Education
The Compatriot Newspaper Launches in Lagos as Police, Media Leaders Call for Truth and Accountability
The unveiling of The Compatriot newspaper brought together journalists, legal practitioners, security officials and industry stakeholders who stressed the importance of responsible journalism and leadership.
Speakers said the new publication aims to promote truthful storytelling, celebrate outstanding achievements and encourage national development.
Managing Editor outlines mission of the newspaper
Delivering the welcome address, Managing Editor, The Compatriot Newspaper, Joshua Uloko said the event marked both a celebration of excellence and the birth of a new journalism platform.
He described the occasion as a moment dedicated to recognising individuals whose work has positively impacted society.
“Distinguished guests, eminent personalities, members of the press, award recipients and ladies and gentlemen, good day. It is with immense joy and a deep sense of honour that I welcome you all to this remarkable occasion – the Compatriot Excellence Award and Man of the Year Ceremony, alongside the official unveiling of our newspaper.”
Uloko said the award was created to recognise individuals who demonstrate integrity, innovation and service to humanity.
According to him, celebrating such achievements helps inspire others to pursue leadership and excellence.
“We gather to recognise individuals whose lives and work have left a lasting impact in their fields and communities. The Compatriot Excellence Award was created to honour men and women who exemplify integrity, innovation, service and dedication to humanity.”
He noted that acknowledging achievements can encourage others to pursue impactful leadership.
Uloko also explained the motivation behind launching the newspaper.
“Today’s event also marks a historic milestone – the unveiling of our newspaper. This publication was established with a clear mission: to amplify positive stories, promote responsible journalism and provide a credible platform for information that inspires development and unity.”
He added that the publication aims to highlight excellence and encourage accountability in society.
“In a world where news often emphasises negativity, this platform will highlight excellence, celebrate achievers, promote accountability and give voice to stories that drive progress in our communities and across the nation.”
Uloko urged the audience to support the new platform and its vision.
“Our goal is simple yet powerful: to foster truth, professionalism and the celebration of excellence. Through this newspaper, we aim to encourage responsible leadership, inspire younger generations and promote dialogue that contributes meaningfully to the development of society.”
He concluded by inviting stakeholders to embrace the publication as a platform for positive change.
“Ladies and gentlemen, today represents two intertwined ideals – the celebration of excellence and the launch of a platform for impactful storytelling. I invite you to support this vision, champion the awardees and embrace the newspaper as a beacon of truth, recognition and positive change.”
Police call for responsibility and partnership
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Lagos, CP Saadat, commended award recipients for their contributions to professional excellence.
She said recognition often comes with higher expectations.
“To whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.
The police chief encouraged recipients to maintain their standards and continue contributing to national development.
She added that the Nigeria Police Force would continue working with stakeholders to build a better Nigeria. 
Legal practitioner says recognition inspires dedication
One of the honourees, Barrister Animashaun Ajani Moruf, described the award as an honour and encouragement to continue serving the justice system diligently.
“It is a privilege from God to be selected among peers and contemporaries,” he said.
The legal officer attached to the Force Criminal Investigation Department said the recognition reflects dedication to duty and professional commitment.
Moruf explained that his core responsibility as a prosecuting counsel is ensuring effective prosecution of suspects in criminal cases.
According to him, diligent prosecution helps secure convictions and contributes to a crime-free society.
He added that previous recognitions, including an award received in November and an upcoming Rainbow of Fame Award, continue to motivate him to perform better.
Media must remain fearless – Actors Guild spokesperson
Speaking with journalists at the event, Cornell Udofia, Public Relations Officer of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, stressed the importance of truthful reporting.
He said the media plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable.
“The media must always stand for truth and seek truth from those in power,” he said.
Udofia added that balanced journalism requires acknowledging good performance while criticising failures.
He also advised journalists to remain courageous and committed to ethical reporting.
Why the launch matters
Nigeria’s media landscape continues to evolve with the emergence of new platforms seeking to shape public discourse.
Industry observers say responsible journalism remains vital in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring transparency.
Newspapers and digital media platforms also play a role in documenting achievements and encouraging civic participation.
