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YULETIDE: LAWMA Warns Against Improper Waste Disposal

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​The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA has tasked residents on proper waste disposal during the festive season, assuring of its readiness to tackle the expected surge in waste generation across the metropolis.

Managing director/CEO of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin who gave the charge on Monday in Lagos, said LAWMA has put in place measures to effectively increase the volume of managed waste at this time, as residents celebrate Christmas and the New Year holidays.

He said: “We have put adequate measures in place to address the increase in waste generation that comes with the festive season. Our teams are fully mobilised with trucks and personnel to ensure prompt collection and disposal of waste in all parts of Lagos.

“This is part of our commitment to making Lagos a clean and liveable city during and after the Christmas holidays,” Gbadegesin said.

According to him, LAWMA would deploy additional waste collection trucks and personnel to high-traffic areas, including markets, residential neighbourhoods, and commercial hubs as part of its operational strategies.

He added that the authority would work relentlessly to address peak waste volumes and ensure all areas receive prompt attention.

“Our approach is comprehensive. We are committed to maintaining a clean environment during and after the celebrations. However, we need the cooperation of all residents to bag and containerise their waste properly, to facilitate efficient collection.

“Waste left unbagged often scatters causes low turnaround time and hazards for our sweepers and other road users,” Gbadegesin said.

He, however, appealed to motorists to drive carefully and watch for sanitation workers who will be working tirelessly to clean roads and highways during the festive period.

“Road safety is paramount. We appeal to motorists to exercise patience and caution, especially around our sweepers. They are dedicated to keeping Lagos clean, and their lives should be safeguarded at all times.

“Reckless driving endangers everyone, and we urge all road users to be mindful and responsible,” Gbadegesin said.

He added: “Our goal is to establish a culture of cleanliness and responsibility, ensuring that waste is managed responsibly by every individual and household. This collective effort will significantly reduce environmental hazards and enhance waste collection efficiency.”

Lagos State Government Felicitates Women on Christmas, Reaffirms Commitment to Empowerment, Rights

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blacktalker
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As the joyous Christmas season unfolds, the Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, WAPA, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada has felicitated the Christian faithful, particularly women in the state.

Speaking in her christmas message, Hon. Dada reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, aligning with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus agenda.

She highlighted ongoing initiatives designed to uplift women, including skill acquisition programs, financial assistance, and other empowerment schemes aimed at fostering economic independence and enhancing their contributions to the state’s prosperity.

The Commissioner also reiterated the government’s determination to safeguard women’s rights, strengthening policies and enforcement mechanisms to ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all women.

“We remain resolute in creating a society where every woman can thrive without fear of discrimination, violence, or marginalization,” she stated.

She also acknowledged the invaluable role women play in families, communities, and the state’s progress.

“Women are the backbone of our society. Your hard work, compassion, and resilience inspire us all, and I deeply appreciate your contributions to the growth and development of Lagos,” Hon. Dada said.

Ho. Dada emphasized the significance of the festive period as a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity, urging everyone to extend kindness and support to those less privileged.

She also encouraged women across Lagos to reflect on the season’s spirit of kindness and unity while celebrating their accomplishments and contributions.

“Together, we can build a more inclusive and prosperous Lagos where every woman’s potential is fully realized. On behalf of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year,” she concluded.

Rite Foods’ Sosa Fruit Drink Brand bags ‘Innovative Soft Drink of the Year’ Award

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The Sosa Fruit Drink brand from the stable of Rite Foods Limited, has been recognised as the “Innovative Soft Drink of the Year 2024” by Marketing Space, a brand-focused magazine.

Sosa made its first entry into the market in 2022, and has grown to become a premium fruit drink with five unique flavours; Orange, Apple, Cranberry, Mixed Berries, and Orange-Passion-Mango, available in 35cl and 1-litre packs and setting a new standard for quality and taste. The fruit drink brand has grown to serve as the preferred choice for millions of Nigerians – with a range of options for its esteemed consumers.

Presenting the award, Ayobami Lukman, Publisher of Marketing Space magazine, stated that, “The popular reviews gathered from our surveys made Sosa the overwhelming favourites. The recognition is based on Sosa’s “extreme performance and incalculable impact in the course of the year. And for such a young brand, I believe Sosa will sustain the success trajectory with giant strides as it continues to usurp the dominance from the competition.”

In her remark, Ruth Mark, Assistant Brand Manager, Sosa Fruit Drink Brand of Rite Foods Limited, expressed her appreciation, saying, “We are thrilled that this is an acknowledgment of our commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction.”

