Year: 2026
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Hallmark University Sets the Pace with 2026 Public Lecture Series on Sustainability and Firm Performance
Hallmark University, Ijebu-Itele, Ogun State, is set to reaffirm its position as a hub of cutting-edge scholarship and thought leadership as the Faculty of Management and Social Sciences hosts the first edition of its 2026 Public Lecture Series on Thursday, January 29, 2026.
The public lecture, scheduled for 11:00am at the School Auditorium, will focus on a highly topical and policy-relevant theme:
“Does Human Capital Mediate the Relationship between Sustainability Initiative and Firm Performance of Medium-Sized Companies in Nigeria?”
The lecture will also be accessible virtually via Google Meet, underscoring the university’s commitment to inclusivity and global academic engagement.
At the heart of this landmark academic event is the visionary leadership of the Vice Chancellor, Professor Segun Odunola, who will serve as the Chief Host. Under his dynamic stewardship, Hallmark University has continued to strengthen its academic relevance, promote impactful research, and foster meaningful dialogue between the university community, industry, and society. The 2026 Public Lecture Series is another testament to his resolve to position Hallmark University as a centre of excellence that responds to national and global development challenges.
The lecture will be delivered by Dr. Samuel Adedeji, Director of Academic Planning (DAP), Hallmark University, a respected scholar whose work bridges management theory, sustainability, and organizational performance. His presentation is expected to generate deep insights into how human capital development can enhance the effectiveness of sustainability initiatives among Nigeria’s medium-sized enterprises.
The session will be moderated by Professor Obatunde Bright Adetola of the Department of Sociology, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State. A seasoned academic and public intellectual, Professor Adetola’s moderation promises a robust, engaging, and intellectually stimulating discourse.
By convening academics, industry practitioners, policymakers, and students around this critical subject, Hallmark University once again demonstrates its commitment to research-driven solutions and national development. The Public Lecture Series aligns with the university’s broader mission of producing graduates and knowledge that are relevant, innovative, and socially responsive.
Members of the university community, scholars from other institutions, business leaders, and the general public are warmly invited to participate in this landmark event, either physically or virtually.
With initiatives such as this, Hallmark University—under the purposeful leadership of Professor Segun Odunola—continues to set the agenda for impactful scholarship, sustainability discourse, and academic excellence in Nigeria and beyond.
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Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Horse’ wins Hadejia International Horse Racing
By Mohammed Baba Busu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s horse, “Renewed Hope,” has emerged as the overall winner at the end of the Hadejia International Horse Racing Competition.
Renewed Hope clinched the first position after maintaining her winning streak as the fastest horse on the African circuit.
The competition, which successfully concluded in Hadejia, Jigawa State, attracted horses, jockeys, trainers and officials from within and outside Nigeria.
The event marked another milestone in the development of horse racing in the country.
Speaking at the grand finale, the National Chairman of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN), Alhaji Tajuddeen Dantata, said the outstanding performance of “Renewed Hope” had positioned Nigeria for stronger representation on the global horse racing stage.
Dantata said the victory demonstrated the horse’s capacity to compete with top international horses, adding that arrangements are ongoing for her to represent Nigeria at the forthcoming Dubai World Cup.
“This record-breaking performance by the Renewed Hope horse shows clearly that she has the strength, speed and endurance to race with top horses at the Dubai World Cup next season,” he said.
According to him, it has remained the target of the HRFN to ensure Nigeria becomes the first African country to participate competitively in the Dubai International Horse Racing Competition.
He said consultations are ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Sports Commission and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Nigeria to secure all relevant clearances for Nigeria’s participation.
The HRFN chairman described Hadejia as a historic hub of horsemanship and cultural heritage, noting that hosting the race in the ancient town is a tribute to Jigawa state’s rich equestrian traditions.
“Hadejia and its surroundings are steeped in history and tradition. For centuries, the people of this region have celebrated horsemanship, valour and endurance,” Dantata said.
He added that the event reflected the federation’s commitment to expanding the sport, promoting local talent, creating economic opportunities and encouraging youth participation.
Dantata said the federation had, in recent years, strengthened governance, improved race organisation, expanded training programmes and enhanced veterinary and safety standards.
