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The Lekki Peninsula: How the Best Restaurants and Bars are Shaping Lagos Real Estate by Dennis Isong

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The Lekki peninsula stands out as a beacon of modernity and luxury. Over the past decade, Lekki has transformed from a quiet, residential area into a sought-after destination for both locals and expatriates. This transformation has been driven, in large part, by the emergence of world-class restaurants and bars that have put Lekki on the map as a culinary hotspot.

In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurants and bars that Lekki has to offer, telling you the unique flavors and experiences that make each establishment stand out.

We’ll also examine how this burgeoning food and beverage scene has had a profound impact on the real estate market in Lagos, particularly in the Lekki area. From increased property values to the development of mixed-use spaces, the relationship between Lekki’s culinary offerings and its real estate market is a fascinating example of how lifestyle amenities can shape urban development.

The Culinary Renaissance of Lekki

Fine Dining Establishments

Lekki’s transformation into a gastronomic paradise began with the arrival of several high-end restaurants that brought international cuisines and fine dining experiences to the area. One of the pioneers in this space is “Nok by Alara,” a restaurant that has redefined contemporary African cuisine. Located in the iconic Alara concept store, Nok offers a menu that showcases the diverse flavors of the continent, presented with modern flair and impeccable service.

Another standout in the fine dining category is “Oreka,” a restaurant that combines Mediterranean and Nigerian influences to create a unique fusion cuisine. With its elegant decor, panoramic views of the Lagos lagoon, and innovative menu, Oreka has quickly become a favorite among Lekki’s discerning diners.

For those seeking an authentic Italian experience, “Bungalow Restaurant” offers a taste of the Mediterranean right in the heart of Lekki. Known for its handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and extensive wine list, Bungalow has become a go-to spot for romantic dinners and business lunches alike.

Trendy Casual Eateries

While fine dining establishments have certainly put Lekki on the culinary map, it’s the trendy casual eateries that have truly captured the hearts of locals and visitors. “The Harvest” is a prime example of this trend, offering farm-to-table cuisine in a relaxed, Instagram-worthy setting. With its focus on locally sourced ingredients and innovative takes on Nigerian classics, The Harvest has become a hotspot for young professionals and food enthusiasts.

“Craft Gourmet by Lou Baker” is another casual dining success story in Lekki. This artisanal bakery and cafe has gained a loyal following for its freshly baked breads, gourmet sandwiches, and decadent desserts. The laid-back atmosphere and all-day dining options make it a popular choice for both quick bites and leisurely brunches.

For those craving international flavors, “Cilantro” brings a taste of West Asia and North Africa to Lekki. With its vibrant decor and menu featuring everything from Lebanese mezze to Moroccan tagines, Cilantro has become a go-to spot for groups looking to share a diverse array of dishes in a lively atmosphere.

Innovative Bars and Lounges

No discussion of Lekki’s culinary scene would be complete without mentioning the innovative bars and lounges that have sprung up in recent years. “Brass and Copper” leads the pack with its speakeasy-inspired decor and expertly crafted cocktails.

The bar’s mixologists are known for their creative concoctions that often incorporate local ingredients and spirits, offering a uniquely Nigerian twist on classic cocktails.

For those seeking a more laid-back vibe, “Crossroads” has become a favorite among Lekki residents. This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Lagos skyline, coupled with an extensive list of local and international beers, wines, and spirits. The bar’s regular live music nights have made it a cultural hub for the area’s creative community.

“The Blowfish” rounds out Lekki’s top-tier bar scene with its sophisticated ambiance and focus on premium spirits. Known for its extensive whiskey collection and cigar lounge, The Blowfish caters to a more mature crowd looking for a refined nightlife experience.

The Impact on Lagos Real Estate

Rising Property Values

The influx of high-quality restaurants and bars in Lekki has had a significant impact on the area’s real estate market. As these establishments have attracted more visitors and residents to the area, demand for both residential and commercial properties has skyrocketed. This increased demand has led to a substantial rise in property values across Lekki.

Real estate experts estimate that properties near popular dining and entertainment spots have seen value increases of up to 30% over the past five years. This trend is particularly evident in areas like Lekki Phase 1 and Admiralty Way, where many of the top restaurants and bars are concentrated.

