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SANWO-OLU CELEBRATES OBA OF LAGOS AT 82 The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Oba of...
29/10/2025

SANWO-OLU CELEBRATES OBA OF LAGOS AT 82

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, on his 82nd birthday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, described the monarch as a traditional ruler who has used his wealth of experience and knowledge to contribute to the progress and development of Lagos State.

He said, “On behalf of my family, the government and the good people of Lagos State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Olowo Eko, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos on the occasion of his 82nd birthday.

“Oba Akiolu is an epitome of dedication and selflessness in public and community service. He’s continued to use his elevated positions as a police officer and traditional leader to uplift the standards of life for the people he serving.

“Since his ascending the throne of his forefathers as Oba of Lagos in 2003, Oba Akiolu has displayed exemplary leadership in Lagos. As the Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Akiolu has used his wealth of experience and knowledge to contribute to the peace, progress and development of Lagos State.

“Oba Akiolu’s commitment to the preservation and promotion of our rich cultural heritage and history is unparalleled. Indeed, the people of Lagos State are lucky to have a disciplinarian, visionary and vibrant monarch like him as their paramount ruler.

“I wish Oba Akiolu a joyous celebration and pray that the Almighty God continues to bestow on him more wisdom for a continuous reign of peace, prosperity and love in Lagos. May Kabiyesi enjoy more fruitful years on the throne of his forefathers for the continuous service to humanity.”

Oworonsoki Land Grab: The Oppression Of The PoorBy Asipa Wasiu Doyin BanjoThose houses recently demolished have been the...
29/10/2025

Oworonsoki Land Grab: The Oppression Of The Poor

By Asipa Wasiu Doyin Banjo

Those houses recently demolished have been there since I was a teenager.

My late aunt, Alhaja Sherifat Agbolade, had a house at Ososa Street, Oworo in the 80s before she moved to her newly built house at Owode Onirin area in the mid-90s.

Whenever my late mom sent us to visit her, instead of entering a bus from New Garage Bariga as directed, we would keep the money and trek, taking a shortcut through the area that was demolished by the government.

The landlords sand-filled the area themselves because it was waterlogged, not with heap of sand as the rich men do today but with dirts dropped there by residents at the upland and later with broken block.
As young as we were then, we knew that they were the definition of the poor, but they were determined to have a roof over their heads. No one should make a mistake, the land was sold to them by Alhaji Ajisegiri, the then overlord of Oworo

I knew when those houses were constructed with plywood and when they started using blocks to replace those old woods.

It is particularly heartbreaking for me to see that the Celestial Church around the place was also torched.
I knew when they started modestly with just a roof and sacks as walls.

This is pure land grabbing by those concerned.

It would have been better to offer to buy them out instead of labeling them as illegal structures.

The Lagos State Government should not just pay compensation but pay the real value for those properties; if not, those involved will encounter the wrath of the Almighty.

My Bariga people on the other side of the bridge, from Ekimogun Street to Alhaji Ariyo Street and environs, please be prepared, urban regeneration will not allow unbefitting structures on that side of Lagos.

It is better to negotiate and have a good deal than to be recalcitrant.

I am always available to work with you.

Asipa Wasiu Doyin Banjo is a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State.

NIGERIA'S FIRST LADY CALLS FOR PRESERVATION OF COWLSO’s LEGACY IN INSPIRING NEXT GENERATION .. AS GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU DEC...
28/10/2025

NIGERIA'S FIRST LADY CALLS FOR PRESERVATION OF COWLSO’s LEGACY IN INSPIRING NEXT GENERATION
.. AS GOVERNOR SANWO-OLU DECLARES 25TH NWC ANNIVERSARY OPEN
.. "WE ARE CELEBRATING IMPACT, RESILIENCE AND VISIONARY LEADERSHIP", SAYS GOVERNOR'S WIFE

First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on women to remain steadfast in promoting values that strengthen families, nurture communities, and inspire younger generations toward nation-building.

She made the call while delivering her goodwill message at the 25th National Women’s Conference (NWC) organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Speaking virtually, Senator Tinubu emphasized the importance of celebrating the women who laid the foundation of COWLSO and sustaining the legacy of service, compassion, and empowerment they established.

