The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Ogun Customs seizes 487 illicit items worth N4.1b in 2025

    Ogun Customs seizes 487 illicit items worth N4.1b in 2025

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, says it seized 487 illicit items, with a total Duty Paid Value(DPV) of N4,130,931,100 billion in various locations of the state in 2025.

    The Area Comptroller, Mr Olukayode Afeni, who made the disclosure at a news conference on Thursday in Idiroko, said the command made the seizures through intelligence-driven operations and the dedication of its officers.

    Afeni said that the command also generated and remitted the total sum of N454,672,406.30 to the federation and non-federation accounts of the federal government respectively.

    “This clearly showed that the revenue profile of the command has significantly increased by about 47 per cent when compared with the collection of N275,835,602.00 in 2024,” he said.

    He reiterated the command’s commitment to surpass its 2025 revenue performance, noting that it had already begun 2026 on a strong footing, as reflected in collections recorded between Jan. 1 and Jan. 28, 2026.

    According to the area comptroller, the command remitted the sum of N106,277,312.00 to the federation account, which is above what was generated same month last year with N89,584,419.00, representing 84.3 percent increment.

    He said that the revenue was achieved through diligent efforts of its officers and the cooperation of compliant traders, as well as collection from baggage assessment, proceeds from the auction sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), import and export.

    Afeni listed the seizures made by the command to include: 22,725 bags foreign parboiled rice, 2,669 kegs (66,725 litres) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,128 red star cartridges, 13,332 parcels of cannabis sativa, and 25 bales of used clothing.

    Others seized items are 4 units of foreign used vehicles, 2,034 pieces of used pneumatic tyres, 12 cartons of Gino tomato puree, 18 bags of 50kg sugar, 1 carton of inhalator insecticide, 4,228 cartons of 10kg Dogs brand spaghetti, and 2,097 kegs of vegetable oil of 25 litres.

    He said that the command also seized 1,315 pieces of Riodin explosives, 11 units of Dane guns, two units of locally made guns, two units of revolver pistol, 27 wraps weighing 28.90kg of crystal Meth, 16 pieces weighing 16kg of heroin and six units of used Boxer motorcycle.

    Afeni said that in line with extant laws and trade guidelines, the command had strengthened its anti-smuggling operations through credible intelligence and sustained collaboration with relevant agencies to enforce government fiscal policies and curb economic sabotage along the borders.

    He commended the Comptroller-General of the NCS, Bashir Adeniyi, for his continuous support, which he said has played instrumental role in achieving these milestones.

    (NAN)

  • Alleged terrorism: Rescued victims filed complaints against Tukur Mamu – DSS Witness

    Alleged terrorism: Rescued victims filed complaints against Tukur Mamu – DSS Witness

    A Department of State Services (DSS)’ investigator, on Thursday, told the Federal High Court in Abuja that many of the rescued victims of the 2022 Abuja-Kaduna train attack lodged complaints against the alleged terrorist negotiator, Tukur Mamu.

    The DSS operative, who testified as 6th prosecution witness (PW-6) in the ongoing terrorism trial of Mamu, made the disclosure to Justice Mohammed Umar while being cross-examined by the defence counsel, Johnson Usman, SAN.

    The lawyer had asked the witness, who gave his testimony behind a witness screen for security reasons, “to confirm to court if any of the rescue victims, including the wife of the Commandant in Jaji, made any complaint against the defendant to the DSS.”

    Responding, the witness said: “Yes, my lord.”

    When Usman further asked the witness if the complaint by the rescued victims was either in writing or oral, he said it was in writing.

    The DSS’ lawyer, David Kaswe, however, prayed the court to restrain Usman from delving into questions that might touch on the identity of victims or witnesses in the case since the court had granted protection to all.

    Responding, Usman told the court that none of the names he called was a witness before the court.

    “Even though my lord had granted an order for trial in camera, a trial in camera is not to prejudice the defendant,” he said.

    The witness said he interviewed six victims in the course of the investigation.

    Read Also: ‘Why we charged Sowore over false claim against Tinubu,’ by DSS

    When he was asked if the six victims were interviewed in the presence of Mamu, the PW-6 responded in the negative.

    The witness told the court that he was not a vocologist, having not studied sound in higher institution.

    He, however, confirmed that the audio exhibit tendered by the prosecution was the extract of the transcribed audio between Mamu and the terrorists.

    When he was asked if he interviewed a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (retd.), he said the army chief was not interviewed.

