Author: Dodo Elias Denen

No fewer than 236 Lagos State students have been safely evacuated from Jos, Plateau State, following rising insecurity and threats to lives, the National Union of Lagos State Students, NULASS, has said.

The emergency evacuation followed a distress call received on Wednesday at about 11:45 a.m. from a student in Jos, who raised alarm over worsening security conditions and imminent danger.

“Ejooor oh. I wanna live and also my people oh. Jos is hot now Sir,” the student reportedly said, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Acting swiftly, NULASS National President, Comrade Hafiz Olufowobi, constituted a five-member emergency response committee led by the Vice President II (Diaspora), Comrade Oluwadarasimi Lawal, to coordinate rescue efforts.

The committee immediately engaged relevant authorities, including the Lagos State Ministry of Tertiary Education through the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, Mr. Olawale Samuel Kappo, to facilitate a safe evacuation.
At the University of Jos, the Dean of Student Affairs provided a verified database of 602 Lagos indigenes and residents. However, only 236 students were successfully processed for evacuation through a digital registration platform, amid panic and communication disruptions.

As the security situation deteriorated, arrangements were concluded for their immediate movement out of Jos, with security support provided by the Plateau State Police Command. Armed officers reportedly escorted the students out of the volatile areas.

The Lagos State Government, through the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Mr. Tolani Sule, ensured provision of buses and stipends to support the students throughout the journey.
The students departed Jos under tight security and arrived in Lagos safely on Sunday evening without any reported incident.

On arrival, they were received by top government officials, including the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Kasali Adeniran, and the SSA to the Governor on Student Affairs, alongside members of the NULASS National Executive.

NULASS commended the Lagos State Government for its swift response and coordination, singling out Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as key officials including the Commissioner for Youth, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlede, and other stakeholders for prioritising the safety of students.

The union also praised members of its emergency response committee for their dedication in ensuring the success of the operation.

Reaffirming its commitment to student welfare, NULASS called on state governments across the country to take proactive measures to safeguard their citizens, particularly students, in times of crisis.

Operatives of the Quick Response Squad of the Ogun State Police Command have uncovered a disturbing link between a father and his teenage son following the arrest of two suspects over unlawful possession of a firearm along the Shagamu Ogijo Road axis.

The arrest, which has sent ripples through the community, was confirmed in a statement issued in Abeokuta by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, who detailed how routine patrol operations led to the breakthrough.

The incident occurred on Sunday when officers mounted a stop and search operation at the Lafarge area, a corridor often flagged for security surveillance and intelligence gathering by the Command.

During the operation, a tricycle conveying a teenage boy was intercepted, prompting a search that would soon unravel a deeper and more troubling discovery.

Recovered from the minor were a locally made pistol, a live cartridge and a mask, items he could not convincingly account for under interrogation, raising immediate suspicion among the operatives.

Under further questioning, the teenager disclosed that the firearm belonged to his father, a revelation that swiftly shifted the focus of the investigation and triggered a manhunt.

Acting on the information, the operatives moved decisively and apprehended the father, identified as Joseph Kehinde, thereby tightening the net around what authorities believe could be a broader criminal link.

Both suspects have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for comprehensive investigation, as authorities work to unravel the circumstances surrounding the possession of the weapon.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Bode Ojajuni, commended the alertness and professionalism of the operatives, reaffirming the Command’s uncompromising stance against illegal firearms and criminality.

He assured residents of sustained security operations across the state and urged members of the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in the ongoing fight against crime.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned a newly constructed Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ office complex of the Nigeria Customs Service in Iperu, Ogun State, marking a major milestone in the Service’s ongoing expansion and reform efforts.

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony on Saturday, 4 April 2026, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the development was driven by the need to balance the Service’s core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement with improved welfare and working conditions for personnel.

He noted that the expansion became necessary due to increasing operational demands and limited space at existing facilities in Ikeja, Lagos.

“We’ve just commissioned the Federal Operations Unit; they will be moving here as soon as possible. It’s already been furnished. The accessories that would ensure proper functioning of the facilities have also been installed. Provision of a modern armoury and then, of course, you know that this is the warehouse directly opposite this facility. This warehouse will also support the warehouse at the nearby aviation village”, he explained.

He commended the Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Dapo Abiodun, for his partnership in the relocation project, while also paying tribute to his predecessor, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd), for initiating the project, describing his efforts as instrumental in laying the foundation for the current progress.

On funding, the Customs Boss disclosed that the project was initially estimated at ₦73 billion, but evolving economic realities may necessitate a review of the approved cost.

