Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a man suspected of carrying out espionage activities during an ongoing military operation in Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State.

The arrest followed intensified security operations launched after soldiers successfully repelled an attempted terrorist infiltration on a military formation in Cross Kauwa on July 11.

According to security reports, personnel of the 68 Battalion apprehended the suspect on July 13 while conducting follow-up clearance operations in Mallam Fatori.

The suspect, identified as Abubakar Mohammed Zen, reportedly claimed to be a citizen of the Republic of Niger. During preliminary questioning, he told security operatives that he had travelled from Duguri in Abadam Local Government Area.

Items recovered from him included a mobile phone, Airtel recharge cards, a horse and ₦500 in cash.

Military authorities have placed the suspect in custody as investigations continue. Security officials are working to verify his identity, establish his movements and determine whether he has any connection with terrorist groups or support networks operating around the Lake Chad region.

The arrest forms part of Operation HADIN KAI’s ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist logistics, identify collaborators and strengthen security across the North-East following recent attempts by insurgents to infiltrate military positions.

Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to sustaining aggressive operations against terrorism while urging residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information that could assist ongoing counterterrorism efforts.

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Security agencies have intensified efforts to rescue several people abducted during an attack on Government Secondary School, Opada-Olowa, in Kogi State, where candidates were sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO) examination.

The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, threw the community into panic as armed men stormed the area, forcing students, teachers and residents to run for safety.

A community leader, Sunday Alkali, said the attackers initially withdrew after arriving in the community but later returned with more weapons and began shooting, creating confusion around the examination centre.

Following the incident, authorities confirmed that the school’s principal, a NECO supervisor and four students were taken away by the gunmen. One of the abducted students has since been rescued, while efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining victims.

The Kogi State Police Command said police officers, supported by other security agencies, were deployed immediately after the attack. Search operations are ongoing across surrounding areas as security personnel work to track down the abductors.

Residents have expressed concern over the safety of students and teachers, calling for stronger security around schools, especially during public examinations. Local vigilantes and hunters have also joined the search efforts in nearby forests.

There have also been reports that some families of the victims have allegedly received ransom demands, although security authorities have continued to urge the public to remain calm while rescue operations continue.

The incident has renewed concerns about insecurity in parts of the country and the need for improved protection of schools and other public institutions.

The post Kogi School Attack: Security Operatives Intensify Search for Abducted Principal, NECO Official and Students appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The Nigerian naira remained largely stable against the United States dollar in the official Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) on Thursday, July 16, 2026, even as the dollar continued to trade at a higher rate in the parallel market.

Market figures showed that the official NFEM exchange rate stood at about ₦1,384 to one US dollar, recording only slight changes from recent trading sessions. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) maintains the NFEM rate as the country’s official volume-weighted average exchange rate.

Meanwhile, activity in the parallel market indicated that the US dollar was purchased for around ₦1,408 and sold for approximately ₦1,420, according to information obtained from currency traders.

The difference between the official and parallel market exchange rates remained relatively small compared with previous years, suggesting improved liquidity in the foreign exchange market and the continued impact of ongoing monetary policy reforms.

Current Exchange Rates (Thursday, July 16, 2026):

• Official NFEM Rate: Approximately ₦1,384/$1
• Parallel Market Buying Rate: Approximately ₦1,408/$1
• Parallel Market Selling Rate: Approximately ₦1,420/$1

Foreign exchange rates may differ slightly across commercial banks, bureaux de change, and various locations depending on market demand, transaction volume, and dealer pricing. While the Central Bank of Nigeria recognises the NFEM as the country’s official foreign exchange market, rates in the parallel market continue to be determined by prevailing supply and demand.

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Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass as Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, with the veteran captain providing assists for both goals to send the defending champions into the final.

The 39-year-old played a decisive role in Argentina’s comeback victory in Atlanta, producing two assists and dominating the closing stages of the match after England had taken the lead.

Following the match, social media was flooded with reactions to a viral first-half exchange between Messi and England midfielder Jude Bellingham, with many fans suggesting the confrontation appeared to motivate the Argentine captain.

The incident occurred while the match was still goalless after the referee awarded a free kick. Bellingham was seen speaking during the stoppage, prompting a visible reaction from Messi, who responded with a prolonged stare and a nod before the England midfielder turned away smiling.

