Kwara Shortlists 1,800 Applicants for TESCOM Job

One-thousand-eight-hundred (1,800) applicants have been shortlisted for teaching appointments at the Kwara State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), according to a statement on Sunday. The statement said the shortlist comprises 790 (44%) cleared for STEM subjects; 581 for core subjects; 370 for specialized subjects; and 59 for technical subjects— to be assigned to senior secondary schools across the 16 local government areas of the state in line with the needs assessment of the commission. Applicants who appeared for the interviews are to check their status on the portal, after which those shortlisted will undergo a mandatory drug test to ascertain their suitability to teach children, the statement added. The drug test will be carried out by the NDLEA and will be coordinated by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs Abuse, Prevention and Control Hon. Mukail Olamilekan Aileru. The commission said the drug test certificate will be sent to its office by the NDLEA as no candidate is allowed to access it on their own to curb counterfeiting. “His Excellency has graciously approved full payment for the drug test for all the 1,800 successful candidates, underscoring his commitment to a drug-free Kwara State. The test will begin on Wednesday April 9, 2025 and end on Saturday April 12, 2025. Shortlisted candidates from Baruten, Edu, Kaiama, and Patigi are slated for Wednesday,” the statement said. “Those from Ekiti, Ifelodun, Irepodun, and Isin will be tested on Thursday April 10; Offa, Oke Ero, Oyun, and Moro are slated for Friday April 11, while the candidates from Asa, Ilorin East, Ilorin South, and Ilorin West are to have theirs on Saturday. “The message is very clear: We are as interested in sound education as we are in having only tutors with sound mind and character.” Successful applicants will also sign a bond not to seek or get transfer for six years, a policy response to the dearth of teachers in rural areas, it added. “Shortlisted applicants are to also come with medical certificates from any state government hospitals as well as the original copies of their credentials for documentation during which they will be required to drop photocopies of same for record purposes,” according to the statement. The statement said shortlisted applicants will also submit handwritten letters of acceptance of the job offer. Other conditions of service will be spelt out during the documentation process, it added. The commission said the shortlisted candidates can take advantage of their drug test schedule to begin their documentation at its headquarters in Ilorin. “We thank all the applicants who took part in this rigorous and competitive process. Our shortlist is exclusively based on merit, needs assessment, and equity, with zero political interference,” the statement said. “This is as strictly directed by His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, to strengthen public confidence in our schools, encourage excellence, and give everyone a fair chance to get the limited government placement, irrespective of their backgrounds. “It is, indeed, another record breaker and we thank the Governor for this exemplary leadership. “These jobs were given to competent and qualified indigenes, non-indigenes, and persons living with disabilities once they come under the needs assessment and meet the criteria set by the commission.”

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Police Raid Baby Factory in Lagos, Arrest 39 Suspects for Murder, Kidnapping, and Robbery

Police Raid Baby Factory in Lagos, Arrest 39 Suspects for Murder, Kidnapping, and Robbery

Lagos State Police Command recently uncovered a baby factory in the Ijegun area of the state, according to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP). The operation, which took place on Saturday around 2:00 PM, followed credible intelligence that led to the Afurugbin area, where the factory was located. Six adults and three children were rescued during the raid, which also resulted in the arrest of the factory operator and her accomplices. Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, shared details of the operation during a press briefing at the Command’s headquarters in Ikeja. He revealed that on April 5, 2025, at approximately 2:00 PM, detectives were mobilized to the scene based on a tip-off about the baby factory. The operator, Mariam Vincent (35), and accomplices Orie Ruth (23) and Ujunwa Ifeanyi (18) were immediately arrested. Victims rescued from the factory included Precious (24), Magdalene (25), Adaobi (23), Princess (22), Ifeanyi (25), Amaka (26), and three children: Destiny (7), Miracle (5), and Success (2). During questioning, the suspects admitted to abducting their victims from various areas across the state to run the baby factory. Investigations are ongoing. The Commissioner of Police also addressed another incident involving a tragic shooting in Badagry. On April 1, 2025, at about 8:30 AM, a resident named Charles Atideka (currently at large) opened fire on three elderly individuals: Muji Onilude (75), Richard Atideka (70), and Charity Atideka (59). The victims were rushed to Badagry General Hospital, where they were declared dead. The bodies were deposited at the morgue for an autopsy. One suspect, Bright Sonu (33), who had accompanied the prime suspect, was arrested. The next day, Charles Atideka died in a hospital. The case has since been transferred to the SCID in Yaba. A murder case in the Okokomaiko area was also reported. On April 3, 2025, police received a report of a crime that had occurred on March 26, 2025. Shakirat Ojo (27) was allegedly beaten to death by her father, Kamoru Ojo, who then buried her in a shallow grave within his compound in the Afromedia area of Ojo. Following the report, homicide and crime scene detectives exhumed the body, which was sent for autopsy. The father has been arrested, and investigations are ongoing. Additionally, a case of child theft was reported to the police on April 5, 2025. A grandmother reported that her 3-year-old granddaughter, Wuraola, was stolen on her way to school. Detectives quickly apprehended two suspects, ThankGod Francis (33) and Grace Francis (21), and rescued the child. The suspects were arraigned in Ebutemeta Magistrate Court 3 on March 28, 2025. Although they were granted bail, they failed to meet the conditions and were remanded in custody. The Lagos State Police Command continues to investigate these cases.

