Dr. (Mrs.) Olubusola Ajibola Abidakun, the permanent secretary, Ministry of Establishment and Training, disclosed this at the opening ceremony which kicked off this week at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) with the first batch of participants.

“This strategic initiative, organised in collaboration with Messrs Potenergy Limited, is designed to empower 1,000 public servants across all cadres and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with essential 21st-century digital competencies” Abidakun said.

Furthermore, Dr. Abidakun emphasised that the workshop is a direct response to the Ministry’s mandate on capacity development.

She noted that the programme focuses on IC3 Certification and META Associate Level Certification, ensuring that the state’s workforce is not only digitally literate but also globally competitive.

The Perm Sec. further added that the training is scheduled to take place at the Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC), Magodo, and will be conducted in four intensive batches beginning from Monday, 27th April to Thursday, 21st May 2026.

The Director of Training, Mrs. Modupe Animashaun, highlighted the meticulous planning behind the four-batch structure, noting that each group will undergo four days of rigorous hands-on instruction.

She further explained that the curriculum has been carefully tailored to address the digital gaps within the service, moving beyond basic computer usage to professional-grade digital literacy that supports the state’s drive for a more technology-driven administrative framework.

Mrs. Animashaun further explained that the inclusion of the META Associate Level Certification is a landmark addition to the state’s training portfolio.

She stated that by equipping 1,000 officers with these specific credentials, the Ministry is building a critical mass of digital champions who will lead the digital transformation within their respective MDAs, ultimately enhancing service delivery for the citizens of Lagos State.

Mr. Udebuana Oscar, head of Learning and Development at Potenergy Limited, remarked that the partnership with the Lagos State Government represents a significant milestone in bridging the digital divide within the public sector.

He noted that Potenergy is committed to delivering a world-class learning experience that combines theoretical knowledge with practical IC3 standards, ensuring that every participant leaves the programme with the skills necessary to navigate and excel in the modern digital economy.

This disruptive mechanism was made known on Tuesday by Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the MD/CEO of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), while featuring on a TV programme, “The Conversation”, on LTV.

He said that the move, which aligned with global best practices, would be backed by a review of the enabling legal framework, currently underway, to provide the necessary regulatory support for compulsory separation of waste at the point of generation.

Under the new direction, waste will no longer be treated solely as a disposal challenge but as an economic resource, as the state is strengthening its waste-to-wealth agenda, positioning recycling and material recovery as key drivers of a more efficient and sustainable waste management system.

He explained that the new policy direction was in sync with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of transitioning from a landfill-focused waste management system to one centred on material recovery and recycling.

This strategic shift is expected to reduce pressure on landfills, promote circular economy practices, and encourage private investment in recycling infrastructure.

“To support improved service delivery, the government is also considering mechanisms to assist Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators with access to new compactor trucks, recognising the capital-intensive nature of waste collection and the need to strengthen operational capacity across the system”, he stated.

On service quality and accountability, Dr. Gbadegesin disclosed that sanctions would be implemented against 22 underperforming PSP operators following repeated warnings and performance reviews.

“This follows a similar decisive action in which 27 PSP operators were disengaged last year for failure to meet required service standards,” he said.

He reiterated that the success of the initiative would depend on a combination of effective regulation, improved infrastructure, private sector participation, and responsible citizen behaviour, noting that waste sorting at source was fundamental to achieving a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Lagos.

The initiative aims to curb misuse, unlock economic value, and boost revenue generation.

At a collaborative meeting hosted by the Lagos State Valuation Office in Alausa, Engr. Olumide Sotire, the permanent secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, stated that informal spaces in Lagos have been widely abused.

The government is now taking a definitive position to restore these areas systematically.

“Lagos’ oil is its land,” Engr. Sotire emphasised. “These informal lands will be identified and put to proper use.”

He confirmed that the Governor has approved the appointment of the consultancy firm, Octagon Multi Projects, to facilitate this statewide project, which involves all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The project has adopted the slogan: “In Lagos, every square meter matters.”

In his welcome address, Dr. Adekunle Awolaja, the director of the Lagos State Valuation Office, praised Engr. Sotire as one of the state’s distinguished civil servants.

He affirmed that his office, although small, is actively fulfilling its mandates and described the informal lands project as a welcome development for Lagos.

