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WAEC Releases Results for 2025 First Series of CB-WASSCE for Private Candidates

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WAEC Assures Stakeholders of Seamless Conduct of 2026 WASSCE Despite Workers’ Protest

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC, Nigeria, has officially released the results for the 2025 First Series of the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination, CB-WASSCE for Private Candidates.

The examination, conducted between January 29 and February 15, 2025, saw 9,054 candidates sitting for the tests at 143 centres across the country. This marks a 12.86% increase in candidate participation compared to the 2024 entry figure.

A total of 512 examiners were involved in marking the scripts at two designated venues between February 25 and March 14, 2025.

Among the candidates, 25 individuals with special needs were accommodated, including six visually challenged candidates, one with impaired hearing, and six albinos.

Of the candidates who took the exam: 8,651 (95.55%) had their results fully processed and released, while 403 candidates (4.45%) are awaiting full processing due to errors.

3,388 candidates (37.42%) obtained credit and above in at least five subjects (with or without English and Mathematics), while 2,441 candidates (26.96%) obtained credit and above in at least five subjects, including English and Mathematics.

This performance reflects a 3.99% decrease compared to the 2024 First Series results, where 30.95% of candidates achieved similar success.

WAEC said it withheld 56 results (0.62%) over alleged examination malpractice. Affected candidates can appeal their cases via the WAEC Notice of Examination Malpractice Portal (https://waecinternational.org/complaints), where investigations will be conducted before final decisions are made.

”Candidates can check their results online at www.waecdirect.org and obtain their Digital Certificates from www.waec.org starting 48 hours from March 21, 2025. Hard copies can be requested via the WAEC Certificate Request Portal (https://certrequest.waec.ng/).”

WAEC also commended candidates, examiners, security agencies, ministries of education, and other stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring the smooth conduct of the examination.

The council reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining high standards and delivering quality examination services to the public.

Minister of Health Inaugurates Okpoko’s First-Ever General Hospital, Commends Governor Soludo

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In continuation of his infrastructural advancement of the healthcare sector in Anambra State, Governor Charles Soludo has constructed the first-ever general hospital in Okpoko, in Ogabru Local Government Area of the State.

At the inauguration of the hospital the Honourable Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, commended Soludo’s focus on what benefits the majority of the people.

The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Sir Emeka Offor, former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisah Metuh, and representatives from various government ministries, departments, and agencies.

While commissioning the hospital, Professor Pate eulogized Governor Soludo for his exceptional leadership in the state, particularly in the health sector, stating that he has transformed the healthcare landscape in Anambra, with the Okpoko General Hospital being a shining example.

According to a report by Mazi Ejimofor Opara, this development underscores Soludo’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services to the people of Anambra.

The hospital’s state-of-the-art facilities and equipment will undoubtedly improve healthcare services and access in the community.

Under Governor Soludo’s administration, Anambra State has witnessed significant strides in healthcare development, including the upgrade of primary healthcare centres and the construction of new general hospitals.

Also, Soludo was recently awarded the best-performing governor in primary healthcare delivery in the Southeast and Nigeria, overall. This was presented by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, the Federal Ministry of Health, and the United Nations Children and Education Fund (UNICEF).

Governor Soludo’s innovative leadership also earned Anambra State the fourth position in the recent evaluation of BudgIT’s State of States 2024 Report for overall fiscal performance and sustainability.

The BudgIT’s ranking reflects Anambra State’s exceptional performance in both fiscal and healthcare metrics. The feat came at a time when many States were struggling with fiscal sustainability and healthcare delivery challenges, and it attests to Soludo’s thriving model of fiscal responsibility, credible leadership, healthcare, and economic management prowess.

20 New Millionaires Emerge from Fidelity Bank GAIM 6 Promo

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L-R: Oyinkan Kusamotu, Principal Legal Officer, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority; Adetunji Mustafa, Divisional Head, Strategy, Innovation and Business Transformation, Fidelity Bank Plc; Aboluwade Margaret, South-West Zonal Coordinator, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council [FCCPC]; Osita Ede, Divisional Head, Product Development, Fidelity Bank Plc; Chetachi Okechukwu, Regional Bank Head, Ikoyi, Fidelity Bank; and Aigbadon Ehi, Surveillance and Investigation Officer, FCCPC; at the second and third Monthly draws of the Fidelity Bank, Get Alert In Millions Season 6 (GAIM 6) promo in Lagos recently.