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**Real-Time Intelligence Sharing Is Paramount – Gaidam**

Real Time Intelligence Sharing Is Paramount –Gaidam

The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has stressed the importance of establishing a seamless and secure mechanism for real-time intelligence sharing to enhance proactive responses to security threats. Speaking at an Interagency Security Seminar organized by the Army War College Nigeria, Gaidam emphasized that optimizing multi-agency efforts for effective threat response requires addressing critical gaps in the country’s security framework. He highlighted the need for cross-agency training and scenario-based drills to foster operational interoperability and mutual trust among agencies, leveraging modern technologies like artificial intelligence and digital forensics to improve operational effectiveness. Gaidam outlined the complex security challenges facing Nigeria, ranging from insurgency and terrorism in the North-East, banditry and farmer-herder conflicts in the North-West and North-Central regions, to separatist movements in the South-East and organized crime in the South-South and South-West. He emphasized that these threats require a comprehensive approach involving the entire government and society. According to him, economic disparities, governance issues, and the increasing use of technology by criminal enterprises further exacerbate the situation. The Minister pointed out that traditional security approaches, which focus solely on military or law enforcement responses, are no longer sufficient. An integrated approach is necessary, one that brings together military forces, law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and civil society. He stressed that multi-agency collaboration is not optional but essential to effective security management. Gaidam called for improved synergies between the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, DSS, NSCDC, NIS, and NCS. Gaidam also underscored the crucial role of the civilian population in security management. He advocated for strengthening police-community relations and promoting community policing initiatives, which will enhance intelligence-gathering capabilities and improve preventive security measures. The seminar’s guest lecturer, Major General Babagana Mohammed Monguno (Rtd), also reinforced the importance of military operations in restoring peace and stability. Despite the successes of ongoing military operations, he stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to effectively mitigate contemporary security threats across the country.

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National Police Day: Nigerian Government Celebrates Maiden Police Day With Grand Ceremony In Abuja

National Police Day: Nigerian Government Celebrates Maiden Police Day With Grand Ceremony In Abuja

The Nigerian Government marked its first-ever National Police Day with a grand ceremony in Abuja, celebrating the dedication and sacrifices of the nation’s police force. The event, held to honor the contributions of law enforcement officers, was attended by key government officials, security personnel, and citizens. During the ceremony, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu acknowledged the tireless work of the Nigerian Police Force in maintaining peace and security across the country. He commended the officers for their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, despite the many challenges they face in their line of duty. National Police Day aims to recognize and appreciate the hard work of the police force, as well as boost morale and inspire further dedication among officers. The day’s activities included awards and recognitions for outstanding police officers, showcasing the government’s support for their efforts. The event underscored the importance of law enforcement in ensuring national stability, with calls for continued reforms to strengthen the police force. The government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the welfare, training, and capacity of police officers to better serve the Nigerian people.

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PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS THE PASSING OF BUSINESS ICON PASCAL DOZIE

President Tinubu Mourns The Passing Of Business ICON Pascal Ddozie

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the passing of renowned business icon, Pascal Dozie. In a statement, the president described Dozie as a trailblazer in the Nigerian business landscape whose contributions to the economy and society will be greatly missed. Dozie, a prominent entrepreneur and founder of the financial technology company, was known for his pioneering work in various industries. His leadership and vision played a key role in shaping the country’s business sector, making him a respected figure both locally and internationally. In his tribute, President Tinubu highlighted Dozie’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and creating opportunities for future generations of Nigerians. His legacy, the president noted, would continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs in Nigeria and beyond. The passing of Pascal Dozie marks the loss of a significant figure in Nigeria’s business community. President Tinubu extended his condolences to Dozie’s family, friends, and the many lives he touched through his remarkable work.

