News Agency of Nigeria
PhD scholar seeks tech-driven urban planning to boost efficiency, growth
Science & Tech

PhD scholar seeks tech-driven urban planning to boost efficiency, growth

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Babajide Awoyinfa

 

A Nigerian PhD scholar in power system studies, Mr Olaoluwa Adeleke, has urged government and stakeholders to prioritise renewable energy and digital infrastructure to drive Nigeria’s smart city transition.

 

Adeleke made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

 

He noted that Nigeria could leapfrog outdated infrastructure by adopting digital systems used in advanced economies such as the United States and Singapore.

 

According to him, Nigeria does not need to repeat the mistakes of older economies.

 

“We can skip decades of slow infrastructure development by going digital and integrating smart technologies into our cities.”

 

Adeleke, whose research focuses on renewable energy, power system stability, microgrids, and robotics, said Nigeria, one of Africa’s most outage-prone nations, could benefit from IoT-enabled smart grids that detect and correct faults automatically.

 

He explained that smart water networks and advanced monitoring systems could also improve efficiency, reduce waste, and support better urban resource management, aligning with Nigeria’s goal of building sustainable and resilient cities.

 

The scholar described renewable energy as the foundation of smart city development, stressing that with only about 55 per cent grid access nationwide, Nigeria must expand investment in solar microgrids and smart metering technologies.

 

He said, “Renewable energy is not an option; it is the backbone of any smart city project. Without clean and stable power, there can be no genuine progress in digital transformation.”

 

According to him, these innovations will reduce dependence on generators, lower carbon emissions, and save part of the estimated 29 billion dollars lost annually to power volatility and grid instability across major sectors.

 

Adeleke said urban transport inefficiency, especially in Lagos, costs billions of Naira yearly, adding that AI-driven traffic lights, GPS-equipped buses, and predictive transport software could drastically reduce congestion and improve mobility.

 

He said, “Cities like Singapore and Barcelona have shown that smart mobility is achievable when data, automation, and real-time monitoring are combined. Nigeria can replicate that model with local innovation.”

 

He emphasised that smart governance was essential for success, urging the creation of digital platforms that allow citizens to report outages, monitor responses, and participate in public decision-making processes more effectively.

 

“A truly smart city must be people-centred. Technology should empower citizens to hold leaders accountable, improve transparency, and strengthen service delivery at all levels.”

 

The scholar warned that increased reliance on technology could expose Nigeria to cyber threats, including ransomware and data breaches, calling for stronger cybersecurity frameworks and specialised training for government and energy sector workers.

 

He said adopting blockchain-based data protection systems would enhance security, improve transparency, and prevent unauthorised access to sensitive information within Nigeria’s emerging digital infrastructure and smart energy ecosystem.

 

Adeleke also called for smart city solutions in rural areas, such as solar microgrids, telemedicine, and IoT-based agricultural tracking, which he said would improve access to power, healthcare, and food production.

 

He noted, “Smart cities must not exclude rural areas. With solar microgrids, smart farming, and telemedicine, we can create inclusive development that bridges the rural–urban divide.”

 

He identified financing gaps, weak connectivity, and low awareness as key challenges, recommending public-private partnerships, satellite broadband investment, and community education to ensure equitable digital and energy access nationwide.

 

On international cooperation, he urged Nigeria to strengthen collaboration with the World Bank, African Development Bank, and global technology firms like Huawei to secure funding, knowledge transfer, and technical expertise.

 

He said effective implementation of smart city projects could save up to 30 per cent in energy losses, create ICT and renewable energy jobs, and improve national security through better data-driven management systems.

 

“Smart cities are not only about technology but about creating sustainable, inclusive, and resilient communities powered by clean energy and guided by innovation,” Adeleke told NAN. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

BRIPAN, Deloitte mull collaboration to strengthen insolvency reforms
Economy/Business

BRIPAN, Deloitte mull collaboration to strengthen insolvency reforms

 

 

 

 

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) and Deloitte have forged a collaboration aimed at positioning Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s evolving insolvency landscape.

