Jide Salu

Today, I joined Governor @jidesanwoolu to swear in newly appointed Permanent Secretaries at Lagos House, Ikeja. These are the people who will help drive the day to day work of the government and I wish them well in their new roles.

LAUTECH Best Graduating Student Defends NELFUND Appreciation Amid Backlash The Overall Best Graduating Student of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, OLADEPO Caleb Olugbenga, has responded to the mixed reactions that followed his public appreciation of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, offering clarity on the role the scheme played in his academic journey. In a statement released after his convocation, Caleb acknowledged the flood of congratulatory messages, life-changing opportunities, and criticism that trailed his earlier remarks. While expressing gratitude, he noted that it was important to “set the record straight.” He recounted a childhood defined by hardship, having grown up in a rural community in Osun State within a modest family of five. Financial constraints meant attending public schools was not a choice but a necessity. Daily life, he explained, was marked by struggle, limited access to food, clothing, and basic amenities, including electricity for nearly a decade. Despite these realities, Caleb earned a scholarship and rose to academic distinction. Along the way, he benefited from acts of kindness, receiving his first smartphone from a coursemate’s father and occasional support from lecturers who provided clothing. At the centre of the controversy, however, is his acknowledgement of NELFUND, which he described as “instrumental” rather than incidental to his journey. For Caleb, recognising support is not political alignment, but a simple act of gratitude. The Backlash and the Mindset Divide What has followed his statement is a familiar pattern in Nigeria’s public space…. a divide not just of opinion, but of mindset. A section of online commentators, often shielded by anonymity, chose to diminish his achievement, not on the basis of merit, but because of his willingness to credit a government-backed initiative. In their framing, his academic excellence became secondary, almost invalidated, simply because he acknowledged a system that worked for him. This reaction reflects a deeper issue…. a tendency to dismiss success stories that do not align with entrenched scepticism. Rather than engage with the substance of his journey, the focus shifted to discrediting the messenger. Observers note that such responses are often driven by a mix of political bias, frustration, and a broader culture of distrust. Social media, while a space for expression, has also amplified voices that default to cynicism, sometimes at the expense of nuance and fairness. Yet, Caleb’s story presents a counterpoint…. one of resilience, discipline, and the effective use of available support systems. A Broader Conversation The @NELFUND scheme, once met with widespread doubt, is increasingly being cited in discussions around access to education and student financing. For many, Caleb’s testimony adds a human dimension to policy impact, illustrating how targeted interventions can shape outcomes when effectively implemented. More importantly, his journey speaks to a larger audience…. young Nigerians navigating similar constraints. It highlights the reality that while systemic challenges persist, individual agency, combined with support, can produce remarkable outcomes. For those open to possibility, stories like Caleb’s reinforce a belief that progress, though gradual, is achievable. For others, deeply rooted in scepticism, such examples may continue to be viewed through a critical lens. In the end, Caleb’s achievement stands on its own merit…. a product of perseverance against the odds. His acknowledgement of NELFUND does not diminish that success; if anything, it underscores the importance of structures that enable talent to thrive. As conversations continue, his story remains a reminder that perspective often shapes reality…. and that in the same environment, some will find pathways forward, while others may remain focused solely on the obstacles. @NGRPresident @PBATMediaCentre @aonanuga1956 @SundayDareSD @DOlusegun

The fruits of @NELFUND …. @NGRPresident @officialABAT @PBATMediaCentre @aonanuga1956 @SundayDareSD @BwalaDaniel @DOlusegun @AkintSawyerr @oseyemituyi @icpcnigeria @officialEFCC @NELFUND @nastogo

“I just returned from Abuja and the conversation remains the same — Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat is the next Governor of Lagos State,” — Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, during the consultation visit of Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State and 2027 APC governorship aspirant. Follow us to stay connected @LagosJunction

Today, I also met with GAC member, Senator Ganiyu Solomon as part of my ongoing consultations and we discussed the future of Lagos. I drew on his experience and perspective, reinforcing the need to stay focused on what truly matters to Lagos and the work ahead.

I paid a consultation visit to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Obasa, where we had a thoughtful discussion on the direction of our state. I took the time to share my priorities for Lagos State and I remain committed to doing the work that keeps our state on track.

I visited our party secretariat, where I met with the Chairman, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi and members of the State Working Committee. In our discussion, I shared my plans for Lagos and reaffirmed what we all know but must keep front of mind that Lagos remains central to Nigeria’s growth and future. The work ahead is clear and together we will keep Lagos moving forward.

Today’s consultations also included visits to Chief Muraina Akanbi Taiwo and Senator Idiat Oluranti Adebule. I’m grateful for their insights and commitment to the progress of Lagos as we focus on the path ahead.