    The witness, however, admitted that General Abdulkadir Abubakar was interviewed in the course of investigation.

    “When you interviewed him, was it in the presence of the defendant?” the lawyer asked and he said: “No my lord.”

    “Did you interview Sheikh Gumi?” Usman asked and the witness responded in the affirmative.

    “Was it in the presence of the defendant?” Usman asked.

    “No my lord,” the witness responded.

    “Did you interview Major General Idris Garba?”

    “No my lord,” the PW-6 said.

    “Did you interview General Jalingo?” the lawyer asked, and he said: “Yes, my lord.”

    The witness said Gen. Jalingo was not interviewed in Mamu’s presence.

    “Finally, did you interviewed Hannafi of Defence Military Intelligence,” the lawyer asked and the witness responded in the negative.

    “Confirm to court, whether at any time in the course of your investigation, you brought members of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Committee for interview in the presence of the defendant,” Usman asked and the witness responded in the negative.

    “Please confirm whether you are aware that the defendant has requested that you brought members of the CDS Committee face to face with him for interview,” the lawyer asked and the witness said: “Yes, he did.”

    “Confirm whether the request of the defendant to have the CDS and others involved gathered together for interrogation was granted,” Usman asked, and the witness said:”No, my lord.”

    When Usman asked the witness to confirm that Mamu told him that he is a publisher of a newspaper and magazine, the witness said: “Yes, he said so.”

    When the lawyer asked the witness to confirm that Mamu told him his means of income was derived from his journalism business, the PW-6 said: “Yes, he claimed ”

    “As investigator, did you investigate this claim,” the lawyer asked.

    “Yes, we did,” he responded.

    After the cross-examination, Kaswe told the court the prosecution’s intention to close its case.

    “So that we can allow the defendant to enter his defence if they are ready,” he said.

    But Usman told the court that they would rather apply for a date to open their defence, .

    “We will not file a no-case submission so that the world can see it and God can see it all,” he said.

    Justice Umar then adjourned the matter until April 23 for Mamu to open his defence.

    (NAN)

  • Oborevwori felicitates ex-Delta SSG Agas at 66

    Oborevwori felicitates ex-Delta SSG Agas at 66

    Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has congratulated the former Secretary to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, on the occasion of his 66th birth anniversary.

    In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, the governor described Agas as a consummate leader whose contributions to the growth and development of Delta State have been profoundly impactful and enduring.

    Oborevwori praised the Oteri-Ughelli–born journalist, lawyer, and former Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly for his exemplary public service record, noting that his leadership roles at various levels of government were marked by dedication, competence, and integrity.

    Read Also: Go tough on criminals, Oborevwori charges new Delta CP

    He said, “On behalf of the government and people of Delta State, I salute a great leader, Rt. Hon. Festus Ovie Agas, on the occasion of his 66th birth anniversary.

    “His contributions to the growth and development of our dear state remain commendable and worthy of celebration.”

    Governor Oborevwori prayed for continued good health, wisdom, and strength for Agas, wishing him many more years of fruitful service to Delta State and Nigeria at large.

  • Patjeda Group boss urges stronger CSR to stem youth migration

    Patjeda Group boss urges stronger CSR to stem youth migration

    …set to scale up back-to-school initiative’s scope

    Chief Ehiagwina Patrick, Group Managing Director of Patjeda Group, has said effective corporate social responsibility (CSR) by private sector organisations could help reduce the growing migration of Nigerian youths in search of better opportunities abroad.

    Speaking on Wednesday at a policy dialogue on Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development in Nigeria, Patrick called on companies to strengthen their CSR initiatives, particularly in education, security, and skills development.

    The event, organised by PATJEDA Group, focused on how structured social investments can support sustainable national growth.

    Patrick said enhanced CSR efforts could create jobs, build youth confidence, and encourage young Nigerians to pursue opportunities within the country. She stressed that CSR should move beyond philanthropy and be strategically aligned with sustainable development goals to deliver long-term impact.

    She urged corporate organisations to adopt structured and long-term CSR frameworks, align social investments with national priorities, and prioritise measurable impact over publicity.

    Patrick also called for stronger collaboration between the private sector, government, and civil society groups to design programmes that empower youths and restore confidence in Nigeria’s economic prospects.

    Many young Nigerians, she noted, leave the country due to limited access to education, employment, skills development, and economic empowerment, adding that deliberate and well-targeted CSR programmes could help address these challenges.

