society
No, it is not just a bus stop! By Muyiwa Kayode
This is no ordinary Bus Stop. It is an iconic development which marks another milestone in the development of Lagos and another evidence of the visionary leadership that is so sorely missing in the rest of the country. Instead of asking other governors to take a cue from Lagos and launch their states into an era of 21st century development, Nigerians were broadcasting silly messages on Whatsapp, berating President Buhari for coming to Lagos ‘to commission a bus stop’. Meanwhile, there is no such standard in other parts of the country. This is not just a bus stop, but an important milestone in the State Bus Reform Project.
According to Governor Ambode, the first phase of the program will see the unveiling of 13 new terminals including major terminals at several strategic locations across the state. 5,000 new buses will be introduced over the next three years including 820 eco-friendly high capacity buses by September 2018. There will be 300 new bus stops, bus depots and Intelligent Transport System which will help commuters plan their journeys on the public transport system. It’s a transformational vision. I wish Mr President had brought the FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello with him. Under Bello’s watch, our Federal Capital City has continued a progressive decay and rapidly becoming an embarrassment to the nation. I do not think Bello understands he is presiding over the capital city of the world’s largest black nation and Africa’s most populous country. It is indeed Abuja that should be leading the way in terms of iconic projects. Our FCT should be setting the pace. But sadly, this is not the case. No, it is not just a bus stop.
Our people are suffering from chronic scepticism and incurable pessimism. If they see this same kind of bus terminal in Dubai, they will say ‘go to Dubai and see what the bus stops look like’. But do something similar in Lagos and it is ‘just a bus stop’. What is wrong with us? Success is not a destination but a journey. It has no end but only new beginnings. We must therefore learn to celebrate every step we take in this success journey. We must accentuate those things that tell us there is hope for our country to attain the heights we dream of. No, it is not just a bus stop.
This bus terminal looks far more beautiful than some airport terminals in this country. They are neither iconic nor do they justify the humongous amounts of money spent to build them. I have seen multi billion naira airports in this country whose terminal buildings look like community town halls in the village square. We need more developments like the Ikeja Bus Terminal, to give us the belief that it is possible to build our nation into something we can all be proud of. I understand that many decades of failed promises and false dawns have created a pervasive atmosphere of hopelessness and despair. But that should not kill our hopes altogether. No, it is not just a bus stop.
It is a sign of greater things to come. It is also a call to the other governors in this country to wake up and give their people something to be proud of. Every governor should do at least one or two things that had never been done in their states before. If we had our governors thinking this way, I believe our country will develop more rapidly than what we are witnessing today. We should look beyond putting functional projects in place and actually make those projects and structures iconic. They should be landmarks. This is what makes great cities. If you go to Dubai and see their air conditioned bus stops, it will certainly make a positive impression on you and add to the unique status of that city. The city of London derives some of its beauty and uniqueness from its double decker buses. Our leaders are some of the most widely travelled people on this planet. They know and see these things. Why is it impossible for them to use that knowledge and exposure for the improvement of our nation and our people? You don’t have to copy what you see abroad but seeing it should tell you there is so much you can do to give your cities their own unique identities. No, it is not just a bus stop.
It is destination branding. We must put structures in place to build our cities into tourist destinations. This means upgrading and elevating our facilities to the standards international travellers are familiar with. Many of our people travel frequently and are well aware of the standards available at major cities in other parts of the world. Why must we continue to be different? If at any time we see any of our leaders doing something that points in the right direction, we should acknowledge and celebrate it. We may not be making the rapid progress we all desire for our country but we must encourage those trying to move us forward. The drive to diversify our economy must give priority to tourism in those cities where the viability for tourism development is high. Lagos is top of that list. With tens of kilometres of beaches, islands and world class hotels, the state offers a great variety of entertainment for tourists within a safe and very vibrant and energetic environment. No, it is not just a bus stop.
It is an indication that other state governors need to step up their game. In each state, the leadership must take a strategic look at developing competitive advantage. While some have such advantage in agriculture, for others, it lies in tourism. Some may build theirs on industrialisation based on the abundance of raw materials for certain industries, while others may consider solid minerals. One thing however has become absolutely necessary. States must begin to develop their respective economic advantages, based on their unique resources. This will gradually stimulate the economy and create wealth. It will reduce our currently suffocating poverty levels as well as urban migration. It is not just a bus stop.
It is for me a beacon of hope. A bright ray, just as the bright colours of the terminal indicate, that the days of people oriented development initiatives are here. It is a sign that we must no longer treat our people with disdain and disrespect, but must elevate and empower them. Because you can only judge the progress of a nation by the quality of life of the poor. And if a state is providing such facilities for regular commuters, I am happy that the days of making okada and keke (motorcycles and tricycles) our major means of mass transit, are numbered. Let other states take a cue. Every man on the street deserves to ride in safe, comfortable air conditioned buses. It is not a privilege. Good leadership is about elevating the status of your people because their well-being is the measure of your success or failure. Of course, it is not just a bus stop.
• Muyiwa Kayode is CEO at USP Brand Management and author, The Seven Dimensions of Branding. Brand Nation is a platform for promoting national development based on the universal principles of branding.
@Guardian
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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