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IGP Disu Visits LSSTF Headquarters, Credits Trust Fund for RRS Success

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IGP Disu Visits LSSTF Headquarters, Credits Trust Fund for RRS Success

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has paid a historic visit to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, where he credited the agency’s support as a major factor behind his success as former Commander of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS.

The visit, hosted by the Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, Ayo Ogunsan, highlighted the growing collaboration between security agencies and community-driven support systems in Lagos.

Speaking during the engagement, Disu described the LSSTF as a model institution that has significantly enhanced policing effectiveness in Lagos and beyond.

Reflecting on his time as RRS Commander, he noted that the operational support provided by the Trust Fund—including vehicles, equipment, and logistics, allowed him to focus on core policing duties.

“LSSTF made our jobs very easy. When the tools and resources are available, success becomes inevitable,” he said, adding that as much as 70 per cent of the achievements recorded during his tenure with the RRS were made possible through the Fund’s intervention.

The police chief also called for sustained support for the Lagos State Police Command, citing the state’s strategic importance and rising population. He urged stakeholders to continue investing in security infrastructure, including operational vehicles and aerial surveillance.

In his remarks, Ogunsan praised the IGP’s leadership style, describing it as one that balances enforcement with community engagement. He reaffirmed LSSTF’s commitment to supporting security agencies but raised concerns over declining funding contributions.

“We need more support to sustain what we are doing. Security is a collective responsibility, and LSSTF remains a critical platform for collaboration,” he said, appealing for increased private sector participation.

The visit drew commendations from members of the LSSTF board and private sector stakeholders, who pledged continued support for both the Trust Fund and the Nigeria Police Force.

Among dignitaries present were the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh; the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Tijani Fatai; and other senior officers.

The meeting also featured symbolic exchanges of souvenirs between the IGP and LSSTF leadership, underscoring mutual respect and a shared commitment to strengthening security in Lagos.

The LSSTF has long been regarded as a leading example of public-private partnership in security funding, providing critical support to law enforcement agencies in Nigeria’s commercial capital.

World Malaria Day: SUNU Health Unveils Roadmap to Tackle Disease Burden, Push Preventive Care

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World Malaria Day: SUNU Health Unveils Roadmap to Tackle Disease Burden, Push Preventive Care

SUNU Health Nigeria Limited has unveiled a comprehensive strategic roadmap aimed at achieving a malaria-free Nigeria, with a strong emphasis on preventive healthcare and expanded access to health insurance.

The initiative, announced as part of activities marking World Malaria Day 2026, highlights the urgent need to shift from reactive treatment to proactive disease management in addressing one of Nigeria’s most persistent public health challenges.

Speaking during the unveiling, the Chief Operating Officer of SUNU Health, Dr. Faith Nwachi, stressed that malaria eradication is achievable through coordinated action by individuals, institutions, and government.

“Eradication is within our reach if we synchronize our efforts,” she said, noting that simple preventive measures such as environmental hygiene and consistent use of treated mosquito nets remain critical tools in the fight against malaria.

The roadmap comes against the backdrop of rising malaria cases across the country. According to recent data, Nigeria recorded over 24.5 million confirmed cases within the first nine months of 2025, with the disease accounting for about 30 per cent of child mortality and 11 per cent of maternal deaths annually.

SUNU Health noted that malaria continues to place a heavy burden on the nation’s healthcare system, contributing to nearly 30 per cent of hospital admissions and significantly impacting productivity due to lost man-hours and rising treatment costs.

Central to the organisation’s strategy is a stronger focus on prevention, which it describes as more cost-effective than treatment. The company warned that frequent malaria infections often lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses for families, further straining household finances.

To address this, SUNU Health is advocating for broader adoption of Health Maintenance Organisation (HMO) plans as a sustainable solution. The organisation said managed healthcare systems provide a safety net that enables Nigerians to access preventive services without facing immediate financial pressure.

The company also called for increased collaboration among corporate organisations, government agencies, and the public to embed preventive practices into everyday life.

