The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Osun 2026: APC is plotting parallel primary after Adeleke’s emergence – Accord Party alleges

    Osun 2026: APC is plotting parallel primary after Adeleke’s emergence – Accord Party alleges

    …we don’t know what is happening in other parties—APC 

    Osun Accord Alleges APC Plotting Parallel Primary After Adeleke’s Emergence

    The leadership of the Accord Party in Osun State has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is plotting to organise an illegal parallel primary following the emergence of Governor Ademola Adeleke as the party’s candidate for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    The Nation recalls that a faction of the Accord Party raised objections after Adeleke emerged as the party’s candidate, arguing that the national leadership led by Barrister Maxwell Ngbudem lacks legal backing.

    Reacting to the development, the Osun State Chairman of the Accord Party, Pastor Victor Akande, said in a statement that the alleged plan to conduct a parallel primary was aimed at sowing “seeds of disunity, confusion and chaos in the state in the name of our party.”

    Akande described the alleged move as another ploy by the APC, which he said is grappling with internal disarray in the face of what he described as the growing acceptance, popularity and goodwill enjoyed by Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, popularly known as Imole, among the people of Osun State.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Another Accord Party guber candidate emerges in Osun 2026 race after Adeleke

    According to him, the governor’s declaration for, and affiliation with, the Accord Party has further heightened public support for him across the state.

    He maintained that the APC’s alleged actions stem from its inability to match the political momentum, support and followership commanded by Governor Adeleke, forcing the opposition to resort to what he described as clandestine tactics.

    “APC is sponsoring one of their own card-carrying members, to pose as an aspirant of the ACCORD in a bid to create a crisis in our own party and the state at large.

    “We are a law-abiding, democratic, and peace-loving political party. This is to state that only the processes that are recognised by the appropriate national leadership of the party are valid. As such, any primary or aspirant who is outside of this is invalid, null, and void.

    “We urge the security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), among other relevant authorities, to be aware of this emerging plot aimed at disrupting public peace. Osun State has moved on.”

    Reacting to the development, APC through its Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi said “We held our primary yesterday and we successfully picked our candidate, We are not aware of any other political party primary.”

  • BREAKING: Another Accord Party guber candidate emerges in Osun 2026 race after Adeleke

    BREAKING: Another Accord Party guber candidate emerges in Osun 2026 race after Adeleke

    A faction of the Accord Party has produced Clement Bamigbola as its governorship candidate for the 2026 Osun State election, just four days after the emergence of Governor Ademola Adeleke as the party’s flagbearer.

    The Nation recalls that Adeleke had emerged on Wednesday as the party’s candidate, being the sole aspirant in the exercise. 

    However, a faction of the party rejected his emergence, insisting that Barrister Maxwell Ngbudem is not the legally recognised national chairman of the Accord Party.

    Read Also: Makinde urges Abiola Ajimobi varsity to leverage circular corridor for research, innovation

    In a fresh development on Sunday, about 300 delegates of the Accord Party from across Osun State elected Bamigbola as the factional candidate during a primary held at Regina Suite, Osogbo.

    Bamigbola emerged through a voice vote conducted by the delegates, after which the Chairman of the Primary Committee, Hon. Olufemi Ogundare, declared him the party’s candidate for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    Following his declaration, Ogundare and other party leaders formally presented the party’s flag to Bamigbola ahead of the 2026 contest.

    Details shortly…

  • Makinde urges Abiola Ajimobi varsity to leverage circular corridor for research, innovation

    Makinde urges Abiola Ajimobi varsity to leverage circular corridor for research, innovation

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has challenged the management of Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (Tech-U), Ibadan, to fully harness its strategic location within an emerging industrial corridor along the Ibadan end of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

    The governor said the institution’s location offers significant opportunities for strong industry–academia collaboration, especially with ongoing development along the Ibadan Circular Road, stressing the need for partnerships that will deliver research-based solutions for Oyo State and the country.

    Makinde gave the charge at the weekend while delivering his remarks as Visitor to the institution during its 5th convocation ceremony held at the University Library Hall.

    According to The Nation, a total of 183 students graduated at the ceremony, with 50 earning First Class Honours across various departments.

    Read Also: Troops repel ISWAP attack on Army base in Borno

    Represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, the governor described Tech-U, designed to “develop the brain and train the hands,” as uniquely positioned to drive skills development, technology transfer and innovation in the state.

    He said universities across the world are recognised as centres of knowledge, innovation and societal progress, adding that Tech-U has the capacity to lead problem-solving research, entrepreneurship and industrial development.