“We cannot celebrate 25 years of COWLSO without honouring our past,” she said. “We celebrate the vision of the founder, late Mrs. Olufunmilayo Omobolaji Johnson, wife of the first Military Governor of Lagos State, who gave us the wings to fly. The work she began continues to empower women and strengthen families across Lagos and beyond.”

The Nigerian First Lady commended the successive leaders of COWLSO for building on this vision and aligning the organization’s programmes with national priorities on women’s empowerment, health, education, and social welfare.

She noted that true progress can only be achieved when women are equipped and encouraged to take active roles in shaping society.

“Our legacy is the next generation we inspire,” the First Lady stated, stressing that, “As mothers, leaders, and mentors, we must continue to nurture women and girls to be confident, visionary, and capable of transforming our country.”

While declaring the Conference open, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu lauded the efforts of COWLSO in driving inclusive development, describing women as central to the progress and stability of the State.

The Governor observed that the theme of the conference reflects the importance of continuity and forward-looking leadership, noting that COWLSO’s success rests on compassion, collaboration, and community service.

“Legacy is not about the past, it is about the future,” Governor Sanwo-Olu said. “As we reflect on this silver jubilee, we must appreciate those who began this journey and ensure that the vision they birthed continues to inspire new leaders, innovators, and change agents.”

In her welcome address, the wife of the Lagos State Governor and Chairman of COWLSO, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described the silver jubilee edition of the conference as a celebration of impact, resilience, and visionary leadership.

She said the theme of this year’s conference, “25 Years of Visionary Legacy: Inspiring the Next Generation,” underscores the collective responsibility of women to preserve the ideals of COWLSO while preparing the younger generation to lead with purpose.

“As we mark 25 years of selfless service, we must remind ourselves that legacy is not about longevity but impact,” Dr. Sanwo-Olu said. “Our focus is to continue raising women who will drive change in their families, communities, and across every sector of society.”

Dr. Sanwo-Olu who is also the Chairman of COWLSO, noted that over the years, COWLSO has served as a powerful vehicle for women empowerment, promoting gender inclusivity and complementing government efforts in health, education, environment, and youth development.

She also announced that this year’s conference would feature panel discussions, masterclasses, and exhibitions designed to equip women with the skills and networks needed to thrive in today’s fast-evolving society.

“This milestone reminds us that COWLSO’s story is one of shared vision and collaboration,” she noted. “We are determined to keep this torch burning and ensure that women continue to shape the destiny of Lagos and Nigeria.”

The 25th National Women’s Conference continues through the week with inspiring sessions, exhibitions, and mentorship activities, bringing together women from all walks of life to discuss strategies for building a more inclusive and equitable society.

OLUBUKONLA NWONAH
Deputy Director, Public Affairs
Office of the First Lady of Lagos State
28/10/2025

Oworonshoki Demolition: Lagos Govt Didn’t Violate Any Court Order - Attorney General…Says False Narrative Against Govt U...
28/10/2025

Oworonshoki Demolition: Lagos Govt Didn’t Violate Any Court Order - Attorney General

…Says False Narrative Against Govt Unfair

…Reveals Compensation Paid To Affected Residents Including Those Without Legal Ownership

Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN), has set the record straight regarding allegations that the state government willfully disobeyed a subsisting court order by continuing the demolition of houses in Oworonshoki.

He described the allegations as “false and unfair.”

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, Pedro insisted that no agency of the state government was served any court order before the latest phase of the demolition exercise.

He said contrary to reports, the operation did not violate any restraining order obtained by residents.

“As of today, I am aware of the court order they are referring to. However, before the demolition they are complaining about, no government agency had been served. I believe the order was endorsed on Friday, October 24, 2025, the same day the demolition took place.

“Even if the order was obtained that day, can a government office be served on a Saturday? At that time, no government agency was aware of any such order,” he explained.

The demolition exercise commenced after the state government announced that it had compensated about 80 property owners on Friday.

The government also said, through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency on Sunday, that it was planning more compensation.

The Attorney General maintained that government agencies cannot act on “verbal notice” of a court decision, insisting that only formal service of court processes can trigger compliance.

“If there has been any order said to have been violated, my position is that no such order was brought to the attention of any government agency before the act being complained about,” he stated.