    “There are children who have embraced hooliganism and drug abuse due to a lack of support to attend school or develop skills; therefore, it is necessary for companies to prioritise CSR for national development.

    “This led PATJEDA to develop the back-to-school initiative, which empowered no fewer than 300 pupils in 2025, and we look forward to empowering 500 pupils in 2026.

    “This will be extended to Anifowose Primary School in Ikeja, Ikoyi-Ekiti community in Ekiti State, and other strategic locations.

    “Our educational CSR focuses on scholarships, bursaries, school support initiatives, and assistance from primary to tertiary levels. We will also invest in our “Feed the Widows Initiative in Ikeja,” she said.

    Patrick said it had become imperative to view CSR as a structured, value-driven tool for development and not as charity.

    According to her, this is necessary at a time when Nigeria is grappling with complex socio-economic challenges, ranging from youth unemployment, gaps in access to education, infrastructure deficits, and food insecurity.

    She said, “CSR must evolve from token gestures and isolated donations into strategic, sustainable, and people-centred interventions that align with national development priorities and measurable outcomes.

    “CSR, when properly designed, strengthens communities, de-risks environments, and builds long-term social capital.

    “To ensure sustainability, accountability, and focus, Patjeda Group’s CSR initiatives are driven through two dedicated foundations: Patrick Ejedawe Empowerment Foundation and Heart of Gold Support & Care Initiative.

    “These foundations operate as non-commercial, impact-focused platforms, allowing CSR activities to be community-responsive rather than publicity-driven.

    “In December, Patjeda Group intervened in making the Uromi axis of the Agbor–Auchi expressway, a federal road in dire need of palliative measures, motorable. This improved economic activity along the corridor.”

    Mr John Ighodalo, Executive Director of Corporate Services and Finance, Patjeda Group, in his opening remarks, urged corporate organisations to focus on policy alignment, scalability, and transparency to ensure that CSR initiatives become truly impactful.

    “In Patjeda Group, we view and treat CSR as a social capital expenditure and not as an administrative expense.”

    Also, the Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Mr Akeem Dauda, appreciated the company for its lasting impact on the community, describing it as the top contributor to local development.

    Dauda acknowledged Patjeda’s contributions, particularly in the areas of security and education.

    He noted that, given the significant challenges facing the council, he hopes for further support from the group to extend its assistance.

    Meanwhile, Oba Ogundana Akinwande, Onikoyi of Ikoyi-Ekiti, lauded the significant impact of Patjeda’s CSR initiatives, noting that he had personally benefited from them both as a retired police officer and as a traditional ruler.

    Patjeda Group is a Nigerian-owned conglomerate with diversified interests spanning: Transportation and Logistics, Hospitality and Tourism, Oil and Gas, Security Support Services, Courier and Integrated Services, Retail, Agriculture, Education, and Business Solutions.

    Since its incorporation in 2007, the group has expanded operations across Lagos, Aba, Abuja, Benin, Uromi, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Enugu, and Kaduna, contributing to employment generation, service delivery, and regional economic inclusion.

  • Firm appoints UB of Lagos as brand ambassador

    Firm appoints UB of Lagos as brand ambassador

    One of Nigeria’s leading fashion brands, Okechi Stores, has officially unveiled popular actor, model, influencer, and content creator Ubong Frank, widely known as UB of Lagos, as its brand ambassador.

    The endorsement agreement was formally signed today at the company’s corporate office in Ajah, Lagos, marking a significant milestone in Okechi Stores’ strategic brand expansion.

    Describing the partnership as a defining moment for the company, the management of Okechi Stores noted that the endorsement signals the beginning of a new era of growth, increased visibility, and excellence for the brand.

    Speaking on the development, the Chief Executive Officer of Okechi Stores, Chijioke Ifeanyi Nnanna, expressed excitement over the collaboration, describing it as a long-awaited vision brought to life.

    “This is a huge dream come true for us. We have closely monitored Ubong Frank, popularly known as UB of Lagos, for six months. What stands out most is his genuine passion for the fashion industry, his consistency, and his strong influence. These values align perfectly with our brand philosophy, which informed our decision to endorse him. We are confident that he will help take Okechi Stores to the next level,” he said.

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    In his response, UB of Lagos praised Okechi Stores for its commitment to quality, durability, and excellence, noting that the brand possesses the attributes required to compete on a global scale.

    The endorsement deal, valued at 15 million naira, covers a six-month ambassadorial engagement.

