The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Rivers unveils measures to boost ease of doing business, restore investor confidence

    Rivers unveils measures to boost ease of doing business, restore investor confidence

    The Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency (RSIPA) has introduced new measures aimed at enhancing the ease of doing business (EoDB) in the state, in a bid to restore the confidence of the business community.

    Speaking at the breakout session of RSIPA during the ongoing 18th Port Harcourt International Trade Fair at the Obi Wali International Cultural Centre, Director-General Chamberlain Peterside highlighted the agency’s plans to reposition the state as a prime investment destination.

    Mayor of Housing, My-ACE China, expressed support for RSIPA’s initiatives but emphasized the need to first safeguard existing businesses in the state before promoting new investments.

    RSIPA, alongside top investors and business regulators at both local and national levels, called for coordinated strategies to address what they described as “Perception Risks” that have historically painted the state as a challenging environment for business.

    Read Also: Fuba ra pledges Rivers’ support for late Bayelsa dep gov Ewhrujakpor’s burial

    Dr. Peterside acknowledged past challenges where regulatory hurdles had made investment difficult but stressed that the agency is now focused on actionable solutions and tangible results, in line with its board’s mission. He concluded by declaring that Rivers State is “back to business.”

    “We are not naïve to believe that either by some form of magic we can suddenly turn the fortunes of the State and attract all the investments we desire. 

    “Our task is no mean feat. We are dealing with the perception risk that over several years branded the state as unsafe. We are also faced with the challenges of dealing with the lack of cohesion amongst MDAs, policy inconsistencies, multiple taxation, incessant harassment by miscreants, red tape and delays in obtaining operating permits, high cost of operations and opaque public sector.” he stated.

    Peterside said the agency was not there to dwell on challenges but to focus on action, solutions, and results. He said it is about listening to the investors in the field and ensuring that MDAs were carried along, hence the imperative for the setting up of our One-Stop-Center (OSC).”

    He called it the practical game-changer never experienced before in the annals of Rivers State.

    Speaking on how the plans of the investment promotion agency can materialize, the Mayor of Housing who was presented at the event as a star investor and keen promoter of Rivers State reputation, advised that an enabling law should replace the Executive Order that established the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency. This, he said, is to insulate the Agency from political instability and remove fear in the minds of investors about its sustainability. 

    The Mayor of Housing ( A real Estate Investor) cautioned the protection precedes promotion, thus, businesses in the state desire protection before anything else. 

    He said Local Direct Investment (LDIs) is what attracts and promotes Foreign Direct Investment (FDIs), citing an African proverb that says; ‘It is the rat at home that reveals to the one in the bush that there is fish in the kitchen’.

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    ‎China said he discovered opportunities in Port Harcourt when he arrived there city and found it was locked out by information. 

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    ‎The CEO of the Housing and Construction Mayor Limited, owners of the Alesa Highlands Sustainable Green Smart City, said that Port Harcourt is like a business empire under lock and key because it is not protecting it’s own and also not promoting it’s own enough for investors to come in.

    ‎

    ‎In the area of land documentation and inventory, China urged Rivers State Government to borrow a leave from Abuja and adopt the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in dealing with land and property registration and documentation for ease of doing business by elimination of land fraud. 

    ‎He said Lagos understood the power of business information. “This creates the impression that if you are not doing it in Lagos, you are not doing it in Africa.”

  • Fubara pledges Rivers’ support for late Bayelsa dep gov Ewhrujakpor’s burial

    Fubara pledges Rivers’ support for late Bayelsa dep gov Ewhrujakpor’s burial

    …pays condolence visit

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Tuesday said his state would support the burial of the late Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewrhujapor.

    The governor spoke on Sunday when he led a high-powered delegation of state leaders to commiserate with the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri over the death of his deputy.

    Fubara said the visit was necessary to underscore the deep historical, cultural and political bonds between Rivers and Bayelsa states, adding that the loss was not only Bayelsa’s but also that of the Rivers.

    The Rivers governor pledged the commitment of the Rivers State Government to support the Bayelsa State Government and the family of the late deputy governor in the burial.

    Read Also: Benin monarch prays against evil forces at Emobo rite

    “Wherever you want us to come in, I want to assure you that we will come in to support. We know that there is no human condolence or kind of soothing word that can fill the void left, it is only God than can. We strongly believe that He will do what only He can do. It is a sober moment and not for long speeches.

