The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Sobotie, Ohwofa, Delta lawmakers attend surprise 68th birthday party for Emerhor

    Dignitaries including the Delta chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Elder Omeni Sobotie; renowned businessman and former President of Urhobo Social Club, Lagos, Olorogun Simeon Ohwofa; and the members representing Ughelli North Constituency 1 & 11 at the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Spencer Ohwofa and Hon. Matthew Omonade on Tuesday paid separate surprise birthday visits to boardroom tactician and founding leader of the Delta APC, Olorogun O’tega Emerhor.

    Also at Emerhor’s country home in Evwreni town to felicitate with him were former Delta Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Chief Andrew Orugbo; Bomadi Council Chairman, Hon. Dagidi Rawlings Andaye; APC Chieftain, Elder Donatus Uba; Uvwie APC chieftain, Chief  Eric Egere; Hon. Monday Oyeghe, Mudiaga  Okorefe, Marcus Uba and others.

    Emerhor, a renowned businessman and the first politician to contest an election on the APC platform in Nigeria, during the 2013 Delta Central senatorial by-election, months after the party’s formation, clocked 68 on Tuesday.

    Emerhor Political Sons (EPS) also threw a surprise birthday party at the home of the celebrant to celebrate the 2015 governorship candidate of APC in Delta.

    Taking turns to speak at their visits, Sobotie, described Emerhor as a pride of the state for his achievements in the business community and his sacrifice in politics.

    Sobotie prayed for good health and a long life for Olorogun Emerhor, noting that the Delta APC founding leader deserves to be celebrated by all.

    Also speaking, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 2, Hon. Omonade, praised Olorogun Emerhor for his commitment to the growth and development of APC in the state.

    Omonade said, “Our daddy (Emerhor) is someone who has inspired hope, commitment, love, and unwavering commitment to service. I came here today not because I have nothing to do. We took it as a duty to come and celebrate with our leader. Individually and collectively, he has impacted our lives.

    “I remember when I contested in 2023, he did something remarkable. People did not know he supported me with millions of naira, and I was shocked that people who were close to him were not even aware. That shows that he is someone who does good without announcing it. I am very grateful.

    “I pray for a long life and prosperity. We pray that in 10 and 20 years from now we will still come here to celebrate him.”

    In the same vein, the member representing Ughelli North Constituency 1, Mr Spencer Ohwofa, saluted the celebrant for his forthrightness and doggedness that resulted in the APC becoming the ruling party in the state.

    Ohwofa commended Emerhor for his selfless service to APC and humanity, stressing that he deserves all the accolades for the successes the party has recorded in the state.

    “The history of APC cannot be completely written without your name. You have been a father to all. Even when we go astray, you are always ready to receive us. It shows how kindhearted you are to us your children. You’re a good leader and father.

    “Delta State is now an APC state. If not for people like you, it would have been a different story, but God used you, and He will continue to use you to ensure that the development you yearn for in Delta State comes to pass. The Renewed Hope for More Agenda is already manifesting in Delta State”, Ohwofa noted.

    In his remark, Delta APC chieftain, Chief Okareme Maikpobi, called on Olorogun Emerhor to contest the Delta Central senatorial seat in the forthcoming 2027 election, noting that it is time to reward his selfless sacrifice to the party.

    Other speakers at the birthday party, including various APC pressure groups, especially Emerhor Political Sons and Emerhor Political Women Vanguard, also reechoed the call for Emerhor to seek an elective position to give the state quality representation.

    Olorogun Emerhor told his party chieftains of his desire to consider the request to contest the 2027 Delta Central Senate seat.

    He commended his political family and APC leaders for the surprise birthday in his honour, pledging to continue the development of APC and Delta State.

  • Oyo approves N3bn for Cocoa rejuvenation

    Oyo approves N3bn for Cocoa rejuvenation

    Oyo State government on Tuesday expressed its commitment and readiness to restore the glory of cocoa production as one of the state’s major economic pillars.

    To this effect, the government said it has approved a total of N3,030,292,472 for the establishment of Cocoa Rejuvenation Project to be driven through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).

    The project is to be coordinated by the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA).

    The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the approval was given at the State Executive Council meeting which held on Tuesday. 

