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Symphony of Praise and Worship Ushers Hope, Unity for Nigerians

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Symphony of Praise and Worship Ushers Hope, Unity for Nigerians

Hundreds of worshippers and gospel enthusiasts gathered in Lagos for the Symphony of Praise and Worship, SPAW, an event that celebrated faith, music, and hope amid ongoing challenges across the country.

The convener, Dr. (Mrs.) Ajoke Ogunsa, also known as Drajokesings, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for making the event possible, while acknowledging the presence of distinguished guests, including the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his wife, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, among others.

“Today is a time of joy, a time of happiness, a time to rejoice and be glad,” Dr. Adjoke said. “Whatever the situation in the country, we must continue to give thanks. I believe today will bring testimonies and miracles for many.”

Drajokesings described the symphony as a “strategically organized combination of different elements” aimed at uniting people through worship. She urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith and assured participants that continued praise and prayer would bring blessings to individuals, communities, and the nation.

The symphony featured a diverse lineup of gospel artists, including Lilian Nneji and Beejay Sax, who delivered energetic praise sessions described as “effortless and by the grace of God.” Participants said the music and worship provided a sense of hope, encouragement, and communal strength.

Lilian Nneji emphasized the importance of prayer and praise in Nigeria’s current context, noting that “if you take away praise, if you take away church from this country, nothing is left.” She highlighted that the body of Christ and gatherings such as the symphony provide Nigerians with solace and strength.

On his part, Beejay Sax shared his reflections on the event, calling it “an amazing time” and describing the symphony as “a combination of different things, organized strategically.” He emphasized that in Nigeria’s current context, “it’s only God that can help us, and it’s our duty to always praise God. When we praise God, God blesses us.”

On the occasion, Beejay Sax also extended his best wishes for the coming year: “This is an amazing one. Keep it up. God help you, God strengthen you. More grace in your ministry in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Reflecting on Christmas, he said, “Christmas is about Jesus. It’s the reason for the season. Give your life to Christ and God bless you.” He further urged artists to “feed your soul with the right things that you bring out outwardly,” emphasizing the spiritual responsibility of gospel musicians.

The symphony concluded with a message of hope and encouragement for the new year, calling on attendees to maintain faith, rejoice, and continue to serve God diligently.

SOLUDO COMMISSIONS PROTOCOL LOUNGE AT CHINỤA ACHEBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, UMUERI

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GOVERNOR SOLUDO COMMISSIONS PROTOCOL LOUNGE AT CHINỤA ACHEBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, UMUERI -Christian ABURIME

In a bold move to enhance Anambra State’s aviation landscape, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the state’s aviation infrastructure.

The Governor, who spoke at the commissioning of a new Protocol Lounge at Chinụa Achebe International Airport in Umueri, said it is part of a multi-phased plan to upgrade facilities, streamline passenger experience, and attract both regional and international air traffic.

According to Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Governor Soludo reiterated that modernising aviation infrastructure is a critical pillar of his administration’s development agenda, emphasising job creation, skills development, and increased air connectivity as core benefits.

He remarked that, “by upgrading our airport infrastructure and delivering a world-class Protocol Lounge, we are not only improving passenger experience but also signalling to investors that Anambra is open for business. This is about jobs, growth, and sustainable development for our people.”

He also stressed the importance of collaboration with federal authorities and international aviation partners to ensure compliance with global standards and best practices.

Aburime added that the newly commissioned Protocol Lounge at Chinụa Achebe International Airport is intended to provide a secure, comfortable, and efficient space for visiting dignitaries, government officials, and high-profile travellers. The facility features dedicated check-in areas, executive seating, exclusive waiting rooms, and enhanced security protocols.

Local officials and stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Transportation, Barr. Patricia Igwebuike said the upgraded airport facilities are expected to boost commerce, tourism, and investment in Umueri and the broader Anambra State.

Chinụa Achebe International Airport, located in Umueri, has long been a focal point for the region’s aviation ambitions. The new Protocol Lounge adds to a set of modernisation efforts aimed at aligning Anambra State with contemporary international aviation standards.

Nigeria-China: Kaduna Delegation Engages Top Agribusiness Firms in Beijing

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Nigeria-China: Kaduna Delegation Engages Top Agribusiness Firms in Beijing

Nigeria’s agricultural cooperation with China has received a significant boost as a high-level delegation led by the Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, and the Director-General of the Nigeria–China Strategic Partnership, NCSP, Mr Joseph Tegbe, commenced strategic engagements with leading livestock and agribusiness organisations in Beijing.