    So let me again reassure my brother that while you are going through the situation we will support you and we will not be far from you when you need us.

    He stressed that solidarity in moments of grief remained a defining strength of the relationship between both states.

    He said, “This is a formal visit to our sister State. Our story in Rivers cannot be complete without some aspects of Bayelsa. So in situations like this, where Bayelsa is mourning it is only proper for us to come and condole with Bayelsa State.”

    In his response, Governor Diri said the condolence visit was the first by any sitting governor since the death of his deputy, noting that it spoke volumes about the strong bond between Rivers and Bayelsa.

    He said the gesture reflected a relationship built on mutual respect, understanding and shared destiny.

    Diri said the absence of his deputy was deeply felt in government, describing Ewhrudjakpo as far more than a ceremonial figure.

    According to him, the late deputy governor was not “a spare tyre,” but “part of the four wheels” that drove the administration, making his loss profoundly painful.

    He added that the state still awaited the outcome of the autopsy, commending the cordial administrative relationship between himself and Fubara since the Rivers governor assumed office.

    He also praised the mature handling and peaceful resolution of the Soku oil wells controversy, describing Fubara as not only a people’s governor, but “an undying people’s governor.”

    Diri led Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the late Deputy Governor’s lodge to condole with his wife, who hails from Rivers State.

    At the lodge, the two governors offered words of comfort and assured her of their continued support during this difficult time.

  • AFCON 2025: Davido bets $25,000 on Nigeria, Tanzania

    AFCON 2025: Davido bets $25,000 on Nigeria, Tanzania

    Afrobeats singer Davido has demonstrated his unwavering support for the Super Eagles, staking $25,000 (approximately N36 million) on Nigeria’s opening Group C match against Tanzania at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.

    The singer shared a snapshot of his betting slip on his X page, predicting that both teams will score in the match, with a potential payout of $96,564 (about N140 million).

    Read Also: NAFDAC alerts Nigerians over recalled Indomie noodles linked to France

    Recall that Davido has previously wagered $10,000 on Nigeria’s World Cup playoff match against Gabon, which the team ultimately lost.

    The Super Eagles are to face Tanzanian on December 23 at the Complex Sportif de Fes in Morocco, marking Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title.

  • Seyi Tinubu’s chieftaincy installation deserving — Olajengbesi

    Seyi Tinubu’s chieftaincy installation deserving — Olajengbesi

    Abuja-based lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, has lauded the installation of Seyi Tinubu as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland, describing it as deserving. 

    In a statement on Sunday, December 21, Olajengbesi applauded the chieftaincy title conferred on President Bola Tinubu’s son by the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade on Sunday.

    Olajengbesi said Seyi’s achievement as the Chairman of out-of-home advertising company, Loatsad Promomedia, remained outstanding. 

    He also commended him for his active engagement in youth development and empowerment across the country. 

    Read Also: CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

    Olajengbesi identified Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Tinubu, as a bridge-builder and a role model for youths in entrepreneurship development. 

    Olajengbesi said, “The recognition and installation of Seyi Tinubu as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland is deserving and commendable. There’s no doubt that Seyi Tinubu has been an exceptional youth years before his dad became Nigeria’s president. 

    “Building his out-of-home advertising firm Loatsad Promomedia about 10 years ago is testament to his entrepreneurial candor, a shining example for Nigerian youths. 

    “Politically, Seyi Tinubu has stayed above the noise and focused on assisting his dad in the assignment of national development. Since Nigeria’s return to Fourth Republic, Seyi Tinubu is undoubtedly the most vibrant president’s son that Nigeria produced.

    “In philanthropy, Seyi Tinubu’s kind gestures are palpable in education, youth empowerment and agriculture. Of note, he has been diligently generous in the humanitarian space even before his father became Nigeria’s president.”

  • Letter to Malam El-Rufai

    Letter to Malam El-Rufai

    Dear Mallam Nasir El-Rufai,

    • By Sunday Wale Adeniran

    Season’s greetings to you, your excellency.

    Sir, as a former minister of the federal capital territory and governor of a multi religious and multi ethnic Kaduna state, you are a statesman.

    And therefore, you should act as one in all situations either favourable where you are in government or unfavourable where you are out of government.

    Mallam, I wonder if you read the post you shared on what the writer called marginalization of the northern Muslims by the present administration and hold responsible the administration for the underdevelopment, poverty and insecurity in the north.

