Chief Onyema Ugochukwu has shared a story from his time as a soldier during the Nigerian Civil War. He disclosed that he was quickly promoted, from under-officer straight to full Lieutenant but soon after that, he was badly injured in combat.Speaking in an exclusive interview with Daily Trust TV, Ugochukwu said he got shot, lost his thumb, and took a bullet in his leg. He said the injuries were serious enough to take him off the battlefield for some time.
However, even though he hadn’t fully recovered, his battalion still chose him to serve as the adjutant Ugochukwu said that while the role of adjutant is mostly administrative, it still involved responsibilities close to the front line In Ugochukwu’s words: “I had double promotion from under-officer to full Lieutenant and then I got shot, my thumb was cut off and I had a bullet through my leg and things like that. That took me out of action for a while, but even before I had fully recovered, the battalion appointed me adjutant of the battalion. So I had to go back, but adjutant is more administrative but it also could give you some functions in the forward line”
As Nigerians continue to search for remarkable heroes in virtually all the fields of human endeavour, as their beacon – bearers in the dark tunnel of mass ignorance, it is indeed a piece of heart-warming news that one of our own is making the nation and indeed the African continent proud in the challenging world of academics. She is none other than the erudite paeditrician, Bolajoko Olusanya who was elected as a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences( AAS). And going by her outstanding achievements the prestigious honour is all well deserved.
Described as an exemplary scholar, disability inclusion advocate and social entrepreneur, Olusanya is actively engaged in globally impactful researches outside the traditional university/academic setting. That sets her apart as she stands head and shoulders above her peers. It is therefore, necessary for us all to glean from her vast and varied experiences in the global medical field.
With regards to her proud academic pedigree she is a graduate of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria (MBBS1977 – 1982) Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital & Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria /FMCPaed (1987 -1998 Paediatrics). Others include the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, ( UK, FRCPCH 2004 Child Health)and the University College London, UK for her PhD in 2008, specializing in Child Health & Audio-Vestibular Medicine.
Based on her feats in medical -related researches she was elected in 2023 as a Fellow of The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) and announced in April 2025: (News| AAS Fellow).
Worthy of note is that Dr. Olusanya is the Centre Director of the Healthy Start Initiative (HSI). The Nigerian/UK-trained developmental paediatrician with PhD in Child Health/Audio-Vestibular Medicine from the University College London is also the co-founder of the Centre for Healthy Start Initiative, Nigeria (an Organisation in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council).
Interestingly, she is the Medical Director of First Years Medical Centre and Phonics Hearing Centre in Nigeria and a Senior Collaborator with the Global Burden of Disease (GBD). She is involved in the study based at the Institute for Health Metrics & Evaluation (IHME), Seattle, USA as well as being the coordinator/co-founder, the Global Research on Developmental Disabilities Collaborators [GRDDC].
She is a passionate and evidence-driven advocate for children with disabilities, accountability and decolonisation in global health.
Within the academic landscape she has authored or co-authored over 250 peer-reviewed articles with over 120,000 citations spanning paediatrics, otolaryngology, audiology, general/rehabilitative medicine, maternal and child health, and international health policy.
Of great significance is that her scientific work is inspired by her personal experience of inclusive education with congenital hearing loss and is uniquely focused on community-oriented management of developmental disabilities. That is including early detection and intervention programmes, as well as the prevention and management of the associated risk factors. She is academic reviewer for over 100 Medline-indexed scientific journals and serves on several editorial boards including BMJ Paediatrics Open, International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, International Journal of Audiology, PLOS One, Frontiers in Public Health, Frontiers in Pediatrics, and the Christian Journal for Global Health.
It should be highlighted that Dr. Olusanya pioneered the largest hospital-based and community-based universal newborn hearing screening programmes in Nigeria/Africa from 2003 to 2008 (UNHS Nigeria). And she was a leading contributor to the current WHO classification system for hearing loss. She is the lead local investigator for the first and only randomised controlled trial on the use of filtered sunlight phototherapy for treating neonates with severe-to-hazardous hyperbilirubinaemia globally.
