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2027 : Utomi, Falana, Bugaje, others form new coalition

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A wide-ranging alliance of political figures, civil society leaders, labour representatives and pro-democracy activists has unveiled a new national platform dedicated to overhauling Nigeria’s troubled electoral system.

 

The initiative, called the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), emerged from the 2025 National Political Summit on Credible Elections and Political Stability of Nigeria, which took place on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

The summit was convened by the National Consultative Front (NCFront) in collaboration with the Labour & Civil Society Front (LCSF), drawing more than 600 participants from political parties, public institutions, the private sector, diaspora networks, academia and civic organisations. With the private sector, diaspora networks, academia and civic organisations. With the theme “Critical & Mandatory Constitutional Amendments for Credible Elections in 2027,” the gathering sought to outline a unified national blueprint for electoral reforms ahead of the next general election.

 

Messages were delivered by former President Goodluck Jonathan; former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo; Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf; former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi; and former presidential candidate Peter Obi. Also participating were NLC President Joe Ajaero; Pat Utomi, who chaired the organising committee; former Minister and keynote speaker Oby Ezekwesili; Shehu Sani; IPAC Chairman Mamman Dantalle; Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim; and legal practitioner Adewole Adebayo.

Much of the conversation centred on Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and the potential implications for the 2027 polls. Participants cited external warnings — including those attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump — as evidence that the country’s political stability is under serious strain.

 

Contributors argued that the unchecked rise in banditry, terrorism and violent crime has weakened state authority and created an environment where non-state actors flourish. They warned that the government’s inability to guarantee basic security has left the nation vulnerable to foreign interference.

 

Delegates also said the deteriorating security climate poses a direct threat to the next general elections, cautioning that many communities could be unreachable unless swift reforms are enacted. Several speakers maintained that credible elections cannot occur when citizens are displaced, intimidated

or denied access to polling centres.

 

Participants further faulted Nigeria’s political parties, accusing them of weak internal democracy and abuse of candidate-selection processes. According to speakers, these failings have transformed parties into vehicles for transactional politics rather than institutions that produce capable leaders, contributing to a broader governance breakdown.

 

Stakeholders at the summit jointly denounced the entrenched practices of rigging, vote buying, ballot snatching, suppression of voters, manipulation of results and the extensive litigation that follows nearly every election. They argued that unless these behaviours are eliminated, the integrity of the 2027 elections will remain questionable.

 

Speakers also noted that public trust in the electoral process has eroded, with outcomes often failing to reflect actual votes cast. Many referenced past instances where judicial rulings — rather than citizen ballots — determined winners, which they said has discouraged voter participation and weakened democracy.

 

Following extensive deliberations, the summit endorsed a series of reform proposals aimed at reengineering Nigeria’s electoral infrastructure.

 

A major focus was the need for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to receive funding directly from the Federation Account to limit undue influence. Stakeholders also called for INEC to adopt an open budgeting system that allows civil society oversight of its expenditures.

 

Participants insisted that INEC must be constitutionally empowered to prosecute electoral offenders without depending on the Police or the Attorney-General’s office. They urged lawmakers to legalise early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting and real-time electronic transmission of results, saying these measures would significantly curb manipulation.“Early voting, diaspora voting, electronic voting, and real-time electronic transmission of results should be made legally mandatory to reduce or eradicate manipulation and circumvention of election results,” they said.

 

Delegates also pressed for reforms to the appointment process of INEC commissioners, arguing that the task should be removed from the Executive and handed to a diverse set of respected national actors. They condemned the current trend where courts decide final outcomes, calling it a distortion that undermines trust.

 

The summit further sought constitutional provisions for special seats for women and vulnerable groups, stating that: “The National Assembly should be compelled to provide for special seats for women and other vulnerable groups in the constitution to be elected and participate in governance.”

 

Another proposal was to shift the burden of proof in election petitions from candidates to INEC, which would be required to defend the results it announces.

 

A highlight of the event was the official rollout of the Movement for Credible Elections (MCE), designed as a broad citizen-driven platform mobilising Nigerians to demand clean elections and counter attempts at manipulation ahead of 2027.