Pedro also accused some litigants of abusing court processes to obstruct public interest, noting that the government had shown leniency in dealing with affected residents.

According to him, demolition in Oworonshoki began nearly a month ago but was temporarily suspended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to allow residents more time to relocate.

He said the government paid compensation to affected persons even though many could not prove legal ownership of their properties.

“The demolition started almost a month ago. It was stopped by the governor’s directive, and the people were thereafter compensated to enable them to relocate.

“The case they are now referring to wasn’t even filed until recently, even though they were aware of the government’s plan of demolition over a month ago.

“They only engaged a lawyer belatedly, possibly using the same compensation funds paid to them by the government to turn around and sue,” Pedro alleged.

He confirmed sighting a copy of the interim injunction, which he said merely restrained further demolition and was obtained ex parte without the government being heard.

“The order itself seeks to stop the continuation of demolition, which shows that demolition had already taken place. It was obtained ex parte, without the government’s participation, in breach of the principle of fair hearing,” he said.

Pedro added that as of the time of the interview, his office, listed as the first defendant in the suit, had not been formally served with the order.

“I was away in Akure for an official assignment over the weekend, but I called my office to confirm. As I speak, no order has been served. If indeed there is an order, it should be served on the Attorney General first. That has not been done,” he stated.

He also stated that residents alleging illegal demolition must prove legal ownership and compliance with building regulations before claiming any damages.

“None of the people condemning the government has asked whether the demolished properties had building approvals.

“If you build without approval, the law is clear that such structures are illegal and subject to demolition. But we often react emotionally and blame the government for enforcing the law. We should stop using the media to legalise or justify illegality,” he said.

Pedro cited recent cases of building collapse in Lagos as examples of why the government must act decisively against illegal structures to prevent future tragedies.

He explained that part of Oworonshoki land falls within a government scheme, while another portion was excised for the Oba’s family.

“If the structures are within the excised land given to the Oba’s family, it would be wrong for the government to enter. But if they are within the government-acquired area, the government has every right to act. Anyone claiming ownership must show title documents and approved building plans,” he said.

The Attorney General described the public criticism of the demolition as “unfair and sentimental,” maintaining that the government acted within its powers and did not violate any valid court order.

“The government has not deliberately flouted any order. The narrative that we disobeyed the court is false. What we are witnessing is an attempt to blackmail the government for enforcing the law,” Pedro added.

Lagos Assembly Approves Guidelines To Strengthen Local Government Administration The Lagos State House of Assembly on Mo...
28/10/2025

Lagos Assembly Approves Guidelines To Strengthen Local Government Administration

The Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday approved comprehensive regulations and guidelines to strengthen administrative procedures across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) of the state.

The House, at plenary chaired by Speaker Mudashiru Obasa, adopted the Resolution after robust deliberations.

Lawmakers took turn to comment on the resolution.

Hon. Aro Moshood praised the guidelines as “top-notch” and capable of positioning Lagos as a model for local governance.

Hon. Kehinde Joseph called for clarification on the omission of the Chief of Staff’s role.

Hon. Abiodun Orekoya stressed the need to harmonize the number of supervisors with the principal law.

Hon. Bonu Solomon commended the inclusion of community policing provisions for enhancing security and creating jobs.

The approval, according to the House, marks another decisive step toward transparency, accountability and more efficient grassroots administration in Lagos State.

Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu’s Major Supporter Arrested, Released After Oba Akiolu’s InterventionOne of the major supporters of Pre...
28/10/2025

Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu’s Major Supporter Arrested, Released After Oba Akiolu’s Intervention

One of the major supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Gbolahan Ogundimu Odusanya, was recently arrested by the police.

Details regarding the reason for his arrest were still unclear, but he was released after the intervention of the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwanu Babatunde Akiolu.

Odusanya, popularly known as Iyen Na Nice, confirmed Oba Akiolu’s intervention in a post on his page after his release.

“I just left Zone 2; my Kaabiyesi Olowo Eko sent a legal representative to stand in for me. Thank you so much, sir,” he said.

Many of Odusanya’s supporters have asked him what led to his arrest, and he has promised to provide a full account.

Although Odusanya is a staunch supporter of Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), he is known for not shying away from speaking truth to power when required.

