AMVCA ‘26: Best Looks in Pictures

    Oluwabukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kiekie)

By Wahab Mariam

To celebrate the last day of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award 2026, here are 20 celebrities whose outfits stood out. 

Kiekie made a statement in a gold mermaid gown encrusted with beading and vertical fringe, finished with a wide-brimmed fascinator, epitomizing her commitment to glamour.

    Nana Akua (Nana Akua)

Nana Akua Akua showcased a unique gown made from crumpled brown paper-like material, resembling earth. The oversized off-shoulder sleeves and a skirt merging into rocks created a striking natural statement.

  Adeyemi Okanlawon

Deyemi exuded drama in a black Agbada-style coat with a crystal-encrusted upper body fading to grey-black below. He added black aviator sunglasses and a katana, creating a strikingly villainous look.

   Osariemen Martha Ighodaro (Osas Ighodaro)

Osas stunned in a silver-grey halterneck gown with a crystal-embellished bodice and a full ballgown skirt adorned with embossed rosettes. Matching silver gloves and dramatic earrings completed her luxurious look.

    Idia Aisien

Idia made a statement in a structured column dress made from watch faces, complemented by a dramatic black tulle overskirt. The look, set against a clockwork backdrop, symbolized a meditation on time.

   Opeyemi Ayanwale (Imisi)

Imisi BBNaija season 10 winner dazzled in a blush pink and silver-grey floor-length gown. The off-shoulder bodice featured intricate beadwork, while the textured skirt flowed dramatically. She accessorized with a diamond necklace, a silver bracelet, and a sleek top bun.

    Omowunmi Dada

Omowunmi wore a gold and bronze tiered gown with a nude illusion bodice adorned with gold floral appliqués. The layered pleated skirt transitioned into a sweeping train, complemented by loose, wet-look waves and a simple bracelet.

    Toyin Abraham Ajeyemi (Toyin Abraham)

Toyin Abraham stood out in a sculptural black ball gown, featuring a strapless silhouette and a voluminous skirt that revealed champagne-gold layers. Her sheer gold fringe collar and crystal embellishments added a fierce touch, complemented by a gilded branch accessory.

    Bisola Ayeola (Bisola Ayeola)

Bisola Ayeola opted for a copper-bronze mermaid gown made from crinkled metallic fabric. The off-shoulder design featured oversized puff sleeves and a black bead cluster at the waist, paired with gold drop earrings and a slicked-back updo.

    Stanley Ebuka Nzediegwu (Stan Nze)

Stan Nze wore a black agbada-style coat with intricate beaded details and topped it with a beaded cap featuring silver leopard motifs. He completed the look with statement rings and a circular branded hat.

    Kolapo "Kola" Omotoso (Kola – BBNaija)

Kola BBNaija season 10 contestant kept it classic in a tailored black tuxedo with a black bow tie and white dress shirt. A crystal floral brooch and crisp white pocket square added charm, while dark sunglasses gave it an air of cool sophistication.

    Mimie

Mimie embraced high drama in a full black feather gown with a mermaid cut. The all-feather design, paired with a feathered headpiece, created a striking woodland creature aesthetic against a backdrop of dried leaves.

    Anita Singh (Nini)

Nini BBNaija season 6 showcased a strapless cobalt blue velvet mermaid gown embellished with ostrich feathers and accented by pink feathers. She wore a matching glove and chandelier earrings, with her look set against a dramatic crimson backdrop.

    Erica Ngozi Nlewedim 

Erica dazzled in a burgundy velvet off-shoulder gown with a structured bodice and a sheer tulle skirt featuring pom-pom embellishments and gold spokes, evoking a sunburst. A matching spiked headpiece complemented the look, while a bold green and white necklace added contrast.

   Doyinsola Anuoluwapo (Doyin)

Doyin appeared in a digitally enhanced image, donned in a gold scale-patterned mermaid gown with a deep V-neck and wing-like bust details. The hem transitioned into large golden feathers as her red hair billowed dramatically around her.