 

The movement aims to build alliances across regions, professions and political interests, making electoral fraud both socially unacceptable and politically costly.

 

A 23-member Interim Steering Council was inaugurated to guide the new movement. Pat Utomi will chair the council, with former NLC  President Ayuba Wabba serving as co-chair.

 

Other prominent members include Usman Bugaje (Deputy Chair, North), Nkoyo Toyo (Deputy Chair, South), human rights lawyer Femi Falana, Shehu Sani, Ankio Briggs, Bilikisu Magoro, Ene Obi and Peter Ameh.

 

The communiqué was signed by James Ezema, who was named Media Coordinator, while Olawale Okunniyi will lead the secretariat.

 

Additional members — including youth leaders, finance directors, mobilisation coordinators and communication specialists — were also announced. They are Alex Adum; Promise Adewusi, Director of Administration; Chris Uyot, Director of Mobilisation; Hamisu Turaki, Director of Mobilisation; Chris Iyovwaye, Director of Finance; Chris Azor, Director of Mobilisation; Mark Adebayo, Director of Mobilisation; Mustapha Nwaokobia, Director of Communications; Peter Akah, Director of Publicity; Kamal Ahmed, Youth Coordinator; and Hauwa Mustapha, Deputy Head of Secretariat.

 

(PREMIUM TIMES)

Quit illicit drug trade now or get ready for more hard time, Marwa warns barons, cartels

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

Thanks President Tinubu for his reappointment to continue ongoing efforts against drug menace

 

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) has warned drug barons, traffickers and their cartels to quit the criminal trade or face more hard time during his second tenure.

Marwa who was reappointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second tenure of five years on Friday 14th November 2025 told jubilating management staff, officers, men and women of the Agency who gathered to welcome him at its National Headquarters in Abuja following the presidential announcement that his second tenure will be hell and bleak for those who fail to quit the illicit drug trade. He expressed appreciation to the president for the recognition of ongoing efforts against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the country.

 

 

“First of all, what a surprise, I did not expect to come back from jumat service to meet these great felicitations, dancing and singing by our personnel. Thank you very much. We would like to thank the almighty God, because always the glory has to go to Him for everything. We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and the new mandate for us to continue with the war against drug abuse and trafficking. I thank the management, officers, men and women of the agency, who continue to provide service to the nation 24/7, in spite of the risks that you all face”, he stated.

He also acknowledged the unflinching support by the Hon. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and the Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun while also expressing thanks to “all our local and international partners, with whom we have continued to collaborate towards ridding Nigeria of illicit substances.”

For the drug cartels, Marwa has a message: “First, this word must go to the cartels. The cartels have not seen anything yet. I promise them this second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria.” He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment towards President Tinubu’s mandate, assuring that “in line with our Act, we will continue to do our level best. I remember in my inaugural speech, the day I took over, and I said very clearly that NDLEA will be feared by the drug cartels. And that’s just the beginning.”

“At the same time, I must appeal to those who are engaged in illicit drug trafficking that this is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate. It is in line with that that we established the Alternative Development Unit, which seeks to persuade those who are perpetrating the illicit drug activities, particularly cannabis growers, who are our greatest challenge in Nigeria, to desist from the habit, collaborate with us. We are going to support towards licit cultivation of crops that are legitimate, legal, and you can sleep with your two eyes closed.

 

 

“But those who refuse to do that can be sure that the NDLEA is up and able on its task of law enforcement. You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. So, you come out from jail, there will be nothing left.”

He also assured that the Agency will remain committed to its drug demand reduction efforts. “I’ll take the opportunity again to announce the rededication of our efforts towards prevention, sensitization, counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation of our children in our 30 rehabilitation centres. And with the support of the President and the Renewed Hope Agenda, seven more rehab centres are coming up under the 2025 budget that will now make every state to have its own rehab centre.

