According to the bank, MSME Day Impact Dialogue session, themed “Driving MSME Growth Impact, Partnership and Innovation,” would serve as a platform to empower emerging entrepreneurs, promote innovation and deepen access to finance for small businesses. The event will bring together MSMEs, policymakers, development partners and industry stakeholders to explore growth opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s enterprise ecosystem.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Director, Marketing and Communications, LAPO MfB, Oluremi Akande, said the fair reflects the bank’s commitment to redefining how microfinance institutions support business growth beyond traditional lending.

He said, “With LAPO SME Fair 1.0, we are creating a platform that goes beyond financing to enable visibility, market access and enterprise development for MSMEs. As the first microfinance bank-led SME fair of this scale, it reflects our commitment to shaping the future of small businesses in Nigeria.

“MSMEs are central to economic growth, and the next generation of entrepreneurs must be equipped with the right tools, networks and financial support to succeed. This initiative is designed to connect them to opportunities that will drive innovation, resilience and sustainable growth.”

The bank noted that pre-event activities would include stakeholder engagements, media interactions, digital campaigns and the showcasing of success stories from entrepreneurs supported through its financial and capacity-building programmes.

It added that the fair would feature exhibitions, business clinics, networking sessions and thought leadership discussions focused on digital transformation, access to finance and youth-driven enterprise development.

World SME Day, observed annually on June 27, highlights the role of small businesses in job creation, poverty reduction and inclusive economic growth.

LAPO MfB reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MSMEs through tailored financial products, strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunities for underserved segments, particularly women and youth.

The post LAPO MfB to host SME Fair 1.0, spotlight future entrepreneurs on World SME Day 2026 appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

As Nigerians begin a new day, several major developments across politics, security, the economy, and public affairs continue to dominate national conversations. Here are ten key stories shaping the country’s headlines this Thursday.

1. Senate Demands Immediate Rescue of Abducted Oyo Schoolchildren
The Senate has strongly condemned the recent abduction of pupils, teachers, and a toddler in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State. Lawmakers described the incident as a direct attack on the nation’s future and urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.

2. Owo Church Attack Convicts Sentenced to Death
A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced four men to death by hanging over their roles in the deadly attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, which occurred on June 5, 2022. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment after finding the defendants guilty of terrorism-related offences.

3. Former Minister Adelabu’s Sister, Twin Sons Kidnapped
Gunmen have reportedly kidnapped the younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin children in Ibadan. The incident occurred in the Challenge area of the Oyo State capital, sparking renewed concerns over insecurity in the region.

4. Fresh Violence Claims Lives in Taraba Communities
Residents of Karim-Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State are mourning following renewed attacks by suspected armed militias. Reports indicate that several people have lost their lives, with the violence beginning after gunmen ambushed youths returning from a football viewing centre.

5. Five Church Members Die in Captivity in Kwara
Tragedy struck members of an ECWA Church in Omugo, Kwara State, after five worshippers abducted during an earlier attack reportedly died while in captivity. The development was disclosed by the church leadership, leaving the congregation devastated.

6. Naira Records Mixed Performance Against Dollar
Nigeria’s currency experienced mixed fortunes on Wednesday. While the naira weakened in the parallel market, trading at N1,398 per dollar, it recorded gains in the official foreign exchange market where it appreciated to N1,360 against the dollar.

7. Oyo Assembly Rejects Negotiations With Bandits
The Oyo State House of Assembly has opposed calls for negotiations with kidnappers responsible for the abduction of students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. Lawmakers instead called for stronger rescue operations and improved security measures.

8. Peter Obi Appeals for Unity Within NDC
Presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged contestants who participated in the Nigeria Democratic Congress primary elections to accept the outcomes and work together for the party’s growth. He made the appeal during the party’s National Executive Committee meeting in Abuja.

9. Police Arrest 17 Suspected Cultists in Abia
The Abia State Police Command has announced the arrest of 17 suspected cult members. Commissioner of Police Danladi Isa warned that the state would not tolerate cultism or any criminal activities, stressing the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order.

10. Three Former Osun Lawmakers Dump APC
Three prominent members of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State have resigned from the party. The former lawmakers — Lekan Oyediran, Aleem Bakare, and Folorunso Oladoyin — submitted separate resignation letters to their respective local government party officials.

These developments continue to shape public discourse across Nigeria as citizens closely monitor security challenges, political realignments, and economic trends affecting the nation.