SANWO-OLU MOURNS DPO FESTAC TOWN, CSP MATILDA NGBARONYE The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expresse...
26/10/2025

SANWO-OLU MOURNS DPO FESTAC TOWN, CSP MATILDA NGBARONYE

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Festac Town Division in Lagos State, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Matilda Ngbaronye.

The Governor sympathised with the Police Service Commission, the Lagos Police Command, the deceased's family, friends and the Festac community over the death of the late DPO.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, on Sunday, said the late CSP Ngbaronye was a respected police officer known for her professionalism and commitment to the security of lives and properties in Lagos State, particularly in Festac Town.

He said: "The death of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Festac Town Division, Lagos State, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Matilda Ngbaronye, who reportedly passed away on Friday following complications from surgery at a private hospital in Lagos, was a colossal and irreplaceable loss.

"Late CSP Ngbaronye was a dedicated, committed and professional police officer who devoted her life to the service of the Nigeria Police Force. She served passionately, and her service record in different positions reflected integrity, diligence, dedication and commitment to duty.

"On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, I express my heartfelt condolences to late CSP Ngbaronye's family, friends, associates, Lagos Police Command and the Police Service Commission. I pray that God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant CSP Matilda Ngbaronye eternal rest.”

The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Festac Division, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye has died in a Lagos hospital.According...
25/10/2025

The Divisional Police Officer in charge of Festac Division, CSP Matilda Ngbaronye has died in a Lagos hospital.

According to QED.NG, Ngbaronye died on Friday at a hospital in the Surulere area of Lagos State.

Ngbaronye celebrated her birthday on May 24, 2025.

May her soul rest in peace and may her immediate family and the Police be comforted at this difficult time.

TANKER ACCIDENT: SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH NIGER GOVERNOR, VICTIMS’ FAMILIES  The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide...
22/10/2025

TANKER ACCIDENT: SANWO-OLU COMMISERATES WITH NIGER GOVERNOR, VICTIMS’ FAMILIES


The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed sympathy to his Niger State counterpart, Governor Mohammed Bago, the government and people of Niger State over the tanker explosion that reportedly claimed no fewer than 35 lives and left 17 people hospitalised.

Sanwo-Olu, who is the Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum, also condoled with families of the victims over a lone tanker vehicle accident along the Bida/Agaie highway.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, on Wednesday, said the incident is worrisome and pathetic.

He said: "It is with a heavy heart that I read and followed the development of the disaster that happened yesterday along the Bida/Agaie highway in Niger State following the explosion of a petrol-laden tanker that reportedly claimed about 35 persons.

He said: "Our thoughts and prayers are with my brother, Governor Mohammed Bago, the Government and the people of Niger State, as well as the deceased families and victims of the sad incident.

“I pray for the repose of the deceased and ask that the Almighty God grant the families of the victims the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. I wish those receiving treatment a quick recovery."

2027 PRESIDENCY: LAGOS APC DECLARES SUPPORT FOR TINUBU, TASKS RESIDENTS ON LARGE VOTER TURNOUT•As Sanwo-Olu, ministers, ...
21/10/2025

2027 PRESIDENCY: LAGOS APC DECLARES SUPPORT FOR TINUBU, TASKS RESIDENTS ON LARGE VOTER TURNOUT

•As Sanwo-Olu, ministers, federal lawmakers, others roll out party achievements


Stakeholders of the Lagos State chapter of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have unanimously expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election, urging him to seek a run for a second term in 2027.

The decision was reached on Tuesday in Lagos by thousands of the party's chieftains and members during the APC Stakeholders Forum 2025 held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island.

The meeting was attended by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his predecessors, Mr Babatunde Fashola and Mr Akinwunmi Ambode; Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; his wife, Oluremi; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; members of the APC National Working Committee and State Working Committee; serving and former federal and state lawmakers; appointees; council chairmen; and traditional, religious, political, women, youth and student leaders.

The motion endorsing President Tinubu to run for another term in 2027 was moved by the Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi, and seconded by Obasa, saying the President has done a lot in the last two years to run for presidency in the next general elections.

In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu said President Tinubu deserves to be supported for another term because he has fulfilled many of his campaign promises to Nigerians.