Bellingham continued to express his frustrations with the officiating and was reportedly guided away by teammates at half-time as Messi looked on.

Football supporters online drew comparisons between Messi’s performance after the incident and the popular “I took that personally” meme associated with NBA legend Michael Jordan, suggesting the confrontation inspired the Argentine forward to elevate his game.

Messi’s two assists proved decisive as Argentina overturned the deficit to secure a 2-1 victory and book a place in the World Cup final.

For Bellingham, who had enjoyed an impressive tournament and scored twice in England’s quarter-final victory, the semi-final defeat marked the end of England’s campaign, with the exchange with Messi becoming one of the defining moments of the match.

Argentina will now advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final as they continue their quest to retain the title.

The post Messi Inspires Argentina to World Cup Final After Viral Exchange With Bellingham appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Bimbo Esho

Celebrating a Rare Gem of Honour, Grace, and Enduring Legacy

Some lives speak through words, but yours speaks even more profoundly through selfless acts of kindness. Your generosity is quiet yet immeasurable, your loyalty steadfast, and your heart finds genuine joy in the success and growth of others. *You have consistently lifted lives, nurtured dreams, and inspired hope without seeking recognition or reward.*

Today, with hearts overflowing with gratitude, we rise in honour of our father and distinguished Patron, whose presence in our lives has been nothing short of a divine blessing. *You are an exceptional personality, a trusted leader, a destiny helper, and a beacon of integrity whose footprints are deeply engraved upon our journey*. You have generously invested your time, wisdom, strength, resources, and unwavering support into the aspirations of countless people, asking for nothing in return.

On this special day, we celebrate you as a *rare jewel—a man of honour, impeccable character, uncommon grace, and immeasurable worth*. Your life continues to exemplify leadership, humility, compassion, and excellence, leaving an enduring legacy that will inspire generations to come.

*Happy Birthday, Sir.*

May the Almighty bless your new age with renewed strength, divine health, overflowing joy, enduring peace, greater wisdom, and abundant favour. May your days be long, your influence continue to expand, and may the seeds of kindness you have sown return to you in countless blessings. We are deeply grateful for the priceless gift of your life and leadership.

The post A Royal Tribute to Our Distinguished Patron, Dr D.K Olukoya @ 69 appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

There are individuals whose achievements become so remarkable that introductions are hardly necessary. Chief Oluwole Oladapo Olanipekun (SAN) belongs to that prestigious and distinguished class. Over nearly five decades, he has established himself not only as one of Nigeria’s foremost legal luminaries but also as an institution builder, education advocate, philanthropist and community leader whose influence extends far beyond the courtroom.

To the legal profession, Olanipekun, the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the former Chairman of the Body of Benchers (BoB) is a brilliant advocate and mentor of repute. To countless beneficiaries of his generosity, he is a benefactor whose interventions have transformed lives. In Ikere-Ekiti, his hometown, and across Nigeria, his name has become synonymous with excellence, integrity, compassion and public service.

Born on November 18, 1951 in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Olanipekun attended Amoye Grammar School before proceeding to Ilesa Grammar School for his Advanced Level studies. He later studied Law at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and the Nigerian Law School. Interestingly, law was not his original ambition. Inspired by the renowned poet, Professor Niyi Osundare, he had hoped to study English. It was Osundare himself who persuaded him to pursue law instead—a decision initially resisted by his father but one that ultimately changed the course of Nigerian legal history.

Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1976, Olanipekun quickly distinguished himself through exceptional advocacy, intellectual depth and meticulous preparation. In 1991, just 15 years after being called to the Bar, he attained the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), becoming one of the country’s most respected legal practitioners.

As founder of Wole Olanipekun & Co., he built one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, handling constitutional, commercial, electoral, maritime, banking, international legal matters and others. His expertise also earned him recognition beyond Nigeria as an authority on Nigerian law, while his numerous scholarly papers enriched legal and public policy discourse.

For the record, Olanipekun’s legal career has been defined by landmark constitutional cases that strengthened Nigeria’s democracy and jurisprudence. His successful advocacy in the landmark case of Inakoju v. Adeleke established that impeachment proceedings must strictly comply with constitutional provisions, leading to the reinstatement of Oyo State Governor Rashidi Ladoja (as he then was).