Engr. Gbolahan Awonusi, the chief executive officer of Octagon Consultants, provided details on the collaboration between his firm, the Valuation Office, and other MDAs.

He referenced a previous project from a decade ago, initially valued at ₦800 million, whose worth has now escalated to an estimated ₦8 billion, a figure verified by the UK evaluation firm Knight Frank. This significant gap, he noted, represents lost revenue for the state.

“If Lagos State can properly document and develop informal land, its value increases substantially,” Engr. Awonusi explained. “Our intervention is to correct this, generate more revenue for the government, and drive value through proper planning.”

He revealed that while initially 2,000 hectares of undocumented land were proposed, the figure has now risen to 3,744 hectares across various locations, with an estimated value of ₦3 trillion.

He also acknowledged that compensations would be made where necessary.

Oludaisi Oso, the general manager of the Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority, highlighted the necessity of the collaboration to value all lands, physical developments, and walkways. The spaces identified by Octagon will be leveraged to generate revenue for the state.

Concluding, the Director of the Lagos State Valuation Office stated that the collaborative effort promises a better future for Lagos, driving increased revenue generation and fostering greater investment growth in the state.

It wasn’t just another corporate launch, it was the unveiling of a bold new chapter for one of Nigeria’s most resilient telecom brands.

When the curtains lifted, 9mobile revealed its transformed identity, T2, “Tech Meets Tenacity.”

A statement not only about the company’s evolution, but also about Nigeria’s indomitable spirit in the face of change.

Representing Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. ’Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, captured the moment:

“This initiative resonates with Lagos’ vision of building a connected, competitive, and innovative city. Lagos is proof of what happens when vision meets hard work, and when technology meets tenacity.”

The Governor’s message was clear, Lagos is deliberately shaping itself as Nigeria’s innovation capital, from Smart City projects to digitised healthcare platforms, from LASRIC start-up funding to tech-driven education through Eko Excel. For Sanwo-Olu, 9mobile’s transformation was another milestone in a journey that Lagos is proud to champion.

But the night wasn’t only about Lagos. It was about Nigeria’s future.

“Technology alone is not enough,” Sanwo-Olu stressed. “It requires tenacity, the grit to refine, to improve, and to apply innovation in ways that make our country greater.”

Adding his voice, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, called the rebrand “a new beginning,” urging T2’s leadership to embrace excellence in service to millions whose livelihoods depend on their network.

For Mr. Obafemi Banigbe, CEO of 9mobile/T2, the brand’s rebirth was more than cosmetic, it was structural.

He announced that the network is evolving into a cloud-native, API-ready operation, built on data-driven solutions.

He also disclosed a national roaming agreement with MTN Nigeria, a move designed to expand coverage and optimise service delivery.

The hall brimmed with industry leaders, innovators, and partners, united by a sense of renewal. The 9mobile choir’s harmonies carried the spirit of resilience, an echo of the company’s journey from challenges to reinvention.

As the evening drew to a close, one message lingered: this was not just 9mobile’s transformation. It was a symbol of Nigeria’s determination to lead in innovation, powered by creativity, resilience, and an unshakable belief in the future.

The moratorium on SUPs, extended until the end of 2024, will soon expire, paving the way for full implementation.

This decision aims to mitigate the harmful effects of plastic waste on both the environment and public health.

The announcement was made by Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, who was represented by the Special Adviser for Environment, Engr. Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, during a one-day stakeholders’ workshop on the ban held at the MAN Centre in Ikeja.

A statement from Kunle Adeshina, Director of Public Affairs for the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, confirmed this on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

“While the implementation of the ban on Styrofoam commenced on the 12th of February, 2024 upon the expiration of a three weeks moratorium, the State announced a six- months moratorium period for SUPs which was later magnanimously extended till end of the year 2024 upon Stakeholders appeal to give room for more consultation while the ban on SUPs be effective by January 2025” he said.

Wahab highlighted the ban’s crucial role in tackling plastic pollution in Lagos, noting that plastic waste clogs waterways, harms air quality, and poses health risks.

He stressed that Styrofoam and single-use plastics take centuries to degrade, making the ban essential for environmental protection.

It was also noted that the Lagos State government is working closely with private sector organizations to provide alternatives for Styrofoam containers and other SUPs, while supporting research into new technological solutions.

