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Lagos NSCDC Busts Illegal Immigrants’ Camp Linked to Human Trafficking, Fraud in Badagry

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Lagos NSCDC Busts Illegal Immigrants’ Camp Linked to Human Trafficking, Fraud in Badagry

Lagos State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCSDC has uncovered a camp of illegal immigrants allegedly involved in fraudulent network marketing, human trafficking, extortion and human rights abuses in the Torikoh area of Badagry.

This is just as the Command also arrested four suspects and rescuing 17 victims in what the agency described as a major operational breakthrough.

The operation, carried out on Thursday, May 7, 2026, followed what the Command described as credible intelligence on the activities of a cross-border syndicate allegedly engaged in luring unsuspecting victims into Nigeria under false pretences.

According to the Lagos State Command of the NSCDC, the suspects, comprising three Togolese nationals and one Beninese national. were arrested during a coordinated raid, while 17 victims, including 12 males and five females aged between 25 and 35, were rescued from the camp.

The Command disclosed that investigations revealed the victims were allegedly recruited through Facebook by a Togolese suspect who promised them employment opportunities and better living conditions in Nigeria.

However, upon arrival, the victims were reportedly compelled to register for a fraudulent internet marketing scheme and subjected to extortion after the promised jobs failed to materialise.

The NSCDC further alleged that the syndicate operated a network marketing structure involving “up lines” and “down lines,” with intending members allegedly required to pay 650,000 CFA as registration fees before participating in the scheme.

According to the Command, some of the products associated with the operation were suspected to have been imported from Malaysia through channels yet to be verified.

In a dramatic twist, the agency said the suspects allegedly attempted to bribe operatives with 130,000 CFA during the operation, but the offer was rejected and subsequently documented as part of the exhibits linked to the case.

Other exhibits recovered from the suspects included an HP laptop, mobile phones, files, QNET letter-headed papers, leather bags and pharmaceutical items allegedly used on victims.

The Lagos State Commandant of the NSCDC, Adedotun Keshinro, warned perpetrators of human trafficking, fraud and related crimes to desist or face the full weight of the law.

He stated that intelligence gathered during the operation indicated that the syndicate operated camps in Aradagun, Mowo, Badagry Town and Limca areas of Badagry.

According to him, two additional camps linked to the syndicate had already been identified, although suspects reportedly fled before operatives arrived.

“The discovered camps will also be sealed by the Command to end such crimes from growing and destroying social and financial integrity in our society,” the Command stated.

The NSCDC also linked the operation to broader cross-border criminal activities similar to cases recently uncovered in other West African countries, including Ghana, where hundreds of victims were reportedly rescued from trafficking syndicates.

To strengthen inter-agency collaboration, the Lagos NSCDC Command directed that the suspects and rescued victims be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Command, for further investigation and possible prosecution.

The Command assured residents that investigations were ongoing to identify collaborators, determine the full extent of the syndicate’s operations and bring all those connected with the crimes to justice.

Ọmọ ÈKÓH Initiative Unveils ₦200m Support Scheme for SMEs, Startups in Lagos

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Ọmọ ÈKÓH Initiative Unveils ₦200m Support Scheme for SMEs, Startups in Lagos

Ọmọ èKÓH, an initiative of Imran Hamzat, has unveiled a business empowerment programme aimed at supporting small businesses, startups and young innovators in Lagos State with grants, startup kits and digital tools valued at over ₦200 million.

The initiative was officially launched on Saturday at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, where more than 5,000 youths, entrepreneurs, traders, tech enthusiasts and business owners gathered for networking, mentorship and innovation-focused engagements.

Organisers said the empowerment scheme included grants and business support packages for small and medium-scale enterprises, while over 1,000 businesses were reportedly registered free of charge with the Corporate Affairs Commission and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria.

As part of the intervention, laptops were distributed to graphic designers, programmers and mobile application developers, while content creators and digital innovators also received mobile phones and other digital support tools.

Speaking with journalists during the event, Deputy Director-General of the Ọmọ èKÓH Movement, Henry Babatunde Ige, described Hamzat as an innovator and philanthropist committed to supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs and technology-driven leaders.

According to him, the initiative was designed to create opportunities for young Nigerians by supporting innovation, enterprise development and technology adoption.

“Alhaji Imran Hamzat is a silent philanthropist with an eye on the business emperors of the future. He has a tendency to discover and evolve new ideas and innovations,” Ige said.

He added that the programme was focused on building a productive and economically empowered Lagos where young people and entrepreneurs could thrive through technology and enterprise.

The event also featured mentorship sessions, networking opportunities and innovation exhibitions, with participants expressing optimism about the future of entrepreneurship and technology-driven growth in Lagos State.

