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LAGOS TOURISM MINISTRY SALUTES MO ABUDU ON TIME 100 GLOBAL HONOUR

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MO ABUDU

The Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has extended heartfelt congratulations to the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of EbonyLife Group, Ms. Mo Abudu on her prestigious recognition as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2025.

The Commissioner Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, while describing the honour as both remarkable and well-deserved, applauded Ms. Abudu for her unparalleled impact on the global creative landscape through storytelling, media innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to changing the African narrative.

Mrs. Benson-Awoyinka noted that Ms. Abudu’s latest recognition stands as a proud moment for Lagos State and the Nigerian film industry as a whole, affirming the vibrancy and excellence of local talent on a world-class platform.

“Mo Abudu’s trailblazing work continues to redefine what is possible within Africa’s creative economy. Her journey is a powerful testament to the resilience, vision, and global relevance of Lagos-based creatives,” she said.

The Commissioner highlighted EbonyLife’s strategic contributions to the entertainment ecosystem, from film and television production to talent development and industry funding, which have positioned Lagos as a thriving hub for creative and cultural expression.

She also emphasized that the recognition by TIME is not only an individual accolade but a symbol of growing global appreciation for African voices, ideas, and innovation.

“As a State, we celebrate this milestone with immense pride. Mo Abudu’s success echoes our ongoing efforts to strengthen the creative industry as a driver of economic growth, youth empowerment, and cultural diplomacy,” the Commissioner stated.

Blacktalker reports that she encouraged young creatives in Lagos and across Nigeria to see this moment as motivation to pursue excellence, amplify African stories, and believe in the power of their dreams.

“On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, I extend my warmest congratulations to Ms. Mo Abudu. Her legacy continues to shine a global spotlight on Lagos as the heartbeat of Africa’s creative energy,” the Commissioner concluded.

Adekunle Gold Visits Lagos Commissioner for Tourism, Seeks Cultural Collaboration

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The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has received sensational Nigerian musician, Adekunle Kosoko, popularly known as Adekunle Gold on a courtesy visit aimed at strengthening ties between the government and the entertainment industry.

The high-profile meeting, which took place at the Commissioner’s office, also had the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, in attendance.

Benson-Awoyinka lauded Adekunle Gold for his achievements in the music industry and for remaining a cultural ambassador for the state. She emphasized the government’s dedication to creating platforms that empower youth and stimulate growth within the creative economy.

“We are proud of our creatives who continue to raise the flag of Lagos high on global stages,” the Commissioner said. “Our doors remain open for partnerships that spotlight our heritage, empower our youth, and position Lagos as a global cultural destination.”

Adekunle Gold, recognized for his unique fusion of traditional and contemporary sounds, expressed his commitment to supporting grassroots talent and showcasing the richness of Lagos’s heritage through music and artistic expression.

The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding to explore concrete projects that bridge the gap between traditional culture and modern entertainment, ensuring that Lagos continues to stand at the forefront of artistic innovation and cultural tourism in Africa.

Blacktalker reports that the visit marks a significant step toward strategic collaboration aimed at leveraging the entertainment sector to further promote Lagos State’s vibrant cultural identity and tourism potential.

Court Orders Oba Alatishe to Pay N500 million Damages for libel to Asiwaju Adegunwa

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Court Nullifies Shell, AFC, Others’ ICC arbitration in Tempo Energy suit over OML 29

An Abeokuta High Court presided over by Justice E.O. Osinuga has slammed N500 million damages against Oba Adetoye Alatishe, the Gbengande of Ososa, in Ijebuland, Ogun State, for libel against a foremost industrialist, Dr. Sulaiman Adegunwa.

Oba Alatishe was also ordered to apologise and do a retraction in three national newspapers, namely Punch, ThisDay, and the Nation, for the malicious petition against the Claimant that was also published in the City People Magazine on January 15th and Obanta Newsday on August 7th, both in 2019.