Wahab recognized that although the transition may be challenging, the state government is prepared to fulfill its responsibilities under the Lagos State Plastic Policy by creating a supportive environment for its implementation.

The statement noted that during the one-day workshop, Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, emphasized that plastic waste management is one of Lagos State’s biggest challenges.

He highlighted how the ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics has significantly reduced waste in drainage systems and waterways across Lagos
Tajudeen stressed the importance of engaging stakeholders to find practical solutions and reassured businesses that the government would not take actions harmful to their progress.

However, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining a clean environment.

Meanwhile, Professor Funminiyi Adeleke, the guest lecturer and former Dean of Law at Lagos State University, emphasized that while the ban is essential, its economic implications cannot be overlooked.

He called for increased awareness and the development of strategies to mitigate the impact on businesses and consumers

The event, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium in Alausa, Ikeja, was part of the 2023 Public Service Week activities.

Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the Head of Service, expressed the government’s recognition of the outstanding service rendered by these individuals over the past 30 years. The award ceremony aimed to honor their selflessness, dedication, and exemplary contributions to the state public service.

Initiated to reward diligence, commitment, and loyalty among public servants, the Long Service Merit Award also aimed to motivate others to serve the state with greater dedication. Muri-Okunola congratulated the recipients on their achievements and urged them to maintain their high level of responsibility and unwavering commitment to duty.

Addressing the honorees, the Head of Service commended their professionalism, perseverance, and innovative spirit in executing their assigned tasks throughout their service.

He acknowledged their significant impact as mentors, confidants, and role models within and beyond the boundaries of their daily work.

The Long Service Merit Award ceremony served as a testament to the Lagos State Government’s commitment to recognizing and appreciating the invaluable contributions of its public servants.

The honored individuals emerged as exemplary ambassadors of the Lagos State Public Service, reflecting the values and qualities that have earned them this well-deserved recognition and honor

His decision aimed to prevent financial losses for the country. Tinubu made these remarks during a civic reception organized by the Lagos State Government.

He emphasized that he did not engage in arbitrage to capitalize on the situation, stating that it was not the reason he was elected.

Tinubu’s Special Adviser, Dele Alake, released a statement explaining the president’s stance on unifying exchange rates and rejecting arbitrage.

Tinubu highlighted that these measures were necessary to address the financial challenges faced by the nation.

He also stressed the need to effectively manage available resources and meet the obligations to Nigerians.

Tinubu sought the support of the attending governors in working towards equitable development in the country. He expressed a commitment to an open-door policy and working together to revive the economy and transform Nigeria.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, praised Tinubu’s competence in managing human and financial resources, acknowledging his potential to improve Nigeria’s economic fortunes.

However, fame and success did not exempt her from the realities of life, including the burdensome responsibility of paying taxes.

One fateful day, a letter arrived at Iyabo’s doorstep, bearing the emblem of the Lagos State Government. With a sense of foreboding, she opened the letter to discover a demand from the government.

She was astonished to find that she was being asked to pay a staggering sum of N18,640,092.00 as personal income tax within a mere seven days.

Iyabo’s heart raced as she read through the details. The government claimed that she owed N7,376,000.00 for the year 2022, with an additional N11,264,092 for the preceding year. It seemed like an insurmountable mountain of debt, threatening to engulf her in its unforgiving shadow.

Filled with a mix of frustration and disbelief, Iyabo decided to voice her concerns. She penned a heartfelt response to Governor Jide Sanwo-Olu, seeking understanding and clarity. In her letter, she questioned the basis for these exorbitant tax demands, wondering how the government arrived at such outrageous figures.

With a touch of sarcasm, she reminded the governor of the numerous taxes she had diligently paid for her businesses and properties. She questioned the need for such an astronomical sum and expressed her bewilderment at being given a mere seven days to pay.

Iyabo recounted her previous visit to the government office, where she had dutifully explained her earnings with the help of her trusted tax consultant. To her disappointment, her letter had gone unanswered, further fueling her frustration.

In her passionate plea, Iyabo highlighted her personal achievements and resilience. She proudly claimed to have single-handedly raised her children, providing for them and many others without any assistance from the government.

She emphasized the countless hours of hard work she had invested to survive in a country where little seemed to be working right. In her eyes, the government appeared detached from the struggles of ordinary citizens, content to levy hefty bills without offering much in return.