Olanipekun also played leading roles in the elections petitions cases that restored the mandates of the then Governors: Adams Oshiomhole (Edo); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti) and Olusegun Mimiko (Ondo). Besides, this legal icon successfully challenged the unconstitutional removal of the then Vice President Atiku Abubakar from contesting the presidential election in 2007. These and many other legal victories earned him enduring respect as one of Nigeria’s finest constitutional advocates.

Beyond litigation, Olanipekun has provided exemplary leadership within the legal profession. He served as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the old Ondo State before becoming the 20th President of the NBA between 2002 and 2004. Under his able leadership, the NBA reinforced its commitment to constitutionalism, judicial independence and the rule of law. He has also served on several influential legal bodies, including the National Judicial Council (NJC), the Council of Legal Education (CLE) and the Legal Practitioners Privileges Committee (LPPC) while representing Nigeria in major international legal organisations.

It is instructive to note that Education has remained another defining pillar of his public life. As Pro-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), he championed institutional development, scholarships and infrastructure projects that strengthened Nigeria’s premier university. He later served as Pro-Chancellor of Ajayi Crowther University, pioneer Chancellor of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG). His leadership also proved instrumental in resolving the prolonged crisis at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), helping to restore stability to the institution.

Perhaps, Olanipekun’s greatest professional legacy lies in the many lives he has touched and shaped through remarkable mentorship. Scores of lawyers, who trained in his chambers have risen to become the Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), judges, academics, business leaders and public officials. His commitment to nurturing younger professionals reflects a philosophy that true success is measured not only by personal accomplishments but also by the achievements of those one helps to grow.

That philosophy extends naturally to philanthropy. Long before corporate social responsibility (CSR) became fashionable, Olanipekun had embraced giving as a personal obligation without religious or political affiliations. Through the Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme, established in 1996, hundreds of financially disadvantaged students have received educational support and moved on to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers and other professionals. His donations include scholarships, university infrastructure, educational endowments and practical support for young lawyers.

It is important to note that Olanipekun’s generosity has also transformed his hometown of Ikere-Ekiti. The legal icon has funded hospital facilities, maternity centres, educational projects, ICT infrastructure and community development initiatives that continue to improve lives. Through the Wole Olanipekun Foundation, widows, elderly citizens, students and young entrepreneurs have received financial assistance and empowerment, reflecting his conviction that success carries a responsibility to uplift others.

Incidentally, faith has remained central to his life. A devoted Anglican, Olanipekun has supported numerous church projects, including the construction of a modern vicarage and a large church auditorium in Ikere-Ekiti, demonstrating that his commitment to service extends beyond professional and civic life into spiritual and community development.

Throughout his career, Olanipekun has earned numerous honours, including the revered national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), honorary doctorates from the universities and fellowships of several professional institutions. Yet the true measure of his legacy lies not in titles or awards but in the institutions strengthened, the constitutional principles defended, the professionals mentored and the countless lives transformed through education, healthcare and philanthropy.

When tomorrow comes, it is certain that history will remember exceptional individuals not merely for what they accomplished personally but for the opportunities they created for others. By this noble standard, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has built a legacy that reaches far beyond legal victories. He has shown that professional excellence and public service are not competing ideals but complementary responsibilities. In doing so, the legal luminary has become not simply one of Nigeria’s greatest lawyers, but an enduring symbol of leadership, generosity and service to humanity.

Amokeodo, a senior journalist and media consultant, contributes this piece from Abuja

The post Wole Olanipekun, SAN: A legacy of service and humanity appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

By Jimmy Fatunbi

The Executive Chairman of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, commemorated the 2026 Lagos State Annual Tree Planting Day, themed “Trees for Lagos: Our City, Our Responsibility,” at GRA Primary School, in support of the Lagos State Government’s environmental sustainability agenda.

Delivering Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s address, Hon. Adebanjo described tree planting as a commitment to building a greener and healthier Lagos. He disclosed that the state aims to plant 20,000 trees, with over 67% of the target already achieved across the five divisions. He stressed that the initiative’s success depends not only on planting trees but also on nurturing them to maturity through collaboration with LASPARK.

He also expressed his vision of having three to four schools within Onigbongbo LCDA recognized for excellence in tree planting and gardening.

