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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports circulating online alleging the imposition of a curfew or restriction of movement across the state, describing the claims as false and misleading.

The Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Bode Ojajuni, assured residents that the security situation across Ogun State remains peaceful and under control.

According to the police, adequate deployment of personnel and operational assets has been strategically positioned across the state to maintain law and order as well as protect lives and property.

The Command urged residents to disregard unverified reports capable of causing unnecessary panic and continue with their lawful activities without fear.

It also encouraged members of the public to remain security conscious and promptly report suspicious movements or security concerns through its emergency communication channels.

The police listed the Gateway Shield emergency platform toll-free complaints line as 0800 000 9111, while other emergency contact numbers include 0906 283 7609, 0912 014 1706, 0915 102 7369, and 0708 497 2994.

The Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining public safety and maintaining peace across Ogun State.

NIMC Pushes Digital Public Infrastructure to Improve Service Delivery, National Security

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blacktalker
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NIMC Pushes Digital Public Infrastructure to Improve Service Delivery, National Security

The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC has reaffirmed its commitment to building a robust and inclusive Digital Public Infrastructure, DPI ecosystem aimed at strengthening governance, improving service delivery, enhancing national security, and accelerating socio-economic development across Nigeria.

Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of NIMC, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, made this known at a digital conference themed “Building Africa’s Digital Foundations Together” held in Abuja.

Represented by the Head of Infrastructure Technology and Identity Databases at NIMC, Sulaiman Falade, the NIMC boss said the Commission is driving Nigeria’s digital public infrastructure through strategic reforms, institutional collaboration, and the deployment of secure digital identity systems to support efficient service delivery for citizens and residents.

According to her, the National Identification Number has become a critical tool for digital authentication, identity verification, and access to both government and private sector services.

She explained that in line with the Presidential Directive issued on April 5, 2024, Ministries, Departments and Agencies have been mandated to integrate the use of the NIN into policies relating to data capture, identity verification, and biometric authentication across digital platforms.

“In line with the Presidential Directive issued on April 5, 2024, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been mandated to ensure the effective use of the NIN in driving policies related to data capture, identity verification, and biometric authentication across all digital services. NIMC has put in place structures to ensure effective implementation,” she stated.

Coker-Odusote further stressed the Federal Government’s commitment to building a unified, secure, and interoperable digital identity ecosystem capable of promoting transparency, accountability, and seamless access to services nationwide.

She noted that as part of Nigeria’s broader digital public infrastructure framework, NIMC continues to play a leading role in enabling digital governance and supporting national development goals.

The NIMC chief also highlighted the deployment of the National Public Key Infrastructure as part of efforts to strengthen trust in digital transactions, protect citizens’ data, and promote secure online interactions.

She urged stakeholders in both the public and private sectors to continue supporting the implementation of Nigeria’s digital identity ecosystem and related initiatives aimed at improving service delivery outcomes for Nigerians.

According to her, the Commission remains committed to leveraging technology, innovation, and secure digital systems to build a more connected, efficient, and resilient nation.

Nigeria Customs Calls for Stronger Inter-Agency Collaboration Against Transnational Crimes

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blacktalker
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The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has stressed the need for stronger collaboration, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency coordination in tackling terrorism financing, money laundering, wildlife trafficking, and other forms of transnational organised crimes.

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has stressed the need for stronger collaboration, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency coordination in tackling terrorism financing, money laundering, wildlife trafficking, and other forms of transnational organised crimes.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stated this on May 21, 2026, during a study tour by participants of the Operational Level Countering the Financing of Terrorism and Regional Security Course 2 organised by the National Defence College at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

Adeniyi commended ongoing capacity development initiatives within the Service and praised the participation of officers drawn from various formations across the country.

He described Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force grey list as a major achievement that has strengthened investor confidence and improved the country’s international financial reputation.

According to him, Nigerian-issued bank cards previously faced restrictions abroad before the country exited the grey list, affecting international transactions and the nation’s image globally.

The Customs boss noted that the role of the Service has evolved beyond revenue generation and border control, adding that offences such as undervaluation, overvaluation, wildlife trafficking, and the illicit movement of African resources now constitute serious financial crimes.

He further disclosed that the NCS is collaborating with the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, the Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit, and airline operators to deploy automated currency declaration systems.

“For us to get ahead of these criminals, we must continue to work together and subject our individual mandates to broader national security objectives,” Adeniyi said.

Earlier, the Team Lead and Course Director Coordinator of the Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency/Countering the Financing of Terrorism Unit at the National Defence College, Adam Abdullahi, said terrorism financing remains the backbone of terrorist activities globally.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration among agencies including the Department of State Services, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Armed Forces, Customs, and other relevant institutions to ensure effective coordination against security threats.

