The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Alaafin hails Makinde’s leadership, praises governor’s vision, courage

    Alaafin hails Makinde’s leadership, praises governor’s vision, courage

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has described Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as a leader who exemplifies the rare blend of sound thinking and decisive action.

    He said the governor has consistently demonstrated the qualities of a good leader, particularly the courage to take bold decisions and the readiness to bear the consequences of such actions.

    The monarch made the remarks through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, in a congratulatory message to Governor Makinde on his birthday.

    According to Oba Owoade, Makinde came into office with a clear vision backed by courage and competence, noting that his belief in probity has continued to drive the steady progress being recorded in Oyo State.

    “Governor Makinde is more interested in people who can sustain his institutional reforms and other legacies than in personal preferences,” the Alaafin said.

    He added that the governor values brilliance, truthfulness and hard work, stressing that anyone who aligns with his vision would find him ready to work with them.

    “He runs an inclusive government, but you can only benefit if you key into his vision of RTR—reformation, transformation and repositioning. Governor Makinde is a true believer who fears God and is in tune with the spirit of the word of God. He is neither arrogant nor uncouth or incoherent,” the monarch stated.

    Oba Owoade further noted that the people of Oyo State would remain grateful to Governor Makinde for what he described as unprecedented achievements with far-reaching impact on the lives of residents.

    He prayed God to grant the governor long life, good health and divine guidance as he continues to shoulder the demanding responsibilities of governance.

  • OYRTMA chairman extends Christmas support to families of fallen officers

    OYRTMA chairman extends Christmas support to families of fallen officers

    In the spirit of the Christmas and New Year festive season, the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd.), has shown love and appreciation to the families of traffic officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

    The chairman presented food items and monetary gifts to the bereaved families as a way of celebrating the Christmas season and easing their burdens. The event took place on Wednesday at the OYRTMA Headquarters, Secretariat, Ibadan.

    The gesture, aimed at bringing joy, comfort, and encouragement to the families, was described as a token of the agency’s gratitude for the sacrifices made by the late officers in the service of Oyo State.

    Major Adesagba commended the families for their resilience and patience despite their loss, urging them to keep alive the cherished memories of their loved ones.

    “The sacrifices of our fallen personnel will always be remembered and honoured,” the Chairman said.

    The beneficiaries, in their responses, expressed deep gratitude to the OYRTMA leadership for the kind gesture, offering prayers for the continued success of the agency and its management.

  • 2027: ADC heading for implosion like PDP, Okechukwu predicts

    2027: ADC heading for implosion like PDP, Okechukwu predicts

    • ….PDP’s crisis karma induced

    A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Osita Okechukwu, has warned that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could suffer a similar implosion currently rocking the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) if it breaches the rotation convention that allows the South to complete the traditional eight years in office.

    Okechukwu, the immediate past Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), described the lingering crisis in the PDP—culminating in the rejection of the Tanimu Turaki-led faction—as karma finally catching up with the party.

    Speaking with newsmen in Abuja, he cautioned the ADC, which he alleged played a role in inducing the PDP’s political implosion, to beware of a similar fate in 2027 if it proceeds to violate the zoning arrangement. He warned that such a move would amount to a rendezvous with karma.

    Okechukwu expressed regret that if the ADC succumbs to what he described as “power gluttony” in 2027 by breaching the rotation convention and denying the South the completion of its eight years in Aso Villa, it would have no one else to blame.

    He maintained that the PDP is paying dearly for its flagrant violation of the rotation or zoning convention and Section 7 of its constitution, which mandates the rotation of the presidency between the North and the South.

    “I hope that when the ADC in 2027 plunges into the temptation of breaching the rotation convention by not allowing the South to complete the traditional eight years in Aso Villa, they will neither blame President Bola Ahmed Tinubu nor the APC for imposing a one-party system in Nigeria,” he said.

    According to him, by then, “it will amount to boarding a vehicle tagged ‘No Refund After Payment.’”

    Okechukwu recalled that warnings had been persistently issued to Ndigbo against putting all their political eggs in one basket—the PDP—since the 1999 presidential election, when the party denied its founder and former Vice President, Dr. Alex Ekwueme, the presidential ticket.

    He also cited the 2003 and 2007 elections, when Rt. Hon. Dr. Chuba Okadigbo and Rt. Hon. Edwin Umezoke were fielded as presidential candidates, as well as the 2011 and 2019 presidential elections.