The Supervisor for Environment, Hon. Korede Alade, said the theme underscores the collective responsibility of protecting the environment, while the Council Sanitarian, Mr. Olalegan, highlighted the role of trees in combating erosion and climate change, urging residents to plant and care for trees for future generations.

The Leader of the House, Hon. Francis Nkwo, emphasized the importance of trees to human survival and called for proper maintenance of the newly planted seedlings.

The event featured the symbolic planting of trees by the Chairman, council officials, and other stakeholders, alongside a special presentation by pupils of GRA Primary School. The vote of thanks was delivered by the Council Manager, Mrs. Fregene, while the closing prayer was offered by Sanitarian Shofoluke

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Authorities in Atlanta have announced heightened security measures ahead of Wednesday’s FIFA World Cup semi final between England and Argentina, as the two football giants prepare to renew one of international football’s fiercest rivalries.

England will face defending champions Argentina at Atlanta Stadium in a bid to reach their first FIFA World Cup final since 1966. The encounter marks the first World Cup meeting between the two nations since 2002.

The Atlanta Police Department said additional security personnel and resources have already been deployed across the city, particularly around the stadium, entertainment districts and other high traffic locations.

In a statement, the police said the enhanced security posture is aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and the thousands of visitors expected for the match.

The department noted that the measures are designed to protect the public, deter criminal activity and provide a safe environment throughout the event.

Security officials acknowledged the historical tensions between England and Argentina, which stem largely from the 1982 Falklands War, a 74 day conflict that claimed the lives of hundreds of British and Argentine soldiers. The sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as Las Malvinas, remains unresolved.

The build up to the match has also attracted attention following Argentina’s victory over Egypt in the Round of 16, when some players were filmed singing a chant referencing the disputed islands as well as Argentine football legends Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.

Despite the historical rivalry, the 2 April War Veterans Federation in Argentina has urged supporters to separate football from politics. The organisation called on fans to enjoy the match while preserving the memory of the conflict, stressing that issues of national sovereignty should continue to be pursued through diplomatic channels.

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford also sought to downplay political narratives surrounding the fixture, describing the contest as “just a game of football” and expressing confidence that events on the pitch would speak for themselves.

Meanwhile, police in the United Kingdom have praised the conduct of England supporters attending the tournament in the United States but urged fans at home to behave responsibly after more than 500 football related incidents and over 100 arrests were recorded during England’s extra time quarter final victory over Norway last weekend.

The World Cup semi final between England and Argentina will take place on Wednesday in Atlanta, with a place in the tournament final at stake.

The post Increased Security Planned for England vs Argentina World Cup Semi Final appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, has disclosed that the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State followed a complex, intelligence-driven operation that lasted more than 56 days and involved multiple security agencies.

Speaking during the formal handover of the rescued victims to the Oyo State Government, Major General Nnebeife said troops launched an immediate rescue mission after the abduction on May 15, 2026.

According to him, soldiers were mobilised from nearby formations immediately the incident was reported. However, by the time they arrived, the abductors had already retreated deep into the forest.

The Army commander explained that the initial search operation faced significant challenges due to the dense forest terrain, which limited the effectiveness of aerial surveillance despite the deployment of drones and support from the Nigerian Air Force.

He noted that security operatives eventually intensified ground operations with the support of local hunters and vigilantes to track the kidnappers.

Major General Nnebeife revealed that the operation came at a heavy cost, with one officer and one soldier losing their lives, while several others sustained injuries, including a soldier who suffered a severe gunshot wound that resulted in a broken arm.

He said the rescue mission later evolved into a coordinated national security operation involving the Office of the National Security Adviser, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Defence Headquarters Special Forces, the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Operation Safe Haven, Amotekun Corps, local vigilantes and hunters.

The GOC stressed that security agencies refused to negotiate with the kidnappers, opting instead to dismantle the criminal network responsible for the abduction.

According to him, the operation focused on identifying the leaders of the group, disrupting their logistics network and arresting members of the syndicate and their collaborators across different parts of the country.

He disclosed that blocking the group’s major supply route eventually compelled the kidnappers to release the victims unconditionally.

Despite the successful rescue, Major General Nnebeife maintained that the military’s operation against the criminal network would continue until those responsible are completely dismantled.

