Boss Picks

Closed! As the Third Mainland Bridge Comes Under Partial Lock Today

Published

6 years ago

July 24, 2020

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

With effect from today, the busiest highway in Nigeria, the Third Mainland Bridge will be partially shut to traffic to undergo rehabilitation. There have been reports of some worn-out joints of the bridge, which raised some safety concerns for the users of the bridge. The closure, without doubt, is going to be the harbinger of envisaged stress, and motorists will have a hard time in assessing the island from the mainland and vice versa. However, the Federal Government, in conjunction with the Lagos State government, has since the date of announcement of the partial closure, made plans to ease whatever stress or hardship motorists may likely face.

The 11.8km Bridge is the longest of three bridges connecting Lagos Island to the mainland. The bridge starts from Oworonshoki which is linked to the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and ends at the Adeniji Adele Interchange on Lagos Island. It was constructed in 1990 and was adjudged as the longest in Africa until 1996 when the October 6 Bridge in Cairo, Egypt was completed. The last time the bridge was closed to the public was in August, 2018 when it underwent a three day investigative maintenance check.

Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mr Olukayode Popoola, had assured the Lagos motorists and commuters that massive rehabilitation of alternative routes were progressing, and has concluded as the d-day arrived.

Popoola informed that the Federal Ministry of Works and Lagos State Government were tackling the rehabilitation works together simultaneously on different access paths, adding that all participants, including the roads maintenance interests groups, had swung into immediate action to ensure minimal traffic discomfort immediately after a stakeholders meeting on July 13.

He explained to NAN, the efforts made to ease traffic congestion:

“The Federal Ministry of Works has repaired Iddo-Oyingbo Road, we asked the contractor, Messrs Borini Porini, to go there and fill the pot holes, which they have done.

“We also cleared the drains there after our meeting with stakeholders on July 11th.”

He added that CCECC was also deployed to fix failed portions of the Independence Tunnel on Ikorodu Road on Thursday.

He stressed that Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) on their part had fixed bad portions and cleaned drains at Ijora Olopa just as the Lagos State Government agreed to fix bad portions around the Iganmu Bridge while its public works agency was also fixing some other roads.

“I was with the Special Adviser to Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday and they promised to address the failure around the Iganmu Bridge.

“And I am sure they have started because they are working with the Lagos State Public Works Corporation,” he said.

ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

The stakeholders in the project including the Federal and Lagos State governments identified accessible roads to guide motorists and reduce travel time during the partial closure of the Third Mainland Bridge for rehabilitation works scheduled to begin on July 24, 2020.

While jointly inspecting alternative routes, the state government approved the use of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes for Lagos State Bus Services Ltd to move commuters during the period.

Popoola, who affirmed the importance of the routes, stated that the outward Lagos Island lane of the bridge would be partially closed to traffic by midnight of July 24, 2020 for the commencement of rehabilitation works.

He said that the ministry would close the Oworonshoki-bound carriageway first for three months and thereafter move to the Island-bound to replicate the repairs.

On his parts, Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Aramide Adeyoye, said that priority would be given to people on the Mainland connecting the Island in the morning to use the bridge while those living on the Island would be required to use alternative routes, adding that commuters leaving Lagos Island to the Mainland would also have priority to use the bridge in the evening to reduce congestion.

“If you are living in Victoria Island or Ikoyi, you can use alternative routes such as Eko Bridge or go through Iddo-Carter Bridge. You can now take Herbert Macaulay.

“Other inner roads are also available. You can also go through Adekunle, Glover, and the side roads. Motorists can make use of Costain. We will make efforts to make the roads motorable during this six months,” she said.

She further hinted that the state Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, had given permission for construction works at night in spite of the curfew imposed by the Federal Government to flatten coronavirus curve in the country.

Also, the Commissioner for Transportation, Dr. Fredrick Oladeinde, said that apart from the alternative routes already mapped out, water transportation options were being made viable to give residents additional options.