“And as well, there will be zonal rehab, more rehab centres and we are getting full collaboration from the Honorable Minister of Health. We appreciate his efforts also, and the Honorable Minister of Education, who has accepted our recommendation for drug tests for our children on admission to tertiary institutions, so that with this we can catch them young before it gets into addiction stage. May the Almighty God bless our President, bless all those that are supporting us, bless the officers, men and women of NDLEA.”

Wike speaks on clash with naval officer, says Obasanjo, T.Y. Danjuma contacted him over land issue

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has broken his silence on the recent confrontation with a naval officer, Lieutenant A.M. Yerima, concerning a disputed plot of land reportedly owned by former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd).

Speaking to journalists on Thursday ahead of the FCT Executive Council meeting, Wike criticised what he described as the retired naval chief’s “impunity” for deploying serving officers to protect the contested property.

Responding to those who questioned his decision to personally visit the site, the minister said he could not ignore reports of government officials being assaulted while carrying out their duties.

“How can I sit as a minister when government officials are being attacked and beaten up, officials at the level of directors? And I’ll just sit in my office doing what?” he asked.

Earlier reports indicated that Wike and Lieutenant Yerima had engaged in a heated exchange on Tuesday at Plot 1946, Gaduwa District, Abuja — a piece of land said to belong to the retired naval chief. The minister accused Gambo of illegally developing the property and condemned the alleged assault on Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) staff who attempted to stop the ongoing construction.

Addressing the issue further, the former Rivers State governor decried the use of military personnel to obstruct lawful enforcement by FCT officials.

“Many influential Nigerians have had similar land issues. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, a former head of state and president, will simply call me. He’ll say, ‘Minister, I have a problem on this land, can you help?’ and I’ll solve it.

“That is a former head of state — a former president — who has the courtesy to call the minister. General T.Y. Danjuma will do the same. They never sent soldiers to attack anybody. They just call,” Wike said.

He also faulted the naval officer for allegedly referring to police officers on the scene as “bloody police.”

“Nobody talks like that. A security man saying, ‘Bloody police! Who are these bloody police that will talk to you?’ You say you’re a commissioned officer, to God be the glory, but it is these same government officials you’re beating — the ones who made you what you are,” he stated.

Wike, however, clarified that his actions were not targeted at the Nigerian military as an institution, stressing that he holds deep respect for the armed forces.

“I have respect for the military, and I’ll continue to respect them. I know what the institution stands for. I’m not a fool; I went to school. So anyone trying to suggest I have problems with them is wrong. I have no problem with the military, and I never will. Why would I have issues with the government? But this is a private matter,” he said.

Libya deports 80 Nigerians

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Libyan authorities have repatriated 80 Nigerian nationals who were detained in different holding centres across the country as part of an ongoing operation aimed at tackling irregular migration and easing congestion in detention facilities.

The exercise was coordinated by Libya’s Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM) in partnership with the Nigerian Consulate in Tripoli. The deported migrants were flown out of the country via Mitiga International Airport on Wednesday.

Migrant Rescue Watch, an organisation that monitors migrant welfare and human rights issues in Libya, confirmed the development, noting that the deportation was carried out following directives from the Libyan Judicial Police.

In a post shared on X on Wednesday, the group stated, “Judicial Police Dept. on orders of Public Prosecutor’s Office transferred a group of undocumented migrant females of Nigerian nationality to DCIM custody in Tripoli. All females were served with judicial deportation order and are awaiting deportation.”

The organisation added that the latest group of returnees included some migrants previously transferred under judicial orders.

“#Libya 11.11.25 – DCIM with Nigerian consular support, repatriated 80 migrants of Nigerian nationality via Mitiga Int. Airport in Tripoli. The group includes migrants transferred by the Judicial Police who were served with judicial deportation order,” the statement read.

The deportation is part of renewed collaborative efforts between Libyan authorities and diplomatic missions to address the presence of undocumented migrants and improve conditions in the country’s overcrowded detention facilities.