    The Commissioner explained that the state government is taking this initiative because Oyo State ranks fourth in cocoa production among the 18 cocoa-producing states in Nigeria.

    He said, “The state is also being proactive by seizing the opportunity created by disruptions in cocoa production in major producing countries like Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.

    “It is the intention of Oyo State to fill the supply void as a result of the production problems facing the West African countries.

    “The Cocoa Rejuvenation Project, which costs two million, seventy-five thousand, five hundred and forty-seven dollars ($2,075,547), will be funded in three tranches over the next three years.”

    The Commissioner added that the Council also backed the call by Southwest governors on their call for State Police and observed that the lack of enthusiasm by the youths to join the military makes the domestication of local policing more urgent.

    “The Council lauded the foresight of Governor Seyi Makinde to procure two surveillance aircrafts for the state security apparatus to track and monitor movements in dangerous areas and the continued support for Amotekun that has made it the best staffed and equipped in the Southwest.

    “Additionally, the Council approved €50 million for the Oyo State Health Care Initiative. This loan from the French Government, which Oyo State initiated about three years ago, was finally approved by the Federal Ministry of Finance in a letter dated November 10, 2025.”

    Oyelade explained that the loan, intended for infrastructural upgrades and equipping state hospitals, among other purposes, has also been approved by the State House of Assembly to enable the state government to access the funds.

    He added that the Oyo State Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy was also approved by the council. 

    The approval according to him will unlock financial opportunities and allow the state to access funds from the Federal Government, the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and other international partners. 

    He added that the objective of the fund is to eliminate open defecation, achieve universal access to safely managed sanitation, and integrate hygiene promotion into communities.

    The Commissioner said that the Council at its meeting also approved the establishment of the Oyo State Climate Action Plans and Policies, which will allow for the engagement of a Green Energy Agency.

    He said that the approval authorizes the engagement of a Green Energy Agency to implement the policies, backed by a N270million guarantee from a reputable bank.

    The Council further approved the Business Enabling Reforms Action Plan for 2026, a mandatory requirement for state participation in the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER), adding that the sum.of N400million was also approved to meet the eligibility criteria.

  • CORBON strengthens code of conduct for registered builders

    CORBON strengthens code of conduct for registered builders

    The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) yesterday said that over the past three years, it has strengthened its code of conduct for registered builders, reinforcing accountability and moral responsibility.

    The Council also said that it advocated for inclusive development, ensuring that construction practices aligned with community values and social equity.

    Its Chairman, Dr. Samson Opaluwah said this during the 6th convocation lecture with the theme: faith, innovation and sustainability: building a resilient future for Nigeria delivered at Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State.

    Opaluwah said the council has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) to enhance professional standards and promote sustainable construction practices through global knowledge exchange.

    He added that through partnerships with organisations like GIZ, CORBON has supported vocational training in eco-friendly construction methods and has successfully trained 50,000 artisans in building trades.

    Opaluwah stated that the Council has launched platforms like the Builder’s Management Portal (BuMaP) and iReg for streamlined registration, verification, and compliance monitoring.

    “CORBON’s recent activities demonstrate a holistic approach to nation-building, anchored in faith, driven by innovation, and committed to sustainability.

    “As Nigeria navigates the challenges of the 21st century, CORBON’s leadership in shaping a resilient built environment and remains indispensable, and by God’s grace will accomplish its mission to our country,” Opaluwah said.

    Vice – chancellor of Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Prof Haruna Ayuba said that convocation lectures are designed to instil a sense of purpose, inspire, motivate and remind graduates as they step into new phases of life to make positive contributions to society.

  • FULL LIST: Nigeria, Australia, 8 other countries with most languages

    FULL LIST: Nigeria, Australia, 8 other countries with most languages

    If the world were mapped not by landmass or economic power but by the sheer density of spoken languages, the globe would appear dramatically different. While English, Mandarin, and Spanish often dominate global discourse, the true guardians of human expression are countries shaped by archipelagos, rainforests, and ancient tribal histories.