    Roseline Omokhoa Afije (Liquorose)

Liquorose wore a sheer nude gown accented with white swirl appliqués and a voluminous white satin skirt, styled to look ethereal against a misty backdrop. Her hair was elegantly braided in a tall updo.

    Kennie

Kennie sported a rich burgundy velvet suit with structured shoulders and a champagne-gold lapel, complemented by a black velvet bow tie and gold cufflinks for a polished retro vibe.

    Bright Morgan

Bright Morgan wore a striking black double-breasted suit embellished with crystal scrollwork, paired with a white dress shirt and statement rings, creating a regal appearance.

   Eniola Ajao

Eniola Ajao's ambitious gown, crafted from gold-painted balloons, featured dramatic balloon sleeves and a body-con silhouette that fanned out into a balloon train, art and fashion combined.

    Simi Drey

Simi Drey closed the gallery in a shimmering column gown of silver mirror tiles, adorned with beaded leaf appliques, complemented by a crystal-encrusted headpiece and a moody backdrop for a commanding presence.

cc: Instagram

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AMVCA ‘26: My Father's Shadow Wins Multiple Awards

By: Mercy Musa

The four-day Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards 2026 has concluded its 12th edition, which took place on May 9th as the movie “My Father’s Shadow” emerged as the major winner. 

This production not only won the Best Movie award but also secured victories in the Best Director, Best Writing (Movie), and Best Sound/Sound Design categories.

Filmmakers, actors, directors, producers, and digital creators from across the continent gathered at Eko Hotel and Suites to celebrate excellence in African film and television.

The ceremony, which began at 7 p.m., recognized outstanding achievements in filmmaking, television production, digital storytelling, costume design, directing, acting, and indigenous language productions.

Below are the winners and nominees from each category:

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

Winner: Colours of Fire – Valerie Okeke  

Other nominees include:  

The Serpent’s Gift – Mary Chukuma  

The Real Housewives of Lagos (S3)– Deola Art Alade, Darey Art Alade  

Something About The Briggs – Yolanda Okereke  

To Kill a Monkey – Ikechukwu Urum, John Joseph Angel  

BEST MAKEUP

Winner: Warlord – Hakeem Onilogbo  

Other nominees include:  

Behind The Scenes – Mojisola Imam  

Lisabi (A Legend Is Born) – Adeola Thelma Bamgboye  

Ginger – Diablaq Artistry  

Abanisete – Adeola Thelma Bamgboye  

Suky – Ruth Harcourt  

Labake Olododo – Adeola Thelma Bamgboye  

BEST SOUND/SOUND DESIGN

Winner: My Father’s Shadow – Pius Fatoke, CJ Mirra  

Other nominees include:  

Gingerrr – Tolu Obanro  

Ben Made It – Vaughan Phillips  

The Party – Tolu Obanro  

Sebata (The Beast) – Vaughan Phillips  

The Herd – Fisayo Adefolaju  

BEST WRITING – TV SERIES**  

Winner: MTV Shuga Mashariki – Annette Shadeya, Natasha Likimani, Mkamzee Mwatela, Arnold Mwanjila, Makgano Mamabolo  

Other nominees include:  

The Wives – Donald Tombia, Timendu Aghahowa, Chiemeka Osuagwu  

Our Husband– Xavier Ighorodje  

Addis Fikir – Besufekade Mulu  

Baba OH – Temilola Balogun  

The Party – Stephen Okonkwo  

Gizat – Yednekachew Ayne  

BEST ART DIRECTION

Winner: Colours of Fire – Ajamolaya Bunmi  

Other nominees include:  

The Serpent’s Gift – Zainab Oladupupo  

The Herd– Omolade Abisola  

Aljana – Olatunji Afolayan, Gideon Stephen  

Suky– Victor Akpan  

Inimba – Thabiso Senne  

BEST WRITING – MOVIE

Winner: My Father’s Shadow – Wale Davies  

Other nominees include:  