This was in a case at the High Court sitting in Isabo, Abeokuta, on Friday, 11th April 2025, where Justice Osinuga stated that the defamatory petition against the Claimant and the publications were demeaning to the Claimant’s highly earned reputation.

The judge equally awarded N500,000 as cost of litigation against the royal father as well as an order of perpetual injunction restraining the monarch from maligning the reputation of the Claimant, a renowned philanthropist and statesman, who had worked earnestly to earn the national award of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), the Asiwaju of Ijebuland, a high profile leader in Ososa, and have contributed immensely to the development of the community, and the nation in general.

The libelous suit with number 4CJ/205/19 and dated November 25, 2019, was filed by the Claimant over what he considered as a defamatory petition letter that Oba Alatishe reportedly wrote against him to former Governor Ibikunle Amosun on January 7, 2019.

The monarch was equally alleged to have sent copies of this petition to the then Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Commissioner for Urban and Physical Planning, the Commissioner for Police as well as the Special Adviser to Gov. Amosun on Urban and Physical Planning, among others.
Oba Alatishe had in this letter alleged that “Alhaji Adegunwa at a gathering had promised to demolish the entire resuscitated and reconstructed Gbengande Market and turn same to a palace, while the present palace will be forcefully turned to a townhall through the office of the Special Adviser on Urban and Physical Planning”.

The monarch warned that “If this threat is not urgently checked and nipped in the bud, it is capable of leading to a monumental breach of peace, serious confrontation and total breakdown of law and order in the community”.

Considering the alleged falsehood of the petition, the Claimant resorted, first, to peaceful resolution, through his legal counsel to request an apology and a retraction of same in three national newspapers but the traditional ruler reneged.

He however sought legal redress given the damage the libelous publication had caused, because City People has national readership, and the dent on his image as a notable industrialist and philanthropist of global repute.

He had prayed the court for a declaration that the words employed by the defendant, the monarch, in his letter of 7th January 2019 and publication in the City People Magazine,  and the Obanta Newsday constitute libel.

Other reliefs sought included N5 billion damages, an order of perpetual injunction restraining the monarch from perpetrating or carrying out any disparaging/libelous publication against him, and a retraction of the libelous publication in three national newspapers, the Punch, ThisDay, and the Nation newspapers.

Also in her judgement, Justice Osinuga affirmed that Oba Alatishe relied on hearsay to arrive at the content of the libelous publication. “When the Kabiyesi was asked how he came about the information as contained in the letter, he said some people told him yet Kabiyesi was not ready to disclose these people,” she stated.

The judge also held that it was wrong and so unwise for the royal father to have refused to tender an apology knowing fully well that he has no evidence to substantiate his allegations against the industrialist. Osinuga held that a defamatory case had been strongly established against the monarch and therefore ruled in favour of the Claimant.

DG NIGERIA-CHINA STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP HOSTS CHINESE TOP BUSINESS LEADERS, INVESTORS

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In line with the comprehensive strategic partnership between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the People’s Republic of China, the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) has hosted a 35-man delegation of Chinese business leaders interested in investing and establishing partnerships in Nigeria.

The delegation, whose visit was facilitated by Pan-African Expansion Industrial Nigeria Ltd, comprised companies with interests in Science and Technology, Mining, Construction, Real estate, Healthcare, Tourism, and E-commerce. They were received by the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP), Mr. Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe. Mr. Jason Zhu, the delegation lead, highlighted areas of desired investment in Nigeria, leveraging China’s industrial and technological advancements.

While welcoming the delegation, the Director-General of the Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership (NCSP) noted that Nigeria offers a dynamic and increasingly attractive business environment, marked by significant growth and abundant opportunities for investment.

Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe

As the largest economy in Africa, Nigeria significantly contribute to the continent’s GDP, boasting a vibrant and resilient market and a business climate that benefits from a large and youthful population, a strategic geographic location, and a government dedicated to implementing reforms that enhance economic stability and investor confidence. He highlighted policies and programmes that investors can key into, including investment in Free Trade Zone to boost exports from Nigeria.

