Metro
2025 International Day PWD: Lafarge Africa Plc Empowers 100 PWD on its Disability-to-Ability Programme
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…Partners with Tunde Onakoya, LSETF others
Lafarge Africa Plc, a building solutions company renowned for creating a greener planet through innovation and operational excellence, commemorated International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Thursday, December 4, 2025 with the participants of its Disability-to-Ability (D2A) Programme in partnership with the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) and Tunde Onakoya, Founder, Chess in Slums Africa, and Guinness World Record Holder for the longest marathon chess game.
The D2A Programme, themed “Ability Reimagined,” which recently kicked off, is designed to train 100 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and equip them with market-relevant vocational and entrepreneurial skills that open pathways to employment, business development, and long-term self-reliance. Participants will receive hands-on training in four key areas: Laptop and Phone Repairs, Make-Up and Gele, Wig and Braids Making, and Shoe and Bag Making.
To ensure accessibility and inclusivity, the programme was implemented across two hubs; Ikeja (Lagos West) and Ikorodu (Lagos East), allowing beneficiaries from different parts of the state to participate fully.
Speaking at the event, the DireViola Graham-Douglas, Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Sustainable Development, Lafarge Africa Plc, Viola bed the initiative as a reflection of Lafarge’s commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods. She expressed her appreciation to the partners for championing inclusion and supporting the success of the programme.
Graham-Douglas explained that beyond technical skills, the programme will expose participants to entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and mentorship sessions coordinated by LSETF, ensuring that beneficiaries are not only skilled but also ready to thrive as business owners or professionals in their chosen fields.
“This programme is very important to us at Lafarge and underscores our commitment to our communities. We don’t just produce building solutions, we build society, homes, and empower people to be the best that they possibly can be”, she said.
“Everyone has a right to dignity, to make a living, and we believe in real opportunities. A society is not governed by policy; it is governed by people, committed people, people who really want to make a difference. We really want to make a difference in people’s lives and an inclusive society is one where everyone can make a living and give back in their own way,” she added.
In his speech, the program partner, Tunde Onakoya lifted the spirits of the participants, citing his personal story and how playing chess and reading books allowed him to travel the world despite his condition. He charged the beneficiaries to believe in themselves and take the utmost advantage of the Lafarge D2A programme as a valuable opportunity. He encouraged them to be diligent with their God-given skills and use them as a blessing to the world. He commended Lafarge for providing such an opportunity that empowers people living with disabilities.
Mrs Feyisayo Alayande, the Executive Secretary/CEO of Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), joined other key stakeholders at the event to engage the beneficiaries in a speed mentoring session.
Also speaking, the General Manager, Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, who was represented by Dr Adekola Oluwafunmilayo, Director, Monitoring and Evaluation, LASODA emphasised that the responsibility of building an inclusive society does not lie with the government alone but is a shared task that requires collaboration, compassion, and consistent effort from every stakeholder.
She commended the partnership of Lafarge Africa Plc and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) for the impactful entrepreneurship training, which has over 100 beneficiaries. “By supporting business registration and providing starter toolkits at the end of the training, you are empowering these individuals to begin their entrepreneurial journeys with confidence and clarity. This is the kind of thoughtful support that truly transforms lives, and we at LASODA sincerely appreciate your commitment” she concluded.
About Lafarge Africa Plc
Lafarge Africa Plc, a leading Nigerian building solutions company, is now a member of Huaxin Cement Co. Ltd. Listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group, Lafarge Africa is actively participating in the urbanisation and economic growth of Nigeria, the largest economy in Africa.
Lafarge Africa has the widest footprint in Nigeria with cement operations in the South West (Ewekoro and Sagamu in Ogun State), North East (Ashaka, in Gombe State), South East (Mfamosing, Cross Rivers State) with Ready-Mix operations in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt.