The Herd – Lani Aisida  

Blackout – Ikenna Okpara  

Cards on the Table – Shirleen Wangari  

Gingerrr– Xavier Ighorodje  

Suky – Isaac Ayodeji  

3 Cold Dishes – Tomi Adesina  

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

Winner: To Kill A Monkey – Kabelo Thathe  

Other nominees include:  

My Father’s Shadow – Jermaine Edwards  

The Herd – Emmanuel Igbekele  

Finding Nina – Daanong Gyang  

The Serpent’s Gift – Emmanuel Igbekele  

Stitches – KC Obiajulu  

Gingerrr – Emmanuel Igbekele  

BEST DIGITAL CONTENT CREATOR

Winner: Leave To Live – Emmanuel Kanaga and Sophia Chisom  

Other nominees include:  

Luxury Koko – Maryam Apaokagi-Greene (Taaoma)  

The Marriage List – Destiny Ogie Osarewinda  

The Rate Race– Benedict Ehimare Oriaifo  

August Meeting Election – Steve Chuks  

Did I Just Hear Muah – Akwaman  

BEST INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE FILM (WEST AFRICA)

Winner: Lisabi (A Legend is Born)* – Lateef Adedimeji  

Other nominees include:  

The Serpent’s Gift – Winifred Mena-Ajakpovi  

Labake Olododo – Iyabo Ojo and team  

Aljana – Grace Yachat Yakubu  

Olorisha – Abiola Adeshina  

BEST INDIGENOUS M-NET ORIGINAL

Winner: Inimba – Siphosethu Tshapu, Thandi Ramathesele, and Yolanda Ndhlovu  

Other nominees include:  

Kukoyi – David Akande  

Undugu – Hatibu Madudu  

Out N’ About (Harar) – Bruk Yibrah  

Kamapala Creme – Joel Ndugwa  

The Chocolate Empire – Grace Kahaki and Phillippe Bresson  

Mgbuka – Eze Izu  

BEST UNSCRIPTED SERIES

Winner: Nigerian Idol (S10) – Sulaiman Kassim and Anneke De Ridder  

Other nominees include:  

The Real Housewives of Lagos (S3)– Deola Art Alade, Darey Art Alade  

Ultimate Girls Trip: Africa – Graeme Swanepoel  

Off Air – Gbemi and Toolz  

Out N’ About– Bruk Yibrah  

BEST SCRIPTED M-NET ORIGINAL

Winner: The Low Priest – Femi D. Ogunsanwo  

Other nominees include:  

Adam to Eve – Lizz Njagah and Alexandros Konstantaras  

Mother of the Brides – Rogba Arimoro and Bio Arimoro  

The Yard – James Kalu Omokwe  

Bobo – Maurice Muendo  

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Winner: Linda Ejiofor – The Herd  

Other nominees include:  

Oversabi Aunty – Olamide Kidbaby  

Gingerrr – Bisola Aiyeola  

The Covenant Series – Sola Sobowale  

Aljana– Nadia Dutch  

MTV Shuga Mashariki – Juliebrenda Nyambura  

Behind The Scenes – Funke Akindele  

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR

Winner: Bucci Franklin – To Kill a Monkey

Other nominees include:  

Simileoluwa Hassan – The Yard

Lateef Adedimeji – Gingerrr

Gabriel Afolayan – Colours of Fire

Femi Adebayo – King of Thieves 2 

Femi Branch – Owambe Thieves

Uzor Arukwe – Behind the Scenes 

BEST LEAD ACTRESS  

Winner: Linda Ejiofor – The Serpent’s Gift 

Other nominees include:  

Bimbo Akintola – To Kill A Monkey

Ifeoma Fafunwa – The Lost Days  

Ariyike Owolagba – So

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NCDC Issues Advisory on Hantavirus

By Jesupelumi Adesua & Ayomide Oguntade  

The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has released a Public Health Advisory on its X page (formerly Twitter) regarding Hantavirus (a group of viruses carried by rodents that can cause severe disease in humans) on Saturday 9th, May, 2026.