What’s next for The Compatriot
Organisers say the publication will focus on governance, leadership, human-interest stories and national development issues.
The newspaper also plans to continue hosting annual Excellence Awards to recognise individuals making positive contributions in different sectors.
Education
OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor Urges Reflection, Hope in Easter Message to Christians
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.
Education
Aiyedatiwa to Deliver FUTA 2026 Foundation Day Lecture on Technology and Leadership
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will deliver the 2026 Foundation Day Lecture of Federal University of Technology Akure on April 16, as part of activities marking the institution’s anniversary.
The lecture, scheduled for 10:00 AM at the Obafemi Awolowo Auditorium, will focus on the theme: “Leadership and Organisational Performance: Technology as a Driver.”
Why it matters
The event comes at a time when Nigerian universities and public institutions are increasingly turning to digital innovation to improve efficiency and governance.
Experts say discussions around leadership and technology are crucial for shaping policy direction, improving institutional performance, and preparing graduates for a fast-evolving global economy.
The lecture is also expected to strengthen collaboration between government, academia, and industry stakeholders.
Who will attend
According to organisers, the event will attract key figures from across sectors, including:
Academic and administrative heads of higher institutions
Professional university administrators
Government officials from ministries, departments, and agencies
Traditional leaders and education stakeholders
This broad participation reflects the lecture’s role as a platform for dialogue between “town and gown” — a long-standing academic tradition.
Key roles and organisers
The Vice-Chancellor of FUTA, Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, will chair the occasion, while the Registrar, Charles Adeleye, will serve as host.
In a statement issued by the university’s Director of Corporate Communications and Protocol, the Foundation Day Lecture was described as “one of the special academic events that brings together Town and Gown.”
Tradition and academic significance
Foundation Day lectures are a longstanding feature in Nigerian universities, marking institutional milestones while offering a platform for thought leadership on national and global issues.
At FUTA, the annual lecture has evolved into a high-level forum for policy conversations, innovation, and academic exchange.
What’s next
The 2026 lecture is expected to generate conversations around how technology can enhance governance, leadership accountability, and institutional productivity across Nigeria’s education sector and beyond.
Observers say outcomes from the event could influence both policy discussions and academic research directions in the coming years.
Education
Nigeria Customs Marks One Year of ‘Customs Cares’ with Abuja School Upgrade
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, Customs Cares, with the commissioning of a major school project in Abuja.
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, unveiled the intervention on Tuesday at Government Secondary School Wuse, describing it as a milestone in the agency’s community development efforts.
“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school,” Mr Adeniyi said.
“The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done.”
The project includes renovated facilities, solar-powered lighting, CCTV installation and new educational materials aimed at improving both safety and learning conditions.
Why it matters
Education experts say targeted infrastructure upgrades can significantly improve student outcomes in public schools.
Adeniyi said the intervention goes beyond physical improvements, focusing on confidence-building and personal development.
“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.
Nigeria’s public school system has long faced challenges including poor infrastructure and limited resources, making partnerships like this increasingly important.
What has changed at the school
According to the school’s principal, Josephine Ugwu, the intervention has transformed the learning environment.
“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.
The upgrade includes:
Renovation of a multi-purpose hall
Installation of CCTV cameras
Solar-powered street lighting
Distribution of educational materials
School authorities say the improvements have already strengthened both academic performance and student engagement.
Government and institutional response
The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration.
“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.
He added that such initiatives open the door for deeper partnerships between government agencies and the education sector.
Inside the ‘Customs Cares’ initiative
The Customs Cares programme was launched to address development gaps in communities where the NCS operates.
The Comptroller in charge of the unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the initiative has expanded rapidly within its first year.
“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country,” she said.
“This intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development.”
Sustainability concerns
CGC Adeniyi warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance and called for stronger partnerships to sustain the investment.
“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.
He also urged students to make full use of the facilities, particularly in developing communication and public speaking skills.
Community engagement and activities
The event also featured community-focused activities, including a basketball match between Customs officials and students.
Tree planting exercises involving senior officials and education stakeholders were also held, reinforcing environmental awareness.
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