Lafarge Africa leverages its innovative expertise to provide value-added products and services solutions in the building and construction industry in Nigeria. Lafarge Africa Plc is renowned for the production of a wide range of cement solutions designed to meet all building and construction needs from small projects like individual home buildings to major construction projects. Additional information is available on the website at www.lafarge.com.ng
About Huaxin
Huaxin, founded in 1907 and incorporated in China, is listed on the Shanghai and Hong Kong stock exchanges and is among the 10 largest cement groups in the world. In addition to cement, Huaxin operates aggregates and ready-mixed concrete as well as waste management businesses and has its own cement and waste pre-/co-processing equipment manufacturing with proprietary technology. Huaxin is recognised among the world’s top manufacturing enterprises and most valuable brands.
Metro
Olufemi Ogunlolu-Shotunde Complements Abiodun’s Infrastructure Stride, Sponsors Construction of Roads From Ewekoro to Yewa North
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As part of the community social responsibility, Olufemi Ogunlolu-shotunde, through his foundation, Oluogunsho Foundation, has joined forces with Governor Dapo Abiodun’s strides on infrastructure, by sponsoring 11 kilometres of road construction and drainage, facilitated by the Asa Yabo community development association to enhance good road networks in Asa, Yobo, Lala and Agodo Roads from Ewekoro Local Government to Yewa North Local Government.
The Asa Olówó, community development association, commended Ogunlolu-Shotunde for raising their hope in the community, as commuters also hailed his commitment to development.
Olufemi Ogunlolu-Shotunde is a refined leader who has served in many roles, from career-wise to the professional world. He is a humanitarian and development-driven leader, proudly hailed from Ásà Olówó in Ewekoro Local Government Area, Ogun State.
He was born into the reputable Ogunlolu family, to Pa Sunday Ogunlolu-Shotunde (Olówó Àsà)—a lineage known for honour, service, and strong communal values.
Ogunlolu-Shotunde began his educational journey at Doland International School, Akute, Ogun State, where he completed his primary education.
He proceeded to Topmost School, Maryland, Lagos, completing his secondary education in 2002. With a strong inclination for technical excellence and global exposure, Olufemi advanced to the United Kingdom, where he studied Electrical and Electronics Engineering in London.
Following his academic pursuits, he enlisted in the British Army, serving as an Infantry Soldier. His military career was defined by discipline, bravery, and professionalism, with operational deployments across Iraq, Bosnia, and Afghanistan. These experiences refined his leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and crisis-management skills in high-pressure environments.
After an honourable discharge from the British Army in 2010, Olufemi transitioned into civilian life as a Security Consultant, delivering expert services in risk management, security operations, and strategic advisory roles.
In 2013, he further broadened his professional scope by earning a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Oil and Gas Management from the Greenwich School of Management Studies.
He also possesses strong analytical and operational expertise as a certified Data Analyst and a qualified Control Room Manager, enabling him to integrate technology, intelligence, and real-time decision-making across complex systems.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Olufemi Ogunlolu-Shotunde is deeply committed to humanitarian service and grassroots development.
He is the Founder of the Oluogunsho Foundation (Egba fún mi)—a purpose-driven foundation established to touch lives and foster sustainable development among the indigenous people of Ásà Olówó in Ewekoro Local Government Area. The foundation places special emphasis on support for the aged and widows, educational assistance across all levels of institutions, and targeted interventions aimed at uplifting vulnerable members of the community.
A passionate advocate for growth, equity, and community empowerment, Olufemi Ogunlolu-Shotunde continues to leverage his global exposure, professional expertise, and deep-rooted love for his people to drive meaningful impact and lasting development.
Metro
Ogun NUJ Chairman’s 50th Birthday Bash Turns into Heartwarming Act of Kindness for Ogun State’s Aged
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The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju, marked his 50th birthday in a rare display of compassion and service, as he empowered 50 aged men and women drawn from across the State, describing the gesture as a personal thanksgiving and a call to collective humanity.