Fidelity Bank Plc has announced 20 new millionaires at the 2nd and 3rd monthly draws of its Get Alert in Millions Season 6 (GAIM 6) promo held at the bank corporate head office in Lagos.

The 20 lucky winners, randomly selected through an electronic draw across Lagos, North, Abuja, South-West, South-South, and South-East zones, will be rewarded with the sum of one million naira each.

Speaking at the draws, the promo Chairperson and Executive Director for Lagos and South-West, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Ken Opara represented by the Regional Bank Head, Ikoyi, Chetachi Okechukwu, noted that the GAIM 6 promo was designed to reward customers’ loyalty, encourage a savings culture, and promote financial inclusion across the country.

According to Opara, “Fidelity Bank is dedicated to the financial well-being of our customers and this commitment inspired the launch of the GAIM Promo, designed to cultivate a strong culture of savings.

“Through this promo, customers have the chance to win substantial cash prizes up to N10 million by saving and transacting with their Fidelity Bank Savings accounts. In addition to the monetary rewards, winners will receive complimentary financial advisory services to secure and grow their wealth for the future.”

The monthly draws was monitored by the representatives of relevant regulatory bodies, including the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Council (FCCPC), Mrs. Aboluwade Margaret; and the Principal Legal Officer, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Oyinkan Kusamotu.

Since the campaign launched in November 2024, Fidelity Bank has disbursed 19.75 million Naira to 869 customers across different categories. The GAIM 6 campaign, which will run until August 2025, is set to reward lucky customers with a total of 159 million Naira.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 8.5 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the Export Finance Bank of the Year at the 2023 BusinessDay Awards; the Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023; and Best SME Bank Nigeria 2022 by the Global Banking and Finance Awards. It was also recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2023 and the Best Domestic Private Bank in Nigeria by the Euromoney Global Private Banking Awards 2023.

Zuriel Oduwole, Sterling One Foundation, Sanwo-Olu Harp on Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment

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L-R: Moyo Akinyosoye, Business Executive, Institutional Banking, Sterling Bank; Zuriel Oduwole, Youth Envoy/Nobel Peace Prize Nominee; Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State; Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation; and Ifeoluwa Elegbede, Communication Lead, Sterling One Foundation, during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office to discuss youth empowerment, gender equality, and the need for sustained action in creating opportunities for young leaders.

Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Zuriel Oduwole and Sterling One Foundation have emphasized the need for gender equality and youth empowerment.

This emphasis was made during the team’s visit to the Lagos State Governor’s Office, where discussions focused on sustained action in creating opportunities for young leaders.

At just 22 years old, Oduwole is the youngest Nigerian ever nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and the first to be recognized in this category. Her global advocacy in education, gender equality, and youth inclusion has influenced policies and engaged key decision-makers across multiple countries.

Sterling One Foundation, through its investment in social impact across critical sectors, has mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment across all its initiatives, ensuring that young women and girls have access to the resources, platforms, and opportunities needed to thrive.

Speaking on the Foundation’s commitment to gender equality and women empowerment, the CEO of Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe highlighted the importance of telling African stories and driving impact through intentional programming, while also reflecting on this year’s International Women’s Day theme, Accelerate Action.

“At Sterling One Foundation, we are intentional about telling African stories that reflect the strength and potential of our people. This is evident in our focus areas and programming, where we have deliberately mainstreamed gender equality and women’s empowerment.

This aligns with the call to ‘Accelerate Action’ this International Women’s Day, reinforcing the urgency of breaking barriers for women and girls.

We are proud of Zuriel Oduwole for amplifying these values on the global stage, and we remain committed to creating an environment where young changemakers, especially women and girls, have the support and opportunities they need to lead and succeed.”

During the visit, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recognized Oduwole’s contributions and her historic Nobel Peace Prize nomination, describing it as a milestone for Nigeria and the African continent.

“This achievement reflects the resilience and determination of our people. In the past five years, we have faced COVID-19, economic challenges, and instability, yet we have continued to create opportunities for young Nigerians in technology, finance, and entertainment.

The THEMES Plus agenda reinforces our commitment to inclusion and youth empowerment. Lagos is proud to support Zuriel’s journey and work with the Sterling One Foundation to expand opportunities for the next generation.”

Oduwole also emphasized the power of storytelling in driving social change:
“I have seen the power of storytelling in changing perceptions and opening doors for young people. When we share our stories, we inspire action. I am grateful to our partners for amplifying young voices and creating opportunities that make a real difference.”