As part of its long-term vision, SUNU Health reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders across the healthcare ecosystem to reduce malaria prevalence and improve overall national wellbeing, positioning prevention and structured healthcare access as key pillars in the journey toward a malaria-free Nigeria.

Recruitment: Lagos Candidates to Sit Written Exam at Police College Ikeja as PSC Warns Against Scams

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Recruitment: Lagos Candidates to Sit Written Exam at Police College Ikeja as PSC Warns Against Scams

The Police College Ikeja has been designated as the venue for the 2026 police recruitment written examination in Lagos, as the Police Service Commission fix April 28 to 30 for the nationwide exercise.

The examination, which will be conducted across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, is strictly for applicants who successfully passed the physical and credentials screening stage of the recruitment process.

Eligible candidates have been directed to access the official recruitment portal from April 24, 2026, to print their examination invitation cards, which contain details of their specific date, time, and venue.

Applicants are expected to come to the examination centre with a pen, their National Identification Number (NIN) slip with a clear photograph issued by the National Identity Management Commission, and a printed copy of their examination invitation card. The approved dress code is white shorts, white T-shirt, and white canvas.

Reiterating its stance on transparency, the Commission warned that the recruitment process is entirely free, cautioning candidates against job racketeering, scams, or any form of financial inducement.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani, urged all candidates in the state to comply strictly with the guidelines, arrive early at the venue, and maintain orderly conduct throughout the examination period.

World Malaria Day: Ogun Police Partner The Life Projects for Free Medical Outreach

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World Malaria Day: Ogun Police Partner The Life Projects for Free Medical Outreach

The Ogun State Police Command has partnered with The Life Projects to deliver a free medical outreach in commemoration of World Malaria Day 2026, providing essential healthcare services to officers and their families in Abeokuta.

The outreach, held on April 24, 2026, at the Police Officers’ Mess, Ibara, Abeokuta, was themed “Driven to end malaria; Now we can. Now we must,” and focused on tackling the burden of Malaria through prevention, testing, and treatment.

Beneficiaries at the event received free medical consultations, malaria parasite tests, anti-malarial medications, and Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets. The programme also featured health education sessions aimed at promoting environmental hygiene and preventive practices within police barracks and surrounding communities.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, said the initiative reflects the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to the “Health is Wealth” principle, noting that a healthy workforce is critical to effective policing and public safety.

He commended The Life Projects and its partners for their contribution to improving community health, describing the collaboration as a vital step toward safeguarding the wellbeing of officers and enhancing service delivery across the state.

The outreach forms part of broader efforts to raise awareness and reduce the prevalence of malaria, particularly among frontline personnel who play a key role in maintaining security and community stability.

Dangote, Fidelity, CRMI Leaders Strengthen Risk Management Collaboration in Lagos

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Dangote, Fidelity, CRMI Leaders Strengthen Risk Management Collaboration in Lagos

Key stakeholders in Nigeria’s risk management and financial services sector have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening professional standards and institutional collaboration, following a high-level courtesy visit in Lagos.

The delegation included Kenneth Irabor, Head of Risk Management at Dangote Cement; Pontsho B. Mokoena, Group Chief Risk Officer at Dangote Group; and Kevin Ugwuoke, President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria and Executive Director, Risk Management at Fidelity Bank Nigeria Plc.

They were received by Victor Olannye, Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria, during the visit held recently in Lagos.

The engagement provided an opportunity for discussions around advancing enterprise risk management practices, deepening professional capacity, and enhancing collaboration between industry players and regulatory institutions.

Participants emphasized the growing importance of risk management in navigating complex economic and operational environments, particularly within Nigeria’s evolving financial and industrial sectors. They also highlighted the need for continuous knowledge exchange, adherence to global best practices, and the development of skilled professionals to strengthen organizational resilience.

The visit underscores ongoing efforts by leading institutions to promote structured risk governance frameworks and support the growth of the risk management profession in Nigeria.

AIG Jimoh Visits Western Naval Command, Seeks Stronger Maritime Security Collaboration in Lagos

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AIG Jimoh Visits Western Naval Command, Seeks Stronger Maritime Security Collaboration in Lagos

The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2 Command, Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, has reinforced the need for deeper inter-agency collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, following a strategic courtesy visit to the Western Naval Command in Lagos.

