NEWS
Why We Must Protect Nigeria’s Democracy, Obasa, Fashola, Foreign Diplomats Speak
Despite its challenges, democracy in Nigeria must be protected by every citizen, speakers at an event to commemorate the country’s 25 years of unbroken democratic governance organised by the Lagos State House of Assembly have warned.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, former governor of Lagos, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, foreign diplomats, and business experts argued on Wednesday evening that democracy has benefitted the Nigeria since 1999 when the country began its fourth republic.
Others who spoke at the event include Prof. Eghosa Osaghae of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Dr. Muda Yusuf, former chairman of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce, and Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
Dr. Obasa said Nigeria deserved to celebrate because in the last 25 years, the country has successfully transferred power from one administration to another, uphold the principles of representation, accountability, and the rule of law.
“Our democracy has endured despite challenges and setbacks. We have faced elections, protests, and debates, but our commitment to democracy has remained unwavering.
“We have demonstrated that democracy is not a destination but a journey, and we are proud to be on this path. We must continue to guard it jealously, for it is the foundation upon which the fabric of our nation’s progress is built.
“We must continue to promote democratic values, protect human rights, and ensure that our democracy remains perpetually unbroken,” the Speaker said while recalling the struggle and sacrifice made by well-meaning Nigerians during the struggle for democracy.
Obasa noted the roles so far played by the state legislature in the scheme of Nigeria’s progress to include promotion of good governance, accountability, and the rule of law as well as passage of bills that have transformed the lives of citizens.
“As a transformative and people-centric legislature, the House of Assembly has delivered impactful laws and representation, reforming justice, social welfare, and security systems, and driving tax reforms, infrastructural development, and transportation improvements.
“These have attracted significant attention from local and international admirers, leading to frequent visits from international representatives and private citizens seeking to learn from us, exchange ideas, conduct research, or participate in exchange programmes,” the Speaker said.
He urged Nigerians to continue to support state Houses of Assembly to further deepen democratic values and bring governance closer to the grassroots.
FASHOLA
The former governor of Lagos said 25 years of democracy has provided an opportunity for effective representation of the people as well as freedom to make laws.
Urging Nigerians to hold on to democracy very jealously, he argued that the federal system practised in Nigeria remains important to the country’s growth.
“For those who are understandably impatient with democracy, I hear them. It can be a tedious way to govern. There is no better way to order our affairs. I will not trade the liberties it offers for anything else.
“We are a federal state and let me tell you why. We have multi-level legislative houses from the local councils to the National Assembly. We have multi-level judicial system.
“We also find different levels of government exercising different forms of responsibilities and this you can find in the exclusive and concurrent lists and, of course, what you can’t find in those two lists, is the residual authority that resides in the states. For example, the Senate cannot make laws on landlords and tenants laws and rent control,” he said.
Speaking about some changes that have happened in Nigeria in the last 25 years, he recalled the ‘famous resource control case’ which originated from Lagos and was resolved through the constitution making some states earn better now. He also recalled the matter relating to local government creation during the administration of Asiwaju Tinubu as governor.
“As at 1999, if you wanted to build a house in Lagos, you would go and get permit in Abuja. It was the Lagos State government that went to court to stop it,” he said adding that the cases were fought and won because of the quest for a perfect union.
Urging support for President Tinubu’s administration, expressed optimism that wages and salaries and issues with the creation of state police would become reality.
FOREIGN DIPLOMATS
The Consul General of the French embassy in Lagos, Laurent Favier, while congratulating Nigeria, said “democracy is not a state of perfection but something people have to fight for at all times. It is a political structure that must be deepened.”
He expressed satisfaction with how democracy in Nigeria has ensured freedom just as he urged the country not to relent in making citizens happy.
On the other hand, Weert Börner, Consul General of Germany, said his country with 16 states, practises same federal system as Nigeria adding that this results in healthy competitions.
He affirmed that Nigerians enjoy freedom of opinions, one of the characteristics of democracy.
He commended Nigeria over its Electricity Act which gives states power to generate electricity noting that Germany followed same part 25 years ago resulting in about two million electricity producers in the country.
Consul General of the Embassy of Italy, Ugo Boni assured that the government of his country will continue to be a trustworthy companion of Nigeria while the British Deputy High Commissioner, Lagos, Jonny Baxter, said: “In these challenging times, it is important that we support each other in our shared commitment to democracy.
“Nigeria’s democratic resilience and significance in West Africa serves as an example to other nations seeking to strengthen and protect their own democracies.”
“The UK looks forward to partnering with Lagos and Nigeria in the next 25 years and more.”