NDLEA strengthens maritime operations, sends officers on advanced training in UK

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By Ebinum Samuel

Building our officers’ technical capacity is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, says Marwa

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has strengthened its maritime surveillance and interdiction capabilities following the successful completion of a week working visit to the United Kingdom by officers from the Agency’s Directorate of Seaport Operations.
The six-man team led by Deputy Commander Narcotics (DCN) Aminu Danjuma Jega, undertook the strategic engagement between 19th and 25th October 2025 under the guidance of Mr. Errol Flynn Macdonald of the UK Home Office International Operations, during which they visited key British maritime and border enforcement facilities, where they were exposed to valuable international best practices in maritime intelligence, port security and inter-agency coordination.
The second part of the training on Advanced Container Targeting was conducted for additional 19 NDLEA officers in Lagos between Monday 10th and Thursday 13th November 2025 by HOIO Intelligence team. Both the UK training tour and the Lagos residential five-day training were sponsored by the UK Home Office International Operations.
The NDLEA delegation held extensive discussions with officials of the UK Border Force, the National Crime Agency (NCA), Home Office Intelligence, the National Maritime Security Centre, and the Joint Maritime Security Centre in Portsmouth, among others.

 

During the engagements, the team received comprehensive presentations by the UK National Deep Rummaging Team, which showcased modern techniques and procedures for vessel rummage operations aimed at detecting and preventing illicit drug trafficking through sea routes. The officers also witnessed live demonstration sessions at Tilbury and Felixstowe Ports, where inward-bound containers from Nigeria were subjected to layered inspection and risk-based screening procedures.
Another key highlight of the visit was the introduction and demonstration of the Advanced Sea Searcher System, a state-of-the-art underwater detection technology used for locating concealed contraband and drug consignments beneath ships and port structures. The system’s capacity for high-precision underwater searches was identified as a game-changer in maritime interdiction, offering significant potential for NDLEA’s future operations along Nigeria’s coastal and port environments.
In his post-training presentation to the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), the leader of the delegation Jega noted that the international exposure had deepened his team’s understanding of intelligence-led maritime enforcement, stressing that lessons learnt from the visit would enhance NDLEA’s operational synergy with other maritime and security agencies in Nigeria.

 

“We were exposed to advanced tools, data-sharing models, and inter-agency coordination frameworks that will significantly improve our maritime intelligence gathering and port surveillance operations. The practical demonstrations we witnessed, particularly in vessel rummage and underwater detection, are invaluable to NDLEA’s ongoing efforts to counter transnational drug trafficking through our seaports,” he stated.
In his response, Marwa commended the officers for representing Nigeria well during the training tour. He reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to continuous capacity building and adoption of cutting-edge technologies in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
“Maritime routes remain critical in global drug trafficking networks. Strengthening our officers’ technical capacity and intelligence integration with our international partners is essential to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders. The lessons from this UK engagement will be vital in enhancing NDLEA’s effectiveness in intercepting drug consignments at sea and ensuring safer maritime operations,” Marwa stated.
The NDLEA boss said the Agency would continue to deepen collaboration with the UK Home Office International Operations and other global law enforcement partners as part of ongoing efforts to combat transnational organized crime linked to illicit drugs.

Lagos Police Gender Unit shielding Lebanese accused of defiling children

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By Juliana Francis

A major confrontation unfolded at the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command in Ikeja on Thursday, November 8, 2025, as a high-profile child defilement case involving a Lebanese took a disturbing turn.

Ms Lolade Ajayi, Executive Director of DOHS Cares Foundation, intervened to prevent the police from allegedly releasing a Lebanese national accused of sexually abusing multiple minors, a suspect known to the children as “Uncle Cobus.”

DOHS Cares Foundation, an organisation championing the rights of women, children, and vulnerable groups, has been closely following the case, which it fears may be connected to a larger child sex trafficking ring.

The child was also taken to a psychologist because of the trauma she suffered, where she consistently maintained her story until the most recent visit to the Ikeja Gender Unit.

Medical experts at Mirabel Centre, LASUTH, said that the child was repeatedly violated.

Security News Alert learned that the Lebanese individual, under the guise of philanthropy and sponsoring children’s education, had sexually abused more than eight children.