    Of the more than 7,000 languages spoken today, the majority are concentrated in a small number of nations. Here is a look at the countries where linguistic diversity thrives most:

    1. Papua New Guinea — 840 Languages | 8 Million People

    Papua New Guinea remains the undisputed leader in linguistic density. Its rugged terrain of rainforests, swamps, and mountains has allowed small communities to develop and preserve unique languages over thousands of years with minimal outside influence.

    2. Indonesia — About 710 Languages

    Spread across thousands of islands, Indonesia is a linguistic powerhouse. Although Bahasa Indonesia serves as a unifying national language, it is a second language for most citizens. The archipelago’s roughly 710 local tongues reflect its deep Austronesian and Papuan roots shaped by centuries of migration and trade.

    3. Nigeria — About 520 Languages

    Nigeria is both an economic force and a cultural mosaic. With more than 500 languages spoken across its regions, the country’s linguistic diversity mirrors ancient trade routes and pre-colonial boundaries. English remains the official language, but Nigeria’s true identity is carried in its hundreds of ethnic languages.

    4. India — About 450 Languages

    India’s linguistic landscape is as vast as its geography. While 22 official languages are recognised in the Constitution and Hindi is widely spoken, the census records more than 450 living languages. This extraordinary diversity reflects centuries of dynastic changes, migrations, and the interwoven influences of Aryan, Dravidian, and Austroasiatic cultures.

    5. United States — About 430 Languages

    The United States is home to a blend of Indigenous languages and those brought through waves of immigration. Its 430 languages coexist without a federally designated official language, making it a modern melting pot of global speech traditions.

    6. China — 301 Languages

    Despite the dominance of Standard Chinese (Mandarin), China is far from monolingual. The country hosts 301 living languages, with regional dialects and minority tongues flourishing alongside the national standard.

    7. Mexico — 290 Languages

    Mexico’s linguistic richness is rooted in its Indigenous heritage. While Spanish is widely used, the nation officially recognises 68 linguistic groups comprising 290 languages, many of which trace back to pre-Hispanic civilizations.

    8. Cameroon — 275 Languages

    Situated between West and Central Africa, Cameroon is a linguistic crossroads with roughly 275 languages. Citizens often navigate daily life using a local mother tongue alongside French and English, reflecting a layered colonial history.

    9. Australia — 120 Surviving Languages

    Before colonisation, Australia had more than 260 Aboriginal languages. Today, around 120 remain, though only 13 are considered strong. Despite this decline, efforts to document and revitalise Indigenous languages continue to gain momentum.

    10. Brazil — 228 Languages

    Beyond its Portuguese-speaking majority, Brazil holds a vast array of 228 languages, most thriving within Indigenous communities of the Amazon basin. These languages have endured through centuries of pressure from colonisation and modern development.

  • Catholic Bishops to Fed, state govts: expose kidnappers, bring them to justice

    Catholic Bishops to Fed, state govts: expose kidnappers, bring them to justice

    The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) on Tuesday urged the federal and state governments to, as a matter of urgency, identify abductors involved in the recent kidnapping incident in some states and prosecute them.

    The bishops decried the level of security, which they said has claimed countless lives, razed communities, and forced thousands into displaced camps.

    They demanded the immediate rescue of all abducted persons and an investigation into alleged delayed security responses in affected communities to rebuild public trust.

    According to a statement titled “Peace in Nigeria: Moving from Fragility to Stability”, jointly signed by CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, and Secretary, Bishop Donatus Aihmiosion Ogun, the bishops said Nigeria’s fragile social and religious climate had been worsened by rampant violence, unconstitutional actions of some Shariah institutions, and alleged abuses linked to Hisbah operations in the North.

    CBCN expressed concern over repeated attacks on communities in the North and Middle Belt, adding that in some cases, delayed or absent security responses had created suspicions of collusion or negligence.

    The Bishops emphasised that apart from Christians, Muslims and other ethnic groups have also suffered from the same wave of violence ravaging the country.

    Recent mass abductions, including worshippers in Kwara, 25 young girls in Kebbi, 13 female farmers in Borno, and over 265 schoolchildren and teachers in Niger State, as well as the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba and dozens of security personnel, were cited as evidence of Nigeria’s deepening insecurity.

    CBCN said, “When criminals can strike schools, farms, and communities with impunity, it threatens the very foundations of family life, education, and social stability.