The CGC further disclosed that the Service has already commenced operations at the nearby cargo airport, which was commissioned the same day, with officers actively engaged in terminal operations and cargo handling.

“We’re already at the airport, and we also had our officers who performed tallying when Mr President was asked to witness the offloading of the first cargo at the airport. So, we’re already there, the facilities have been provided for us.”

The expansive project site is expected to accommodate about 142 buildings, including the training college, multipurpose halls, and a sports complex, reinforcing the Service’s long-term vision for modernisation and institutional growth.

The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has extended warm Easter greetings to officers, stakeholders and the general public, urging reflection on the enduring values of renewal, sacrifice and hope that define the season.

In a goodwill message issued by the Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Oladapo Afeni, the command noted that Easter presents a moment to pause from routine pressures, reconnect with loved ones and embrace the promise of new beginnings.

Afeni emphasised that even as Nigerians celebrate, the command remains resolute in its core mandate of facilitating legitimate trade and safeguarding the nation’s borders against economic and security threats.

He commended officers and men of the command for their discipline, professionalism and unwavering commitment, describing their efforts as central to maintaining seamless trade operations and national security.

The Controller also acknowledged the vital roles played by sister agencies, industry stakeholders and members of the media, whose collaboration continues to strengthen operational efficiency and public trust.

Special recognition was given to officers deployed across checkpoints and border stations who will remain on duty throughout the festive period, ensuring that supply chains remain uninterrupted and communities protected.

Afeni urged all personnel to remain vigilant and steadfast, even as they celebrate in their own capacities, noting that the nation depends on their sacrifice and sense of duty.

He wished all officers, partners and Nigerians a peaceful and joyful Easter celebration, expressing optimism for deeper cooperation and shared progress in the months ahead.

MAGGI has unveiled rising music sensation Qing Madi as the face of its latest campaign, “Me & MAGGI, So Good Together,” marking a bold step in the brand’s journey to deepen its connection with a new generation of Nigerians.

According to a statement signed by the Corporate Affairs Manager Nestlé Nigeria PLC, Toju Egbebi, the unveiling, held at Nestlé Nigeria’s Head Office in Lagos, signals an evolution in how MAGGI shows up in the lives of younger consumers, not just as a trusted kitchen staple, but as part of the moments, emotions, and shared experiences that define today’s culture.

Today’s generation doesn’t just eat, they create, remix, and share. From quick meals to content moments, food has become a powerful form of self-expression, and Gen Z continues to redefine it as culture. For MAGGI, this evolution is both familiar and exciting.

Building on the success of its “Taste of Christmas” campaign which blended food, music, and emotion, MAGGI continues to evolve its storytelling to reflect how people connect today: through shared experiences that feel real, personal, and culturally relevant.

Speaking at the unveiling, Funmi Osineye, Category Manager, Culinary/MAGGI, Nestlé Nigeria, said: “Food is evolving, and so are the ways people connect with it. Today, it’s not just about cooking; it’s about expression, vibes, and identity. A new generation is turning everyday meals into moments they create, remix, and share. MAGGI has always been part of that journey; from our parents’ kitchens to our own quick meals, and now as part of the culture shaping everyday creativity. As we tell this new story, it was important to partner with a voice that truly represents this generation. Qing Madi brings that authenticity, her world, her sound, and her connection with young people make her a natural fit for MAGGI today.”

At the heart of the campaign is a simple idea: the best moments often happen in the most familiar places, around food, with people who matter. Through “Me & MAGGI: So Good Together,” the brand captures these moments in a way that is relatable, expressive, and culturally resonant.

Sharing her excitement about the collaboration, Qing Madi said: “This partnership means a lot to me, not just personally, but for my generation. We’re expressing ourselves in new ways, even through things like food and cooking, not because we have to, but because we enjoy it. Being part of a campaign like this and seeing a brand like MAGGI create space for that, feels really special. I’m excited to be part of something that reflects who we are and how we connect today.”
To bring the campaign to life, the unveiling event was designed as an intimate watch party, a relaxed, at-home experience inspired by Qing Madi’s world. Guests, including close friends, media and lifestyle influencers, stepped into a space where food, music, and culture came together seamlessly.

The experience featured three immersive zones; a Content Tunnel, a Music and Culture Lounge, and a Photo Studio, each designed to reflect how young people create, connect, and share moments today. With this campaign, MAGGI continues to build on its legacy while embracing new expressions of culture, ensuring it remains a brand that resonates across generations, familiar, yet evolving with the times.