MAN REACTS

Reacting to the closure, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), especially those with factories situated in industrial clusters around Apapa, Epe and Badagry Expressway have said alternative roads for commuters were in a state of partial closure, saying the timing for the closure was wrong.

In his statement, the Branch chairman, Frank Onyebu, appealed to the government to delay commencement of work on the Third Mainland Bridge until some of the alternative access routes had been completed and opened to traffic. He identified the close alternative routes to include Eko bridge and Apapa bridge.

“While we commend the government’s plan to repair the bridge, we believe that the timing is wrong.

“This bridge being a major link connecting the mainland to the island is one of the key life wires of the economy.

“Our concern arises from the fact that some of the alternative access routes are also in some form of partial closure. These include Eko Bridge by Costain roundabout, Apapa Bridge by Ijora, etc,” he said.

TRAFFIC WILL WORSEN

A cross section of Lagosians who spoke to the Boss, expressed fears that the already bad traffic situation in Lagos, will likely get worse, and will be difficult to tolerate for the six months duration of the closure.

Mr Adewale Sotunbi, who lives in Gbagada, but works in Lekki, said it is really going to be a tough call, but is compensated by the fact that traffic will be open from the mainland to the island in the morning, and also open from the island to the mainland in the evening.

“Of course it will never be the same though it looks like those of us on the mainland have an advantage. It will definitely be a tough call,” he said.

In his reaction, Madu Godswiil, a resident of Surulere was not as optismistic. He berated the government for what he called insensitivity. According to him, there is practically no road in Lagos which can really be said to be in good order.

“This closure means more traffic will now flow to Carter and Eko Bridges. However, part of the Eko Bridge, from the Alaka end of the Western Avenue (Funsho Williams Avenue) had been closed to traffic for some months now. Why is it difficult for this government to complete job on one section before closing another? Access to Eko Bridge is not very guaranteed; Carter Bridge has never a best option as a result of the deep gully around Iddo, and Ijora is a no go area,” he said

Meanwhile, Popoola has insisted that traffic management plans must be perfected before work of Third Mainland Bridge begins. The closure as at 11:59pm is a clear indication that the traffic plans may have been perfected. He stated the agency’s readiness for the work, saying that “everything being expected for the repairs of the bridge arrived the country that is why we want to start the repairs now.’’

While dousing the tension generated among commuters and motorists following, the Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said only about 25 per cent of the regular traffic on the bridge would be affected while 75 per cent of vehicles that normally ply the route will still have access to move on the bridge during the period of repair.

The Federal Government will be working with the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA) on how best traffic during this period.

CURFEW REMAINS IN FORCE

The ongoing repairs notwithstanding, the Federal Government has yet to relax the 10pm curfew instituted on June 2, 2020. According to the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, Bala Elkana, there had not been any communication to the effect that the curfew had been relaxed. As a result, Nigerians have tasked the government to either call off the closure or relax the curfew since there is the tendency that a lot of motorists will be on the road by 10pm because of the usual Lagos traffic which will be made worse by the closure.

ADVISORY

The first phase of the partial closure will begin by midnight Friday, July 24, 2020 to October 24, 2020. The Adeniji inward Oworo lane will be totally closed. Oworonshoki to Lagos will be open.

Boss Picks

Emmanuel ‘Nuel’ Ojei: The Untold Story of the Unassuming Billionaire

Published

7 days ago

January 26, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The name Nuel Ojei rings a bell loud enough for even the deaf to hear. His Exploits were manifold, unprecedented and humongous. He was a man of extreme means, a philanthropist of the superlative degree, famous business man, Chief Executive Officer of Nuel Ojei Holdings Limited, and not forgetting his identity as a power broker of repute. Yes, until he death, he was one of the deciders of political inclinations and power shifts.

But on December 27, 2025, the curtain fell on his extraordinary humanitarian efforts, his life, his activities on the physical earth and his benevolence to his immediate, extended and adopted families across the world. He was 74 years when he breathe his last on that fateful day, five months short of his 75th birthday.

Fondly known as Nuel Ojei, the businessman passed away that Saturday night in his hometown, Issele-Uku, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, as confirmed by his son, Chuks Ojei, in a statement issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025, on behalf of the family.

