The Kogi State Government has reconstituted a 26-member Drug Control Committee in line with the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2015–2019 to tackle the rising menace of illicit drugs in the state.
The committee, launched on Thursday 4, September 2025,by the Secretary to the Government of the State (SGS), Mrs. Folashade Arike Ayoade, Ph.D, aims to drastically reduce the sale, distribution, and use of illicit drugs in Kogi State.
Investigator news reports that the committee comprises representatives from various government agencies, including;National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA),Ministry of Health,Ministry of Education,Ministry of Information and Communications,Ministry of Youth and Sports,Ministry of Women Affairs,Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs,Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
Others are Traditional rulers,Chairmen of Local Government Areas (LGAs),Youth associations,Pharmaceutical bodies,Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) / Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)and Faith-based organizations (CAN/JNI)
The SGS in her remarks charged the State Drug Control Committee (SDCC) to work as a team and hold regular discussions to achieve its goals, noting that success would lead to a saner and safer society.
“We all know the effects of hard drugs in our society. The purpose of this committee is to drastically reduce the sale, distribution, and use of illicit drugs in Kogi State. ”
“Governor Usman Ododo’s administration is determined to ensure the state is not a safe haven for drug dealers or users,” she declared.
Responding on behalf of the committee, the NDLEA Kogi Commander, Umar Mustapha Yahuza who co-chairs the SDCC with the Governor’s Wife, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo assured the government of their commitment to work round the clock to meet the objectives of the NDCMP in the state.
The Executive Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo, has condemned and warned against environmental degradation in the area, stating that the illegal dumping of waste is a threat to public health and a sabotage of his administration’s sanitation drive, warning that environmental laws will be strictly enforced.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment, stressing that his administration will not tolerate indiscriminate waste dumping as he warned that environmental laws will be strictly enforced to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
This move is part of the LCDA’s efforts to ensure that Ejigbo remains a clean and healthy place to live.
Investigator news reports that the chairman’s stance on environmental sanitation is in line with the Lagos State Government’s initiatives to promote a cleaner and healthier environment across the state.
In a bid to keep Ejigbo clean,the Environmental Taskforce arrested residents engaged in illegal waste dumping around Jakande Estate Gate, Oke Afa, and Idimu Road, Ejigbo.
The offenders, who were first-time violators, were fined, directed to undertake community service, and compelled to sign undertakings never to reoffend.
While Aare Taiwo warned that repeat offenders will face prosecution and heavier penalties, emphasizing that sanitation in Ejigbo will not be compromised.
“Sanitation in Ejigbo will not be compromised. Our people deserve a clean, healthy environment, and this administration will ensure it at all costs,” the Chairman declared.
Investigator news gathered that in line with this commitment to environmental cleanliness, the Ejigbo LCDA has been recognized for its efforts in tree planting and nurturing.
The council was awarded “The Local Government with the Best Nurtured Trees” by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) in 2019 and this achievement demonstrates the council’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainability.
Reports has it that the newly elected Chairman,Aare Tahoeed Adebayo Taiwo has been engaging with the community to promote environmental awareness and encourage residents to take responsibility for their surroundings. This includes sensitization campaigns and clean-up exercises, which have been instrumental in maintaining the area’s cleanliness.
Aare Taiwo’s administration is committed to maintaining a clean and healthy environment in Ejigbo LCDA. With strict enforcement of environmental laws and community involvement, the council aims to create a sustainable and environmentally conscious community as the LCDA’s zero-tolerance policy on environmental sabotage is a welcome development for residents who have long suffered the consequences of indiscriminate waste dumping.
In a remarkable display of community service,on Friday, August 15,2025,over 200 people at the prestigious computer village,Ikeja were beneficiaries of a free eye glasses at a medical outreach organized by the Global IMSU Graduate Alumni.
The event kicked off with a 10 kilometres fitness walk which started at Balogun Street off Awolowo way down to Allen Junction and terminated at the prestigious Computer village in Ikeja where the other activities of the program held as beneficiaries were provided with essential health services, including free eye check ,comprehensive medical check-ups, with vital signs such as blood pressure and sugar levels monitored.
