
 
Adamu added: ‘Also, I would like to thank him because he is not like other DPOs in the past that their communication is very poor. When anything happens, my people will come to me, because I’m the Special Adviser (SA) to the Chairman of Ikeja Local Government on Arewa Matters. They will come to my office, they will come to my business place and complain to me. Now that we have this DPO, things are different. It has never been so, I have been living in Lagos for 24 years now, so I know a lot of things happening in Ikeja.’

The structure of Area F Police Command comprises 9 divisions. The divisions are Ikeja, Alausa, Ojodu, Makinde, ManCenter, Akinpelu, Shogunle, Mosafejo, and Ilupeju, with four police posts.

It is worthy of note that last week, the DPO of ManCenter division, CSP Ayo Elijah was named The Pride Newspaper Most Outstanding DPO of the Year. He also won the prestigious Trek Africa Awards as the Trek Africa Best DPO of the Year 2024 last December, 2024. It is believed that the MAN Center’s DPO, CSP Ayo Elijah will not rest on his oars to promote the ideals of community policing in his policing job.

Polaris Bank Pledges Continuous Partnership with NDLEA to Combat Drug Abuse, Trafficking, Money Laundering

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POLARIS BANK-NDLEA
Polaris Bank’s MD with Executive Directors of the bank alongside the NDLEA team during their courtesy visit to the bank recently.

Polaris Bank has reaffirmed its unwavering support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA in the fight against drug abuse, trafficking, and money laundering in Nigeria and beyond.

The pledge was made by the Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal, during a courtesy visit by a 15-member NDLEA management team to the Bank’s headquarters in Lagos last Wednesday.

Polaris Bank has been a longstanding supporter of NDLEA’s mission, sponsoring advocacy initiatives, and media campaigns, and providing tools and infrastructure to aid the agency’s operations.

Speaking during the visit, Mr. Lawal emphasized that the partnership is rooted in shared values and social responsibility, stating, “The essence of Polaris Bank is not just profitability but fulfilling a moral obligation to society. Our collaboration with NDLEA underscores our commitment to combating crime and protecting our communities.”

He further noted that the Bank’s social responsibility efforts go beyond compliance, highlighting Polaris Bank’s resolve to deepen its partnership with the NDLEA in addressing pressing societal issues.

In appreciation, the NDLEA delegation decorated Mr. Lawal for his and the Bank’s outstanding contributions in supporting the agency’s objectives.

The Bank’s Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), Charles Oso, was also honored for his leadership in maintaining strong compliance and anti-money laundering systems within the Bank.

The NDLEA team, led by the Director of Assets and Financial Investigation, representing the Chairman/CEO, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul, praised Polaris Bank’s consistent partnership and advocacy efforts, especially in supporting drug rehabilitation programs across Nigeria.

The agency acknowledged that under the leadership of Brigadier General Buba Marwa (retired), NDLEA has made significant progress through advocacy, enforcement, and support services, including the establishment of free toll lines for drug-related assistance.

The NDLEA representative lauded the enduring relationship with Polaris Bank, citing the Bank’s meaningful impact in boosting the agency’s operational effectiveness and strategic initiatives.

Polaris Bank’s efforts were recognized as pivotal in enhancing the national response to drug-related crimes, with the NDLEA noting that the Bank stands out as a committed private sector partner in tackling drug abuse and financial crimes.

Present at the reception were Polaris Bank’s Executive Directors: Chris Ofikulu, Abimbola Ozomah, and Sharafadeen Muhammed, who joined the MD in welcoming the NDLEA delegation.

Polaris Bank, named Nigeria’s Digital Bank of the Year from 2021 to 2024, remains committed to driving inclusive growth, empowering communities, and fostering a safer society.

Save and Win Promo: Union Bank Rewards Customers with Motorcycles, Cash Prizes

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UNION BANK SAVE AND WIN PROMO

Union Bank of Nigeria has rewarded another set of customers in the ongoing Save and Win Palli Promo 4 campaign. Six lucky customers each won a brand-new motorcycle, and 120 additional winners won cash prizes.


The third monthly hybrid live draws were transparently conducted at the Bank’s Sabo, Yaba Branch in Lagos under the supervision of relevant regulatory institutions. For integrity purposes, some of the winners were contacted to congratulate and remind them that the Bank will never call to request or confirm their confidential banking details such as BVN, date of birth, pins or passwords.

Save & Win Palli Promo 4 is a nationwide campaign designed to reward both new and existing customers with cash prizes and other exciting gifts worth N131,000,000. This initiative aims to support them in achieving their savings goals while getting rewarded at the same time.

To stand a chance to win, customers can continue to top up their savings in multiples of N10,000 or more and perform a minimum of five transactions a month to increase their chances of winning in the draws. This promo is open to new and existing savings and current account holders.

Prospective customers can download the UnionMobile app on their smartphones to open accounts or walk into any Union Bank branch. Returning customers can call the 24-hour Contact Centre on 07007007000 or visit any Union Bank branch nationwide to reactivate dormant accounts.

About Union Bank Plc:

Established in 1917 and listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 1971, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc. is a household name and one of Nigeria’s long-standing and most respected financial institutions. The Bank is a trusted and recognisable brand with an extensive network of over 300 branches across Nigeria.

The Bank currently offers a variety of banking services to both individual and corporate clients, including current, savings, and deposit account services, funds transfer, foreign currency domiciliation, loans, overdrafts, equipment leasing, and trade finance.

The Bank also offers customers convenient electronic banking channels and products, including Online Banking, Mobile Banking, Debit Cards, ATMs, and POS Systems.