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2nd Dr. Mike Adenuga Public Lecture: UNILAG Don Proposes “New Entreprise Nigeria” Model

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A Professor of Entrepreneurship Hub and Strategic Management at the University of Lagos and the first Occupier Professor of the Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies, Professor Sunday Adebisi, has proposed a “New Entreprise Nigeria” NEN Model which is anchored on transparency, accountability and responsible behavior among the political elites and entire citizenry.

He proposed this while delivering the second Special Annual Lecture of Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium of UNILAG, Akoka.

Titled: “Navigating the Present Stormy Nigerian Economy: the New Entreprise Nigeria as the Anchorage”, Prof. Adebisi identified the NEN Model as a viable pathway to stabilize Nigeria’s economy while repositioning it for long-term growth and sustainable development.

The lecture saw Prof Adebisi recall Nigeria’s economic fortunes in the 1980s which ranked among middle-income/developing economies such as Spain, Singapore, Indonesia, China, and Mexico among other countries, a milestone which he said, was lost by the 1990s due to Nigeria’s over-reliance on revenue from oil boom at the expense of cash crop production and exports.

The Professor of Entrepreneurship Hub and Strategic Management identified overdependence on oil, weak infrastructures, insecurity, regional instability and food crisis, humungous public national debt, high unemployment, floatation of the Naira against other currencies, fuel subsidy removal and full deregulation of the petroleum sector, continued surge in inflation and the resultant high cost of living as well as unprecedented poverty and declining living standard of Nigerians as major highlights of the current Nigerian economy.

He hinged the challenging economy on decades of mismanagement of resources, unguided and ill-fated policies, and misplacement of financial priorities and investments by successive leaderships.

Prof. Adebisi highlighted components of the New Entreprise Nigeria to include:

  • Realistic Diagnosis and Acceptability of the Present Predicament,
  • Collective Acceptability of Guilt for the present predicament,
  • Investment in fit-for-purpose infrastructures,
  • Alignment of all ministerial activities to meet national needs,
  • 25-year Food Security Plan,
  • Stoppage of borrowings and rescheduling of debt servicing,
  • Digitization of bureau de change transactions,
  • Aggressive job creation through entreprise and Start-up creation as well as investment in innovation drivers,
  • Proper management of proceeds accruable from oil subsidy removal,
  • Reduction of inflation as well as,
  • Intentional and continuous youth re-orientation and wealth creation opportunities.

The lecturer passed a vote of confidence in the ability of President Bola Tinubu to navigate through and address all the present economic challenges but charged him to brace up for the responsibilities of leading Nigeria and Nigerians by selecting the right persons to work with, evolving, and implementing policies which will improve people’s living condition, adding value to the Naira and steering the nation’s economy out of the present predicament towards stability, growth, and development.

He introduced a new coinage called “Politicoprenuership” which he says recognizes the huge investment that goes into winning political offices but tasks winners and occupiers of positions to prioritize creating value for the society and meeting the collective dreams of a sustainable society before recouping their investments.

Prof. Adebisi also advocated what he called the “Acada-Solution Consortium” which he said makes it mandatory for vice-chancellors of universities and all renowned professors to come up with what their laboratories and research centres need, equip them, mobilize all resources towards specific areas of national challenges and research viable solutions to them.

The Special Annual Lecture was also an opportunity for the Speaker, Professor Sunday Adebisi, to present his scorecard as he concludes his tenure and bows out as the first Occupier of the Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies.

In his remarks, the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa congratulated Professor Sunday Adebisi for his milestones in Entrepreneurship development. According to him, the milestones put him and Ondo State, his State of origin, on the world map.

The Ondo State helmsman who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, recalled how the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) was introduced in 1986 to steer the nation’s economy while de-emphasizing government’s involvement in pricing.

He highlighted efforts being made to build the first African Silicon Valley in Ondo State through Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a feat, which he said facilitated entrepreneurial support for over 25,000 Ondo State residents in different capacities.

While appreciating the Endower of the Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies, Chief (Dr.) Mike Adenuga Jnr., Dr. Adelami also applauded the management of UNILAG for the commitment and milestone achievements in promoting and supporting entrepreneurship, especially among students.

He noted the feat must be sustained and further supported by stakeholders so as to steer Nigeria into a prosperous future where every Nigerian is empowered.