The influx of high-quality restaurants and bars in Lekki has had a significant impact on the area’s real estate market

The rising property values have not only benefited existing property owners but have also attracted significant investment from both local and international real estate developers. These developers are eager to capitalize on Lekki’s growing reputation as a lifestyle destination, leading to the construction of new luxury apartments, condominiums, and mixed-use developments.

Development of Mixed-Use Spaces

One of the most notable trends in Lekki’s real estate market has been the rise of mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and entertainment spaces. These developments are designed to cater to the growing demand for integrated living experiences, where residents can work, dine, and socialize all within the same complex.

A prime example of this trend is the “Lekki Pearl Estate,” a sprawling development that includes luxury apartments, office spaces, a shopping mall, and a dedicated restaurant and bar district.

By incorporating high-end dining options and trendy bars into the development plan, the developers have created a self-contained community that appeals to young professionals and families alike.

Similarly, the “Landmark Village” development has capitalized on Lekki’s culinary scene by creating a waterfront promenade lined with restaurants and bars. This approach has not only increased the appeal of the residential and office spaces within the development but has also created a new destination for dining and entertainment in Lekki.

Attraction of International Investors

The thriving food and beverage scene in Lekki has not gone unnoticed by international investors. As the area’s reputation has grown, it has attracted attention from global hotel chains, restaurant groups, and real estate investment trusts (REITs) looking to enter the Nigerian market.

Several international hotel brands have announced plans to open properties in Lekki, drawn by the area’s growing reputation as a lifestyle destination. These hotels often feature multiple dining options and bars, further enhancing Lekki’s culinary landscape while also driving up property values in the surrounding areas.

Additionally, international restaurant chains and celebrity chefs have begun to express interest in opening outposts in Lekki. This influx of global brands is expected to further cement Lekki’s status as a culinary destination and continue to drive real estate development in the area.

Infrastructure Improvements

The success of Lekki’s restaurants and bars has also led to significant infrastructure improvements in the area. As more visitors flock to Lekki for its dining and entertainment options, there has been increased pressure on local authorities to improve roads, public transportation, and other essential services.

These infrastructure improvements have, in turn, made Lekki an even more attractive location for real estate development.

Better roads and transportation options have expanded the area’s catchment, allowing developers to build in previously less accessible locations while still benefiting from proximity to the established dining and entertainment hubs.

Creation of New Job Opportunities

The growth of the restaurant and bar scene in Lekki has also led to the creation of numerous job opportunities, both directly in the hospitality industry and indirectly in related sectors. This increase in employment has further driven demand for housing in the area, as workers seek to live closer to their places of work.

Real estate developers have responded to this trend by creating more affordable housing options alongside luxury developments. This diversification of the housing stock has helped to create a more balanced and sustainable real estate market in Lekki, catering to a wide range of income levels and lifestyles.

Challenges and Future Outlook

While the impact of Lekki’s culinary scene on the real estate market has been largely positive, it has not been without its challenges.

The rapid development and gentrification of the area have led to concerns about affordability and the displacement of long-time residents. Local authorities and developers are now grappling with how to balance the area’s growth with the need to maintain its character and inclusivity.

There are also concerns about market saturation, as the number of restaurants and bars in Lekki continues to grow. Some industry experts worry that the market may not be able to sustain the current rate of growth, which could lead to closures and potentially impact property values.

Despite these challenges, the outlook for Lekki’s culinary scene and its impact on the real estate market remains largely positive.

As Lagos continues to grow and attract both domestic and international investment, Lekki is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of the city’s development.

As Lekki continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how this relationship develops further. Will the area be able to maintain its balance of high-end establishments and local favorites?

How will developers and city planners address the challenges of rapid growth and gentrification? And what new culinary trends and real estate innovations will emerge in the coming years?

One thing is certain: Lekki’s transformation from a quiet suburban area to a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination has been driven in large part by its thriving food and beverage scene.

As long as the area continues to innovate and adapt, it is likely to remain at the heart of Lagos’s culinary and real estate landscape for years to come.

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Kogi Enforcing Ban on Trailer Parks from October 29 – Fanwo

The decision followed credible intelligence reports that some trailer parks in the state, particularly those located at Zariagi and Osara, have become hideouts for criminal elements.

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Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced that strict enforcement of the ban on trailer parks across the state will start effective from October 29, 2025.

Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, who disclosed this in Lokoja, said that the decision followed credible intelligence reports that some trailer parks in the state, particularly those located at Zariagi and Osara, have become hideouts for criminal elements.