 

Disturbing Development at the Police Station

 

The Thursday incident, occurred when the young victim was brought to the station with her father, as well as her mother, who is estranged from the father and allegedly introduced the child to the suspect.

According to Ajayi, the child, who had previously maintained a consistent account of sexual violation and even led investigators to the suspect’s home, suddenly changed her story.

This shift happened after she was taken into a police office and questioned without the presence of her father, legal counsel, or any human rights advocate.

She came out from the police office, crying and recanted a story she had maintained since April when the defilement was uncovered.

“This child had previously led investigators to the suspect’s house, described other victims, and undergone medical tests confirming sexual abuse,” Ajayi stated. “Suddenly, she denies it all. Something is wrong.”

Ajayi expressed concern that the child may have been coerced or intimidated into recanting her statement by the police or the mother.

This action of taking the child into an office and facing police personnel alone, directly violates the Child Rights Act (CRA) and international standards, which mandate that a parent, guardian, or child protection officer must be present during the questioning of a minor.

According to Ajayi, instead of detaining the alleged perpetrator, the police reportedly treated the suspect likr a royalty and were preparing to release him, citing the absence of the Commissioner of Police.

“I shouted, ‘No! This man must not go. He is a sexual abuser! Ajayi recounted, insisting that under Lagos State law, a suspect in a child defilement case must be detained immediately pending investigation and prosecution.

During the heated confrontation, the child’s mother allegedly assaulted Ajayi, causing a swollen mouth and a bleeding wrist.

Despite her injuries, Ajayi maintained her protest, forcing officers to take the suspect back into custody.

However, the situation escalated when a police officer was seen escorting the suspect out in a jeep bearing a Federal Government number plate.

Ajayi claims the police told her the suspect was being taken to the Commissioner of Police, but the Officer-in-Charge left abruptly.

She fears this is another attempt to secure his release, noting that the suspect has a history of allegedly leveraging connections, including the Department of State Services (DSS), to intimidate the victim’s family and derail the case.

Background: How the Story Started

The allegations against the foreign national first came to light in April, when the victim’s father became a whistle-blower after discovering his daughter had been repeatedly defiled.

According to the child’s account, her relative took her twice to “Uncle Cobus’s” residence.

She saw approximately nine other girls her age on the first visit. She alleges the suspect forced her to play with his genitals and later penetrated her.

When she confided in her mother, Bunmi, estranged from her father, Stephen, the mother allegedly urged her not to tell the father, defending the suspect as a philanthropist running an NGO who pays school fees for children.

The abuse was uncovered when the girl began exhibiting inappropriate behaviour at home. When questioned, she described the abuse and mentioned how other children were also taken to the suspect’s home to “play in the swimming room.”

Before the father could confront the suspect, he was summoned to the DSS office in the Shangisha area of over a petition alleging defamation, despite the DSS invitation stating the meeting was to investigate the alleged molestation.

Ajayi strongly condemned the DSS’s involvement, accusing the agency of straying from its national security mandate to meddle in a serious criminal case.

“Why is DSS handling a defilement case? The defamation claim is spurious. This is a rape case, not a matter for mediation,” Ajayi said.

“We fear this may be part of a larger child sex trafficking ring. Justice must not be derailed.”

Ajayi is calling on the media and the public to monitor the case closely, sharing photos and the suspect’s license plate number to ensure the case is not buried.

“This perpetrator must not go scot-free,” she declared. “Even if my blood is spilt, justice must be served!”

Ajayi said the most disturbing revelation is that both the DSS and the Police Gender Unit appear to be shielding the identity of the foreign suspect, refusing to disclose his full name to either the human rights activist or the victim’s father.

Ms. Ajayi voiced two primary concerns regarding the ongoing case. Firstly, she worries about the trauma endured by the child victim.

Secondly, she fears that the case may be truncated by law enforcement agents.

Ajayi alleges that the agents are not interested in securing justice for the child but are instead focused on protecting the alleged perpetrator and concealing his identity.

Ajayi also expressed concern that the Lebanese suspect’s philanthropic organisation has not been shut down.