The celebrant, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju, said celebrating with the aged persons is a modest way of acknowledging the demand for wisdom that the age represents and a heartfelt expression of gratitude for God’s grace, mercy, and faithfulness over the past five decades.
“Our elders represent wisdom, sacrifice, and resilience. Many laboured quietly to build families, communities, and institutions from which we benefit today, and it is therefore both a duty and an honour to recognise and support them, not just with words, but with tangible acts of compassion”, Olanrewaju disclosed.
While fondly remembering his late parents, Comrade Olanrewaju described giving to the aged as his humble way of honouring their memories, and wished they witnessed the celebration as they laid the foundation of who he has become today.
Olanrewaju further expressed deep appreciation to the 50 aged men and women who honoured his invitation, declaring that he was symbolically adopting them as his parents. “From today, I see you as my fathers and mothers. Your prayers will be constant in my life, and I will never take your presence for granted,” he said, drawing applause from the audience.
He thanked members of his NUJ executive, colleagues, his immediate family, partners and well-wishers for standing by him and supporting the “Gifting the Aged” initiative, symbolising ideals of service and humanity.
Earlier, while welcoming guests at the event, the Secretary of the Council, Comrade Bunmi Adigun, said the celebration was deliberately designed to go beyond merriment, noting that the NUJ Chairman chose to “give back meaningfully to society at a time many would focus solely on personal celebration.”
Comrade Adigun commended Olanrewaju’s leadership style, describing him as “a man whose golden jubilee reflects golden values of kindness, empathy and responsibility.” He said the presence of all the beneficiaries affirmed that meaningful change is possible when people come together with a shared sense of purpose.
Dignitaries and colleagues, including a National Officer of the NUJ, Comrade James Sowole, praised the celebrant for living the core values of journalism, while Comrades Abiodun Taiwo and Kemi Orunsolu, described Olanrewaju as a bridge-builder whose life at 50 has been defined by service.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Council, Abiodun Lawal, applauded the chairman for choosing the aged as the focus of his celebration, saying the gesture “sets a standard worthy of emulation.”
The emotional high point of the event came when the celebration was capped by the wife of the celebrant, Mrs Olanrewaju, who eulogised her husband, describing him as “a compassionate man who finds joy not in what he gets, but in what he gives.” She thanked God for his life and prayed for continued strength and wisdom as he journeys through the next phase of life.
The highlight of the event is the distribution of essential food packs containing rice, beans, garri, noodles and essential cooking ingredients to beneficiaries, carefully selected to sustain them for a reasonable period.
Reacting on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mrs Adijatu Ayelabola appreciated the kind gesture of the celebrant, stressing that if well-meaning individuals can emulate this act, the world will be a better place for all to live.
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The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland; Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and the Olowu of Owu, Prof. Saka Adelola Matemilola have backed the initiatives of Egba Economic Summit in constituting a Committee to prepare the New Abeokuta Master Plan which includes the 6 local governments in Ogun Central Senatorial District (Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Ewekoro, Odeda, Obafemi Owode and Ifo).
The committee for the new Abeokuta Master Plan are made up of seasoned Professionals who have achieved greatness in their chosen profession and callings such as Captain Temilola Okesanjo as Chairman.
Technical and other members
1. Prof Oyesiku
2. Alhaji Waheed Kadiri
3. Engr.Bayo Adeola.
4. The President of Egba Economic Summit, Dr Gbenga Adeoye.
5. The EES Admin Secretary will serve as the secretary of the committee.
The President of EES stated that the team are competent enough to carry out their assignments without any supervision from him, and he is there merely to observe the progress and also raise money to ensure the success of the project.
The Olowu of Owu expressed his support for all the initiatives on the development of Egbaland which is Abeokuta and the 6 local governments.
He also pledged his support for all other developmental projects and the advocacy of the Egba Economic Summit.
Captain Temilola Okesanjo, who is also a foundation member of Egba Economic Summit and Chairman of the New Abeokuta Master Plan, expressed sadness about many areas in Abeokuta and insisted that development must be controlled, while some historical buildings must not be sold to boost tourism.