He emphasised that the government cannot fold its arms while such facilities are used to compromise the security of lives and property in the state.“

The directive of His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, is clear. From October 29, 2025, the state will begin full enforcement of the ban on trailer parks.

Intelligence at our disposal shows that some of these parks, especially those at Zariagi and Osara, harbor criminals who threaten the peace and security of our people.

This is a proactive and preventive measure. We have decided to move ahead of the criminals instead of lamenting after lives might have been lost.

Government will not allow that to continue,” Fanwo said.

He revealed that security agencies across the state have been strictly briefed to enforce the order without compromise, stressing that violators will face the full weight of the law.

The Commissioner further noted that the enforcement is backed by law, as Governor Ododo has already signed into law a bill banning the movement of articulated trucks during the day.

Fanwo urged operators to comply before the enforcement date and called on residents to support the government’s action, stressing that protecting lives and securing communities remain the top priority of the present administration.

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Deported Nigerian Claims Ghanaian Officials Abandoned Him in Togo

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A Nigerian man deported from the United States to Ghana has alleged that he is now stranded in Togo after Ghanaian authorities secretly transferred him and five others across the border without informing Togolese officials.

According to on Wednesday, the man, who spoke anonymously, said he was initially held at a military camp in Ghana after being deported last month along with other West African nationals. He claims Ghanaian officials promised to relocate them to better accommodation but instead covertly transported them into neighbouring Togo via a back route.

“They did not take us through the main border; they took us through the back door. They paid the police there and dropped us in Togo,” he said.

The group, which includes three Nigerians, a Liberian, and others, is now sheltering in a hotel in Lomé, the Togolese capital. None of them have valid documentation, and they are relying on hotel staff to help receive financial aid from relatives abroad.

“We’re struggling to survive in Togo without any documentation,” the man told the BBC. “None of us has family here. We’re just stuck.”

He said life in the Ghanaian military camp was “deplorable,” citing poor water, lack of medical care, and harsh conditions. After complaints to authorities, the group was told they would be moved to a hotel. Instead, they were driven to the Togo border and allegedly coerced under false pretenses.

“When we arrived [at the border], we asked what we were doing there. They told us we needed to sign some paperwork to go to a hotel. We didn’t sign anything,” he said.

The man also shared the personal toll of his deportation. “I have a house in the US where my kids live. How am I supposed to pay the mortgage? My kids can’t see me. It’s just so stressful.”

He is reportedly a member of the Yoruba Self-Determination Movement, an organisation campaigning for an independent Yoruba nation in south-west Nigeria. He fears persecution if forced to return to Nigeria and claims he had court-ordered protection in the US, which should have prevented his deportation. The US government has not publicly addressed this claim.

The deportee was part of a larger group of West Africans — including citizens of Liberia, The Gambia, and Togo — who were flown from US detention facilities to Ghana last month. Human rights lawyers representing the group have filed legal action against both the US and Ghana, citing violations of international protection and due process.

Ghanaian officials, including Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, have defended their decision, saying Ghana accepted the deportees based on “pan-African empathy” and denied receiving any financial compensation.

However, the deal — announced by President John Mahama — has drawn criticism from opposition lawmakers, who are now calling for its suspension until it is properly reviewed and ratified by parliament. Despite the controversy, the government is reportedly preparing to receive an additional 40 deportees.

As the legal battle unfolds and diplomatic pressure mounts, the fate of the stranded deportees in Togo remains uncertain.

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Nigeria’s 65th Independence: Tinubu’s full speech

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NATIONAL BROADCAST BY HIS EXCELLENCY BOLA AHNED TINUBU, GCFR, PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA ON THE 65TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF NIGERIA, OCTOBER 1, 2025

Fellow Nigerians,

Today marks the 65th anniversary of our great nation’s Independence. As we reflect on the significance of this day and our journey of nationhood since October 1, 1960, when our founding fathers accepted the instruments of self-government from colonial rule, let us remember their sacrifice, devotion, and grand dream of a strong, prosperous, and united Nigeria that will lead Africa and be the beacon of light to the rest of the world.

Our founding heroes and heroines—Herbert Macaulay, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Margaret Ekpo, Anthony Enahoro, Ladoke Akintola, Michael Okpara, Aminu Kano, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, and other nationalists—believed it was Nigeria’s manifest destiny to lead the entire black race as the largest black nation on earth.