 

This, they stated, could be achieved through enhanced reforms and advocacy for specialised insolvency courts.

 

The President, BRIPAN, Mr Chimezie Ihekweazu, made this known during the association’s visit to Deloitte on Tuesday in Lagos.

 

Ihekweazu, also a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, stated that the collaboration would strengthen Nigeria’s evolving insolvency and business recovery framework under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020.

 

He added that the engagement marked a new phase in institutional partnerships to harmonise standards and promote reforms within the continent’s business recovery ecosystem.

 

He noted that with Nigeria’s insolvency and restructuring regime undergoing major transition under CAMA 2020 and the Insolvency Regulations, collaboration with key firms such as Deloitte had become critical.

 

Ihekweazu said that BRIPAN’s engagements with judicial institutions had highlighted the need for faster processes, improved judicial understanding and stronger ethical standards within insolvency practice.

 

He said that BRIPAN was planning a training of all the registrars of the Federal High Court as well selected judges of the Federal High Court.

 

“BRIPAN has maintained steady capacity-building programmes through seminars, workshops and webinars, while also sustaining international representation at INSOL Africa and the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law.

 

“So, we want to continue to work with our strategic partners including Deloitte in terms of training, so that together we continue to form this special area of insolvency practice,” he said.

 

Ihekweazu said BRIPAN currently has over 2,000 members, with a projected increase to 2,500 after ongoing training rounds.

 

He added that members were highly skilled professionals contributing to legislative and institutional reforms across the continent.

 

Also speaking, the Vice President of BRIPAN, Mr Albert Folorunsho, urged Deloitte to take a more active role in the association’s activities, especially in training, certification and committee participation.

 

Responding, Partner, Restructuring Services at Deloitte, Mr Akinola Akinboboye, expressed the firm’s readiness to partner with BRIPAN on advocacy, capacity development and knowledge sharing.

 

Akinboboye said the firm was keen to help entrench a culture of restructuring over liquidation.

 

He described restructuring as one area of impact that CAMA 2020 had helped businesses with in terms of liquidation and recovery.

 

He noted that liquidation was not the first and ultimate route in business.

 

Akinboboye stressed the need for more discipline in running businesses, noting that a number of companies in Nigeria have the right fundamentals to succeed.

 

“I still feel that there is a lot of education gap in the market about what we do, what we can do about CAMA and the capability that exists in BRIPAN.

 

“Liquidation should no longer be the first and ultimate route as administration can offer viable options to revive distressed companies.

 

“One of the requests that some of us in this room gave to the survey we did last year was to have a specialised court for insolvency.

 

“This means we do not go to the regular court but to an insolvency court where the judges understand what insolvency means, what administration means, and they can give judgments quickly,” he said.

 

Mr Ken Afrah, Associate Director, Turnaround and Restructuring, Deloitte, said the firm had witnessed the success of similar collaborations in other African jurisdictions, such as South Africa, where a pilot insolvency court was recently established.

 

“Bringing together the big firms, law firms and banks under one professional umbrella gives real power to drive reform.

 

“A strong, empowered body like BRIPAN can replicate that success story in Nigeria,” he said.

 

Afrah assured of Deloitte’s commitment to support BRIPAN’s advocacy, training and reform initiatives across Africa.

 

He noted that the collaboration would position Nigeria as a key player in continental insolvency practice.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that BRIPAN, established in 1992, continues to drive policy advocacy, legislative reform and professional development in Nigeria’s insolvency and business recovery space.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

10th NILDS National Quiz: Lagos City Senior College emerges state-level winner
Education

10th NILDS National Quiz: Lagos City Senior College emerges state-level winner

 

 

 

By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu

 

The Lagos City Senior College, Yaba, a public school and representative of Lagos Education District IV has emerged state-level winner of the 10th National Quiz Competition on Legislature, Democracy and Governance.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition organised by the National Institute of Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) held on Tuesday at the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Akoka.

 

The competition had participants from the six education districts in Lagos State.