Responding to questions, the DG emphasized that Nigeria is positioned to serve as the gateway to business across the African continent. However, he urged the investors to prioritize local production, stating that Nigeria seeks to move beyond merely exporting raw commodities.

Instead, the focus is on upgrading exports to value-added products. He encouraged the delegation to bring advanced technology and manufacturing capabilities to support this goal, which aligns with the nation’s industrialization aspirations.

Nigeria’s thriving technology sector stands as a beacon of opportunity. The country has produced several tech unicorns, such as Andela and Flutterwave, and continues to attract global investments. With China leading the way in technological innovation, deeper collaboration in this sphere offers immense potential. Strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and China would yield mutual benefits, including increased trade and investment, job creation, enhanced infrastructure and knowledge transfer.

The Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) represented by Mrs Victoria Aigbedion outlined the entry protocols for the investors to register their businesses, and the incentives they can take advantage of. She noted that the NIPC is committed to making the process timely and hitch-free.

Nigeria-China Strategic Partnership was established to drive Nigeria’s socio-economic transformation through targeted Chinese investments, aligning with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Blacktalker can report that the event marked another significant step in deepening the Nigeria-China business relationships and is expected to foster a mutually beneficial cooperation between the two nations.

LAWMA, ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICERS COLLABORATE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH SAFETY, ENVIRONMENT

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LAWMA EHOAN

The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA and the Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, EHOAN Lagos State Chapter, have agreed to integrate a joint task force, to actualize their shared vision of a cleaner and more vibrant Lagos environment.

Blacktalker confirms that it was the outcome of their courtesy visit at LAWMA headquarters, Ijora Olopa.

In his opening remarks, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, commended EHOAN, for their effort in ensuring a cleaner environment, especially within local communities, adding that the visit would foster a more robust collaboration between the two environmental stakeholders.

He said: ”lt is worthy to note that  environmental health officers are the bedrock of what we do in LAWMA. We both have a direct impact on the public health. Over the past few months, the Authority has taken proactive steps to decommission landfills, where we will now have transfer loading stations and waste will be moved to Epe and Ikorodu landfills. There are also plans to have material recovery facilities in all the local governments. A lot is also going on in the waste to energy sector and we have already done collaborations on that’’.

The LAWMA boss said further that the Authority has beefed up enforcements in markets across the state, noting that 13 markets were recently shut over environmental infractions.
President of the state chapter of EHOAN, Dr. Cyril Akinyele Babasope, noted that the visit was meant to chart a new path toward a more efficient, responsive, and sustainable waste management, anchored on vigilance, environmental stewardship, and robust community engagement.

He said “We are here today, to reaffirm our collective commitment to building a healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable Lagos. As environmental health officers, we are not only protectors of public health but also the bridge between statutory regulations and the communities we serve. As partners, we can form joint task forces to identify problem areas and implement lasting solutions. We understand that a well-managed waste system cannot be built by one entity alone. There is also the need for capacity building, to generate specific data to track performance and enable our officers to detect, analyze, and respond, to emerging environmental risks with efficiency and precision,’’ he stressed.

Voicing concern about indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians and public places, stretching the agency’s operations, Babasope called for the allocation of additional environmental health officers, for effective surveillance to arrest environmental defaulters.

Also speaking, the National President of the Association, Dr. Samuel Akinbodunrin Akingbeyin, noted that the body was committed to executing its environmental sustainability mandate , urging the LAWMA boss to intensify efforts in the provision of reliable data, for environmental health officers, to achieve a desired result.

“LAWMA is greatly commended; managing waste of over 25 million people and still counting is not a Child’s play. However, a lot can still be done. We environmental health officers are trained research officers, having data to work with makes the job easier and efficient. Therefore, we need you to do more on data gathering , it would help a great deal’’, he noted.

Gbadegesin noted that the Authority already had a Waste Management Research and Policy Development Department, but however promised to absorb and train more health officers for effective performance, noting that “it is high time we bring back the consciousness of  wole woles as it was done in the past. I believe we are at it already, with this synergy, we will achieve the desired result of a  cleaner and  sustainable  environment’’.