Investigator news reports that the event saw a large turnout of individuals, many of whom had struggled with vision issues and lacked the means to afford corrective eyewear being attended to with free eye glass,drugs given to them.
Dr Anayo Uhiara, Global President GIMSUGA.
Speaking with newsmen,Dr Anayo Chukwunonye Uhiara,Global President of the Global IMSU Graduate Alumni (GIMSUGA) stated that the essence of exercise was part of impacting the society and giving care to humanity.
He noted that the Global IMSU Graduate Alumni which is committed in giving back to its community embarked on the medical outreach so as to touch lives and provide succour to those who can’t afford corrective eye glasses.
“We are here in Lagos to mark our Convention/Annual General Meeting,a yearly event where we have the opportunity for all graduands of IMSU come together, strengthen our bond of friendship and impact humanity”
“The essence of our visit today at the Computer village in Ikeja, Lagos was part of impacting the society and inorder to show that we care,the association decided to embark on free medical and eye screening for all. We believe that coming out to Computer village would afford the opportunity to reach out to a good number of them who are always busy and have limited time to check their health status ”
“Beneficiaries would have a good information about their health status as we are being supported by Nalis Pharmaceutical company limited, Owerri to carry out their blood pressure, sugar level and most importantly their eyes”he said.
On the Annual General Meeting /Convention,Dr Uhiara stated that the members have come together to renew their bond of friendship,aggregate their resources so as to impact their Alma mater as they will embarking on digitalization of the administrative process of the school by donating Computers enabled with internet so as fast track the issue of transcript, admission and other administrative work.
Ambassador Ugochukwu Esenulo,the Chapter Chairman,Lagos State noted that the medical outreach is part of the association CSR as over 200 individuals would benefit from the free medical and eye screening.
Ambassador Ugochukwu, Lagos Chapter Chairman
Ambassador Esenulo who described the convention as an epochal event said ” We are giving out over 200 free eye glasses and they would be attended to by the medical doctors,lab scientist and Optometrist that are here present because we are here to give back to the society as part of the benevolence which is a key event in the convention ”
The Chapter Chairman went further to highlight some of the achievements already carried out by the association.
“As a chapter we do things collectively as an association,we have been able to give back to the school,done a lot of projects, donated 34 Solar lights, renovated boreholes and toilets, working with statutory organization and has attracted funding to the tune of 40million to the school but we are doing is a bit of greater agenda by the Imo State government,we are keying into the policies of the State government together with the school management.
” And this year,we are embarking on digitalization of the administrative process of the school by donating Computers enabled with internet so as fast track the issue of transcript, admission and other administrative work and activities.”
“As a Chapter,we have grown our membership from 125 to 310 and we have been taking care of our members welfare,we are united,love and care for each other ” he submitted.
Ambassador Chimezie Rosemary, Committee Chairman
Lending her voice,the Chairman of the Global Convention Committee of GIMSUGA, Ambassador Rosemary Chimezie opined that this initiative demonstrates the alumni’s dedication to giving back to the community and improving the well-being of individuals in need.
The programme according to her,not only provides medical treatment but also aims to improve academic performance by addressing preventable vision problems.
“Today, over 200 individuals would have their blood pressure and sugar level checked and those with eye problem would also be checked by the team of doctors we have on ground and if need be, would be given eye glasses which is absolutely free “she stated.
One of the beneficiaries,who spoke with investigator news,Moses Ajah expressed appreciation to the association for the opportunity which has helped him to know his health status. “I knew I hardly exercise but what I don’t know is that I had health issues but today, I have found out the cause of my incessant headaches which could have led to something else. So I am grateful for this opportunity,” he stated.
Another beneficiary,Mrs Amaka Onuoha was full of thanks after undergoing several health checks and receiving a pair of free prescription glasses.
“This outreach is timely and thoughtful. I received treatment for my sugar level and was also given new glasses after an eye test. The people of Computer village are grateful. This is the kind of support our community needs more often,” Amaka said.
Investigator news gathered that this commendable effort by the Global IMSU Graduate Alumni highlights their commitment to giving back to the community and promoting healthcare access for all. By providing life-saving health services, they are making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals in need.