In her remarks as the Chief Host, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, adjudged the lecture a testament to UNILAG’s forward-thinking vision to bridge the gap between academic excellence and practical innovation.

While appreciating Chief (Dr.) Mike Adenuga Jnr. for the endowment which signifies his commitment to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in the society and inspiring the next generation of innovators, Prof Ogunsola said the annual public lecture also signals UNILAG’s strategic commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research, creating industry-academic partnerships, promoting town-gown relationships, and equipping students with the skills needed to not only thrive in a dynamic global economy but be leaders that shape the future.

The 2nd (second) Special Annual Lecture of Dr. Mike Adenuga (Jnr) Professorial Chair in Entrepreneurship Studies was chaired by African Entrepreneur, Global Culture Shaper and Founder, Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy, Dr. Ibukun Awosika.

She described the lecture as a laudable initiative that will provide a platform to rethink and re-examine issues affecting national economic policies, generate ideas, foster collaborations, and inspire actionable solutions to the challenges and opportunities within the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

LASG FIXES DATE FOR SECOND PHASE OF 2024 BECE RESIT EXAMINATIONS

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Lagos Begins E-Registration, Payment for 2026 UBE by CAS, Placement Test

The Lagos State Government has fixed Monday,2nd of December, 2024 for the second phase of the Basic Education Certificate Examination, BECE Re-sit Exams.

In a statement, the Director of the Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, stated that the second resit for the Year 2024 Basic Education Certificate Examination became necessary to provide another opportunity for students who missed out in the previous BECE Re-sit held on Wednesday, 6th of November 2024.

He noted that the Lagos State Examinations Board is an examination body that promotes sustainable academic excellence in the State and equally determines the life of the students through the conduct of credible, reliable, and acceptable examinations.

”As a result of this, there is a need for the Exams Board to give the students who missed out on the initial resit another opportunity to write their core subjects which includes; English Studies or Mathematics or both”.

The Director reiterated the importance of English Studies and Mathematics which are core subjects and are prerequisites for a student to transition to the Senior Secondary School Level ( SSS ONE).

Orunsolu noted that the policy of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education says “Leave No Child Behind”. The initiative aims to provide equitable access to free and qualitative education in the State.

He urged all relevant stakeholders and school authorities to ensure that the affected students take advantage of this unique opportunity and seek utmost cooperation and understanding in working together to achieve the shared objectives.

The Director noted that the scheduled resit examination would be held on Monday, 2nd of December, 2024 at the premises of the Exams Board, Iyana Ipaja by 10.00 am prompt.

Wema Bank awards 145 Million Naira to Seven Outstanding Innovators At Hackaholics 5.0 Grand Finale.

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Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has successfully concluded the 5th edition of its Hackaholics initiative, a premier ideathon designed to empower and support the nation’s brightest tech innovators.

The grand finale, which took place recently in Lagos, witnessed a remarkable showcase of ingenuity and problem-solving prowess, culminating in seven startups sharing an impressive 145 million naira in prize money—nearly double the initial prize fund of 75 million naira.

This year’s Hackaholics stood out with a record-breaking 3,500 applications from across Nigeria. From this pool, 10 finalists showcased innovative solutions addressing real-world challenges, ranging from education accessibility to sustainable agriculture, healthcare, and more.

Feegor, the overall winner, was awarded the top prize of 50 million naira for its innovative B2B wholesale marketplace and SaaS platform. Feegor empowers SMEs to discover, negotiate, and source goods from verified suppliers while accessing credit through a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) model. This groundbreaking approach is set to drive growth and create a significant economic impact.

The first runner-up, Empayment AI, received 35 million naira for its AI-powered invoice discounting platform, revolutionizing how businesses manage payments. Bloom Beauty, the second runner-up, was awarded 20 million naira for its personalized, AI-curated solutions that are transforming the beauty industry.

In the women-led category, MyTherapist secured the position of first runner-up, earning 12 million naira. MyTherapist connects users with mental health professionals, providing accessible and affordable therapy solutions for emotional well-being. Meanwhile, MyItura, an innovator delivering remote healthcare services, clinched the position of second runner-up in the women-led category, receiving 8 million naira.

Both Northino and University X earned honorable mentions at the grand finale, each receiving 10 million naira. Northino was recognized for bridging traditional knowledge and modern technology through digital skills training for African native speakers, while University X impressed with its transparent, all-encompassing platform for tertiary education management.