    “In the light of this worsening situation, we call on the Government at all levels to urgently and decisively fulfil its foremost duty, as mandated by Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, to protect the lives and property of all citizens. The Government has both the responsibility and the means to end this violence and must no longer allow impunity to prevail.

    “Those responsible for these heinous crimes must be identified and brought to justice, for without accountability there can be no lasting peace. We urge that reports of delayed or withheld security responses in some affected communities be thoroughly investigated to rebuild public trust.

    “The Government must also take all lawful and urgent measures to secure the immediate and safe return of all abducted persons, including the young girls taken in Kebbi, the pupils and teachers seized in Kontagora, and the young females abducted in Borno, and ensure that displaced citizens can return to their ancestral homes. This moment calls for decisive action to halt the terror engulfing our nation and for meaningful dialogue and peacebuilding aimed at restoring confidence among our people.

    “Lasting peace cannot be achieved through silence or delay. It requires justice, courage, and a firm commitment to the sanctity of human life. Nigerians and the global community can no longer tolerate excuses for continued insecurity. We further draw attention to the persistent violations of the rights and freedoms of Christian minorities in several northern states.

    “The denial of land for the construction of churches, particularly within federal institutions, and the destruction of Christian places of worship, especially at the height of Boko Haram’s insurgency, are matters that demand urgent and decisive government action.

    “The overreach of Sharia Courts in some states poses serious constitutional concerns, as it threatens Nigeria’s secular character and infringes on the rights of Christian minorities. It is in this context that we recall with deep sorrow the brutal killing of Deborah Samuel Yakubu in Sokoto, an incident fuelled by extremist interpretations of Sharia-related accusations, and we once again demand justice for her, as impunity in such cases undermines the rule of law and endangers the rights of all citizens.

    “While moral formation is essential in every society, the activities of morality enforcement groups such as the Hisbah have frequently resulted in harassment and intimidation of innocent citizens, including Christians and Muslims alike, in the exercise of their fundamental freedoms”.

    The bishops added, “Nigeria’s rich religious and cultural pluralism must foster unity, mutual respect, and peace rather than division and suspicion. We salute the courage of the Nigerian people who, despite these trying times, continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and trust in the promise of a better future.

    “We urge all citizens, irrespective of religion, tribe, or political persuasion, to remain united in the quest for peace and the rebuilding of our common life. Every Nigerian is called to be an agent of healing, to reject hatred and retaliation, to speak words that foster understanding, and to uphold justice, dialogue, and mutual respect. Peace is not the responsibility of a select few. It is the duty of all.

    “Rather than engaging in divisive arguments about who has suffered more losses, we should stand together in defending the sacredness of every human life and protecting the vulnerable. Together, we can transform our diversity into strength and build a nation that truly reflects harmony, justice, and hope.”

  • Tinubu appoints Uzodimma as Renewed Hope Ambassador

    Tinubu appoints Uzodimma as Renewed Hope Ambassador

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as the Renewed Hope Ambassador ahead of the national rollout of the Federal Government’s Ward Development Programme.

    A statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said Governor Uzodimma will also serve as the Director-General for Party Outreach, Engagement and Mobilisation.

    His appointment takes immediate effect.

    Under his new mandate, the governor, who is also the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, will work with the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership and governors across the federation to “evangelise” the Tinubu administration’s programmes and achievements.

    He will be expected to drive harmony, inclusiveness, and strategic coordination across party structures, while mobilising grassroots support.

    President Tinubu said the APC governors will equally serve as “Ambassadors of Hope,” working collectively with Uzodimma to promote and disseminate the administration’s milestones since taking office in May 2023.

    The President highlighted several policy gains recorded under his Renewed Hope Agenda, including seven consecutive months of eased inflation to 16.05 per cent in October, stabilisation of the exchange rate, and a significant rise in foreign reserves to over $46 billion, up from $32 billion and a net reserve of $4 billion inherited in 2023.

    He added that investor confidence has rebounded, with rising foreign direct and portfolio investments, particularly in the oil and gas sector, alongside a booming stock market and growing economic diversification driven by solid minerals.