    I hope you did not read it before sharing it but I can only hope, I don’t think that given your past utterances and actions and inactions, you did not read it.

    If wishes were horses…

    Mallam, the writer whose thought you shared cunningly picked some northern Muslims including yourself as people who this government is persecuting.

    The writer also mentioned the tussle over the seat of the Emir of Kano. Tinubu was never a governor in Kano state.

    Read Also: NAFDAC alerts Nigerians over recalled Indomie noodles linked to France

    He said that the first lady usually visit and make donation to certain part of the north but not the Muslim dominated areas in the zone but when Seyi Tinubu donated during Ramadan , he did not include it in his write up. He did not say that same northerners said that after making their people poor, he was giving them peanuts.

    As a little boy, I used to count on my fingers the number of leaders Nigeria has had back then, and in my little innocent mind, I used to wonder why it was largely a section of the country that was producing leaders (civilian and military).

    I would remember Tafawa Balewa as the first and only prime minister between 1957 to 1966. Yes, many people did not know that Balewa became Nigeria prime minister before independence. He was called Chief Minister.

    That was nine years.

    Between January and July, 1966, a southerner, Aguiyi Ironsi ruled as a military leader.

    That was six months.

    Yakubu Gowon, yes a Christian but a northerner ruled between 1966 and 1975.

    Another nine years.

    Then another northerner, a Muslim, Murtala Mohammed ruled between July 1975 and February 1976 when he was assassinated in a failed coup.

    He ruled for almost 7 months.

    Then a southern Christian, Olusegun Obasanjo took over and ruled for three years.

    Obasanjo handed over to a northern Muslim, Shehu Shagari.

    Shehu Shagari was in charge between 1979 and 1983.

    (Then as I grew up, the trend continued.)

    That was four years when a northern Muslim, Muhammadu Buhari overthrew his government.

    Between 1983 and 1985, Buhari was in charge.

    Ibrahim Babangida, a northern Muslim overthrew him in a palace coup and IBB was the military president between 1985 and 1993 when he reluctantly left office after annuling the first presidential election won by a southerner, Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Olanbiwoninu Abiola.

    So Babangida ruled for eight years.

    He handed over to Ernest Shonekan’s interim government as a mere placeholder for his friend, Sani Abacha.

    Shonekan’s government was from August to November 1993.

    That was three months when Abacha who was fh minister of defence made him resign and announced himself as the new Nigerian leader.

    Sani Abacha was another northern Muslim.

    He ruled between 1993 and 1998. So he ruled for five years.

    Abdusalami Abubakar, a northern Muslim succeeded him after he had died in office in July, 1998 and he was the leader until May 29, 1999.

    That was about ten months.

    Olusegun Obasanjo came this time as a civilian president and from 1999 and 2007, he was the leader.

    That was eight years.

    He was succeeded by Umaru Musa Yar’adua who was president from May 2007 and May 2010.

    That was three years.

    Goodluck Jonathan, a southern man, Christian ruled after him between May 2010 and May 2015.

    He served for five years.

    Muhammadu Buhari came back as a civilian president and he served for eight years from 2015 to 2023.

    On May 29, 2023, Bola Ahmed Tinubu became president. He is the first southern Muslim to lead the country after Abiola’s election was annuled.

    Tinubu has been in charge for two years seven months.

    Now, since we started self governance in 1957, northerners have ruled for 49 years and only one of them was a Christian (this became imperative as your writer did not only try to use ethnicity but religion as well).

    It therefore means that while northerners have ruled for 49 years, southerners have ruled for 19 years as follows: Aguiyi Ironsi – 6 months; Olusegun Obasanjo – 3 years as military leader and 8 years as civilian president; Ernest Shonekan – 3 months; Jonathan – 5 years and Tinubu 2 years and 7 months (still in office).

    Mallam, how do you then hold a two year old government responsible for the high level of poverty, illiteracy, economic retardation and insecurity in the north simply because the leader of that government is not another northern Muslim?

    Your writer even blamed Tinubu for infrastructural decay in the north as if the south is better.

    He cunningly quoted the Lagos -Calabar coastal highway but neglected the ongoing Sokoto-Badagry highway.

    He said that Tinubu has stopped trade between the north and Niger Republic while business thrive in the south but on March 14, 2024, the Tinubu government opened land and air borders with Niger Republic and lifted other sanctions against that country’s military junta.
    ( https://statehouse.gov.ng/nigeria-opens-land-and-air-borders-with-republic-of-niger-lift-other-sanctions/ )

    Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, it is also not true that this administration is witch hunting northern Muslims, the administration is after thieves no matter their religion and ethnicity.