The NCDC reports that there are no confirmed cases of Hantavirus in Nigeria. However, they have outlined possible symptoms, including fever, fatigue, body aches, headaches, stomach symptoms, and difficulty breathing in severe cases. 

“Hantaviruses are viruses mainly carried by rodents. Humans can become infected through contact with infected rodents, their urine, droppings, saliva, or contaminated dust”.

This follows a press release from the World Health Organization (WHO) Director General, Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus, stating that the Hantavirus is not another COVID-19 and that the current public health risk from Hantavirus remains low. 

NCDC advises to keep environment clean, prevent rodent infestation, store food properly, and dispose of waste safely. Avoid contact with rodents and their droppings, and practice regular hand hygiene.

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Beyond the Screen: Culture Takes Centre Stage at AMVCA ‘26

(Ebunoluwa Dosumu via IG @ebbiekikz and Uzor Arukwe via IG @uzor.arukwe)

By Mercy Musa

The 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards 2026 Cultural Day, held on May 8, 2026, has become a notable platform for showcasing cultural pride, identity, and storytelling. During this event, culture was expressed not just through attire but was preserved and prominently displayed to a global audience.

             Jason Jae via IG @iam_jasonjae

Hosted at the Balmoral Convention Centre, the Cultural Day was one of the most visually captivating moments of the four-day AMVCA celebration, themed “Honouring Craft, Celebrating Culture.” 

       Imisioluwa Ayanwale via IG @imisiofficial

While the grand awards ceremony on the final day celebrates cinematic excellence by recognizing outstanding African films, Cultural Day reminds the audience that African creativity extends well beyond the screen, encompassing fashion, heritage, and craftsmanship. 

             Larry Hector via IG @larryhector_

Fashion has evolved into an integral part of African identity as a continent, and Africa has expertly embraced modern styles while maintaining its cultural and traditional attires. 

     Ibrahim Suleiman and Linda Ejiofor Suleiman via IG @ibrahimsuleimanofficail

The AMVCA Cultural Day showcased traditional African garments blended with contemporary fashion, with designers and stylists transforming indigenous looks into modern masterpieces, preserving their cultural essence.

                 Elozonam via IG @elozonam

In addition to clothing, the event displayed traditional accessories such as walking staffs, coral beads, cowry embellishments, hand fans, elephant tusks, and beaded headpieces. 

             Osas Ighodaro via IG @officialosas

The AMVCA Cultural Day clearly demonstrated that Africans continue to value their cultural roots through fashion. From the bold colors of the accessories to the intricate embroidery and patterns of African prints, and to impeccable hairstyles, the event was a vibrant celebration of our heritage.

        Pretty Mike via IG @prettymikeoflagos

        Thelma Lawson via IG @thereal_thelma

               Tobi Bakre via IG @tobibakre

         Okawa Shaznay via IG @okawashaznay

       Rachael Okonkwo via IG @rechaelokonkwo

             Kolapo Omotoso via IG @kolapo_o

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Plogging Nigeria partners Embassy of Sweden on Waste Management Directory

By Our Reporter

Plogging Nigeria has launched a new digital platform to transform Nigeria’s waste management sector and advance the country’s transition to a circular economy.

 

The platform, known as the Nigerian Waste Management Directory (NIWAD), was officially unveiled on March 30, 2026, in collaboration with the Embassy of Sweden in Nigeria. 

The launch event, held at the Swedish Embassy Residence, coincided with the International Day of Zero Waste and drew participation from diplomats, government officials, and industry stakeholders.

 

NIWAD is designed as a centralised digital hub that connects individuals and businesses with recycling, upcycling, and waste management service providers across Nigeria.

 

Speaking at the event, Sweden’s ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, praised Plogging Nigeria for spearheading what she described as a youth-driven, locally developed solution. 