 

The keenly contested quiz featured students in senior secondary schools competing on democracy, civic responsibility, governance and legislative knowledge.

 

It ended with the Lagos City Senior College in the first position with 50 points; Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu of Education District 11 was first runner-up with 45 points, while State Senior High School, Ibereko of Education District V was second runner-up with 30 points.

 

NAN reports that the victorious performance of the Lagos City Senior college students qualified and secured them the ticket to represent Lagos State at the South-West regional level of the competition.

 

The zonal competition will be held on Oct. 30th in Akure, Ondo.

 

Speaking, Prof Abubakar Olanrewaju, former Minister of National Planning and Director-General of NILDS, expressed delight at the students’ performance.

 

He noted that their brilliance demonstrated the institute’s mission of strengthening democratic and legislative education among youths.

 

Olanrewaju, represented by Mrs. Abisola Ojogiwa, Chief Accounts Officer at the institute, said the competition was designed to broaden civic knowledge and enhance students’ understanding of the history, structure and process of the nation’s legislature.

 

“NILDS launched the National Quiz Competition on Legislature and Democracy in 2016, originally involving schools in the Federal Capital Territory.

 

“However, the initiative later expanded nationwide, following the Governing Council’s directive in 2022.

 

“Since its expansion, the quiz has grown into a national annual platform fostering civic awareness, legislative literacy and democratic education among students across states, with strong partnerships from ministries and education stakeholders,” he said.

 

The NILDS boss declared that the Y-2025 Edition marked the 10th overall and the fourth to be held at national level.

 

He said that it reflected NILDS’ commitment to mentoring a generation of civic-conscious students through academic competition.

 

Olanrewaju congratulated the winners and finalist, saying: “I want to encourage them once again to improve in their knowledge and strive to upscale their knowledge gap on legislative practices and democratic development.

 

Speaking in her own capacity, Ojogiwa called on the students to pursue deeper civic engagement, adding that the idea was to strengthen their capacity and improve their knowledge of democracy, legislative practices and government operations.

 

“We intended this annual competition to stimulate students’ interest in governance and politics. It is also to encourage the youth to play proactive roles in matters affecting democracy and development.

 

“So, they know they are not supposed to be oblivious of what’s happening around them. They should know what’s going on in the country and in politics,” she said.

 

Earlier, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, commended the NILDS for the initiative and its consistency, describing the competition as ‘quite inspiring and laudable.’

 

The commissioner, who was represented by Mrs Oluwatoyin Williams, Director, Child Guidance, School Counseling and Special Education Units, noted that the competition would motivate students to learn more about issues of governance.

 

In his remarks, Mr Jubril Ahmed, a Teacher from Lagos City Senior College, expressed delight at the victory of its students, attributing their success to perseverance, hard work and focus.

 

Ahmed said that the victory called for more commitment, adding that the students would be adequately prepped for the zonal level competition.

 

He added: “We commend our students for their brilliance but we will still burn more of the candle.

 

“This competition not only assessed their knowledge but also broadened their appreciation of legislative governance, an experience that will guide them for the next stage and prepare them as responsible citizens.”

 

Certificates of participation were awarded to schools that featured at the competition, while winners of bonus questions were gifted with notebooks.

 

Some of the schools represented at the competition include Lagos City College, Yaba; Oriwu Senior Model College, Ikorodu and Vetland Senior Grammar School, Agege.

 

Some others are Dolphin Senior High School, Ikoyi; Estate Senior Grammar School, Ilupeju and State Senior High School, Ibereko. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

 

Edited by Christiana Fadare

Adebogun urges real estate professionals to build sustainable, inclusive African cities
General News

Adebogun urges real estate professionals to build sustainable, inclusive African cities

 

 

 

 

 

By Folasade Adeniran

 

Dr Oladega Adebogun, founder, Caleb Group of Schools, has described Africa’s rapid urbanisation as both an unprecedented challenge and a golden opportunity for sustainable development.