    “Okechi Stores is a brand with immense quality and potential. It focuses on beauty and quality, not just quantity, and its products are durable. These are the reasons I am proud to be associated with the brand. I strongly believe that within the next six months, Okechi Stores will become a household name, not only in Nigeria but across Africa,” he stated.

    He further emphasized the brand’s consistency and readiness to expand its market presence, adding that such dedication positions Okechi Stores for long-term success across the continent.

    The endorsement is expected to significantly strengthen Okechi Stores’ market presence while reinforcing its reputation as a fashion brand committed to innovation, quality, and excellence.

  • ‘NIPetE’s oil and gas symposium must drive strategic energy conservation’

    ‘NIPetE’s oil and gas symposium must drive strategic energy conservation’

    • …stakeholders call for innovation-driven energy ecosystem

    Nigeria’s energy future must move decisively beyond crude dependency toward value-driven, innovation-led growth, the national chairman of Nigerian Institution of Petroleum Engineers (NIPetE), Dr Yetunde Aladeitan, has said.

    Aladeitan, an Associate Professor of Petroleum Engineering, who also doubles as the Director, Energy Research Center at the University of Abuja, gave the advice while hosting the 2026 NIPetE Oil and Gas Symposium in Abuja.

    As chair of NIPetE, an association that has increasingly positioned itself as a thought-leadership hub where policy, engineering, and investment intersect, Dr. Aladeitan said her current position has given her an insight into what she described as ‘a promising future’ of Nigeria’s oil and gas.

     She, however, urged stakeholders to follow the global trends in the oil and gas sector, where global best practice is not compromised.

    The high-level virtual symposium, themed “Beyond the Barrel: Tax Reforms, Value Chain Optimization, and the Future of Nigerian Energy,” brought together leading engineers, policymakers, fiscal experts, and industry stakeholders to interrogate Nigeria’s evolving oil and gas landscape and explore sustainable pathways for long-term value creation.

    Chairman of the occasion and President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Ali Alimasuya Rabiu, represented by the deputy president, Valerie Agberagba, described the symposium’s theme as both timely and critical, stressing that Nigeria must urgently move away from over-dependence on crude oil revenues.

    He called for an innovation-driven, diversified energy ecosystem anchored on sound fiscal policies, gas development, and value-chain efficiency.

    Delivering the keynote address, Abudukerimu Sule, speaking on behalf of Mr. Momoh J. Oyarekhua, provided deep insights into the investment opportunities embedded in the Nigeria Tax Act 2025, highlighting how tax reforms can stimulate upstream efficiency, attract foreign and local investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global energy market.

    A robust panel session followed, featuring respected industry experts including Ehimhen Okoh-Agunloye, Dr. Bukola Olusola, Mr. Adesola Adebawo, Mrs. Eyono Fatai-Williams, and Mr. Abayomi Abiona.

    Read Also: Reps seek govt’s intervention in Ondo, Ogun communities’ oil field dispute

    Discussions spanned critical areas such as gas transition strategies, upstream and midstream optimization, fiscal incentives, and the role of engineering innovation in driving sustainable energy development.

    Beyond the depth of conversations, the 2026 symposium reflected Dr.Yetunde Aladeitan’s long-held conviction that Nigeria’s energy future must move decisively beyond crude dependency toward value-driven, innovation-led growth.

    The calibre of participation—including the NSE President, seasoned policymakers, and industry practitioners—underscored the growing stature of NIPetE under her stewardship. More importantly, the conversations were not theoretical. They were practical, forward-looking, and solution-oriented, focusing on how fiscal reforms like the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 can be translated into actionable engineering and investment pathways.

    From strengthening midstream and downstream investments to unlocking gas-led industrialization, the symposium mirrored Dr. Aladeitan’s leadership philosophy: bridging policy with practice and turning national reforms into measurable industry outcomes.

    An accomplished academic and industry professional, Dr. Aladeitan continues to combine mentorship, policy influence, and institutional leadership. Through platforms such as the NIPetE symposium, she remains committed to nurturing the next generation of petroleum engineers while actively shaping the strategic direction of Nigeria’s energy ecosystem.

    As Nigeria navigates economic reforms, global energy transitions, and shifting investment dynamics, one reality stands clear: the future belongs to leaders who understand both the science and the strategy of energy. In Aladeitan, Nigeria has such a leader—driving conversations, shaping outcomes, and quietly engineering the nation’s energy future with clarity and impact.