“Our president, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was once the 12th Governor of Lagos State. We have listened to all of our stakeholders here today. And all of the representatives of the stakeholders in the Lagos APC have come to the conclusion that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should return as our president in 2027.

"I believe that this message will get to A*o Rock, it will get to the Villa and will get to all the nooks and crannies of this great country," he said.

While moving the motion, Oba Shotobi said, “We endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to go for the second time. So I move.”

Seconding the motion, Obasa said, “In view of the submissions made by all the stakeholders and the motion just being moved by our Royal Majesty of Ikorodu, I do hereby second the motion of my colleagues from Lagos State and of our assembly and the people of Lagos State. I so second.”

Speaking on why President Tinubu should be considered for another term, Dr Hamzat said, "As we look toward the future, we must recognise the importance of continuity. The leadership at the federal level, under the visionary guidance of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has continued to demonstrate courage, vision, and commitment to national transformation.

"The reforms being experienced under the leadership of our revered leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, are being driven by renewed hope, productive governance, and economic recovery. It is, therefore, in our collective interest and in the spirit of progress that we, as loyal members of the APC family in Lagos State, endorse and support the leadership at the federal level for a second term.

"We owe it to our party, to our state, and to our nation to continue to build upon the achievements we have made. Let us go back to our wards, our local governments, and our constituencies as ambassadors of the APC, spreading the message of good governance, unity, and progress. Let us mobilise, sensitise, and encourage others to stand firmly behind our leaders, confident that the continuity of progressive leadership will bring even greater prosperity to our people."

Speaking on the performance of the incumbent government in Lagos State, Dr Hamzat said residents in the last six years have witnessed a remarkable transformation across all sectors under the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration.

He said, "Over the past six years, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and guided by the THEMES+ Agenda, an acronym for Traffic Management and Transportation; Health and Environment; Education and Technology; Making Lagos a 21st Century Economy; Entertainment and Tourism; and Security and Governance, we have witnessed a remarkable transformation across all sectors.

"I say with boldness that THEMES+ Agenda was not just a slogan; it was a blueprint for progress, a plan anchored on deliberate, inclusive, and sustainable development, from infrastructural renewal to human capacity building. Lagos has continued to move forward with incredible energy and purpose."

"Today, Lagos stands tall as a model of excellence and a beacon of good governance. Other states across Nigeria continue to visit Lagos to understudy our systems, from taxation and revenue administration to traffic management, healthcare delivery, and urban planning. This is not by chance; it is the product of consistency, planning, and ex*****on."

In a lecture titled 'Voter Apathy and the Sanctity of Election in Nigeria's Budding Democracy', Fashola said they should mobilise people and engage the youths to vote during elections.

He said, "The Lagos APC Stakeholders Forum is coming up at a time when some of those who stood in emergence as opposition are now seeing how difficult it is to form a merger like APC did. The opposition are now seeing the long rope we walked back then to get to where we are.

“Political party participation is based on enthusiasm. If people are enthusiastic, they will turn out to vote. But hope is not lost because we are in a season of renewed hope, and therefore we will turn it into a renewed hope for our party and programmes.”

Other speakers at the event, which included members of the federal cabinet and the National Assembly, also rolled out some of the achievements of President Tinubu in different sectors since he assumed office on May 29, 2023.

PICTURES: GOV. SANWO-OLU, HIS DEPUTY - DR. HAMZAT, FASHOLA, AMBODE, OTHERS AT THE 2025 APC LAGOS STAKEHOLDERS’ FORUM, HE...
21/10/2025

PICTURES: GOV. SANWO-OLU, HIS DEPUTY - DR. HAMZAT, FASHOLA, AMBODE, OTHERS AT THE 2025 APC LAGOS STAKEHOLDERS’ FORUM, HELD AT EKO HOTELS & SUITES, VICTORIA ISLAND, ON TUESDAY, 21ST OCTOBER, 2025

CHEF AGBOYE WINS N5MILLION PRIZE AT EKO FLAVOURS SEASON 2 COOKING CHAMPIONSHIP•First runner-up goes home with N3M, third...
19/10/2025

CHEF AGBOYE WINS N5MILLION PRIZE AT EKO FLAVOURS SEASON 2 COOKING CHAMPIONSHIP

•First runner-up goes home with N3M, third position gets N1M

•As Lagos celebrates culinary creativity



Chef Agabus Agboye has won a N5 million star prize in the Lagos State Government culinary food cooking competition tagged 'Eko Flavours Season 2'.