    Makinde noted that his administration has prioritised higher education in its development blueprint, citing steady funding of state-owned institutions, expansion of physical infrastructure and strengthening of academic programmes.

    He added that institutions such as Emmanuel Alayande University of Education and The Polytechnic, Ibadan, have benefited from major facility upgrades, alongside government support for research and innovation through grants and partnerships.

    The governor further said his administration has focused on technology, skills and workforce development by expanding digital literacy through ICT centres and teacher training programmes.

    He explained that technical and vocational institutions have been revitalised to provide middle-level manpower, while initiatives such as the Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Programme have created a pipeline of skilled graduates for agritech and agro-processing industries.

    Speaking on the specific support to Abiola Ajimobi Technical University (Tech-U), the governor said the government is sustaining the ALGON Scholarship Programme, allocating a primary health center to serve the university community, and enhancing campus security. 

    He added that the inclusion of Tech-U in the 2026 State Budget for subvention marks a new phase in the government’s support strategy, with plans for more targeted investments to strengthen the university and ensure a sustainable future.

    Congratulating the graduands, he urged them to “Be curious; courageous, law abiding, embrace challenges; pursue excellence relentlessly; and above all, use your knowledge and good character to impact the world positively. Oyo State and Nigeria look forward to your contributions as innovators, builders, creators, and leaders of tomorrow.”

    Speaking earlier, the Chancellor, Dr. Tunde Afolabi, expressed gratitude to the Visitor for his unwavering support to the university. He acknowledged the government’s reforms in education and strategic interventions in the university, including strengthened security, infrastructure development, and anticipated integration into the 2026 State Budget for subvention. 

    The Chancellor thanked the Governing Council, ALGON, host communities, and donors for their contributions to the university’s growth.

    He congratulated the 183 graduands, noting that they have earned degrees in their respective fields, as well as diplomas in French and entrepreneurship, equipping them to be versatile and globally prepared. He advised the graduands to remember that the world rewards competence, creativity, and character, and urged them to carry the university’s name with dignity, solve problems, and create value. 

    Also in his remarks, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan expressed the university’s readiness to partner with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja in driving industrialization, investment, and growth in Ibadanland. 

    He highlighted the Governing Council’s achievements since April 2025, including successful convocation ceremonies, accreditation of programs, and expansion of academic offerings. He commended the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and Management team for their leadership and commitment to excellence. 

    To the graduands, he advised them to stay focused, keep learning, and solve problems, noting that the world awaits their ideas, courage, and excellence. 

    Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Professor Adesola Ajayi advised the graduands to carry forward the spirit of excellence and integrity, remain adaptable, innovative, and courageous, and live a life of purpose and impact, reminding them that their education is a privilege that carries with it a responsibility to add value to their community, uplift others, and contribute meaningfully to the progress of the nation and the world. 

    He further encouraged them to stay connected to their alma mater, continue learning, and uphold the ideals that have shaped them.

    The Vice-Chancellor highlighted the challenges facing the university, including inadequate physical infrastructure, insufficient funding for research and innovation, shortage of senior academic staff, limited student hostels and social amenities, and the need for strengthened digital and technological infrastructure. 

    He appealed to the government for support, including dedicated capital project intervention, special funding for research infrastructure, support for student hostel development, provision of sustainable digital infrastructure, and a more stable funding framework to ensure institutional stability and long-term sustainability.

  • BABS congratulates Oyebamiji, Says APC flagbearer has capacity to govern Osun

    BABS congratulates Oyebamiji, Says APC flagbearer has capacity to govern Osun

    Bello Adegboyega Basheer (BABS), immediate past Managing Director of the Osun State Public Procurement Agency and a stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ifelodun, Boripe and Odo-Otin Federal Constituency, has congratulated Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji on his emergence as the APC candidate and flag bearer for the 2026 Osun State governorship election.

    In a congratulatory statement made available to newsmen on Sunday, BABS described Oyebamiji as a steady and trusted hand at a time when Osun State is facing critical fiscal challenges, stressing the need for disciplined, transparent and sustainable leadership.

    Read Also: Tinubu: New dawn of peace, prosperity coming in Benue

    He said Oyebamiji’s tenure as former Commissioner for Finance in Osun State remains a benchmark for prudent public finance management. 

    According to him, during a period characterised by revenue shortfalls and heavy inherited debts, Oyebamiji played a key role in stabilising the state’s finances, reorganising the treasury, blocking leakages and institutionalising accountability.

    BABS recalled that under the administration of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, Osun maintained fiscal discipline, avoided fresh borrowing and ensured the regular payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities, achievements he largely attributed to Oyebamiji’s technical competence and deep understanding of the state’s financial architecture.

