Lagos Archives | Trendbrio.com

Lagos APC Slams Peter Obi Over Criticism of Tinubu’s Vacation, Urges ‘Responsible Opposition’

Fola Badmus2 weeks ago2 weeks ago04 mins

LAGOS, NIGERIA – The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a stern warning to former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, urging him to adopt a more constructive approach to opposition politics and refrain from what it described as “habitual knee-jerk reactions” to national developments. The warning was contained in a statement released by the APC’s Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, in response to Obi’s recent remarks questioning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s short private vacation and its alleged impact on national security. Oladejo criticized Obi’s frequent public comments on national issues, accusing him of seeking “cheap relevance” and portraying himself as a moral authority while offering little in the way of substantive policy contributions. “Must Peter Obi comment on everything?” Oladejo asked. “Nigerians are not deceived. His constant moralising of the President’s every move is less about patriotism and more about political desperation.” He described Obi’s approach as reactionary and populist, reducing complex governance issues to “social media talking points,” rather than engaging in serious, solutions-oriented discourse. The APC spokesman also defended President Tinubu’s decision to take a brief vacation, insisting that the president remains fully in charge of the country’s affairs. “In modern governance, leaders remain in constant communication with their security and intelligence teams, regardless of location. Mr. Obi knows this, but prefers posturing over pragmatism,” Oladejo stated. He further cautioned Obi’s aides to carefully assess the former governor’s public engagements, warning that his pattern of criticism may harm his image as a credible opposition figure. “Leadership requires knowing not only what to say, but also when and how to say it. Constant agitation and reflexive commentary do not equal leadership—they undermine it,” Oladejo said. The APC reiterated its commitment to delivering on national priorities including economic recovery, national security, and public sector reforms, while dismissing Obi’s contributions as lacking depth. “Peter Obi’s comments amount to noise, not leadership or patriotism,” Oladejo concluded. “If he has meaningful contributions to make, let him present them responsibly. Otherwise, silence is an honourable option. For us in the APC, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our focus remains on governance, not political theatre.”

Lagos Warns Institutions Against Breaching Waste Management Rules

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago01 mins

Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has warned that the government will take firm action against any institution or organisation found violating waste management regulations. Eyes Of Lagos reports. This latest warning follows action against Dowen College, which has previously faced controversy. In 2021, the school was temporarily shut down by the Lagos State Government during investigations into the death of student Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a case that drew nationwide outrage. Wahab reiterated the state’s commitment to enforcing environmental sanitation laws to safeguard public health and the environment. He urged all institutions to adopt proper waste management practices or risk sanctions, including possible closure.

Lagos Warns Lekki, Ikorodu, Ajegunle, Isheri Residents to Relocate Over Flood Risk

Fola Badmus1 month ago1 month ago03 mins

Lagos | August 6, 2025 —The Lagos State Government has urged residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to relocate to safer ground as the state braces for heavier rainfall this year. The warning, issued by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, follows NiMet’s forecast that Lagos will experience significantly more rain in 2025 than in the previous year. Wahab identified Lekki, Ikorodu, Ajegunle, and Isheri (OPIC axis) as high-risk zones, warning that flash floods were likely. His comments came after continuous rainfall from Sunday night into Monday caused widespread flooding, submerging homes and vehicles in several communities. “We won’t tell Lagosians lies. Lagos will be exposed to the vagaries of climate change, and that means flash flooding will occur,” Wahab said. He assured residents that the state was investing heavily in mitigation, with ₦15bn spent on drainage infrastructure in 2024 and ongoing efforts to clear and expand water channels. Projects include System 44 in Lekki, drainage upgrades in Maryland and Ikeja, and the installation of high-capacity pump stations—such as the Ilubirin facility, which pumps three million gallons of water per hour. Wahab cautioned against building on wetlands and floodplains, warning that illegal structures would be demolished. He also defended the government’s environmental enforcement drive, which has led to the shutdown of non-compliant nightclubs and commercial premises. Meanwhile, NEMA reports that floods have killed 191 people across 20 states in 2025, with 94 missing, 239 injured, and 48,056 displaced. Over 134,000 people have been affected nationwide, including 60,071 children. Worst-hit states include Imo (28,030 affected), Rivers (22,345), Adamawa (12,613), Abia (11,907), Borno (8,164), and Kaduna (7,334). In 2024, Nigeria recorded about five million flood victims, with over 1.2 million displaced and more than 1,000 deaths.

