The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • 2026: APC vows to reclaim Osun as Yilwatda presents CoR to Oyebamiji

    2026: APC vows to reclaim Osun as Yilwatda presents CoR to Oyebamiji

    Ahead of the August 2026 Osun State governorship election, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, has declared that the party will stop at nothing to reclaim the state for the progressive family.

    Yilwatda made the declaration on Friday shortly after presenting the Certificate of Return (CoR) to the party’s governorship flag bearer, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, at the APC national secretariat in Abuja.

    Speaking to journalists after the presentation, the APC chairman assured Oyebamiji of the party’s full backing, pledging unwavering support to both the candidate and the people of Osun State until victory is secured at the polls next year.

    According to him, the party is prepared to stand with the people of Osun “neck to neck, leg to leg,” from now until election day, with the aim of achieving a decisive and convincing victory. He stressed that the goal is not just to win, but to do so beyond any reasonable doubt.

    Yilwatda added that the APC would mobilise all its resources, capacity, and strength to ensure success, noting that the party is returning to Osun State with renewed vigour to campaign and work tirelessly ahead of the election.

    He also commended the eight other governorship aspirants for embracing the consensus arrangement that produced Oyebamiji as the party’s sole candidate for the 2026 governorship contest.

    “We just minted a brand new candidate for the 2026 Osun state governorship election. It was by consensus, which is unique compared to all other political parties, where the nine candidates come together and pick one of them to represent them in the general election.

    “It shows the level of symbiosis and the good relationship between the aspirants, which we know the candidate is going to carry everybody along, not just in the primary election, but also in the general election, and also in governance.

    Read Also: Osun APC begins reconciliation drive after Oyebamiji’s emergence as guber candidate

    “So we are proud and happy to announce that Bola Oyebamiji will be the sole candidate of APC in that election.”

     Accompanied by the APC Osun State Chairman, Hon. Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, the party’s flag bearer, assured the people of the state of his readiness to take the mantle of leadership from the incumbent “dancing government” in the state

    “The business of governance is a serious business. And we have a lot of human assets. We have a lot of material assets in the state of Osun. And we need a serious manager to drive that asset. And that serious manager is Bola Oyebamiji.”

    He further said that with the party’s ticket, he was sure of victory both in 2026 and during the 2037 general elections.

    “Now that I have the ticket, we are going to carry that mandate come 2026 and 2027. We are going to deliver Osun. We are going to deliver to the president in that election,” Oyebamiji assured.

  • Ondo Deep Sea Port will serve as a global trade hub, says Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo Deep Sea Port will serve as a global trade hub, says Aiyedatiwa

    • …after initial error, state now get full operating licence from FG

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has said the proposed Ondo Deep Sea Port will serve as a major hub for international trade, benefiting not only Ondo State but Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa stated this in Abuja after receiving the revalidated operating licence for the port from the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Chief Adegboyega Oyetola. 

    The licence, originally approved in 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, was resubmitted for revalidation following errors discovered in the original document.

    Recall that earlier this year, Governor Aiyedatiwa attributed the delay in the execution of the project to an error in the name on the operating licence issued by the federal government.

    According to him, the licence was wrongly issued in the name of one of the project’s prospective partners instead of Ondo Port Development Limited, the actual licence holder representing the state and its investors.

    “There was an error made when the Ondo State Deep Sea Port licence was issued. Ordinarily, it should have been issued in the name of Ondo Port Development Limited, but it was erroneously written in the name of one of the partners.

    “Because of that, we had to initiate processes to correct the error, which meant virtually starting all over again due to the procedures involved. The analysis changed over time, and we had to go through the process afresh.

    “Right now, we are at the stage of correcting that error and opening up opportunities for more investors to partner with us. I can assure you that Ondo State Deep Sea Port Limited has come to stay. It is a port that will benefit not only Ondo State but all Nigerians,” the governor had said.

    The proposed port is located in the Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State and occupies a landmass of 2,771.2 hectares. The site also includes an industrial city with Free Trade Zone status.

    Receiving the revalidated licence at a brief ceremony at the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy on Thursday, Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the federal government for fast-tracking the revalidation process.

    Addressing journalists after the ceremony, he said the state government was fully prepared to commence the project, describing the port as a gateway to international commerce.

    He noted that such a strategic infrastructure could not be restricted to state-level usage, adding that it would support industries, businesses, and the national economy.