In attendance were LAWMA Executive Director of Finance, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, Key officials of EHOAN and LAWMA management staff.

2025 Lagos Energy Summit: LASG Unveils Ambitious Roadmap for Universal Energy Access

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2025 LAGOS ENERGY SUMMIT

Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its leadership in Nigeria’s energy transition journey as stakeholders gathered for the Lagos Energy Summit 2025, with the theme; “Journey to Energy for All”.

Blacktalker reports that the summit which is scheduled to hold from April 15 to 17, opened with a candid reflection on the state’s troubled energy past and an urgent call to action.

Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources in Lagos, Mr. Biodun Ogunleye in a data-rich address, outlined the state’s ambitious blueprint to achieve reliable, affordable and clean electricity for every resident of Lagos.

“For decades, Lagos has endured a culture of blackouts,” the Commissioner said. “But Lagos is no longer at the mercy of what doesn’t work. We are building what does.”

Quoting data from a joint study with SEforALL, Mr. Ogunleye painted a stark picture of Lagos’ dependency on self-generated power with 4.5 million generators operating across homes and businesses in Lagos, consuming 16 billion litres of fuel annually, with an estimated costing of over ₦14 trillion at today’s rates.

Others are generator emissions which contribute 38 million tons of CO₂ yearly, more than triple the emissions of countries like Togo or Rwanda and an estimated 30,000 lives are lost yearly in Lagos due to carbon monoxide pollution from generator fumes.

He emphasized that the state is done normalizing this burden. “The people have carried the weight of power failure for too long,” he said.

The Commissioner acknowledged former governors and energy commissioners for their early steps toward electricity liberalization, notably citing the introduction of the Enron barges by the then-Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the early 2000s.

He praised President Tinubu’s passage of the Electricity Act 2023, which empowered states to operate independent electricity markets, saying this legal breakthrough laid the foundation for the Lagos Electricity Law, signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in December 2024, which officially launched the Clean Lagos Electricity Market.

According to Ogunleye, under the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, energy is no longer seen as a stand-alone sector but as the engine of a 24-hour economy.

The Commissioner highlighted a series of policy instruments that now shape Lagos’ energy transition strategy, including an updated Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), the newly established Lagos Electricity Policy, a forward-looking Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP) and the greenlit Lagos Gas Master Plan

He said these initiatives prioritize: Energy diversification, including solar, gas, and hydro, Grid modernization and support for decentralized systems and Investment readiness through clear regulations and transparency.

Ogunleye hinted that expressions of interest are now open for gas-fired, solar and captive power projects aimed at injecting 6GW of electricity into Lagos within the next three years.

He noted that in addition, 22,000 streetlights are being retrofitted to improve energy efficiency and reduce strain on the grid.

“This is bigger than megawatts,” the Commissioner said, “we are building a Lagos that is the top destination for energy investment in Africa and a global case study in the subnational energy transition.”

The Commissioner also outlined how energy reforms will empower entrepreneurs, families and institutions, creating a future where children study under clean, reliable light, homes cook with clean gas, public buses run without diesel, hospitals remain fully powered and investors see Lagos as an energy-secure hub.

He noted that despite its progress, Lagos still faces hurdles such as high costs due to FX-linked gas pricing, vandalism of infrastructure and poor payment culture and unviable utility operations.

To address these, the Commissioner said Lagos is partnering with national bodies like the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) to solarize schools, hospitals, agricultural hubs, and underserved communities.

He further said the state is also working with NUPRC on a localized “Lagos Gas” strategy and pushing forward with its E-Mobility Master Plan to electrify public transport.

Additionally, he hinted that the government is expanding clean cooking adoption for low-income households, with support from Ibile Oil & Gas Corporation and other private-sector partners.

Ogunleye called on global and local partners saying: “Lagos is ready. Lagos is open for business. And Lagos is leading the journey to energy for all.”