Highlight of the day was the a health walk done by members of the association,provision of free prescription eyeglasses, which were given to those in need after conducting eye examination on participants.
The Convention/Annual General Meeting will take place today Saturday 16, August 2025 with the theme “Empowering Excellence: Celebrating Our Heritage, Honouring Our Part And Inspiring Our Future.
The Keynote speaker will be delivered by an esteemed IMSU Alumnus,Prof. Ezebunwa Nwokocha, immediate past Dean faculty of the Social Science, University of Ibadan.
The Executive Chairman of Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo,has officially embarked on the Inaugural On-the-Spot Assessment Tour across the six wards of Ejigbo LCDA on Monday, August 4, 2025, despite the torrential rainfall.
The major locations visited includes Anu Oluwa Po Street, Nurudeen Obe, Kashimawo Street, Ailegun Community Hall, Ailegun Primary health center which has been neglected and used for other purpose.
Other places visited are several Primary Health Centres, like Okeafa primary health center,Jakande Primary Health Centre (PHC), Elemu PHC,Balle Afeero Street, Iya-Alaje Street,Morning Star PHC, Morning Star Street (Proposed School Site),Ona Iwamimo Street, Ilufunmi Street, Morinatu Street, Dauda Ilo Street,Area office Okeafa and several others that needs government attention.
The tour which had in attendance,the Vice Chairman,Mrs Abimbola Nicholas Ike,the leader of the house,Hon Gabriel Sobande and other Councilors,Council manager, Pastor Olusegun Ajaguna,HOD Environment,other Management heads and staff.
According to reports,the tour is aimed to acquire firsthand knowledge and align priorities with the community’s urgent needs.
It commenced at Kashimawo road,a crucial thoroughfare that embodies both the challenges and opportunities shaping the area as the new administration spent the day conducting an intensive,on-the-ground assessment of vital sites, approaching it as a purposeful, data-driven effort to gain direct insight into the wards’ physical infrastructure, healthcare facilities, drainage systems, and community projects.
The Council boss used the occasion to interact directly with residents, listening to their concerns, understanding their realities, and aligning priorities with their most urgent needs.
During his visit at the Primary health center Okeafa,Aare Taiwo raised a major concern at the limited 8-hour operational schedule of all the PHCs, noting that his administration would embark on a phased transition to 24-hour operations in key centres to strengthen emergency care and healthcare access.
He went further to state that his administration has plans to subsidize and restructure attached pharmacies, ensuring essential drugs are affordable and consistently available, particularly for low-income households.
While applauding the health workers for their dedication and commitment to humanity,stated that solar-powered panels will be deployed to ensure uninterrupted energy supply in all the Primary Health Centers across Ejigbo LCDA as he would also enhance the staff growth of the health workers.
Aare Taiwo frowned at the Primary health center at Ailegun that has been abandoned while ordering the Council manager to swing into action so as to revamp the place for public use with immediate effect.
As he also directed the department of environment to begin immediate evacuation of waste along double powerline road which is marred by indiscriminate refuse dumping and resulting in flood thereby causing unsanitary condition for the residents.
The team also visited Iyana Ejigbo where the Chairman addressed the persistent flooding and stagnant water and ordered the urgent desilting of strategic drainage channels within the location as he vowed to make Ejigbo LCDA a cleaner,safer and more climate resilient area.
Investigator news gathered that this is not a one-off exercise, but the dawn of a new tradition, a governance culture grounded in presence, empathy, and purposeful leadership as the Executive Chairman, Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo,has always emphasized that this approach will define the heartbeat of his administration.
“This key initiative reflects our administration’s strong commitment to fostering participatory governance, fast-tracking infrastructure revitalization, and providing leadership that truly serves the community at the local level.”he said
Hon. Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, the lawmaker representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2, has expressed disappointment over the deplorable state of sanitation in his constituency, particularly in Okota.
The area has been plagued by indiscriminate waste dumping, clogged drains, and heaps of refuse, creating an eyesore and a health hazard for residents.