She is a Fellow/Member of several professional associations, including the Paediatric Association of Nigeria, the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, the Royal Society of Medicine, the European Academy of Childhood-onset Disability, the International Epidemiological Association, and the American Psychological Association. She received the 2018 Aram Glorig Award by the International Society of Audiology, in recognition of her contribution to global hearing healthcare. She is listed among the world’s top 2% highly-ranked scientists and has been awarded a lifetime highly ranked scholar status in hearing loss and developing countries in the field of public health by ScholarGPS.
Outstanding is the fact that she is ranked as the leading researcher in paediatrics in Nigeria and among the top 5 in Africa. She is Co-Chair, The Lancet Commission on Hearing Loss and Member, The Lancet Commission on Disability & Health.
The first attractive factor of the book, ‘ Dead Journey’ is the alluring cover design with the photograph of a sunset, capturing the silhouette of the Cross on top of a mountain. The sky adorns a typical sunset in orange colour while the mountain is in black. The fact that the word,’Dead’ is in red signifies danger obviously portraying the dangers inherent in illicit sexual intercourse! Ordinarily, the word ‘Journey’ painted in white would have been a sweet, peaceful and memorable one. But it has been cut short, due to the evil and sin which the book warns the reader about.
This introductory feature on the cover design is to break the generally accepted notion that a book cannot be judged by the cover. This one does. And going to the rich, revealing and the ever-relevant thematic focus on the dangers and dire consequences of illicit sexual intercourse, the book conveys the message.
That is especially so with regards to both the pre-marital and extra-marital sex which the author vividly captures with apt quotes, mostly taken from the Holy Bible.
While Chapter One is titled: ‘In the Beginning ‘, Chapters Two and Three are on ‘Purpose of Sex’ and ‘What is Illicit Sex?’. Furthermore, Chapters 4 and Five deal with ‘Causes of Illicit Sex’ and ‘ Why on Dead Journey’. On their own, Chapters Six and Seven shed brilliant light on the ‘Dangers of Illicit Sex’ and ‘How to Avoid Dead Journey’ before the Conclusion.
As highlighted in the Foreword by Pastor Matthew reading through the book should encourage the reader the insight into how to develop moral values. In the Christian’s pilgrim journey faithfulness to God will ensure victory over sudden death traceable to illicit sex. That calls for personal righteousness, purity, moral sanity and a life of ” no spiritual nonsense”.
It was such a personal decision on righteousness that gave Joseph,a ” true child of destiny” divine favour from God that opened the prison’s doors for him, as well as his elevation by Pharaoh that all happened in a foreign land. That is much unlike Samson that capitulated to the whims and caprices of Delilah and ended his life’s trajectory in a bitter manner.
Illicit sex is therefore, as described in Proverbs Chapter 14 verse 12 that:” There is a way which seemeth right into a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death”.. This is reflected in the Prologue by the author. That explains why he warns against people treading the paths of ignorance, carelessness, worldliness and the ways of sensuality and flesh-pleasing.
Copious quotes are taken from Proverbs chapter 5 verses 1-3, Romans chapter 12 verses 1 and 2 and John chapter 17 verses 1 -17 to bolster the warning that though “we are in the world but we are not of the world”. And giving example of the lasciviousness of King Solomon who loved many strange women, because of which God tore the kingdom from his hand and gave to his servant we all have to learn to stay away from all manner of temptations from different kinds of women. Righteousness is the best way forward.
The different features of what makes up Lust and that of Love are to be found in the table on page xvviii. That takes us to Chapter One that enlightens the reader on the history perspective of sex, from before the Mid 1900s through moral value, sacredness to what it has metamorphosed to from the Mid1900s till date. He warns against our appearances not to be seductive.Advertisements should keep to high moral standards. Warnings against incest and mating with animals are also given in the chapter.
Quoting from Hebrews Chapter 13 verse 4 it states that: ” Marriage is honourable, and the bed undefiled; but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge”. From Song 7 verses 1 -10 emphasizes that God’s people should keep to the tenets of sexual intercourse.
Further to this Chapter Three talks about kinds of sexual abuse to include homosexuality, polygamy ( in his own view), lesbianism, as well as widow inheritance and unmarried woman concubinage.
The causes of illicit sex are traced to bad friendship, quoting from Samuel Chapter 13 verse s 3-5 about Annob and Jonadab. Over familiarity is another listed factor.
Listed as the causes of Dead Journey are the harsh economic situation, quick money syndrome, social promotion and laziness all in Chapter Five.