Agboye defeated other participants to become the Eko Flavours Season 2 Champion in a contest organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems in conjunction with the Culinara Group.

Martha Oluwadamilola Rotimi emerged as first runner-up with a N3 million prize, while Peace Alexander was second runner-up, winning N1 million, during the final of the competition held at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin area of Lagos State at the weekend.

Enwere Glory and Daniel Akagha, who were part of the top five, and other finalists who participated in the quarter-final, semi-final and final of the cooking competition were also rewarded for their efforts with consolation prizes.

The highpoint of the Eko Flavours Season 2 was a sideline cooking competition between the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, and a popular food critic, Opeyemi Famakinwa, which was won by the Commissioner, to the amazement of spectators.

Speaking after his victory, an emotional Chef Agboye expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the platform to showcase his talents with a promise to improve on his culinary skills.

"I am overwhelmed with joy. This is a dream come true after years of hard work and dedication. I want to thank the Lagos State Government and the organisers of Eko Flavours for believing in young chefs like me. This win means I must keep improving and give my best to represent Lagos proudly,” he said.

Oluwadamilola Rotimi, who emerged as the first runner-up, also expressed excitement and appreciation for the experience, describing the competition as 'a journey of discovery and growth.'

“This competition has opened my eyes to what is possible in Lagos’ food industry. We have incredible talent here, and I am proud to be part of this culinary evolution,” she said.

Speaking during the competition attended by government officials, sponsors from private organisations, and large crowds from different sectors, Olusanya noted that every participant is a winner due to the rigorous and keenly contested competition.

Olusanya, who was optimistic that the competition would create job opportunities and a sustainable future in the food sector, urged participants to see the competition as a stepping stone to greater heights in the culinary sector.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr Idris Aregbe, said Eko Flavours was designed to identify and promote culinary talents who could represent the state’s diversity through food while creating opportunities for self-employment and innovation.

Aregbe assured that outstanding contestants would be showcased in the upcoming Greater Lagos Fiesta in December. He said Eko Flavours had become a key part of the state’s creative economy and youth empowerment strategy.

“Beyond the competition, our goal is to empower more people, build capacity and ensure synergy among these young chefs. We are already planning to feature not only the top five but also other outstanding contestants at the upcoming Greater Lagos Fiesta in December," he said.

Similarly, the Special Adviser to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr Olurotimi Fashola, highlighted the improved digitalised judging process and transparency of this year’s edition.

"What we are witnessing is the birth of a generation of chefs who can redefine Nigerian cuisine. Our dream is to create unique recipes and dishes that originate from Lagos – something we can patent and proudly call our own," he said.

Speaking about the competition, the co-CEOs of Culinara Group, Mrs. Olufunke Adu and Mrs. Jennifer Odufuwa, commended all the participants for putting in their efforts in the competition, saying they are all winners.

Adu said: "Every contestant today represents a story of resilience, creativity and hope. Beyond the trophies, everyone who stood in that kitchen today has gained something valuable: confidence, exposure, and belief in their own abilities.

“Lagos is proud of all the participants. We at Culinara are committed to nurturing these emerging chefs so they can tell more ‘Lagos stories’ through their food.”

Odufuwa said the second edition was “bigger, better and more exciting”, describing it as a platform that not only celebrates Lagos flavours but also connects chefs to business opportunities.

“We are thrilled to see how Eko Flavours has evolved from an idea into a vibrant culinary movement. This second edition is not just about competition; it is about collaboration, visibility and giving Lagos chefs a stage to shine locally and internationally,” Odufunwa said.

The Eko Flavours Season 2 competition, themed “A Lagos Food Story”, is part of the Lagos State Government’s efforts to promote culinary tourism, celebrate local ingredients, and empower youths in the hospitality and food value chain.

The event featured live tastings, digital scoring, and mentorship sessions, reinforcing Lagos’ position as the emerging hub of Nigeria’s creative food culture.

Address

Mushin Halt

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