    Emefiele has forfeited some of the properties he acquired through corruption and he is neither a northerner nor a Muslim. How you and your writer forgot that is a mystery.

    Fayose is not in custody but is Yahaya Bello in custody or is Kogi no longer a northern state and Yahaya Bello no longer a Muslim?

    Is Tambuwal still in custody?

    Or is he a southerner and a bishop too?

    Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, those appointed to offices you and the writer think that should be reserved for northern Muslims are Nigerians too.

    Let us therefore not cause unnecessary tension among the people because of politics and the struggle to get back to public office at whatever cost.

    God bless you.
    God bless the President.
    God bless the good people of Nigeria.
    God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Adeniran wrioes from Jabi, Abuja

  • NAFDAC alerts Nigerians over recalled Indomie noodles linked to France

    NAFDAC alerts Nigerians over recalled Indomie noodles linked to France

    The National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has warned Nigerians about a recall of Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles sold in France, following the discovery of undeclared milk and egg ingredients that could be dangerous for people with food allergies.

    NAFDAC said the alert does not concern Indomie noodles produced in Nigeria. The affected product is linked to France, where the recall was announced by Rappel Conso, France’s official food safety authority.

    According to NAFDAC, laboratory tests in France found that the Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles contained milk and eggs, but these ingredients were not written on the product label. This can be very risky for people who are allergic to milk or eggs, as it could cause serious allergic reactions.

    The recall affects all batches of the product with a best-before date of February 6, 2026.

    Although the recall notice did not clearly state the country where the noodles were manufactured, it was officially issued by the French food safety authorities, not Nigeria.

    Read Also: SEC sets January 2026 deadline for capital market operators’ registration renewal

    In a statement issued under Public Alert No. 041/2025, dated December 18, 2025, NAFDAC said, “The French Authority (Rappel Conso of France) issued a recall notice for Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles due to the presence of undeclared allergens, specifically milk and eggs, which may pose serious health risks to consumers with allergies or intolerances.”

    NAFDAC explained that even though Nigeria has banned the importation of noodles, there is still a small chance that the recalled product could enter the country illegally, through smuggling, online shopping, or travellers returning from abroad.

    “Although the official risk of these products entering Nigeria is low due to the Federal Government’s ban on noodle importation, there remains a need for heightened vigilance to prevent possible illicit entry or circulation of the implicated Indomie brand,” the statement reads. 

    “Because Indomie is a very popular and affordable food eaten in many homes, the agency said it is important to stay alert.”

    To prevent any danger, NAFDAC has ordered its zonal directors and state coordinators across Nigeria to step up monitoring and immediately seize the product if found anywhere in the country.

    “NAFDAC has commenced nationwide vigilance actions to guard against possible entry of the product into Nigeria,” the agency said.

    NAFDAC advised distributors, retailers, and consumers to be careful and ensure they are not selling or consuming the foreign-recalled Indomie Vegetable Flavour noodles.

    Anyone who comes across the product is advised to discard it immediately and not eat it.

    Members of the public are also encouraged to report any sighting or sale of the recalled noodles to the nearest NAFDAC office or through the agency’s toll-free number: 0800-162-3322.

    Any health problems or allergic reactions linked to the product should also be reported through NAFDAC offices or the agency’s online reporting platforms.

  • Ayodele urges national prayers, warns political elites

    Ayodele urges national prayers, warns political elites

    Founder of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has called on Nigerians to intensify prayers ahead of the New Year.

    Ayodele made the call on Tuesday during a press conference at The Achievers Cathedral, Oke-Afa, Lagos, where he unveiled his annual prophetic message titled “Divine Message for the Year 2025, 2026 and Beyond.”

    The cleric said his warnings were not meant to instil fear but to encourage spiritual reflection and proactive prayer, stressing that negative outcomes could be averted through divine intervention.

    “Whenever God reveals terrifying things about Nigeria, its economy, politics, leadership, and traditional institutions, I pray against them,” Ayodele said. “Prayer can reverse negative prophecies.”

    On the political landscape, Ayodele predicted intense political rivalry ahead of the 2027 general elections, driven more by performance and credibility than party loyalty. He warned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu could face resistance from some northern political elders and advised him to strengthen alliances in the South-east, North-central, and North-east.