“These efforts have raised the profile of horse racing in Nigeria and created opportunities for breeders, trainers and young talents to excel,” he added.
The Life President of the federation and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, described horse racing as more than a sport, but a tradition built on discipline, respect, courage and partnership between horses and riders.
He said the Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Season 2025/2026 marked a defining chapter in efforts to reposition Nigerian horse racing with dignity and purpose on regional and international platforms.
“The Renewed Hope is not just a theme; it is a commitment to the future of the sport,” he said.
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mallam Bala Ibrahim, said the event had helped revived cultural heritage in Northern Nigeria.
Namadi pledged the state government’s continued support for horse racing activities, describing the sport as a tool for cultural preservation and youth engagement.
The National Coordinator of the event, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar Bida, who is also the Sarkin Dawaki Nupe, said the competition was aimed at honouring tradition while providing a well-coordinated platform for jockeys, trainers, owners and officials.
They said the Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Derby emphasised structure, mentorship and gradual talent development, particularly for young jockeys.
The Sarkin Dawaki Nupe disclosed that five countries, including Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, participated in the competition as international partners.
The Minister, Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mouktar Yawale, assured stakeholders of the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting cultural development and traditional sports across Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
At the end of the competition, “Renewed Hope,” owned by President Bola Tinubu, emerged first overall, clinching a car prize and retaining her position as the fastest horse in Africa.
The horse, born and raised in Bida, Niger State, about two and a half years ago, was sired by a thoroughbred stallion and out of a Sudanese mare.
In all, six cars were won at the event, including the one clinched by Tinubu’s horse.
Tinubu’s Cup, titled “Royal Champion,” alongside a car, was won by a horse from Burkina Faso and presented to the winner by the SSG, who represented the governor.
The event was attended by the Emirs of Kazaure, Dutse, Ringim, Bade, Machina and Nguru, as well as other prominent personalities.
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The Iya Oge of Lagos, Opral Benson, who was earlier declared missing by her family, has reportedly been located in Liberia.
A source close to the family confirmed the development on Tuesday evening, saying the 90-year-old socialite may be experiencing age-related health challenges.
“They have located her in Liberia. I think she might be suffering from dementia due to old age,” the source told Sahara Reporters.
Benson’s family had raised the alarm on Sunday after her whereabouts remained unknown for more than 48 hours.
In a public notice, the family said she was last seen on January 13 and had not returned home since, describing the situation as time-sensitive.
“The family reports that Mama Opral Benson has been missing since Tuesday, January 13, 2026. She has not returned home and her current whereabouts are unknown,” the notice read.
They appealed to members of the public to assist with information that could lead to her location.
“Anyone who has seen her, or has any information, no matter how small, is urged to contact us immediately.
“Call 08037039214. Alternatively, please report to the nearest police station. This is time-sensitive. Please share immediately.”
Efforts to reach the family through the phone number provided in the notice were unsuccessful, as calls went unanswered and text messages were not returned as of the time of filing this report.
Born on February 7, 1935, Opral Benson is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite.
She holds the prestigious traditional title of Iya Oge of Lagos and was married to the late Chief T.O.S. Benson from 1962 until his death.
A former university administrator, Benson has had a long career in education, fashion, and corporate administration. She manages a fashion and beauty school in Lagos and previously served as a director at Johnson’s Products, the Nigerian affiliate of the multinational brand.
In 2012, she was appointed Honorary Consul of Liberia in Lagos, further strengthening her ties to both Nigeria and Liberia.
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FG Completes Eke Obinagu Flyover, Boosts Infrastructure Development in South East.
The Federal Government has completed the Eke Obinagu Flyover, a key infrastructure milestone in the South East, under the supervision of the Minister of Works, Senator Engr. David Umahi, CON.
The project aims to decongest traffic, improve road safety, facilitate smooth movement of goods and people, and enhance regional commerce and connectivity.
The Ministry of Works described the flyover as a demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to delivering impactful, people-oriented infrastructure.
Residents and road users have welcomed the project, while several other road and bridge projects continue across the South East and nationwide to support economic growth and national development.