    “It is my candid view that the ADC will suffer the same fate as the PDP, especially as it is on the same trajectory of breaching the rotation convention based on the false assumption that the northern electorate can simply be mobilised en masse to vote for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar,” Okechukwu said.

    “I am at a loss as to why the ADC leadership assumes that the sophisticated northern electorate will hand them 12 million votes, when it is the consensus platform of rotation that guarantees inclusion, equity and a sense of belonging,” he added.

    The former VON boss stressed that the PDP leadership should not blame President Tinubu or the Wike-led G-5 governors for the party’s implosion, but rather accept what he described as the bitter pill of karma—an outcome he warned the ADC is heading towards by omission or commission.

    He concluded by stressing that Nigeria’s Fourth Republic is firmly anchored on the zoning and rotation convention as a key pillar of national unity in a fragile and polarised polity, warning that any violent breach of the arrangement would similarly plunge the ADC into crisis, just as it has done to the PDP.

  • Christmas: Anglican Bishop urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Christmas: Anglican Bishop urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    The Anglican Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev’d Prof. Samuel Ike, has urged Nigerians to allow Jesus Christ, to reign in their lives and national affairs, describing Christmas as a season of hope for a troubled world.

    In his 2025 Christmas message titled “Allow the Prince of Peace to Reign,” the Bishop said while Christmas is often associated with celebrations, reunions, and gift-giving, its true essence lies in God’s love and peace offered to humanity through the birth of Jesus Christ.

    He felicitated with Christians, leaders, and citizens of Enugu State and Nigeria at large, noting that the Christmas message remains one of “good tidings of great joy” despite changing times and generations.

    Reflecting on the state of the nation, Bishop Ike said the coming of Christ is particularly significant for Nigeria, which is grappling with insecurity, economic hardship, a failing healthcare system, and widespread injustice. 

    He lamented that many Nigerians did not live to see Christmas, while others are held captive by kidnappers or displaced by violence.

    While condemning terrorism and what he described as targeted attacks on Christians, the cleric called on the Federal Government to act decisively and justly, stressing that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.

    Bishop Ike said the recent sentencing of Nnamdi Kanu has further polarised the country along ethnic lines, with many Nigerians perceiving it as politically motivated. 

    He therefore appealed to President Bola Tinubu to pursue a political solution that would ease tensions in the Southeast and promote national unity.

    He also urged Nigerian leaders to rise above divisive rhetoric, especially on social media, and allow the spirit of Christmas to guide their decisions, noting that Nigeria can only regain its standing among nations when leaders submit to the reign of Christ.

    The Bishop prayed for Nigerian soldiers spending Christmas on the battlefield and for displaced persons in IDP camps across the country.

    Turning to Enugu State, Bishop Ike commended Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as a paradigm shift in governance, citing achievements in agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation, and security. 

    However, he appealed for a review of multiple taxation in the state, saying the burden is weighing heavily on residents and undermining livelihoods.

    He expressed confidence that the governor, whom he described as a listening leader, would respond compassionately in the spirit of the season.

  • Government should decentralise security – Expert

    Government should decentralise security – Expert

    A security consultant, Francis Eloagu, has called on the federal government to decentralise Nigeria’s security architecture, stressing that insecurity will persist unless the country adopts intelligence-led, technology-driven and locally coordinated security systems.

    Eloagu, a security expert with SolidPro Security Company Ltd, said Nigeria must urgently shift from reactive security measures to preventive strategies that rely on real-time intelligence, surveillance technology and rapid response frameworks.

    According to him, insecurity continues to thrive because threats move faster than the current response mechanisms. He noted that deploying more personnel without integrated systems has proven ineffective in tackling modern security challenges.

    “My interest is driven by the need for preventive, intelligence-led security in Nigeria. Being careful is individual and reactive, but being security conscious is systemic and proactive,” Eloagu said.

    He explained that effective security requires the integration of manpower, technology and institutions, adding that the absence of this coordination remains the missing link in Nigeria’s security framework.

    Eloagu urged state governments to establish Traffic Command and Control Centres to monitor security situations within their jurisdictions. 

    He said such centres should be supported by live CCTV surveillance of local government areas, major roads and identified threat zones, allowing for centralized analysis and faster decision-making.

    “With real-time monitoring and coordinated response, threats can be detected early and addressed decisively before escalation,” he said.

    The security consultant also emphasised the role of technology such as smart CCTV, drone patrols, vehicle scanners, plate recognition systems and geo-tagged community reporting, describing them as essential tools for modern security operations.