The delegation visited Beijing Doudian Yisheng Halal Meat Industry Co., Ltd, and CP Food Layers and Eggs Ltd, two major players in China’s livestock and poultry industry.

The visits, according to officials, form part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to enhance livestock development and expand agro-industrial capacity across Kaduna State and the country.

The engagements build on NCSP’s earlier meetings with DQY Ecological Farm, a subsidiary of China Communications Construction Company Group, regarded as one of China’s most advanced agricultural technology platforms.

Officials said the mission focused on technical cooperation, investment commitments, and the development of long-term business frameworks that will drive sustainable agricultural expansion in Nigeria.

The Partnership explained that the engagement aligns with the Federal Government’s priorities on food security, agricultural industrialisation, and foreign investment within President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

A major focus of the partnership is the landmark USD $200 million National Integrated Poultry Development Project, whose pilot phase is being established in Kaduna State ahead of nationwide rollout across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The initiative is projected to evolve into one of West Africa’s most technologically advanced poultry enterprises, with the capacity to lower the domestic cost of eggs and poultry products through large-scale, efficient production.

Projections indicate that the Kaduna pilot could generate more than USD $450 million annually and create over 350,000 direct and indirect jobs along Nigeria’s poultry value chain. Analysts say the initiative will significantly strengthen food production, accelerate agro-industrialisation and enhance export competitiveness, thereby contributing to national economic diversification.

The delegation expressed appreciation to the People’s Republic of China for its sustained support and growing interest in Nigeria’s agricultural transformation. Chinese institutions engaged during the visit signalled commitment to expanding investment and technology cooperation in support of Nigeria’s food security agenda.

The NCSP reiterated that it remains committed to advancing strategic bilateral cooperation that strengthens Nigeria–China relations and unlocks new opportunities for agricultural modernisation and inclusive economic growth across the country.

Time-Out-With-Kate 3.0 Explores Building Transgenerational Businesses in Lagos

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Time-Out-With-Kate 3.0 Explores Building Transgenerational Businesses in Lagos

More than 250 entrepreneurs, business owners, and senior executives last week converged in Ikeja, Lagos, for the 2025 Time-Out-With-Kate.

This is a capacity-building conference designed to equip emerging and established business leaders with strategies for enterprise sustainability and long-term wealth creation.

The conference, now in its third year, was convened by entrepreneur and business leader, Dr (Mrs) Catherine Opeyemi Adesomoju, popularly known as Sister Kate.

The event attracted leading voices in business, leadership, and family life to discuss the theme, “Building Transgenerational Businesses.”

Sister Kate, who is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Spectrum Holdings and a board member of His Presence Foundation, is widely known for her work in entrepreneurship development and Christian ministry.

Spectrum Holdings, parent company to Spectrum Innovation Technologies and Spectrum Phones, presently employs over 200 workers and operates across Nigeria and parts of Africa.

Delivering the keynote address titled “From Rich to Wealthy: Building Transgenerational Wealth,” Sister Kate distinguished between short-term prosperity and long-term enterprise sustainability. She explained that while many individuals focus on revenue and image, true wealth requires vision, structure, systems, and values that outlive the founder.

She urged business owners to shift focus “from short-term cash to sustainable capital, corporate governance and purposeful creation,” emphasising accountability, planning, and God-guided leadership.

She noted that building transgenerational wealth requires entrepreneurs to “start with value, systemize processes, scale responsibly, develop successors and ensure sustainability,” adding that businesses that ignore succession planning risk reverting to survival mode after a founder’s exit.

Speakers at the conference included leadership strategist Niyi Adesanya and Goke and Abimbola Balogun, co-founders of the SoFresh chain. Other facilitators were Prof. Folu Olatona, Dr Abiola Salami, and Mrs Yomi Adewale.

In his remarks, Mr Adesanya echoed the need for succession-oriented enterprise models, saying wealth transfer is impossible without deliberate planning, systems, and leadership that transcend personalities.

The conference was fully sponsored by His Presence Foundation, a humanitarian initiative responsible for educational scholarships, business grants, women-owned SME support, and charitable interventions across communities.

Dr Adesomoju, a graduate of Business Administration from the University of Ilorin and alumnus of Lagos Business School and Harvard Business School (OPM 58), holds a fellowship of the Institute of Business and Knowledge Management (FIBAKM) and an honorary doctorate in Corporate Leadership and Entrepreneurship Management. She is married to Mr Akindeji Adesomoju, Chairman of Spectrum Holdings.

GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES LASU 13TH GOVERNING COUNCIL

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GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU INAUGURATES LASU 13TH GOVERNING COUNCIL

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, 9th December 2025, formally inaugurated the newly appointed Chairman and members of the Lagos State University 13th Governing Council at Lagos House, Ikeja.

The event, which brought together senior state officials and members of the management of Lagos State University, LASU, marked a significant step in the state government’s efforts to strengthen higher education governance.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page, the Governor, Mr Sanwo-Olu, noted that LASU plays a central role in shaping the future of young people and enhancing the state’s academic reputation.

“I shared my confidence in their ability to guide the university with integrity, focus, and a clear commitment to excellence,” Governor Sanwo-Olu wrote, emphasising the importance of strong leadership in the institution.

The Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, in his remarks, congratulated the newly appointed Chairman and members of the 13th Governing Council, noting that their academic qualifications, exposure and experience were among the qualities considered in their selection.

He expressed confidence that, judging by the composition of the Governing Council, the Lagos State University will continue to deepen the culture of academic excellence.

Among those in attendance were the Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN; Secretary to the State Government, Barr. ‘Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, and the Head of Service, Mr Olabode Agoro.

Also present were the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello; her Deputies, Prof. Oseni Afisi and Prof. Oluwatoyin Enikuomehin; and the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Mr Emmanuel Fanu.

The Governor personally congratulated Mr Babatunde Ogala, SAN, on his appointment as Chairman of the Governing Council, while other members were sworn in and took the oath of office before him.

The new Council is expected to steer LASU through strategic initiatives aimed at improving educational standards, expanding research output, and enhancing student welfare.

Coalition Condemn Crackdown on Senegal Water Workers Ahead Human Rights Day

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Coalition Condemn Crackdown on Senegal Water Workers Ahead Human Rights Day

As the world prepares to mark International Human Rights Day on Tuesday, the Our Water Our Right Africa Coalition, OWORAC, Public Services International, PSI, and Corporate Accountability have condemned what they describe as an escalating wave of repression in Senegal’s water sector, targeting union leaders and workers.

In a statement issued today, the organisations accused the management of the Senegalese water company, SEN’EAU, of sustained intimidation against Comrade Oumar BA, General Secretary of the Autonomous Union of Water Workers of Senegal, SATES and a member of the coalition.

They alleged that the actions amount to a violation of fundamental labour rights and international conventions on trade union freedoms.

OWORAC, PSI, and Corporate Accountability therefore called on SEN’EAU and the Senegalese authorities to immediately stop all punitive measures against the union leader and to respect legitimate union representation.

The coalition explained that the latest development followed Comrade BA’s objection to the company’s attempt to negotiate a multi-year agreement with three unions, while excluding SATES. SATES is challenging the process in court, insisting that a digital voting exercise used in the election of company union representatives was illegal, lacked transparency, and contravened Senegalese labour legislation.

“For simply refusing to accept these irregularities, Comrade BA now faces illegitimate sanctions,” the statement noted.

The organisations further alleged that SEN’EAU is effectively controlled by French multinational water corporation, Suez, “which contributes to a huge power imbalance between workers and management.”

The organisations linked the development to the global theme of International Human Rights Day 2025—Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials, stressing that water access remains one of the most fundamental rights. “A day dedicated to everyday essentials cannot be meaningfully observed where workers are punished for exercising the very rights the day is meant to honour,” they argued.

They warned that the situation exposed the vulnerability of human rights when essential public services were controlled by private interests with limited accountability.

The coalition also revealed that Comrade BA embarked on a hunger strike on November 28 following what it called years of harassment by the company. It stated that his situation reflected wider frustration within SEN’EAU and growing fears that workers’ rights and safety were being compromised.

According to the statement, the internal crisis is consistent with public complaints of poor water services, rising costs, and distrust under the privatised water regime, not only in Dakar but also in other privately-run water facilities across the country.

OWORAC and its partners noted that the expiration of major rural water contracts in 2027 and 2028 offered Senegal an opportunity to “recalibrate its water governance” towards accountability and community-centred decision-making.

The organisations reaffirmed their solidarity with SATES and with all water workers in Senegal “who refuse to surrender their rights to processes designed to suppress democratic participation.”