She noted that the platform represents “an important milestone” that could enhance transparency, improve decision-making, and unlock economic opportunities within Nigeria’s circular economy.

 

Earlier, Plogging Nigeria’s Operations Director, Ramat Jadesola Owolabi, highlighted the organisation’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in addressing Nigeria’s waste challenges.

 

The organisation’s Executive Director, Mayokun Iyaomolere, formally unveiled the platform, demonstrating how it functions as a one-stop resource for accessing waste management services nationwide.

 

Industry experts at the event underscored the significance of the initiative. 

Representative of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Atiku Abubakar Abdullah, described NIWAD as a solution to long-standing data gaps in the sector. He noted that it could improve tracking and coordination among stakeholders.

 

Similarly, Cajetan Okeke of the Recyclers Association of Nigeria said the platform provides a practical framework for addressing climate change through improved waste management systems.

 

Daniel Oladoja from the Global Strategic Communications Council emphasised the importance of storytelling in strengthening public engagement and building resilience within the waste value chain.

 

Outlining plans to expand the initiative, Plogging Nigeria's Administrative Director, Ayodeji Omilabu, announced a roadmap for NIWAD 2.0, including a $50,000 funding target to scale data collection and deepen insights into Nigeria’s waste sector.

The initiative also received commendation from representatives of Finland and Norway, who said the platform provides greater clarity on recycling activities and opportunities in Nigeria.

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Tinubu launches military welfare fund, donates salaries as seed capital

By: Patience Ikuomola 

President Bola Tinubu has launched a military welfare fund, committing all his salaries since assuming office as seed capital for the initiative. He unveiled the fund on his 74th birthday, describing it as a support system for wounded soldiers and the families of fallen troops.

He directed the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, to open a dedicated account for the fund to ensure its proper administration.

The President explained that the scheme would provide direct financial assistance to military personnel injured in the line of duty, as well as widows, widowers and children of those who lost their lives while serving the country. 

He added that the fund was designed to complement existing insurance and welfare arrangements within the armed forces.

In a post on his official X account, Mr Tinubu called on state governors, members of the National Assembly, the private sector and other well-meaning Nigerians to contribute. 

He stressed that the initiative should not be viewed as charity, but as a shared national obligation to those safeguarding the country’s peace and security.

He also assured that details of the special account would be made public in due course, pledging transparency and accountability in the management of the fund.

Emphasising the sacrifices of the armed forces, the President declared: “This is not charity. It is duty. And we will fulfill it.”

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Aiyedatiwa begins ₦2.4bn gratuity payments to Ondo retirees

By: Patience Ikuomola 

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday commenced the disbursement of ₦2.4 billion in gratuities to retired public servants, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.

Speaking at the Cocoa Conference Centre, the governor described the payment as a crucial move to restore dignity to pensioners and address long-standing arrears. 

He acknowledged the hardship many retirees had faced due to delayed benefits, stressing that retirement should offer comfort and stability, not anxiety.

“This is more than an administrative exercise; it is a moral responsibility to those who served the state with dedication,” he said, adding that his government would not politicise workers’ welfare. 

“Doing the right thing will always take precedence over convenience.”

Mr Aiyedatiwa revealed that the ₦2.4 billion had been approved to clear gratuity arrears for retirees from 2018 and 2019, despite competing financial pressures. 

He assured beneficiaries that plans were underway to settle outstanding payments as quickly as possible. 

He also encouraged senior citizens to enrol in the state’s subsidised health insurance scheme.

The Permanent Secretary of the Pension Transitional Department, Peter Akingbade, said 733 retirees would benefit from the exercise, including 391 from 2018 and 342 from 2019. 

He added that the government had earlier paid ₦1.01 billion in January 2026 to settle gratuities for retirees from 2015, 2016 and 2017 (Batch B).

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Adeleye Adebanjo, a 2018 retiree, expressed appreciation to the governor and prayed for his continued good health. 