“The lifeline of terrorism is financing, and tackling it cannot be done by one institution alone,” he stated.

Also speaking during the programme, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Mas’ud Salihu, who heads the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Unit of the Service, highlighted how criminal networks exploit global supply chains and international connectivity to move illicit funds and goods across borders.

He stressed the role of Customs in enforcing currency declaration regulations and intercepting prohibited items, including arms and narcotics, while calling for stronger local and international cooperation in combating organised crime.

LASWA Intensifies Safety Inspections Across Ferry Terminals, Seizes 120 Damaged Life Jackets

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blacktalker
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LASWA Intensifies Safety Inspections Across Lagos Ferry Terminals, Seizes 120 Damaged Life Jackets

The Lagos State Waterways Authority,LASWA has intensified safety inspections across major ferry terminals and jetties in Lagos State as part of efforts to enforce strict compliance with waterways safety regulations and improve operational standards within the sector.

The inspection exercise covered several terminals and jetties, including Ipakodo Ferry Terminal, Bayeku, Ijede, Ebute-Ero Jetty, Liverpool, Sabokoji, Alex, and Coconut terminals.

According to the Authority, the exercise focused primarily on assessing vessel seaworthiness and ensuring compliance with life jacket safety requirements across waterways operations.

During the inspections, LASWA officials seized and removed 120 damaged life jackets from circulation, describing the move as necessary to eliminate hazardous safety equipment and strengthen passenger protection on Lagos waterways.

The Authority noted that while many operators complied with required safety standards, some vessels were found to require repairs and improvements to attain full seaworthiness.

LASWA stated that the exercise reaffirmed its position that strict compliance with safety protocols, particularly regarding vessel conditions and the quality of life jackets provided for passengers, remains non-negotiable.

The agency further declared that enforcement operations would continue across ferry terminals and jetties in the state to ensure operators comply fully with existing waterways safety regulations.

Operators, according to LASWA, are legally required to maintain seaworthy boats and provide certified, functional life jackets for all passengers using water transportation services.

The Authority reiterated its commitment to building a safer, more reliable, and better-regulated waterways transportation system across Lagos State.

Residents and waterway users seeking further information were advised to contact LASWA through its official communication channels, including talktolaswa.

LSSTF Concludes 3rd Inter-Agency Security Training, Rewards Outstanding Officers

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blacktalker
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LSSTF Concludes 3rd Inter-Agency Security Training, Rewards Outstanding Officers

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund,LSSTF has concluded the May 2026 edition of its Statewide Inter-Agency Training Programme for Security Operatives with the presentation of certificates to participants and cash rewards for officers recognised for punctuality and commitment during the exercise.

The two-day intensive programme, which ended on Thursday, May 21, 2026, brought together operatives from various law enforcement, emergency management, paramilitary, and safety agencies serving across Lagos State.

The training formed part of the Fund’s broader institutional capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening professionalism, ethical standards, emotional intelligence, public diplomacy, wellness consciousness, financial management, and inter-agency collaboration among security agencies.

Representing the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of LSSTF, Ayodele Ogunsan, the Director of Administration, Adegbola Lewis, said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to sustained capacity development rather than isolated interventions.

According to him, modern security realities require stronger collaboration among agencies through intelligence sharing, coordinated responses, and mutual institutional understanding in order to maintain public trust and ensure safer communities.

A major highlight of the training was a five-module lecture delivered by Wale Adeagbo, Director of Security Risk Advisory, Consulting and Education at Halogen Group.

The lecture, titled “Enhancing Professional Capacity, Ethical Standards and Inter-Agency Collaboration for Effective Security Operation,” focused on ethical professionalism, operational leadership, performance management, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration among security agencies.

Speaking during the session, Adeagbo stressed the need for security institutions to continuously improve professional standards and operational coordination in response to evolving security threats confronting urban centres like Lagos.

According to him, effective security operations can no longer depend solely on force projection or isolated institutional actions, but must increasingly be driven by professionalism, accountability, emotional intelligence, communication, strategic partnerships, and public trust.

He also addressed concerns around the relationship between security agencies and citizens, urging personnel to adopt a people-focused approach to security operations.

“The first step is to have a clear citizens-focused vision that you can communicate with your community,” he said, while emphasising empathy, emotional connection, feedback systems, and performance measurement as critical tools for improving public confidence in security institutions.

At the closing session, participants who completed the training successfully were presented with certificates in recognition of their participation and commitment to professional development.

In addition, 10 officers who consistently arrived early throughout the two-day programme were rewarded with cash gifts of N50,000 each as part of efforts to encourage discipline, punctuality, and professionalism among security personnel.

The gesture drew commendation from participants and reinforced the LSSTF’s emphasis on institutional discipline, dedication, and positive work culture as essential components of effective security operations in Lagos State.