    He also commended Oyebamiji’s performance at the national level as Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), noting that the agency recorded an unprecedented rise in internally generated revenue through strategic reforms and improved institutional efficiency.

    According to BABS, Osun’s current fiscal realities demand leaders with proven capacity rather than experimental governance, adding that Oyebamiji’s experience in managing the state’s finances under two administrations and successfully repositioning a federal agency uniquely qualifies him for higher responsibility.

    “Osun is at a defining moment, and history shows that in times of serious challenge, societies turn to tested and competent hands,” BABS said. “Bola Oyebamiji represents discipline over recklessness, competence over populism, and transparency over expediency.”

    He concluded by congratulating Oyebamiji on his emergence as the APC candidate for the 2026 governorship election, expressing confidence that his leadership qualities and financial expertise are critical assets for restoring stability, trust and sustainable development in Osun State.

  • Stakeholders call for priority attention, collective responsibility for shaping future of children, youths

    Stakeholders call for priority attention, collective responsibility for shaping future of children, youths

    Stakeholders, including parents, teachers, mentors, career coaches, peer educators, and youth advocates, among others, have said the only way to secure the future of the children is for every person to take it as a collective responsibility and give them priority attention, instead of seeing it as that of a particular set of individuals alone.

    They spoke in their separate remarks at a Youth Leadership summit tagged “Empowered for Change,’ organised by the Breach Repairers, a non-profit youth organisation. The event was held at the KAAF Auditorium, Human Nutrition and Dietetics Department, University of Ibadan.

    The stakeholders at the summit stressed that shaping the future of children should not be left to a few individuals or institutions alone.

    They agreed that communities, families, and government must work together to prioritise children’s welfare and development. Calls were also made for stronger government support for education, mentorship initiatives, and safe environments for young people to grow.

    Read Also: Troops repel ISWAP attack on Army base in Borno

    Delivering the keynote address, the chief operating officer at Meristem and co-founder of The Destiny Trust, Oluwakemi Ojenike, spoke on the importance of time in the lives of teenagers, emphasising that intentional use of time is critical to building discipline, character, values, and long-term vision.

    She encouraged young people to be deliberate about how they invest their time and relationship with God, noting that habits formed during the teenage years often shape future outcomes.

    Through engaging sessions, participants were encouraged to lead with integrity, responsibility, and service, while making informed personal and career decisions.

    The Breach Repairers Summit, a gathering of stakeholders dedicated to empowering young people, impacted over 300 young participants with the values, skills, and guidance required for ethical leadership and purposeful living, as well as discussed ways of empowering the next generation.

    Speaking, a tech and social impact professional, Yvonne Ogulu, said community and mentorship are crucial in helping young people find their way, saying, “It takes a village to raise a child, and many villages are not playing their part.”

    She emphasised the need for people to take responsibility for their families and communities, and for the government to support initiatives that promote children’s development.

    Also speaking, a speed mentor, Uche Azuh, shared personal experience of being inspired by mentors who helped her build a passion for something bigger than herself.

    She emphasised the importance of mentorship in helping children find their potential and pursue their dreams.

    “I was one of the kids seated just like this, and people like this coming to talk, and you just get inspiration from them. I know these kids would have been inspired, especially at a time when there are many bad examples across social media and society at large.”

    She urged the government to create an enabling environment that allows children to thrive, emphasizing the need to fund schools and education, and to make the environment safe for children to live in.

    “We need the government to stabilize the economy, to make sure that the children are protected,” Azuh added.

    The summit’s project lead, Rachel Ogundeji, said the faith-based organization organized the summit to raise a generation of young people passionate about growth, leadership, and making an impact, noting that the organization works with schools and communities to provide mentorship and support to young people.

    According to her, the summit is part of the organization’s efforts to empower young people and equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in life.

    The programme was designed to help teenagers gain clarity, build confidence, and understand that there are multiple pathways to success. A central focus of the summit was ethical leadership.

    She said, “We just want to give teenagers clarity, confidence to choose, and show them that there are options for them.”

    She explained that the organization is open to collaboration and partnership with the government and other stakeholders, highlighting the need for access to schools, funding, and resources to support their initiatives.

    “We want the government to come in and help us. We need access to these schools because we had to go through a long process to get approval,” she explained.

    The summit featured panel sessions moderated by Oluwabukola Shaba. The panelists were Ms Yvonne Ogwulu, Dr Teju Odufuwa, Mr Chuka Ononye, and Mr Adeniyi Adeyemi, who represented Mr Toba Isehunwa. The discussion focused on leadership, personal growth, career development, and navigating life choices as young people.

