NNPCL unveils 12 CNG stations in Abuja, Lagos

Malam Mele Kyari GCEO, NNPC Ltd. (Right) Flanked by Minister of State Petroleum Resources (Gas), with other dignitaries on Thursday at the commissioning of 12 CNG stations

 

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has inaugurated 12 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations across Abuja and Lagos State,  to enhance access to cheaper and cleaner fuel in the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Mr Ekperikpe Ekpo inaugurated the 12 stations on Thursday simultaneously in Abuja and Lagos.

NAN reports that eight were sited in Abuja and four others in Abuja, respectively.

The Abuja stations are located at the Airport Road; Kubwa, Gaduwa, Olusegun Obasanjo Way, Zone 1, Dei-Dei Junction, Duste-Bwari Road and Gwagwalada.

The NNPC Ltd., under a strategic partnership with NIPCO Gas Ltd. executed the projects to offer CNG to a wide range of CNG vehicles including tricycles, cars, buses and heavy transport vehicles.

The Abuja and Lagos stations have a combined dispensing capacity of over six Million Standard Cubic Feet (MMSCF) of CNG daily, serving approximately 15,000 vehicles daily.

These CNG stations, according to NNPC, feature advanced reciprocating and hydraulic booster compressors, ensuring a dispensing pressure of 200 bar of CNG vehicles.

Ekpo said the gesture demonstrated the determination of the Federal Government to drive the CNG project to ensure gas prosperity.

According to Ekpo,  the stations will not only provide economic benefits by creating jobs and stimulating local economies, rather contribute significantly to Nigeria’s national goals of reducing emissions and combating climate change.

“Today the stations are being commissioned simultaneously in 12 stations in the country, gas prosperity is in progress.

“I commend the NNPC Ltd. for living up to their mandate to ensure that CNG is available for Nigerians. It is irreversible.

“From the daily production in the country currently we are only using three per cent that goes a long way to tell you that irrespective of the demand, we will meet the target.

“And of course the NNPC Ltd. and other investors are not relenting in making sure that they go into new development of gas,’’ he said.

Malam Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer NNPC Ltd., said the Abuja stations would soon connect to the AKK Gas Pipeline, becoming a mother CNG station.

Kyari added that the stations’ power needed would be met by gas-driven generators, reducing carbon emissions.

He said the CNG would be supplied to stations in Abuja and Lagos via virtual transportation from mother stations in Ajaokuta, Kogi and Ibafo in Ogun state.

The CNG station on the Airport Road, Abuja includes a 5-bay CNG Vehicle Conversion Workshop, capable of converting five to six vehicles daily.

Under Presidential CNG Initiative, NNPCL and NIPCO Gas entered into strategic partnership for expansion of CNG stations across Nigeria, and 35 CNG stations are to be constructed.

Speaking with NAN, the Director, Presidential-CNG Initiative, Mr Toyin Subairu said with CNG usage, at N230 per litre, against N680 per litre of fuel a driver would save about N70,000 per week and N2.6 million a year.

Speaking on cost of conversion rate which is about N600,000, Subairu said the kits would be provided to commercial vehicles at 50 per cent surcharged, to enhance access to the CNG.

He said Nigerians are willing to convert their vehicles to CNG engine judging by the queues they witnessed currently, which encouraged the opening of more CNG stations across the country.

“Before the station attendants could convert four vehicles daily, now apparently they can do 13 vehicles daily.

“President Bola Tinubu will want a million kits to be given for free and conversion done for free in the country to assist Nigerians,’’ he said . (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

British firm calls for resilience among Nigerian executives

By Funmilayo Adeyemi
The United Kingdom based leadership development organisation TEXEM UK has urged Nigerian executives to be resilient in their leadership responsibilities to achieve best goals in volatile economic environments.

In a statement on its website, TEXEM’s Director, Special Projects, Caroline Lucas expressed the need for the leaders to revitalise their organisations so as to inspire sustainable growth in a recovering economy like Nigeria.

Lucas said in an era of unprecedented volatility, senior executives grapple with a myriad of challenges that necessitate innovative strategies and resilient leadership.

 

She said that the TEXEM programme in Lagos, scheduled for July 17 and July 18, presents a transformative opportunity to invigorate Nigerian organisations and foster sustainable growth in the country’s economy.

The programme is titled “Revitalise Your Organisation: Inspire Sustainable Growth In A Recovering Economy”.

“In today’s interconnected and unpredictable world, resilience extends far beyond mere operational continuity during crises.

 

“True resilience embodies a company’s capacity to absorb stress, recover critical functionality, and thrive in new circumstances.