The significance of these groundbreaking innovations was highlighted by Wema Bank’s CEO, Moruf Oseni, who shared his vision for the initiative. In his words, “We are delighted to celebrate the brilliance of our youth through the Hackaholics initiative.

At Wema Bank, we are more than a bank; we are enablers of dreams and drivers of transformation. When I stood here earlier, the total prize money was 75 million naira. But, inspired by the potential we saw, we decided to increase the total prize pool to 145 million naira. Wema Bank’s legacy of 79 years remains rooted in innovation, and with initiatives like Hackaholics, we continue to empower lives and shape the future.”

The CEO of Feegor and the overall winner, Ugonna Ginigeme, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition and support. “I feel very grateful to God, my team, and everyone who has been part of this journey. Winning among so many great startups and entrepreneurs is humbling. I sincerely thank the MD, Wema Bank, and its management for this incredible opportunity.

These are still early days, but we are determined to keep working, building, and creating a positive impact for SMEs and the Nigerian economy while building an all-around successful company.” Ginigeme said.

Hackaholics 5.0 not only underscores Wema Bank’s legacy of innovation but also sets the stage for further technological advancements, fostering a generation of problem-solvers poised to reshape Nigeria’s future.

Health Experts Link Sugary Drinks Industry To Climate Change

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Health and climate experts have identified the sugar-sweetened beverages, SSB industry as a major driver of the climate crisis, urging the Nigerian Government to implement measures to curb their consumption in the interest of public health and the environment.

They made this call while speaking on Friday at a webinar titled “SSB and Climate Change: Climate Cost of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages,” organized by Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA.

These experts warned that excessive sugary drink consumption is not only a risk factor for non-communicable diseases, NCDs but that the single-use plastics, SUPs favoured as packaging by the SSB industry emit greenhouse gases, GHGs alongside toxic pollutants that threaten human safety and food security.

To curb the problem, they advocated implementing an improved, effective, and pro-health SSB Tax, the proceeds of which can be channelled towards strengthening the health sector to better serve NCD patients.

CAPPA’s Executive Director Akinbode Oluwafemi, noted the webinar’s significance adding that it is coming at the end of the Climate Change Conference COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan.

“The use of plastics by soda companies has been a significant contributor to climate change and Coca-Cola, for instance, has been named the world’s top plastic polluter followed by PepsiCo,” Oluwafemi added.

Public health expert and lecturer at the University of Ibadan Dr. Francis Fagbule, warned of the dangers of excessive SSB consumption, saying it could result in NCDs – non-infectious long-term health consequences that often create a need for long-term treatment and care, such as lung Diseases, Cardiovascular Diseases, Cancer, and Type 2 Diabetes, among others,

On the focus on SSBs despite other risk factors for NCDs, Fagbule explained that SSBs are among the leading sources of free sugars, and they contain little to no added nutritional value.

He noted that the SSB industry spends billions on marketing and advertising to attract consumers despite being aware of the health consequences of their products.

Fagbule added: “Increase in SSB consumption leads to increase in NCDs, so we need to decrease SSB consumption and the SSB Taxation is one of the best ways to achieve this.

“There is incontrovertible evidence linking SSB consumption and hypertension, even among adolescents and children.

“Studies show that SSBs may pose greater health risks, including the risk of metabolic syndrome, compared to sugar-containing solid foods.”

CAPPA’s Senior Programmes Manager and Head of its Climate Change Programme, Olamide Martins Ogunlade, highlighted the health implications associated with plastic waste while emphasizing the need for urgent action.

Speaking on the topic “Plastic Climate Change: Establishing the Nexus, Counting the Costs”, Ogunlade shared data showing that 40 percent of the plastics produced worldwide have been traced to food and beverage packaging – typically used once and then discarded.

“Not only are single-use plastics warming the planet, but they are also impairing our environment and physical health. As plastics are discarded into the environment, they eventually break into microplastics that can leach toxic additives. These microplastics accumulate in commercially harvested fish, enter drinking water supplies, and seep into agricultural soils, altering food crops.

“Worst still, these SUPs now host and provide brands to most of the sugar-sweetened beverages, SSBs in town, increasing the potency of their anticipated damage,” Ogunlade said.