Organisers noted that the initiative would continue to identify and support emerging talents capable of contributing to economic growth and sustainable development in the state.

Fads Makes Stunning Comeback on MasterChef Nigeria, Wins N2m Prize

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blacktalker
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Fads Makes Stunning Comeback on MasterChef Nigeria, Wins N2m Prize

The latest episode of MasterChef Nigeria delivered a dramatic twist as previously evicted contestant Fads staged an impressive comeback to reclaim her spot in the competition and walk away with a ₦2 million prize.

In one of the season’s biggest surprises, eliminated contestants Fads, Pearl and Margaret were given a second chance through a high-stakes Redemption Challenge aimed at determining who would return to the MasterChef kitchen.

Competing for an opportunity to rejoin the contest and remain in the race for the show’s ₦73 million grand prize, the trio faced an intense culinary test centred on eggs.

The contestants were tasked with preparing three classic egg dishes, a poached egg, boiled egg and omelette, within 10 minutes, testing their technical skills, precision and composure under pressure.

At the end of the challenge, Fads emerged victorious after impressing the judges with her execution, while Pearl and Margaret were eliminated from the competition.

Following her return, the Top 8 contestants immediately moved into another challenge themed “Staples of Success,” where they competed for a ₦2 million reward.

The challenge produced mixed outcomes for the contestants. Derry’s dish suffered criticism after her chicken was found to be undercooked, while David’s roasted chicken and red chilli starter reportedly failed to impress the judges.

Contestant Favy also struggled during the challenge after her panna cotta failed to set, forcing her to improvise under pressure.

However, Demilade stood out with a combination of Potato Crisps and a Plantain Split dessert, earning praise for creativity and confidence.

Fads also impressed the judges with her elevated interpretation of Yam Chips and Potato Soup, with judge Eros describing the dish as “restaurant ready.”

Both Fads and Demilade secured places in the final two for the challenge, but it was Fads who ultimately clinched the Dish of the Day title and the ₦2 million prize, capping off a remarkable return to the competition.

The next episode of the cooking reality show will feature a high-pressure Fashion Challenge and guest judge Ezinne Chinkata.

The show airs every Sunday at 7 p.m. on Africa Magic Showcase and Africa Magic Family, with repeat broadcasts on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

AKEM Foundation Marks 4th Anniversary, Empowers Five Young Entrepreneurs with Over N6m Grants

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blacktalker
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AKEM Foundation Marks 4th Anniversary, Empowers Five Young Entrepreneurs with Over N6m Grants

The AKEM Foundation has marked its fourth anniversary with the empowerment of five young entrepreneurs through grant prizes worth over N6 million, as the foundation continued its mission of promoting education, entrepreneurship and youth development in Nigeria.

The anniversary event, held in Lagos on Friday, celebrated the journey of the foundation established by Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan alongside his siblings, Abiodun, Aduke and Folorunsho Ogunsan, in honour of their late parents, Engr. Akinola Ogunsan and Madam Emiola Ogunsan.

Speaking during the event, Chairman of the foundation, Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, said the initiative was inspired by the enduring values of discipline, compassion, education and enterprise instilled in them by their parents.

According to him, the family decided to sustain their parents’ legacy by creating opportunities for young Nigerians through educational and entrepreneurial support programmes.

“About five years ago, myself and my siblings decided that we must keep this legacy alive having been tutored by these wonderful beings. We are products of good parenting,” he said.

Dr. Ogunsan explained that the foundation started with support for four organisations in 2023 but has since expanded into structured interventions in education, social welfare, business empowerment, youth mentorship and community development.

He disclosed that the foundation received 71 applications for this year’s business grant competition, which was later pruned down to five finalists after several screening stages.

The first-place winner, Adetolani Amokaye, received a grant prize of N1.5 million, which was later increased to over N2 million through additional support from dignitaries at the event.

Adeola Deborah Agboola emerged second and received N1.25 million, while third-place winner, Nkechi Gift, got N1 million alongside additional support from members of the Chinese business community, including product orders and access to packaging and agricultural support.

Other beneficiaries included Ekom Gideon Fidelis, who came fourth, and Ajala Tiyinoluwa Busola, who emerged fifth.

Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Abiodun Ogunsan, described the organisation as a platform focused on creating hope and enabling young Nigerians to become catalysts for change.

“We are not just building an organisation. We are building hope, transforming lives and shaping a future where no dream is limited by lack of opportunity,” he said.

The business pitch competition was assessed by a four-member panel comprising Ezekiel Ishola of Standard Chartered Bank, Prof. Festus Ope-Davies, Dr. Wunmi Alabi of Lagos University Teaching Hospital, and Dr. Moses Oladimeji of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund-CACCOV.