    The government’s liberalised student loan scheme has so far enrolled over 700,000 beneficiaries, while passport processing timelines have been shortened nationwide to under one week.

    President Tinubu tasked Governor Uzodimma with ensuring that Nigerians across all communities are informed about these achievements and fully understand the administration’s progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

  • Police launch manhunt for community leader, accomplices over murder of three youths in Delta

    Police launch manhunt for community leader, accomplices over murder of three youths in Delta

    The Delta State Police Command has activated a full-scale manhunt for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and all members of the armed group responsible for the deadly attack that claimed the lives of three innocent youths on Monday, November 24, 2025, near ‘B’ Division, Asaba, the state capital.

    Police spokesman SP Bright Edafe said preliminary investigations revealed that the said Chief allegedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cult members, some brazenly disguised in Army camouflage, to a parcel of land at Okwe community along the Asaba–Onitsha Road in a deliberate attempt to lay claim to the property.

    He said the group proceeded to enforce an unauthorised quit notice, without a court order.

    Edafe indicated that their illegal operation encountered resistance, resulting in a violent confrontation.

    He noted the armed group allegedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing severe gunshot injuries to three youths, who were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment at the hospital.

    The spokesman said in response to the criminal attack, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered the deployment of tactical teams, intelligence operatives, and specialised investigators to track, identify, and arrest all individuals involved.

    The CP has condemned the act as an unprovoked, reckless, and brazen display of lawlessness that will not be tolerated under any guise.

    He called on residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba, and neighbouring communities to support the ongoing manhunt.

    He emphasised that the Command would not relent until every perpetrator of the violence, irrespective of title, influence, or backing, is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.

    Abaniwonda further reassured the public that normalcy had been restored in the area, noting that sustained surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated search operations are in progress to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.

    The CP said, “The Delta State Police Command remains steadfast in protecting the lives and property of all residents.

    “Members of the public are encouraged to report any sighting, suspicious movements, or credible information about the suspects through the Command’s dedicated emergency lines: 08036684974.”

  • Leading with Arts Fellowship empowers young female creatives in Lagos

    Leading with Arts Fellowship empowers young female creatives in Lagos

    A fresh wave of creativity and social consciousness is taking root in Lagos as 25 young female artists have completed the Leading with Arts Fellowship, a programme designed to use art as a tool for leadership, healing, and community transformation.

    The initiative, organised by Advocates for Health and Rights of Women and Youths Initiative (ADHERI), funded by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), and supported by Alliance Française, has grown from a modest idea into a vibrant movement driving cultural impact.

    What began as small, intimate sessions soon evolved into immersive workshops blending visual art, performance, storytelling, and activism. Participants were guided by mentors who encouraged them not only to refine their craft but to embrace leadership through self-awareness and self-expression, one of the programme’s key lessons.

    The fellows explored themes of resilience, justice, identity, and community. Through their paintings, sculptures, and performances, they created work that reflected personal stories and broader social issues. Organisers said the goal was not merely to teach artistic skills but to help young women find their voice and use it to effect change.

    Executive Director of ADHERi, Emmanuel Etim, Mr Emmanuel Etim noted that several participants have already launched community art projects, local campaigns, and exhibitions inspired by the fellowship.

    Their works will also feature prominently at the Nigeria We Want Art Exhibition scheduled for November 30 in Lagos. 

    The showcase is expected to amplify perspectives from underserved communities and highlight the role of young female creatives in national discourse.

    According to Etim, collaborations are already emerging among artists, educators, and policymakers, signalling the potential of arts-led initiatives to contribute to social development.

    The fellowship, he added, demonstrates how creativity, when nurtured, can become a catalyst for leadership, empowerment, and long-term community change.

  • UCL: Things to know as Chelsea host Barcelona

    UCL: Things to know as Chelsea host Barcelona

    Chelsea and Barcelona – two former Champions League winners enter Tuesday night’s showdown level on seven points from their first four league-phase fixtures, making the clash at Stamford Bridge pivotal in the race for automatic top-eight qualification.

    Both sides sit just outside the cut-off and know that victory could significantly strengthen their push toward the last 16.