Lagos Sponsors Over 200 Creative, Tourism Events in One Year

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blacktalker
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Lagos Government Sponsors Over 200 Creative, Tourism Events in One Year

The Lagos State Government says it invested several billions of naira in sponsorships and support for the creative industry within the last one year as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s entertainment, tourism, and cultural ecosystem.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, made this known during the ongoing annual Ministerial Press Briefing marking the seventh year in office of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

According to the Commissioner, the Ministry supported 201 events, festivals, and creative programmes between May 2025 and May 2026, representing a significant increase from the 143 initiatives supported during the previous year.

She said the development reflects the deliberate commitment of the Sanwo-Olu administration to expanding Lagos’ creative economy and positioning the state as Africa’s leading hub for arts, culture, entertainment, and tourism.

“Between May 2025 till date, the Ministry, through its Creative Arts Department, significantly expanded its support for the creative and cultural sector by sponsoring over Two Hundred and One events, festivals, and programmes,” Benson-Awoyinka stated.

The Commissioner further disclosed that the Ministry issued endorsement letters to more than 159 creative stakeholders to assist them in securing sponsorships and partnerships for their projects and initiatives.

Among the major events and initiatives supported by the state government during the period under review were Lagos Fashion Week, Felabration, Lagos Cocktail Week, Homecoming Festival, All Africa Music Awards, Lagos Fanti Carnival and the Eyo Festival.

She noted that the government’s investments in the creative and tourism sectors have contributed to job creation, youth empowerment, tourism growth, and increased international visibility for Lagos State.

Benson-Awoyinka added that Lagos continues to maintain its position as the creative capital of Africa with growing opportunities across music, film, fashion, arts, culture, and tourism industries.

Nigerian Saxophonist G-Effect Targets Guinness World Record for Longest Saxophone Marathon

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blacktalker
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Nigerian Saxophonist G-Effect Targets Guinness World Record for Longest Saxophone Marathon

Nigerian saxophonist and music minister, Adekeye Gbemileke Samuel, popularly known as G-Effect, has announced plans to attempt the Guinness World Record for the Longest Marathon Playing the Saxophone in a bid to inspire young talents and place Nigerian instrumental music on the global stage.

Speaking about the challenge, G-Effect described the attempt as more than just a quest to break a world record, saying it represents courage, resilience, purpose, and hope for aspiring creatives across Africa.

According to him, the initiative is designed to encourage people never to give up on their dreams regardless of their personal struggles or limitations.

“This is beyond setting a record; it is about inspiring people never to give up on their dreams regardless of their background, struggles, or limitations,” he said.

The saxophonist explained that music has remained a major part of his life and personal healing journey despite difficult experiences and personal challenges encountered over the years.

He added that the record attempt is also aimed at promoting Nigerian creativity, African talent, and live instrumental music internationally.

G-Effect noted that many gifted young musicians often struggle with limited visibility and support, expressing hope that the challenge would encourage and motivate upcoming talents around the world.

Speaking on preparations for the challenge, G-Effect disclosed that he and his team have commenced intensive physical, mental, spiritual, and musical training ahead of the attempt scheduled for 27th / 28th May, 2026.

He explained that the marathon requires exceptional stamina, breathing control, concentration, and proper health management, adding that arrangements are already being made for rehearsals, medical support, hydration plans, technical logistics, and compliance with Guinness World Records guidelines.

“My goal is not just to break a record but to create a moment that will inspire millions of people across the world,” he said. “I want people to see that impossible things can become possible when passion meets preparation.”

The musician also expressed optimism that the attempt would create more opportunities for instrumental

The current Guinness World Record for the Longest Marathon Playing the Saxophone is held by Elvis Nunes Sousa of Portugal, who achieved the feat by playing continuously for 33 hours in September 2025 in Funchal, Madeira.

Before Sousa’s achievement, the record was held by Mysore Sainatha Subbalaxmi of India, who completed a 26-hour and 23-minute saxophone marathon in 2023.

AIG Jimoh Hosts Chinese Security Delegation in Lagos, Strengthens International Policing Partnership

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blacktalker
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AIG Jimoh Hosts Chinese Security Delegation in Lagos, Strengthens International Policing Partnership

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Police Command, Olohundare Jimoh, has hosted a delegation from the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department of the People’s Republic of China on an official working visit to the Zone 2 Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos.

The Chinese delegation, led by Zhang Yuebo, Deputy Director in charge of Daily Operations at the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department, was received alongside senior officers and members of the Zone 2 management team.

The visit formed part of ongoing efforts aimed at strengthening international police collaboration, deepening bilateral relations, and enhancing strategic cooperation in areas including security management, intelligence sharing, and capacity building.

Speaking during the engagement, Zhang Yuebo expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded his team and reaffirmed the commitment of the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department to strengthening professional exchanges with the Nigeria Police Force.