In separate goodwill messages, guests commended the Ogunsan family for sustaining the initiative and promoting social impact through youth empowerment and philanthropy.

Deputy Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor, Sam Egube described the foundation as proof that individuals can contribute meaningfully to societal development regardless of the scale of their contributions.

Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Bode Adeleke, described the initiative as “brilliant,” while retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Yetunde Longe, praised the family for building a lasting legacy.

Also speaking, Moshood Jimoh, Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, commended the foundation for improving on its achievements yearly and urged continued support for the initiative.

The event attracted dignitaries from the security sector, academia, business community, civil society and government circles.

Among those in attendance were the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First Bank of Nigeria, Olusegun Alebiosu; retired senior police officers including Hakeem Odumosu, Lanre Bankole and Agboola Oshodi-Glover; as well as the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Fatai Tijani.

Lagos Police Arrest Two Suspected ‘One Chance’ Robbers, Recover Tricycle and Stolen Phones

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blacktalker
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Lagos Police Arrest Two Suspected ‘One Chance’ Robbers, Recover Tricycle, Stolen Phones

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have arrested two suspected members of a notorious “One Chance” robbery syndicate and recovered an operational tricycle allegedly used in robbing unsuspecting passengers across parts of the State.

The suspects were apprehended during a routine stop-and-search operation conducted along Iyana Ipaja Road by officers of the Command.

According to the Police, a tricycle conveying three occupants was intercepted for a search during the operation. One of the occupants was allegedly found in possession of three Android phones suspected to have been stolen from victims.

Police said while the search was ongoing, the tricycle rider suddenly sped off, abandoning the other occupants at the scene. One of the suspects, identified as Ademola Ibrahim, was immediately arrested.

During interrogation, Ibrahim allegedly confessed to being part of a robbery syndicate popularly known as “One Chance,” which specialises in dispossessing unsuspecting commuters of their valuables, particularly mobile phones, along Idimu, Iyana-Ipaja, Egbeda and Dopemu areas of the state.

Further investigations led to the arrest of the fleeing tricycle rider, identified as Raheem Lawal, aged 26.

Police operatives also recovered the tricycle allegedly used for the operations, bearing registration number SMK 309 QP.

The Command disclosed that two victims who had earlier reported separate “One Chance” robbery incidents along the same axis positively identified the suspects as members of the gang and also identified their stolen phones recovered from the suspects.

The Police noted that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate and bring them to justice.

The Lagos State Police Command reiterated its commitment to intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention strategies and sustained raids against criminal elements to ensure public safety across the state.

The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information through the Command’s emergency lines.

Polaris Bank Wins Jobberman Award for Advancing Youth Employment

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Polaris Bank Wins Jobberman Award for Advancing Youth Employment

Polaris Bank has been recognised for its contributions to youth employment and workforce development, receiving the Private Sector Champion Award at the 2026 Jobberman Partners’ Convening held at Eko Hotel & Suites.

The award, presented by Jobberman, honours private sector organisations that have shown strong commitment to advancing youth employability through recruitment initiatives, graduate trainee programmes, executive hiring support, candidate assessment programmes, and strategic partnerships that create sustainable career opportunities for young Nigerians.

The annual convening brought together stakeholders from the private sector, development organisations, and industry leaders to discuss practical solutions to youth unemployment in Nigeria.

Speaking on the recognition, Cynthia Sanyaolu reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through strategic talent development initiatives.

“This recognition reflects Polaris Bank’s unwavering belief in the potential of Nigerian youths and our commitment to building platforms that enable them thrive professionally and economically,” she said.

According to her, the bank considers talent development and youth empowerment as critical drivers of national growth and sustainable development.

The 2026 convening, themed “From Impact to Action: Collectively Designing the Future of Youth Employment in Nigeria,” focused on strengthening collaboration between the private sector and other stakeholders to expand access to meaningful employment opportunities and equip young Nigerians with relevant workplace skills.

Jobberman commended Polaris Bank for delivering measurable impact within Nigeria’s employment ecosystem, describing the institution as a purpose-driven organisation committed to supporting youth employability and the future of work in Nigeria.

Over the years, Polaris Bank has continued to invest in programmes that promote career growth, workforce inclusion and economic empowerment.

Among the initiatives highlighted were the bank’s Polaris Graduate Intensive Training, PGIT and Polaris Tech Ignite Training, TechIGNITE, both designed to equip young professionals with practical skills and career opportunities within the financial services sector.

WAEC Unveils Digital Learning Platforms Ahead of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

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WAEC Unveils Digital Learning Platforms Ahead of 2026 Computer-Based WASSCE

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC has announced a range of digital learning and support platforms aimed at improving candidates’ performance ahead of the 2026 Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination, CB-WASSCE.