The Dangers of illicit sex include premature death, HIV, curses,loss of love and affection barrenness and destruction of the soul. But how do we avoid the Dead Journey’? That is treated in Chapter Seven.
To do so we need God’s help, investment in God’s word, avoiding words that send wrong signals and staying away from over familiarity with others of opposite sex. We should also avoid sleeping alone in a hotel room, visiting pornographic sites, indecent dressing and one should be satisfied with one’s spouse.
As highlighted in the Conclusion, 2nd Corinthians Chapter 5 verse 17 states that: ” Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold all things are become new”. It means that we should do away with all forms of the factors that lead to illicit sex and avoid a ‘ Dead Journey’.
POSITIVES about the book
The message of abstaining from illicit sex is timely, more so now that the standard of morality has ebbed low; and with people in high places accused of one wrong or the other.
It was written with courage and deep research. The biblical quotes are relevant and insightful. Good enough, the dangers are highlighted in the chapters and the steps to take to avoid them are well discussed.
The presentation is commendable with the deployment of simple, easy – to – read and understand format.
THE MINUSES
Some typographical errors such as ‘Pharaoh hold’ ( instead of holds) the title ‘…on page vii and ‘ There are so many reason ( instead of reasons ) on page 56 should be corrected.
Also, the pages on ‘ ‘What people are saying about Dead Journey’ from page iv to vi should be placed after the Conclusion of the book
RECOMMENDATIONS
This one – of – a – kind book,:with a timeless message of high moral standards is well recommended to parents, educationists, pastors, preachers, worshippers and motivational speakers who interact with the younger generation of Nigerians. Based on the dire consequences of illicit sex which have become pervasive in our society, it is going to generate heated debate on its practicability under the harsh economic realities on ground in the country. But it is a must -read for each and everyone of us. Price: N3,000 for hard copy N1.500 for soft copy Big kudos to Friday John, the author
As we all roll out drums to celebrate Prof. Tunde Olusunle, a man who has impacted his generation in many ways, I just realised that I have never met him in person.Yet this man has changed my perception, my reasoning, and my views about life in general. He has also impacted my views about politics and politicians in many ways.How could a man that I have never met impact me so much? What’s thick about him? How did I become one of his fans?It all started with a phone call a few years ago…. “Hello, Seriki, I got your number from your editor, Tunde Rahman, and your MD, Eni B.“I had discussed with them about a job offer that you may like. So, I got your number from them to enable me to reach you.
After this call, I will be sending you two email addresses. Please send your Curriculum Vitae (CV) to them, and I will get back to you later.”Of course, I was taken aback. How could a man whom I have never met discuss a job offer for me with my bosses? How did he know me? In these difficult times, if a man has job offers, I thought he should first think about how to get them for his little brothers and cousins, I queried within myself.But the voice that spoke with me sounded too sincere to be that of a fraudster, and the details he gave me about my MD and my editor convinced me that he was out to manipulate me.And if there’s a job for me, should he have called my employers to discuss it with them? Does he want them to sack me? The questions were endless, but I needed to act.I immediately called my wife and told her about my encounter with the strange man, and she advised that I call my MD to confirm and that I should be discreet about it.With nervousness, I picked up my phone and called the MD.
Mind you, my MD is a man of few words. “Sir, a man called me and told me that he had discussed me with you. He asked me to send my CV. Is it true, sir?” He simply answered ‘yes’, and that was all; no further information. Haba!I wasn’t satisfied with that, so I called my editor. His words are not as few as those of the MD. I expected to hear more from him.”My editor, sir, a man called and asked me to send my CV to him. He said he has discussed it with you. His answer, too, was “yes, send.” I tried to ask further questions, but he hung up. His words became few that day.
Well. I took the “risk” of sending my CV to the unknown man, who later turned out to be my advocate.He reconstructed my CV and sent it back to me, and it was like, Wow! The same CV I sent was now looking different and better.I later got to understand that it is a name in Nigeria, especially in the media world. He had worked with former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a special adviser. Had also worked with military and civilian governors in the past.The government of Governor Idris Wada in Kogi State at the time needed to engage someone to work with His Excellency, and Prof. Olusunle was contacted, and it was I that came to his mind, a boy he had never met and indeed has not met even today.He didn’t just submit the CV; he pursued the job for me and kept updating me with every development. The rest is history.But this bulged my mind. How could a man I have never met do this? Who could this man be, and what’s his interest?But that is him, a man with a large heart. He does that for people. He doesn’t have to know you.