The post Nigerian Newspapers Review: Top 10 Headlines Making Waves This Thursday appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

“Ọ̀pẹ̀kẹ́tẹ̀ ń dagba, inú adámu ń bàjẹ́.”… As the palm tree rises higher, the palm-wine tapper becomes troubled. In the same way, your progress, success, and elevation may make some close friends, relatives, colleagues, or even partners uncomfortable. Don’t slow down or shrink yourself to please others. Keep growing, keep winning, and stay focused on your purpose. Remember: Ẹniyan kò ní bò ìwọ̀n rere; Ọlọ́run ní mọ̀nà. No one can stop the blessings God has prepared for you.

ADT Cares

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The Oyo State Police Command has stepped up efforts to secure the release of the younger sister of former Minister of Power, , and her two children following their abduction in Ibadan.

The victims, identified as Mrs. Busayo John-Paul and her 12-year-old twin sons, Peter and Paul, were reportedly kidnapped by armed men on Wednesday morning while heading to school along the Ring Road area of the Oyo State capital.

Security sources revealed that the vehicle in which the family was travelling was later recovered, prompting an intensive search operation by police tactical units and other security agencies across strategic locations in the state.

Speaking on the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Command, , disclosed that the Commissioner of Police immediately ordered a coordinated response upon receiving reports of the kidnapping.

According to him, officers from the Challenge Division, supported by specialized tactical teams, were deployed to the scene to begin investigations and pursue leads that could lead to the rescue of the victims.

He assured residents that the command remains committed to ensuring the safe return of Mrs. John-Paul and her children while bringing those responsible for the crime to justice.

The family of Adelabu also confirmed the incident through a statement issued by his media aide, Femi Awogboro. The statement described the abduction as a painful experience and appealed for calm while security agencies carry out rescue operations.

Despite the distressing situation, the family expressed confidence in the ability of law enforcement agencies to secure the release of the victims unharmed. They also urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information that could jeopardize ongoing investigations.

The incident has renewed concerns about the growing challenge of kidnapping and violent crime in Oyo State. Political stakeholders and community leaders have called for stronger security measures to protect residents.

Reacting to the development, the Oyo State chapter of the (APC) urged Governor to strengthen security collaboration and review existing safety strategies across the state.

The opposition party expressed concern over what it described as an increasing wave of abductions affecting different communities, citing previous cases involving students, teachers, and other residents.

Former Vice President also condemned the incident, describing it as further evidence of the country’s worsening security situation. He stressed that insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, social status, or occupation.

Atiku called on the Federal Government to adopt a more intelligence-driven approach in combating criminal networks responsible for kidnappings and other violent crimes.

Similarly, APC governorship aspirant expressed sympathy with Adelabu and his family, urging security agencies to deploy every available resource toward rescuing the victims.

He also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security authorities, noting that community cooperation remains essential in the fight against crime.

As investigations continue, residents across Oyo State remain hopeful that the victims will be rescued safely and reunited with their family.

The post Police Intensify Search for Adelabu’s Sister and Twin Sons After Ibadan Abduction appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in Oyo State have emerged following the abduction of the wife and twin children of the younger brother of former Minister of Power and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Adebayo Adelabu.

The victims were reportedly kidnapped on Wednesday in the Challenge area of Ibadan South-West Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Details surrounding the incident remained unclear as of the time of filing this report, with security agencies yet to issue an official statement on the circumstances of the abduction or efforts being made to secure the victims’ release.

The latest kidnapping has further heightened anxiety among residents amid growing concerns about insecurity across Oyo State, where a series of high-profile abductions have been recorded in recent months.

The incident comes barely weeks after more than 40 teachers and students were reportedly abducted during a coordinated attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community of Oriire Local Government Area.

In another notable case, an APC chieftain, Wale Oriade, was kidnapped by armed men in Ibadan in December 2025. The abduction occurred at his office located within the PJ Square Shopping Complex near the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) station along the Iyana Ajanla axis of Akala Expressway in the New Garage area of the city.

The increasing wave of kidnappings has intensified public concern over the safety of residents, particularly in urban centres that were previously considered relatively secure.

Residents and stakeholders have continued to call on security agencies and government authorities to strengthen measures aimed at curbing criminal activities and restoring public confidence in the state’s security architecture.

As of press time, no group had claimed responsibility for the latest abduction, while efforts to obtain official comments from relevant authorities were ongoing.

The post Kidnappers Abduct Wife, Twin Children of Adelabu’s Brother in Ibadan appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

“Bí a gún ìyán nínú ewé, tá a se ọbẹ̀ nínú ẹ̀pò ẹ̀pà, ẹni máa yó, á yó.”… Even when resources are scarce and life seems unfair, those who remain diligent, hopeful, and focused will still find fulfilment. In society, people start from different backgrounds, but success is not always determined by wealth or privilege. It is often shaped by perseverance, character, and purpose.