 

“This holistic view of resilience, as a strategic advantage, enables companies to capitalize on opportunities when competitors are least prepared,” the director said.

 

Lucas said the TEXEM programme underscores the importance of embedding resilience into all organisational functions, from finance, IT to customer service.

“Through case studies and role-playing exercises, executives will acquire practical tools to operationalise resilience and drive long-term performance.

 

“While resilience is essential, regeneration propels business strategy further.

 

“Regeneration entails making bold, proactive moves that reconnect companies with their strategic foundations,” Lucas said.

 

She added that this approach transcends mere survival, fostering long-term value and enduring competitive advantage.

“Executives will explore how to develop business models that generate greater long-term value, support a culture of continuous learning and development, and leverage technology to unlock new opportunities.

“This programme will equip leaders with the skills to drive sustainable growth and adaptability in an ever-changing world.

“The future of work, characterised by rapid technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and evolving consumer demands, requires adaptable leadership,” she said.

Lucas urged leaders to leverage emerging technologies and navigate complex stakeholder landscapes with a “learn-it-all” mindset.

 

“The TEXEM programme will delve into the Learning Executives Framework, helping participants develop a vision, deliver values, and master the art of persuasion.

 

“By fostering an environment that encourages innovation and flexibility, executives will be better prepared to win in turbulent times.

 

“The programme’s methodology, including group discussions, self-reflection, and peer-to-peer learning, will enhance participants’ ability to lead through uncertainty and drive their organisations toward future success,” she said.

 

Lucas asserted that by participating in this programme, executives will enhance their strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

 

“The immersive learning experience, guided by Prof. Paul Griffith and other distinguished faculty, will challenge assumptions and stimulate innovative thinking.

 

“Interactive activities such as case studies, assessments, and role-playing will deepen understanding and enable the application of new concepts in real-world scenarios.

 

“The ultimate goal of the TEXEM programme is to equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to inspire sustainable growth and long-term prosperity,” she said.

 

Lucas added that by fostering adaptability, amplifying purpose, and balancing short-term efficiency with long-term resilience, participants would drive their organisations toward enduring success.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Razak Owolabi

Lagos govt to allocate homes to 698 residents by ballot– Commissioner

Lagos govt to allocate homes to 698 residents by ballot – Commissioner

Homes
By Rukayat Adeyemi /Aderonke Ojediran
The Lagos State government says 698 residents of the state will be selected through ballot to acquire homes in its various housing estates.

The Commissioner for Housing, Mr Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, said this during the 2024 Ministerial Press briefing to mark the first year of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office on Thursday at Alausa, Ikeja.

He further said selected workers would be entitled to 40 per cent rebate in their service lifetime.

“In order to promote transparency in home unit allocation, the state government will henceforth allocate some of its homes through ballot.

“The process will be observed by independent observers to ensure transparency and fairness.

“Some of the locations are: Idale (Badagry Division) and LagosHOM Odo-Onosa/Ayandelu (Epe-Division) come June 4,” the commissioner said.

He added that the Lagos State Mortgage Board had complied a list of applicants for home unit allocation.

“Within various schemes, we have pre-qualified 950 applicants for home unit allocation. We also have 400 applicants for LagosHOMS, Ajara, Badagry, 450 for LagosHS, Odo-Onosa/Ayandelu.

“We have 100 for Lagos State public affordable housing scheme, Idale Badagry,” Akinderu-Fatai said.

The commissioner also said the ministry was able to engage over 8,000 skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled residents of Lagos.

“In August 2023, the ministry trained additional 200 artisans under its Master Craftsman Training Programme. The six weeks programme was organised in collaboration with a consultant.

“The courses were: plumbing and pipe works, masonry, painting, decoration, carpentry and furniture making and electrical installations,” he said.

Akinderu-Fatai said the ministry had to deal with challenges such as encroachment on state owned land and housing projects, litigations, slow pace of work by joint venture partners and the current inflation trend.

“But we have been able to settle most litigations through Alternative Dispute Resolution and strategies to curb delays.

“We will encourage the use of local products, we’re leaveraging on various relationships with the academia and professional bodies to support researches into cheaper and alternative building technology,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews)

Edited by Salif Atojoko

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L-R:Mrs Funmi Ekundayo, President, ICSAN, Ms Efosa Ewere, 12th Chairman ICSAN Lagos State Chapter, Mr Olufemi Sokan, Immediate Past Chairman ICSAN Lagos State Chapter during the Investiture Ceremony of the 12th Chairman ICSAN Lagos State Chapter on Saturday in Lagos

Lagos ICSAN chairperson advocates governance practices at grassroots level

By Rukayat Moisemhe

Ms Efosa Ewere, newly elected Chairman, Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria (ICSAN), Lagos State Chapter, says robust governance practices at the grassroots will help to shape decisions at the state and federal levels.