In a letter addressed to the Managing Director of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Hon. Okey-Joe lamented the poor state of cleanliness in the area, citing the need for urgent attention.
He noted that the filth and waste have become a recurring problem, with many residents suffering from the consequences of poor sanitation.
While commending LAWMA for clearing dirt from some streets in Okota, Hon. Okey-Joe noted that several other streets remain uncleared, contributing to the overall poor sanitation in the constituency.
He emphasized that the agency’s efforts, although appreciated, are incomplete without a comprehensive cleanup of the entire area.
The lawmaker has called on LAWMA to extend the cleaning exercise to the remaining streets in Okota, stressing the need for a comprehensive cleanup of the area.
He also urged the agency to deploy more waste collection trucks and personnel to the constituency to enhance waste management services.
Furthermore, Hon. Okey-Joe proposed a collaboration with LAWMA to organize “Operation keep Oshodi /Isolo Clean” aimed at promoting environmental awareness, education, and community engagement.
The event, which will feature educational sessions, distribution of waste bags, and clean-up exercises, is expected to promote a cleaner environment and foster a sense of community responsibility.
The proposed “Operation keep Oshodi /Isolo Clean” will also provide an opportunity for residents to learn about proper waste disposal practices, recycling, and the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
Hon. Okey-Joe believes that this initiative will not only improve the sanitation situation in the constituency but also promote a culture of environmental stewardship among residents.
In addition, Hon. Okey-Joe urged residents to take responsibility for their environment by paying their LAWMA dues promptly.
He emphasized that the payment of these dues is crucial in enabling LAWMA to provide effective waste management services, and encouraged residents to cooperate with the agency to achieve a cleaner and healthier environment.
“As residents, it is our responsibility to ensure that we pay our LAWMA dues on time, this will enable the agency to provide the necessary services to keep our environment clean,” Hon. Okey-Joe said.
Hon. Okey-Joe’s intervention highlights the need for LAWMA to intensify efforts in addressing the sanitation challenges in Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2. The development has sparked concerns among residents, who are calling for improved waste management services in the area.
Many have expressed frustration over the poor state of sanitation, citing the need for urgent action to prevent health risks and environmental degradation.
As the constituency awaits LAWMA’s response, residents are optimistic that the proposed Environmental Day will mark a new beginning in the fight against filth and environmental degradation in Oshodi/Isolo.
They hope that the initiative will lead to sustained efforts to improve waste management services and promote a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
The letter has sparked a renewed call for action, with residents and stakeholders urging LAWMA to take concrete steps to address the sanitation challenges in Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2.
As the agency considers Hon. Okey-Joe’s proposal, residents are eagerly awaiting a positive response that will bring relief to the area.
In related news, environmental experts have emphasized the importance of proper waste management in preventing health risks and promoting sustainable development.
They have called on government agencies and stakeholders to work together to address the sanitation challenges facing communities like Oshodi/Isolo, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach to environmental management.
The situation in Oshodi/Isolo Constituency 2 serves as a reminder of the need for sustained efforts to promote environmental awareness and improve waste management services in communities across Lagos State.
As Hon. Okey-Joe and LAWMA work together to address the sanitation challenges in the area, residents are hopeful that their efforts will yield positive results and improve the quality of life for all.
In a remarkable display of corporate social responsibility, Total Energies EP Nigeria has launched a healthcare initiative in Ilado Community, Amuwo Odofin LGA, Lagos, providing free medical services and donating medical consumables worth over ₦8 million.
In addition to this, the organization also distributed mosquito nets and donated medical consumables worth over ₦8 million to be freely dispensed to residents during the outreach.
The initiative, a company-wide effort birthed by the Managing Director of TotalEnergies EP Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer, reflects the company’s deep commitment to community welfare and social responsibilities.
Investigator news reports that the outreach was coordinated by the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Medical teams, delivering free healthcare services to hundreds of residents, treating individuals on malaria,hypertension,hepatitis,and urinary tract infections.
Representing the Managing Director at the event, Dr. Yakubu Belgore, Executive Director, People and Country Services, led the delegation and reaffirmed the company’s dedication to community health.