    Chelsea arrive in impressive domestic form, riding a wave of three consecutive Premier League wins against Tottenham, Wolves, and Burnley, all without conceding. Enzo Maresca’s young squad has surged to second place behind leaders Arsenal, with the Blues remarkably going 50 straight Premier League matches without starting a player aged 30 or above. Barcelona, meanwhile, remain locked in their usual battle with Real Madrid for La Liga supremacy.

    Hansi Flick’s men enjoyed a triumphant return to the refurbished Camp Nou on Saturday, dispatching Athletic Bilbao 4–0 in front of their home fans for the first time in 909 days. Ferran Torres struck twice, Lamine Yamal delivered two assists, Robert Lewandowski got his trademark goal, and Fermin Lopez added another as Barça reclaimed top spot in Spain.

    The history between the two giants has swung dramatically across eras. Chelsea famously stunned Barcelona in 2012 under Roberto Di Matteo on their way to their maiden Champions League title, while the Catalans returned the favour in 2017–18 with a commanding 3–0 round-of-16 aggregate win.

    Tuesday’s meeting may not carry knockout stakes, but both teams urgently need points after inconsistent European starts. Barcelona were held to a chaotic 3–3 draw by Club Brugge last time out, while Chelsea managed only a point away to Qarabag.

    Barça’s defensive fragility remains a theme, having conceded in every Champions League match this season, though Saturday’s clean sheet ended an 11-game run without one. Chelsea, by contrast, looks steadier at the back and continues to rely on a blossoming young core mixed with emerging leadership.

    Team News

    Chelsea captain Reece James was substituted at half-time against Burnley, but Maresca clarified the decision was precautionary and pre-planned. Wesley Fofana, rested for “protection,” should return to contention, while Tosin Adarabioyo is pushing for a start after starring at the weekend. However, the Blues remain without Romeo Lavia (thigh), Cole Palmer (groin/toe), Dario Essugo (thigh), Levi Colwill (knee), and the still-suspended Mykhaylo Mudryk.

    For Barcelona, Alejandro Balde was withdrawn after a head knock but is expected to be available. Marcus Rashford is doubtful due to illness, though Raphinha made his comeback from a hamstring injury, and Ferran Torres’s brace makes him difficult to drop. Frenkie de Jong returns after a domestic suspension, but Pedri (hamstring), Gavi (knee), and Marc-André ter Stegen (back) remain sidelined.

    Chelsea’s possible XI:

    Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Pedro, Garnacho; Delap

    Barcelona’s possible XI:

    J. Garcia; Kounde, E. Garcia, Cubarsi, Balde; Casado, De Jong; Yamal, Lopez, Torres; Lewandowski

    Match Details

    Location: London, England

    Stadium: Stamford Bridge

    Date: Tuesday, Nov. 25

    Kick-off: 9 p.m

    Referee: Slavko Vinčić (SVN)

    VAR: Christian Dingert (GER)

    Betting Tips / Prediction:

    Over 1.5 goals

    Both teams to score

    Chelsea 2–4 Barcelona

  • Tinubu mourns veteran journalist, long-time associate, Bayo Osiyemi

    Tinubu mourns veteran journalist, long-time associate, Bayo Osiyemi

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Prince Bayo Osiyemi, a veteran journalist, writer, politician, and one of his longstanding associates.

    Osiyemi died in Lagos on Monday at the age of 75.

    In a statement issued Monday evening by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the late Osiyemi as a “renowned politician, a dependable ally, and a revered leader,” particularly in his Mushin political base, where he was widely known and respected.

    Osiyemi, fondly called the “Charming Prince,” served as Chief Press Secretary to Lagos State’s first civilian governor, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, and later as Chairman of the old Mushin Local Government.

    His public service career also saw him appointed Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Matters by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a role in which President Tinubu said he further demonstrated “his devotion to the state’s development and its traditional institution.”

    The President paid tribute to Osiyemi’s legacy as a distinguished journalist and columnist whose contributions enriched the media landscape and public discourse over several decades.

    He noted that his passing represents “a great loss to Lagos, the media community, and all who admired his colourful personality.”

    President Tinubu extended condolences to the Osiyemi family, his friends, associates, and the Lagos media fraternity, praying that God grants the deceased eternal rest.