I have made several attempts to meet him, but that has not happened yet. But he has continued to share his thoughts and suggestions on salient national issues with me. He has shaped my views on several issues.Reading his articles has also groomed me to write better. A couple of times, he has sent me some cash to help my life.How do I celebrate such a good man as he turns 60 today? My family and I have prayed for him. He can only grow bigger and better. A man who seeks the good of another can never go down.Happy 60th birthday to a man with a heart of gold.
Happy 60th birthday to a man with a heart of gold.
Dr. Abdul Karim Bangura is a Sierra Leonean-American scholar, researcher, author, and scientist, widely regarded as one of the most educated individuals in the world. He holds five PhD and speaks 17 languages.He holds the following degrees: B.A. in International Studies – American University (1982), M.A. in International Affairs – American University (1982), Fil. Mag. (Master’s equivalent) – University of Stockholm (1983), PhD in Political Science – Howard University (1987), M.S. in Linguistics – Georgetown University (1989), PhD in Policy Sciences – University of Maryland at Baltimore (1990), PhD in Linguistics – Georgetown University (1992), PhD in Computer Science – Columbus University, New Orleans (2001), PhD in Mathematics.
He speaks 17 languages, including English, Temne, Mende, Krio, Fula, Kono, Limba, Sherbro, Kiswahili, Spanish, Italian, French, Arabic, Hebrew, German, Chinese, and Swedish.He has served in various academic roles, including American University – Professor of International Relations, Researcher-in-Residence, Coordinator of the Islamic Lecture Series, Howard University – Adjunct Professor and Lecturer, Georgetown University – Schiff Summer Program Professor, Bowie State University – Assistant Professor of Political Science, Founding Director of the Center for Success, University of Sierra Leone – Advisory Board Member for the Center for Development and Security Analysis, Brookings Institution – Research Assistant in Middle Eastern Affairs, Atlantic Council of the United States – Academic AssociateDr. Bangura is a prolific author, having written or edited 35 books and over 250 scholarly articles covering topics in political science, linguistics, computer science, mathematics, African studies, international relations, and Islamic studies. Some of his notable works include Multilingualism and Diglossia in Sierra Leone, Black Political Thought, Chaos Theory and African Fractals, Islamic Peace Paradigms, and United States-African Relations: The Reagan-Bush Era.His research has been published in prominent journals, including the Journal of Third World Studies, Africa Today, and the International Journal of the Sociology of Language.
He is also the Editor-in-Chief of the African Journal of Languages and Linguistics and the Journal of Research Methodology and African Studies.Dr. Bangura is a member of numerous academic and professional organizations, including the African Studies Association (Chair of Research Methodology and African Studies Section), Association of Third World Studies (President, 2001-02; UN Ambassador, 2002-04), American Political Science Association, Linguistic Society of America, Mathematical Association of America, Policy Studies Organization, Awards and RecognitionsDr. Bangura’s contributions have been widely recognized with numerous awards, including: Distinguished Scholar Award – Middle Atlantic Writers Association (1995), African Excellence in Scholarship Award – African Studies and Research Forum (2001), the Dubai International Award (2006), Outstanding Scholar Award – Association of Third World Studies (2006), Multiple grants from the U.S. Department of Education and National Science Foundation.
The Anambra State Government has sealed a popular church known as “Children of the Light Anointing Ministry” run by Pastor Onyebuchi Okocha, also known as “Onye Eze Jesus”, over alleged involvement in controversial “Oke-ite” traditional practice.
The church located in Amafor village, Nkpor in Idemili North Local Government Area of the state was sealed by operatives of the state security outfit, “Agunechemba” during their visit to the premises on Sunday.
During the visit to the site, some substances including containers and other items were found at the premises.
This was disclosed in a post on the Anambra State government X handle on Sunday.
This development, it was gathered marked the third high-profile crackdown on “quick riches” spiritualists in Anambra, following the crackdown and arrests of popular native doctors and individuals engaged in “Oke-ite” practices.
The state authorities also sealed some of their shrines for engaging in such activities.