She believes that because this organisation is still operational, more children are likely being sexually violated while the suspect continues to operate freely, in clear violation of Lagos State laws concerning child protection.

The matter has been ongoing since April, and according to Ajayi, law enforcement agents are continually slowing the process of justice.

She notes that the Lebanese suspect has evaded arrest and detention since April. His modus operandi, according to Ajayi, is to use his lawyer to inform law enforcement that he is out of the country, all while he allegedly remains free in Nigeria.

Accusations of unprofessionalism against the Gender Unit of the Lagos State Police Command are recurrent, but the police leadership has always maintained a pattern of silence.

 

The Officer in Charge of the Gender Unit at the Lagos State Police Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police Ms Toyin Kazeem, has refuted claims regarding the release of the suspect.

Speaking to Security News Alert, Kazeem stated that the allegation was false.

She also denied reports suggesting that the child involved was coerced by the Police into retracting her statement about the alleged actions of the Lebanese suspect.

“These allegations are extremely far from the truth, please.

“You are welcome to bring all parties to the Commissioner of Police’s interview to get a clearer picture.”

She, however, did not give a date or time for the parties to meet with the CP.

When Kazeem was asked the name of the alleged perpetrator, she said, “You know I cannot divulge information about cases under investigation.”

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kazeem declined to provide further details on the case, directing the reporter to obtain the official facts from the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Superintendent of Police (SP) Abimbola Adebisi.

 

When the reporter contacted SP Adebisi on November 9th, she confirmed that the Lebanese national had been arrested.

However, she stated she did not have the complete story regarding the defilement allegations.

Adebisi explained that she would not have the full facts until the following Monday, when she would be in the office, and asked the reporter to meet her at her office on Tuesday at 1pm.

On Monday, the reporter reached out to confirm the Tuesday appointment. SP Adebisi replied that she was unwell and would not be coming to the office.

Following this delay, the reporter informed Adebisi that she would proceed with publishing the first part of the story immediately and would incorporate Adebisi’s official facts regarding the defilement incident, representing the police side, in a subsequent Part Two publication.

Appeal To Governor Bababeji Sanwoolu On Eti-Osa Roads

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By EBUN-OLU ADEGBORUWA, SAN

 

 

I join the good people of Lagos State to commend the Lagos State Government on infrastructure development, especially in the area of road construction.

It is gratifying that the Lagos-Epe Expressway has progressed without stoppage.

However, the announcement of commencement of comprehensive repairs of the main sections of the road require drastic measures that will ease the expected traffic congestion and the pains that people will go through. The sections to be affected by the repairs are the busiest portions of the road.

I therefore humbly suggest the following measures:

1. Permanent traffic officers should be stationed at major sections of the road during the period of the repairs, to manage traffic.

2. Emergency medical services along the road corridor should be maintained, to cater for cases that may require urgent medical attention.

3. Effective collaboration between federal and Lagos State authorities to open the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as alternative route for motorists.

4. Accelerate the construction of the Lekki Regional Road to ease traffic congestion on the main expressway.

5. Consider late night hours for serious repairs works and movement of heavy machinery and equipment.

Given the peculiar terrain of the Eti-Osa area, government should consider more lasting road maintenance mechanisms that may involve either concrete or interlocking paving stones to achieve maximum efficiency and durability.

With the humongous amount of money comikg into the coffers of Lagos State from the federetion account and IGR, a permanent solution to road construction and maintenance should not be difficult to attain.

God bless Lagos State.

God bless Nigeria.

Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN

Lekki, Lagos.

CELEBRATING AMALA DAY WITH FOUNDER, ADEOLA ALAMALA

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By Ayo Oyoze Baje

 

 

Quote:

“Our goal is to bring the experience of home-cooked Nigerian food to more people, one community at a time. By this, we are
celebrating culture and culinary excellence”

-Olorunsomo Smart Adeola, aka Alamalla ( during the event. at the brand-new AAU Campus Outlet in Ekpoma.)