 

 

 

Adebogun said this in a statement issued on Tuesday by Mr Olawale Adekoya, Information and Media Officer, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State.

 

 

 

Adebogun, who is also the Visitor, Caleb University, was quoted to have said this in a keynote address at the 24th Annual Conference Gala Night of the African Real Estate Society (AfRES).

 

 

 

He was represented at the event by the Vice Chancellor of Caleb University, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia.

 

 

 

Adebogun said the theme, “Building for the Future: Sustainable, Inclusive, and Prosperous African Communities”, was a charge for the gathering of Africa’s foremost real estate minds to be architects of a better tomorrow.

 

 

 

“We are the custodians of the land and the shapers of the skylines,” he said, urging the industry to move beyond mere construction.

 

 

 

He outlined a three-fold mandate: to embrace green technologies for sustainability, to champion affordable housing and inclusivity for women and youth, and to design spaces that catalyse economic prosperity.

 

 

 

The immediate past President of AfRES, Dr Adekunle Awolaja, presided over an award ceremony that recognised outstanding contributions in both scholarship and industrial impact.

 

 

 

According to Awolaja, this underscores the sector’s commitment to nurturing talent and innovation. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Chinese community donates N5m food items to low-income families
Economy/Business

Chinese community donates N5m food items to low-income families

 

 

 

 

‎By Taiye Olayemi

 

‎The Chinese community in Lagos on Monday donated food and household items worth N5 million to 10 low-income families, in commemoration of the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

 

The donation, which also marked the Mid-Autumn Festival and Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, was coordinated by the Chinese Consulate in Lagos.

 

The event was in collaboration with the China Industrial and Commercial Enterprise Association and the Association of Chinese Women in Nigeria.

 

Beneficiaries received rice, noodles, semovita, cassava flour, spaghetti, groundnut oil, toiletries, and other household essentials to ease the impact of current economic

 

The Chinese Consul General in Lagos, Ms Yan Yuqing, speaking at the presentation, said the gesture was symbolic of China’s solidarity with Nigerians and its growing commitment to supporting local communities.

 

Yuqing said the initiative formed part of an ongoing charity programme tagged “Together Fight Against Hunger”, designed to support indigent families and strengthen social ties between China and Nigeria.

 

“Since the inception of this programme, we have been privileged to support over 300 families, providing not just food, but hope, dignity, and a reminder that no one walks alone in times of need.

 

“As we extend our hands to these families, we illuminate the path of friendship between China and Nigeria.

 

“This partnership goes beyond government-to-government relations; it reflects people-to-people cooperation,” she said.

 

Yuqing reaffirmed the Chinese government’s commitment to deepening the long-standing diplomatic and economic relationship between both nations, saying such humanitarian efforts represented the human side of international cooperation.

 

Also speaking, the Chairman of the China Industrial and Commercial Enterprise Association, Dr Eric Ni, said the group had made it a tradition to give back to Nigerian society through donations, scholarships, and empowerment initiatives.

 

“Today, we are delighted to distribute food items worth N500,000 each to 10 families.

 

“This is not the first time. We have supported over 300 families of low-income earners and more than 5,000 students through scholarships,” he said.

 

He noted that hunger and poverty remained global challenges that required collective effort, adding that the Chinese community in Nigeria would continue to identify with government efforts to alleviate hardship and promote inclusive growth.

 

“Hunger knows no boundaries. This project reflects our collective commitment to the wellbeing of the society we are proud to be part of.

 

“Nigeria has been home to many of us for years, and the warmth and hospitality of the Nigerian people continue to inspire us to support,” Ni said.

 

Adviser to the Association of Chinese Women in Nigeria, Mrs Loi Eng-Koon, said the gesture was also an expression of gratitude to Nigerians for their friendship and cooperation with Chinese residents.

 

“As Chinese women living and thriving in Nigeria, we understand the importance of building bridges between cultures.

 

“We have been warmly received by this beautiful nation, and this is our way of giving back and saying thank you.

