The Vice-Chancellor of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, has extended Easter greetings to Christians, urging them to embrace love, hope and sacrifice during the season.

Easter Message to University Community

In a statement marking Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Prof. Ologunorisa conveyed warm wishes to members of the university community and Christians beyond the institution.

He emphasised the importance of reflection and renewal, describing Easter as a period that should inspire both personal growth and collective responsibility.

“May this sacred period bring reflection, renewal, and joy to your hearts and homes,” he said.

Why It Matters

Easter is one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, symbolising sacrifice, hope and new beginnings.

For academic communities like OAUSTECH, such messages often serve as a reminder of shared values, including service, compassion and excellence—principles seen as essential in shaping both students and society.

Call for Compassion and Service

The Vice-Chancellor encouraged individuals to translate the lessons of the season into action, particularly in how they relate with others.

“May the spirit of love, hope, and sacrifice that defines this season inspire us all to greater heights of service, compassion, and excellence.”

His message aligns with broader calls across Nigeria during festive periods for unity, empathy and social responsibility.

Wider Context

Across Nigeria, religious and community leaders typically use Easter messages to address national values and encourage peaceful coexistence.

In recent years, such messages have also highlighted the role of education in fostering ethical leadership and civic responsibility.

What’s Next

Easter celebrations across campuses and communities are expected to continue through the weekend, with religious services, outreach activities and social gatherings.

Institutions like OAUSTECH are also expected to resume academic activities shortly after the holiday period.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned a new Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ complex of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Iperu, Ogun State.

The move marks a significant step in the agency’s expansion and reform drive, aimed at improving operations, staff welfare, and trade efficiency.

The commissioning took place on Saturday, 4 April 2026, alongside the launch of a nearby cargo airport facility.

Why it matters

The new complex is expected to ease operational pressure on existing facilities in Ikeja, Lagos, while strengthening customs enforcement and trade facilitation in Nigeria’s busiest commercial corridor.

It also reflects broader efforts by the federal government to modernise infrastructure and boost economic activity beyond Lagos.

Customs chief highlights expansion

Speaking at the event, Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the relocation was driven by growing operational demands and space constraints.

“We’ve just commissioned the Federal Operations Unit; they will be moving here as soon as possible. It’s already been furnished,” he said.

“The accessories that would ensure proper functioning of the facilities have also been installed. Provision of a modern armoury… and the warehouse directly opposite this facility will also support the warehouse at the nearby aviation village.”

He added that the project aligns with the Service’s mandate of revenue generation, enforcement, and trade facilitation, while improving staff welfare.

Cost concerns and long-term vision

Adeniyi revealed that the project was initially valued at ₦73bn but may be reviewed due to changing economic conditions.

The site is expected to house about 142 buildings, including a training college, multipurpose halls, and a sports complex.

He also confirmed that Customs officers have already begun operations at the newly commissioned cargo airport.

“We’re already at the airport… our officers performed tallying when Mr President witnessed the offloading of the first cargo.”

Ogun partnership and continuity

The Customs chief praised Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for supporting the relocation project.

He also acknowledged former Comptroller-General Hameed Ali (Rtd) for initiating the development.

Industry and public perspective

Analysts say decentralising customs operations could improve cargo clearance times and reduce congestion in Lagos.

Trade experts also note that improved infrastructure may strengthen Nigeria’s position as a regional logistics hub.

However, concerns remain about project costs and long-term maintenance amid economic pressures.

Customs boss backs Team Nigeria

In a separate development, Adeniyi has been unveiled as one of the official ambassadors for Team Nigeria ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

The initiative, announced on 1 April 2026, brings together administrators, former athletes, and key stakeholders to support Nigeria’s preparations.

The team includes figures such as Saleh Ahmadu, Amos Adamu, Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye, alongside athletes like Olympic medallist Daniel Igali and wrestler Blessing Oborodudu.

“Sports unite the nation”

Adeniyi described sports as a powerful tool for national unity and global visibility.

“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but on the strength of the support system around them,” he said.

“This ambassadorial initiative is a step in the right direction towards building that collective responsibility.”

What’s next

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from 23 July to 2 August.

Nigeria is expected to compete in events including athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, and gymnastics, with full inclusion of para-sports.

Meanwhile, the Customs Service is expected to complete the relocation of its FOU Zone ‘A’ operations to the new Ogun facility in the coming months.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has deployed additional personnel and equipment across Lagos ahead of the Easter holidays, warning motorists against drunk driving and reckless behaviour.

The agency also confirmed it has launched an investigation into allegations that some of its officers extorted ₦100,000 from commercial drivers along the Coastal Road.

Easter travel: Increased traffic expected

Lagos typically sees a surge in movement during Easter, with commuters travelling for religious activities, leisure and family visits.

LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the agency is taking proactive steps to manage traffic and prevent accidents.

He urged motorists to exercise caution and comply with traffic laws.

“We appeal to all motorists to demonstrate exemplary conduct, exercise patience and obey all directives issued by Officers on duty,” he said.

“Safety is a collective obligation and every driver must understand that a single moment of impaired judgment whether through drunk driving or reckless speed may result in irreversible loss.”

Expanded deployment across Lagos

The agency said it has stationed officers across major highways, intersections, transport hubs, religious centres and recreational areas.

Tow trucks, traffic cones and safety barriers have also been deployed to respond quickly to breakdowns and road incidents.

“We have likewise deployed both high and medium capacity tow trucks… to restore order with minimal delay,” Mr Bakare-Oki added.

The move, according to the agency, is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of people, goods and services during the festive period.

Why it matters

Road accidents often increase during festive seasons due to speeding, alcohol consumption and traffic congestion.

Authorities say improved enforcement and public cooperation can reduce crashes and save lives.

Commercial drivers, fleet operators and transport unions have also been urged to educate their members on safe driving practices, including avoiding overloading and substance use.

Investigation into ₦100,000 extortion allegation

Separately, LASTMA said it is investigating claims circulating on social media that its officers demanded ₦100,000 from drivers before releasing impounded vehicles.

The agency described the allegation as serious and said it does not tolerate misconduct.

“LASTMA remains a disciplined, professional and ethically guided government institution that does not, under any circumstances, condone misconduct, abuse of office or extortion,” the statement said.

The agency has invited the accuser, identified as Tosin, to provide evidence at its headquarters in Oshodi.

It also pledged that any officer found guilty would face disciplinary action.

Public trust and accountability

LASTMA said the investigation reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability.

Residents have been encouraged to report traffic violations and misconduct through official channels.

For many Lagos commuters, the outcome of the investigation could influence public trust in traffic enforcement agencies.

What’s next

The agency says it will continue monitoring traffic conditions throughout Easter and respond to incidents in real time.

Findings from the extortion investigation are expected after a full review of evidence.