The visit, which took place on April 24, 2026, saw the AIG engage with the Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, AA Mustapha, at the Naval Base in Apapa, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen operational synergy in the coastal and maritime domain.

During the meeting, AIG Jimoh underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Navy, particularly in intelligence sharing, joint operations, and maritime security.

He noted that the maritime sector remains a critical component of Nigeria’s economy and requires coordinated security efforts to safeguard national assets and prevent criminal activities.

He further stressed that effective policing in coastal regions demands seamless cooperation among security agencies, especially in tackling emerging threats such as smuggling, piracy, and other transnational crimes.

In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha commended the AIG for the visit and reiterated the Navy’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Police.

He assured that the Western Naval Command remains ready to collaborate in ensuring peace, stability, and security across the maritime environment.

The engagement highlights renewed efforts by the Zone 2 Command to deepen strategic alliances with sister security agencies, with a view to enhancing coordinated responses to security challenges and ensuring a safer environment for residents and businesses in Lagos and beyond.

MasterChef Nigeria Debuts April 26, Sets Stage to Crown First-Ever Winner

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MasterChef Nigeria Debuts April 26, Sets Stage to Crown First-Ever Winner

Nigeria’s culinary scene is set for a major milestone as MasterChef Nigeria premieres on Sunday, April 26, 2026, marking the beginning of the journey to crown the country’s first-ever winner of the globally renowned cooking competition.

The show will air at 7 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, alongside a live online watch party streamed on YouTube, allowing audiences across Nigeria to follow the competition in real time.

Organisers said the debut season will feature 10 contestants selected from across the country, representing a diverse mix of culinary talent, creativity, and passion. The participants will compete in a series of high-pressure challenges designed to test their technical skills, innovation, and resilience.

At stake is a grand prize of ₦73 million and the historic title of Nigeria’s first MasterChef winner.

The show, produced by Primedia Group, aims to showcase Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage while blending traditional flavours with modern cooking techniques.

Judging the competition are renowned chefs Chef Stone and Chef Eros, who will evaluate contestants’ performances throughout the series.

Chef Stone said viewers should expect bold, creative dishes that reflect Nigerian identity, while Chef Eros described the competition as intense and a true display of the country’s culinary depth.

The programme is supported by several corporate sponsors, including Power Oil, Indomie, Dano Milk, Malta Guinness, Sonia Tomato, Kiara Rice, and the Golden Penny brand.

Spanning 13 episodes, the show will air weekly on Sundays, with repeat broadcasts scheduled for Wednesdays and Thursdays on Africa Magic channels.

Industry watchers say the launch of MasterChef Nigeria represents a significant boost for the country’s creative and entertainment sectors, while also spotlighting the growing global appeal of Nigerian cuisine.

Viewers have been encouraged to tune in, support their favourite contestants, and be part of what organisers describe as a historic moment for food and entertainment in Nigeria.

Customs Oyo/Osun Command Conducts Medical Outreach for Personnel

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Customs Oyo/Osun Command Conducts Medical Outreach for Personnel

The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has organised a medical outreach for its officers and men as part of efforts to enhance personnel welfare and operational efficiency.

The exercise, carried out under the leadership of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Moses Adewole, targeted officers across patrol teams and outstations within the Command.

According to the Command, the outreach was implemented through its Medical Unit to promote the health and wellbeing of personnel, recognising that optimal performance is closely tied to sound physical and mental health.

The medical team, led by Assistant Comptroller Jamila Ukpo, conducted comprehensive check-ups and provided basic healthcare services during visits to key outstations and patrol bases. The exercise, which commenced on April 20, concluded on April 24, 2026.

Officials said the initiative reflects the Command’s commitment to maintaining high standards of service delivery by ensuring that officers remain fit to carry out their statutory responsibilities.

The Command added that it would continue to prioritise programmes that support the welfare, morale, and productivity of its personnel in the discharge of their duties.

