Metro
Police Confirm Restoration of Nomalcy in Onosa Community
The Lagos State Police Command has restored normalcy in Onosa Community in the Elemoro area of Lagos State, according to a statement made available to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP).
The statement, signed by the Lagos Command Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, recalled that “In the early hours of today, August 29, 2025, six officers from Elemoro Division while on routine patrol encountered an irate mob. In the course of ensuring their own safety, the officers used their firearms, resulting in three individuals sustaining injuries. The injured persons were taken to hospital for medical attention.”
The statement further observed that “The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, promptly responded to the incident by personally leading a detachment of officers to the scene. The swift intervention led to the removal of all barricades, restoring the free flow of traffic in the affected area. CP Jimoh also moved deep into the community and engaged with youth and community leaders in the neighborhood to de-escalate tensions and foster understanding. He has further extended an invitation to these leaders for continued dialogue to address concerns and prevent future occurrences.
“The officers involved in the shooting have been taken into custody as investigations into the incident commence. The Lagos State Police Command is committed to a thorough and transparent inquiry to establish the facts surrounding the event.
“Normalcy has been restored to the area, and significant police presence remains in place to ensure the sustenance of the restored peace and order. The Command urges residents to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and refrain from actions that could disrupt public safety.”
Hundeyin assured members of the public that further updates will be provided as the investigations progress.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), on Monday, released the minimum Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) cut-off marks approved by universities across Nigeria for the 2026 admission exercise.
The cut-off marks were announced following the 2026 Policy Meeting on Admissions to Tertiary Institutions held in Abuja.
According to the approved list, Pan-Atlantic University fixed the highest minimum cut-off mark at 220.
Several institutions, including the University of Benin, University of Lagos, University of Ibadan, University of Nigeria, Covenant University, Air Force Institute of Technology, and Obafemi Awolowo University, adopted 200 as their minimum benchmark.
JAMB stated that the approved figures represent the minimum thresholds for admission consideration.
The Board noted that institutions may still set higher requirements for competitive courses such as medicine, engineering, pharmacy, and law.
Below is the full list of universities and their approved minimum UTME scores for the 2026 admission exercise:
Pan-Atlantic University – 220
Air Force Institute of Technology – 200
Covenant University – 220
Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Abeokuta – 200
Obafemi Awolowo University – 200
University of Benin – 200
University of Ibadan – 200
University of Lagos – 200
University of Nigeria, Nsukka – 200
Lagos State University of Science and Technology – 195
Lagos State University – 195
Lagos State University of Education – 185
Afe Babalola University – 180
Ahmadu Bello University – 180
Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila Orangun – 180
Nigeria Police Academy – 180
Nigerian University of Technology and Management – 180
Shanahan University – 180
University of Abuja (Yakubu Gowon University) – 180
University of Ilorin – 180
University of Jos – 170
Augustine University – 170
Babcock University – 170
Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia – 170
Federal University, Lafia – 170
Ladoke Akintola University of Technology – 170
Nasarawa State University – 170
BITS University, Bwari – 170
Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University – 160
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University – 160
Admiralty University of Nigeria – 160
African Aviation and Aerospace University – 160
Ajayi Crowther University – 160
Al-Hikmah University – 160
Bamidele Olumilua University – 160
Bayero University, Kano – 160
Bells University of Technology – 160
Caleb University – 160
Chrisland University – 160
Dominion University – 160
Emmanuel Alayande University of Education – 160
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta – 160
Federal University of Education, Pankshin – 160
Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo – 160
Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Ekiti – 160
Federal University of Technology, Ikot-Abasi – 160
First Technical University – 160
Imo State University – 160
Isaac Balami University of Aeronautics and Management – 160
Karl Kumm University – 160
Kwara State University – 160
Landmark University – 160
Lead City University – 160
Modibbo Adama University – 160
Nnamdi Azikiwe University – 160
Olabisi Onabanjo University – 160
Osun State University – 160
Plateau State University – 160
Redeemer’s University – 160
Summit University – 160
Tai Solarin University of Education – 160
Taraba State College of Nursing and Midwifery – 160
University of Ilesa – 160
AbdulRasaq Abubakar Toyin University – 150
Adamawa State University – 150
Adeleke University – 150
African School of Economics, Abuja – 150
By Tolulope A. Adegoke PhD
Building on the foundational imperative outlined in Part 1, this discussion delves deeper into the practical pathways, persistent realities, and transformative potential of leadership in Africa. It examines how leadership can drive self-reliance, foster deeper unity, and elevate Africa’s global relevance in a rapidly changing world. The analysis remains balanced, acknowledging both remarkable progress and sobering challenges, while offering actionable solutions for Africa and, by extension, the wider world.