ADT Cares

The post Destiny Finds a Way appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

Public primary and secondary schools across Oyo State were shut on Monday as teachers complied with a directive by the Nigeria Union of Teachers to begin a nationwide protest over the continued captivity of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Ahoro-Esienle and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

The protest coincided with demonstrations in Oyo and Ogun states, where residents, civil society groups and labour activists demanded the immediate release of the abductees and urged governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity.

Academic activities were suspended in public schools across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State following the NUT directive.

Students in Moniya, Ojoo and Otun Agba-Agbakin in Akinyele Local Government; Agbowo, Bodija and Sango in Ibadan North Local Government; Beere, Oja’ba and Molete in Ibadan South East Local Government; Orita Challenge and New Garage in Ibadan South West, as well as Odo-Ona and Alao-Akala Way in the Oluyole Local Government Area, who had prepared for school were asked to remain at home after news of the strike filtered through on Monday morning.

Also, there was total compliance in Ogbomoso and Ibarapa axis of the state.

In Ogbomoso, some protesters took to the streets to demand the immediate rescue of the abducted schoolchildren and teachers.

A visibly distraught woman, wearing a pink hijab, broke down in tears as she pleaded for the release of the victims, lamenting that her children were among those kidnapped.

The woman said, “Please, have mercy on me. The children have a bright future. Government, please help us and intervene in this matter. I have cried and cried.

“Where will I start from? The children are my tomorrow. They are my hope. Please, help me. May you also not weep over your children.”

Also, another protester, Ajibola Aboderin said, “We are here to express our grievances, but in a peaceful manner. We feel the pain of the abducted teachers, students and their families, almost 18 days after the incident.

“Even those of us in our homes are feeling the discomfort, not to talk of pupils in the forest enduring such harsh conditions — the rain, the sun and the dew. It is truly pathetic.

“We are protesting to draw the attention of the Federal and State Governments, as well as security agencies, to urgently secure their release.

“We are not happy at all. How can anyone be so heartless as to kidnap a two-year-old boy or girl? This country is deteriorating into something unrecognisable.”

A teacher, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the protest was aimed at drawing attention to the plight of the abducted teachers and pupils.

The teacher said, “I was already in my base – Ibarapa yesterday (Sunday) after Sallah break when one of my bosses called me on the telephone that there would be a strike on Monday. I came back home to Ibadan today (Monday) to observe it.”

Another teacher said, “The protest is in solidarity with the kidnapped teachers and students of Ahoro-Esienle community. We cannot imagine the pains and agonies of the kidnapped students and their teachers in the past 18 days. Our appeal is for both the Federal and State Governments to expedite action on their release.”

Parents also expressed concern over the prolonged captivity of the victims.

Kunle Aofolaju said he only learnt of the strike on a radio programme on Monday morning.

Aofolaju said, “I was not aware until this morning (Monday) when I heard the strike on a radio station’s news review”.

Another parent, Kazeem Abdulmumini, said, “My children had already put on their uniforms when my neighbours called my attention to the strike. So, I asked them immediately to undress and stay at home.”

In Ibadan, members of the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organisations staged a peaceful protest, carrying placards with inscriptions such as ‘Security For All, Not For A Few,’ ‘Government Must End Kidnapping In Oyo State,’ and ‘Protect Farmers, Traders And Students.’

Security operatives from the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other agencies were deployed to strategic locations across the city during the demonstration.

A protester identified simply as Kunle said Nigerians were becoming increasingly frustrated by persistent insecurity.

“Let them know that Nigerians are not at peace. Let them know that the people of Oyo are not smiling. Let them know that the Nigerian people are fed up with insecurity,” he said.

In neighbouring Ogun State, residents of Abeokuta also took to the streets to protest the abduction and worsening insecurity across the country.

The protesters carried placards bearing messages including ‘Bring Back Our School Children,’ ‘Stop Kidnapping, Banditry,’ and ‘End Terrorism in Nigeria.’

Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Juwon Owolabi, said residents now lived in fear due to rising insecurity.

He urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

“This is a time when the parents and everyone are grieving. We cannot continue like this. We sleep with anxiety and panic, and we trust that the government has the capacity and what it takes to end this insecurity now.

“We know that if it doesn’t end now, no one would be safe in the end. We stand with the parents, the families of those who are in the den of this terrorist and we call on the government to intensify efforts to ensure the freedom of all who are under the captivity of these terrorists”, he said.

Owolabi insisted that the country was at a tipping point and no one, including the rich or poor, was safe.