“This intervention is part of our continued effort to support communities in need. A healthy community is a wealthy community,” he said.
The team also applauded Dr. Creek, who has spent over 13 years providing grassroots medical care in Ilado and other riverine communities in Lagos State for his commitment to underserved communities, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria acknowledged his clinics as trusted channels for the distribution of the donated medical supplies.
On behalf of the community, Chief Agbabiaka Samsondeen, the Elegushi Olofin of Ilado land, representing Oba Mobadenle Oyekan, the Onilado of Ilado, expressed profound appreciation to Total Energies EP Nigeria for its timely and impactful intervention.
who has spent over 13 years providing grassroots medical care in Ilado and other riverine communities in Lagos State.
He stated that this initiative not only delivered urgent medical care but also restored hope in a community long overlooked, proving that responsible corporate leadership can bridge critical gaps where government efforts fall short.
“A healthy community is a wealthy community. The Ilado community has expressed gratitude for the timely intervention, which has brought hope and relief to its residents”he submitted
With plastic pollution still threatening lives, coastlines, and ecosystems across Nigeria, the Sterling One Foundation is taking concrete steps to confront the crisis through community-led cleanups, strategic partnerships, and ongoing policy engagement.
Investigator news reports that earlier this year, the Foundation led a major cleanup at Elegushi Beach under its Beach Adoption Programme, a national initiative that has now formally adopted more than five beaches since 2021, including Alpha, Eleko, Lafiaji, Iwerekun and Okun Ajah.
Across these sites, the Foundation has cleared over 9,000 kilograms of waste, including more than 4,800 kilograms of recyclables, while working with local leaders to embed awareness and long-term stewardship in coastal communities.
“Our work on the beaches is not symbolic,” said Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO, Sterling One Foundation. “It is a deliberate strategy to improve coastal resilience, protect vulnerable populations, and link sustainability with real opportunity.
Every cleanup is a chance to restore dignity to the environment and build trust in the systems meant to protect it.”
On June 13, Sterling One Foundation will join other stakeholders at WEDex 2025, a World Environment Day convening hosted by GreenHub Africa in partnership with the United Nations.
The Foundation will speak at the “Financing Youth Initiatives for Green Entrepreneurship” session at the UN House in Abuja, focusing on unlocking capital for community-based solutions to plastic waste.
The United Nations, a key partner on WEDex, also returns this year as co-convener of the Africa Social Impact Summit, scheduled for July 10 and 11 in Lagos.
The summit will focus on practical solutions for climate resilience and policy innovation under the theme Scaling Action: Bold Solutions for Climate Resilience and Policy Innovation.
“Plastic pollution is a development issue but also an untapped opportunity,” said Ibekwe. “If we do not treat it as urgent and systemic, it will keep undermining livelihoods, health, and climate goals.
Yet, if we engage the right partnerships and investment, plastic waste can be turned into a driver of jobs and innovation, especially for young people across the continent.
The call now is for both the public and private sectors to act, to see beyond the problem and unlock its potential for good.”
To learn more about Sterling One Foundation’s environmental work, visit onefoundation.ng or register for the summit at theimpactsummit.org.
About Sterling One Foundation
Sterling One Foundation (SOF) is a registered non-profit focused on tackling the root causes of poverty in Nigeria, and Africa through interventions and social impact programmes across three critical sectors namely: health, education and climate action & food security.
Gender Equality and women empowerment are integrated as a cross cutting priority across all our programming areas.
The Foundation’s programmes adopt a central theme of prioritizing partnerships for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For more information visit onefoundation.ng
As part of its commitment to promoting a healthier and more resilient banking workforce, the Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is organizing a special Aerobics Fitness Session on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at the Lagoon Front of the Eko Atlantic City.
Investigator news reports that the session is open to all bankers and marketing communication professionals within the industry and will feature a lineup of fun and energizing activities aimed at boosting physical and mental wellbeing.
With stress levels and burnout on the rise in high-pressure sectors like banking, ACAMB is taking, as it has done over the years, proactive steps to encourage lifestyle habits that support overall wellness and productivity.