He warned that exposure to toxic chemicals and microplastics through inhalation and ingestion can lead to serious health issues, including cancer and endocrine disruption, potentially affecting reproductive and cognitive functions.

Ogunlade noted that Nigeria’s plastic consumption has surged dramatically over the past 15 years with plastic consumption outstripping production, while less than 12 percent is recycled.

Tracing the relationship between SUPs and climate change, he said: “Greenhouse gases, GHG are emitted throughout the plastic life cycle. At the disposal stage, incineration of plastic waste releases significant GHG into the atmosphere, alongside toxic pollutants. Plastics also interfere with the ocean’s capacity to absorb and filter carbon dioxide threatening ocean life and diversity.

“Plastics don’t biodegrade. They take hundreds of years to break down. They build up in the environment, damaging soil, poisoning groundwater, and choking marine wildlife.”

As to how SUPs affect human health, he explained that the most common SUPs are found in cigarette butts, plastic drinking bottles, plastic bottle caps, food wrappers, etc.

“Humans are exposed to toxic chemicals and microplastics through inhalation, ingestion, and direct skin contact. They can then cause cancer, change hormone activity, and break down the human system,” he added.

To address the challenges, Ogunlade suggested implementing various policies aimed at reducing plastic waste, including Nigeria’s National Policy on Plastic Waste Management. He further urged manufacturers to reduce their plastic footprint by redesigning packaging and adopting alternative materials.

Zenith Bank Illuminates Ajose Adeogun Street, Ushering in the Festive Season

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L-R: Executive Director, Zenith Bank Plc, Mr. Henry Oroh; General Manager, Quantum Markets, Mrs. Dani Punam; Executive Director, Zenith Bank, Mrs. Adobi Nwapa; Wife of the Founder and Chairman of Zenith Bank Plc, Mrs. Kay Ovia; Group Managing Director/Chief Executive, Zenith Bank Plc, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON; and Executive Director, Zenith Bank, Mr. Adamu Lawani during the 2024 Zenith Bank Christmas Light-Up of Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos at the weekend.

In line with its annual tradition, Zenith Bank has once again set the stage for the Yuletide season by illuminating Ajose Adeogun Street and Roundabout in Victoria Island, Lagos, on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The Light-Up ceremony was conducted by Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank Plc.

This Light-Up ceremony is part of Zenith Bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Now in its 18th year, the enchanting Christmas decoration transforms Ajose Adeogun Street, which houses Zenith Bank’s Corporate Headquarters, into a breathtaking yuletide wonderland. This spectacle has become an iconic tourist attraction, drawing visitors from near and far to take photos and soak in the festive atmosphere.

Speaking at the event, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji said, “Over the years, Zenith Bank has hosted this spectacular event, transforming Ajose Adeogun Street into a breathtaking yuletide wonderland. Our beautiful and elaborate Christmas decorations have become a global attraction on social media platforms. As we light up the street tonight, we celebrate the essence of Christmas and Zenith Bank’s unparalleled CSR.

Our customers will always be at the center of all that we do in Zenith Bank.” She urged everyone to embrace the Christmas spirit, which emphasizes love, kindness, generosity, and respect for humanity, and thanked the Lagos State Government for providing an enabling environment for the initiative.

She also praised Quantum Markets for their expertise and creativity in decorating the street annually. “I want to thank the management of Quantum Markets for all the beautiful, creative, and innovative ideas they keep coming up with. Quantum Markets always make it bigger and better every year, and we are always looking forward to it,” she said.

Zenith Bank remains committed to enhancing the economic, cultural, and social development of its host communities.

The bank’s sustainability and CSR initiatives are founded on the belief that business performance goes beyond financial numbers and includes social investments, contributions to inclusive economic growth, and improvements in the physical environment.

As recognition of its contributions and social investments in its host communities and society at large, Zenith Bank was named the “Most Sustainable Bank, Nigeria” at the 2023 and 2024 International Banker Banking Awards and “Most Responsible Organization in Africa” at the Sustainability, Enterprise, and Responsibility (SERAS) Awards 2021.

Is Culture Fuelling Excessive Salt Intake Among Nigerians?

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By Bukola Olukemi-Odele

Salt has been an integral part of human existence since time immemorial. It is an important ingredient in our diets and is used by diverse populations regardless of race, age, status, religion and diversity. Salt has been an additive since ancient times due to its pivotal role in food processing and preservation.