    Read Also: Gbenga Hashim pays condolence visit to late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s family

    According to him, political divisions in the North could heighten tensions, including alleged attacks on campaign convoys and billboards.

    He further alleged that vote-buying and electoral manipulation would feature prominently, predicting that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission would expose several politicians, leading to resistance against the agency.

    The cleric cautioned former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to brace for blackmail and warned President Tinubu against betrayal by trusted allies and elder statesmen, adding that some top government officials could face indictment and possible removal.

    On security, Ayodele predicted a mix of peace and betrayal within Nigeria’s security architecture, urging prayers against aviation mishaps, including emergency landings and potential military aircraft incidents.

    Economically, he warned of instability in electricity supply, frequent grid collapses, and rising energy costs, adding that treasury bills could pose challenges for some banks. However, he projected gains in tourism, improvements in cybersecurity, and the possible creation of a new state.

    On global affairs, the INRI founder warned of rising geopolitical tensions, claiming that some African and Asian countries could pursue nuclear capabilities. He predicted strained relations between the United States and major technology firms, tensions between Iran and the European Union, and a standoff between NATO and Russia.

    He also cautioned that Nigeria’s relationship with France could threaten the country’s sovereignty if not carefully managed.

    Responding to questions from journalists, Ayodele dismissed claims of intimidation or external pressure, insisting that his mission was guided by obedience to divine instruction rather than popularity or profit.

    “I don’t make prophecies for money or fame. If you like it, take it. If you don’t, leave it,” he said.

    He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, prayerful, and upright, stressing that meaningful national transformation begins with spiritual renewal.

  • Benin monarch prays against evil forces at Emobo rite

    Benin monarch prays against evil forces at Emobo rite

    The Omo N’Oba N’ Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, Oba of Benin, has performed the Ugie Emobo rites, which entails release of spiritual power against evil forces in the kingdom.

    The Ugie Emobo is one of the most significant traditional ancient rites due to its spiritual connection during the Igue festival.

    It is celebrated to mark the defeat of Benin’s giant Prince Idubor, popularly known as Aruan, who lived at Udo, Ovia South West Local Government Area.

    Aruan had gone to war against his brother, Prince Osawe, and after his defeat, his brother became Oba Esigie.

    Read Also: Gbenga Hashim pays condolence visit to late Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s family

    The Ugie Emobo ceremony is characterised by majestic dance steps of the Oba to soul-stirring traditional songs and drum beats by the Ogbelaka group.

    It began with a royal procession led by Oba Ewuare, after a special salutation to his ancestors at ‘Ugha-Ozolua’ axis of the Oba’s Palace.

    Oba Ewuare offered prayers of thanksgiving to God and the ancestors for the passing year, surrounded

  • CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

    CDS splashes N10million on football tournament winners in Rivers

    The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has splashed N10m on winners of the maiden edition of the under 15 Boy’s football tournament hosted at the Sharks stadium, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    The Imo Military team, which emerged champions of the tournament after the Edo State team, received N5m, while the 1st runners-up earned N3m and the Akwa Ibom state team, which finished as second runners-up, received N2m.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony on Saturday, Oluyede said the tournament brought together teams from South-South states, Abia and Imo states, to foster unity, cooperation, and brotherhood among youths.

    The CDS, who was represented by Rear Admiral Gideon Kachim, noted that insecurity and the rising abuse of banned substances among young people remained a serious national challenge, stressing the need for early intervention through constructive engagement with sports.

    He said the competition aligned with his military strategic philosophy aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced and improved welfare and sound administration, while contributing to national development under a whole-of-government approach.

    Read Also: Tinubu is Nigeria’s strongest hope for stability, economic recovery – Faleke

    Oluyede said the weeklong tournament showcased not only football skills, but also discipline, resilience, respect, and teamwork, describing sports as a vital tool for character development among youths.

    He commended all participating teams, organisers, officials, coaches, and parents for their commitment, adding that beyond trophies, the players gained valuable life lessons and experiences that would shape their future

    He said, “Some of the challenges facing our nation today include insecurity and increased use of banned substances that affect the youth, which must not be ignored.

    “It is in the light of this, that I have committed myself to empowering the youths to meaningfully contribute to the development of our dear country Nigeria in line with my Military Strategic Philosophy for the Armed Forces of Nigeria which is to consolidate the capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through enhanced jointness for a reinforced operational posture, supported improved welfare efforts and sound administration aimed at ensuring the Armed Forces maintain its core military fundamentals of guaranteeing Nigeria’s sovereignty and prosperity under a whole of government approach”.