He described the loss as a profound shock and an irreplaceable personal tragedy.

The statement read, “With a heavy heart, I confirm the passing of my beloved father. His death came as a profound shock to our family following a brief illness.

“Words cannot fully capture the depth of our pain at this moment, as we struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss of a man who was not only our father but our strength, teacher, and moral compass.

“My father was more than a businessman; he was a builder of lives and legacies. A distinguished Nigerian industrialist, entrepreneur, and business magnate, he served as the Founder, Executive Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Nuel Ojei Holdings Ltd.

“Through discipline, resilience, and uncommon wisdom, he built enterprises that created opportunities, inspired excellence, and contributed meaningfully to national development.

“To many, he was a mentor and leader of rare integrity. To us, he was a loving father whose counsel guided our steps and whose values shaped our lives. He led with humility, strength, and compassion, touching countless lives across generations.

“His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but his teachings and example will forever remain our guide. Though his passing signals the end of a remarkable chapter, his legacy lives on in the institutions he built, the people he mentored, and the values he upheld.

“He is survived by his children, family members, and a wide community of friends, associates, and admirers who will continue to honour his memory.

“On behalf of the Ojei family, I humbly ask for your prayers, love, and support during this time of deep grief. Funeral arrangements and further details will be communicated in due course. An icon has fallen. A father is gone. His legacy will live forever.”

The story of Nuel Ojei is that of accomplishment, fulfillment and a typical example of I came, I saw, I conquer. He was part of everything he met. He didn’t just mentor folks, he saw them through from.scratch to finish; in business, politics and other aspects of life. He was the dreamers light.

Perhaps Nuel Ojei would still have been alive today as contrary to popularly held view, he was not under the strain of any undisclosed illness, was hail and hearty prior to his traveling to Asaba, then to his hometown, from where he returned to his maker. This is if, according sources, he not insisted on traveling to his hometown to celebrate the Christmas with his wife and family, whom he missed so much, contrary to his German doctor’s instruction.

Sources told The Boss exclusively that Ojei, who left Nigeria for Spain on December 10, returned to Abuja on December 22, and insisted on traveling to Asaba to join his family even when the doctor told him it wasn’t proper considering that he was under serious stress and fatigue. But he insisted, saying he missed his wife, who she has not seen close to a month, and would wish to spend the Christmas with the family. It was during his holidays at his country home that he asked away.

Nuel was one business minded individual, who began his business craft very early in life, hitting limelight in his 20s, becoming a millionaire, and buying his first house at the age of 29. He was already a big boy when he founded Nuel Ojei Limited in 1989, nurtured it in the early stages of vehicle distributorship with Rutam Motors, sole agent for Mazda, and partnership with Mercedes Benz, till it became a conglomerate.

In 1999, as Nuel Holdings was expanded, as he was diverting into many other enterprises, he bought the magnificent edifice at Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, towards the airport, which was a furniture company. Honestly, the billionaire has a penchant for airport axis as Nuel Ojei Holdings head office in Abuja, sits glistening in the uphill sun, facing the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. Report has it that he bought the Ikeja property at a whooping cost of N1.2 billion in 1999 from the Labanese. With about four very gigantic warehouses therein, his furniture business kickstarted, and continued to make waves. Nuel is blessed with the Midas touch, and so every of his businesses has received the growth syndrome.

A cross section of individuals, who spoke to The Boss, confirmed in no few words of how lavishly benevolent the entrepreneur par excellence was.

“His giving was not limited. He gave to all and sundry; whether you already have or not,” a beneficiary confided in The Boss.

Those who know Ojei in his lifetime believe he was richer than any rich man in Nigeria today. “What Nigerian billionaires have is not money compared to Ojei’s solvency. He was very rich, and spends it without a care for the good of humanity,” a source told The Boss.