They urged Senegal to immediately end all disciplinary actions against Comrade BA, withdraw threats and intimidation against water workers and cancel the disputed digital election

They insisted that any new procedures must comply with Senegalese labour laws and guarantee transparent dialogue with legitimately elected representatives, including SATES.

The statement also demanded medical attention and improved protection for Comrade BA, stressing that his health had become “a matter of national and moral concern” as the crisis deepened.

Olugbodi Family Announces Passing of Patriarch, Chief Joshua Oyedele Olugbodi

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Olugbodi Family Announces Passing of Patriarch, Chief Joshua Oyedele Olugbodi

The Olugbodi family of Ara Kingdom in Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State has announced the passing of their patriarch, Chief Joshua Oyedele Olugbodi.

Chief Olugbodi, a respected community leader, financial expert and former senior executive of the Central Bank of Nigeria, died on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the age of 94.

A prominent figure in public service and grassroots development, Chief Olugbodi served as the Bobagunwa of Ara and also held office as Chairman of Egbedore Local Government, where he was widely recognised for his commitment to community upliftment.

He is survived by his wife, Grace Olabisi, as well as children and grandchildren.

Speaking on behalf of the family, one of his children, Dr. Tunji Olugbodi, Executive Vice Chairman of Verdant Zeal Communications Ltd and the Asiwaju of Ara, expressed grief at the loss.

“We are devastated by the death of Baba and we are sad to see him go, but we are grateful to God for his life of sacrifice, impact and exemplary service to mankind,” he said.

Burial arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.

Summit University Chancellor Attributes National Development to Investment in Quality Education

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Summit University Chancellor Attributes National Development to Investment in Quality Education

Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, and Chairman of Rite Foods Limited, Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, OFR, has reaffirmed that sustained investment in quality education remains a major driver of socio-economic development.

He made the statement while addressing guests at the combined 5th and 6th convocation ceremony of the institution, held at the Alhaja Adiat Abegbe Makanjuola Lecture Theatre.

Dr. Adegunwa, who assumed office as the pioneer Chancellor in December 2023, commended the dedication and financial commitment of stakeholders, noting that their support has significantly strengthened the university’s foundation and overall growt.

He appealed to well-meaning Nigerians to contribute to the university’s development efforts.

“This event marks a key milestone for our university. It honours our graduates and celebrates our shared success,” he said. “An investment in knowledge pays the best dividend.

”The journey we have embarked upon with Summit University stands as one of the most rewarding investments. Our dividend from this investment is not only for today; it is also for posterity.”

The Chancellor highlighted the strides the university has made within the past year, revealing that its undergraduate programmes have grown from eight to 16. He notedadded that six programmes recently underwent reaccreditation, all securing full accreditation from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

He also praised the University Management, Governing Council and Board of Trustees for their commitment. “The growth we see today is a testament to your hard work and strategic planning,” he said.

On infrastructure, Dr. Adegunwa announced that four major building projects had been initiated since the last convocation in 2023. One of the structures has already been completed, while two others are nearing completion. He appreciated donors, including Mosun Belo-Olusoga, for their continued support.

“Your generosity is a catalyst for our progress. May Almighty Allah bless you abundantly,” he prayed.

Dr. Adegunwa further disclosed that preparations were underway for resource verification for proposed programmes in the College of Law and the College of Health Sciences. “We are hopeful that by the next convocation, both Colleges will be fully operational,” he said.

He also revealed that the university recently obtained approval to operate a Campus FM Radio Station. According to him, the station would serve as a vital tool for community engagement and for combating misinformation, while bolstering the university’s role in the knowledge economy.

The convocation ceremony also featured the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees on distinguished Nigerians, including Aderemi Muyideen Makanjuola and Lateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila. A posthumous honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration was also awarded to the late Tiamiyu Adebisi Olatinwo.

In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Abiodun Musa Aibinu, expressed appreciation to the Chancellor for funding the ongoing Senate Building project, which he noted is now 30 per cent completed. He said the structure, upon completion, would significantly enhance the institution’s infrastructure.

Prof. Aibinu announced that 319 students graduated at the ceremony: 26 with first-class honours, 164 with second-class upper division, 108 with second-class lower division, 25 with third-class, and one with a pass. He reiterated the university’s commitment to promoting innovation, research and development.