Youngsters Ignite Lagos for 2025 ITTF African Youth Championships

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

As the Festival of Table Tennis continues, Lagos is set to host over 150 young talents from across the continent at the 2025 ITTF African Youth Championships. The event kicks off on Sunday, July 27, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium. Speaking at the press briefing held on Sunday, July 27, ITTF Africa President Wahid Oshodi described the tournament as a showcase of the continent’s finest young table tennis talents. He noted that many of the participants possess skills that rival those of Africa’s current senior players. “I’m thrilled that we’ll witness such high-level play from the best young talents across Africa. This generation is arguably the most gifted we’ve seen, and they represent the future of African table tennis. Players like Quadri Aruna and Omar Assar have made us proud globally, and now we get to see their potential successors. Egypt’s Ahmed Saleh, now coaching the national team, is here in Lagos, and I believe we’re in for an unforgettable tournament. Talents like Wassim Essid, who has competed at the highest levels, are just the beginning,” Oshodi said. ITTF Africa Deputy President Alfred Bagueka praised Nigeria for hosting the event, highlighting the country’s growing reputation as a top-tier organiser of international table tennis competitions. “Nigeria has proven to be a capable and passionate host, having successfully organised the West Regional tournament and the WTT Contender Lagos. The support from Lagos fans and the high standard of organisation will undoubtedly make this a memorable event. We also commend President Oshodi for his leadership in bringing major international events to Africa. Other nations should take inspiration from this,” Bagueka stated. Competition Manager Menna Elzaabalawy confirmed that over 17 countries will be represented, with more than 150 players competing in 16 events across singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team categories. “Nigeria’s experience in hosting international tournaments gives us confidence in a smooth and exciting championship. Players will compete in U-15 and U-19 categories, with team event winners qualifying for the World Youth Championships (WYC) in Romania later this year. Finalists in the singles events will also earn automatic WYC spots. This is the largest gathering of youth teams in Africa, and we anticipate thrilling matches over the next seven days,” she said. ITTF Africa COO Kweku Tandoh emphasized the significance of Lagos hosting the event for the first time. “This cements Lagos as the hub of table tennis in Africa. Following the AYC, we’ll also host the inaugural ITTF Africa Youth Cup—an initiative that could soon be adopted by ITTF globally,” he said. Africa’s top-ranked U-19 player, Tunisia’s Wassim Essid, expressed his excitement about defending his title. “I’m thrilled to be in Nigeria for the first time and eager to compete against Africa’s best. The energy and passion of Lagos fans make this a fantastic place to play,” he said. Nigeria’s Tobi Adebakin and Favour Ojo also shared their enthusiasm, acknowledging the stiff competition expected from North African countries like Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria, as well as Uganda.

Upsets, Thrills as Top Seed Crashes Out at WTT Contender Lagos

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

The main draw of the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos burst into life on Thursday, July 24, with fireworks and a major upset that sent shockwaves through the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall at Teslim Balogun Stadium. Japan’s Hina Hayata, the women’s top seed, bowed out of the $100,000 prize money championship in a stunning opening-day defeat. The day was packed with excitement and powerful rallies as top seeds launched their campaigns. India’s Sreeja Akula, the defending women’s singles champion, made her intentions clear with a commanding performance, while Egypt’s former African champion Dina Meshref also advanced to the second round after a solid first-round win. Akula, who claimed her first WTT Contender title in Lagos in 2024, approached her match with caution and tactical discipline. Her strategy paid off as she delivered the tournament’s first major upset, defeating Hayata in straight sets, 3-0 (11-7, 11-8, 11-3), to move into the second round. “I was well-prepared for the match, even though it was my first time playing against her,” Akula said. “She’s the top-ranked player, but I didn’t focus on rankings. I just concentrated on my game, and I’m happy with how I played.” Seeded ninth, Akula described Lagos as a lucky venue, having made history as the first Indian to win a WTT title. “Being the defending champion gives me a lot of confidence. I won both the women’s singles and doubles titles last year. Lagos has been a good hunting ground for me, and I’m really happy to be back. I just want to play my best and enjoy the tournament,” she added. Meanwhile, Egypt’s Hana Goda also made a strong start to her campaign. The 17-year-old, who won her first continental title in Lagos in 2022, came from behind to defeat India’s Roy Krittwika 3-1 (8-11, 11-9, 11-8, 11-7), securing a spot in the round of 16 where she will face Chinese Taipei’s Yi-Tian Yeh. Reflecting on her comeback, Goda said: “My opponent played better than I expected, and I was a bit shocked at the beginning. She took the lead and gained momentum. I’m glad I managed to turn things around, although I’m not satisfied with my performance. I hope to play better in the next round. It’ll be interesting facing Yi-Tian again — we played each other as kids, and maybe this is my chance to get some revenge from those early days.” As the tournament’s third seed, Goda expressed her joy at returning to Lagos: “I love being in Lagos. I have many friends here, and I always feel supported. I was sad I couldn’t come last year, and my 2023 performance wasn’t my best. But Lagos is special to me — it’s where I won my first African title. I hope to put on a better show for the fans this time.”