    He argued that while security agencies remain committed, they are overstretched and require technological support to improve efficiency and reduce response time.

    Eloagu further advocated the introduction of state police, supported by centralized intelligence systems and strong oversight, saying this would enable states to respond effectively to their peculiar security challenges.

    He also raised concerns about Nigeria’s dependence on foreign security equipment, urging the government to invest in local capacity and manufacturing.

    “National security is not something you outsource. While we need foreign technology, we are equally capable of developing our own solutions,” Eloagu said.

    According to him, insecurity has worsened over the past 15 years partly due to youth unemployment, poor education and lack of inclusion. 

    He urged the government to invest more in youth development and win the trust of young people across the country.

    “There are many youths who still want to fight for this country, but they must be given the opportunity,” he added.

  • Christmas Message: ADC appeals for peace, empathy, national healing

    Christmas Message: ADC appeals for peace, empathy, national healing

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on Nigerians to draw strength from unity, compassion and shared humanity as the country marks the Christmas season amid economic and security challenges.

    In a Christmas message issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party extended goodwill to Nigerian families celebrating the season, while acknowledging the difficult conditions facing many households across the country.

    The party noted that rising food prices, persistent insecurity and uncertainty about the nation’s future have weighed heavily on citizens, but said the season of Christmas remains a moment for reflection, empathy and hope.

    According to ADC, Nigeria’s greatest asset remains its people, whose resilience, compassion and commitment to coexistence across religious and communal lines continue to sustain the nation in trying times.

    The opposition party urged Nigerians to remember in prayer the victims, families and communities affected by the Christmas Eve bombing at a mosque in Borno State, describing the incident as a stark reminder that insecurity poses a shared threat to all citizens, irrespective of faith or background.

    It also paid tribute to Nigerians who remain on duty during the festive period, particularly security personnel, health workers and other essential service providers, whose sacrifices ensure public safety and wellbeing while many celebrate with their families.

    Wishing Nigerians a peaceful Christmas and a hopeful New Year, the party called for prayers for an end to suffering in the country and for leadership founded on conscience, empathy and genuine concern for the people.

  • AMG holds Asiwaju Christmas fiesta across Ondo, distributes gift items

    AMG holds Asiwaju Christmas fiesta across Ondo, distributes gift items

    In the spirit of the season and as part of its end-of-year engagements, the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG) has held a statewide celebration tagged Asiwaju Christmas Fiesta across the three Senatorial Districts of Ondo State. 

    The fiesta, which served as a unifying gathering for members, stakeholders, and supporters of the group, featured music, fellowship, and the sharing of goodwill in line with the values of the organisation.

    The celebration commenced on Sunday, December 21, in the Ondo North Senatorial District at the Cenotaph Centre, Ikare-Akoko, where performances by Sensational Kulubele and Akintayo of Bright Band thrilled the audience. 

    The fiesta continued on Monday, December 22, in the Ondo Central Senatorial District at the AMG Secretariat in Akure, with sensational performances by Kulubele and Sir Demola Suzzy. 

    The final leg of the celebration was held in the Ondo South Senatorial District at the AMG Secretariat along Ondo Road, Ore, where Bisi Alawiye entertained guests.

    Speaking at the event, the Director-General of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Asiwaju Olumuyiwa Asagunla, described the fiesta as a celebration of unity, loyalty and appreciation for the unwavering commitment of members across the state. 

    He commended their dedication and urged them to remain united, focused and steadfast as the group continues to promote the progressive governance and people-centred leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

    Asagunla also paid glowing tribute to the Convener of the group and Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, describing him as a committed progressive whose leadership continues to inspire grassroots mobilisation and purposeful governance. 

    He noted that the vision, support and steadfast encouragement of the Minister have remained central to the growth and cohesion of the Asiwaju Mandate Group across Ondo State, adding that the Christmas Fiesta reflected Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s people-centred philosophy and enduring commitment to unity, empowerment and inclusive political engagement.

    The events across the districts were attended by prominent leaders and stakeholders of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, alongside party and community leaders. 

    In Ondo North, dignitaries present included Hon. Ife Ehindero, Member of the House of Representatives, representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West, Hon.Fatai Atere, Member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, representing Akoko North West Constituency 1, well as several party chieftains and community leaders. The Ondo Central edition was graced by former Commissioners Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, Hon. Tobi Ogunleye and Dr. Lawrence Ibukun, alongside the former Accountant-General of Ondo State, Chief Kelly Agboola, and many other party leaders. 