Wema Bank Clinches Fourth Consecutive Overall Victory at Nigeria Bankers Game 2025

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Wema Bank Clinches Fourth Consecutive Overall Victory at Nigeria Bankers Game 2025

Wema Bank has extended its dominance in corporate sports, emerging as the Overall Winner of the Nigeria Bankers Game, NBG 2025 for the fourth consecutive year.

The bank’s latest triumph at the Grand Finale of the annual tournament cements its record as the only financial institution to achieve such a feat.

The bank secured an impressive nine gold medals, winning across multiple categories including Table Tennis (Female Singles, Doubles, Mixed Doubles), Volleyball, Scrabble, Video Games, 100m Female, 200m Female, and the 4×100m Female Relay.

This year’s tournament also spotlighted exceptional individual talent. Oluwaseun Adewunmi, a staff member of Wema Bank, was named Overall Outstanding Athlete of NBG 2025, following her stellar performances in several events. Her consistency, discipline and versatility earned her widespread commendation.

Managing Director and CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, described the bank’s victory as a defining moment, particularly as the institution marks its 80th anniversary.

“Wema Bank Plc has once again won the Nigerian Bankers Games title for the fourth consecutive year. This remarkable feat sets a new benchmark in the Nigerian banking industry,” Oseni said.

He attributed the win to the dedication of the bank’s athletes. “Your stellar performance showcased the absolute best of our institution. This championship confirms that Wema Bank is a powerhouse—where excellence is the standard, not the exception.”

Adeyemi, while expressing joy over her individual award, said the recognition was a shared victory.
“I am deeply honored to receive this award. Representing Wema Bank across several events has been incredibly fulfilling. This achievement belongs to my teammates and everyone who supported us,” she said.

Wema Bank noted that its sustained success at the NBG reflects its culture of excellence, teamwork and continuous improvement. Beyond sports, the bank said the milestone underscores its long-standing commitment to innovation, resilience and the empowerment of its workforce.

With this fourth consecutive win, Wema Bank further solidifies its status as a trailblazer within Nigeria’s banking sector, both on and off the field.

LASWA, NIWA Launch Joint Safety Operation Ahead Festive Waterway Rush

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LASWA, NIWA Intensify Rescue Efforts After Boat Mishap Claims Six Lives Near Igbologun

Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA and the National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA have launched a coordinated safety and security campaign to protect commuters throughout the festive season.

LASWA and NIWA in a joint statement, explained that the festive-season operation will run across all major inland waterways, with a focus on preventing accidents, enforcing compliance, and discouraging reckless navigation.

Special Adviser to the Governor on the Blue Economy, Mr. Damilola Emmanuel, said the collaboration is designed to boost enforcement capacity and enhance synergy among security agencies, vessel operators, and riverine communities.

“This collaboration with NIWA amplifies our enforcement capacity and improves coordination with security agencies, vessel operators, and local communities to ensure a secure and joyful festive season for all waterway users,” he said.

On her part, the Area Manager, NIWA Lagos Area Office, Engr. Sarat Braimah, said the goal is to ensure safe navigation for all waterway users throughout the holiday period.

“This season is a time for celebration, and we can only achieve safe and enjoyable travels when everyone, regulators, operators and passengers, plays their part,” she said. “Together, we will ensure safe navigation and compliance on all waterways.”

According to the statement, collaboration strategy rests on several pillars.

Both agencies will deploy coordinated patrol teams comprising LASWA, NIWA, Marine Police and community safety volunteers to monitor major routes and terminals, particularly at peak hours and after dark.

Commercial boats will undergo joint pre-departure safety checks throughout the season, while random spot inspections will ensure operators comply with licensing rules, manifest procedures, and mandatory safety equipment standards.

LASWA and NIWA will provide frequent safety advisories to guide operators, with possible route adjustments where weather or tidal conditions pose risks.

Passengers or crew members suspected of intoxication will be barred from boarding, in line with new safety directives.

The agencies emphasised shared responsibility, urging passengers to wear life jackets, obey crew instructions, avoid overloaded boats, supervise children closely, and report suspicious behaviour.

Operators, on their part, must ensure valid operational licences, maintain fully equipped boats, prepare accurate passenger manifests, display emergency contact information, and enforce capacity limits.

Passengers and operators were also advised to report any emergencies to LASWA or NIWA officers stationed at terminals, or through the emergency hotlines displayed across jetties.

The agencies assured Lagosians that safety enforcement will remain consistent throughout the holidays as the state promotes water transport as a reliable, safe, and efficient mobility option.

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