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Chinese Embassy, NCSP DG Agree to Deepen Nigeria–China Economic, Strategic Ties

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Chinese Embassy, NCSP DG Agree to Deepen Nigeria–China Economic, Strategic Ties

The Director-General of the Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Mr. Joseph Tegbe, has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with China as he hosted a high-powered delegation from the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria.

The delegation was led by the Charge d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy, Mr. Zhou Hongyou, and included the Minister Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs, Mr. Wang Yingqi, alongside other senior embassy officials.

Welcoming the delegation, Tegbe reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the One-China principle and underscored the country’s determination to significantly expand bilateral trade relations. He disclosed Nigeria’s ambition to grow trade volume with China to 350 billion RMB (about $50 billion) by 2030, with Nigerian exports accounting for at least 30 per cent of the total trade volume.

According to him, the target would be driven by the forthcoming zero-tariff policy and a substantial increase in the export of Nigerian agricultural products. Tegbe emphasized that deepened economic collaboration with China remains critical to driving sustainable growth, industrial development, and export competitiveness for Nigerian businesses.

In his remarks, Zhou expressed satisfaction with the growing Nigeria–China relationship and stressed the importance of exploring new opportunities to deepen economic and commercial cooperation. He identified technology, agriculture, and human capacity development as key sectors with strong potential for expanded collaboration.

Zhou expressed optimism that the zero-tariff agreement would unlock significant opportunities for Nigerian exporters, boost bilateral trade volumes, and further consolidate the already strong ties between both countries.

The Chinese Embassy delegation also reaffirmed China’s support for Nigeria’s industrialisation agenda, particularly in steel development and agriculture. They reiterated China’s commitment to ongoing development projects across Nigeria, noting that these efforts align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

On behalf of the Nigerian government and people, Tegbe congratulated the Chinese people ahead of the Chinese Spring Festival marking the Lunar New Year.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening cultural, diplomatic, and economic relations with the People’s Republic of China, with a focus on building a more robust, sustainable, and mutually beneficial partnership.

Sanwo-Olu Seeks Stronger Private Sector Support as Lagos Deepens Technology-Driven Security Network

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Sanwo-Olu Seeks Stronger Private Sector Support as Lagos Deepens Technology-Driven Security Network

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on chief executive officers in Nigeria’s financial and corporate sectors to increase their support for the Lagos State Security Trust Fund,LSSTF, as the state moves to upgrade its security architecture with advanced technology and intelligence systems.

The Governor made the call at a private breakfast meeting organised by the LSSTF for bank CEOs and industry leaders in Lagos, where he said the growing complexity of security threats demands a more robust, technology-driven response.

Sanwo-Olu said Lagos must avoid complacency, noting that the LSSTF’s transparent and accountable public-private partnership model has remained critical to maintaining relative safety in the state for nearly two decades.

He disclosed that the state is currently overhauling its Command and Control Centre, originally built more than 15 years ago, to transform it into a modern operations hub capable of integrating thousands of CCTV feeds, emergency calls, and multi-agency field operations in real time.

According to the Governor, although Lagos initially planned to deploy between 5,000 and 10,000 CCTV cameras, fewer than 1,000 have been installed so far due to funding and technological constraints.

“We need to scale up massively. Cameras have become as important as patrol vehicles. Lagos must not fall behind,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu also revealed that the state is strengthening its aerial surveillance capacity through helicopters, drones, and marine monitoring systems to enhance emergency response, search-and-rescue operations, and security coverage of high-density and waterfront communities.

He stressed that security funding cannot be left solely to government, adding that the private sector benefits directly from a stable and secure business environment. The Governor noted that the Lagos State Government currently provides more than half of the state’s security expenditure, supporting the Nigeria Police, military formations, FRSC, NDLEA, NSCDC and other agencies with vehicles, communication equipment, protective gear, and logistics.

Highlighting Lagos’ rapidly expanding skyline and population, Sanwo-Olu said investment in modern surveillance and intelligence tools has become urgent to protect lives, assets, and infrastructure.

The Governor also introduced the newly appointed Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, describing him as a committed security professional with strong operational and strategic expertise. He praised the continuity and transparency of the LSSTF Board, noting that consistent accountability has sustained donor confidence over the years.