For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebearers, we have not strayed too far from them. In 65 years since our Independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development. Our economy has experienced significant growth since 1960.

Although, it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognise and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and healthcare than in 1960. At Independence, Nigeria had 120 secondary schools with a student population of about 130,000. Available data indicate that, as of year 2024, there were more than 23,000 secondary schools in our country. At Independence, we had only the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology as the two tertiary institutions in Nigeria. By the end of last year, there were 274 universities, 183 Polytechnics, and 236 Colleges of Education in Nigeria, comprising Federal, State, and private institutions. We have experienced a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life since Independence – in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, aviation and defence, among others.

Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times in its 65 years of nationhood, as is normal for every nation and its people. We fought a bitter and avoidable civil war, experienced military dictatorships, and lived through major political crises. In all these, we weathered every storm and overcame every challenge with courage, grit, and uncommon determination. While our system and ties that bind us are sometimes stretched by insidious forces opposed to our values and ways of life, we continue to strive to build a more perfect union where every Nigerian can find better accommodation and find purpose and fulfilment.
Fellow Compatriots, this is the third time I will address you on our independence anniversary since I assumed office as your President on May 29, 2023. In the last 28 months of my administration, like our founding fathers and leaders who came before me, I have committed myself irrevocably to the unfinished nation-building business.

Upon assuming office, our administration inherited a near-collapsed economy caused by decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment that had impaired real growth. As a new administration, we faced a simple choice: continue business as usual and watch our nation drift, or embark on a courageous, fundamental reform path. We chose the path of reform. We chose the path of tomorrow over the comfort of today. Less than three years later, the seeds of those difficult but necessary decisions are bearing fruit.

In resetting our country for sustainable growth, we ended the corrupt fuel subsidies and multiple foreign exchange rates that created massive incentives for a rentier economy, benefiting only a tiny minority. At the same time, the masses received little or nothing from our Commonwealth. Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channelling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure, such as roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes. These initiatives will generally improve Nigerians’ quality of life. As a result of the tough decisions we made, the Federal and State governments, including Local Governments, now have more resources to take care of the people at the lower level of the ladder, to address our development challenges.

Fellow Nigerians, we are racing against time. We must build the roads we need, repair the ones that have become decrepit, and construct the schools our children will attend and the hospitals that will care for our people. We have to plan for the generations that will come after us. We do not have enough electricity to power our industries and homes today, or the resources to repair our deteriorating roads, build seaports, railroads, and international airports comparable to the best in the world, because we failed to make the necessary investments decades ago. Our administration is setting things right.

I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. I salute your endurance, support, and understanding. I will continue to work for you and justify the confidence you reposed in me to steer the ship of our nation to a safe harbour.

Under our leadership, our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results. The second quarter 2025 Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23%—Nigeria’s fastest pace in four years—and outpaced the 3.4 per cent projected by the International Monetary Fund. Inflation declined to 20.12% in August 2025, the lowest level in three years. The administration is working diligently to boost agricultural production and ensure food security, reducing food costs.

In the last two years of our administration, we have achieved 12 remarkable economic milestones as a result of the implementation of our sound fiscal and monetary policies:

We have attained a record-breaking increase in non-oil revenue, achieving the 2025 target by August with over N20 trillion. In September 2025 alone, we raised N3.65 trillion, 411% higher than the amount raised in May 2023.

We have restored Fiscal Health: Our debt service-to-revenue ratio has been significantly reduced from 97% to below 50%. We have paid down the infamous “Ways and Means” advances that threatened our economic stability and triggered inflation. Following the removal of the corrupt petroleum subsidy, we have freed up trillions of Naira for targeted investment in the real economy and social programmes for the most vulnerable, as well as all tiers of government.

We have a stronger foreign Reserve position than three years ago. Our external reserves increased to $42.03 billion this September—the highest since 2019.

Our tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent. The ratio is expected to increase further when the new tax law takes effect in January. The tax law is not about increasing the burden on existing taxpayers but about expanding the base to build the Nigeria we deserve and providing tax relief to low-income earners.

We are now a Net Exporter: Nigeria has recorded a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home. Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3% in Q2 2025 to ₦7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years. Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173%. Non-oil exports, as a component of our export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent. This signals that we are diversifying our economy and foreign exchange sources outside oil and gas.