Michael Ervin, political and economic section chief at the US Consulate General, Lagos, said Nigeria is an example of how diverse people can unite and ensure freedom for all.
He congratulated Lagos Assembly and noted that Lagos opens the door to the development of Nigeria.
NEWS
Where culture meets connection: ‘Made by Africa, loved by the world’ returns for its fifth year
22 May 2025, – In celebration of Africa Day, Facebook today launched the pan-African “Made by Africa, loved by the world” campaign, celebrating the creative brilliance and global impact of Africans from across the continent. This year’s theme, “Where Culture Meets Connection,” reinforces Facebook as the leading space for conversation around cultural moments globally, and brings together internationally recognised African creatives from diverse disciplines, uniting to create a powerful celebration of African creativity, culture and global influence.
The three short cinematic films, premiering on the Meta Africa page, takes viewers on a journey through the groundbreaking work, personal stories, and cultural influences of some of Africa’s six most dynamic creative talents. Through powerful storytelling, the campaign unites diverse art forms of film, animation, dance, music and photography into a single narrative of creativity and collaboration.
Meet the creators behind the campaign
Featuring some of the continent’s most popular and loved creatives from Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana and South Africa, the films explore themes of identity, creativity, and connection across the continent, celebrating not only their artistry, but their widespread influence and cultural resonance.
- Ladipoe (Rapper) x Fat Boy Animations (Animation)
- Ladipoe (Nigeria): A BET award nominee, he is a Nigerian rapper known for fusing global hip-hop sounds with African rhythms, he is a leader of Nigeria’s hip-hop revival with his authenticity and originality inspiring a new generation of artists
- Fatboy Animations (Kenya): A studio founded by self-taught animator Michael Muthiga and twice recognized by Forbes magazine as one to watch, Fatboy Animations is known for creating fun, original African stories, with the studio’s standout character, Kapinto receiving international acclaim.
- Lisa Quama (Dancer) x Gilbert Asante (Photographer)
- Lisa Quama (Ghana): A dancer and content creator celebrated for her energetic dance videos. She gained major recognition after featuring in Beyoncé’s “Already” music video alongside Shatta Wale.
- Gilbert Asante (Ghana): A creative director, photographer and multidisciplinary artist known for his vibrant visual storytelling and refined style. His work has been featured in GQ, Glam Africa and Glitz Africa.
- David Tlale (Fashion Designer) x Ofentse Mwase (Videographer)
- David Tlale (South Africa): A fashion designer who approaches fashion with an eye toward bold and creative designs that fuse African heritage with modern style. His innovative designs have been showcased at major fashion events—from New York and Paris to Cape Town Fashion Weeks, whilst his designs have graced some of entertainment’s biggest events such as the Met Gala.
- Ofentse Mwase (South Africa): A talented South African filmmaker with over 24 international awards for his visual storytelling. His creativity shines in his unique visual effects and storytelling, often blending African culture with modern themes.
Commenting, Kezia Anim-Addo, Communications Director, Africa, Middle East & Turkey (AMET), said: “We’re incredibly excited to shine a spotlight and celebrate just some of the amazing creative talent that casts a light on our African culture and connects us to the world. Facebook is a leading place for conversations around cultural moments, and through this campaign, we’re not only celebrating individual success stories – we’re also showcasing how culture and social media together can drive meaningful connection and inspiration.”
The Non-Teaching Staff Union of Polytechnics (NOTSUP) has successfully established a new chapter at Federal Polytechnic Ohodo in Enugu State. This development marks a significant milestone in the union’s efforts to strengthen its presence and advocate for the rights and welfare of non-teaching staff across Nigeria.
This new chapter was established and inaugurated on May 13, 2025, by NOTSUP Southeast Zonal Executive Council, led by Comrade Victor Iduma Okocha and comprising Comrade Kalu Azuma Nwankwo and Comrade Maxwell Obijuru. The formation of this chapter is expected to enhance the welfare and well-being of non-teaching staff at Federal Polytechnic Ohodo, providing them with a stronger collective voice to negotiate with management and address key issues affecting their livelihoods.
Following the inauguration, the Federal Polytechnic Ohodo new chapter chairman, Comrade Chidi Ugwele, in his speech stated, “I reserve all glory for God almighty. I extend my deepest gratitude to the school management for approving the establishment and indeed the inauguration of our union on May 13, 2025, and recognizing the importance of collective representation for non-teaching staff. I also appreciate NOTSUP, Southeast Zonal Executive Council, and the National Executive Council for accepting to establish the union in the polytechnic.He equally called on all the chapter members to come together and make NOTSUP, FEDPOD Chapter a Success.”