Earlier, Dr. Ogunsan said private sector support remains vital for the LSSTF to meet rising security demands in Lagos. He listed key priorities for 2026 to include multipurpose security helicopters and drones, armoured personnel carriers, water cannons, smart CCTV cameras, digital communication equipment, tactical training, operational vehicles, and infrastructural upgrades for the police.

He urged business leaders to view security as a strategic investment rather than a cost, stressing that a secure environment enables uninterrupted operations, investor confidence, and economic growth.

Dr. Ogunsan also commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his sustained support to the Fund, noting that while the state has contributed significantly to meeting security needs, greater collaboration with the private sector is required to keep Lagos safe and economically resilient.

LASWA Partners CERUD to Establish Coastal Community First Responder Programme

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LASWA Felicitates Waterways Users on Eid-el-Adha, Emphasises Safety Compliance

The Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA, has entered into an inter-agency partnership with the Centre for Rural Development, CERUD, to establish a Coastal Community First Responder Programme aimed at promoting safe and secure transportation across Lagos waterways.

The initiative was unveiled during a meeting between LASWA officials and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development at the Secretariat in Alausa.

Speaking at the meeting, the Head of LASWA’s Health, Safety, Security and Environment (HSSE) Unit, Mr. Olademeji Shittu, said the programme is designed to reduce fatalities and losses on Lagos waterways, empower community volunteers through capacity building for sustainable rural development, and equip participants with relevant skills for employment in the maritime sector.

According to him, the programme will also complement LASWA’s search and rescue operations, particularly in remote coastal areas where emergency response is often delayed.

Mr. Shittu highlighted recurring marine incidents and fatalities on Lagos waterways, noting that coastal communities are usually the first responders in emergencies, hence the need for a structured partnership that formally integrates them into response efforts.

He said when fully operational, the programme is expected to significantly reduce emergency response time, improve survival outcomes and incident reporting, and strengthen collaboration between LASWA and coastal communities.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, expressed the Ministry’s readiness, through CERUD, to partner with LASWA in promoting safer and more secure water transportation in the state.

She noted that the initiative aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration by supporting rural community empowerment through human capacity building, inclusiveness and resilience.

Also speaking, the Director of CERUD, Mr. Musibau Balogun, assured LASWA of the agency’s commitment to supporting the training and empowerment of volunteers under the programme.

Other officials present at the meeting included Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adeniji, Director of Community Services, MLGCA&RD; Mr. Olusola Ajisafe, Director of Public Affairs, CERUD; Mr. Taiwo Babatunde, Assistant Director in the Office of the Permanent Secretary, MLGCA&RD; Mr. Ibrahim Oladayo, Acting Head of Operations, LASWA; and Mr. Murisiq Adegbite, Senior Scientific Officer, LASWA.

LIRS Extends Employers’ Annual Returns Filing Deadline to February 7

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LIRS Extends Employers’ Annual Returns Filing Deadline to February 7

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, LIRS, has extended the deadline for the filing of employers’ annual tax returns by one week, shifting the date from February 1 to February 7, 2026.

The extension was announced in a statement issued on Friday by the Executive Chairman of LIRS, Dr. Ayodele Subair, who explained that the statutory deadline for filing employers’ annual returns is January 31 of every year.

According to Dr. Subair, the decision to grant an extension is aimed at giving employers additional time to complete and submit accurate tax returns, while ensuring full compliance with existing tax regulations.

He stressed the importance of timely filing, noting that tax compliance should be embedded as a routine business practice among employers operating in Lagos State.

The LIRS Chairman also reiterated that electronic filing via the LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual returns, as manual filings have been completely phased out.

Employers are therefore required to submit their returns exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal, which he described as secure, user-friendly and accessible 24 hours a day.

Dr. Subair further advised employers to ensure that the Tax Identification Number (TaxID) of all employees is correctly captured in their submissions to avoid errors and possible penalties.

Why You Should Send Your Money With Ecobank Mobile

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Ecobank Assures Customers of Seamless Banking Services During Easter

By Bolaji Israel

Published by Blacktalker

In today’s fast-paced digital world, convenience has become more than a luxury, it is a necessity. From paying bills and supporting family members to running businesses and handling everyday expenses, people now demand financial services that are fast, reliable and stress-free.