Oil production rebounded to 1.68 million barrels per day from barely one million in May 2023. The increase occurred due to improved security, new investments, and better stakeholder management in the Niger Delta. Furthermore, the country has made notable advancements by refining PMS domestically for the first time in four decades. It has also established itself as the continent’s leading exporter of aviation fuel.

The Naira has stabilised from the turbulence and volatility witnessed in 2023 and 2024. The gap between the official rate and the unofficial market has reduced substantially, following FX reforms and fresh capital and remittance inflows. The multiple exchange rates, which fostered corruption and arbitrage, are now part of history. Additionally, our currency rate against the dollar is no longer determined by fluctuations in crude oil prices.

Under the social investment programme to support poor households and vulnerable Nigerians, N330 billion has been disbursed to eight million households, many of whom have received either one or two out of the three tranches of the N25,000 each.

Coal mining recovered dramatically from a 22% decline in Q1 to 57.5% growth in Q2, becoming one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing sectors. The solid mineral sector is now pivotal in our economy, encouraging value-added production of minerals extracted from our soil.

The administration is expanding transport infrastructure across the country, covering rail, roads, airports, and seaports. Rail and water transport grew by over 40% and 27%, respectively. The 284-kilometre Kano-Kastina-Maradi Standard Gauge rail project and the Kaduna-Kano rail line are nearing completion. Work is progressing well on the legacy Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Highway. The Federal Executive Council recently approved $3 billion to complete the Eastern Rail Project.

The world is taking notice of our efforts. Sovereign credit rating agencies have upgraded their outlook for Nigeria, recognising our improved economic fundamentals. Our stock market is experiencing an unprecedented boom, rising from an all-share index of 55,000 points in May 2003 to 142,000 points as of September 26, 2025.

At its last MPC meeting, the Central Bank slashed interest rates for the first time in five years, expressing confidence in our country’s macroeconomic stability.

SECURITY:
We are working diligently to enhance national security, ensuring our economy experiences improved growth and performance. The officers and men of our armed forces and other security agencies are working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep us safe. They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes. We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram Terror in North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in South East and banditry and kidnapping. We must continue to celebrate their gallantry and salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation. Peace has returned to hundreds of our liberated communities in North-West and North-East, and thousands of our people have returned safely to their homes.

YOUTH:
I have a message for our young people. You are the future and the greatest assets of this blessed country. You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector. Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high. We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits. Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions. As of September 10, the total loan disbursed was N99.5 billion, while the upkeep allowance stood at N44.7 billion.

Credicorp, another initiative of our administration, has granted 153,000 Nigerians N30 billion affordable loans for vehicles, solar energy, home upgrades, digital devices, and more.

YouthCred, which I promised last June, is a reality, with tens of thousands of NYSC members now active beneficiaries of consumer credit for resettlement.

Under our Renewed Hope Agenda, we promised to build a Nigeria where every young person, regardless of background, has an equitable opportunity to access a better future—thus, the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme. The Bank of Industry is driving the programme, in collaboration with the African Development Bank, the French Development Agency, and the Islamic Development Bank. This initiative is at the cusp of implementation. Over the last two years, we have collaborated with our partners to launch the programme, supporting our young builders and dreamers in the technology and creative sectors.

A MESSAGE OF HOPE
Fellow Nigerians, I have always candidly acknowledged that these reforms have come with some temporary pains. The biting effects of inflation and the rising cost of living remain a significant concern to our government. However, the alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option. Our macro-economic progress has proven that our sacrifices have not been in vain. Together, we are laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand.

The accurate measure of our success will not be limited to economic statistics alone, but rather in the food on our families’ tables, the quality of education our children receive, the electricity in our homes, and the security in our communities. Let me assure you of our administration’s determination to ensure that the resources we have saved and the stability we have built are channelled into these critical areas. Today, the governors at the state level, and the local government autonomy are yielding more developments.

Therefore, on this 65th Anniversary of Our Independence, my message is hope and a call to action. The federal government will continue to do its part to fix the plumbing in our economy. Now, we must all turn on the taps of productivity, innovation, and enterprise, just like the Ministry of Interior has done with our travel passports, by quickening the processing. In this regard, I urge the sub-national entities to join us in nation-building. Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first. Let us pay our taxes.

Finally, let all hands be on deck. Let us believe, once more, in the boundless potential of our great nation.

With Almighty God on our side, I can assure you that the dawn of a new, prosperous, self-reliant Nigeria is here.

Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Amen.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
Presidential Villa,
Abuja.

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