    The governor explained that the port is designed to serve businesses across Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries, boasting a natural draught of about 18 metres.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa’s wife urges parents to prioritise children’s education

    According to him, the depth would enable very large vessels – bigger than those currently operating in Lagos ports – to berth easily, thereby eliminating the need for trans-shipment.

    Aiyedatiwa, however, added that beyond facilitating cargo movement, the project would stimulate economic activities, attract investors, and boost hospitality services in the state once construction begins.

  • BREAKING: Former Delta Senator Peter Nwaoboshi dies at 68

    BREAKING: Former Delta Senator Peter Nwaoboshi dies at 68

    Former Senator who represented Delta North Senatorial District, Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, has died.

    As of the time of filing this report, details surrounding the circumstances of his death had not been made public.

    However, reacting to the development, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the former lawmaker, describing his death as a great loss to Delta State, the Anioma nation, and Nigeria.

    In a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor said Senator Nwaoboshi was a proud son of Delta State and a fearless advocate of the Anioma cause whose contributions to national development would not be forgotten.

    Governor Oborevwori recalled Nwaoboshi’s impactful service in the National Assembly, where he served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, noting that his strong advocacy for the development of the Niger Delta and Delta State set him apart as a committed and passionate leader.

    He said the late senator’s political rise was anchored on a rich political pedigree, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals, adding that he also served meritoriously as a two-time Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

    According to the governor, Senator Nwaoboshi devoted his life to the service of his people, his party, and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty, and dedication to public service.

    Read Also: ACP dies on duty in Ebonyi

    “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the passing of my dear friend, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi,” Oborevwori said.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Anioma nation, members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, and all those whose lives he touched.

    “I pray that Almighty God grants his soul eternal rest and gives his family, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

    Details shortly…

  • Mother who sold baby, fake drinks producer, drug dealer arrested in Delta

    Mother who sold baby, fake drinks producer, drug dealer arrested in Delta

    The Delta State Police Command has arrested a woman who staged a robbery report to conceal the sale of her two-month-old baby, a fake drink producer, and a suspected drug dealer.

    The arrests were confirmed in a statement signed by SP Bright Edafe, Police Public Relations Officer.

    The woman, identified as Rita Ughale of Kokori in Ethiope East council area, had claimed her baby was snatched during a tricycle robbery and reported the matter at Ekpan Police Division on December 15.

    However, inconsistencies in her account led to further interrogation, and the complainant later confessed that the robbery was staged and that she had sold her baby for N1.5 million to Osas Omijie (39) and Judith Omijie (30). The suspects were arrested, and the infant was rescued unharmed.

    In a related development, operatives of the Eagle Net Special Squad, Ughelli, on December 14, 2025, arrested a 67-year-old woman, Lydia Osanebi, at her residence in Otor-Edor, Ughelli, for allegedly producing counterfeit dry gin.

    Items recovered included suspected methanol, formalin, cochineal, packaging materials, seals, stickers, super glue, and over 60 litres of adulterated dry gin. The suspect reportedly confessed to engaging in the illegal activity for over 20 years.

    Meanwhile, operatives of the CP–Special Assignment Team arrested one Felix Africa, 44, in the Gana area of Sapele on December 18, 2025. Eight bags of weeds suspected to be Indian hemp were recovered from his residence.

    The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives, property, and public health, urging residents to avoid illegal activities and report suspicious movements to the police through the Control Room contact: 0803 668 4974.

  • Oborevwori mourns Senator Peter Nwaoboshi

    Oborevwori mourns Senator Peter Nwaoboshi

    Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator representing Delta North Senatorial District, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi, describing his death as a great loss to Delta State, the Anioma nation, and Nigeria at large.

    Governor Oborevwori, in a condolence message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, said Senator Nwaoboshi was a proud son of Delta State and a courageous defender of the Anioma cause whose contributions to nation-building would remain indelible.

    The Governor recalled the late senator’s impactful service at the National Assembly, where he chaired the Senate Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, noting that his voice and advocacy for the development of the Niger Delta and Delta State stood him out as a committed and passionate leader.

    He said Senator Nwaoboshi’s political journey and rise to prominence were anchored on a rich political pedigree, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy, which also saw him serve meritoriously as a two-time Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Delta State.

    According to the governor, the late lawmaker devoted his life to the service of his people, the party, and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of courage, loyalty, and dedication to public service.

    Governor Oborevwori said, “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I mourn the passing of my dear friend, Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi.

    “I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the people of Anioma nation, members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress, and all those whose lives he touched.