Participants will begin the morning with a body warm-up and short walk to get their energy flowing, followed by an exciting dance aerobics session designed to elevate heart rates and lift spirits.
The day will continue with interactive fitness games that promote movement and team bonding, and will wrap up with a friendly but motivating fitness challenge to inspire healthy competition and personal bests.
“Bankers are vital to the financial ecosystem, and their wellness must be a priority,” said Rasheed Bolarinwa, President of ACAMB.
“This aerobics session is a powerful way to foster a culture of health, team bonding, and preventive care. It reflects our belief as ExCO that a strong mind and body, are essential for long-term professional excellence.”
Investigator news gathered that the session is expected to kick off early in the morning to take advantage of the fresh morning air, allowing participants to start their weekend with energy, movement, and connection.
It also presents an opportunity to unwind and build camaraderie amongst colleagues outside the traditional office setting.
This initiative is one of several wellness-focused programms ACAMB is rolling out to reinforce the importance of employee wellbeing in corporate and marketing communication and the broader banking ecosystem.
The Association of Corporate Affairs Managers of Banks (ACAMB) is the recognized professional association for marketing communications and public affairs executives in Nigeria’s banking industry.
ACAMB drives ethical communication standards, promotes internal and external stakeholder engagement, and supports member banks in advancing reputation, trust, employee growth and wellbeing.
…………As Oba leads awareness walk against drug abuse.
Emmanuel lkpeama
In order to combat the growing scourge of substances abuse among youths,the Paramount King of Orile-Alagbado,His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeshoga Williams Adeyoola (Tomia 1)has embarked on a comprehensive sensitization program as part of his activities marking his 100 days on the throne.
The Paramount King Oba Adeyoola (Tomia I) launched a strategic campaign against drug abuse and the illicit use of harmful substances in the community with the theme “Say No To Drugs”which is aimed to educate the youths and stakeholders on the dangers of substance abuse, underscoring the urgency of the issues and importance of awareness.
The event held on Thursday 1, May 2025 at the palace of Oba Adeyoola was well attended by various stakeholders, including community leaders, youths,representatives of NDLEA, Ministry of Health, Ojokoro LGA, police and other sister security agencies and concerned citizens.
Investigator news reports that the awareness walk commenced from the palace of Oba Adeyoola to Moshalashi down to Ajegunle,Ologogoro,Folaasis,Mao Junction then Agbado Junction.
The walk continued to Jakara and made a stop over at the palace of Oba of Ojokoro community,then back to Clem road,Adure,Killington and back to the palace.
Earlier the Keynote speaker,a representative of Knowledge Over Drug Abuse Organization,Mr Olufemi Bashorun called on parents to be involved in the affairs of their children by monitoring the kind of friends they keep and places they visit.
Olufemi stated that curbing substances abusive driven mental health issues among youths calls for vigilance, while calling for a united front to ensure that youths receive the necessary guidance and support.
“The war against drug abuse is not a war for just one person, it involves you and me, non-governmental agencies, students, elders amongst others.Therefore, I encourage all women, mothers, and intending mothers to join forces to fight against drug abuse and illicit dealing in narcotics in this community”
I want to tell you that anybody involved in drug abuse and is rushed to the hospital,for 6months will not pay less than N500,000 to treat himself,so I encourage parents to assist in joining force to stop this act or it destroys what we have been able to build for years”he said.
He opined that Knowledge Over Drug Abuse which is an NGO that was set up by young Nigerians to address the issues of drug abuse by providing the right knowledge to young people so that they can make informed decisions and for parents to provide knowledge to their wards.
The Convener,Oba Adeshoga Williams Adeyoola (Tomia 1), stated that the essence of the campaign against drug abuse and the illicit use of harmful substances in the community was part of his commitment in ensuring that youths are not seen taking which is diminishing their lives and that of their future.
Oba Adeyoola, known for his progressive leadership and deep concern for youth welfare, said the campaign is aimed at rescuing the younger generation from the dangers of drug addiction and substance abuse, which have continued to threaten the future of many homes and communities.
He offered wise counsel, advising the youths to shun hard drugs and substances that can cause irreparable harm to their health.