    Oluyede urged the participants to imbibe the lessons from the tournament, stressing that unity, discipline, and determination are essential to success.

    He commended the Rivers State Government for co-sponsoring and hosting the event, as well as all individuals and organisations that contributed to its success, including the participants.

    Oluyede reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to initiatives that empower youths, strengthen communities, and foster national development.

    He said, “On behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, I appreciate the Rivers State Government that co-sponsored and played host for the event, as well as others that contributed in one way or another.

    “I also congratulate every participant and assure you that we will continue to support initiatives that empower our youths, strengthen our communities, and build a Nigeria we can all be proud of.”

    Declaring the event closed, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports, Emmanuel Ndah, welcomed the young footballers, their coaches, parents, and supporters from across the country to the state.

    Fubara described the championship as a significant grassroots football initiative that underscored a collective commitment to grooming disciplined, talented, and focused Nigerian youths.

    According to the governor, the tournament was more than a sporting event, but a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the immense potential of young Nigerians.

    He said, “Today’s event represents much more than football. It is a celebration of unity, teamwork, and the potential of our young people.

    “At a time when our nation faces various social and security challenges, sports serve as a powerful non-kinetic tool to engage the youths positively, build character, and instill values that help shape responsible and patriotic citizens.

    “Competitions like this teach discipline, resilience, fair play, and respect, attributes that are essential for personal growth and national development.”

    He commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for recognising the importance of physical fitness, mental alertness, and emotional stability in nation-building, and for sustaining its role in youth development through sports, mentorship, and education.

    Fubara noted that the championship had provided a platform for young footballers to showcase their talents while learning essential life skills that would shape their future.

    The governor reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe, peaceful, and prosperous nation, stressing that efforts to tackle insecurity would continue to create an enabling environment for young Nigerians to grow, learn, and achieve their aspirations.

    He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his vision, dedication, and unwavering support for youth development and grassroots sports.

    He said, “As we draw this championship to a close today, let us strive to reflect the values of equality, unity, and excellence in our daily actions. We must continue to support our youth, as they form the bedrock of our current society and the leaders of tomorrow. In this context,

    “I wish to extend my sincere congratulations to all participants, the winners, the organizers, and everyone whose contributions have played a vital role in the success of this exceptional competition.”

  • OAU academic attains professorship at 39

    OAU academic attains professorship at 39

    An accomplished Computer Engineer, academic, and entrepreneur, Dr Segun Aina has been appointed Professor of Computer Engineering at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, becoming one of the youngest professors in his field in Nigeria at just 39.

     Aina’s elevation to the rank of Professor is a testament to his outstanding academic contributions, impactful research, and unwavering commitment to bridging theory and practice within Nigeria’s education and technology ecosystem.

    He currently serves in the Computer Engineering Department at OAU, where he also holds several departmental and faculty responsibilities.

    A distinguished scholar, Aina obtained his Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, United Kingdom, in 2008, followed by a Master of Science (MSc) in Internet Computing and Network Security from the highly ranked Loughborough University in 2009. He later earned his Doctorate (PhD) in Digital Signal Processing, also from Loughborough University.

    Read Also: Tinubu is Nigeria’s strongest hope for stability, economic recovery – Faleke

    Reacting to his appointment, Professor Segun Aina said, “This milestone is a humbling reminder that excellence, discipline, and purpose-driven work can accelerate impact. I see this professorship not as a destination, but as a renewed responsibility to contribute more meaningfully to academia, industry, and national development.”

    Beyond academia, he has built a reputation as a pragmatic academic and serial entrepreneur, committed to translating research into real-world solutions. In 2010, he co-founded Fluid Click Solutions Ltd, an IT services and engineering project Management Company. His business interests span EduTech, Agriculture, Hospitality, Capacity Building, and Technical & Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

    He noted that his lifelong commitment has been to ensure that academic knowledge does not exist in isolation, but actively solves real problems.

    Aina said he remains passionate about mentoring the next generation of engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will shape Africa’s future.

    A COREN-registered engineer, he is an active member of several professional bodies, including the Nigerian Computer Society (NCS), Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).

    He has served in key governance and advisory roles, including as a member of the pioneer Governing Council of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere, Ekiti, and as Chairman of the Advisory Board of Queensland Academy, Isolo, Lagos.