Her remarks highlight the role of storytelling in influencing narratives that drive meaningful change. By amplifying diverse voices and ensuring that young people, especially women and girls, have platforms to be heard, storytelling becomes a powerful tool for influencing policies, shifting mindsets, and creating lasting impact in communities. The need for sustained efforts to support and invest in these platforms has never been more critical.

The Sterling One Foundation remains committed to driving sustainable change through strategic interventions that create lasting impact in gender equality, youth empowerment, and social development

About Sterling One Foundation

Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across five critical sectors namely: climate action, health, education and youth development, gender equality and empowerment, and food security.

The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For more information visit onefoundation.ng

Ogun State Police Command Deploys Intervention Squad to Secure Sagamu–Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway

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In a decisive move to enhance security and ensure the safety of commuters, the Ogun State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, has deployed a specialized Intervention Squad along the Sagamu–Ijebu Ode–Benin Expressway.

This strategic initiative is aimed at preventing criminal activities such as kidnapping and armed robbery along the vital corridor.

On March 19, 2025, CP Ogunlowo, PhD, personally inspected the security operations at the newly established intervention post strategically located before Odogbolu, between Celplas Industry, Mikano Generator, and Ladgroup Company.

The intervention post, a makeshift roof shed fortified with sandbags, serves as a rapid response center for distress calls from the Ijebu Ode, Sagamu, and Owode Egba Area Commands, as well as commuters requiring emergency assistance.

This enhanced security measure complements existing security installations along the expressway, including two OP MESA security points positioned inward and outward in Lagos on the Long Bridge, shed posts with Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) at the Sagamu Interchange and the recently established makeshift security posts along the Ijebu Ode–Sagamu Highway, ensuring a visible and active armed police presence.

This proactive initiative follows an extensive surveillance operation conducted on February 27, 2025, during which the Commissioner of Police identified and blocked known escape routes frequently used by criminals. As a result, barriers have been erected to restrict unauthorized movements along footpaths often exploited as getaway points, bolstering access control along the route.

Additionally, a Quick Intervention Squad has been permanently stationed in the area, with backup teams patrolling the expressway in an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) stationed at the Sagamu Intersection.

The Ogun State Police Command urged the public to report any suspicious activities via the Command’s emergency hotline at 08099401875 for prompt rescue operations and assistance.

OEQA Engages Education Stakeholders on 2025/2026 Academic Calendar Development

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… Targets 100% Compliance with Academic Calendar

The Office of Education Quality Assurance, OEQA under the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has engaged key stakeholders in the state’s education sector to develop an academic calendar for the 2025/2026 session that reflects the views and expectations of all major players.

During a preliminary stakeholders’ meeting held on Wednesday at the NUT Pavilion, Ikeja the Supervising Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko, mni, represented by the Director, Basic Education Services, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Bosede Adumasi addressed major education stakeholders.

He emphasized the state government’s commitment to an effective and structured academic calendar and also reassured stakeholders that the final academic calendar would be designed to support academic excellence, student well-being, and holistic learner development across Lagos State.

He reiterated the government’s dedication to an inclusive decision-making process, stating that feedback from stakeholders would shape a sustainable academic structure that enhances learning outcomes.

In his welcome address, the Coordinating Director of OEQA, Mr. Remi Abdul, stressed the importance of collaboration in designing an academic calendar that ensures efficiency and stability in Lagos State schools.

He acknowledged the commitment of education stakeholders and clarified that the meeting was meant to gather insights, analyze perspectives, and develop strategic options—not to finalize the academic calendar.

“At the final stakeholders’ meeting, we will ensure that the chosen academic calendar best serves students, educators, and the entire education community in Lagos State,” Abdul assured.

He also issued a strong warning that schools failing to comply with the final academic calendar would face serious consequences and sanctions from the state government.

On his part, the Director, Planning of Planning, Research, and Statistics Department at OEQA, Mr. Idowu Hakeem Kehinde, acknowledged an improvement in compliance with the 2024/2025 Academic Calendar but emphasized that OEQA expects full compliance with the 2025/2026 Academic Calendar currently under deliberation.

He urged various associations present to consider their members’ interests while ensuring alignment with the existing guidelines.

Also, the Director of Research, Mrs. Evelyn Pelemo whilst taking the participants through the plenary session recommended that stakeholders should organize themselves into groups consisting of 10 participants per table each led by a Team Lead and a secretary for properly structured deliberations.

Earlier, Assistant Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics at OEQA, Mr. David Ojelade provided a review of last year’s calendar development process and outlined the 2025/2026 academic guidelines for participants.