The Current Landscape: Progress Amid Persistent Hurdles
Africa today presents a paradox of promise and pain. On one hand, the continent has recorded notable successes. Countries like Rwanda, Ghana, Botswana, Mauritius, and Senegal have demonstrated that focused leadership can deliver stability, economic growth, and improved governance. Rwanda’s post-genocide reconstruction under President Paul Kagame has become a global reference point for visionary leadership, digital innovation, and gender-inclusive governance. Ghana has maintained relatively stable democratic transitions for decades, while Botswana has transformed diamond wealth into broad-based development through prudent leadership and strong institutions.
On the other hand, significant challenges persist. Many nations continue to grapple with high youth unemployment, infrastructure deficits, climate vulnerability, debt burdens, and recurring political instability. The recent surge in unconstitutional changes of government in parts of the Sahel highlights the fragility of democratic gains. These issues are compounded by external pressures — unfair global trade rules, debt servicing burdens, and the effects of geopolitical rivalries playing out on African soil.
This complex reality underscores a central truth: Africa’s progress is neither linear nor guaranteed. It depends critically on the calibre and orientation of its leadership.
Forging Self-Reliance Through Bold Leadership
Self-reliance is not isolationism; it is the deliberate cultivation of internal capacity to reduce harmful dependencies. Transformative African leaders recognize that true sovereignty begins with economic independence and human dignity. They invest strategically in education systems that produce critical thinkers and innovators rather than mere certificate holders. They promote local content policies that prioritize African entrepreneurs in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, technology, and creative industries.
A practical model is Ethiopia’s industrial parks initiative and agricultural modernization efforts, which, despite challenges, have shown the potential of state-led strategic planning. Similarly, Morocco’s emergence as a regional manufacturing and renewable energy hub illustrates how deliberate leadership can reposition a country within global value chains. Leaders who champion self-reliance also reform agricultural systems, support smallholder farmers with modern techniques and market access, and invest in value addition to move beyond raw commodity exports.
Advancing Unity in Diversity
Unity in Africa does not require uniformity; it requires the mature management of diversity. Effective leaders build national and continental cohesion by promoting inclusive governance, respecting cultural identities, and ensuring equitable resource distribution. They invest in symbols, narratives, and institutions that foster a shared African identity while celebrating diversity.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a historic opportunity in this regard. When fully implemented, it can foster economic interdependence that makes conflict more costly and cooperation more rewarding. Leaders who champion AfCFTA are not just signing agreements; they are laying the foundation for a more united and economically powerful Africa. Successful unity also requires healing historical wounds through genuine reconciliation processes, as seen in Rwanda’s Gacaca courts and South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
Elevating Global Relevance
Africa’s global relevance will not be granted — it must be earned through excellence and strategic engagement. Forward-looking leaders position Africa as a solutions provider rather than a problem to be managed. They leverage the continent’s youthful population, cultural creativity, and natural resources responsibly to contribute to global challenges such as climate change, public health, and sustainable development.
Countries like Kenya (through its tech ecosystem), Nigeria (through its creative industries), and South Africa (through its scientific and industrial capabilities) are already demonstrating this potential. The most effective leaders amplify these successes by investing in quality education, research and development, and global diplomatic engagement that projects African agency rather than victimhood.
Practical Solutions for Current Challenges
To translate vision into reality, African leadership must pursue the following integrated solutions:
- Human Capital Revolution: Reform education systems to emphasize critical thinking, digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership from primary to tertiary levels.
- Institutional Strengthening: Build strong, independent institutions that can withstand changes in government and enforce accountability.
- Economic Transformation: Implement deliberate industrial policies, support local entrepreneurs, and accelerate regional integration through AfCFTA.
- Youth and Women Inclusion: Create structured platforms for meaningful participation of young people and women in governance and economic decision-making.
- Ethical and Accountable Governance: Combat corruption through transparent systems, judicial independence, and citizen engagement.
- Climate and Environmental Leadership: Position Africa as a leader in green economy solutions, leveraging its renewable energy potential and biodiversity.
Balanced Conclusion
Africa stands at a historic crossroads. The challenges are real and significant, but so too is the continent’s potential. Leadership remains the decisive variable. When leaders rise above narrow interests to serve the collective good, Africa does not just survive — it thrives and offers the world new models of resilience and innovation.
The path forward requires a new covenant: between leaders and citizens, between nations and regions, and between Africa and the global community. This covenant must be rooted in trust, mutual accountability, and shared vision. With the right leadership — courageous, ethical, inclusive, and strategic — Africa can forge a new era of self-reliance, unity, and global relevance.