    During the session, Speakers shared their experiences and insights on how to build confidence, make informed decisions, and pursue one’s passion. It also provided a platform for young people to interact with mentors and role models who can guide and support them in their journey.

    Highpoint of the event was the presentation of N500,000 cash gifts to two teachers to inaugurate the maiden edition of the Olayinka Olusola Omigbodun Teacher’s Award. The award was instituted in honour of Professor Olayinka Olusola Omigbodun, the 12th and first female Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and Nigeria’s first female Professor of Psychiatry.

    The award recognises and appreciates outstanding teachers from both public and private schools across Oyo State who teach, mentor, and support students to excel academically and uphold strong values.

  • Terrorism: US, Nigeria close to strategic security agreement — Rep Moore

    Terrorism: US, Nigeria close to strategic security agreement — Rep Moore

    United States congressman Riley Moore  said last night that his country and Nigeria were close to reaching a “strategic security agreement”  on dealing with  terrorism in Nigeria.

    Moore , who was part of the US delegation that visited Nigeria recently for an on the spot assessment of the security challenge in the country, said there were signs of  progress.

    “We did have positive conversations with the Nigerian government, and I believe we are close to a strategic security framework to address both the ISIS and Boko Haram threat in the Northeast, as well as the genocide against Christians by the radical Fulani Muslims in the Middle Belt” he said on his verified X account @RepRileyMoore.

    He said his report to President Donald Trump  on the mission to Nigeria would outline  “paths to work with the Nigerian government to end the slaughter of our brothers and sisters in Christ.”

    He  described what he  witnessed during the visit as  heartbreaking.

    His words: “I met a woman who witnessed all five of her children murdered in front of her.

    “Another woman lost her husband and two daughters and had her unborn child killed.” 

    READ ALSO: Benin Republic demons

    Moore and four other US Congressmen met with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Attorney General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and other top government officials while in Nigeria.

    They also visited internally displaced persons and  survivors of terrorist attacks in Benue State.

    Ribadu had earlier visited the US following allegations by Trump of  a genocide against Christian in Nigeria.

    He threatened to send bombs to attack the brains behind the ‘genocide’.

  • Troops repel ISWAP attack on Army base in Borno

    Troops repel ISWAP attack on Army base in Borno

    Operation Hadin Kai troops have repelled ISWAP terrorists’ coordinated attack on Forward Operating Base Mairari in Borno, delivering a decisive blow to the group’s operational capability in the area.

    According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), this is contained in a statement by the Media Information Officer, OPHK, Lt.-Col. Sani Uba, on Saturday.

    Uba said the assault, which began late Friday and continued into the early hours of Saturday, was thwarted through coordinated ground and air operations.

    He said the terrorists attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs).

    According to him, both devices were promptly detected and neutralised by the troops, preventing any penetration of the base.

    “CCTV footage and field observations confirmed that several terrorists were killed, while others sustained serious injuries as surviving elements evacuated their dead and wounded.

    “Following the failed assault, OPHK troops of Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, Nigeria Police Crack Team, and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a thorough exploitation of the area.

    “The operation led to the discovery of multiple terrorist casualties and the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during their retreat.

    READ ALSO: Dominant APC waits with bated breath

    “Recovered items included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies, and other materials indicative of sustained terrorist operations,” he said.

    Uba said the successful recovery of the terrorists’ equipment and logistics had further degraded their operational capacity and denied them freedom of action in the area.

    He said the two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK defensive fire, causing damage to two points along the road.

    According to him, there was no breach of the FOB, highlighting the preparedness, vigilance, and resilience of the troops.

    Uba said the troops were currently conducting aggressive patrols in the area to prevent further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of the continued security presence.

    “Troops remain resolute in their commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East.

    “The failed attack at Mairari underscores the operational readiness and professionalism of our men and women in uniform.

    “Troops of OPHK have continued to prioritise the protection of civilians, the disruption of terrorist networks, and the restoration of peace across the region,” he added.

  • Tinubu: New dawn of peace, prosperity coming in Benue

    Tinubu: New dawn of peace, prosperity coming in Benue

    President Bola Tinubu has ignited a beacon of hope for the people of Benue State, assuring them that his administration is committed to restoring lasting peace in the state, thereby ensuring the nation’s food basket continues to flourish and reach unprecedented heights of prosperity.

    In his keynote address at the 2025 Annual Tiv Day celebration, held in Gboko, Benue State, on Saturday, t Tinubu stated that peace and security have already been restored in some parts of the county, while security personnel are working tirelessly to achieve total peace and bring about a new era of harmony.