Fidelity Bank Holds Masterclasses on Pricing, Digital Sales, Global Expansion for SMEs

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Fidelity Bank Holds Masterclasses on Pricing, Digital Sales, Global Expansion for SMEs

Fidelity Bank Plc has intensified its support for small and medium enterprises, SMEs with a series of high-impact masterclasses aimed at strengthening business capacity, improving profitability, and expanding market opportunities.

The training sessions, held throughout April 2026, are part of the bank’s broader strategy to empower entrepreneurs with practical, hands-on skills to navigate Nigeria’s evolving business landscape.

The first session, titled “Pricing That Works: How to Charge Right and Earn More,” took place on April 10 at the Fidelity SME Hub in Gbagada, Lagos, attracting about 100 participants from various sectors.

The masterclass focused on key business fundamentals such as costing, value-based pricing, pricing psychology, and customer perception, areas widely recognised as critical challenges for SMEs.

Following positive feedback from participants, the bank rolled out additional sessions, including a two-day “Baking Masterclass: From Kitchen to Cashflow,” held on April 14 and 15. The practical training targeted bakers and food entrepreneurs, equipping them with techniques to improve product quality, consistency, and revenue generation.

Speaking on the initiative, Divisional Head, SME Banking at Fidelity Bank, Ugochi Osinigwe, said the programme reflects the bank’s commitment to driving economic growth through enterprise development.

“At Fidelity Bank, we believe that when SMEs succeed, the economy grows. These masterclasses are designed to provide practical skills that entrepreneurs can apply immediately to improve their businesses,” she said.

Osinigwe added that the initiative goes beyond training, forming part of a wider ecosystem of support that includes access to funding, market opportunities, and business advisory services delivered through the Fidelity SME Hub and other programmes nationwide.

The bank has also lined up additional sessions for the month, including “Grow Online Sales on a Budget,” scheduled for April 24, which will focus on leveraging cost-effective digital tools to increase visibility and sales.

The series will conclude with “Take Your Business Global: One-on-One Trade Advisory” on April 29, offering SME owners personalised guidance on export readiness, cross-border transactions, and compliance requirements for international trade.

Industry observers note that initiatives such as these are critical in addressing the capacity gaps faced by Nigerian SMEs, particularly in areas of pricing, digital transformation, and global competitiveness.

Sterling Bank, Partners Launch Nationwide Cleanup Initiative to Boost Climate Action

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Sterling Bank, Partners Launch Nationwide Cleanup Initiative to Boost Climate Action

Sterling Bank, in collaboration with Sterling One Foundation and other partners, has unveiled plans for a nationwide environmental exercise tagged The Great Nigeria Cleanup.

Some the partners are Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, Sunbeth.

The initiative, scheduled for April 25, 2026, will be implemented across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, mobilising volunteers and stakeholders in states including Lagos, Abuja, Ogun, Osun, Cross River, Delta, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, Imo, Sokoto, Kano, Benue, Plateau, Kogi, and Katsina.

Organisers said the programme aligns with the United Nations Decade of Action and is designed to promote community-driven solutions to environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution and poor waste management.

Speaking on the initiative, Chief Operating Officer of Sterling Bank, Temitayo Adegoke, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in addressing environmental issues.

According to her, the cleanup campaign presents an opportunity for individuals and institutions to come together to build a culture of environmental responsibility that extends beyond the event.

Also speaking, Chief Executive Officer of the Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, described the initiative as a movement focused on dignity, wellbeing, and shared ownership of the environment.

She noted that the campaign goes beyond sanitation, stressing that it seeks to empower citizens to take responsibility for their surroundings while contributing to long-term environmental sustainability.

Stakeholders say the initiative comes at a critical time as Nigeria continues to grapple with growing environmental challenges, including urban pollution and ineffective waste management systems.

They added that the collaboration between the private sector, government agencies, and community volunteers reflects a coordinated approach to achieving lasting environmental impact.

Organisers have called on Nigerians to actively participate in the cleanup exercise, describing it as a collective effort to build a cleaner and healthier environment nationwide.