Speaking during a media briefing on preparations for the examination, the Council highlighted several technology-driven initiatives designed to help candidates better understand examination patterns, strengthen learning outcomes and address common weaknesses identified over the years.

Among the initiatives is the Examiners’ Reports, a post-examination document prepared by WAEC senior examiners to analyse candidates’ performance, identify areas of strength and highlight recurring mistakes made in examination answers.

The Council also showcased the WAEC E-Study Portal, which provides access to past examination questions, marking schemes and performance insights to assist candidates in their preparation.

In addition, the WAEC E-Learning Portal was introduced as an online resource platform developed to help students address learning gaps and improve understanding in difficult subject areas.

WAEC further highlighted WAEC Konnect, an interactive platform created to facilitate communication and engagement between the Council, candidates and other stakeholders.

On the release of results, the Council stated that results for the 2026 CB-WASSCE would be released 45 days after the last paper, while certificates would be printed and issued to schools within 90 days.

It added that digital copies of certificates would also be accessible through the WAEC Digital Certificate platform.

The Council reaffirmed its readiness for the conduct of the 2026 CB-WASSCE in Nigeria, noting that preparations are being carried out in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Education, state ministries of education, the Nigeria Police Force and other stakeholders.

WAEC also appealed to the media and relevant partners to continue supporting efforts aimed at ensuring a credible and successful examination process nationwide.

SIFAX Group Congratulates Onigbinde on Election as MARAN President

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SIFAX Group Congratulates Onigbinde on Election as MARAN President

SIFAX Group has congratulated Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde on his election as President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN, describing his emergence as a reflection of professionalism and dedication to maritime journalism.

In a formal letter signed by the Chairman of SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, the company extended congratulations on behalf of its Board, Management, and Staff.

Dr. Afolabi described Onigbinde’s election as well-deserved, noting that his long-standing contributions to maritime journalism and the wider maritime industry had earned him the trust and confidence of his colleagues.

He expressed confidence that MARAN would continue to promote professionalism, ethical journalism, unity, and constructive engagement within the maritime sector under the new leadership.

Afolabi, who also serves as Patron of MARAN, said Onigbinde’s tenure is expected to further strengthen the media’s role as a key partner in the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.

He wished the new president wisdom, strength, and success as he assumes his new responsibilities.

Ogun Police Arrest Two Over Illegal Firearm Possession

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blacktalker
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Police Clarify Viral Video of Suspected Kidnappers’ Arrest in Ijebu-Igbo

Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command have arrested two suspects over alleged conspiracy and unlawful possession of firearm in Ifo area of the state.

The suspects, identified as Adeola Mathew, aged 47, and Rasheed Omoniyi, aged 48, were apprehended during an intelligence-led operation carried out by detectives attached to the Ifo Division.

Police say the operation took place in the early hours of Friday along Ibogun Road in the NITEL area of Ifo, following credible intelligence on activities at a suspected criminal hideout.

According to the police, Adeola Mathew was arrested at the scene, while a search of the premises led to the recovery of a locally made pistol concealed within the hideout.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the firearm was allegedly handed over to the suspect by Rasheed Omoniyi, who was later tracked and arrested by the operatives.

The police say the recovered pistol has been secured as exhibit, while investigations continue to determine the source of the weapon and the suspects’ possible links to other criminal activities.

The case is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, for further investigation and prosecution.

Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, commended the operatives for their swift response and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

The command also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies.

Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Crack Down on Illegal Mining in Kuje

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Army, NSCDC Mining Marshals Crack Down on Illegal Mining in Kuje

The Nigerian Army and the Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps have intensified efforts against illegal mining with a joint inspection of an illegal mining site in Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory.

The operation followed the arrest of 15 suspected illegal miners by the 176 Guards Battalion of the Nigerian Army in Gwagwalada, Abuja, before handing them over to the Mining Marshals for further investigation.

Authorities say the inspection was carried out in line with the Standard Operating Procedure guiding Mining Marshals operations, as security agencies move to ensure proper investigation and prosecution of suspects involved in illegal mining activities.

Residents of the area had earlier raised concerns over environmental degradation, insecurity and safety risks linked to illegal mining operations within the community.

Speaking during the operation, Commander of Mining Marshals Operations, Assistant Commandant of Corps Attah John Onoja, said the collaboration reflects the commitment of the NSCDC to stronger inter-agency cooperation in tackling economic sabotage.

He noted that the Commandant General of the NSCDC, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has continued to emphasise coordination, collaboration and cooperation as key pillars for effective security operations across the country.

Onoja added that intelligence sharing and institutional partnership remain crucial in combating illegal mining and other related crimes nationwide.

At the end of investigations, one Mohammadu Sani and 14 others were charged to court.

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