He stressed the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational crimes, improving intelligence sharing, and advancing capacity development initiatives among law enforcement agencies.

In his remarks, AIG Jimoh described the visit as another significant step in strengthening the longstanding relationship between Zone 2 Headquarters and the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department, noting that the partnership has existed since 2019.

According to him, the collaboration has continued to support efforts in tackling transnational crimes, cybercrime, terrorism, and other emerging security threats.

The AIG also conveyed the goodwill message of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to the visiting delegation.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to modern policing strategies anchored on professionalism, intelligence-led policing, technological innovation, respect for human rights, community partnership, and international collaboration.

Jimoh further commended the Shandong Provincial Public Security Department for its support towards the training and development of officers attached to Zone 2 Command, comprising Lagos and Ogun State Police Commands.

According to him, the training programmes have contributed significantly to improving the operational efficiency and professionalism of officers in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The visit also featured strategic discussions on contemporary policing methods, global best practices, and future areas of cooperation between both security institutions.

The Zone 2 Police Command reiterated its commitment to sustaining productive partnerships with local and international stakeholders in the collective effort to ensure peace, safety, and security across Lagos and Ogun States.

Ogun Police Clarify Viral Video of Suspected Kidnappers’ Arrest in Ijebu-Igbo

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blacktalker
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Police Clarify Viral Video of Suspected Kidnappers’ Arrest in Ijebu-Igbo

The Ogun State Police Command has clarified that the video currently circulating online showing the arrest of suspected kidnappers in Ijebu-Igbo is an old footage from 2024 and not a recent incident.

In a statement issued to address growing public concern, the Command urged residents and social media users to disregard misleading claims suggesting the video reflects a fresh security development in the area.

According to the police, the footage originated from an operation carried out in 2024 and has now resurfaced online with false narratives capable of causing unnecessary panic among members of the public.

The Command advised residents to verify information through credible and official channels before sharing such content on social media platforms.

Police authorities further warned against the spread of misinformation and recycled security-related videos, noting that such actions could undermine public confidence and create fear within communities.

The Command reassured residents of its continued commitment to maintaining security and ensuring the safety of lives and property across Ogun State.

NCS, Nigeria’s China Envoy Move to Deepen Trade Ties, Tackle Illicit Economic Activities

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blacktalker
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NCS, Nigeria’s China Envoy Move to Deepen Trade Ties, Tackle Illicit Economic Activities

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening legitimate trade relations with China while intensifying efforts to combat illicit trade and other unlawful economic activities through stronger bilateral cooperation and enforcement mechanisms.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, stated this on Wednesday during a meeting with Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to China, Abdulrahman Dambazau, at the Customs Headquarters in Abuja.

Adeniyi described Dambazau as a seasoned leader whose military background and public service experience positioned him well for the diplomatic assignment, expressing confidence in his ability to strengthen Nigeria’s engagement with China.

The Customs boss noted that China remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner, adding that discussions during the meeting focused on improving strategic trade relations and enhancing legitimate business activities involving Chinese companies operating in Nigeria.

According to him, several Chinese firms are already participating in the Service’s Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, while companies complying with global trade standards and regulations continue to receive recognition from the Service.

Adeniyi further disclosed that the NCS maintains a Customs Mutual Administrative Agreement (CMAA) with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) to support trade facilitation and strengthen customs cooperation between both countries.

He stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in achieving effective trade operations, noting that Customs cannot function in isolation.

“Stronger engagement and continuous communication between the NCS and China will ensure more effective trade facilitation and mutual economic benefit,” he said.

The CGC also highlighted the need for trade statistics released by both countries to align more accurately in order to eliminate discrepancies in bilateral trade analysis.

On enforcement efforts, Adeniyi said Nigeria remains determined to prevent the country from becoming a transit route for illegal wildlife trafficking and other transnational crimes, calling for improved intelligence sharing and joint operations with Chinese authorities.

He equally advocated stronger collaboration in tackling illegal mining activities and improving data-driven border enforcement operations.

Speaking during the visit, Dambazau expressed appreciation for the warm reception, describing the engagement with the Customs leadership as critical to the success of his diplomatic mission.

He said closer cooperation with the NCS would help maximise the benefits of Nigeria-China relations, particularly in trade and investment.

The ambassador-designate also underscored the strategic role of Customs in implementing zero-tariff trade arrangements for African countries, while emphasising the need for faster cargo clearance, stronger certification systems, and tighter regulation of imports from China.

He warned against the abuse of trade policies for unlawful activities and called for sustained collaboration between both countries.

“Stronger collaboration and continuous support from the NCS will ensure smoother trade processes and the full realisation of Nigeria-China trade relations,” Dambazau stated.

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