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On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu welcomed President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal at the Presidential Villa. During their brief meeting, Tinubu emphasized the need for a unified approach in West Africa to effectively tackle regional challenges.

Tinubu stressed the importance of collective action to overcome issues such as terrorism, banditry, human trafficking, and poverty. He highlighted that regional leaders must prioritize their people in governance, as the essence of democracy is lost if the people are not at the forefront.

The president reiterated the sanctity of democratic governance, values, and constitutional order, insisting that these principles must be upheld. He also underscored the importance of respecting critical institutions like the judiciary and adhering to the rule of law to sustain democracy.

“Senegal has demonstrated to the world the strength of constitutional democracy. It’s a pleasure to host you and address the hopes and aspirations of our youth. You exemplify the ideals we strive for,” President Tinubu remarked.

Tinubu reflected on the strong bond between Nigeria and Senegal, noting their long history of cooperation. He highlighted the shared commitment to democracy and the hard work required to sustain it for the benefit of the people.

“I am pleased to see you as a symbol of patience, perseverance, and dedication to democratic values,” Tinubu continued. “We must collaborate to ensure our people remain the focus of our democratic efforts. Your belief in Africa's sovereignty resonates with us all. However, achieving this requires adherence to the rule of law and preventing unconstitutional power seizures.”

As Chairman of ECOWAS, Tinubu invited President Faye to join in persuading other regional leaders to uphold democratic principles. “We will continue to work together, fostering economic growth, development, and governance. It’s our responsibility to assure our people and fulfill our commitments,” Tinubu concluded.

In a recent development, the Ogun State Government has taken decisive action against the proliferation of illegal structures surrounding school premises and marketplaces as part of its Safer School Initiative. This initiative aims to create a secure learning environment by eliminating criminal elements.

Farooq Akintunde, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, emphasized that the government had issued notices to the owners of approximately 200 shanties, illegal structures, and makeshift shops about six months prior, urging compliance. However, these warnings were disregarded.

The government's intervention unfolded as bulldozers descended upon areas such as Kuto, Idi-Aba, Oke Ijeun, and Panseke, dismantling the unauthorized constructions. Among the affected locations were St. John Primary School in Kuto, Nawairudeen Primary and Secondary School in Oje Ijeun, and Government Technical College in Idi-Aba.

Akintunde, leading the taskforce, also oversaw the removal of makeshift shops in the Panseke vicinity, targeting those impeding traffic flow.

Explaining the rationale behind the initiative, Akintunde emphasized the paramount importance of preserving an undistracted learning atmosphere for students. He highlighted the risk posed by these structures, often serving as hideouts for criminals, potentially facilitating criminal activities like kidnapping. This proactive measure aligns with the government's commitment to safeguarding its citizens, particularly vulnerable groups like children.

Furthermore, Akintunde issued a stern warning to school administrators involved in allocating unauthorized spaces to traders, emphasizing that such actions are illegal and subject to legal repercussions. He stressed that educators are entrusted with the task of imparting knowledge, not leasing government property, and cautioned against engaging in unauthorized transactions that could lead to legal entanglements.