This is where Ecobank Mobile stands out, reshaping how people send and manage money in the digital age.

Designed to fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles, Ecobank Mobile transforms the mobile phone into a complete banking platform, allowing users to send money anytime, anywhere, without the limitations of physical banking halls or long queues.

With just a few taps, users can transfer funds instantly, pay bills, purchase airtime and data, manage accounts, and track transactions in real time. This level of convenience makes it ideal for professionals, entrepreneurs, traders, students and families who need efficient financial solutions that keep pace with their daily routines.

Beyond local transfers, Ecobank Mobile offers access to Ecobank’s extensive pan-African banking network, enabling users to send money across multiple African countries safely and seamlessly.

This cross-border capability makes it especially valuable for individuals and businesses with regional connections, reinforcing Ecobank’s position as a truly African financial institution.

SAFETY IS KEY!
However, when it is time for making money transfers, many bank users are wary of safety.

Statistics can be alarming, with banks and financial institutions reportedly losing approximately ₦17.67 billion to fraud in 2023.

But, good news! Regulatory action and industry collaboration amongst others has contributed a 51 % drop in overall fraud losses in 2025.

Ecobank undertsands this concern and that is why security has been made a core strength of the platform.

With robust digital protection systems, secure authentication processes and encrypted transactions, users can enjoy speed and convenience without compromising the safety of their funds or personal information.

Ecobank Mobile is not limited to transfers alone. The platform integrates multiple services, including bill payments, airtime and data top-ups, cardless ATM withdrawals, digital wallet services and full account management, all within a single application.

This all-in-one approach simplifies financial management and reduces reliance on multiple platforms and physical visits to bank branches.

As digital finance continues to reshape how people live and do business, Ecobank Mobile positions itself not just as a banking tool, but as a lifestyle solution, one that prioritises efficiency, accessibility and reliability.
 
In a world that values speed, simplicity and connectivity, sending money with Ecobank Mobile is no longer just a choice of convenience; it is a smart financial decision.

Customs, Immigration Pledge Stronger Collaboration to Safeguard Officers, Communities in Kebbi

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Customs, Immigration Pledge Stronger Collaboration to Safeguard Officers, Communities in Kebbi

The Customs Area Controller, Kebbi Area Command, Comptroller Mahmoud Matawalle Ibrahim, fdc, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, to strengthened inter-agency collaboration aimed at safeguarding the lives of officers and ensuring the safety of host communities across Kebbi State.

Comptroller Ibrahim gave the assurance on Thursday, January 29, 2026, while receiving the newly posted Comptroller of the Nigerian Immigration Service, NIS, Kebbi State Command, Comptroller Mohammed Lawal Hayatuddeen, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Customs Area Command headquarters.

The visit was aimed at fostering closer cooperation and enhancing operational synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Immigration Service in the state.

Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Hayatuddeen expressed appreciation to the Customs Area Controller for the warm reception accorded to him since his arrival in Kebbi State.

He described the gesture as exemplary, noting that Comptroller Ibrahim was the first security chief to officially welcome him upon his arrival at the airport and to facilitate engagements with other security agencies in the state.

The Immigration Comptroller described Comptroller Ibrahim as humble, approachable, and easy-going, attributes he said have significantly contributed to improved cooperation and mutual understanding among security agencies in Kebbi State.

He urged younger officers to emulate the CAC’s leadership style, professionalism, and conduct, describing him as an experienced and well-educated officer of the Nigeria Customs Service.

He further charged senior officers in both Services to take deliberate responsibility for the welfare of junior officers by mentoring and encouraging them rather than embarrassing or demoralising them.

According to him, maintaining a healthy mental state among officers is critical to enhancing efficiency, productivity, and overall service delivery.

Comptroller Hayatuddeen reaffirmed his commitment to stronger collaboration between the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Nigeria Customs Service, pledging sustained intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation to strengthen border management and enhance national security.

Responding, Comptroller Mahmoud Matawalle Ibrahim stated that the visit was in line with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, which is anchored on collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.