Prof. Anetekhai Hails Tinubu’s Blue Economy Vision as Stakeholders Review Sea Fisheries Bill, Chart Course for Sustainability

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Emeritus Professor Martins Anetekhai

Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture at the Lagos State University, Martins Agenuma Anetekhai, has lauded President Bola Tinubu for his foresight in creating a dedicated ministry for marine and blue economy affairs.

In a goodwill message delivered at the opening ceremony of a two-day strategic workshop to review the Sea Fisheries Bill and the Fisheries Management Plan, Prof. Anetekhai described the move as a “bold step towards harnessing Nigeria’s aquatic resources for sustainable economic growth.”

He urged participants to approach the review process with a shared sense of purpose, emphasizing the importance of clear legislative definitions and innovative management practices. “As we deliberate,” he said, “let’s focus on crafting innovative management strategies, embracing circular economy principles, and clarifying key terms to ensure effective implementation.”

The Sea Fisheries Bill, currently under review, is expected to modernize Nigeria’s legislative framework for managing marine resources, ensuring environmental sustainability while unlocking economic potential.

Similarly, the Fisheries Management Plan is being assessed for alignment with global best practices and the evolving demands of Nigeria’s blue economy.

The workshop, which commenced on April 15, brought together policymakers, legal experts, environmental advocates, academia, and industry players to discuss the future of Nigeria’s marine resources under the newly established Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

The event which runs through April 16, is expected to provide a critical platform for dialogue on responsible fisheries governance, marine biodiversity protection, and sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities.

Blacktalker reports that with Nigeria’s marine sector playing a vital role in food security, employment, and trade, the outcomes of the workshop are anticipated to shape national policy and regulatory reforms in the months ahead.

Governor Soludo Mourns Death of Former Super Eagles Captain, Christian Chukwu

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Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra has mourned the passing of Mr. Christian Chukwu, a distinguished football icon and a true patriot, who passed away on Saturday, 12 April 2025.

Governor Soludo stated that Christian Chukwu’s name is etched in the annals of Nigerian football history, and his contributions to the development of the sport in the country are immeasurable, having led the national team to win the Nations Cup (AFCON) in the 1980 African Cup of Nations tournament.

In a release by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo noted that as a player, he was a colossus, a formidable defender and a leader of men, leading the legendary Enugu Rangers International Football Club and the national team, the Green Eagles now Super Eagles, with unrelenting dedication and exemplary skill.

Blactalker can report that the former Super Eagles Captain’s leadership on the field earned him the nickname “Chairman,” inspiring generations of footballers and igniting a passion for the beautiful game across the country.

According to Soludo, Chukwu’s tenure as coach of the Super Eagles further solidified his legacy, as he guided the team with his characteristic wisdom and tactical acumen. His commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a spirit of unity within the team left an indelible mark on the Nigerian football landscape

The governor further consoles the family of the football icon, the Nigerian football fraternity, and all who mourn his passing, praying that his soul rest in perfect peace.

New E-Commerce Platform ‘Foremade.com’ Launches in Nigeria, Offers Free Online Stores for Vendors

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New E-Commerce Platform ‘Foremade.com’ Launches in Nigeria, Offers Free Online Stores for Vendors

A new player has entered Nigeria’s growing e-commerce space as Foremade.com, a digital marketplace modeled after global giants like TEMU and Amazon, officially launched operations in the country.

Speaking at the launch, Foremade’s CEO, Mr. Dickson Kalu, highlighted the platform’s mission to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) beyond traditional social media selling methods.

“Foremade was created to help Nigerian SMEs build a strong digital sales presence beyond WhatsApp and Instagram,” Kalu stated. “We want them to reach not just Nigerian customers, but also expand into the EU market.”

According to him, the platform aims to empower Nigerian vendors by offering them free online stores on the Foremade platform, allowing them to sell products directly to a broad customer base both locally and internationally.