In a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and community spirit, Amala Spot with Adeola Alamala recently hosted the much-anticipated Amala Day 2025, followed closely by the grand opening of its brand-new AAU Campus Outlet in Ekpoma. The events, held on Friday, 31st October, and Saturday, 1st November 2025, with the outlet officially opening on Monday, 10th November 2025, marked a major milestone for the fast-growing local food brand known for its authentic Nigerian dishes and warm customer experience.

Amala Day 2025 wasn’t just another food event it was a festival of culture, taste, and togetherness. For two full days, from 12 PM to 8 PM, the atmosphere at Amala Spot on Sec School Road, Ujemen, Ekpoma, was filled with excitement, laughter, and the irresistible aroma of freshly served Amala, Ewedu, and Gbegiri.

Customers trooped in large numbers, eager to partake in the special 20% discount offered throughout the event. From students to working professionals and local food lovers, everyone came together to celebrate the timeless Nigerian delicacy that unites people across generations.

Olorunsomo Smart Adeola, popularly known as Adeola Alamala, is a graduate of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, from the Department of Medical Laboratory Science. Long before his university days, he had already been actively involved in the food industry, where he developed a strong passion for culinary excellence and customer satisfaction.

 

 

Adeola Alamala, the passionate founder and face behind Amala Spot, described the event as “a moment to celebrate our roots, appreciate our customers, and introduce new faces to the real taste of Amala done right.”

Guests were treated to well-prepared meals featuring the perfect blend of soft Amala, rich Ewedu soup, and the flavorful Gbegiri option. Many attendees commended the brand for maintaining high food standards and consistency while creating an environment that felt like home.

Beyond the delicious food, Amala Day was also about community connection. Adeola and the team interacted directly with customers, creating a friendly, family-like atmosphere. There were light games, cheerful moments, and even spontaneous dance sessions that kept the energy alive throughout the event.

What truly stood out was the spirit of togetherness Amala Spot successfully turned an ordinary weekend into a memory-filled culinary celebration. Patrons expressed their satisfaction, with many sharing positive feedback on social media and promising to return with friends.

One student attendee commented, “Amala Spot isn’t just a food place anymore; it’s a vibe. Adeola and the team made everyone feel special.”

The two-day festival didn’t just end with satisfied customers it also built momentum for something bigger: the expansion of Amala Spot into new territory.

The Launch of Amala Spot AAU Campus Outlet

Barely a week after the successful Amala Day, Amala Spot with Adeola Alamala took another bold step by launching its AAU Campus Outlet on Monday, 10th November 2025, at 2:00 PM, located before Igbinedion Hostel, AAU Campus, Ekpoma.

This new branch, designed as a “Take-Out Only” outlet, represents the brand’s innovative approach to convenience and accessibility for students and staff within the Ambrose Alli University community. The opening day featured a 10% discount on all take-out orders, drawing a crowd of enthusiastic customers eager to be among the first to experience the new spot.

Adeola Alamala expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and explained that the AAU Campus branch was inspired by high demand from university students who wanted easier access to their favorite meals. “We realized many of our loyal customers are students who love our Amala but find it difficult to leave campus often. This new outlet brings Amala closer to them,” he said.

The new outlet is a reflection of Adeola Alamala’s long-term vision to make Amala Spot not just a local eatery, but a recognizable food brand across multiple campuses and cities in Nigeria. The Ekpoma expansion shows the brand’s commitment to growth while maintaining its strong focus on taste, quality, and customer satisfaction.

According to Adeola, the success of the Amala Day celebration reaffirmed the community’s love for authentic Nigerian meals and reinforced the need to spread that joy beyond one location. “Our goal is to bring the experience of home-cooked Nigerian food to more people, one community at a time,” he said proudly.

Both the Amala Day event and the new outlet launch demonstrate the brand’s unique philosophy combining culinary excellence with cultural pride. Amala Spot is not just about serving food; it’s about sharing a cultural experience that connects people emotionally to their roots.

By offering discounts, engaging directly with customers, and expanding thoughtfully, Adeola Alamala continues to redefine what a modern local food brand can achieve. The emphasis on trust, transparency, and consistency has earned Amala Spot a loyal following and positioned it as a leading destination for traditional meals in Edo state.