He recalled the loss of lives and service assets suffered by both Services along the Maje axis in Bagudo Local Government Area and commended the improved cooperation and strategic deployments that have since enabled continued operations in the area.

The Customs Area Controller stressed the importance of sustained intelligence sharing, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and effective coordination among all security agencies to strengthen border security and protect national interests.

Comptroller Ibrahim assured the Immigration Service of the Customs Command’s readiness to work closely with all sister security agencies to ensure effective border control, improved officer safety, and the protection of communities within Kebbi State.

Lagos Police Restore Order After Violent Protest Blocks Awolowo Way, Arrest Two

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LLagos Police Confirm Arrests in Double Murder Case, Declare Key Suspects Wanted

The Lagos State Police Command has restored normalcy following a violent protest that blocked Awolowo Way leading to the Lagos State House of Assembly, causing significant disruption to public peace, traffic flow, and access to essential services on Wednesday.

According to a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, the protest, which began at the Ikeja Under Bridge, saw demonstrators carrying a coffin and obstructing the road for over six hours.

The blockade affected medical emergencies, delayed commuters traveling to the airport, and created panic among residents in Alausa and Ikeja.

The police said that while five lawmakers from the Lagos State House of Assembly attempted to engage the protesters and encourage peaceful dialogue, the group, led by Taiwo Hassan, also known as “Soweto,” refused to cooperate and ordered participants to sit on the public highway, further obstructing road users.

To restore order, the police deployed minimum force, including teargas, successfully dispersing the protesters and reopening the road. No injuries or deaths were recorded during the intervention.

Two adults, Taiwo Hassan and Dele Frank, were arrested at the scene for alleged conspiracy, conduct likely to cause a breach of peace, incitement, obstruction of traffic, and other offenses under the Criminal Law of Lagos State.

Authorities also recovered a white Toyota Canta vehicle (Lagos LND 968 YL) equipped with loudspeakers and generators used during the protest, along with the coffin carried by the demonstrators.

The Lagos State Police Command reaffirmed that the measures taken were lawful and necessary to protect public safety and order. SP Adebisi emphasized that while the right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy, it must be exercised peacefully without infringing on the rights of other citizens.

Investigations into the roles of the protest leaders are ongoing at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, with charges expected upon completion.

Ogun Police Crack Child Trafficking Syndicate, Rescue 7 Children, Arrest 5 Suspects

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blacktalker
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Ogun Police Dismiss Curfew Rumours, Assure Residents of Safety

Ogun State Police Command has successfully dismantled a child trafficking and illegal surrogacy syndicate, rescuing seven children and arresting five key suspects in a major breakthrough against human exploitation.

Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Lanre Ogunlowo explained that investigations revealed that the syndicate was selling babies at the alarming rate of ₦1.5 million per child.

The operation, conducted by the State Criminal Investigation Department’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, followed the transfer of the case from Idanyin Divisional Headquarters. It began after the reported abduction of six-year-old Samuel Honesty on 28 November 2025.

The abducted child was later found at Gowon Police Station, Lagos State, on 21 January 2026 and identified the Joyful Kids Orphanage in Badagry, operated by 36-year-old Joy Chiedozie, also known as Madam Joy.

Acting on the intelligence, operatives raided the orphanage, rescuing six additional children, Ramsey Chiedozie (8), Rafael Rofiu (6), Kazeem Chiedozie (6), Segun Uthman (9), Ola Abdulhakeem Abdulrasheed (9), and David Oyelese (9). Samuel Honesty was safely reunited with his mother, bringing relief to the family.

During the raid, two pregnant women, Tanimola Martins (18) and Favour Martins (18), revealed that they were recruited to carry pregnancies intended for sale to pre-arranged buyers.

Madam Joy confessed to buying the abducted child for ₦1.5 million, partially paying the sum via cash and bank transfer to an accomplice known as Kelly, before selling the child to a man identified as Mr. Emmanuel, who remains at large.

Other suspects arrested include Yusuf Adebowale (31), the orphanage driver and uncertified surrogate agent, along with Martins Favour (18), Tanimola Martins (18), and Rachael Chiedozie (16). The rescued children have been placed under the protective custody of the Ogun State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development for welfare assessment and family tracing.