The President of Egba Economic Summit, Dr Gbenga Adoye, while thanking Olowu of Owu at His palace on 13th January 202,6, pleaded with him and all traditional rulers in Ogun Central to back the summit in achieving the goals set out for the next two years.
He stated that a former President of PENGASAN who is the Chairman of Ecogas and Past President of Egba Economic Summit ; Chief Shina Luwoye the Maiyegun elect of Egbaland have indicated his willingness to join the New Master Plan team both financially and to participate in the committee as a volunteer member in any way his service will be required
During the discussions, Olowu mandated the President to go ahead with his plan to get the detail cause of the delay in completing the Ajebo Idi Aba Express Road by Federal Government to reach out to the Minister of Works Engr David Umahi He explained further the Abeokuta Ajebo Express road apart from the fact that it will be a good alternative road to Ibadan from Abeokuta; it will be useful to the Newly Established Permanent site of The University of Medicine and Medical Sciences. (FUMMSA)
Olowu also expressed his worries over the state of the road from Apata in Ibadan to Abeokuta via Omi Adio, noting that at some point, there seems to be a clear difference around Ilugun Bakatari showing that the roads appear bad at the segments that fall under Ogun State and he desires that attention be paid to it by both the state and the Federal government.
The summit President highlights’ EES plan to go into the details of the 2026 budget of Ogun State to know line by line capital projects that affect the Central Senatorial District and follow the implementation up logically.
Chief Olusola Adeoye, the Osupori of Owu Kingdom, thanked the President and his team for their initiatives and agenda for the next two years.
He stated further that he knows how close Dr.Adeoye was to Late Dr Onaolapo Soleye and ask him to prepare ahead of time that some people that can be regarded as enemies of Progress will try everything possible to oppose the Vision of Egba Economic Summit and agenda for massive development advocacy for the next two years, but he must not back down on his goals and with God, nothing will be left undone among the outlined projects for the next 2 years.
In closing, the Olowu promised the Egba Economic Summit President and his team that he will work with the Alake of Egbaland to ensure that the Abeokuta New Master plan becomes a reality, the road from Idi Aba to Ajebo gets completed on time, the Abeokuta City Centre is resuscitated along with other projects to develop Egbaland covering the 6 local governments.
He also stated that right leadership is the secret of development and once selfless people are in leadership, development is guaranteed, but the reverse is the case if selfish people are in leadership and that is why he is happy with the kind of people that are members of Egba Economic Summit Group led by Dr Gbenga Adeoye who is a Lawyer and Chartered Accountant. People like Engr.Ola Sobande from Shell is an example of selfless service, Yinka Chris Coker(Immediate Past President), Bunmi Lawson and Surakatu Lateef, who are all Chartered Accountants like the President, with the combined honour of Law and Accounting.
The President and Captain Okesanjo drove round to inspect the Structures around Olumo Rock from Adagba Street in Itoko, to Sodeke, Ikija and Erunwon to identify historical structures that must be kept as tourist buildings.
All stakeholders, including the Olowu of Owu, agreed that the Egbas have a duty to ensure nobody does anything by omission or commission to obstruct development for any selfish reason(s) and anyone found doing so must be stopped by all means possible.
The President thanked Olowu for supporting the Egba Economic Summit and also commended the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi for Commencing Night Repairs on Sango Otta Abeokuta Ewekoro road to ease movement and promote Economic development while urging him to do something urgently on Apata Ibadan Abeokuta road and Abeokuta OGTV Ajebo road for the sake of the University of Medicine and Medical Science Permanent Site at Ajibayo and to unlock the economic potentials of towns and villages such as Ajebo, Erunwon, Owojo, Obafemi, Kajola, Alapako, Olosun, Layanran, Mosafejo, Oyebola and the areas towards Lagos Ibadan Expressway.
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