    ” We have boosted the morale of security agencies and encourage them with necessary tools to be more proactive though intelligence gathering “

    Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, Mr. President said ”  I advised the entire people to use your commercial  strength and  foster unity of purpose.

    “In addition   set aside your  differences for the progress of Benue and Nigeria in general, just as you  work you together towards a brighter future Nigeria,” he said.

    He congratulated the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nenatawe Yilwatda, and many other Nigerians who were conferred with Tiv honorific chieftaincy titles and urged them to promote harmonious living among different ethnic groups and to be beacons of hope for a united Nigeria.

    READ ALSO: Dominant APC waits with bated breath

    Senator Akume, in his brief remarks stressed the importance of preserving the rich Tiv cultural heritage for future generations and called for support for President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government, which is committed to uplifting the lives of all Nigerians.

    Also speaking, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, who was also conferred with a chieftaincy title, described the occasion as historic and urged total support for President Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general election, and to continue to work together towards a more prosperous Nigeria.

    Alia said the people of Benue have wholeheartedly supported President Tinubu’s development stride through the Renew Hope Agenda.

  • Africa–Gulf partnership can redefine global energy future — Etete

    Africa–Gulf partnership can redefine global energy future — Etete

    The Group Chief Executive Officer of Century Group, Mr. Ken Etete, has urged African and Gulf nations to forge a deeper and more strategic alliance, saying such collaboration could reshape the global energy landscape.

    Etete made the call while speaking at the African–Gulf Cooperation Dialogue in Doha, Qatar, a high-level forum that brought together political leaders, policymakers, and investors from both regions.

    He said ongoing shifts in global energy systems and geopolitical influence present a rare opportunity for Africa and the Gulf to evolve from cooperation into full convergence.

    He noted that Africa’s fast-growing and youthful population represents one of the world’s most significant economic prospects, but stressed that unlocking this potential depends on access to power, infrastructure, sustained investment, and mutual trust.

    Read Also: CBN orders PoS terminal providers to connect system to NIBSS, UPSL

     According to him, the Gulf contributes capital, technical capacity, and global credibility, while Africa offers scale, expanding markets, and long-term growth opportunities.

    Highlighting Nigeria’s role, Etete described the country as central to any Africa–Gulf energy partnership, citing its position as a gateway to West Africa’s over 420 million people, its strategic importance under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and its vast gas reserves.

     He said Nigeria should be viewed not merely as an investment destination but as a strategic multiplier for Gulf interests in Africa.

    Etete called for a new partnership framework anchored on local value creation, shared risk, and equality, urging African countries to move beyond the export of raw resources toward building domestic industries.

    He also referenced Century Group’s operations, noting that the company’s more than 20 years of experience in FPSOs, gas processing, and midstream infrastructure demonstrates that stability and certainty can be deliberately created even in complex operating environments.

    Etete concluded by encouraging leaders from Africa and the Gulf to seize the current moment to jointly shape a new global growth frontier through collaboration, co-creation, and long-term partnerships.

  • NEMA activates emergency response for Yuletide season

    NEMA activates emergency response for Yuletide season

    The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has activated its emergency response operations to provide quick responses to emergencies during the yuletide season and beyond.

    The Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mrs. Zubaida Umar, disclosed this in Abuja on Saturday at the end of a fitness exercise by staff of the Agency.

    The exercise, which featured a walk of about five kilometres, was aimed at promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and preparedness among staff in line with the Agency’s mandate as a frontline emergency coordination agency.

    The DG, in a statement by the Spokesperson of the Agency, Manzo Ezekiel, explained that physical readiness was critical to effective emergency response, especially during periods of heightened human and vehicular activities.

    She assured Nigerians that NEMA had activated its preparedness mechanisms nationwide and is working in close coordination with relevant stakeholders, including security agencies, emergency responders, and other critical agencies, to ensure rapid response to any emergency during the festive period.

    Umar urged members of the public to remain safety-conscious throughout the celebrations, advising motorists to avoid speeding, adhere to traffic regulations, and exercise caution on the roads and waterways, at public gatherings, and in residential areas.

    READ ALSO: Dominant APC waits with bated breath

    She further reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, emphasising that the Agency remains on standby across its zonal, territorial, and state operations offices to facilitate a timely response to emergencies that may arise during the yuletide season and in the days ahead.

    The Director of Search and Rescue at NEMA, Air Commodore Bature Usman, explained that the fitness exercise was a routine activity designed to keep personnel physically and mentally prepared for emergency response operations at all times.

    The exercise featured the participation of the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).