In Nigeria, salt is used for different purposes, including expressing joy, hospitality, and acceptance at meetings and other occasions. It is also distributed as gifts and souvenirs at parties and sometimes as part of the items requested for bride price payment. Furthermore, salt is of spiritual significance as it is often used in rituals, prayers, initiations and sacrifices. In some communities, salt is believed to have medicinal properties leading to excessive consumption.

For economic reasons, salt and seasoning cubes may be used as a cheaper substitute for other natural seasonings or spices, which may be more expensive but provide better health and nutritional benefits. Because of this accessibility and affordability, they can be overused or abused in a way that could hurt human health. Raised blood pressure, as a result of consuming high levels of sodium in salt, bouillon, monosodium glutamate (locally called “white Maggi”) and processed foods, increases the risk of kidney failure and cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes, which are now the leading cause of death and disabilities in developing countries like Nigeria.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the recommended daily limit for salt intake is 5grammes (less than a teaspoon), equivalent to 2grammes of sodium, but Nigeria currently records an alarmingly high estimated daily salt consumption reaching up to 10 grammes. Dietary sodium comes from 3 distinct sources: packaged foods, food prepared outside the home (e.g., restaurants), and additional discretionary sources (adding salt to foods prepared at home during cooking or eating). However, sources of dietary sodium intake differ among populations.

Our cravings for salty and spicy food are socially acquired and largely influenced by culture and misleading marketing and advertising, hence it can be adjusted. Culture, a socially acquired knowledge system, can be transmitted from one generation to another. It consists of a collection of customs, beliefs, laws, religions, social precepts, arts, skills and other capabilities acquired by man as a member of his society. It lays down norms and behaviours that secure an individual or group in his personal identity or social construct.

Some of these cultural norms and beliefs have positive values that benefit mankind, while others are harmful. Cultural influences on high salt intake can be seen in various aspects of food choices, preparation, consumption and overall health. These cultural patterns vary across diverse populations for instance, in Nigerian culture, food plays a significant role in social gatherings and celebrations hence, salty foods and snacks may be served in public spaces contributing to excessive salt consumption.

Many traditional dishes such as soups, stews and sauces rely heavily on high-sodium condiments such as salt and bouillon (seasoning cubes) for flavour enhancement. Added to that is the age-long but still practised use of large quantities of salt as a preservative to extend the shelf life of fish, meat, fermented locust beans and vegetables.

According to a 2021 study by the  National Centre for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, which sampled Native Americans and Nigerians living in the United States, understanding cultural variations in diet and dietary practices that affect sodium intake has important implications for public health interventions.

The study found, among others, that some of the interventions designed to reduce salt/sodium intake amongst indigenous Americans were less effective compared to Nigerians, primarily due to differences in their dietary sodium sources. While Native Americans consumed excessive sodium largely from processed, packaged, store-bought and restaurant foods, Nigerians derived high sodium levels from processed foods, as well as indigenous soups, stews and sauces. These native meals are often made using a combination of salt, bouillon cubes, monosodium glutamate and other artificial seasonings.

Considering that bouillon cubes already contain salt, disodium inosinate, monosodium glutamate, and hydrogenated oils, their combined use with cooking salt in homemade Nigerian dishes results in sodium intake levels that exceed WHO’s recommended limits.

As a result, public health interventions targeted towards reducing salt intake among Nigerians have been tailored to address the cultural patterns that increase consumption. These include education and awareness programs targeting women, as primary preparers of household food, as well as hotels, restaurants, and fast-food outlets.  Educational interventions for children, such as incorporating salt reduction messages in school curriculums, have also been introduced.

In addition to education, setting mandatory salt targets for processed and pre-packaged foods, coupled with strict regulation and monitoring, is essential to ensure accountability and compliance by food industries.

Furthermore, implementing and enforcing front-of-pack warning labels is critical. These labels provide consumers with clear, easy-to-comprehend nutritional information at a glance, enabling informed decision-making and promoting healthier eating habits.

About Bukola Olukemi-Odele.