He highlighted key factors guiding the preparation of the new calendar, including Statutory public holidays, National examination schedules, Alignment with federal and state policies and Challenges identified by stakeholders in previous academic calendars.

Additionally, he noted that: the minimum number of learning days remains 180, the mid-term break remains one week, School resumption after the New Year break will be in the second week of January.

Various education stakeholders at the meeting commended the initiative, expressing optimism that the 2025/2026 academic calendar would address past challenges and provide a seamless educational experience for students, teachers, and parents.

Attendees included representatives from: Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS), Association of Primary School Head Teachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON), Public and private school representatives, Parent-teacher associations, Examination bodies and Education administrators.

Children Companion Private School Hosts 7th Biennial Inter-House Sports Competition

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The Children Companion Private School has held its 7th Biennial Inter-House Sports Competition, an event that showcased the athletic prowess, teamwork and sportsmanship of its students.

The event was a resounding success, thanks to the dedication and support of various stakeholders, including the school management, teachers, parents, sponsors and students.

In her remarks, the Chairperson of the Parent-Teacher Association, Engr. Dr. Olufunmilade Akingbagbohun commended the school’s proprietor, management and staff for their tireless efforts in organizing and executing the competition.

“We thank you for your unwavering commitment to providing a holistic education for our children. Your dedication is truly appreciated,” she noted.

Acknowledging the crucial role played by teachers, coaches, and sports officials, Dr. Akingbagbohun lauded their efforts in preparing the students for the competition. She emphasized that their guidance and encouragement helped bring out the best in the young athletes.

She also extended gratitude to sponsors and partners, including former PTA Chairmen, Mr. Abiodun Abijo and Pastor Obaze, as well as former PTA Vice Chairman, Prince Ejiofor, for their generous contributions to the success of the event. According to the current PTA Chairperson, their investment in the students’ education and development can not over over-emphasized.

The event, chaired by Dr. Sammy Olaniyi, also recognized parents and guardians for their continued support and presence at the various school functions, something which was described as a great source of motivation for the students.

Key highlights of the sports competition were the spirited performance of the students, who displayed remarkable enthusiasm and competitive spirit. At the end of the contests, Yellow House, hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Kadiri Williams, emerged victorious, securing the 1st position.

Red House, hosted by Mr. & Mrs. Oyede, claimed 2nd place, while Blue House, hosted by Wuraola Sapphire, finished in 3rd position. Green House, hosted by Olayinka, took the 4th position.

Additionally, Blue House won the coveted March Past Cup, adding another accolade to their achievements.

Covenant University Appoints Engr. Atinuke Owolabi to Engineering College Board

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…..Moves to Strengthen Industry Ties, Bridge Gap with Academia

Covenant University has reinforced its commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry by appointing Engr. (Dr.) Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi as an Industry Board Member of its College of Engineering for the 2024/2025 academic session.

The appointment, effective from January 30, 2025, will span an initial two-year period, subject to renewal based on performance and contributions.

The university’s Registrar, Mr. Emmanuel K. Igban, officially announced the appointment, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to integrating real-world industry expertise into its academic framework.

Engr. (Dr.) Owolabi, Managing Director of Leadtech Engineering Solutions Ltd., will join other esteemed professionals in advising and shaping the university’s engineering programs to align with evolving industry standards.

Her role will include providing strategic input to enhance curriculum development, advocating for industry placement opportunities, and fostering collaborations with key stakeholders in the private and public sectors.

As the Chairman of the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN) Lagos Chapter, Engr. (Dr.) Owolabi brings a wealth of experience in engineering, leadership, and mentorship.

Her appointment signals Covenant University’s proactive approach to strengthening industry-academic partnerships and ensuring that its graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the engineering profession.

Board members will leverage their expertise and professional networks to connect Covenant University with prominent organizations, including the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), and the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).

This engagement aims to provide students with hands-on industry exposure and opportunities to engage with top engineering firms.

About Engr. (Dr.) Atinuke Owolabi

Engr. (Dr.) Owolabi’s impressive background spans multiple sectors, including power systems, mechanical and electrical engineering, civil and structural engineering, and project management. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Ilorin and a Master’s in Engineering and Management from Coventry University, UK, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to technological advancement and professional development.

Her honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree in Electrical Engineering and Technological Development from the European American University further cements her reputation as a leader in the field.