CP Ogunlowo noted that investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional suspects, trace financial transactions, and dismantle the wider trafficking network.

According to him, Ogun State Police Command reiterated its zero tolerance for child trafficking and illegal adoption, urging the public to report suspicious orphanage operations and human trafficking activities to the nearest police station.

“The Command remains fully committed to protecting vulnerable citizens and upholding the rule of law,” the CP said.

LSSTF Donates Operational Vehicle to NCCSALW South West, Boosts Regional Security Efforts

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LSSTF Donates Operational Vehicle to NCCSALW South West, Boosts Regional Security Efforts

The Lagos State Security Trust Fund, LSSTF has strengthened its support for national security in the South West region through the strategic donation of an operational vehicle to the National Centre for Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons, NCCSALW, South West Zone.

The handover, which took place at the LSSTF office in Alausa, Ikeja, was presented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Degbola Lewis, on behalf of the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan. The donation was formally received by the Zonal Director of NCCSALW South West, CP Abiodun Alamutu (rtd), alongside members of the Centre’s management team, including ACP Ibrahim Akinniyi and Major Dasi Obanla, Assistant Directors.

Speaking during the ceremony, Mr. Lewis reaffirmed LSSTF’s commitment to supporting security agencies whose work directly impacts public safety and internal security. “This gesture reflects our dedication to strengthening the operational capacity of federal institutions tackling critical security challenges across Lagos and the South West,” he said.

CP Alamutu lauded the funding agency for the timely intervention, describing the donation as a significant boost to the Centre’s mandate. “This vehicle will enhance our mobility, operational efficiency, and capacity to coordinate anti-illicit arms initiatives across the region,” he noted.

The NCCSALW, operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), is tasked with coordinating national efforts to prevent, combat, and eradicate the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons. Its responsibilities include policy formulation, arms control enforcement, research, and fostering inter-agency collaboration to strengthen national and regional security.

Oyo/Osun Customs Records ₦86.2bn Revenue in 2025

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Oyo/Osun Customs Records ₦86.2bn Revenue in 2025

Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS has recorded major operational breakthroughs, including the seizure of contraband items valued at over ₦2.7 billion and the collection of ₦86.29 billion in revenue for the 2025 fiscal year.

Acting Customs Area Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Wale Moses Adewole, disclosed this during his maiden press briefing for 2026, where he highlighted the Command’s achievements in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and economic protection.

Adewole said that within one month of his assumption of office, the Command made significant seizures with a cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦2,701,762,558.00. The seized items included 2,234 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 1,112 used tyres, 562 kegs of premium motor spirit, 124 bales of used clothes, 42 sacks of used shoes, 110 cartons of foreign spaghetti, 150 used compressors, and 107 cartons of pharmaceutical products.

Other seizures included 37 wraps of cannabis sativa, codeine syrup, tramadol, as well as several “tokunbo” vehicles comprising Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Jeep, Chevrolet EQ, and Mercedes GLE. The Command also intercepted means of conveyance used for smuggling, including a Volvo truck, a Volkswagen bus, and three J5 vehicles.

According to Adewole, the seizures were made at various flashpoints across the Command’s area of responsibility through credible intelligence, sustained patrols, and strategic enforcement operations.

In the area of revenue generation, the Acting Controller revealed that the Command generated ₦8.37 billion in December 2025 alone. He added that the Command surpassed its annual revenue target for 2025, recording a total collection of ₦86,297,581,081.00, exceeding the target by ₦13.13 billion, representing a 15.22 per cent increase.

He attributed the performance to improved compliance, effective monitoring, and the dedication of officers to lawful trade facilitation.

Reaffirming the Command’s stance on enforcement, Adewole said the Oyo/Osun Area Command maintains zero tolerance for smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage, noting that collaboration with sister security agencies and engagement with stakeholders would be sustained to safeguard national economic security.

He also warned smugglers and other unpatriotic elements to desist from illegal activities, stressing that the Command would not relent in carrying out its statutory responsibilities.

Adewole expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his leadership and support, and commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Abiodun Makinde, for his support towards the Command’s operations. He also thanked stakeholders and the media for their cooperation and role in informing the public.

The Acting Controller reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to transparency, enforcement, and service delivery in line with the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.

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