 

“True celebration is not complete until we have shared our blessings with those around us. Let us continue to work together, hand in hand, to build a community where everyone can thrive,” she said.

 

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr Babatunde Kolawole thanked the Chinese community for the support.

 

She added that the donation was timely given the high cost of living and rising inflation in the country.

 

“This is a wonderful gesture extended to us. Considering the economic situation of the country, many people cannot afford these items.

 

“We say thank you to the Chinese community. We really appreciate,” he said.

 

The event also served as a cultural exchange platform, featuring brief remarks on the significance of the Mid-Autumn Festival, a celebration of family unity and gratitude observed annually in China. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Olawunmi Ashafa

Customer Service Week: CSCS reaffirms commitment to capital market innovation
Economy/Business

Customer Service Week: CSCS reaffirms commitment to capital market innovation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Taiye Olayemi

 

 

 

The Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) Plc, Nigeria’s capital market infrastructure company, has joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2025 Customer Service Week.

 

 

 

The theme for the Customer Service Week celebration is “Mission: Possible”.

 

 

 

CSCS, in a statement, said the week-long celebration highlighted the company’s commitment to resilience, innovation, and exceptional service delivery.

 

 

 

Haruna Jalo-Waziri, Managing Director of CSCS Plc, said the theme underscored the importance of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

 

 

 

He said these were values that were deeply embedded in CSCS’s operations.

 

 

 

He noted that the year’s celebration reflected CSCS’s continuous strides in delivering exceptional service by leveraging technology and innovation to transform the Nigerian capital market.

 

 

 

“From record-breaking transactions to pioneering digital solutions, CSCS has consistently redefined efficiency, accessibility, and trust in the market.

 

 

 

“In 2025, CSCS has further enhanced its digital processes with key innovations, including RegConnect Version 2, an upgraded registrar platform featuring advanced tools for real-time data validation, omnichannel transaction capabilities, and seamless API integration.

 

 

 

“The organisation also launched the Custodian Portal, a secure, user-centric platform that simplifies portfolio and trade management, document tracking, and share transfers for custodians.

 

 

 

“In partnership with MTN Nigeria, CSCS introduced the *7270# USSD Code Service, designed to democratise access to investment services by enabling investors to check balances, stock positions, and Direct Cash Settlement (DCS) status directly from their mobile phones, without the need for internet access,” he said.

 

 

 

Commending the staff of CSCS, Jalo-Waziri said, “It’s with a heart full of gratitude that I write to thank you for being who you are: our most valuable stakeholder.

 

 

 

“Our impressive achievements are only made possible by your unflinching faith in our audacious mission to revolutionise the Nigerian capital market.

 

 

 

“As we celebrate our esteemed customers, I like to also appreciate my colleagues, whose empathy and dedication to go the extra mile continue to make real positive changes in serving our customers and the market at large.

 

 

 

“As always, I want you to know that your resilience and tenacity toward delivering exceptional service is well appreciated, and you truly deserve all the celebration.”

 

 

 

Customer Service Week provides CSCS an opportunity to reaffirm its customer-first philosophy and recognise the tireless efforts of its employees.

 

 

 

Their commitment ensures seamless clearing, settlement, and market access for millions of investors across Nigeria and beyond.

 

 

 

As the Nigerian capital market prepares for its transition to the T+2 settlement cycle in November 2025, CSCS remains steadfast in its mission to deliver world-class services, foster investor confidence, and drive innovation that makes the impossible, possible. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Spotify pop-up showcases African music’s deep cultural roots in Lagos
Entertainment

Spotify pop-up showcases African music’s deep cultural roots in Lagos

By Omolola Olukoga

 

Spotify, a global streaming platform, has reaffirmed Africa’s global influence in contemporary music through its experiential pop-up, Greasy Tunes Cafe.

 

 

 

Phiona Okumu, Head of Music for Sub-Sahara African at Spotify, in a statement on Monday in Lagos said that the pop-up highlights the importance of cultural heritage in shaping modern African sound.

