Speakers at annual Lagos event emphasise selfless leadership, call for investment in people over personal accolades

Stakeholders and community leaders gathered in Lagos on Sunday for the third annual Daniel Taiwo Odukoya Memorial Lecture, where they called on Nigerians to prioritise selfless service, purposeful leadership, and a renewed commitment to nation building. The event, held to mark what would have been the late Pastor Odukoya’s 70th birthday, attracted participants from various walks of life who highlighted the importance of investing in people for lasting societal impact.

The lecture featured several prominent speakers who stressed that national transformation is only possible when individuals place communal progress above personal recognition. Attendees reflected on Odukoya’s legacy as a model of integrity and dedication to uplifting others, with organisers noting that his example should inspire current and future generations of leaders across Nigeria.

The memorial lecture has become a notable annual gathering in Lagos, serving as a platform for dialogue on values-driven leadership and collective responsibility. Participants said the discussion was timely given Nigeria’s ongoing challenges with governance and social cohesion, arguing that sustainable development requires both visionary leaders and active citizen engagement.

While no government officials were directly quoted at the event, speakers repeatedly urged public office holders to emulate the servant-leadership ethos championed by Pastor Odukoya. They also encouraged young Nigerians to seek opportunities for community service, insisting that true legacy is measured not by titles but by positive influence on others.

Organisers announced plans to expand outreach programmes inspired by Odukoya’s work in coming months, aiming to mentor youth and promote ethical leadership across Lagos State and beyond. The annual lecture is expected to continue fostering conversations around national unity and purposeful development.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/events/service-leadership-nation-building-take-lead-at-odukoyas-70th-memorial-lecture/

Authorities highlight improved prosecution rates as state intensifies fight against gender-based violence in North-West region

Sokoto State has recorded a total of 883 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) over the past year, with authorities confirming that 22 convictions were secured during this period. The data was released on Friday by officials monitoring GBV trends in the state, underscoring ongoing efforts to tackle the menace in the North-West.

According to the figures, Sokoto’s judicial system processed several cases through the courts, leading to convictions for various forms of GBV, including assault and sexual offences. Officials attributed the rise in reported cases to increased public awareness and better support systems for survivors across communities in Sokoto State.

Gender-based violence has remained a significant challenge in many parts of Nigeria, with women and children often at heightened risk. The Sokoto State government and civil society organisations have continued to sensitise residents on reporting mechanisms and legal support available for victims. Stakeholders say the conviction rate marks an improvement from previous years, reflecting stronger collaboration between law enforcement and judicial officers.

While welcoming the progress made, authorities acknowledged that more work needs to be done to ensure justice for all survivors and deterrence for perpetrators. They called on residents to continue reporting incidents promptly and assured that government will sustain investments in legal aid services and survivor support centres. The focus now shifts to scaling up preventive education and ensuring every case is diligently prosecuted.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/890986-sokoto-records-883-gbv-cases-secures-22-convictions-in-one-year.html

Lagos-based film star describes intense training and emotional journey as motivation for enlisting in United States military

Nollywood actor Joseph Momodu, based in Lagos, has formally joined the United States Army, describing the decision as a significant personal achievement and a way of honouring his late father’s legacy of service. The announcement was made public on Friday via Momodu’s official Instagram page, where he detailed his experiences and the demanding process of military enlistment.

According to Momodu, the transition into military life was marked by rigorous training that tested his physical and mental limits. He recounted enduring long days with limited communication, persistent fatigue, and moments of doubt. “From inception, I have always believed in achievements earned through merit, which is why I constantly push myself beyond limits,” Momodu stated in his post. “This particular one was forged through tears, fear of failure, resilience, endless days, short nights, fatigue, rain, and the scorching sun.”

Momodu’s move has drawn attention among fans and colleagues in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, given his established presence in Nollywood films. The actor explained that the decision to enlist was influenced by a desire to live up to his late father’s legacy of service to country and community—values he says have always guided him. The development comes at a time when several Nigerian professionals are pursuing opportunities abroad amidst ongoing debates about national service and brain drain.

While reactions from industry stakeholders have been largely supportive on social media, some observers note that Momodu’s transition mirrors a broader trend of Nigerian talents seeking new paths internationally. As at press time, representatives from the Actors Guild of Nigeria could not be immediately reached for comment on the development.

With this career switch, Joseph Momodu joins a growing list of Nigerians contributing to international institutions abroad. For many young Nigerians following his journey online, Momodu’s story highlights both the challenges and rewards of charting new territory outside the country.

Source: https://guardian.ng/life/nollywood-actor-joseph-momodu-joins-us-army/