“We must rise as a people and say no to drugs. It is time to take back our youths from the grip of addiction. This is a royal call to action — for parents, schools, religious leaders, and the entire community to play their part.”
“Our children are our future leaders but the future is now under threat due to the alarming rate of drug abuse amongst young people”
“We must act now to prevent this menace from destroying our youths. I want to thank most especially the NDLEA in their fight against drug abuse, the ministry of health and all the security agencies here present in making this day a memorable one ” he submitted.
Representative from the NDLEA Ogun State Command emphasized the importance of law enforcement in combating drugs. They commended the royal father for coming up with such initiative, while urging the youths to stay away from drugs so that their future will be brighter .
Speaking with Investigator news,the Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Ojokoro LGA,Hon Jelili Oseni applauded Oba Adeyoola efforts in trying to eradicate the menace of drug abuse in Orile Agbado community.
Hon Jelili emphasized the critical needs for community engagement, stating that drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach involving parents, education institution and community organization.
He advised the youths to stop taking drugs so that they won’t destroy their future and be a good representative of this country and their future.
Investigator news gathered that this initiative has drawn support from traditional chiefs, youth groups, security agencies, and NGOs, which reflects the monarch’s commitment to building a healthier, safer, and more prosperous community.
Dr Iyanda from the Ministry of Health, Ojokoro LGA urge the youths to shun drugs as it can cause psychological trauma, appealing to parents and guardians to know the kind of friends their children keep.
A non-profit organisation,the Bigways International Women of Faith Foundation in conjunction with the Eastern Union, Lagos Branch in furtherance to its vision to provide humanitarian assistance to alleviate the sufferings amongst women and children, visited the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi Araba, Lagos on Saturday 26, April 2025,to provide emotional and financial support to indigent parents of children and adults battling with different ailments at the hospital.
The event tagged “Health Care Support Outreach” with the theme: Medical bill payment support to the needy saw members of the foundation of both Bigways international women of faith foundation and that of Eastern union paid an unscheduled visit to the hospital as they several wards in the hospital such as the male wards, female ward and the children wards.
The organization visit saw hope ignited among the beneficiaries as the charity organisation gave cash support of N20,000 to over 200 patients including children from indigent families. The cash donation which many beneficiaries considered as a timely intervention was gladly received especially by parents of the sick children who expressed their gratitude for their kind gesture.
Thanking the organisation for identifying with them in their time of need,the beneficiaries said the cash gift will go a long way in helping them offset some of their bills.
Speaking with newsmen,the Founder, Deaconess Juliet Ndukaku said that the NGO is a non-profit organization that provides free healthcare support for the vulnerable and the poor, give hope to the hopeless and put smiles in the lives of the needy in the society.
Deaconess Juliet, Founder Bigways international women of faith foundation.
She noted that the group, as part of its commitment to identifying with the needy amongst the vulnerable and indigent decided to pay a visit to the hospital to assist and support the vulnerable with cash award.
Deaconess Ndukaku stated that the essence of the project was borne out of their organizational goal which is centered on humanitarian services to affect lives positively, put smiles on people’s faces even in the current face of hardship witnessed in the society.
“Before now l have this passion in touching lives because l grew up in an environment whereby we need to struggle to survive in life and today I see myself in a position where I can assist and support so many lives that have no one to run to for assistance ”
“We decided to come with this initiative of how we can render service to humanity and giving support in the society by touching the lives of the widows, children and the orphans in the society. Eastern union saw this and decided to partner with us so that we can pay bills of some of the indigent and vulnerable persons in the hospital ”
L-R Mrs Light,Mr Abiodun Afonta and Deaconess Juliet.
“Though before now we have been touching lives for the past two years as we have visited those in the prison yard, the orphanage home and gave out free medical treatment for people of Jakande Estate in Ejigbo community.
“This time around we decided to come to LUTH and see those at the orthopedic ward, children that are from indigent homes so as to offer assistance to their families to enable them to get the needed medical treatment to overcome their predicament,”she said
She called on individuals and the general public especially privileged individuals in the society to spare a thought for the sick and show them love by extending assistance.