Kalu noted that vendor registration is now open, with a particular focus on businesses dealing in everyday items, fashion, jewelry, electronics, gadgets and more.

Blacktalker reports that interested vendors can onboard at no cost, gaining access to Foremade’s marketplace and customer base.

LGAs/LCDAs Are Foundation Of Development, ‘You Cannot Develop Nigeria Without LGA’ – Mayor Dele Oshinowo

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…….Bags Vanguard Grassroots Development Icon of the Year 


Political leaders from Kosofe Federal Constituency, House of Assembly members, the Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, All Progressives Congress (APC) Party leaders from Agboyi-Ketu, the Council management, friends, family, and relatives thronged the venue of the Vanguard Newspaper’s 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Yea Award to congratulate the Executive Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Mayor Dele Oshinowo who emerged as the winner of the Vanguard Grassroots Governance Icon of the Year Award, National Association of Online Security News Publishers, NAOSNP can report.

This award is in recognition of his exemplary grassroots political leadership style, demonstration of excellence in infrastructural development and provisions of good governance and dividend of democracy for the people of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, provision of qualitative education and healthcare facilities, empowerment of the youths, sporting facilities and skills acquisition, ensuring security of lives and properties and peaceful co-existence, among other initiatives.

The exceptional go-getter LCDA Chairman, Hon. Dele Oshinowo who is making giant strides and attaining results that some State Governors fail to achieve has transformed Agboyi-Ketu into a mega city, the erstwhile den of criminals around Mile12 has been transformed into highbrow Estates. He has also built Stadium, Schools, Healthcare centres, Bridge, and roads to provide infrastructural facelift across the LCDA, NAOSNP can report.

In the area of human development, the savvy administrator supported the educational progression of indigent students with purchase of forms, supported MSMEs with grants and soft loans, provided skills empowerment and business support for youths and women, while ensuring that peace, stability, and tolerance reigns in the local council. In the political space, Oshinowo is known for being a great grassroots mobilizer who matches grand electioneering promises with proven record of good governance and security.

Speaking on the Vanguard Icon of Grassroots Development feat with NAOSNP, Mayor Dele Oshinowo said: ‘I am happy and elated for this award. It is not for me alone, it represents what the LGAs and LCDAs in Lagos are doing. I am just a representative. This shows what our father, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has actually created a platform for us to grow and develop and think outside the box. You cannot develop Nigeria without the LGAs/LCDAs. It is the foundation of development.’

‘This is a recognition of what Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu did. I will say that the financial autonomy that some people are just talking about, we have been having it for over 20 years. The reason why Lagos is improving.’

On how he is making great progress in the local council, Oshinowo hinted: ‘I engage my people on social media, I engage by meeting with market men and women and other communities. Next Tuesday, I will be distributing N75 million to 1500 people. N50,000 is a lot for some of our petty traders. By boosting their stock with N50,000, it will greatly help. These people are trying with their small stock, they are saving, doing thrift, and sending their children to school. Last year alone, we did over N200 million.’

The local council boss also thanked the Vanguard Newspaper for creating an award category which recognizes giant strides in local council administration. ‘I want to commend Vanguard Newspaper for looking into the government to showcase what the 3rd tier is doing. I want to thank them for recognizing the 774 LGAs’, he said.

Other awardees of the 2024 Vanguard Personality of the Year Award are Mr. Deji Adeleke – Vanguard Personality of the Year; Chief Ayo Adebanjo – Posthumous Recognition; Chief Edwin Clark – Posthumous recognition; Sen. Douye Diri, Governor Of Bayelsa State; Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State; Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State; Gov. Abba Yusuf, Governor of Kano State; Prof Charles Soludo, Governor of Anambra state, among other award winners.

Dignitaries present at the event are the Chief Host: Uncle Sam Amuka, Chairman, Vanguard Newspaper, Chairman of the event: Mr. Atedo N.A Peterside, the Arole Oodua and Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, among others.

The Artists who serenaded the audience with their melody and rhythm are Johnny Drille and Laolu Gbenjo.