 

 

 

Okumu outlined a vision of growth for African music that stresses both global expansion and in-depth respect for tradition, as genres like Amapiano and Afrobeats continue to surge in popularity.

 

 

 

She noted that the strength of African sound lies in its authenticity.

 

 

 

“The world knows African music is having a global moment, but to genuinely grasp its explosive power, one must look closely at its roots.

 

 

 

“This vital connection between deep-seated heritage and the sounds of tomorrow proved the defining story of the inaugural week at the Greasy Tunes Café.

 

 

 

“The week anchored itself entirely on this premise: the legacy and evolution of African Sound, demonstrating how the continent’s sound shapers are intentionally weaving history into the contemporary fabric of global music.

 

 

 

“What unfolded was a masterclass in cultural cohesion, uniting ancestral spiritualism with digital-age production to showcase the music’s foundation and spectacular future,” she said.

 

 

 

 

According to her, one of the major highlights was a fireside chat titled, “The Evolving Sounds of African Music”, moderated by Spotify Senior Editor, Benewah Boateng.

 

 

 

She said Nigerian producers Andre Vibes and Braye, alongside Brazilian artiste, Melly, discussed the fusion of traditional and modern sounds.

 

 

 

She said that Vibes noted that percussion remained the universal element defining Afrobeats.

 

 

 

“Cultural heritage was also portrayed with a performance by the Eyo masquerade, connecting Lagos’s rich traditions with contemporary expressions.

 

 

 

“This brought light to another panel, “Cultural Symbolism and African Music”, featuring DJ Spinall and rapper Vector, moderated by Jide Taiwo. The speakers emphasised that African music cannot be separated from its cultural roots.”

 

 

 

 

 

“Another highlight was RADAR Presents: FOLA – catharsis Love, where Nigeria artist FOLA delivered an emotional performance that reflected the urban Lagos experience.

 

 

 

“His act underscored the role of music as a means of storytelling and communal healing,” Okumu said.

 

 

 

According to her, Spotify pop-up not only celebrates African creativity but also reinforces the message that the continent’s music derives its global power from the preservation of its cultural lineage. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Imisi Ayanwale wins BBNaija Season10
Entertainment

Imisi Ayanwale wins BBNaija Season10

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Oladele Eniola

 

After 72 thrilling days in the Big Brother Naija (BBN) house, Imisi Ayanwale has emerged as the winner of the Season 10 edition, walking away with a cash prize of ₦80 million.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the grand finale was held on Sunday night, following weeks of intense competition, strategy and entertainment that captivated millions of viewers across Africa.

 

The live finale broadcast to a massive audience across Africa, was a spectacular celebration featuring energetic performances from renowned Nigerian artistes, Adekunle Gold and Iyanya.

 

Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, the host of the show, dazzled the crowd with his signature charisma as the audience erupted with excitement when Imisi’s name was announced as the winner.

 

The humorous and outspoken housemate, who enjoyed massive support from her loyal fanbase known as “Ijoba 606”, triumphed over eight strong finalists namely: Dede, Kola, Mensan, Isabella, Jason Jae, Koyin, Kaybobo, and Sultana in securing her place in BBN history.

 

Her calm, strategic and emotionally intelligent approach earned her the admiration of both her fellow housemates and millions of fans who followed her journey from day one.

 

The finale wrapped up what many fans have described as one of the most unpredictable and emotionally charged seasons yet.

 

This season witnessed surprising turns including the disqualification of housemate Faith, a few days before the finale.

 

This year’s grand prize was valued at ₦150 million which comprises of ₦80 million in cash, a new car, a fully furnished apartment, a sponsored international trip, tech gadgets and several endorsement opportunities from the sponsors.

 

A visibly emotional Imisi expressed gratitude to her supporters and the Big Brother platform.

 

“I came into this house not knowing what to expect, but I stayed true to myself. Every challenge, every tear and every laugh brought me here.

 

I’m grateful to everyone who believed in me and voted for me,” she said.

 

The finale also saw emotional reunions as evicted housemates returned to celebrate the show’s milestone season.