Among the many properties he has scattered across the world include houses in various capitals in Nigeria vis a vis Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and more. He also has houses in France, from where his two private jets operate, Germany and other parts of the world. In addition, he boasts of the most expensively and expansively constructed edifice in the world, situated in his Isele Uku, Asaba, Delta State locality.

The sprawling edifice, which took about six years to construct, is a the palace of some sort, fit only for royalty. It is situated on a 35-dunam (roughly 10-acre) plot near the village of Issele-Uku in the Delta state, and covers an area of 12,000 square meters. A brief description of the masion has it that it is divided between a basement, an entrance floor and a residential floor, and among a large number of buildings, including a servants’ house and an entry pavilion used by the security guards.

In addition to all other qualities the gigantic house can boast of are cinema hall, discotheque, hair salon, bowling alley and separate 350-square-meter suites for the couple (Ojei and wife), as well as a selection of guest suites. It also has its own water-purification system and electrical generator.

In his garages are states of the art vehicles including Rolls Royce, Hummer jeeps, Mercedes Benz of various luxurious makes, Range Rovers, G-wagons…just name it. Sources say the number of automobiles in his Lagos home garage alone exceed 50. That’s how super wealthy Ojei was.

Born Emmanuel Isichei Ugochukwu Ojei on May 23, 1951 to military officer, who was during his time in the army superior to a onetime Nigeria’s Head of State, Nuel had both primary and secondary education in the locality of his birth, Lagos before relocating to his hometown attend the Issele Uku Technical College, Issele Uku, between 1970 and 1972. He obtained a National Diploma in Business Administration and Management in the bargain.

It was after the ND education that he concentrated on personal building, business-wise, and returned to Lagos, and took up a job as a Sales Executive at Rutam Motors Ltd, owned by the Ibru Family, known for their super wealth.

In 1976, he left the job after attaining the position of Sales Manager. He thereafter joined Kapital Assurance Ltd in 1977, and rose to become a Director.

With hands in so many pies, Ojei learnt the craft of mastering all endeavours. He was into supplies of military wares during the 1980s, banking, and was reputed to once owned a bank, insurance, construction and telecommunications.

His interest in the oil and gas industry was limitless as he is said to own three oil blocks, and had stakes in solid minerals, telecommunications, safety and security, as well as shipping and ship building. He was a master of all.

The story of Ojei is a case study, a reference point and a research material. He was one Nigeria, who said very little, but recorded and achieved so much. He mentored numerous persons, who are spreading wealth as well across the length and breadth of capacity development and transfer.

The NOH identity is a focused, determined and committed brand that Ojei had used to affect humanity.

As wealthy as he was, he married only one wife, and is blessed with five great children, who are living the dream in its clear 8-letters of positive.

It must be noted as well that Ojei’s must treasured belonging other than his family, is the honorary doctorate honours he received from the Delta State University for his business acumen and impact on humanity. To him, that award is from home, and when your home identifies with you, you have nothing to worry about.

Emmanuel Isichei Ugochukwu Ojei may have bowed out physically from the earth, but the legacies, he systematically created will live for generations and generations to come. He was not consistently in public view, but worked assidously behind the curtains to put laughter on the lips of so many individuals across the world.

May his industrious soul find rest in the bosom of the Lord…Amen!

Boss Picks

Hon Jumoke Okoya-Thomas Becomes Otun Iyalode of Lagos

Published

1 week ago

January 25, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

In recognition of her wholesome performances and contributions to governance in Lagos State, the Oba of Lagos, also known as Eleko of Eko, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, has conferred a deserved chieftaincy title on former lawmaker, APC leader and prominent female politician in Lagos State, Hon Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas.

The notable woman-leader is now the Otun Iyalode of Lagos; an important traditional stool in the cultural affairs of Lagos, and the ancient city couldn’t hold its joy as it rolled it the drums in celebration.

With an avalanche of dignitaries, nobles and political giants from across the socio-economic strata of Lagos, the Iga Idunganran residence of the paramount ruler of Lagos, became another excursion site, unleashing deep-rooted culture, excellent camaraderie and impressive display of ingredients that make Lagos, popularly known as Eko thick.