@asovilladigital | @FMWNIG
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River Park dispute: Court strikes out case against Ghanaian investors, lawyer
An Abuja High Court, on Tuesday, struck out the criminal charge filed against Ghanaian investors and owners of JonahCapital Ltd over the River Park Estate dispute.
Justice Modupe-Osho Adebiyi struck out the matter after the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, withdrew the charges.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Police Force had, on June, 25, 2025, filed a 26-count criminal charge against directors of JonahCapital Ltd.
The police, in the charge, named Sam Jonah, Kojo Ansah, Victor Quainoo, Mobus Property Nigeria Ltd, a company, and their Nigerian lawyer, Abu Arome, as defendants.
The defendants were alleged to have forged documents of the company to claim its owbership.
When the matter was called, AGF’s lawyer, Aishatu Kalthungo, informed the court that she was instructed to discontinue the matter relying on the powers in Section 174 of the 1999 Constitution.
Kalthungo, an Assistant State Counsel, said she had the directive based on an application dated Dec. 30, 2025, and filed on Jan. 2, 2026.
After the lawyer’s application was not opposed by the defendants’ counsel, Justice Adebiyi said, “the case is hereby struck out.”
NAN recalls that the AGF, Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, was reported to have, on Dec. 30, 2025, dismissed allegations of forgery, fraudulent activities against the Ghanaian investors and their Nigerian lawyer.
The development was said to be the basis for the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC)’s unlawful expropriation of their shares to former shareholders of the company.
Consequently, the AGF directed the CAC to immediately rescind all administrative measures taken on the basis of the report of the IGP Monitoring Unit of the Nigerian police.
He also advised the commission “to refrain from taking any action that will undermine the authority and integrity of the courts.”
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ATJODA Hope Foundation Launches 2026 Humanitarian Outreach at Tabitha’s Orphanage in Plateau State
The Atjoda Hope Foundation has officially commenced its 2026 humanitarian outreach with a compassionate visit to Tabitha’s Humanitarian Orphanage Home in Ndai, Panyam District, Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, an institution devoted to restoring hope and dignity to vulnerable children.
The outreach was led by the Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Chief (Mrs.) Josephine Abbas Dayilim, whose presence reflected the organization’s unwavering commitment to serving the most vulnerable members of society. Speaking during the visit, she reiterated that the core mission of Atjoda Hope Foundation is to provide relief and long-term support to orphans, widows, and underprivileged individuals, while also helping to prevent youth involvement in drug abuse and other social vices linked to poverty and neglect.
As part of the visit, Chief. Mrs. Dayilim personally presented a donation comprising essential food items, toiletries, and exercise books. These items were carefully selected to meet the immediate welfare and educational needs of the children, underscoring the Foundation’s holistic approach to humanitarian service.
The gesture symbolized a growing partnership between Atjoda Hope Foundation and Tabitha’s Humanitarian Foundation, united by a shared vision of nurturing, empowering, and uplifting vulnerable children.
The management of Tabitha’s Humanitarian Foundation warmly received the donations and expressed deep appreciation for the timely support. He noted that the items would significantly improve the daily living conditions and learning experience of the children under their care.
The visit further highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration between humanitarian organizations in addressing the complex needs of orphans and vulnerable families.
While addressing the children and caregivers, Chief Mrs. Dayilim emphasized that standing with vulnerable children aligns directly with her personal values and the Foundation’s priorities. She reaffirmed her commitment to continued support, stressing that even the smallest act of kindness can rekindle hope and shape a brighter future for a child in need.
The Chief Executive Officer of Tabitha’s Humanitarian Foundation, Mr. Asabar Ali, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Atjoda Hope Foundation for the thoughtful intervention. He acknowledged the positive impact the donations would have, especially in light of the numerous challenges faced by the orphanage. He also shared the distressing case of a young resident who, following a severe illness, has lost his ability to hear, speak, and see. Due to financial limitations, the home is appealing for support to enable the child undergo urgent and necessary surgery.
The outreach was graced by the presence of notable stakeholders, including a member of the Board of Trustees of Atjoda Hope Foundation, Mrs. Martha Daspan; Hon. Mathew Kwarpo who was represented by his personal assistant Hon. Nanle Allahnanan, the representative of the Mangu Traditional Council, Chief Nathan Fyamang; and the Supervisory Councillor for Social Services, Mangu Local Government Area, Hon. Miss Patience Amos. They offered words of encouragement to the children and caregivers and joined in special prayers for the orphanage and for sustained collaboration between the two foundations.