She added “And we are committed to going the extra mile for all our stakeholders in the new year. This award is dedicated to our team, partners, and consumers for their tireless efforts, dedication, and loyalty. We are proud to make a positive impact because Rite Foods Limited is a proudly Nigerian Company that is truly world class.”

This recognition underscores the brand’s impressive growth trajectory, sterling performance in its competitive segment, outstanding equity rating, and consistently rising profile since its entrant into the fruit drink market segment barely two years ago.

Sosa Fruit Drink won its maiden award as the “Outstanding New Product of the Year – Juice” at the  Marketing Edge Brands and Advertising Excellence Awards in 2023.  

Lagos State Government Commends Pernod Ricard Nigeria’s Eco-Friendly Christmas Tree Initiative

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blacktalker
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In a festive celebration of sustainability and innovation, Pernod Ricard Nigeria has unveiled the Jameson Upcycled Bottle Christmas Tree at Ikeja City Mall. This remarkable 25-foot tree, crafted from thousands of recycled Jameson bottles, stands as a testament to the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and community engagement.

The event was graced by the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, who praised the initiative for its creative approach to recycling. He said the company’s plan aligns with Lagos state’s environmental sustainability programme, aimed at eradicating the use of plastics to avoid hazards associated with its usage. Pernod Ricard’s efforts in recycling and sustainability are commendable and set a standard for corporate responsibility.

The Jameson Upcycled Bottle Christmas Tree marks the beginning of a series of festive activities running until January 1, 2025, inspired by the “Twelve Days of Christmas.” These events aim to foster community spirit and raise awareness about the importance of sustainability. Highlights include bond and connect sessions, Jameson-themed activities, candle art and gifting corners, silent discos, carol singing, Owambe parties, sip and paint sessions, karaoke, open mic nights, and a grand New Year’s Day concert.

Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, also commended the initiative. “This project showcases the creativity and excellence in promoting recycling and reducing waste.  It aligns perfectly with Lagos state’s vision of ecological conservation and reducing toxic emissions,” she stated.

Michael Ehindero, Managing Director of Pernod Ricard Nigeria, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “The Jameson Upcycled Christmas Tree is a creative way to engage our community and promote ecological consciousness. By reusing bottles, we hope to inspire others to think sustainably and act responsibly.”

Join us at Ikeja City Mall to celebrate this unique blend of sustainability and festive joy. Together, we can make a difference and create a cleaner, healthier Lagos.

About Pernod Ricard Nigeria

Established in 2012, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, is a member of the Pernod Ricard Group, a worldwide leader in the spirits and wine industry, blending traditional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art brand-building, and global distribution technologies.

Our prestigious portfolio of premium to luxury brands includes Absolut vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes.

Our mission is to ensure the long-term development of our brands with full respect for people and the environment, while empowering our employees around the world to be ambassadors of our purposeful, inclusive, and responsible culture of authentic conviviality.

APWEN Lagos Present 2024 Scorecard, Pledges Sustainable Infrastructural Projects

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blacktalker
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The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN, Lagos chapter, has described 2024 as a year of growth, impact, and collaboration.

Chairwoman of APWEN Lagos, Engr. Atinuke Owolabi, made this known during the association’s 2024 Christmas STEM Fun/End-of-Year Party in Lagos.

She said the association made remarkable milestones in STEM education, capacity building, and community engagement in the year under review.

Engr. Owolabi said the association also made significant strides in empowering women and girls in engineering, promoting sustainability, and fostering innovation.

Among achievements, she noted, were impactful STEM programmes, training initiatives, and community projects.

Engr. Owolabi emphasised APWEN Lagos’ role in producing the first female President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and equipping members with skills through the association’s Skill-Up Initiative.

According to her, such skills include relevant industry skills such as the AI club for girls in engineering to inspire the next generation of innovators.

She explained that APWEN also embarked on training on IoT, AutoCAD, digital manufacturing, and power systems. She mentioned championing the EcoEngage Initiative to prepare young girls aged 10 to 16 as leaders in climate change and environmental sustainability.

She highlighted partnerships with organisations like AutoGiG, Tranos, Dangote, and MOMAS, providing scholarships, internships, and technical training.

According to the Chairman, APWEN also inspired young girls through career talks, cleanup drives, and free JAMB forms.

Looking ahead, she noted that APWEN Lagos plans solarpreneur training, sustainable infrastructure projects, and continued community development efforts. Engr. Owolabi urged members to embrace the spirit of giving and togetherness this festive season.

(NAN)

Ogun Police Command Warns Against Reckless Driving As Fatal Motor Accident Claims Three Lives on Ilisan/Ago-Iwoye Road

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blacktalker
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The Ogun State Police Command has urged motorists and other road users to shun habits that might result in the loss of lives and property on the roads.