Ewere said this during her investiture as the 12th chairman of the association and the induction of newly elected executives on Saturday in Lagos.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the event is: “The Triad of Effective Governance: Engage, Empower, Excel”.

She said that governance at grassroot levels was important as its impact would reflect all the way to subnational and national levels.

In her acceptance speech, she expressed commitment and dedication to advancing the course of the chapter and the institute at large.

She added that her administration would build on the leadership excellence of her predecessors to make sure Lagos State remained the flagship chapter of ICSAN.

“Governance principles (3Es), which are engagement, empowerment and excel, would be the guiding principles of my administration to fully strengthen the capacity of our members.

“We would explore various models of continuous learning, establish a mentorship programme and prioritise governance advocacy.

“I hereby call for collaboration to achieve significant strides in the chapter and the institute at large,” Ewere said.

In his keynote address, Mr Tolu Odukale, Partner, KPMG, stated the importance of the triad of engaging, empowering and excelling in the rapidly evolving landscape of corporate governance.

According to him, the principles encapsulate the holistic approach required to foster a governance framework that is robust, inclusive and conducive to long-term success.

He noted that an engaged governance structure challenged the status quo and initiated productive debates while collaborating with fellow directors in a way that makes board meetings productive and efficient.

“Empowerment in corporate governance involves providing the enabling environment that would enable the key stakeholders in the governance structure to unleash the capability.

“Key considerations in empowering stakeholders in corporate governance include: provision of tools and training, delegation of authority and autonomy.

“Excellence in corporate governance represents the pinnacle of organisational stewardship, characterised by an unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, accountability, and performance excellence.

“It serves as a cornerstone for building trust among stakeholders, fostering sustainable growth and enhancing long-term value creation,” he said.

Mrs Funmi Ekundayo, President, ICSAN, said Ewere’s emergence as the 12th chairman of the Lagos State chapter marked the beginning of another effective leadership.

Ekundayo noted that Ewere had efficiently served in numerous committees and had never hesitated when called upon for any duty.

She charged the new leadership to confront the duties ahead of them with unwavering sense of dedication and commitment and carry members of the chapter along to actualise the chapter’s dream in sincerity of purpose.

“Ewere’s passion, commitment and pursuit of excellence always stands her out and the members have showed confidence in her abilities.

“I enjoin all members to give their maximum support to new chairman and executives, while I assure you of proper support from the national level to take gospel of corporate governance across all jurisdiction,” she said.

Mr Olufemi Sokan, the outgoing chairman, ICSAN Lagos State Chapter, lauded the support of members and executives for their dedication and courage during his two year tenure to drive corporate governance across all levels.

He called for more support for the Ewere led administration to drive the progress of the chapter. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Olawunmi Ashafa

Building on fire

Power surge ignites inferno in Lagos

By Henry Oladele

Electric power surge led to the razing of a four-storey residential-cum-commercial building in Lagos on Wednesday.

Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the accident in a statement he issued on Wednesday at Ikeja.

“The fire which started at No. 47 Dosunmu St. escalated to four adjoining buildings.

“The index building at No. 47 Dosunmu St. collapsed as a result of the impact of the fire.

“Responders are currently combating the fire to prevent further escalation,” he stated.

Oke-Osanyintolu added that LASEMA’s response team, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency agencies had been mobilised to the scene.

“Also on ground are firemen of the Nigerian Ports Authority, officials of the Lagos State Ambulance Service and those of other relevant agencies as well as men of the Nigeria Police Force.

“All responders are present at the scene of the incident under the supervision of the Commissioner for Special Duties and Internally-Generated Revenue, Mr Gbenga Oyerinde,” he stated. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Alli Hakeem

LASG says Lagos Island Model City Plan will restore past glory   

By Lydia Ngwakwe

The Lagos State Government says the Lagos Island Model City Plan, when operational,  will restore the glory of Lagos Island.

Dr Oluyinka Olumide, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, said this during the stakeholders meeting on the Plan, on Thursday, in Lagos.

He said that the administration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu had created a detailed plan for the future development of Lagos Island with the aim of leveraging  what made the island special to its advantage.

Olumide said that the intended goal of the plan was to boost the economy and social well-being of the people as well as their aspirations.

He said that the plan, conceived to correct the negative impacts of the partial implementation of the expired Lagos Metropolitan Master Plan, would in the next 20 years, seek to position the subject area into a world-class commercial, industrial, and cultural hub, across West Africa.