 

Fans filled the venue and flooded social media with congratulatory messages under trending hashtags such as #ImisiTheQueen, #BBNaija10Finale, and #10Over10Season. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

E1 Lagos GP committee conducts waterfront tour
Sports

E1 Lagos GP committee conducts waterfront tour

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Vivian Ahanmisi

 

The Local Organising Committee of the E1 Lagos GP on Friday took some journalists on a familiarisation tour of the Lagos waterfront as preparations intensify.

 

 

 

The two-day international championship is scheduled to hold from Oct. 4 to Oct. 5 on Lagos waterways.

 

 

 

The tour aimed to acquaint journalists with the racecourse, facilities and infrastructure to be deployed for the world-class boat racing championship.

 

 

 

The E1 Lagos GP will be the first time the boat racing series is staged in Africa, with Lagos hosting and First Bank as presenting partner.

 

 

 

Chairman of the committee, Sam Egube, said the event would serve as a milestone in sports and entertainment while creating economic opportunities and showcasing Nigeria’s readiness.

 

 

 

He stressed that beyond attendance, the focus is on boosting Lagos’ economy, strengthening the national economy and opening opportunities for businesses.

 

 

 

Egube added that the championship would highlight lifestyle, culture and creativity while positioning Lagos as a hub for tourism and investment.

 

 

 

Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at First Bank, Yinka Ijabiyi, described the championship as a milestone for both the bank and Nigeria.

 

 

 

He said the partnership underscored First Bank’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sports, lifestyle and economic growth.

 

 

 

According to him, the E1 Lagos GP will strengthen Nigeria’s position in global sports while driving business opportunities across sectors.

 

 

 

“The E1 Lagos GP will commence soon, providing a platform to support lifestyle, the economy and the broader environment of the country,” Ijabiyi said.

 

 

 

The championship is expected to attract spectators, tourists and investors, while creating opportunities for local businesses in Lagos. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Tinubu hails E1 Lagos Grand Prix as milestone for innovation, sustainability
Sports

Tinubu hails E1 Lagos Grand Prix as milestone for innovation, sustainability

 

 

 

By Vivian Ahanmisi

 

President Bola Tinubu has described the hosting of the E1 Lagos Grand Prix as a milestone in Nigeria’s pursuit of innovation, clean energy, and global sporting excellence.

 

 

 

In his goodwill message at the championship’s opening ceremony on Friday, Tinubu said the event underscored Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development and the blue economy.

 

 

 

He said Lagos made history by becoming Africa’s first city to host the E1 powerboat racing series, joining Monaco, London, Jeddah, and Venice.

 

 

 

“Lagos is not just a city of history but bold innovation. From FESTAC ’77 to the Lagos Marathon, this city projects Nigeria globally,” Tinubu said.

 

 

 

He noted that the E1 Series, with its electric-powered vessels, was more than a spectacle but “a statement of intent” for a greener, sustainable future.

 

 

 

“As a nation committed to renewable energy, Nigeria welcomes this pioneering event as a complement to our drive toward a low-carbon economy,” the President stated.

 

 

 

He commended Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the E1 organisers, and sponsors for their vision and commitment in making the Lagos Grand Prix possible.

 

 

 

Tinubu, describing himself as “a proud Lagosian,” said the city remained Nigeria’s economic and cultural heartbeat, making it a perfect host for the championship.

 

 

 

He urged participating teams, owned by global celebrities, to recognise the hopes of millions of Nigerians who believe in the transformative power of sport.

 

 

 

“This event highlights our administration’s commitment to developing the blue economy as a catalyst for growth, jobs, marine tourism, and global partnerships,” he stressed.

 

 

 

Tinubu expressed optimism that the Lagos Grand Prix would signal Africa’s readiness to lead the transition to clean energy and sustainable prosperity.

 

 

 

“I welcome all visitors, competitors, and spectators on behalf of Nigeria. May you enjoy Lagos’ warmth, our cultural rhythm, and the promise of our future,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

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