The gathering boasted of the likes of Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Sir Kesington Adebutu, Prince Samuel Adedoyin & wife, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House, Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Mudashiru Obasa, Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwolu & wife, Chairperson, Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chief Mrs Sena Anthony, Mr Ladi Adebutu, Mr Segun Adebutu, Firstlady of Ogun State, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, HRM Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal & Olori Mariam, HRM Oba Ibikunle Fafunwa Onikoyi, Alara of Ilara Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, Olugbon of Orile Igbon, Oba Francis Alao & Olori, Chief Mrs Bisi Abiola, Olori Vicky Hastrup, Senator Sade Bent, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babafemi Hamzat and Mr Tope Abere.

Others include Hon Kafilat Ogbara, Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya and Chief Durisimi Etti, who were also conferred with various chieftaincy honours.

As Hon Okoya-Thomas stepped out in grace, clad in all white, and adorned with precious ornaments; symbol of her royalty, the Oba was on hand to dish out the ‘sayings’, with the assistance of his white cap chiefs, that bestowed on her the powers and privileges of the Otun Iyalode.

Thereafter, a sumptuous reception was held at the Condo, Airforce Base, Victoria Island, where guests were treated to the best of entertainment ranging from good food, good music, good beverages and good networking under the very hilarious guidance of popular MC, Tee A. It was a night of solidarity for a woman, who has and is still giving her best to humanity and to society.

The atmosphere did not experience a dull moment as popular musician, Ayo Balogun serenaded the audience with soulful sounds, creating an environment, where the celebrant and her guests shuffled unhindered to the smooth ride of powerful renditions.

Earlier, and prior to the event, President Bola Tinubu had sent a heartwarming congratulatory message to the former lawmaker, who many believe is a highflyer and prominent Lagos politicians, wishing her well with regards to her double celebrations including her birthday on January 20, 2026, when she turned 69, and her receiving of the prestigious Otun Iyalode title, four days after.

In the statement signed by his Special Adviser, Information and Strategic, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu noted that “Jumoke Okoya-Thomas, the All Progressives Congress Women Leader in Lagos State, represented Lagos Island Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives for three consecutive terms, from 2003 to 2015.

“President Tinubu commends Okoya-Thomas for her contributions to the state and for her consistent efforts to increase women’s participation in politics and governance.

“The President also notes her chieftaincy title of Otun Iyalode of Lagos, describing it as appropriate and fitting, given her commitment to women’s empowerment and support for traditional institutions in Lagos.

“President Tinubu wishes Okoya-Thomas long life and good health, even as he prays for a successful chieftaincy ceremony.

THE JUMOKE THE WORLD KNOWS

Born of palatial privilege, Jumoke is the daughter of Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, the Asoju Oba of Lagos. She was born on January 20, 1957, and has a diploma in Senior Managers in Government from the University of Lagos and a Diploma in Secretarial Administration from Burleigh College.

On three occasions since 2003, Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas has represented the good people of Lagos Island Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Her legislative interests has been defined as primarily as dwelling on the Social Development of Women and Children. During her sojourn in the House, she was the Chairman of the Committee on Public Procurement and also member of committees on Banking & Currency, Diaspora, Niger Delta and Women in parliament. Before then, she was the chairman of the House Committee of Prisons.Among her achievements during her tenure, Okoya-Thomas sponsored a bill on the compulsory breast feeding of babies in 2013. The bill however, could not be actualised because the Representatives insisted that it is an issue best left out of the public domain as “no woman has to be forced to breast feed her child” though they admitted the unarguable health benefits of breastfeeding. She is also the women’s leader of The All Progressive Congress in Lagos State.

As the new Otun Iyalode, a high ranking female chieftaincy title in Yoruba, Okoya-Thomas is saddled with the responsibility of performing leadership roles as well as being the spokesperson for all women in the community. S

She is also expected to play crucial roles in mediation of disputes, especially those involving women. She will participate in legislative functions and decision-making processes concerning the town’s welfare. These are responsibilities the all-experience former lawmaker is endowed with.