Bukola, a food scientist, is the Programme Officer, Sodium Reduction at Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) www.cappaafrica.org

UNITED NATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO LASU VICE-CHANCELLOR

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The Vice-Chancellor and members of the university management have received a 2-man team of the United Nations Development Programme (Lagos office) who paid her a courtesy visit at her office on the 6th Floor of the Babatunde Raji Fashola Senate Building, LASU main campus, Ojo.

The Head UNDP (Lagos office) Mr. Williams Tsuma, in his speech, stated the reason for the visit to the university. He said the UNDP, Lagos office, is set to institutionalise partnership with the University for innovation and in the area of entrepreneurship.

The Vice-Chancellor, in her response, expressed her gratitude and welcomed the partnership. She said, “Our world-class students are always eager and ready to learn, and staff that are equally supportive”.



The courtsey visit had in attendance members of the university management, Director DICT, Prof. Toyin Enikuomehun, Deputy Registrar, Legal, Mrs Olajumoke Boyejo, Deputy Registrar, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr Lateef Shekoni, Deputy Registrar/Special Assistant to the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Lateef Salami and other members of the Vice-Chancellor’s office.

The Registrar, who was represented by the Deputy Registrar, Academic Staff Establishment – Mr Samuel Otesanya gave the vote of thanks at the event.

Rite Foods Wins ‘Waste Reduction Initiative of the Year Award’

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Rite Foods Limited, Nigeria’s leading food and beverage company, has clinched the ‘Waste Reduction Initiative of the Year Award’ at the Social Impact & Sustainability Awards (SISA 2024).

According to the award organizers, Rite Foods will receive the award ” for innovative efforts in waste reduction, setting a benchmark for environmental responsibility, and promoting sustainable practices within the industry.”

Specifically, three initiatives by the company this year qualified it for the award. They include Rite Recycle Initiative, which is designed to educate children on the importance of recycling in building a sustainable world; Rite-on-the-Beach, which focuses on clearing plastic waste from coastal areas in partnership with Popbeach Club; and its partnership with Sterling One Foundation to carry out extensive clean-up exercises on Lagos beaches.

Presenting the award to Rite Foods, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of CSR Reporter, Eche Munonye, congratulated Rite Foods for its commitment to sustainable practices, adding that “SISA recognizes organizations and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to social impact, environmental stewardship, and ethical business practices”.

In his remarks, Rite Foods Limited’s Corporate Communications Manager said that as a responsible organization, environmental sustainability is integrated into the Company’s business strategy and expressed fulfillment that the Company’s initiatives and partnership efforts have been recognized by the wider public, including CSR Reporters.

“The feat attests to the company’s commitment to sustainable practices geared towards creating more sustainable communities along the Lagos shorelines through Rite-on-the-Beach which was launched in August 2021”, he said.

He affirmed that ‘Rite-on-the-beach’ sets up recycling ecosystems for plastic collection in coastal communities that lack disposal infrastructure and aims to combat ocean plastic pollution, improve literacy, and create employment opportunities by facilitating the exchange of waste plastic for education scholarships for children in disadvantaged coastal communities.  

“Rite Foods has an unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and has been supporting the Residency Project of the Lagos Eco-Resort, Popbeach Club for students of tertiary institutions in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Law faculties, to keep them enlightened on the values inherent in ecological preservation”, he added.

Ogun State Police Command Launches Inspector-General’s Safe Schools Initiative, Inaugurates Schools Protection Squad

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…As Governor Abiodun Seeks Collaboration Between Educational Institutions, Communities.

To ensure the safety and security of educational institutions across Ogun State, the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, Alamutu Abiodun, has launched the Inspector-General of Police’s Safe Schools Initiative and formally inaugurated the “Schools Protection Squad,” SPS.

This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to fortify schools and provide a secure environment for students, educators, and school communities.

During his address at the event, CP Alamutu emphasized the critical importance of schools as not only centres of learning but also as sanctuaries for the future of Nigeria.

He highlighted the recent increase in incidents of violence and insecurity within schools, underscoring the need for a proactive approach to school safety. According to him, the initiative is designed to tackle these threats head-on and create an environment conducive to learning.

“Education is the foundation of our society, a catalyst for progress,” the Commissioner said. “It is essential that these institutions are protected from any threats that may disrupt learning, instill fear, or endanger the lives of those who walk through their doors. The safety of our children is not only an administrative concern but a collective moral obligation.”