  • Hussein faults ADC leadership, berates Aregbesola over ‘undemocratic’ comments 

    Hussein faults ADC leadership, berates Aregbesola over ‘undemocratic’ comments 

    A former senator who represented Osun West at the Senate, Mudashiru Hussein, has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing the party as lacking cohesive leadership, a clear structure, a defined ideology, and a long-term political organisation.

    Hussein also berated the ADC’s National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, over his recent assertion that the defection of governors would not influence President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election prospects or the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s chances in the 2027 general elections.

    Aregbesola had earlier referenced the APC’s performance in Lagos State during the 2023 elections, projecting a similar outcome nationwide in 2027.

    Reacting in a statement, Hussein, a former ally of Aregbesola in Lagos and Osun states, described the former governor’s remarks as an attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democratic process.

    He said, “The claim by the ADC National scribe is selective in interpretation and detached from the historical and practical realities of Nigeria’s political evolution. The sanctity of the people’s vote remains non-negotiable; it is intellectually dishonest to strip elections of the roles played by leadership, structure, ideology, and long-term political organisation, which ADC lacks.

    “Democracy thrives on the will of the people, but that will is shaped, mobilised, and protected by credible political leadership. To suggest otherwise is to oversimplify a complex democratic process.”

    Read Also: ADC tasks Oyegun, Utomi, Lukman with policy, manifesto

    He noted that the progressive movement was never built on spontaneous popularity but on years of grassroots engagement, policy-driven governance, and disciplined party organisation.

    “These elements were central to electoral successes recorded across different levels of government over the years. National elections are decided by aggregate national confidence, not by fragmented local outcomes. Leadership at the centre is earned through vision, experience, and the ability to build broad coalitions across the country, like our mentor Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu had led the tendency which produced us.”

    Husain further argued that governors and political leaders do not merely control votes, but play strategic roles in stabilising party systems, mobilising citizens, and sustaining democratic institutions, which are roles that cannot be dismissed without undermining the very system that produced past electoral victories.

    The erstwhile NPC federal commissioner concluded by urging political leaders and commentators to avoid revisionist narratives and instead focus on deepening democratic culture through constructive engagement, institutional respect, and commitment to the collective political journey that has shaped modern governance in Nigeria.

  • Why Cavista Holdings’ investment in Matna Foods matters for Nigeria’s cassava economy

    Why Cavista Holdings’ investment in Matna Foods matters for Nigeria’s cassava economy

    The recent acquisition of Matna Foods Company Limited by Agbeyewa Industries Limited, an agribusiness subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, represents a strategic intervention in Nigeria’s cassava value chain—one that goes beyond ownership change to address long-standing structural gaps in production, processing, and industrial utilization.

    Cassava is one of Nigeria’s most abundant and strategic crops, yet the sector has historically suffered from weak integration between farming and processing, leading to inefficiencies, post-harvest losses, and limited value capture for farmers.

    Cavista Holdings’ investment in Matna Foods is designed to help close this gap by linking large-scale cassava cultivation with established industrial processing capacity, creating a more resilient and efficient value chain.

    Through Agbeyewa, which operates Nigeria’s largest cassava farm, Cavista Holdings has built a strong production base and an innovative in-grower/out-grower scheme that brings thousands of farmers into a reliable, well-organised supply network.

    Matna Foods brings over two decades of processing experience and technical expertise in producing international-standard cassava starch for food and industrial use. Together, they form an integrated platform capable of stabilising supply, expanding processing capacity, and reducing reliance on imports.

    Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, said the investment reflects Cavista’s long-term approach to value creation:

    “Cavista has a strong history of identifying under-utilised or distressed assets and repositioning them for sustainable growth. The iconic Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort (which was transformed from an abandoned resort into the best holiday resort in Nigeria) is proof of our ability. Our investment in Matna Foods follows this same discipline—strengthening capacity, improving efficiency, and creating jobs, jobs, jobs.

    This is how we build businesses that deliver real economic impact while supporting food security and industrial development.”

    Beyond processing, the acquisition is expected to have a direct impact on farmers by increasing cassava offtake, providing more predictable demand, and strengthening rural livelihoods, especially for smallholder and out-grower farmers across the Southwest.

    Importantly, Matna Foods remains fully operational and open for business, with plans underway to scale capacity, modernise operations where required, and deepen engagement with farmers, suppliers, and industrial customers.

  • FUTA alumnus expands food venture, launches eatery in Akure

    FUTA alumnus expands food venture, launches eatery in Akure

    A graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Sheriff Oluyinka Omoleke, has expanded his food business with the launch of a new 24-hour Chikini Monie outlet in Akure, Ondo State, as part of efforts to deepen market penetration and meet growing demand for flexible dining services.