We therefore wish Madam Olajumoke Okoya-Thomas a happy 69th birthday, and gracious tenure as she navigates through the tasks of Otun Iyalode(ship).

Congratulations ma!

Boss Picks

On a Mission to Rescue, Recover and Reset Nigeria – Soundbites from Dele Momodu’s Official Entry into ADC

Published

2 weeks ago

January 19, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The gathering was loud, impressive and purposeful as veteran journalists and Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu, began another political journey of rescue, restoration and resetting of Nigeria with a grand declaration ceremony in Benin City, Edo State.

In his speech, Momodu informed that his interest is purely to serve the interest of Nigerians, shunning any form of call to contest either the senatorial or governorship seat.

Noting that his formal aligning with the ADC is far from personal ambition, he stressed that he is on a mission to help end the drift towards a one-party state.

Momodu, who said it took him years to reconnect with his homestead, added that the declaration for ADC marked a deeply personal and political homecoming after decades of self-discovery and professional life outside his ancestral roots.

He said, “Officially set to declare for the African Democratic Congress. It took me a long time, over 30 years, before I could discover my ancestral home,” Momodu said.

“Let me thank one of my fathers who is present here today, Senator Isa Raymond. From the very first day he met me, he adopted me as a child. When I came home for the first time, he coordinated everything.”

Reflecting on his years abroad, Momodu spoke of the effort it took to establish himself economically in the United Kingdom, saying this had given him both stability and perspective.

“It took me over 50 years, you won’t believe it, of excruciating hard work and meticulous planning to plant roots for my modest income,” he said.

“Today, nobody can say I have no roots. But today, I am standing before you as I firmly reintegrate myself into the political process of my state.”

Momodu dismissed speculation about any immediate personal ambition for elective office, stressing that his political engagement is broader and more ideological.

“People have asked me, ‘What do you want? Do you want to be governor or senator?’ No, I just want to promote the best interests of our people.”

Describing his decision to formally take up ADC membership as a critical step, Momodu said: “It is hard to imagine the pride I feel at this moment as I undertake my self-led event in DC to pick up the membership card of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, the new opposition coalition in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation. This is only the first and most important leg of this political journey.”

He outlined what he described as his core political mission, warning against political domination by a single party.

“My mission in politics is to join hands of fellowship with citizens of like minds to rescue, recover, and reset Nigeria,” Momodu said. “Nigeria must be rescued from a one-party state and one parliament.”

In a lighter moment, he added: “I don’t think they manufacture people like Baba Eke in heaven.”

Momodu said the success of the political journey ahead would depend on the commitment of Nigerians who are dissatisfied with the current direction of the country.

“This journey will require the total commitment of the majority of Nigerians who refuse to be enslaved in their own country.

“I am eternally inspired by our leader and father, Zipzon Oyebu, for his judiciousness, resoluteness, and sacrifice for the well-being of our nation. Thank you, Baba.

“Thank you all for your love, because for people to leave their homes and offices to be here on a weekday is not a joke. I promise you, I do not think it is a joke.”

A former presidential candidate, former presidential aspirant, teacher, inspirational speaker, actor, media guru and entrepreneur, Dele Momodu is a complete package of astuteness, enigma and ready-to-deliver personality, who has contributed immensely to the growth and development of his motherland.

Momodu is not new to political discipline and maneuver. Recall that the much traveled global citizen contested the presidency in 2011, where he represented the National Conscience Party (NCP), and was a presidential aspirant in 2022 under the umbrella of the PDP.

Momodu’s trajectory in the political terrain dated back to the Second Republic, when he functioned as Private Secretary to Chief Akin Omoboriowo, the then deputy governor of Ondo State. He was also prominent in politics during and after the much talked about June 12, 1993 era. His relevance and intellectual capacity in politics speak volumes, climaxing in the fact that his wealth of experience will be an added advantage to the ADC family.

Momodu’s entry into the ADC is expected to boost the coalition’s visibility towards creating more impact and positioning the party for the all-important duel with the APC come 2027.