Police Public Relations Officer in the State, SP Omolola Odutola, ANIPR made the call in reaction to a tragic motor accident that occurred on December 20, 2024, at approximately 3:30 PM along the Ilisan/Ago Iwoye road in Ogun State.

Odutola noted that the incident involved a commercial Opel Safira, bearing the license plate Lagos AAA-126HE, driven by Adekunkle Adebiyi, who is a resident of no.5 Sunmibare Street, Awa Ijebu.

”The vehicle, traveling at high speed from Ago Iwoye towards Ilisan, lost control and flipped into the bushes. Tragically, a male passenger, believed to be a student from Olabisi Onabanjo University, OOU, was killed instantly and his body has been taken to the General Hospital Ijebu Ode mortuary.

”In addition to the fatality, two female students from OOU, Dada Oluwanifesimi, 18, a sophomore in Mass Communication, and Miracle Ogo Oluwa Daniel, 19, a junior were rushed to Love and Care Hospital.

”Despite receiving medical attention, they both succumbed to their injuries, while two other students from OOU are currently receiving treatment at the OOU Medical Centre on the Mini Campus” she noted.

SP Odutola, who said the vehicle has been recovered and stored at the police station for further investigation, added that the Ogun State Police Command expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.

Entertainment Guru, Harrison Akadidi Becomes First Faculty Member of GMA’s 6th Edition

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blacktalker
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Entertainment Guru, Harrison Akadidi has been officially named as the first member of the esteemed faculty for the 6th Edition of the Galaxy Music Awards, GMA.

The GMA Faculty comprised of influential music industry professionals, is responsible for nominating deserving individuals and organizations across various categories, including Music Artists, Producers, Media Houses, and other creatives.

The faculty plays a crucial role in the awards process with its members ranging between 35 and 42 professionals from diverse fields such as radio presenters, A&R, TV presenters, producers, management executives, show promoters, and DJs work together to decide the nominees for each edition.

The Galaxy Music Awards, originally founded as a regional Southern Entertainment Award Programme, has grown into a national celebration of Nigerian music.

Past winners include globally recognized artists such as Burna Boy, Odumodu Black, Omah Lay, DJ Neptune, and media giants like Cool FM, highlighting the award’s importance in the industry.

The 6th Edition of the GMA will take place in February 2025 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State promising to be a major event that will host some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music scene.

EWAN Elects New Executives, Holds 2024 AGM

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blacktalker
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The Education Writers’ Association of Nigeria, EWAN, a body of journalists drawn from the print, broadcast, and online mediums, who specialise in reporting issues around the education sector in the country, has elected new executive committee members to steer its affairs for the next three years.

The election, which was conducted on Thursday, 19th December 2024 during the association’s Annual General Meeting, AGM at the International Press Centre, Ogba, Lagos, was supervised by the electoral committee chaired by Mr. Sam Nzeh, an editor with Daily Times Newspapers.

The electoral committee also had a former education editor at The Nation Newspaper, Adegunle Olugbamila, as a member, while Medinat Kanabe of the Voice of Naija news platform was the secretary.  

At the end of the election, the Head of the Development Desk at PREMIUM TIMES, Mojeed Alabi, was re-elected as chairman of the association while the Education Editor of Guardian Newspaper, Iyabo  Lawal, emerged as the vice chairperson. 

Funmi Ogundare of ThisDay Newspaper, and a newly appointed Managing Editor of DevReporting, a development-focused news platform, Christiana Alabi-Akande, were elected as secretary and assistant secretary. 

Other members of the new executive committee include a senior staffer of Radio Lagos/Eko FM, Tayo Olorunyomi (treasurer); Saidat Alausa of Brand Visibility (financial secretary), and Oyeniran Apata of Daily Independent Newspapers as welfare officer.

Delivering his acceptance speech, the re-elected chairman expressed his profound gratitude to the outgoing executive committee for their dedication and to the members of the association for entrusting him and his team with another term.

He noted that the decision to re-elect him reflects the association’s confidence in its leadership and a call to continue the important work of moving the organisation forward while impacting the education sector towards reclaiming its lost glory.

“It is often said that the reward for hard work is more work. I believe this aptly captures the decision of our esteemed editors and members who have returned us to the ring for another three years of service. It is both an honour and a challenge that we wholeheartedly embrace,” Mr. Alabi stated.

The chairman emphasised the association’s need to focus on impactful interventions in the nation’s education sector. He reaffirmed the new executive committee’s commitment to upholding quality reporting and prioritising advocacy as a tool for driving change in the education sector.