“We are at a tipping point. We are at a point where if we don’t do anything about this insecurity, all of us will be victims of it. It doesn’t matter who you are, whether you are a civil servant or whether you are rich or poor, you are not safe.

“Nobody is safe. It’s time we all come out. There is power in our numbers. The government must know we are united. Don’t wait until the 2027 election. You don’t even have a choice. The choices are made for you already, so this is the time for us to speak out peacefully. We are imploring the government to deploy all necessary instruments to ensure that these children are released and the security of our communities is guaranteed”, he said.

An entrepreneur, who identified herself simply as Ada, said insecurity had affected businesses and restricted movements in the state.

“For the past week, I have not been able to travel. I have orders coming in, but I can’t work. The least the government can do for us as citizens is to provide security,” she said.

Also, a nursing mother, Precious Jonathan, appealed to the government to prioritise the safety of children and citizens.

She said, “My baby is one year and a month old. I’m out because of my child and my unborn children. I want a better Nigeria for all of us. The government should please remember us and give us a better Nigeria.

“The other day, it was rainy heavily, and I stood to close the windows and wrap my baby up. And I immediately remembered the children in the bush. I felt so sad and unhappy. We beg the government to please be more committed to fighting the ravaging insecurity. We want all these school children and their teachers to reunite with their families.”

The post Abductions: Schools Shut Down in Oyo, Ogun as NUT, CSOs, Parents Protest appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

Six members of the House of Representatives from Oyo State on Tuesday announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), a move seen as a boost to the political camp of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.

The lawmakers formally declared their new political affiliation during plenary at the House of Representatives, presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, following the Sallah recess.
The defecting lawmakers are Anthony Adebayo, Adedeji Olajide, Sunday Makanjuola, Oyedeji Oyeshina, Fola Oyekunle, and Adigun Adekunle.
In separate letters read on the floor of the House, the legislators attributed their decision to the lingering internal crisis and leadership disputes within the PDP, saying the situation had made it necessary for them to seek a new political platform ahead of the 2027 elections.

The latest development means that six of the 14 members of the Oyo State caucus in the House of Representatives have now aligned with the APM alongside Governor Makinde.

Meanwhile, the PDP both lost and gained members during Tuesday’s plenary session.
In Bauchi State, Auwalu Gwalabe also left the PDP for the APM. Conversely, Shehu Dalhatu, who represents Faskari/Kankara/Sabuwa Federal Constituency of Katsina State, defected from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the PDP.

Explaining his decision, Dalhatu said he had consulted widely with his constituents before resolving to join the PDP.

Also, Etanabene Benedict of Delta State left the Labour Party (LP) for the PDP, citing the prolonged crisis within the opposition party.
The PDP further strengthened its ranks with the addition of Alex Egbona, who resigned from the APC and joined the party, while reaffirming his commitment to serving his constituents and the House.

In another development, Edo State lawmaker Esosa Iyawe announced his departure from the APC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), blaming irreconcilable differences with the APC leadership in the state.

Similarly, Gbefwi Gaza of Nasarawa State defected from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to the Labour Party, adding to the wave of political realignments witnessed on the floor of the House.

The post Six Oyo Reps Defect from PDP to APM appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Governor of Oyo State has disclosed that more than 200 operatives of the state-owned security outfit, , have lost their lives while battling criminal activities across the state.

Makinde made the revelation during a visit to families of victims abducted from three schools in the Oriire area of Ogbomoso on May 15. The governor expressed concern over the worsening security situation and called for collective efforts to tackle the challenge.

According to him, insecurity should not be politicised, stressing that all levels of government and citizens must work together to secure the release of the kidnapped students and teachers.

“This is not the time to engage in blame games. What is important now is for everyone to unite and ensure that our children and their teachers return safely,” the governor said.

He assured affected families that his administration would continue to deploy every available resource to rescue the victims and bring those responsible to justice.

Makinde also paid tribute to security personnel who have died in the line of duty, particularly members of Amotekun, noting that many of their sacrifices often go unnoticed by the public.

“For the Amotekun corps, we have lost more than 200 operatives. Many went out on security operations and never returned. We pray for an end to the bloodshed and violence affecting our state and the nation,” he stated.

The governor acknowledged public concerns over insecurity and government policies, including restrictions placed on commercial motorcycle operations in some areas. However, he maintained that security agencies and local security outfits remain committed to combating kidnapping, banditry and communal conflicts.

Speaking at a political gathering in Ibadan earlier, Makinde renewed his call for the establishment of state police, arguing that Amotekun was created because repeated demands for decentralised policing had not been granted.

“We advocated for state police, but since that was not approved, we established Amotekun to strengthen local security,” he said.