Nestlé Nigeria is one of the largest food and beverage companies in Africa. The Company’s purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come. For over 62 years of its operation in Nigeria, Nestlé has delighted consumers around Nigeria by consistently delivering high quality nutritious food and beverages under its iconic brands: MAGGI, MILO, GOLDEN MORN, NESTLÉ PURELIFE, CERELAC, NESCAFÉ and NIDO.

With 3 manufacturing sites, 7 branch offices and a head office located in Lagos, Nestlé Nigeria is a force for good, helping to improve the wellbeing and livelihood of individuals and families to build thriving communities while taking action to protect the planet.

The Ogun State Police Command has recorded a decisive breakthrough in its ongoing Operation No Traffic Gridlock, with a major enforcement drive in Ifo yielding multiple arrests and the clearing of key road corridors.

The operation, executed under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, signals a renewed push to restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic across the state.

Police authorities disclosed that no fewer than 15 individuals were apprehended during the exercise for defying lawful directives and violating environmental and traffic regulations.

The enforcement, led by operatives of the Ifo Division, focused on notorious congestion points, particularly the Abekoko and Old Bank axis along the Abeokuta Lagos Expressway.

These locations had long been plagued by persistent gridlock caused by indiscriminate trading activities and illegal occupation of road spaces.

In a coordinated sweep, officers dismantled makeshift structures, including shanties and planks, while removing wares displayed on the highway in clear violation of extant laws.

Authorities confirmed that more than six truckloads of seized materials were evacuated from the affected areas, restoring sanity to the corridor.

The police maintained that the operation was carried out with professionalism, aimed at safeguarding public safety and improving traffic conditions.

Commending the operatives, Ojajuni reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for acts that undermine public order and road safety across Ogun State.

He warned that individuals or groups found obstructing public roads would face the full weight of the law, urging traders and transport operators to comply with regulations in the collective interest of safety and order.

The former directors and owners of Union Bank did not just fail, they engineered a financial disaster. They manipulated reports, hid massive losses, diverted foreign loans and treated depositors’ money like a private wallet.

Investigators uncovered billions of dollars in misconduct. These directors buried over ₦250 billion in losses, piled a $300 million foreign loan onto the bank without protection and then forced Union Bank to carry the burden. They even used the bank’s own funds to buy its shares, an outrageous betrayal of trust.

It didn’t stop there. Over $100 million was pulled out improperly, leaving the bank exposed and struggling. Loans meant for customers were secretly diverted into shady transactions. False reports were sent to lenders. The system was deliberately deceived.

This was not incompetence. It was exploitation.

By 2025, their actions had created nearly ₦400 billion in losses and over ₦147 billion in unpaid charges. The bank was on the edge.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) stepped in just in time. Without that intervention, Union Bank could have collapsed, dragging others down with it.

Now, the bank is stabilising. But let’s be clear: this recovery is happening in spite of those former directors, not because of them.

They didn’t build value. They destroyed it.

And Nigerians deserve to never forget who was responsible.

The Ogun State Police Command has activated an extensive security architecture ahead of the Easter celebrations, deploying a formidable mix of personnel and operational assets across the state.

The move, directed by the Commissioner of Police, Bode Ojajuni, aligns with the broader mandate of the Inspector General of Police to guarantee public safety during peak festive movement.

In a decisive push, the Command has reinforced patrols along major highways, flashpoints and densely populated areas, creating a visible deterrent against criminal activity.

Authorities disclosed that the operation involves a coordinated synergy of joint security forces, integrating tactical units, patrol teams and intelligence resources.

A large scale show of force was also conducted across strategic locations, sending a strong signal of readiness and operational dominance to both residents and potential offenders.

The Command noted that the exercise was designed not only to deter crime but also to reassure the public of its unwavering commitment to their safety.

Ojajuni has further ordered extensive personnel deployment for traffic control, crowd management and rapid response duties throughout the festive period.

Security agencies within the state are working in close collaboration to ensure seamless coverage and swift intervention in emergency situations.

The police assured that the heightened operations would extend beyond Easter, sustaining pressure on criminal elements and maintaining public order.

Residents have been urged to celebrate responsibly, remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities through designated emergency lines provided by the Command.

Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG) to advance the aviation sector in Nigeria and across Africa by both organisations.

The agreement was formally executed by Mr. Christian Hatje, Managing Director, Business Aviation and SVP Commercial, representing AFG; and Mr. Stanley Amuchie, Executive Director and Chief Operations and Information Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc at a signing ceremony in Germany recently.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Christian Hatje stated, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our commitment to Africa’s aviation future. Partnering with Fidelity Bank, Nigeria’s leading aviation financier, we are confident in our ability to structure solutions that will drive meaningful growth across the sector.”