    “I pray that Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, friends, and associates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

  • Town Planner Alabi Ebo unveils book on Kwara’s urban planning journey

    Town Planner Alabi Ebo unveils book on Kwara’s urban planning journey

    Tpl. Alabi Qazeem Amuda, popularly known as Alabi Ebo, has launched his book titled ‘Efforts Towards Urban and Regional Planning Optimum Practice in Kwara State’, which documents the development of urban and regional planning practice and governance in the state.

    Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, Amuda is a seasoned town planning professional with decades of experience in public service. He joined the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners in 1989, became a Registered Town Planner in 1992, and was elevated to Fellow of the Institute in 2010.

    Throughout his distinguished career, he served as Secretary of the Kwara State Land Use and Allocation Committee (1993–1999), Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Town Planning and Development Authority (2003–2007), and Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Kwara Chapter (2005–2007). He later held key administrative roles as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands and Housing (2007–2011) and the Ministry of Works and Transport (2011–2016).

    He currently serves as Executive Secretary of the Ilorin Central Jummat Mosque.

    The book examines planning laws, institutions, and physical development schemes implemented in Kwara State since its creation, while offering recommendations to strengthen physical planning and development control.

    Read Also: Book on Obalu Quarter, Efon unveiled

    Amuda highlights the need for comprehensive physical development plans, improved planning laws, better implementation of the Land Use Act, stakeholder participation, adequate funding, strict compliance with planning permits by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, and adherence to professional ethics and the National Building Code.

    The book presentation, held at the Kwara State Library, Ilorin, attracted stakeholders from the built environment and public service sectors.

    Speaking at the event, Colonel Theophilus O. Bamigboye (rtd.), former Military Administrator of Bauchi and Osun States, described urban planning as the backbone of development and warned against indiscriminate land-use changes. He commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON) for ongoing urban renewal efforts in the state.

    Arc. Mohammed Jimoh Faworaja, former President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects and the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria, described the book as an invaluable professional resource and urged built-environment professionals to engage with its contents.

    The Chief Launcher, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, National President of NACCIMA, represented by Mr. Soji Fagbemi of Lubcon, advised young professionals to emulate the author’s dedication to service.

    The Rector of Kwara Polytechnic, Engr. Abdul Jimoh Mohammed pledged that copies of the book would be added to institutional libraries, while the reviewer, Tpl. Abdulfatai O. Anofi described the work as a rare and comprehensive documentation of urban and regional planning efforts from the pre-colonial era to the present.

    Dignitaries at the event included former and serving public officials, professionals from the built environment, community leaders, and members of various professional and social organizations. The Planning Committee was chaired by Tpl. Yinka Giwa, while Mrs. Ramat Akanni anchored the event.

  • Uba Sani boosts teachers’ welfare, extends retirement age to 65, approves rural allowance

    Uba Sani boosts teachers’ welfare, extends retirement age to 65, approves rural allowance

    In a decisive move to strengthen the education sector and reward professional dedication, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has approved enhanced service conditions for teachers across the state.

    With effect from 1 August 2025, the mandatory retirement age for teachers has been extended from 60 to 65 years, while the maximum years of service have been increased from 35 to 40 years.

    In addition, teachers posted to rural and hard-to-reach communities will now receive a special rural posting allowance.

    The approval aligns with the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers in Nigeria Act, 2022, enacted by the National Assembly, which exempts teachers from the general public service retirement threshold of 60 years or 35 years of service, in recognition of their critical role in national development.

    The Honourable Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, said the decision reflects Governor Uba Sani’s firm commitment to improving workers’ welfare and revitalising the education sector.

    He noted that the Governor considers experienced teachers central to delivering quality education and sustaining learning outcomes across the state.

    “This policy is designed to honour years of dedicated service, retain invaluable experience in our classrooms, and motivate greater productivity for the benefit of our children and the future of Kaduna State,” Maiyaki said.

    A circular conveying the approval has been issued by the Office of the Governor and signed by the Permanent Secretary (Establishment), Mrs. Felicia I. Makama, directing all relevant institutions to comply.

    The circular adds that detailed implementation guidelines will be issued by the State Civil Service Commission in due course.

    Governor Sani expressed confidence that the policy will boost teacher motivation, improve retention, and significantly raise educational standards across Kaduna State, reinforcing his administration’s broader commitment to strengthening public institutions and investing in human capital development.

