The Lagos Forward Network (LFN) has appointed Oreoluwa Afolayan as its new Director General, marking what the group describes as a “strategic and timely” leadership transition.

The announcement was made during a press briefing in Lagos, attended by stakeholders from government, business and development sectors.

A leader for a new phase

LFN says Mr Afolayan brings a mix of public sector experience and private sector expertise to the role.

He previously served as Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State, where he worked on governance and policy coordination.

He has also completed leadership programmes at institutions including the African Leadership Institute West Africa, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), and the Lagos Business School.

Outside government, he works in the financial services sector, focusing on business growth, customer acquisition and product expansion.

“A strategic and timely appointment”

Speaking at the event, LFN Co-Convenor Toluwase Olaniyan said the decision reflects the organisation’s future ambitions.

“Ore Afolayan represents a new generation of leadership defined by clarity, competence and execution. His experience across policy, enterprise and leadership development positions the Lagos Forward Network to build a credible, impactful and future-oriented platform.”

What his role will involve

As Director General, Mr Afolayan will oversee the expansion of LFN’s activities across the state.

His responsibilities include building networks across all local government areas, engaging stakeholders across political and economic sectors, and driving policy discussions.

He is also expected to lead community-focused programmes aimed at economic empowerment and development.

Why it matters

The appointment comes at a time when civic platforms are playing a growing role in shaping governance conversations in Lagos.

LFN says it aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and citizens, particularly in areas such as economic opportunity, leadership development and inclusive growth.

Analysts say leadership changes in such organisations can influence how effectively they mobilise stakeholders and drive policy engagement at the state level.

A platform for progress

LFN describes itself as a coalition of professionals, community leaders and institutions working to support long-term development in Lagos State.

The organisation says its work is built around three core principles: continuity, competence and inclusive growth.

What’s next

With Mr Afolayan’s appointment, the network says it is entering a phase of “structured growth and strategic coordination”.

It plans to scale its outreach, deepen stakeholder engagement and expand its influence in policy and development conversations across Lagos.

The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Oyo/Osun Chapter, has launched a series of humanitarian visits to support vulnerable children and widows, highlighting its commitment to social welfare.

Led by Chairperson Mrs. Omowunmi Adewole, the association visited the Ibadan Motherless Babies Home and the House of Providence Special School for Children with Intellectual Disability, bringing gifts and engaging personally with children in care.

“Every child deserves an opportunity to grow, thrive, and feel valued,” Mrs. Adewole said. “Our outreach reinforces the importance of love, care, and inclusion for all children, especially those in motherless homes or with special needs.”

Recognizing Leadership and Dedication

Mrs. Adewole expressed gratitude to Dr. Mrs. Adeniyi Kikelomo, the National President of COWA, for her guidance and leadership, which she said continues to inspire members nationwide.

She also commended the caregivers and management of both institutions, describing their work as “impactful and deserving of recognition.”

Extending Support to Widows

In addition to supporting children, COWA reached out to widows of Customs officers, presenting items to assist them and reaffirming the association’s commitment to the welfare of officers’ families.

“Even small acts of kindness can create lasting hope and positive change,” Mrs. Adewole added. “COWA remains committed to making meaningful contributions to society.”

Why It Matters

COWA’s outreach underscores the role of professional associations in complementing government welfare efforts. By supporting children and widows, the association fosters inclusion, social solidarity, and community development—values aligned with the principles of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The Acting Customs Area Controller for Oyo/Osun, Deputy Comptroller Wale Adewole, visited two prominent traditional leaders on 12 March 2026 to enlist their support in the fight against smuggling.

The visits to the palaces of the Aseyin of Iseyin Land, Oba (Dr.) Sefiu Olawale Oyebola Adeyeri III, and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, are part of a wider stakeholder engagement strategy aimed at mobilizing community cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s economy.

Why It Matters

Smuggling remains a major challenge for Nigeria’s economy, undermining revenue generation and distorting trade. Customs officials say engaging traditional institutions can help enforce regulations at the community level and raise public awareness about the economic impact of illicit trade.

“Traditional authorities play a crucial role in maintaining peace, security, and order within communities,” DC Adewole said. “We are committed to our mandates of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and facilitation of legitimate trade, and we need community leaders to help sensitize residents about the dangers of smuggling.”

Community Leaders Respond

Oba Adeyeri III of Iseyin praised the Customs Service for its efforts, assuring that his institution would support initiatives aimed at discouraging illegal trade and promoting lawful commerce.

Similarly, Oba Ghandi Olaoye of Ogbomosho described the visit as “timely and commendable,” pledging that his people would assist the Nigeria Customs Service in combatting smuggling and fostering legitimate trade.

“These engagements strengthen operational effectiveness and demonstrate the value of local partnerships in economic governance,” DC Adewole added.

What’s Next

The Oyo/Osun Area Command plans to expand such outreach, engaging more traditional authorities and community stakeholders to ensure the success of anti-smuggling campaigns and sustainable economic growth.