    The new outlet, located at Agape Junction, Akure, is positioned to serve students, residents, travellers, transporters, and night-time consumers, tapping into the city’s expanding urban economy.

    Speaking at the unveiling, Omoleke, a 2013 graduate of Forestry and Wood Technology of FUTA, said the business model was driven by demand-led expansion and job creation.

    He said his entrepreneurial journey began while he was an undergraduate, starting with a small printing business before diversifying into laundry services and later into the fast-food sector.

    The Chief Executive Officer of Chikini Monie and Abula Backyard explained that the food business formally commenced operations in October 2024, with its first outlet located at FUTA South Gate.

    According to him, the expansion strategy also includes Abula Backyard, a sister brand focused on indigenous African cuisine, introduced to broaden the company’s product offerings and strengthen brand diversification.

    “I started my business when I was a 400-level student in FUTA, and I have diversified from the printing business into a laundry service.

    When I finished my NYSC service year in Offa, I diversified into laundry, and from there, I was able to diversify into an eatery, which is the fast food business, which was on the 28th of October, 2024.

    Read Also: FUTA don seeks demystification of mathematics in schools

    “Firstly, we opened at FUTA South gate, but today we are commissioning Chikini Money, which is a branch after that, and I have also created another brand, which is Abula Backyard, the one that deals with the African cuisine,” he said.

    Omoleke disclosed that the business, which started with an initial capital of N7,000, has so far generated over 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain.

    “I have always loved to be an entrepreneur. So, being an entrepreneur has always been in my blood, and I have a passion for it. I don’t really see whether being Nigerian is safe or not. I want to do business, and I believe I’m going to thrive in the industry.

    “One of our most measurable impact indicators is job creation. To date, Chikini Monie has generated over one thousand direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain. Beyond statistics, these numbers translate to livelihoods sustained, families supported, and young people empowered with dignity and purpose.

    “In 2025, we further expanded our portfolio with the introduction of Abula Backyard Restaurant, reaffirming our commitment to indigenous cuisine, cultural identity, and strategic brand diversification,” he said. 

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Olu Ajanaku, described the venture as a strong example of youth-driven enterprise and resilience, urging policymakers to create a more enabling environment for small businesses.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Signage and Advertisement, Mr. Yomi Oyekan also encouraged youths to pursue entrepreneurship with consistency and courage.

    The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who commissioned the outlet, commended the entrepreneur for contributing to local economic growth and job creation.

  • Amotekun denies accidental discharge, gunshot injuries at Owo training ground

    Amotekun denies accidental discharge, gunshot injuries at Owo training ground

    The Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, has denied reports alleging that an accidental discharge involving its State Commander at a training ground in Owo led to gunshot injuries to five personnel.

    Reports circulating on social media had claimed that an incident occurred on Monday at the Amotekun New Recruitment Training Ground in Owo, where an alleged accidental discharge reportedly left four serving officers and one newly recruited personnel seriously injured.

    The reports further alleged that the incident was caused by an accidental discharge from the firearm of the State Commander of the Amotekun Corps, Chief Adetunji Adeleye.

    However, in a statement issued on Thursday, the Corps described the report as false, misleading, and a gross misrepresentation of facts.

    In the statement, signed by the Amotekun state spokesperson of the Corps, Mr Jimoh Adeniken, said that at no time did the state commander accidentally or otherwise discharge a firearm, nor was he involved in any incident that resulted in gunshot injuries.

    Adeniken also explained that on January 26, 2026, the Amotekun Corps only conducted a routine range classification exercise as part of the ongoing training programme for newly recruited personnel at the Amotekun New Recruitment Training Ground in Owo.

    Read Also: Amotekun intercepts coal-laden truck

    According to him, the exercise was successfully concluded without any casualties.

    “At no time did the Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, discharge a firearm accidentally or otherwise, nor was he involved in any incident leading to gunshot injuries.

    “On January 26, 2026, the Corps conducted a routine range classification exercise as part of the ongoing training for newly recruited personnel, which was successfully concluded without any casualties.

    “The false narrative being circulated is deliberately sensationalised and intended to undermine the image of the Corps and the security architecture of the state,” the statement read.

    The Amotekun Corps, however, reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rule of law in the discharge of its duties, assuring residents of the state of the safety of its personnel and the general public.