According to him, it will also promote the sustainability of the cultural and historical heritage of Lagos Island while advancing a new dimension in the regeneration of traditional communities.

He stated that the consultant, Messrs.Dar- Al- Handasah,   adopted a participatory procedure in preparing the plan to make it the outcome of different levels of stakeholders’ involvement.

“To ensure that no group is left behind in contributing to the achievement of a resilient, sustainable, and organised Lagos Island of our dream, the Draft Final Plan of the Lagos Island Model City Plan was displayed to the public for 28 days, between May 17 and June 23, 2023.

“ This was followed by presentations and engagements with other relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies and interest groups, including the Isale Eko Descendants Union,’’ he said.

Mr Sylvester Ogunkelu , Chairman, House Committee on Physical Planning and Urban Development, urged  Lagos Island indigenes to give their support for the enactment of the Model City Plan, saying it would give a facelift to the Lagos Island environment.

Dr Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser, e-GIS and Urban Development, noted that planning for the future development of Lagos Island was essential.

Dar- Al- Handasah, led by Mr Salim Eid, the Project Manager, presented the Draft Final Lagos Island Model City Plan along the thematic areas of challenges and issues, opportunities and positioning as well as strategies and outcomes.

Some of the issues, he said, include flood protection and mitigation, housing and community facilities, heritage and transportation.

The indigenes of Lagos Island, including Mr Oyinlomo Danmole, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, Mr Abiola Kosoko, Mr Hakeem Gbajabiamila and Mr Lookman Oshodi, spoke severally on the need to incorporate their comments and concerns into the plan.

They said they would like a blend of development and cultural heritage, devoid of gentrification.

Member, Lagos State House of Assembly,  Mr Olanrewaju Afinni; the General Manager, Lagos State Building Control Agency, Mr Gbolahan Oki; and the Managing Director,  Lagos State Development and Property Corporation( LSDPC), Mr Ayo Joseph; also spoke at the event.

Other notable personalities at the event include the Lagos White Cap Chiefs, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Mr Oluwole Sotire; and former Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Toyin Ayinde.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

 

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle

Plastic waste

No going back on styrofoam products ban- Lagos govt.

By Fabian Ekeruche

The Lagos State Government has affirmed its unwavering commitment to enforcing a comprehensive ban on the usage and distribution of styrofoam within the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said this at a consultative meeting with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) and Restaurant and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria (REFSPAN), on Thursday in Lagos.

Wahab underscored the extensive damage inflicted upon both public health and the environment due to the prevalent use of styrofoam in the state.

Speaking at the meeting, he conveyed the state’s stance on offering a “soft landing” to all producers and distributors, allowing a three-week grace period before enforcing the ban.

This temporary reprieve is deemed adequate for existing styrofoam stock in the state to be depleted, contingent upon the commitment of stockists.

Highlighting the prolonged nature of the deliberation, Wahab reminded attendees that the initial pronouncement of the styrofoam ban was made over three years ago, yet enforcement had been delayed.

He emphasised the gravity of the situation by pointing out the incalculable loss of lives, destruction of ecosystems, and harm to aquatic life caused by styrofoam usage.

Wahab stressed that residents’ lives took precedence over producers’ profits in the ongoing battle against the environmental menace.

He likened the manufacturers’ appeal to a request for people to endure poison for an extended period, merely to mitigate commercial losses.

Underscoring the havoc wreaked by styrofoam products, particularly during and after the rainy season, he placed responsibility on producers, suggesting that government intervention would have been unnecessary if they had adhered to existing regulations.

The commissioner emphasised the humane aspect of the ban, with the government granting a three-week moratorium to producers and entrepreneurs in the hospitality sector.

He urged them to acknowledge the necessity of making tough decisions in leadership and governance. Additionally, Wahab called attention to producers’ societal responsibility, noting the absence of environmental impact assessments before the commencement of styrofoam production for public use.

Dr Gaji Tajudeen, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, supported the ban, citing the menace caused by styrofoam in the environment.

He highlighted the non-recyclable nature of the product, asserting that it would persist unchanged for a century and posed threats to wildlife, as animals often mistake it for food.

Dr Muyiwa Gbadegeshin, the Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), expressed concern over the environmental impact of styrofoam packs clogging drainage channels.

He emphasised the danger to human health posed by the plastic product, deeming it irresponsible for the government to idly watch the costly clearance of packs from various drain systems.

Representatives from MAN and REFSPAN, Mr Okpe Sunday and Mr Olaoye Kazeem, respectively, pleaded for leniency and requested time to utilise existing stock before the ban’s strict enforcement.