It was gathered that “Oke Ite” is a concoction made from human parts, animals, and herbs mixed in a mud pot and used for money rituals and the state authorities have identified it as a fraudulent scheme used by native doctors to deceive unsuspecting victims.Related News
Ken Emeakayi, the Special Adviser to the Anambra State governor, Chukwuma Soludo, on Community Security, also announced the closure of the church while leading members of “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” to the site.
Emeakayi stated that the action was taken in response to public complaints and a video where the pastor allegedly admitted to practising “Oke Ite” and other dubious rituals.
He said, “The state government will conduct forensic tests on liquid substances found at the ministry. While the state government does not oppose any religious practice, it will not tolerate those that promote a ‘get-rich-quick’ mentality.
“Additionally, forensic experts will analyse samples from River Bethsaida, where the spiritualist, also known as ‘Aka na Asa Uchu’, is said to conduct baths for individuals.
“The investigation aims to determine any potential health hazards associated with the practice. The Anambra State government remains committed to curbing fraudulent religious and ritualistic practices in the state.”
The spiritualist was said to have gained popularity for his style of taking followers to a river in Nkpor.
Globally acclaimed and award-winning Nigerian author, Chimamanda Adichie, has revealed that she gave birth to twin boys in 2024, adding to her family, including her nine-year-old daughter.
In a recent interview, Adichie spoke about the intense curiosity surrounding her life, the profound losses she has experienced, and the challenges of balancing motherhood with her writing career.
Adichie, who has kept the details of her private life under wraps, revealed that she was always cautious about revealing too much, particularly when it came to her family.
“I want to protect my children,” she explained. “I’m OK with having them mentioned, but I don’t want the piece to become about them,” she shared.
She was said to have further expressed her resistance to sharing personal details with the public, stating that for a long time, people didn’t even know she had a husband, Ivara Esege, a hospital physician, whom she married in 2009, but kept that information largely out of the media spotlight.
Explaining why she keeps her private life hidden, Adichie was quoted as saying, “So, here’s the thing, Nigerians are… they want to know about your personal life. Because of that, I am resistant. I very rarely talk about it.”
At the age of 47, which she reportedly described as a “grand old age” and that “I always forget how old I am. I’m not even joking,” Adichie juggled the pressures of motherhood with the demands of finishing her long-awaited novel—a task she had not anticipated taking so long.
Her return to fiction with Dream Count features the interconnected lives of four women and explores themes like the immigrant experience, the relationship between Africans and African Americans, and the societal pressures surrounding motherhood and marriage.
Reflecting on her decade-long break from fiction, Adichie reportedly opened up about how motherhood caused a creative block that left her feeling disconnected from her writing.
She was quoted as saying, “I didn’t want to leave such a long gap between novels. When I got pregnant [with her daughter], something just happened. I had a number of years in which I was almost existentially frightened that I wouldn’t write again. It was unbearable.
“There are expressions like ‘writer’s block’ I don’t like to use because I’m superstitious. But I had many years in which I felt cast out from my creative self, cast out from the part of me that imagines and creates; I just could not reach it. I could write nonfiction, and that was fine. But that’s not what my heart wanted.”
The breakthrough reportedly came when she was writing Notes on Grief, her memoir about the death of her father in 2020.
“When her father died of kidney failure, she was in her fiction-not-being-available-to-me phase, but as she struggled for the language to write Notes on Grief (2021), she noticed that something had loosened,” the report read.
It continued, “There was a willingness to let go, she says, to surrender control; a feeling similar to the way she’d felt writing fiction. She wasn’t doing anything different – not physically, at least.
“She was still “scrunched up” with her laptop on her ottoman in the corner of her bedroom. If anything was different, it was how much wiser she felt; how “hyper-aware of how fleeting life is. It makes you think about your own mortality, but also, ‘What do I care about? What matters?’”
Adichie was said to have been initially unsure if she could write about her mother, who passed away in 2021 as “there was nothing,” when she tried it head-on.
However, as she worked on Dream Count, she gradually realised that the novel was a tribute to her late mother.
“Only when I was almost done did I realise, my God, it’s about my mother. It wasn’t intentional. I’m happy that it’s not a sad book. She wouldn’t want a sad book dedicated to her,” Adichie was quoted as saying.
It was reported that Dream Count is scheduled for release on 3 March 2025 as the highly anticipated new work will be published in the UK and the Commonwealth by 4th Estate, and in the US and Canada by Knopf.