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Steeze, Style as Egba Celebrates Heritage and Culture at the 2025 Lisabi Festival

Steeze, Style as Egba Celebrates Heritage and Culture at the 2025 Lisabi Festival

The 2025 Lisabi Festival has once again brought the rich heritage and culture of the Egba people to the forefront, showcasing a blend of tradition, style, and steeze. Held in the heart of Abeokuta, Ogun State, this year’s festival was an electrifying celebration of Egba identity, history, and pride. The festival, named after the legendary Lisabi, a revered warrior in Egba folklore, featured a series of cultural performances, traditional dances, music, and colorful exhibitions. Visitors were treated to an array of stunning displays, from the vibrant attires of attendees to the dynamic performances that spanned generations of Egba tradition. A key highlight of the festival was the fusion of modern fashion with traditional elements, as attendees embraced the essence of “steeze”—a term representing effortless style. Young and old alike showcased their creativity through their clothing choices, blending indigenous fabrics like aso-oke with contemporary cuts, reflecting both the pride in their heritage and the influence of global fashion trends. The event also served as a platform for cultural discussions, with leaders and dignitaries addressing the importance of preserving the Egba culture while embracing modernization. There were speeches from local cultural custodians and community leaders who stressed the significance of passing down traditions to younger generations and ensuring that the Egba heritage remains strong in a rapidly changing world. Cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond gathered to participate in this annual festival, which has now become a major event for celebrating the diverse cultures of the Yoruba people. The Lisabi Festival continues to be a vibrant testament to the strength, beauty, and resilience of the Egba people, who are proud of their past and optimistic about their future. As the 2025 Lisabi Festival wraps up, it’s clear that the Egba people continue to honor their roots with pride, style, and a keen sense of modern identity.

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Saudi Arabia Imposes Visa Ban on Nigeria and 13 Other Countries Ahead of Hajj

Saudi Arabia Imposes Visa Ban on Nigeria and 13 Other Countries Ahead of Hajj

In a significant move, Saudi Arabia has imposed a visa ban on Nigeria and 13 other countries in preparation for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. This decision is likely to impact thousands of Muslim pilgrims who were planning to travel from these nations for the annual religious event. The ban, which has raised concerns among Nigerian citizens and religious leaders, comes as part of the Saudi government’s efforts to control the number of pilgrims amid health and safety considerations. Saudi Arabia has been making efforts to manage the scale of Hajj in recent years, especially following the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 14 countries affected by this visa ban are yet to be officially disclosed in full, but the move is expected to affect numerous potential pilgrims from the affected nations. In response, the Nigerian government, through the National Hajj Commission (NAHCON), is expected to engage with Saudi authorities to clarify the situation and explore possible solutions for Nigerian pilgrims who have already made arrangements for the pilgrimage. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and millions of Muslims travel to Saudi Arabia every year to participate in this sacred journey. However, due to the ongoing global health concerns and logistical challenges, restrictions on the number of pilgrims have been enforced by the Saudi authorities in the past few years. More details are expected to be released as the Saudi government continues to address the situation and communicate its plans for the 2025 Hajj season.

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Rite Foods Chairman Asiwaju Adegunwa Donates N2 Billion Trauma Centre to OOUTH

Rite Foods Chairman Asiwaju Adegunwa Donates N2 Billion Trauma Centre to OOUTH

As part of his ongoing commitment to improving healthcare in Nigeria, the Chairman of Rite Foods Limited, Asiwaju Adegunwa, has made a significant donation of N2 billion to establish a state-of-the-art Trauma Centre at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH). The new Trauma Centre is set to enhance the hospital’s capacity to provide urgent medical care, particularly for patients with severe injuries, accidents, and emergency conditions. This generous donation is aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure in Ogun State and beyond, helping to address the growing demand for critical care services in the region. At the official unveiling, Asiwaju Adegunwa expressed his dedication to making a meaningful impact on the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of providing quality medical services to underserved communities. He noted, “This donation is an expression of our commitment to the well-being of the people in Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. We believe that access to top-notch healthcare is fundamental to the development of any society, and we are proud to contribute to the growth of medical facilities that will save lives and improve the health outcomes of many.” The Trauma Centre, equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed by highly trained healthcare professionals, will provide specialized services for accident victims, trauma patients, and those requiring emergency surgical interventions. It will also support the hospital’s existing services, offering a comprehensive approach to trauma and emergency care. The Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Professor Abayomi Arigbabu, alongside the hospital’s management, expressed immense gratitude for the donation. “We are deeply thankful to Asiwaju Adegunwa for this transformative gift. The establishment of this Trauma Centre will revolutionize the care we provide to our patients and will certainly save countless lives in Ogun State and beyond,” said Professor Arigbabu. Asiwaju Adegunwa’s philanthropic gesture is in line with Rite Foods’ broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, which focuses on giving back to communities and contributing to the nation’s socio-economic development. This donation is expected to be a game-changer for the hospital and the people it serves, providing them with enhanced medical care and increasing the overall healthcare capacity of the region. Rite Foods Limited, known for its innovative range of food and beverage products, continues to demonstrate its dedication to corporate social responsibility, with initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians across various sectors.

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