    In the Ondo South Senatorial District, notable attendees included the Ondo State representative at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and a leader of the Asiwaju Mandate Group, Hon. Otito Atikase; Alhaji Olurimisi, a prominent Islamic leader in the state; the wife of Senator Yele Omogunwa; Hon. Yele Akinya; and former Commissioner Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju, among others.

    The celebrations were further enlivened by dance competitions through which various gift items, including blenders, electric fans, gas stoves and Android televisions, were won, while all attendees received Christmas gift packs.

    Particularly at the Ondo North edition held in Ikare-Akoko, the commitment of the Convener of the Asiwaju Mandate Group and Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to youth empowerment and talent development was visibly demonstrated when a 14-year-old performer thrilled the audience and was rewarded with a cash gift of ₦250,000 on the directive of the Minister. The gesture drew commendation from attendees and underscored Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s consistent support for young talents and grassroots engagement. Across all three Senatorial Districts, the fiesta also provided a platform for emerging artistes and comedians, with two musical acts and a comedian performing at each venue, further reflecting the Minister’s inclusive vision of encouraging creativity, youth participation and community-driven development.

    The Asiwaju Christmas Fiesta provided an opportunity for fellowship and reflection, while reaffirming the group’s commitment to grassroots engagement, sustained promotion of the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, and mobilisation for his re-election in 2027.

  • Christmas 2025: Nigerian celebrities share decorated photos 

    Christmas 2025: Nigerian celebrities share decorated photos 

    Celebrities have ushered in Christmas 2025 with a flurry of joyful posts on social media, offering a glimpse into their holiday celebrations.

    The festive atmosphere on Instagram has been palpable, with stars sharing heartwarming moments with loved ones, adorned in matching pyjamas, festive headbands, and surrounded by decorated Christmas trees.

    From glamorous family portraits to cozy gatherings, the photos have showcased the celebrities’ festive spirits.

  • Group hosts party to appreciate members

    Group hosts party to appreciate members

    The leadership of the BTO4PBAT in Ondo State has hosted members of the group, ward coordinators, and residents of the state to a get-together party sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Speaking at the colourful event, the Director-General of BTO4PBAT, Adesuyi Adojutelegan, said the programme was organised to appreciate members and supporters for their unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Adojutelegan noted that President Tinubu deserves re-election based on what he described as the administration’s notable achievements, particularly in stabilising the economy and the construction of durable road infrastructure across the country.

    He added that the recent reduction in the prices of staple food items such as rice and beans is a clear indication that the country is gradually experiencing economic relief.

    According to him, these developments show that Nigeria is moving in the right direction under President Tinubu’s leadership.

    The Director-General therefore urged members and supporters of the group to embark on aggressive grassroots mobilisation ahead of 2026 by sensitising Nigerians on the achievements of the president.

    In his words, “Nigeria is getting better every day under President Tinubu. A bag of rice now sells for between ₦58,000 and ₦65,000. This is a result of the sound economic policies of our president.

    “I urge you all to go out in the new year and work aggressively in your various wards. Go to the grassroots and do your best to preach the achievements of the president to the people.”

    Adojutelegan also assured Nigerians that President Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the security challenges facing the country, adding that the president needs the continued support of citizens to succeed in this effort.

  • Yusuf felicitates Christian community on Christmas

    Yusuf felicitates Christian community on Christmas

    Gov. Abbar Yusuf of Kano State has extended warm felicitations to the Christian community in Kano State and across Nigeria on the celebration of Christmas 2025.

    He described the season as a period of love, sacrifice, unity, and peaceful coexistence.

    In a statement signed by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature, on Thursday, Yusuf said Christmas offered an important opportunity for reflection on the enduring values of peace, tolerance, compassion, and selfless service to humanity.

    He urged Christians in the state to use the festive period to canvass for peace, unity, and collective progress.

    While calling on all the residents to live together in mutual respect and understanding, Yusuf reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting the rights of all the citizens

    According  to him, this is with a view to ensuring an atmosphere where everyone can freely practice their faith in peace.

    Yusuf wished the Christians a joyful Christmas celebration even as he prayed for a peaceful and prosperous New Year for all residents of the state.

    He also advised motorists to strictly observe traffic rules throughout the festive period and beyond to ensure safety on the roads.

    (NAN)