Metro
Mikano Boosts Lagos Security with Donation of Fleet of Pickups to LSSTF
In a decisive demonstration of corporate responsibility and deep-rooted commitment to Lagos State’s security advancement, Mikano Motors has donated a fleet of its Max pickup vehicles to the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), reinforcing the state’s belief in private-sector partnership to strengthen public safety and operational response capabilities.
The official handover took place at the Mikano Motors showroom in Victoria Island, Lagos, where senior executives of Mikano International Ltd. led by the Chairman/CEO, Mr. Mofid Karameh warmly received top officials of LSSTF led by the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan in a high profile reception where the officials led them on a tour of the showroom.
The Chairman/CEO, Mikano International Ltd, Mofid Karameh lauded the Executive Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his huge commitment and investment into safety and security which is transforming into prosperity in Lagos. He stressed that the Governor’s proactive engagement at the recent Private Sector Breakfast Meeting provided a strategic platform for private sector leaders to know the immense efforts that the government is putting into security. He assured that the company will continue to give towards strengthening the Lagos security apparatus.
In a gesture of appreciation, the Executive Secretary/CEO, LSSTF, Dr. Ogunsan presented the LSSTF Distinguished Honor Award to Mikano International Ltd for the donation. The award was accepted by the Founder and Chairman/CEO, Mr. Karameh.
The National Operations Manager for Mikano, Syam Abdulkadir, who conducted the official handover highlighted that the donation of the vehicles reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to the safety and well-being of residents. “We are here today at the Mikano Motors showroom in VI Lagos to proudly show our support for the LSSTF by donating our Max pickup vehicles. This is a sign of our support to ensure the safety of Lagosians,” he declared.
He noted that Mikano’s decades-long presence in Nigeria underscores its dedication to nation-building. “We have been in Nigeria for the past three decades. This is a show of commitment that we are here to help build our economy and promote security,” he said.
Offering gratitude on behalf of the company, he added: “I thank the Governor of Lagos State, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan. This is a proud moment and we hope to do more.”
Receiving the vehicles, Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, Executive Secretary/CEO of LSSTF, praised Mikano for taking the lead in responding to the state’s call for enhanced private-sector involvement. “This is a proud moment for Lagos. This is a proud moment for Mikano and for our organization, LSSTF,” he said.
Ogunsan recalled that the Governor’s recent engagement with CEOs at the LSSTF Breakfast Meeting laid the foundation for this gesture. “This entire process started with the Chief Fundraiser, Gov. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who mobilized everyone at the breakfast meeting to make donations to the LSSTF,” he explained.
He emphasized that support to the Fund goes beyond monetary gifts. “We made it clear that we are not only taking cash gifts but also items, equipment, and other things that our private sector has to offer,” he said.
Commending Mikano’s leadership, he added: “We are proud of Mr. Mofid Karameh for showing example and being the first to respond to the call. We are proud of Mikano.”
Ogunsan also called on Nigerians to support businesses that contribute to public safety. “As you support LSSTF, remember to support those who support LSSTF, patronize them, buy their products, and we have no doubt that they will do more,” he urged.
He concluded with an assurance of responsible use: “Thank you so much for this kind gesture. We promise that we will make judicious use of the vehicles.”
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.
The Congress warned that it would embark on nationwide protest, if there is no improvement.
The warning was conveyed in in a communiqué jointly signed by the TUC President, Mr. Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr. Nuhu Toro, at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.
“Government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.
The Congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.
It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.
According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.
It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.
The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.
It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.
“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.
The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.
On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.
The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.
It urged government at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added.
A small-scale grocery seller from Plateau State, Ejiofor Akujieze, has emerged the grand prize winner of ₦5 million in the Golden Morn Golden Hunt, a nationwide consumer campaign by Nestlé Nigeria that rewarded Nigerians with a total of ₦80 million in cash and prizes.
Akujieze, who expressed surprise at his win, described the moment as life-changing. “It came as a shock to me. I won ₦5 million, and it will go a long way. I am very grateful,” he said, noting that the prize will support the expansion of his grocery business.
The Golden Morn Golden Hunt, which commenced in January 2026, recorded strong participation from consumers across the country, with over 200,000 entries received. Designed around Golden Morn’s smaller, affordable pack sizes to encourage wider participation, the campaign made it easier for more Nigerians to take part. At the end of seven draws, a total of 16,324 winners emerged, receiving cash prizes ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦1 million, alongside airtime rewards and exciting items such as washing machines, MacBooks, iPhones, and 55-inch televisions, in addition to the grand prize.
Speaking on the campaign, Omofasa Orhiunu, Category Manager, Healthy Cereals at Nestlé Nigeria, said the initiative was designed to connect more closely with consumers while giving them an opportunity to experience the brand.
“Golden Morn has been part of everyday life for Nigerian families, and with the Golden Hunt, we wanted more people to experience that,” he said. “It gave both our loyal consumers and new ones the opportunity to enjoy a nourishing product that fits into their daily routines, while also being rewarded in a simple and accessible way.”
Also speaking, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to creating value for consumers beyond its products.
“For over 40 years, Golden Morn has been nourishing Nigerian families and earning their trust,” he said. “The Golden Hunt was our way of recognising that trust and giving back in a way that is meaningful and inclusive. What has been most inspiring are the real stories behind the wins, how this has made a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly matters to us.”
Golden Morn, a cherished homegrown brand, continues to provide wholesome nourishment made from carefully selected grains. It is enriched through its Grain Smart blend, which combines essential vitamins and minerals to support energy and overall wellbeing for individuals and families.
Through initiatives like the Golden Hunt, Nestlé Nigeria continues to strengthen its connection with consumers while delivering on its commitment to providing accessible, nutritious food and supporting thriving communities across the country.
A presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, on Monday, consulted former President Goodluck Jonathan on the state of the nation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi disclosed this after a closed-door meeting with the former president in Abuja. He led a delegation of South-East political leaders to the meeting, including serving and former lawmakers, as well as former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the former Anambra State governor said the visit was part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Notable South-East leaders have come in consultation with our respected former president. That is basically what it is—on the 2027 elections and, overall, about Nigeria,” Obi said.
Obi has been holding meetings with political heavyweights across the country as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the ADC presidential primary for the 2027 general elections.
Last week, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party was in Bauchi with South-East leaders, where they held a closed-door meeting with Bala Mohammed.
Speaking after the meeting, Obi said the visit was focused on building national unity and strengthening cooperation across regions.
“My purpose is to solicit the support and cooperation of His Excellency and the stakeholders of Bauchi and the North-East in our quest to unite this country. We want to have a united country to build a future for our children.
“The country cannot continue the way it is today; we are headed in the wrong direction, and we need to reverse that for everybody. That is the simple purpose of why we are here – to seek the support of the stakeholders of Bauchi in building a new Nigeria that will be of benefit to all,” he added.