  • FEC approves ₦58.47trn 2026 Budget, amends MTEF

    FEC approves ₦58.47trn 2026 Budget, amends MTEF

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) on Friday approved the ₦58.47 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill, alongside an amendment to the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) earlier passed by the two chambers of the National Assembly.

    The FEC approval cleared the way for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to present the budget proposal to a joint session of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

    President Tinubu convened an emergency meeting of the Council at the State House, Abuja, to consider a single-item memorandum on the 2026 budget estimates ahead of their formal presentation to the National Assembly.

    Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Dr Tanimu Yakubu, said the approved 2026 budget has an aggregate expenditure of ₦58.47 trillion, representing a six percent increase over the 2025 budget estimate.

    According to Yakubu, the total expenditure framework includes projected spending by government-owned enterprises (GOEs) amounting to ₦4.98 trillion, as well as ₦1.37 trillion earmarked for grants and donor-funded projects.

    Statutory transfers are estimated at ₦4.1 trillion, while debt service obligations are projected at ₦15.52 trillion, including ₦3.39 trillion set aside for the sinking fund to retire maturing local debts owed to contractors and other creditors.

    Personnel costs, including pensions, are projected at ₦10.75 trillion, representing a seven per cent increase over the 2025 provision.

    This figure includes ₦1.02 trillion allocated to government-owned enterprises. Overhead costs are estimated at ₦2.22 trillion.

    The budget proposes a capital expenditure of ₦25.68 trillion, which is 1.8 per cent lower than the 2025 capital provision.

    Yakubu explained that the marginal reduction reflects a more conservative approach to capital planning, with emphasis on completing ongoing projects and ensuring value for money.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Tinubu presents ₦58.18trn 2026 budget to National Assembly

    He said capital allocation priorities include ₦11.3 trillion for ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), ₦2.05 trillion for multilateral and bilateral loan-funded projects, and ₦1.8 trillion representing the capital component of the development levy.

    Yakubu noted that the 2026 budget was designed to strike a balance between macroeconomic stabilisation and development imperatives within the medium-term fiscal framework.

    He said the underlying assumptions were conservative and realistic, particularly with respect to oil price, exchange rate, and dividends from government-owned enterprises.

    On the revenue outlook, the Budget Office boss said projected revenues are expected to decline year-on-year, but stressed that non-oil revenues now account for about two-thirds of total government receipts, confirming a structural shift away from oil dependence.

    He identified corporate income tax, value-added tax, customs duties, and independent revenues as the main fiscal anchors.

    He added that growth in expenditure is being driven largely by debt servicing, wages, and pensions rather than discretionary expansion, while the projected fiscal deficit reflects structural pressures rather than policy loosening.

    According to Yakubu, financing of the deficit will rely primarily on domestic borrowing, complemented by concessional loans from multilateral development institutions.

    Also speaking after the meeting, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, disclosed that the council simultaneously approved an amendment to the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, leading to consequential adjustments in the size of the 2026 budget.

    Bagudu said the amendment involved a downward revision of the exchange rate benchmark used in the framework, from ₦1,512 to ₦1,400 to the dollar, a change he said had implications for the overall fiscal projections.

    “This afternoon, the Federal Executive Council considered the 2026 Budget proposal that is going to the National Assembly, as well as an amendment to the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), which we propose — a revision downwards of the exchange rate from ₦1,512 to ₦1,400 and the consequential changes in budget size,” the minister said.

    According to him, FEC approved both the amended MTEF parameters and the revised 2026 budget estimates, effectively clearing the way for the formal presentation of the appropriation bill to lawmakers.

  • Ooni, Raji, Akande, others honoured with fellowship awards at Poly Ibadan’s 40th Convocation

    Ooni, Raji, Akande, others honoured with fellowship awards at Poly Ibadan’s 40th Convocation

    The Ooni of Ile-Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Ahmed Raji, and Dr. Olajide Babatunde were among the distinguished Nigerians recognised with fellowship awards on Thursday at the 40th convocation ceremony of The Polytechnic, Ibadan.

    The honourees were celebrated for their significant contributions to the advancement of education. The ceremony, held at the institution’s 1,000-capacity hall, also drew notable personalities, including former Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Chairman Prof. Adeolu Akande, President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) Ajeniyi Ajewole, and University of Ibadan Vice Chancellor Prof. Kayode Adebowale.