He further stressed that when students feel secure, they thrive academically and socially, noting that a safe educational environment encourages higher attendance rates, promotes well-being, and allows educators to focus on shaping responsible citizens.

The Commissioner noted that safe schools ultimately benefit entire communities by fostering productive and positive citizens who contribute to the growth and stability of society.

He called on all stakeholders such as law enforcement, educators, parents, and community members to play their part in securing the schools. He also encouraged parents to remain vigilant and actively engage in their children’s education and well-being, while educators should create safe spaces for students to express concerns without fear.

CP Alamutu also appealed to the community to champion the cause of safety for all children, emphasizing that the responsibility for ensuring the safety of schools is shared by all.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of the Ogun State Police Command to the safety of children, educators, and the broader community. He called for collective action to foster a culture of safety in schools, ensuring that every institution becomes a pillar of strength within its community.

In his keynote address, Ogun State Governor, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, expressed his gratitude to the Nigeria Police for initiating the forum, which focuses on strengthening security resilience and enhancing community participation in the protection of schools.

“I am honored to share in the discussions around the critical issue of strengthening security resilience and integrating host communities in the protection of our schools and learning places,” said Governor Abiodun.

He commended the two-day workshop aimed at equipping security agencies in Ogun State with practical tools and strategies to protect schools and learning institutions across the state.

The Governor emphasized the importance of safeguarding educational institutions, noting that schools are not just centers of learning, but sanctuaries of hope, growth, and development for Nigeria’s future generations.

He expressed concern over the increasing threats to schools, including violence and kidnappings, which have become major challenges in the country’s educational sector.

“The theme ‘Strengthening Security Resilience and Integration of Host Communities’ is timely and relevant,” Governor Abiodun remarked. “Without the safety and security of our children, there can be no meaningful education, no sustainable development, and no future for our nation.”

He also highlighted the crucial role of host communities in the security of schools, urging for stronger collaboration between schools and their surrounding communities to foster a safe learning environment.

The Governor outlined Ogun State’s efforts in enhancing security, such as the Ogun State Security Trust Fund and community policing initiatives like Amotekun and So-safe Corps, which promote a shared responsibility for security between the government and local communities.

Governor Abiodun further emphasized the need to integrate modern technology and intelligence-driven solutions into the security framework. He highlighted the use of surveillance systems, information-sharing platforms, and data analytics as essential tools for preventing and responding to potential threats before they escalate.

The Schools Protection Squad will consist of specially trained personnel tasked with identifying specific security vulnerabilities in schools and implementing preventive measures. The initiative will also include a series of training programmes for educators, administrators, and security personnel to ensure that everyone involved is equipped to recognize and respond to potential threats.

The squad will also utilize modern technology and intelligence-led policing to ensure a strong law enforcement presence around schools.

As part of its duties, the Schools Protection Squad will conduct regular patrols, organize personal safety workshops for students, and maintain open lines of communication with parents and educators to foster a collaborative effort in ensuring the safety of the school environment.

The event was attended by a variety of dignitaries, including local government officials, educational leaders, parents, and students, all united in their support for this vital initiative.

Ogun Police Command to Launch Safer School Protection Squad

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The Ogun State Police Command has announced plans to inaugurate the Safer School Protection Squad on November 26th and 27th, as part of a national initiative aimed at enhancing the security of schools across Nigeria.

The event is a key aspect of the visionary plan by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, to bolster school safety nationwide.

The two-day event with the theme “Capacity Building for Security Agencies and Other Stakeholders,” will provide valuable insights into the safety measures being implemented in schools across Ogun State.

The initiative is designed to educate key stakeholders on the steps being taken by the Nigerian Police Force to ensure schools are adequately protected. These measures include rapid response teams, regular vehicular patrols, and comprehensive security orientations for school principals, staff, students, and community partners.

The programme will be officially launched by His Excellency,Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, MFR, alongside the Inspector General of Police, the Commissioner of Police for Ogun State, CP Alamutu Abiodun, and the head of the Safer Protection Squad. The event will also feature the presence of sister security agencies, government officials, traditional rulers, and private sector partners.

Members of the public are invited to follow the proceedings via the official police social media channels, with the event set to kick off at 10:00 AM on both days. The event will provide an opportunity for invited guests to engage in discussions, share information, and explore new strategies for improving the safety and security of students in Ogun State and beyond.

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