WTT Contender Lagos: Top Seeds Begin Hunt for Points, Top Prize

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

With the two-day qualifying rounds concluded, the main draw of the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos kicks off on Thursday, July 24, at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, where top seeds will begin their quest for world ranking points and the tournament’s top prize. While international stars are eyeing the title, the absence of Nigerian legend Quadri Aruna opens the door for local talents like Olajide Omotayo, Matthew Kuti, Abdulbasit Abdulfatai, and Taiwo Mati to make a strong impression. Tunisia’s Wassim Essid and Cameroon’s Ylane Batix are also among the contenders hoping for a breakthrough performance in Lagos—the second WTT Contender event hosted in Africa. In the Women’s Singles, defending champion Sreeja Akula of India faces a tough field, including top seed Hina Hayata and Honoka Hashimoto of Japan, Egypt’s rising star Hana Goda, and France’s Prithika Pavade. “I won the Women’s Singles title last year, and I’m aiming for another this year,” said Akula. “The competition is much stronger, but I just want to give my best and enjoy the tournament.” Also drawing attention is John Oyebode, who represents Italy but has Nigerian roots. The son of former Nigerian international Michael Oyebode, John, is eager to make his mark on home soil. “What makes WTT Contender Lagos unique is the massive support from the fans, regardless of where the players come from. They love the sport, and that’s a big motivation. Nigeria is home to me, and I want to enjoy myself by giving my best against the best,” he said. Meanwhile, 2024 Men’s Doubles runners-up Olajide Omotayo and Azeez Solanke are back with renewed determination to go one step further this year.

Ranking Points, Cash Prizes Up for Grabs at WTT Contender Lagos

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

Beyond the allure of the $100,000 prize pool, players at the 2025 WTT Contender Lagos are also chasing valuable ranking points at Africa’s most vibrant WTT Contender Series event, hosted at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos. As the qualifying rounds enter Day 2 on Wednesday, July 23, Lagos remains the epicentre of thrilling table tennis action. Winners in each event will earn a substantial 400 ranking points—enough to trigger a significant leap in the global standings. Runners-up will receive 280 points, while semi-finalists and quarter-finalists will take home 140 and 70 points, respectively. All eyes are on Denmark’s Anders Lind and Japan’s Hina Hayata, who headline the Men’s and Women’s Singles events. Both are strong contenders for the top prize in Lagos. Hayata, 25, is widely regarded as the most successful player in the now-retired ITTF Challenge Series, which began in 2017. Known for her exceptional spin on both wings, she is coached by the experienced Daisuka Ishida. Since her breakthrough at the 2021 WTT Star Contender in Doha, Hayata has claimed five WTT Contender titles and a WTT Star Contender crown. Making her debut in Lagos, she aims to add her first African WTT Contender title to her growing list of achievements. On the men’s side, 13-time Danish champion Anders Lind—who has secured six singles titles along with multiple doubles and mixed doubles crowns—returns to Lagos, where he enjoys strong fan support. The 2025 WTT Contender Tunis runner-up sees Lagos as a favourable battleground, thanks to the passionate local crowd that fuels his performances. Meanwhile, the qualifying rounds have been marked by flashes of brilliance and a fair share of unforced errors. Yet, for the determined competitors, the goal remains the same: a coveted spot in the main draw of the singles events, where the sport’s elite await. With only a limited number of slots available, the journey from the qualifiers to the main stage has been anything but easy. Local Nigerian players have featured prominently in both the Men’s and Women’s Singles, joined by fellow African hopefuls, all vying for a breakthrough moment. While some players wrapped up their campaigns on Day 1, the action intensified on Day 2—Wednesday, July 23—as the final contenders for the main draw began to emerge. The spotlight will also shift to the Doubles and Mixed Doubles events, which kick off from the first round. Unseeded pairs will battle for a place among the top teams, hoping to make their mark in the elite rounds of the competition.

Lagos Gears Up for 2025 Festival of Table Tennis

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

The Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall at Teslim Balogun Stadium is getting a vibrant makeover as Lagos prepares to host the Festival of Table Tennis, a 20-day celebration of the sport running from July 16 to August 5, 2025. This exciting festival will feature a lineup of prestigious competitions, including the ITTF Africa West Regional Championships, WTT Contender Lagos, ITTF Africa Youth Championships, and the inaugural ITTF Africa Youth Cup. As one of the global hubs of table tennis, Lagos is set to welcome elite players from West Africa, across the continent, and around the world for what promises to be a truly unforgettable sporting experience. The action begins with the ITTF Africa West Regional Championships from July 16 to 19, where regional champions in team and singles events will be crowned. From July 22 to 26, the spotlight shifts to the WTT Contender Lagos, drawing international stars eager to compete for $100,000 in prize money across five events. The increased prize pool and valuable ranking points have attracted a stellar lineup for this five-day showdown. Next, the continent’s rising stars take centre stage at the 2025 ITTF Africa Youth Championships, held from July 27 to August 3. This 14-event tournament will determine Africa’s top young talents. The festival concludes with the ITTF Africa Youth Cup on August 4 and 5, offering another platform for emerging players to showcase their skills and compete for continental glory. Throughout the three weeks, fans can expect electrifying matches, passionate crowds, and the signature energy that defines Lagos. It’s set to be a spectacular 20-day celebration of table tennis—uniting athletes, fans, and officials in a festival of competition, culture, and camaraderie.