Today, it is a pleasure to celebrate Sir Oyoze Baje, a man whose life is a testament to intellectual curiosity, firm dedication, and a spirit that refuses to be confined by boundaries.
As President of the Guild of Public Affairs Analysts of Nigeria (GPAAN) and Chairman/CEO of Oyoze Creative Concept, he embodies the power of creativity and the importance of critical analysis in shaping our world.
Having earned national prominence as a regular panelist on Galaxy Television’s highly-regarded Editors’ Forum, captivating viewers with his insights every Saturday for over a decade.
His engagement on that platform, along with contributions to MiTV’s weekly programme, The SUMMIT, and LTV’s morning show, sparked a desire to cultivate a community of public affairs experts.
Driven by this inspiration, he founded the Guild of Public Affairs Analysts of Nigeria (GPAAN), a Non-Governmental Organisation registered with the CAC on November 2, 2017.
Oyoze Baje, the son of a famous farmer and philosopher, Elder Sadiku Umeche Jatto, and the mother, a cloth-weaver and trader in food products, Madam Awawau Ormeyi Sadiku hails from Oboroke-Ihima, Kogi State.
He was married to Princess Medinat Baje (Late) and blessed with four children – Jimmy, Oiza, Joy, and Sunday. He never fails to acknowledge his parent’s influence on how he comports himself and his affairs, here is an excerpt from Sir Oyoze during his 70th Birthday interview “.
Oyoze Baje: Relishing life at 72
“My heart swells with gratitude when I speak of my parents, now resting in peace. Perhaps it seems I’m singing their praises, but I assure you, they were truly extraordinary individuals.
They embodied discipline, resourcefulness, creativity, unwavering diligence, and absolute honesty. Their home was a haven of hospitality, always open to all, regardless of tribe or creed.
They painted for me a vivid portrait of true manhood: a life centered on self-discovery, treating every soul with the same respect and kindness you desire for yourself, and embracing humility, no matter how towering your successes become.
His student has this to say, she speaks of Sir Ayo as a man of rare brilliance, an iconic figure whose diligence, discipline, and passion for knowledge have left an indelible mark on generations.
Olori Lizzy Akinsolotu (née Nyamida), one of his former students, recalls his exceptional versatility as an educator. She describes him as a man who believed that anything worth doing was worth doing well.
Back in their school days, his depth of knowledge was so profound that students often wondered what subject he had been officially assigned to teach.
He seamlessly stepped in to cover Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Fine Art, Mathematics, and English whenever needed. Beyond academics, Oyoze Baje introduced clubs that shaped many careers—Writing and Creativity Club, Quiz and Debating Society, Fine Art Club, and Dramatic Club, among others.
Above all, Sir Baje was a disciplinarian, instilling values that guided his students long after they left his tutelage. His ability to blend warmth with firm guidance made him an unparalleled mentor. As Lizzy reflects, “Ever since, I have never seen your match.”
Sir Oyoze Baje, you are a beacon of inspiration to us all. May your life be filled with joy, purpose, and the unwavering support of those who admire and love you. Happy Birthday!
Elon Musk’s Starlink has already transformed global internet access, but now it’s taking connectivity a step further. The latest innovation—Direct-to-Cell—enables standard iPhones and Android phones to make calls from anywhere on Earth, without requiring additional hardware.
This development could change the way we think about mobile networks. Picture yourself deep in a remote jungle, out at sea, or hiking in a desert—all places where cell towers are nonexistent. Thanks to Starlink’s expanding satellite infrastructure, soon you won’t have to worry about losing signal ever again.
No New Devices Needed—Just Your Smartphone
Unlike traditional satellite phones, which require bulky equipment and specialized SIM cards, Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service works with any LTE-enabled smartphone. This means that if your phone can connect to a 4G network, it will be able to tap into Starlink’s satellites for calls, text messages, and eventually, even data services.
A report to the FCC confirms that Starlink has already tested its service on leading smartphone brands, including Apple, Samsung, and Google. The results? Crystal-clear calls from urban centers to isolated regions, proving that satellite connectivity can seamlessly integrate with existing mobile networks.