He urged the Federal Government to accelerate reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s security architecture, insisting that stronger community-based policing structures are needed to address emerging threats effectively.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property while working closely with security agencies to restore peace and safety across Oyo State.

This version is rewritten in a newspaper style suitable for publication and credited to Kolawole Omotola Olaide.

The post Oyo School Abduction: Over 200 Amotekun Operatives Killed Fighting Insecurity – Makinde appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Nigeria’s oldest newspaper, the Daily Times of Nigeria (DTN), will mark a rare milestone on June 1, 2026 (tomorrow) as the revered newspaper, founded on June 1, 1926, clocks 100 years in grand style.

Marking the centenary celebrations, the Management of DTN will hold a press conference on Monday (tomorrow) at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, with a theme titled : “Daily Times is 100 years tomorrow—celebrating 100 years of fearless journalism, championing the future 1926-2026.”

The DTN management led by the publisher, Fidelis Anosike, will unveil a year-long calendar of activities: public lectures, exhibitions of archival front pages, and a digital archive project to put 100 years of Daily Times editions online for researchers and the public.

The banner adds: “100 years honouring the past, shaping the future. 1926-2026: practicing journalism for the people.”

It is instructive to note that Daily Times was started by Richard Barrow and Ernest Ikoli as a four-page daily in colonial Lagos. From that small start, it grew into the nation’s newspaper of record.

In the 1950s, Daily Times published nationalist voices and debates on self-rule. After independence in 1960, it reported every major turning point: the First and Second Republics, the 1966 coups, the Civil War, decades of military rule, and the return to democracy in 1999.

At its peak in the 1970s and 80s, Daily Times had the largest circulation in West Africa. Its Kakawa Street building in Lagos became a landmark. For many families, it was the paper at the breakfast table — carrying election results, public notices, and the stories that shaped public opinion.

It is important to note that the last 25 years have been turbulent. Ownership changes, economic downturns, and digital disruption forced the print edition to scale down. But the brand survived. Today Daily Times publishes in print and online, still holding to its founding mission of journalism “for the people.”

Organizers say the Abuja event is not just about nostalgia. It is a statement of purpose.

“The centenary is about honouring the past, but more importantly, shaping the future,” a senior editor said. “We are 100 years old, but we are not a museum piece. We are championing the future of journalism in Nigeria, Africa, and the global community.”

The NUJ Secretariat was chosen to signal that the anniversary belongs to the entire profession. Expected guests include former Daily Times editors and reporters, media owners, journalism lecturers, students, and press freedom advocates.

The phrase “fearless journalism” anchors how the paper wants to be remembered. It clashed with colonial authorities in the 1950s. During military rule, its editors faced detention for stories that held power to account. In the Fourth Republic, it continued investigative reporting despite shrinking ad revenue and online competition.

“Practicing journalism for the people” is the second pillar. Editors say it means keeping readers at the centre — reporting on government, but also on markets, clinics, schools, and daily life.

“You can change the owners, you can change the format, but if you stop being for the people, you stop being Daily Times,” a veteran reporter who spent 30 years at the paper said.

The centenary comes as Nigerian media face hard realities. Advertising has moved online, audiences are mobile-first, and disinformation spreads fast. Daily Times has had to rebuild its digital newsroom and retrain reporters for multimedia.

At tomorrow’s press conference, management will outline how it will “champion the future: Digital-first newsroom* with data journalism; video, and podcasts to reach younger readers; public digital archive of its 100-year collection for research and education; media literacy projects with schools and the NUJ to help Nigerians spot fake news; training fellowships for young reporters in investigative and solutions journalism.

“The world has changed since 1926,” the editor noted. “But the job has not. People still need reliable information to make decisions. That is what we have done for 100 years, and that is what we will do for the next 100.”

The Publisher/Editor in Chief of the Daily Times, Fidelis Anosike pointed out that “Why 100 Years Matters?”

Anosike said, “Centenaries are rare in African media. Few newspapers reach 100 years, and fewer still are still publishing. For Nigeria, Daily Times at 100 is a living archive. It carried headlines on independence, on July 29 and January 15, 1966, on June 12, 1993, and on May 29, 1999. It also recorded quieter stories: a new bridge, a market fire, a university admission list.

“Tomorrow’s event at the NUJ Secretariat will be brief, but the message is big. Daily Times is not just marking 100 years. It is asking what journalism is for.

As the banner says: “1926-2026, practicing journalism for the people, for a newspaper that has outlasted colonialism, war, and the internet, that mission may be why it is still here at 100.”

Dadiya, an Abuja- based journalist and analyst, contributes this piece from Abuja

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