The question is not whether Africa can rise. The question is whether its leaders, supported by an awakened citizenry, will summon the will, wisdom, and courage to make that rise unstoppable. The world is watching, and history is waiting to record the choices made in this decisive decade.
Dr. Tolulope A. Adegoke, AMBP-UN is a globally recognized scholar-practitioner and thought leader at the nexus of security, governance, and strategic leadership. His mission is dedicated to advancing ethical governance, strategic human capital development, resilient nation building, and global peace. He can be reached via: tolulopeadegoke01@gmail.com, globalstageimpacts@gmail.com
There is something special about being on the move and still feeling completely in control. That is the energy Globacom brings to life in its latest television commercials, “Road Trip” and “Department of Imagination” currently ruling the airwaves.
One feels close and familiar; the other bold and futuristic. Together, they tell a story that is simple, exciting, and easy to connect with – the power of seamless connectivity which Globacom continues to avail its customers with consistent network upgrade and investments in new technologies and innovative services.
The first advertisement, “Road Trip”, draws you in from the very first moment. A family sets out on a journey filled with excitement, laughter, music, and those little moments that make travel memorable. It feels real. It feels warm. And as the story unfolds, Glo quietly becomes part of everything.
With familiar faces like Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi, Demola Amoo, Bolaji Ogunmola, and Esan Damilola Catherine, the story feels even more alive. It reflects everyday life, where people just want a network that works when they need it. No stress. No second guessing.
The commercial opens with Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi clearly frustrated as she tries to finish watching a series but keeps losing network signal. She even raises her phone in the air in an attempt to reconnect, but nothing changes.
Her niece, played by Bolaji Ogunmola, and other family members suggest she switches to Glo, but she refuses and insists she is fine. Not for long though.
She soon steps out of the car pretending she wants to buy a snack, but her intention is actually to get a Glo SIM. When she returns and switches it on, everything changes instantly. The signal is strong, the streaming is smooth, and the whole mood lifts. The rest of the trip becomes fun, easy, and stress-free for everyone. Finding the right places becomes effortless. Locations are easy to find. Entertainment flows without interruption. Movies, games, downloads all work seamlessly. It is not loud or dramatic, but that is exactly the point. Glo fits into the moment so naturally, you almost forget it is there.
Along the long stretch of road, the connection stayed strong. That quiet reliability speaks volumes about Glo’s investment in its network and its promise to deliver quality voice and affordable data. With *312#, staying connected remains simple and seamless.
The second commercial, “Department of Imagination”, is equally exciting. It opens a completely different world. From the laying of cables at the beginning of the advert, you can tell something bigger is coming. The tone shifts from familiar to futuristic, from everyday moments to endless possibilities.
Featuring icons like Richard Mofe-Damijo, Hilda Baci, Bamike Adenibuyan, Obehi Brume, Eso Dike, Uche Ufuoegbunam, and Catherine Onoja, the advert takes viewers into a space where imagination leads and technology follows.
“Department of Imagination” brings a beautiful futuristic feel to life. The legendary Richard Mofe-Damijo takes on the role of the Professor, guiding the audience through different sections of this imaginative world. As it moves from one space to another, everything feels advanced and exciting. Games are played as if they are happening in real time, making the experience feel almost real.
We also see Hilda Baci showing how food processing becomes easier and smarter, while Bamike Adenibuyan (Bam-Bam) brings the AI character to life in a very engaging way. The entire playout is beautiful, smooth, and truly entertaining, leaving you with a sense of how exciting the future can be.
Everything feels upgraded. Gaming pulls you in deeper. Cooking becomes smarter and more creative. Healthcare reaches further. Content flows more freely. It is a world where ideas are not limited, but are instead expanded.
A line in the commercial, “Look What You’ve Started”, brings it all together. It feels personal. It feels powerful. It reminds you that every big idea begins somewhere, and with the right support, it can grow into something remarkable. This is where Glo’s intelligent network comes in not as a buzzword, but as a real step into smarter and more meaningful experiences. It reflects a shift in thinking. It is no longer just about doing more. It is about doing better.
Put both adverts side by side, and the message becomes clear. Glo is present in the moments you live every day, and it is also building for the moments you have not even imagined yet.
With the Glo 1 international submarine cable, linking 16 African nations to the United Kingdom and the broader European network, Globacom has redefined the digital landscape, delivering robust and dependable internet bandwidth across Nigeria and the West African region. This landmark, multi-million-dollar infrastructure is a catalyst for transformation, powering the Internet of Things (IoT), advancing e-governance, accelerating e-commerce, and unlocking the full potential of the digital economy and telemedicine. It is ushering in a new era of innovation, connectivity, and boundless opportunities.
From the present to the future, Globacom shows up with confidence, reliability, and vision. The future is not waiting. It is already here, and it is GLO.