Undeterred by the looming threat of consequences, Iyabo expressed her defiance. She declared that the government could go ahead and close down her business, arrest her, jail her, or even attempt to extinguish her very existence.

She fearlessly proclaimed that death would eventually come to all, and she refused to live in fear of her inevitable fate. What she did not possess, she could not give, and she stood her ground.

As the story of Iyabo Ojo’s tax dispute spread across the city, it ignited a conversation about the challenges faced by hardworking individuals in a complex and burdensome tax system. People began to question the fairness of the government’s approach and demanded transparency in tax assessments.

While the outcome of Iyabo Ojo’s struggle remained uncertain, her boldness sparked a movement for change. Citizens united, seeking reform that would alleviate the burdens of the tax system and ensure that the contributions of hardworking individuals were recognized and appreciated.

Iyabo Ojo’s story may likely become more than just a tale of personal tax woes. She still has some days left to coughout N18 million. So, the question is – how much does Iyabo earn annually? Will she be charged for tax evasion? Why is the tax fee so high.

Nigerians are probably waiting to see a symbol of resilience, a catalyst for reform, and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, standing up for what you believe in can ignite a spark of change that ripples through society, forever altering the course of history.

The bond issuing paperwork that ARM Securities supplied to investors indicates that Nigeria’s largest economy will raise to N100 billion under the current offer, which is Series I. The offer’s application period expires on May 12, 2023.

The Lagos State Government has stated that the funds raised from the offer will be utilized to fund important social and physical development projects throughout the state.

“Lagos State is among the 10 fastest-growing markets in Africa (and was ranked the 4th largest city in Africa in 2021) accounting for the location of more than 65% of Nigeria’s industrial capacity. The headquarters for most Nigerian Banks are in Lagos as well as top-tier companies and transnational corporations.

“The State is strategically positioned as a major trade port – with 50% of Nigeria’s port revenue being generated in Lagos from 3 lighter terminals and 2 seaports – and a first-choice destination for foreign investors,” ARM Securities stated in a note to investors.

The state was assigned an AA- long-term rating, translating to a stable outlook by Agusto & Co, and GCR respectively.

“This represents an upgrade from the previous A+ rating, given the State’s resilient financial condition, robust financial flexibility, suitable expenditure profile, and very strong cash-generating capacity to meet local currency obligations on time from Internally Generated Revenues (IGR). Lagos’ IGR is over 70% of the State’s total revenues. In 2021, the State generated total revenue of N771bn, including IGR of N573bn,” ARM Securities added.

The tenor of the current offer is ten (10) years just as its pricing ranges from 14.875 percent to 15.250 percent. The offer has a security term structure in the form of an Irrevocable Standing Payment Order (ISPO), and Consolidated Debt Service Account (CDSA) funded from the state’s internally generated revenue.

For interested investors, the minimum unit of sale is N10 million, and multiples of N1 million thereafter. The offer documents show it will be listed on the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) and the FMDQ Securities Exchange Limited.

Interested investors should also note that redemption or repayment is through amortized principal repayment following a 24-month moratorium. The offer for subscription is using book build while the coupon basis is fixed rate and semi-annually, the offer documents show.

“Over the last 10 years, Lagos State’s spending on infrastructure development within the state has exceeded N3 trillion. The focus on infrastructure development is essential, fostering economic growth and boosting the state’s financial capacity, enabling it to attract further capital,” the offer documents stated.

Mr. Babalola Obilana, Director-General of the Lagos State Pension Commission, announced this at the 99th Batch Retirement Bond Certificate Presentation at NECA, Ikeja.

Obilana, who presented the certificates to the retirees of the Lagos State Public Service, stated that the state had been working in accordance with the CPS’s ideals.

He emphasized that the Sanwo-Olu administration had been ensuring consistent payment of pension liabilities and first-rate service to its retirees.

He said: “This administration is committed to improving the welfare of our senior citizens and has initiated various programs to secure the financial freedom of our retirees. Today, we are here to celebrate your dedication and service to Lagos State. Your labor while in public service has not been forgotten. Thank you for your contribution to the dream of a greater Lagos.

“We appreciate our stakeholders, the PFAs/Insurance companies for their relentless efforts towards the success of the CPS. I also want to enjoin retirees to take very good care of themselves because health is wealth. Be prudent with your expenses,” he advised.