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Culture of Excellence in the Centre of Excellence: The Tokunbo Wahab Charge

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Culture of Excellence in the Centre of Excellence: The Tokunbo Wahab Charge

Culture of Excellence in the Centre of Excellence: The Tokunbo Wahab Charge 

 

 

 

 

When in 2019, Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu appointed Tokunbo Wahab as the Special Adviser on Education in Lagos State Government, those who know him felt the appointment wasn’t as befitting, as they believed he has more capacity for even bigger roles. Little did they know that it was a good thing for him. Crawl before walking; precept upon precept.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He turned that position into a high performing role. Among many other achievements is the addition of 2 new state-owned universities to the tertiary institutions by the State government – Lagos State University of Education (LASUED) and Lagos State University of Science and Technology (LASUSTECH).

It was against this background, that after a landslide victory in the 2023 election, giving a second term to the Sanwo-olu Administration based on numerous achievements of the Governor and his team, Tokunbo Wahab was named the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources. Many who know him well could not but hail the Governor’s choice and appointment, believing this as a more befitting role for the Honourable Commisioner. He came on board fully prepared, and in one week, Lagos felt him. A new Sheriff is in town.

Lagos, the most boisterous city in Nigeria, the 5th largest economy in Africa, and the most populated City in Africa has its accolades and myriad of challenges. Chief amongst these challenges is that of the Environment. Flooding, Dirts, Waste Disposal and Management, Noise Pollution, Environmental Degradation are key issues the Lagos populace deals with on a daily basis.

However, the main cause of all these is the “Culture of Impunity”, that ‘I don’t care attitude’ and sense of irresponsibility by the citizenry. Tokunbo was undaunted by any of these. It is therefore instructive to note that in the very first week of assuming office, he unveiled a vision “towards a cleaner and greener lagos”, and he set to work with a clarity of purpose and deep sense of urgency.

He engaged his team and Agencies within his Ministry, identifying the challenges, the hotspots,blindspots, and the usual suspects as they set out on this daunting task of cleaning up lagos. Firstly the markets were visited to ensure cleanliness, and those found wanting in keeping to the environmental fidelity were shut. Markets like Alayabiagba, Ile Epo, Owode Onirin, Alaba International Market, Mile 2 fruits market, Ajah Market etc. were either self-censoring or sanctioned.

Today, the fear of the ministry and its officials is the beginning of wisdom for markets, lounges, religious centres and environmental offenders. Today, markets and estates are using their initiatives to ensure a clean and habitable environment even before the visit of officials.

At some point when some zealots in one particular market went on the Social Media with spurious allegations that certain officials were demanding bribes to reopen their market, the Honourable Commissioner challenged them to name the culprits if there were such. Keen Observers knew immediately that this was a trumped up lie; those who know, can vouch without wincing that the new Commissioner cannot be bribed or bought. With what? they’ll be quick to ask. God has blessed him beyond his imaginations, and this silent philanthropist has been adding value to numerous people’s lives across the country for years even before finding himself in public service. This “Do Good” Lawyer has been a phenomenal personality who has been blessing thousands of people via Education, Health, Legal and other supports from Epe to Ogbomosho, Lagos to Borno and across the landscapes.

If you will name 20 performing political appointees in Nigeria today, Tokunbo Wahab will stand tall amongst them; if you name 10 appointees or Govt official that has ever served in Lagos State since 1999, he will be a leading figure; and if you are required to name one topmost performer in the current Sanwo-olu Administration, he will take the day.

Lagos is wearing a new look right now. The “Culture of Impunity” is changing across locations with his war against street trading, dirty markets, open defecation, etc. amid his flood prevention drive, water management, environmental protection, and several other initiatives. The ‘culture’ of impunity has been replaced with a new ‘Culture ‘ of Excellence befitting Lagos which prides herself as the “Centre of Excellence”.

This is one appointment that best describes the saying, ‘a square peg in a square hole’.

It is believed that the acknowledgement of his achievements in the last few months will serve as a call to greater service and a testament that Lagosians recognise performance and will reward it. Kudos to this high performer and ‘Congratulations’ to Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu for his commitment to exceptional performance. Lagos will not forget you.

Sola Fajobi is a Content Creator, Media & Entertainment Entrepreneur. He resides in Lagos.

 

 

Culture of Excellence in the Centre of Excellence: The Tokunbo Wahab Charge

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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