Through this partnership, both institutions will work closely to identify, finance, and grow aviation opportunities across the continent. The collaboration aims to provide innovative leasing and financing solutions that support airlines, aviation operators, and related stakeholders in expanding capacity, modernizing fleets, and strengthening operational and fleet efficiency.

“Fidelity Bank remains dedicated to supporting the aviation industry through tailored financial solutions. Our collaboration with AFG strengthens our capacity to provide sustainable financing that will contribute to the expansion of aviation in Nigeria and across Africa,” explained Mr. Stanley Amuchie.

This partnership reflects a shared vision to foster long-term development, stimulate investment, and create sustainable opportunities within the African aviation industry.

Nigeria remains a strategic hub for aviation development in Africa. By combining AFG’s leasing expertise with Fidelity Bank’s deep sector knowledge and financial strength, the partnership is positioned to unlock new growth pathways and enhance the sustainability of the aviation ecosystem.

This collaboration in Africa forms part of AFG’s broader global portfolio expansion strategy, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to structured aviation investments across multiple international markets.

Fidelity Bank is regarded as a market-leader in the Nigerian aviation industry with a long list of interventions across the value chain. Its aviation finance solutions support aircraft acquisition and leasing, route expansion, aviation infrastructure development, cargo and export enablement; and partnership structures for large projects.

Nestlé Nigeria Plc, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Organised Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), has launched a National Water Quality Advocacy Handbook aimed at equipping Nigerians with the knowledge and guidance needed to safeguard the quality of the water they use every day.

The handbook was unveiled at the Annual Water Quality Conference, hosted by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in Abuja, as a key outcome of Nestlé Nigeria’s national Water Quality Advocacy campaign and a significant step in advancing water safety and public health across Nigeria.

Designed to translate technical water safety principles into clear, actionable guidance, the handbook equips households, communities, policymakers, regulators, and industry practitioners to safeguard water quality. It outlines key steps for identifying risks, ensuring safe handling and storage, applying household treatment methods, and protecting water sources at the community level. It also underscores the importance of everyday behaviours in maintaining water safety, particularly given that water which appears clean may still contain invisible contaminants.

Recognising the critical role of awareness and education in improving water quality outcomes, the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, said, “Improving water quality outcomes in Nigeria requires sustained public awareness and education. Individuals and communities must be equipped with the knowledge to adopt safe practices and protect their health. The Water Quality Handbook represents an important step in this effort, helping to take water safety knowledge directly to communities and promote responsible water use nationwide.”

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Victoria Uwadoka highlighted the company’s long-term commitment to water stewardship.

“Water is fundamental to life, public health, and economic development, and as a food and beverage company, it is essential across our value chain. Through our water business, we are committed to delivering safe, high-quality water to consumers every day. However, that commitment extends beyond our operations to protecting shared water resources and improving access to safe water for communities. By leading the development of this handbook with our partners, we are strengthening water quality standards and promoting safer practices, particularly for individuals and families.”

Beyond technical understanding, ensuring safe water outcomes depends on consistent behaviours at the household and community level, where water is most often handled and consumed.

Speaking on the importance of translating knowledge into consistent practice, Dr. Nicholas Igwe, National Coordinator of Organised Private Sector in Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), said, “Improving water quality outcomes in Nigeria requires coordinated action across stakeholders, from policy to community-level implementation. This handbook helps strengthen awareness, support community education, and identify gaps that require technical and financial support. At OPS-WASH, we remain committed to working with partners to advance integrated solutions that address water and sanitation challenges in a sustainable way.”

To ensure widespread impact, the handbook will be made available through multiple channels, including digital download and physical distribution through government and community partners such as RUWASSA, alongside a nationwide grassroots sensitisation campaign to drive understanding and adoption of safe water practices.
Stakeholders, communities, and individuals are encouraged to download the handbook and engage their communities in adopting safer water practices, as part of a collective effort to make water safety a national priority.

Nestlé Nigeria is one of the largest food and beverage companies in Africa. The Company’s purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come. For over 62 years of its operation in Nigeria, Nestlé has delighted consumers around Nigeria by consistently delivering high quality nutritious food and beverages under its iconic brands: MAGGI, MILO, GOLDEN MORN, NESTLÉ PURELIFE, CERELAC, NESCAFÉ and NIDO.

With 3 manufacturing sites, 7 branch offices and a head office located in Lagos, Nestlé Nigeria is a force for good, helping to improve the wellbeing and livelihood of individuals and families to build thriving communities while taking action to protect the planet.