    Speaking on behalf of the other awardees, the Ooni, describing the polytechnic as his foundation, expressed gratitude for the recognition. He urged graduating students to remain steadfast in their faith, work diligently, stay focused, and maintain a forward-looking mindset, while always honouring their alma mater.

    In a gesture of encouragement, the monarch announced a N5 million reward for the best graduating student, along with additional prizes for outstanding graduates across various departments and faculties.

    Represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde affirmed that education remains a key priority for his administration.

    He highlighted that when the government assumed office six years ago, budgetary allocations to education ranged between 17 and 21 per cent, but deliberate measures have since been taken to strengthen the sector and improve outcomes at all levels.

    “We are fully aware of the manpower challenges facing tertiary institutions, including The Polytechnic, Ibadan. That is why the government has continued to address staff shortages through regular recruitment and capacity-building initiatives to ensure effective teaching and learning.

    “The state government is working hand in hand with the management of this institution to reposition it for global competitiveness. Our goal is to ensure that graduates of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge required to compete favourably anywhere in the world.

    “The world will not wait for anyone. Therefore, our students must be prepared, innovative, and forward-thinking to meet the demands of a rapidly changing global environment.”

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Acting Rector of the institution, Dr. Taiwo Lasisi, said a total number of 1,514 National Diploma (ND) students, spread across five faculties, and 2,879 Higher National Diploma (HND) students across five faculties, and the best graduating student, who accumulates 3.87 CGPA are graduating at the event.

    He stated that none of the graduands is graduating without learning a skill, so that without government employment, many of them will be able to establish themselves as well as becoming employers of labour.

    Lasisi urged the federal government to turn all Polytechnics into Degree awarding institution with BTech as its focus, noting that this will end the disparity issue among Polytechnic and University graduates.

    He said China, a few years ago, converted over 200 Universities to polytechnics because the nation recognizes the impact of Polytechnics on its development

    “The United Kingdom that colonized Nigeria and brought western education to us ended the disparity issue among Polytechnics and Universities by turning all its Polytechnics to degree awarding institutions.”

    He noted that history will not forget those at the helm of affairs in Nigeria if the decision is taken, urging Governor Makinde to kickstart the evolution of turning Polytechnics into Degree awarding with The Polytechnic, Ibadan.

    Meanwhile, the overall best graduating student, Basirat Yusuf, thanked the management of the institution for creating an enabling environment that promotes excellence.

    She, however, used all the graduands to use the skills and knowledge acquired while in school for the upliftment of society.

  • Ugborodo community protests alleged neglect by Chevron

    Ugborodo community protests alleged neglect by Chevron

    Residents of the riverine Ugborodo community in Warri Southwest council area of Delta State have protested against Chevron Nigeria Limited over alleged neglect, marginalisation in employment, and failure to implement provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

    For the second day in a row, the protesters occupied Chevron facilities, vowing not to vacate the premises until top management of the company and the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) visited Ugborodo to see their plights.

    They called on the Federal Government to intervene.

    The protesters, made up largely of youths and elderly persons, displayed placards with inscriptions such as: “Ugborodo demands her 70% direct chevron slots,” “Chevron JV and EGTL belongs to Ugborodo community,” “Follow community local content law,” “Chevron EGTL PITSTOP please employ our indigenes,” “EGTL PITSTOP project must recognise Ugborodo as host,” and “Federal and State Govt come to our aid.”

    Addressing journalists, the Chairman of Ugborodo Management Committee, Mr Emmanuel Onuwaje, said the community had endured decades of neglect despite hosting Chevron’s operations.

    “We are not going anywhere to have a meeting with them, we will stay here till they come. We are appealing to the Federal Government to prevail in the issue,” he said.

    Secretary-General of Itsekiri National Youth Council (INYC), Raymond Pira, decried deepening poverty in the midst of oil wealth.

    “In this (Chevron) yard, thousands are working, but there has been complete neglect of the Ugborodo community. No jobs, no contracts. They pay us less than those brought from outside; they call them Lekki workers. They bring people from outside in droves to work here, and we are not employed. Chevron has to employ us; we need a blue badge and direct employment.

    “We are calling on the management of Chevron over the issue of the PIA to implement the Ikpere Host Community Development Trust.

    “Chevron is contravening the Local Content Act, which provides some employment percentage for us. We are saying that until they attend to us, we are not going to leave here.”

    The National President of Ugborodo Youths, Wilson Ejeh, and his vice, Victor Laju Udonju, also spoke in the same vein.