The new chapter will provide a platform for non-teaching staff at Federal Polytechnic Ohodo to come together, share concerns, and work collectively towards improving their working conditions and overall well-being. With this establishment, NOTSUP continues to solidify its commitment to representing and supporting non-teaching staff in the polytechnic sector.
During the inauguration, the Southeast Zonal Executive Council presented the new chapter leadership with letters of appointment issued by the union’s National Executive Council. The Federal Polytechnic Ohodo Chapter Executives inaugurated include the Chairman, Comrade Chidi Ugwele, Secretary, Achi Thomas, Vice Chairman, Ugwuafia Nneamaka, Financial Secretary, Ebekue Ifeoma, Treasurer, Elom Chinedu, Assistant Secretary, Eneh Anulika, Welfare Officer, Okpaga Davidson, and Public Relation Officer, Lawal Saheed.
The inauguration was attended by Federal Polytechnic Ohodo management who were invited as guests of honor, including the Rector, heavily represented by the Deputy Rector, Dr Cornelius O Ogayi, Registrar heavily represented by the Director Admissions, Mr Austin Ugwoke, Acting Bursar, Mrs Udeh Patient A, polytechnic Librarian, Dr Ejike C Igwebuike.
The NOTSUP National President, Comrade Shaba Nakorji, while receiving the report on the inauguration, expressed gratitude to the Federal Polytechnic Ohodo management. He stated that the National Executive Council is optimistic that NOTSUP in the polytechnic will foster a stronger, more united voice for non-teaching staff, enabling them to effectively address challenges and pursue opportunities for growth and development.
This establishment is a testament to NOTSUP’s dedication to its members and its mission to promote a better working environment for non-teaching staff in polytechnics across the country.
Photo from left to right: Chapter Public Relation Officer, Lawal Saheed A, Chapter Vice Chairman, Ugwuafia Nneamaka, Chapter Financial Secretary, Ebekue Ifeoma, Chapter Chairman, Comrade Ugwele Chidiebere, Polytechnic Librarian, Dr Ejike C Igwebuike, Deputy Rector, Dr Cornelius O Ogayi, Southeast Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Victor Iduma Okocha, Zonal Publicity Secretary, Comrade Maxwell Obijuru, Zonal Secretary, Comrade Kalu Azuma Nwankwo, Assistant Secretary, Eneh Anulika E,
Treasurer , Elon Chinedu N,
Welfare Officer, Okpaga Davidson E.
.
Left to Right: Comrade Kalu Nwankwo, Comrade Victor Iduma Okocha, The Rector Dr. Mrs. Essien Uduma, Comrade Maxwell Obijuru, Comrade Matthew Ekong, Comrade Enobong Williams
The Non-Teaching Staff Union of Polytechnics (NOTSUP) has secured formal recognition from Federal Polytechnic Ukana, marking a significant milestone in its history. This recognition strengthens NOTSUP’s presence within the institution, enabling the union to undertake labor activities and provide representation for its members.
Comrade Enobong Williams, NOTSUP Chairman at Federal Polytechnic Ukana, and Comrade Ekong Matthew, pioneer former Secretary of NOTSUP at Yaba College of Technology, received the formal recognition letter issued by Federal Polytechnic Ukana.
Left to Right: Comrade Kalu Nwankwo, Comrade Victor Iduma Okocha, The Rector Dr. Mrs. Essien Uduma, Comrade Maxwell Obijuru, Comrade Matthew Ekong, Comrade Enobong Williams
The recognition letter comes after a delegation from NOTSUP’s Southeast Zonal Executive Council (ZEC), led by Comrade Victor Iduma Okocha and comprising Comrade Kalu A. Nwankwo and Comrade Maxwell Obijuru, visited Federal Polytechnic Ukana on April 17, 2025. During their visit, they formally requested a recognition letter.
The National President of NOTSUP, Comrade Shaba Nakorji, expressed gratitude upon receiving the recognition letter. He thanked the Rector and Management of Federal Polytechnic Ukana for recognizing NOTSUP, highlighting the importance of this development for the union and its members.
This recognition is expected to enhance NOTSUP’s ability to advocate for the rights and interests of non-teaching staff at Federal Polytechnic Ukana, fostering a more collaborative and productive work environment.
NOTSUP has recognized established Chapters across state and federal government-owned polytechnics, including: Federal Polytechnic Bida, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Abia State Polytechnic (Ogbonnia Onu Polytechnic), Yaba College of Technology, Federal Polytechnic Idah, Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, College of Agric Lafia, Federal Polytechnic Gombe, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Kaduna Polytechnic, Federal Polytechnic Ede, Nigeria Institute of Legal Studies Zaria, Federal Polytechnic Ukana, and many others.
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