He confirmed that the victims were rescued on July 10 but disclosed that two teachers died while in captivity.

Paying tribute to the fallen personnel, the Army commander said the victims were rescued on the same day the slain officer was buried, describing the sacrifice of the deceased soldiers as one that would never be forgotten.

Major General Nnebeife also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing strategic direction, resources and receiving regular operational briefings throughout the rescue mission.

He praised Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde for his consistent support, dismissing reports suggesting the governor was indifferent to the rescue efforts. According to him, Makinde remained actively engaged by regularly seeking updates on the operation.

The GOC further acknowledged the contributions of the National Security Adviser, the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, the National Intelligence Agency, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, medical personnel and local security volunteers.

He disclosed that intelligence obtained from suspects arrested by the police significantly contributed to the success of the operation, with some suspects reportedly airlifted into the forest to identify terrorist camps.

Major General Nnebeife also appreciated the media and Nigerians for keeping public attention on the abduction, saying the sustained pressure helped maintain momentum throughout the rescue operation.

He urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence, while warning that investigations had uncovered the involvement of some collaborators among local vigilantes and hunters. He stressed that lasting security can only be achieved through effective collaboration between security agencies and the public.

The post Army Reveals Costly 56-Day Operation Behind Rescue of Abducted Oyo Pupils, Teachers appeared first on The Lagosian Magazine.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has announced that Nigeria and Brazil have moved beyond diplomatic engagements to the implementation phase of their bilateral agro-trade partnership, opening the door for increased agricultural trade and investment between both countries.

Shettima made the announcement during a high-level Nigeria-Brazil Agro-Trade Market Access Milestone meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja with a Brazilian delegation led by the country’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, André Carlos Alves de Paula Filho.

According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said the Nigeria-Brazil Agro-Trade Initiative had progressed from policy discussions to concrete implementation.

He noted that both countries had deliberately moved “from dialogue to delivery, from agreements to implementation, and from shared ambition to measurable outcomes,” adding that the development reflects the evolution of a sustainable bilateral partnership.

Shettima, who co-chairs the Nigeria-Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism (SDM) alongside Brazil’s Vice President, Geraldo Alckmin, said the true value of international cooperation lies in delivering practical benefits to citizens.

He explained that the latest milestone builds on agreements reached during President Bola Tinubu’s state visit to Brazil and has laid the foundation for expanded trade, investment and technical cooperation in agriculture and livestock development.

According to the Vice President, the Joint Agriculture and Livestock Technical Working Group established under the Strategic Dialogue Mechanism is now fully operational, with specialised teams focusing on dairy and livestock genetics, soybean productivity, agricultural policy and agro-climatic risk zoning.

Recalling discussions between President Tinubu and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Shettima said both leaders had recognised that agricultural trade between Nigeria and Brazil remained below its full potential and directed officials to identify opportunities to deepen collaboration.

He said the newly announced market access milestones are the result of months of coordinated efforts involving government ministries, regulatory agencies, technical experts and private sector stakeholders in both countries.

Shettima also commended the Brazilian government for strengthening its institutional presence in Nigeria through the appointment of an Agricultural Attaché and the increased participation of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA), noting that both initiatives have accelerated technical cooperation.

He urged farmers, cooperatives, processors and exporters to take advantage of the emerging opportunities by meeting international standards, adding value to agricultural products locally and expanding Nigeria’s export capacity.

Speaking at the meeting, Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, André Carlos Alves de Paula Filho, said the two countries were making steady progress under the Nigeria-Brazil Accelerated Agricultural Trade Initiative established following agreements between Presidents Tinubu and Lula.

He disclosed that Brazil has agreed to grant market access for Nigerian exports of hibiscus, sesame and shea butter, revealing that Brazilian authorities are finalising the phytosanitary certification required to facilitate the exports.

The minister added that Brazil would also assist in linking Nigerian exporters with prospective Brazilian buyers to create commercial opportunities for the products.

Also speaking, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi welcomed the partnership, noting that the state contributes about 75 per cent of Nigeria’s non-oil exports and pledged support for the successful implementation of the initiative.

Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, described Brazil as a global leader in agricultural transformation and expressed confidence that the renewed partnership would boost Nigeria’s agricultural exports while strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

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