🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Lawyers challenge alleged privatization of Abuja's Jabi Lake Park
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
Masalaha Law & Associates has issued a pre-action notice to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Nyesom Wike, regarding alleged lack of transparency and developments at Jabi Lake Park. The firm, representing IESP Initiative and Concerned Residents and Users of the park, claims authorities failed to disclose public records and permitted developments without proper legal authorization. They highlight that Jabi Lake Park is a designated public recreational space and express concern over ongoing construction and potential privatization activities without public disclosure of the legal basis or concession arrangements. An earlier Freedom of Information request for the park's master plan, land use designations, and details of any public-private partnerships, including Environmental Impact Assessments and planning approvals, went unanswered within the statutory timeframe. The lawyers warn of legal action, including seeking an order of mandamus to compel disclosure, a declaration that any undisclosed privatization is unlawful, or an order setting aside inconsistent allocations. In response, Olayinka Lere, media aide to the FCT Minister, stated that the development plan for Jabi Lake Waterfront was made public on February 13, 2026, following an MoU signing between the FCTA and private firms Suburban Broadband and Akida Hills Limited. Lere asserted that the agreement was transparent, aimed at transforming the waterfront into a luxury tourism destination, and th
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Former Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi will be inscribed on the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to Nigerian football. This was confirmed by former Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami during a memorial lecture in Lagos. The NIIA Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame is a national monument established by the Federal Government to immortalize Nigerians who have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s international politics and diplomatic objectives through sports. Keshi's role in advancing Nigeria's foreign relations through football will be acknowledged at a ceremony on July 28, one day before the 10th anniversary of his burial. The event also marks three years since the monument was erected within the NIIA premises in Lagos, with sponsorship from Dr Allen Onyema and Air Peace. Odegbami stated that Keshi, a former Nigerian Green Eagles captain and national team coach, has been deemed worthy by the NIIA. Keshi played and captained the Nigerian national football team, coached Nigeria to an African Cup victory, and led Togo to the FIFA World Cup. He also assisted a generation of Nigerian and African football players in transitioning to professional ranks in Europe. Keshi, who died on June 7, 2016, at 54, won the Africa Cup of Nations as both captain in 1994 and coach in 2013, and led Nigeria to the 2014 FIFA World Cup. He was named CAF Coach of the Year twice, in 2005 and 2013.
Professor Funso Afolabi, Chairman of the Governing Council of Yaba College of Technology, stated that Nigeria's tertiary institutions possess the capacity to develop innovative security technologies and community-based solutions for the nation's security challenges. Speaking during a visit by the Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti Kingdom, Oba Adeola Ajakaiye, Afolabi emphasized that universities and polytechnics have the intellectual resources and research capabilities to create homegrown technological solutions supporting national security objectives. He advocated for a national policy framework to strengthen collaboration among tertiary institutions, traditional institutions, and local communities, noting that modern traditional rulers are critical stakeholders in education, security, and economic development. Afolabi also highlighted the importance of increased investment in technical and vocational education to address unemployment and skills deficits. The Oluyin of Iyin-Ekiti, Oba Adeola Ajakaiye, described his visit as a strategic engagement aimed at fostering developmental outcomes, expressing optimism that YABATECH's expertise could contribute to indigenous security solutions. The Rector of YABATECH, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, reaffirmed the college's commitment to empowering young Nigerians, especially girls, through entrepreneurship and skills acquisition programs.
Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has expressed confidence that outstanding players from the inaugural Italian Consulate General U-20 Cup in Lagos possess the skills for Serie A careers. Martins, who played for Inter Milan and Newcastle United, served as an ambassador for the tournament and pledged to use his connections to link top talents with European clubs. The six-day competition, held from June 2-7 at Mobolaji Johnson Stadium, was organized by the Italian Consulate General in Lagos to identify youth talent and foster cultural exchange between Nigeria and Italy. Eight teams, including Okaka FC, Plateau United, Bendel Insurance, and 36 Lions FC, participated. Tournament organizer Emmanuel Omijeh noted that the quality of players exceeded expectations, making the selection of 20 prospects for a trip to Italy challenging from 40 scouted stars. Italian Consul General Ugo Bani and former Super Eagles midfielder Christian Obodo, who also had a distinguished Serie A career, praised the tournament's success and the high standard of play. Tournament technical director Ken Enofe and chairman Kofo Williams also commended the talent on display, acknowledging the need for further coaching. The winning team and selected standout players will travel to Italy for trials with the goal of securing professional contracts.