A Lifeline for Emergencies and Everyday Use
While this advancement is great news for travelers and adventurers, it’s also a potential game-changer for emergency responders and people in rural areas with unreliable service. Current satellite phone systems often come with severe limitations—restricting users to pre-set messaging formats or requiring expensive, dedicated hardware.
With Starlink’s system, users can send fully customizable messages using their preferred apps. This flexibility could make all the difference in an emergency, allowing for clearer communication than ever before.
What’s Next for Starlink’s Satellite Calling Service ?
Starlink plans to roll out its Direct-to-Cell service as part of a commercial package, though pricing details are still under wraps. But Musk’s ambitions go far beyond simple voice calls. According to the FCC filing, Starlink is already exploring satellite-powered web browsing, IoT integration, and enhanced voice communication.
The broader impact? This technology could bridge the connectivity gap in underserved regions, giving people in rural communities the same access to reliable, high-quality mobile service as those in major cities.
A Future Without Dead Zones?
For those accustomed to flawless fiber-optic internet, Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service may not seem like a huge leap. But for the billions of people still struggling with patchy coverage, this innovation could be life-changing.
Elon Musk’s vision of a fully connected world is inching closer to reality. Whether you’re working remotely from the mountains, sailing across the Pacific, or simply living in a rural area with poor reception, Starlink’s satellite connectivity could redefine mobile communication as we know it.
In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.
This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives.
Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike.
Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted.
These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated.
“Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated.
He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed.
“The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added.
In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities.
LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions.
The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862
In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.
This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives.
Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike.
Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted.
These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated.
“Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated.
He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed.
“The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added.
In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities.
LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions.
The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862LASTMA Clapdown On Traffic Violators, Impounds 125 Commercial Vehicles, 48 Private Cars In a resolute and uncompromising enforcement initiative designed to restore traffic discipline and facilitate the unhindered movement of vehicles, operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended 125 recalcitrant commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles for flagrant violations, including unauthorized parking and severe road obstructions. This sweeping crackdown was executed across notorious gridlock-prone corridors such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo. This rigorous enforcement underscores LASTMA’s unwavering commitment to eradicating chronic traffic congestion and mitigating reckless road practices, particularly among commercial transport operators and private motorists who flout established regulations. A significant number of the offenders were caught engaging in perilous maneuvers, such as driving against traffic (one-way) and executing hazardous reversals from Iddo to Idumota to pick up passengers—reckless actions that have precipitated multiple road accidents and senseless loss of lives. Spearheading this decisive operation was the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, acting under the strategic directive of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa. The initiative specifically targeted unauthorized garages that have long served as catalysts for intractable gridlocks, inflicting undue hardship on commuters and residents alike. Reaffirming that this crackdown represents an ongoing and sustained effort, Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized its alignment with the overarching vision of the Lagos State Government to optimize the efficiency of the metropolis’ transportation infrastructure.
“The state government remains resolute in its enforcement of traffic regulations and the restoration of order on our roads. The proliferation of illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions by both commercial and private vehicles continues to be a formidable impediment to our goal of achieving seamless mobility within Lagos,” he asserted. These stringent enforcement measures serve as an unequivocal warning to all road users that flagrant disregard for traffic laws will no longer be tolerated. “Our ultimate objective is to cultivate a transportation ecosystem that is safe, orderly, and highly efficient for all road users. This enforcement drive represents a pivotal step toward actualizing that vision,” Mr. Bakare-Oki reiterated. He further highlighted that notorious congestion hotspots such as Iddo to Idumota, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and the Adeniji Adele roundabout have been perpetually plagued by illegal parking and the proliferation of makeshift garages—an issue that must be decisively addressed. “The indiscriminate operations of commercial bus drivers not only obstruct vehicular movement but also constitute a grave hazard to pedestrian safety. LASTMA’s intervention is imperative to dismantle these bottlenecks and facilitate seamless traffic circulation in these critical locations,” he added. In response to this initiative, residents and business owners have expressed strong approval, acknowledging its profound impact on easing daily commutes and revitalizing commercial activities. LASTMA has assured the public that this operation will be systematically extended to other areas afflicted by unauthorized parking and related infractions. The General Manager urged all motorists to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid punitive measures. Additionally, he called on the general public to actively contribute to maintaining order by promptly reporting abandoned or broken-down trailers and trucks to LASTMA via the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862