Meanwhile, the state chairman of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Johnson Osunyemi, praised the governor’s efforts, describing him as a “saviour of pensioners” in the state. 

He also noted that the administration had donated an 18-seater bus to the union in January.

The event drew several top government officials, including Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji, who was represented by his deputy, Ololade Gbegudu; Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa; as well as members of the State Executive Council, permanent secretaries, political appointees and labour leaders.

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Tests, Exams Missed for Sports Won’t Hurt Students — Mayor'bless

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‎By Boluwatife Kehinde and Daniel Akinte

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‎Following his victory, Akanbi Oluwamayowa, popularly known as Mayor’bles, who was elected as the Sports Director of Adekunle Ajasin University for the 2025/2026 academic session under the Conservative Movement, shared his plans for his tenure and other key issues in an interview with ECHO Media.

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‎He secured 1,381 votes to defeat his opponent, Idowu Joshua, also known as Mastermind, who polled 1,327 votes.

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‎In his words, the 400-level student of the Sociology department, Mayor’bles, highlighted that athletes’ welfare will be a top priority, stressing the need to provide better support and improve their overall sporting experience in the university.

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‎He also addressed issues concerning female athletes, stating what they can expect under his leadership, among other things.

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The interview ultimately presents a clear picture of a tenure aimed at restructuring campus sports into a more supportive, accountable, and all-encompassing system.

‎What are the competitions lined up for the second semester? 

Well, we have the AAUA Freshers Cup, the AAUASU Game and the Unity Cup 2.0 coming up in the second semester.

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‎So, is the AAUASU Games a new competition?

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‎No, it is not new, but it hasn’t been held in the last few years. I want to bring it back.

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‎Is there any plan to continue the AAUA Sports Festival?

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‎I can’t guarantee that, but I can assure you that the 2.0 edition of the Unity Cup, which I started last semester, will hold.

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‎Is it just a football competition?

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‎The first edition was mainly football, but the second edition will cover major sports, if not all.

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‎What are the plans for female athletes on campus to give them more visibility?

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‎The idea is clear. Just like I said in my manifesto, I am not gender-biased. There are already plans in place for our female athletes during the Freshers Cup, AAUASU Games, and Unity Cup 2.0.

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‎As a Sports Director, what are the welfare plans for athletes representing the school?

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‎Welfare goes a long way. We plan to build a strong relationship with the Chief Head Coach and the Sports Unit. Also, we are seeking more sponsorship so athletes will not depend only on school funds.

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‎Is it true that athletes who miss tests because of competitions are not taken seriously by lecturers when they return? If yes, why? If not, what measures will be put in place?

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‎Any athlete who misses exams or tests because of competitions should reach out to the Sports Director. A complaint will be forwarded to Student Affairs so that proper action can be taken.

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‎What advice do you have for students who love sports but are afraid to participate because they don’t want to have a carryover?

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‎Academics should always come first. You must focus on your studies, because there is time for everything. There should be a proper balance between academics and sports.

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AAUA Students Lament Over Poor Organisation of SUG Election

By Similoluwa Ayibiowu and Olamide Iwala

Students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) have expressed dissatisfaction over the poor organisation of the 2026 Student Union Government (SUG) election. 

In an interview with Echo Media reporters, students who went out to vote described the process as disorganised and stressful.

A 400-level student of Economics department, Temiloluwa Opemipo, shared her experience at the election centre, noting that the exercise was disappointing.

According to her, the process lacked proper coordination, making it difficult for many students to vote smoothly.

Similarly, Obakpolor Adenike, a student of Allied Health Sciences, described the environment as chaotic.

“This place is too rowdy. It was so choked that I fainted. This is my third time of trying to go in. The election is very disorganised,” she said.

Catherina Oluketi, a 300-level student of the Biochemistry Department, also lamented the situation, “I have been here since morning and I have not been able to vote. The election was not properly planned; there is a lot of poor organisation,” she stated.

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