According to him, the association will strive to reclaim the lost glory of the education sector through continuous engagement with stakeholders and collaboration across various fronts.

“This new term offers us the opportunity to advance the goals of this noble organisation. Beyond reporting, advocacy remains a critical tool, and we reaffirm our commitment to rededicate ourselves to the progress of this great association. With your continued support, we are confident that EWAN will achieve new milestones and create lasting impacts,” he said.

NIMC Reaffirms Zero Tolerance for Extortion in NIN Enrollment

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NIMC APPROVES PRICE REVIEW FOR ITS SERVICES, PRODUCTS

The National Identity Management Commission, NIMC has restated its commitment to a strict policy of zero tolerance for extortion during the National Identification Number, NIN enrollment process.

The Commission also clarified that NIN enrollment is completely free of charge, and it does not authorize any of its staff or Front-End Partners, FEPs to charge applicants.

In a statement issued by its Head of Corporate Communications, Kayodde Adegoke on December 20, 2024, NIMC assured the public that any staff member or FEP found engaging in extortion will face serious consequences.

According to the statement, the Commission has directed security agencies to take immediate action against violators, with offenders being sanctioned in accordance with the law, while the license of any FEP involved in such practices will be revoked.

NIMC also called on the public to report any instances of extortion, providing the following contact details for complaints: Email: customercare@nimc.gov.ng, Phone: 07002255646.

Irish Born Nigeria Singer, ANÉ set to redefine Afro RNB

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blacktalker
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Afro beats rise in the last 2 decades has been nothing short of staggering, the genre has enjoyed a slow but steady rise in popularity around the world, and has come to dominate Spotify and YouTube playlists.

The genre is now influencing artists in the US and Europe alike, and a new breed of Afrobeats superstars with a different cultural orientation.

The influence of Afrobeats can be seen across various music genres, as artists from different backgrounds incorporate its unique rhythms and sound into their work.

Major international artists such as Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Chris Brown and Major Lazer have collaborated with Afrobeats stars, blending their sounds to create hit songs that resonate with global audiences.

Most of us are lucky to be good at one thing and then some of us are multi-talented, this can be said of ANÉ.  Vocalist, Writer, and fashion designer Born in Nigeria raised in Ireland and currently London based – ANÉ is a star on the rise.

Annette Aigbogun with stage name ANÉ studied law and Spanish at Under-grade level, this influenced her Music ANÉ. She is currently studying for a master’s degree in Music industry management at the University of West London.

ANÉ Discovered her interest in music at a very young aged, Her dad is a big fan of Celine Dion , so she had a lot of music influence growing up .However Nigerian hip-hop and RNB sensation P-square were her biggest music influence .

Speaking during an exclusive interview, ANÉ had quite a lot to share on her music background  ‘’ As I Child I didn’t go out often, I was a little bit of an introvert and an extrovert, Music was more like my escaped, I got CDs and listen to the artists and write their lyrics on paper, I was really into poems and my favorite subject in school was English. So poems where my original gateway to song writing.

I didn’t start writing and singing professionally till 2020, the Covid Year , I had time on my hands during the lockdown , then I found a studio and recorded my first song separate ways which I have taken down ( chuckles) It was a pure RNB song because I felt that was the exact direction I wanted to go . I took a break and came back with my other songs’’


Speaking on her X Factor, ANÉ believes she has her own flavor, and she being Irish gives her the perspective of people who grew up in the Diaspora, and she is the bridge connecting both Irish Nigerians and Nigerians back home. With the support of her family, and her community and her dad being so involved its easier for her to thrive and she’s already used to the pressure and challenges.


Speaking on her Sound ‘’ I will say my actual sound is Afro RNB , that’s why it doesn’t sound like a typical RNB and doesn’t sound like pure Afrobeats either , and that’s very intentional because for me growing up Afro beat to me had a lot of culture in it and for you to be able to get your message clear you have to be raised in Nigeria , so with I understand there is only so much I can do that’s why my sound is afro RNB that’s my way of bridging the gap’’.


ANÉ describes her sound as extremely inspirational, feel good, motivational and factually explicit. They reflect her personality, which is simple, upfront and straightforward and also connect to young girls who aspire to do more.  ‘For Me personally the Aim isn’t to sound like what’s already out there , the Aim isn’t to sound like Asake, the Aim isn’t to Sound Like Tems or Ayra star, the Aim is to Sound  Like ANÉ and be the best at what I do’

ANÉ is working on a 3 parked project for the first quarter of 2025, before she comes down to Nigeria for her full EP.

She looks forward to collaboration with a handful of Nigeria Artistes, and believes she has a similar kind of vibes with Omah Lay .

She is certainly one of those to look out for in 2025.

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