“My message to people out there is that in whichever way and however little you can afford, please extend and give out to those who are in need. Lend a helping a hand, it goes a long way. It might not solve the entire problem but it goes a long way in affecting lives,”
“Remember this is the season of love and we have decided to show this love to this ones,many people out there may not understand the value of life as we don’t see those who are in pain and to tell you the truth,we were marveled with the kind of cases we saw today,we have agreed to come back again because we saw that many people in here needs our assistance aside the fact that we paid bills of some children and adults”she submitted.
The founder went further to appreciate the LGA Oshodi Isolo chairman of the labour party,Bishop Remigus Agu, the Eastern Union, Lagos Branch, Trisonent Meta Verse, Staff of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), doctors and nurses, Mr Joseph Kalu Chisco Energy, Oil and Gas zonal Chairman Nupeng,Comrade Oluwasegun Ekun,Mr Offor Emmanuel (Canada) and Mr Emeka Nwakanma.
Also, appreciated was Dr Jairus who was the contact person,Mrs Ebere Ojo,Mrs Light,Publicity Secretary-the Bigways International Women of Faith Foundation
Calling on the public to buy into the vision of the Bigways International Women of Faith Foundation in affecting lives as no humanitarian service aimed at affecting life’s that will go unrewarded by God.
Comrade Barth Echefu, State Chairman Eastern Union.
Lending his voice, the State Chairman of Eastern union, Comrade Barth Echefu opined that the union is not only about advocacy but also in touching lives and giving the necessary support to the vulnerables in the society.
He said that their visit to LUTH is in tandem with their service to humanity, noting that most deaths witnessed are caused out of high cost of treatment and the rising high cost of medication in our various hospitals.
Comrade Echefu said,”what prompted this movement was to put smiles on the face of the vulnerable and to encourage them not to loose faith in God.
“We are there in our comfort after celebrating Eid-el-fitr and that of Easter, nobody has realized what God has done to them and the only way we can say thank you to Jesus is by trying to touch lives especially the vulnerable ones who are sick,those out of their heart desire wants to be like us, those who are not privileged. We decided to put smiles in the lives of the vulnerable and meet the needs of them.”he stated
Members of the team pose in a group photograph with the lawmaker representing Oshodi/Isolo federal Constituency 2,Hon Bar Okey Joe Onuakalusi.
While urging the government to assist the health care scheme, considering the high cost in medication presently witnessed and to look into the subsiding of the health care sector as most preventable deaths are due to lack of finance and getting the right treatment, stating that subsidizing it will go a long way.
The LGA Oshodi /Isolo Women leader of Labour Party,Mrs Commie Uyanna applauded the Big ways international women of faith foundation for the kind gesture towards the vulnerable, noting that the organization has deem it fit to put smiles and give hope to the hopeless which is highly commendable.
“There is a passage of the bible that l love so much”whatsoever you do to the least of thy brother, that is you do unto me “which is to say that the foundation coming to the hospital to give hope and support goes a long way and l know that those with special care will be happy for the visit”said Uyanna.
She urge different organization, political leaders to always support the needy as it will go a long way in extending the life span of the individual , while calling on the public to buy into the vision of the Bigways International Women of Faith Foundation in affecting lives as no humanitarian service aimed at affecting life’s that will go unrewarded by God.
Pastor Paul Abiodun Afotnta,a representative of the Trisonent Meta Verse commended the Bigways International and the founder, Deaconess Juliet for the initiative, affirming that good health is a major factor in ones life.
Investigator news reports that the team was received with warmth and gratitude as they arrived at the hospital, ready to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Guided by the hospital’s officers from the social welfare department, Mrs.Ranti led the team through the hospital’s emergency and pediatric wards.
Mrs.Ranti expressed gratitude to the Bigways International women of faith foundation for their generosity and kindness towards the vulnerable patients.
She emphasized the importance of collective efforts in assisting those in need, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by many indigent patients in accessing essential healthcare services.
He went further to state that his administration has plans to subsidize and restructure attached pharmacies, ensuring essential drugs are affordable and consistently available, particularly for low-income households.