This critical decision by the Lagos State Government was officially announced on January 21, 2024, involving an immediate ban on the use and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Dianabasi Effiong/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Lagos bans styrofoam, single-use plastics

By Fabian Ekeruche

The Lagos State Government has announced an immediate ban on the usage and distribution of styrofoam and other single-use plastics within the metropolis.

This is contained in a statement by Mr Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, on Sunday in Lagos.

Wahab emphasised that the decision was prompted by the environmental impact of single-use plastics, particularly non-biodegradable styrofoam, causing issues in drainage channels despite regular cleaning efforts.

He highlighted the responsibility of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in dealing with the substantial amount of styrofoam litter in major roads and markets.

The commissioner directed LAWMA and the Kick Against Indiscipline to promptly implement the ban and crackdown on production companies and distribution outlets for styrofoam to prevent further distribution.

Wahab warned of heavy fines, penalties, and possible premises sealing for non-compliance by producers, distributors, and end-users.

He stressed the need to address environmental desecration, especially in a coastal city like Lagos, urging residents to adopt alternatives like reusable containers to curb the consequences of indiscriminate plastic dumping. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chinyere Nwachukwu/Chinyere Joel-Nwokeoma

Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos

Group commends Tinubu over FAAN relocation to Lagos

By Uche Anunne

Chief Ugochukwu Nnam, President, Initiative for Leadership Development and Change (ILDC) has commended the Federal Government for relocating the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) headquarters to Lagos.

Nnam gave the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday.

He lauded President Bola Tinubu’s economic growth initiatives, which according to him includes the repositioning of the aviation sector.

The ILDC chief described Lagos as a commercial city with many number of international flights on daily basis unlike Abuja.

“FAAN has no business being in Abuja because Lagos international Airport hosts more international flights than Abuja.

“Do you know that Air France frequents Lagos more than almost on regular basis than Abuja, just like many others,” he said.

Nnam reiterated his confidence in Tinubu’s ability to rejig the Nigerian economy with viable and people-oriented policies.

He called on Nigerians to support the visionary policies of the Federal Government for a greater Nigeria.

He also advocated the relocation of CBN’s Forex department to Lagos, saying that Lagos is an African commercial hub.

“I want us to reflect on the picture of South Africa’s Pretoria and Johannesburg by making Lagos a commercial capital while Abuja will be administrative capital,” he said.

NAN recalls that FAAN headquarters had been relocated from Abuja to Lagos.

According to an internal memo signed by FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, directed that the agency’s headquarters be relocated from Abuja to Lagos.  (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma

“The Evil Genius” album mirrors my journey says Mr Eazi

By Aderonke Ojediran
Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record executive, Oluwatosin  Ajibade, popularly know as Mr Eazi, has described his new album, titled, “The Evil Genius”, as a body of work about his journey in life.
Mr Eazi said this on Wednesday night at the listening party of the new album, held at Windsor Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 16-track album, a fusion of music and art  has also been showcased in Accra and London.
According to him, the album is a seamless blend of visual art and musical creativity.
“To begin with, this album was made for me; the different seasons of life; baring my heart out, no holding back. When your personal story can inspire you, it’s liberating.
“The first track of the album, Oluwa Jor ( God please). Going to the ICU to check on my mum everyday got me thinking about life, from my pondering I realised life is all about sacrifices.
“About five tracks of this album was about my relationship, one of the track was Lack of Communication, which you’d agree with me is the number one danger sign in any type of relationship,” he said.
He added that the album made him understand that life is about making sacrifices and being intentional.
Mr Eazi, on the sidelines of the event, told NAN that his engagement with Temi Otedola has further encouraged him to communicate more.
“Be it in platonic or romantic relationship, you’d see it’s all about making sacrifices, compromises is what living is all about. Before now,  I usually don’t communicate well with Temi.
“I’d just stop talking, but there was this day she flipped it and I almost lost it, it made me understand how she felt.
”So, now I understand why it’s important to communicate be it with one’s  partner or just friends,” he said.
Mr Eazi, said that ‘Evil Genius’ was the first track he recorded with with the famous Soweto Gospel Choir.
Present at the listening party was Big Brother Naija Season 5 winner, Olamilekan Agbeleshebioba, popularly known as Laycon, who described the infusion of music and art as a classic move.
“It’s fresh; it’s new and I have enjoyed the tracks one after the other. This is Mr Eazi, so I expected nothing short of this,” he said.
Similarly, ace broadcaster, Olisa Adebua, described the album as a beautiful combination of music and art.
“It’s Mr Eazi; it’s all good; the infusion of art and music takes this to another level; it’s good for the culture,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
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