Her extensive career includes roles at leading engineering firms such as Shoreline Power, ABB Electrical Systems, and Schneider Electric before establishing her own companies. Through Wurvicat International Limited and Leadtech Engineering Solutions Ltd., she has spearheaded innovative engineering solutions across multiple industries, emphasizing quality, efficiency, and research-driven practices.

Beyond her technical expertise, Engr. (Dr.) Owolabi is a passionate advocate for capacity building and community development. She has founded initiatives dedicated to youth empowerment, professional training, and humanitarian efforts, reinforcing her belief in engineering as a tool for national development.

Okpoko Agog As Governor Soludo Inaugurates Road, Hospital Projects.

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Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has inaugurated the 1.345km of Union Street-Ojoto Street-Adazi Ani-Owerri Road and 2.9km of Mgbuka-Amazu-Emekekwe Road in Ogbaru Local Government Area.

The inauguration was done on Tuesday, 18th March 2025, and given that, Governor Soludo’s administration has completed 15.623 km of road so far, with another 3.467km of Okpoko internal roads still under construction.

According to a report by his Senior Special Assistant on New Media, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, with the completion of the remaining roads under construction, Okpoko shall have a total of 19.9km of tarred roads traversing the once impassable, neglected, forgotten, and abandoned urban slum.

“Soludo is not just constructing roads to connect people who were left behind, he is giving them water, electricity, quality healthcare, free quality education, and even more. Soludo has lifted the downtrodden in Okpoko and brought light to the place once overwhelmed by darkness”

In continuation of his infrastructural advancement of the healthcare sector, Soludo recently built the first-ever general hospital in Okpoko and was inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Health, Professor Ali Pate, in a ground-breaking ceremony.

While inaugurating the hospital, Professor Pate eulogized Governor Soludo for his exceptional leadership in the state, particularly in the health sector, stating that his efforts have transformed the healthcare landscape in Anambra, with the Okpoko General Hospital being a shining example.

CIOTA Inaugurates New State Executives, Coordinators to Strengthen Transport Administration in Nigeria

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As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen professional transport administration at the state level, the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria, CIOTA has inaugurated newly appointed State Executives and Coordinators across the country.

Delivering the keynote address during a virtual event, the chairman of the Membership and Planning Committee, Professor Samuel Odewumi emphasized the critical role of transport in Nigeria’s economic and social development.

Professor Odewumi highlighted how the establishment of state chapters would enhance professionalism, policy advocacy, research, stakeholder engagement and membership expansion within the transport sector.

“The inauguration of our state chapters is a bold and strategic move to decentralize our operations, foster inclusivity, and promote regional development within the transport sector,” he said. “This initiative will provide a platform for knowledge-sharing, capacity building, and policy advocacy to improve Nigeria’s transport systems.”

The chairman also presented the newly inaugurated state chapter executives with an ambitious three-year action plan (2024-2026) aimed at ensuring sustainable growth and efficiency in transport administration.

According to Professor Odewunmi, the plan includes: Year 1 (2024): Establishing governance structures, membership drives, inaugural training workshops, and advocacy initiatives.

Year 2 (2025): Implementing structured training programs, launching research projects, organizing state transport summits, and enhancing public awareness campaigns on sustainable transport practices.

Year 3 (2026): Expanding collaborations with research institutions, advocating for policy implementation, establishing funding mechanisms, and hosting a national CIOTA state chapters’ conference.

He noted that the inauguration reinforced CIOTA’s dedication to sustainable transport policies and professional excellence and with the establishment of state chapters, the Institute is poised to address state-specific transport challenges and foster innovations that will contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth and infrastructural development.

As CIOTA moves forward, stakeholders, government agencies, and private sector players are expected to collaborate closely with the institute to ensure the successful implementation of its strategic objectives.

“Together, we can build a robust and sustainable transport sector that catalyzes national development,” Professor Samuel concluded.

On his part, CIOTA President, Segun Obayendo, who administered the oath of office on the newly appointed state executives and zonal coordinators, emphasizing the institute’s core values of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to advancing transport administration in Nigeria.

Obayendo commended the new leaders for their dedication and urged them to work diligently to strengthen the institute’s visibility and effectiveness at the state level. He also encouraged further expansion through the creation of local government chapters to enhance grassroots participation in transport administration.

The event also featured the outlining of the supervisory states for various transport institutions, ensuring coordinated efforts in enhancing transport administration across key sectors.

Institutions such as the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Lagos State University School of Transport and Logistics and the Nigerian Railway Corporation were assigned supervisory states for improved collaboration.