As Amala Spot with Adeola Alamala looks to the future, the brand’s mission remains clear: to celebrate Nigerian cuisine, promote food entrepreneurship, and create spaces where food, friendship, and culture meet beautifully.

The success of the 2025 Amala Day and the launch of the AAU Campus outlet are only the beginning. With the love and support of its growing community, Amala Spot is well on its way to becoming a household name one bowl of Amala at a time.

Kudos to Alamala for his patriotic efforts to bring a local delicacy, such as Amala to the global stage.

PRESIDENTIAL COMMITTEE MOVES TO REVAMP NSCDC TRAINING INSTITUTIONS

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In line with President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to overhaul and reposition the training institutions of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Presidential Committee on Training Reform has visited the NSCDC Academy to assess facilities and recommend strategic improvements.

The team included the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Dr. Dauda Lawal, and the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, among other key members.

The visit aligns with the vision of the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, to strengthen capacity development and enhance operational efficiency across the Corps.

When vision meets determination, hope is renewed, and the Corps is poised for a new era of excellence.

CSC Babawale Afolabi ANIPR

National Public Relations Officer

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.

UAE assures NDLEA of support, partnership, commends Marwa over drug war

Posted on by admin50

By Ebinum Samuel

 

 

The government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has assured the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) of support and stronger partnership while commending the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the agency Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd) for providing excellent leadership that has led to streaks of operational successes in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
The assurance and commendation were conveyed when the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Salem Saeed Musabbeh Alshamsi paid Marwa a courtesy visit at the Agency’s National Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday 11th November 2025.
According to the Ambassador, “I’m here to appreciate your hard work and the great leadership you have provided the NDLEA. We have been following your achievements very closely, and I must say you have done very well and still doing excellent job. We follow all the good work that you’ve been doing, especially all the drugs you’re seizing and blocking from coming to the UAE and we’re so proud of your achievements and that’s why we’re here to deepen our cooperation with your agency in the area of fighting drug trafficking. The UAE looks forward to working more closely with Nigeria on drug enforcement matter.”
While extending an invitation to Marwa to visit his counterpart in UAE and the Dubai Police leadership for further engagements, the envoy expressed the readiness of his government to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NDLEA on areas of collaboration with the agency.

 

“We need to exchange information about drug dealers, and all of their activities. We are here to help and to support you, especially on this matter. It’s very important that we have a very great communication between the UAE and Nigeria especially now that the relationship between United Arab Emirates and Nigeria has become one of the best. If there is any other thing I could do to support the great work you’re doing here, please do not hesitate to ask me and I’ll be available and willing to do it in appreciation of your great leadership. Our mission is to be here for you, assist and support you”, the Ambassador stated.
In his response, Marwa expressed appreciation to the envoy for his kind words on his person and the work of NDLEA, while also commending the developmental strides in UAE. He praised the Ambassador’s years of dedicated service and the huge leap in trade and movement between Nigeria and UAE in the last two years, which he said is in line with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

“I’d like to acknowledge the strong diplomatic relations between our two countries that have continued to grow stronger every year. And Your Excellency has just told us now the latest in billions of dollars in non-oil trade and this is something that we welcome very much in Nigeria because the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda wants to achieve not just peace and stability, but prosperity for all Nigerians. The drug scourge is universal, both the trafficking of it and the abuse of it and there’s a need for collaboration between nations to achieve solutions on this. And in Nigeria, the NDLEA is the agency that is tasked with the control of illicit drugs in the country.”
The NDLEA boss noted that in the last four years, the agency had intercepted a total of 302.202 kilograms of assorted illicit substances going to the UAE either at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja Lagos or some courier companies in Lagos.
As the largest anti-narcotics agency in Africa, Marwa said NDLEA partners all leading drug law enforcement agencies across the world. “We welcome the collaboration between NDLEA and our counterparts in UAE, we’re also willing to honour the invitation to visit UAE for collaborative discussions and sign the MoU”, he assured the envoy.