In furtherance of the visit, Chief Mrs. Dayilim paid a courtesy visit to the District Head of Mangu, His Royal Highness Da Moses Dawop, where she sought royal blessings for the humanitarian initiative. Deeply moved by the gesture, the District Head commended her selfless service and prayed for divine reward and greater opportunities as she continues on her humanitarian journey. He emphasized that such acts of compassion are vital to societal growth and will not go unnoticed.
The outreach stands as a powerful reminder of the impact of empathy, partnership, and purposeful leadership in transforming lives and restoring hope to the most vulnerables.
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Opral Benson, Iya Oge Of Lagos, Declared Missing
By
The family of Opral Benson, the Iya Oge of Lagos, has declared her missing, saying her whereabouts have been unknown for more than 48 hours.
In a notice released on Sunday, the family revealed Benson was last seen on January 13 and has not returned home since then.
Describing the situation as time-sensitive, the family appealed to the public for any information that could help locate her.
“The family reports that Mama Opral Benson has been missing since Tuesday, January 13, 2026. She has not returned home and her current whereabouts are unknown,” the notice reads.
“Anyone who has seen her, or has any information, no matter how small, is urged to contact us immediately.
“Call 08037039214. Alternatively, please report to the nearest police station. This is time-sensitive. Please share immediately.”
Benson, born on February 7, 1935, is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite. She holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos.
She was married to T.O.S. Benson from 1962 until his death and has had a long career spanning education, fashion, and corporate administration.
A former university administrator, Benson manages a fashion and beauty school in Lagos and previously served as a director at Johnson’s Products, the Nigerian affiliate of the multinational brand.
In 2012, she was appointed the honorary consul of Liberia in Lagos.
The family urged the public to share the notice widely to aid ongoing efforts to locate her.
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N1.5 billion Fraud; Edo Court Convicts, Jails Man – One Year
– Or N5 Million Fine
The Benin Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday January 19, 2026 secured the conviction and sentence of Ojo Eghosa Kingsley before Justice W. I. Aziegbemhin of Edo State High Court, sitting in Benin City.
Kingsley was prosecuted by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCc, on one-count charge bordering on stealing by the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Commission. The convict, while being a customer of First Bank fraudulently took possession of over N1.5 billion erroneously credited to his account by the bank.
This was disclosed in a statement by EFCC Spokesman, Dele Oyewale, a copy of which was made available to FLOWERBUDNEWS.
The charge against him reads: ‘That you OJO EGHOSA KINGSLEY (M) sometime between June, 2025 to November, 2025 within the jurisdiction of this honorable Court did steal the aggregate sum of N1,507,502,182.24 (One Billion, Five Hundred and Seven Million, Five Hundred and Two Thousand, One Hundred and Eighty Two Naira, Twenty Four Kobo), property of First Bank Plc by fraudulently converting the said sum to your own use, and thereby committed an offence contrary to contrary to Section 387(1) of Criminal Code Law of Edo State Law, 2022 and punishable under Section 394 of the same Law.’
The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him, prompting the prosecution counsel, M. S. Dahiru to pray the court to convict and sentence him accordingly.
However, counsel to the defendant pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy, stating that the defendant had become remorseful for his action.
Justice Aziegbemhin convicted and sentenced Ojo Eghosa Kingsley to one year imprisonment or a fine of N5 million.
The court ordered the convict to restitute First Bank Plc with the sum N272, 252,193,59 (Two Hundred and Seventy Two Million, Two Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand, One Hundred and Ninety Three Naira, Fifty Nine Kobo) within a stipulated period of time being the balance of the N1.5 billion.
The EFCC had during investigation recovered the sum of N802,420,000 from various bank accounts traced to the defendant, his mother and sister which was handed over to the bank by the Ag Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate, Deputy Commander of the EFCC, DCE Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad on Monday January 12, 2026 while over three hundred million was recovered from the defendant account by the bank through transfer reversal. Aside the restitution, conviction and sentence, the defendant undertook in writing to be of good behaviour going forward.