@RayToluAyo What a brilliant story-till this moment, STREET CREDIBILITY gives me GOOSEBUMPS. It is one of the most complete songs that has ever been recorded, I dare to declare. With your story, I have found a new respect for the collaboration. I have met 2Baba a couple of times - HUMBLE🔥

After Gongo Aso went blasting everywhere, 9ice had started preparing his second album but left is the collaboration with 2Baba The beat, the chorus and 9ice verses were ready, left is 2face verse ID Cabasa already reached out to him and they agreed on a date for the recording That day came, 2Baba was expected in the morning but in the afternoon he is yet to be seen.. 9ice was already worried.... "Maybe if we had paid him, he would be here already?" Cabasa told him, "don't worry he will come" Evening time, no sign of 2face yet, 9ice, now feeling so devastated, "it's because I never blow enough though....." He said to Cabasa again, "let's arrange money for 2face. We understand he is big". 2Phat, remember him.... A rapper and Cabasa's close pal, re-echoed 9ice's words . . . . . "Idowu (Cabasa's name), I agree with 9ice, let's arrange money and send to 2face" Cabasa, almost getting angry, "I say NO, 2face will come, what's you people's problem. It's 2Baba we are talking about, he will come" Silence everywhere. Everyone went to do what they are doing... 10pm at night, the GOAT finally showed up! He said, "I have been at home since morning, I only intentionally didn't show up early. I am here now, let's record!" 9ice still in disbelief that 2face honoured his words mustered a sentence "Has my street cred so much increase that 2face is honouring me without any payment?" While Cabasa was preparing, out of nowhere, 9ice sang out of his heart "I am the most incredible, out of 9ja, straight from 9ja... Street Credibility...." 2face said, wait, repeat what you just sang again.... And 9ice repeated it... Cabasa, 'where is the beat?" 2Baba asked "This is not the song we are planning to do", Cabasa replied... "Give me a beat to this chorus first", 2face insisted.... Cabasa gave him and 2Baba right there...... As I come here before you Ah go talk am as I see am Ah no go use any sugar cover am Call me a Mallam I know you understand am... I no dey stress am No dey use gra gra do am After that verse from him,9ice sang the song he was singing from his mind It matched 2face verse.... Okay, can we develop this... It's looking dope already They did and eventually discarded the original song which they intended to collaborate on Till today, that song wasn't released but Street Credibility became one of the greatest song outta Nigeria and Africa Check my fans, walahi aya e aja!

Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State and 2027 All Progressives Congress governorship aspirant, continues his consultations ahead of the 2027 race with a visit to former Deputy Governor of Lagos State and current Senator representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Oluranti Adebule. Follow us to stay connected @LagosJunction #lagosjunction

I was in Epe for the commissioning of the Odo-Noforija Kingdom Central Mosque. The new mosque is a great addition to the community but more importantly, it represents the shared values and dedication of the people here. Many thanks to the people of Odo-Noforija for the warm welcome. I was glad to be there sharing in the moment.

Today, consultations continued with GAC leaders including Chief Oluwamuyiwa Sosanya, Senator Adeseye Ogunlewe, Asiwaju Chief Reuben Olorunfunmi Basorun, and Prince Biodun Ogunleye. Building on earlier engagements, our discussions remained honest and forward looking, focused on the future of Lagos

Yesterday Thursday, 16th April, the iconic Woman Leader Emeritus and Otun Iyalode of Lagos hosted the Deputy Governor of Lagos State at her residence. The meeting was attended by members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) and myself, in my capacity as member representing Lagos Island Constituency 1. Otun Iyalode offered royal blessings, strategic counsel, and a call for inclusive governance prioritising women and youth. The Deputy Governor expressed respect for her legacy and assured continued collaboration with traditional institutions and advisory bodies. I reaffirmed Lagos Island’s support for the APC administration and pledged close collaboration with the Deputy Governor and GAC. In a light-hearted moment, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro pointed out my ancestral link to the Obanikoro family through my maternal grandfather(Chief David Ajasa Ogunlana). The Deputy Governor’s surprised reaction ("Bawo, How?") was priceless. Alhaji Bode Oyedele and Hon. Rasaq Ajala joked that I never married outside Lagos Island, while the Otun Iyalode smiled and said: "That’s how Isale Eko people do — we love to marry one another." A beautiful reflection of my deep Lagos heritage. (Who knows… if I remarry, I might break tradition with a Northern man.) The meeting underscored the vital role of women leaders and elders in shaping Lagos State’s future.

I visited the Apase of Epe Land and Member of the GAC, Alhaji Shakiru Akanni Seriki. He offered useful perspective grounded in his deep roots in the community and years of service. These continued engagements are vital for listening and staying connected to the people we serve.

Today, I met with former Governor and Minister, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola and Hon. Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas, former Lagos State APC Women Leader. These engagements continue to shape the work ahead as we stay focused on delivering for the people.

I represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the General Assembly of Indigenous Associations in Lagos State, hosted by the IBILE Eko Summit Foundation at MUSON Centre, Onikan. We had a discussion on urbanisation and the challenges that come with a growing city like Lagos. It was a good opportunity to listen and share ideas on how we can build a more inclusive and sustainable Lagos together.

@drobafemihamzat Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat (KOH) doing the needful.

Today, I began consultations with respected members of the Governance Advisory Council. We had honest, thoughtful conversations about the future of Lagos and the kind of leadership it requires. I value the experience and guidance shared. This is about listening, learning and working with others to build a stronger Lagos.

I joined others at the South West Zonal Unity Walk in support of the transformational leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Onikan Stadium. It was good to see people come together in unity and shared purpose, showing the strength we have when we stand together.