The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Oyetola makes clarifications over Osun LG funding crisis

    Oyetola makes clarifications over Osun LG funding crisis

    • …accuses Adeleke of misinformation

    The controversy over local government funding in Osun State has taken a new turn, as Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of spreading propaganda and falsehoods to mask what he described as administrative failure and disregard for court rulings.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, Akinola said Adeleke’s recent claims over alleged withholding of local government funds were a “desperate attempt to deflect attention from glaring incompetence and serial abuse of the judicial process.”

    He dismissed the governor’s allegation that Minister Oyetola was responsible for any disruption in local government financing, insisting that any delays stem from the Osun State Government’s legal actions.

    According to him, the Adeleke administration had burdened the courts with “frivolous and ill-conceived lawsuits” in a failed bid to overturn settled judicial decisions.

    “No serious government sabotages its own legal standing and then seeks scapegoats for the consequences,” Akinola said.

    He further accused the governor of previously paralysing local government operations by instigating a prolonged strike by council workers, describing Adeleke’s current claim that councils remain inactive as “a blatant falsehood.”

    “The local government secretariats are open and functioning. Services continue to run, workers are back to their posts, and council administrations are carrying out their statutory responsibilities. The narrative of paralysis exists only in the imagination of a governor using falsehood to seek public sympathy,” he added.

    Akinola referenced a Court of Appeal judgement delivered on February 10, 2025, which he said reinstated elected local government chairmen in Osun State. He noted that the judgement was not appealed by the state government and therefore remains final and binding.

    “The continued agitation by Governor Adeleke represents a deliberate refusal to accept judicial authority,” he stated.

    On the tenure of the reinstated chairmen, Akinola maintained that they were elected for a three-year term and were allegedly removed illegally shortly after assuming office.

    He said any contrary claims amounted to ignorance or deliberate misinformation, noting that the issue of tenure is currently before the courts.

    He also cited a Supreme Court ruling of July 11, 2024, which granted financial autonomy to local governments nationwide, affirming their status as an independent tier of government and barring state governors from dissolving elected councils or imposing caretaker administrations.

    “Adeleke should perish the thought of interfering with local government administration in Osun State. The councils are autonomous, lawful, and operational,” he said.

    Akinola also rejected claims that Minister Oyetola was influencing the Nigeria Police, describing the allegations as false and irresponsible.

    “The police operate under established institutional command structures and cannot be privately controlled by any individual minister. Adeleke should stop misleading the public, stop manufacturing conspiracies, and stop whipping up sentiment to cover manifest ineptitude. Governance is not theatre, and Osun people deserve facts, not fiction,” he said.

    He concluded that Osun’s local government administrations remain lawful, autonomous, functional, and protected by binding court judgements, arguing that “the only crisis confronting the system is a governor unwilling to accept legal reality.”

  • NUPRC reaffirms commitment to transparent bid process for 50 oil blocks

    NUPRC reaffirms commitment to transparent bid process for 50 oil blocks

    The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mrs Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan on Wednesday reaffirmed commitment to the transparent process for the 50 blocks in the 2025 Oil Bid Round.

    She declared the commission’s commitment while speaking at a Pre-Bid Webinar organised by the Commission to provide authoritative guidance for companies and investors seeking to participate in Nigeria’s 2025 Licensing Round.

    “The Licensing Round is an open call for committed partners, those ready to invest, bring technology and accelerate Nigeria’s assets from licence award to exploration, appraisal and ultimately, full production,” she said.

    NUPRC had on December 1, 2025, launched Nigeria’s 2025 Licensing Round, which offers 50 oil and gas blocks across frontier, onshore, shallow water, and deepwater terrains for potential investors.

    She said the process was not only about offering an acreage, but an opportunity to participate in a stable, rules-based system that is opening the door to genuine value creation. 

    She explained that the Licensing Round was an open call for committed partners, those ready to invest, bring technology, and accelerate Nigeria’s assets from licence award to exploration, appraisal, and ultimately, full production.

    While stating that the process follows five steps: Registration, Pre-qualification, Data acquisition, Technical bid submission, and Evaluation and Commercial Bid Conference, the CEE noted that only candidates with high technical and financial credentials, professionalism, and credible plans would move forward.

    According to her, winners are chosen through a transparent merit-based process. Adding that with the approval of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, signature bonuses for the 2025 Bid Round are now set within a value-range that reduces entry barriers and places greater weight on what truly matters.

    These, according to her, are technical capabilities, a credible programme, financial strength, and the ability to deliver production within the shortest possible time.

    “This has been done to increase competitiveness and a response to capital mobility,” she added.

    The NUPRC boss also submitted that the bid process would comply with the PIA 2021 and remain open to public scrutiny.

    “Let me state clearly that the bid process will comply with the PIA 2021, promote the use of digital tools for smooth data access, and remain open to public, international, and institutional scrutiny, through partners like NEITI, and other oversight agencies. Indeed, transparency is an integral part of our process,” she said.

    Read Also: NUPRC honours late PENGASSAN president Okoro

    Eyesan said that since December 1, 2025, all licensing materials have been posted on the Commission’s portal, dedicated support channels created to enable prompt response to enquiries from applicants, noting that the pre-bid conference has provided an opportunity to clarify the requirements to promote a transparent, well-informed participation process.

    “To further strengthen the process, today’s Webinar, the first of its kind, aims to clarify bid requirements, and helps you participate effectively before the tender deadline as well. We also invite your questions and feedback to improve the licensing round process and outcomes.

    “In closing, let me emphasize that the Nigerian 2025 Licensing Round is not merely a bidding exercise; it is a clear signal of a reimagined Upstream Sector anchored on the rule of law, driven by data, aligned with global investment realities, and focused on long-term value creation,” she added.

  • Oyo@50: Agbaoye Karim congratulates Makinde, residents

    Oyo@50: Agbaoye Karim congratulates Makinde, residents

    The Agbaoye of Ibadanland, Chief Orikolade Ayodele Karim has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state.

    In a statement, Chief Karim congratulated the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde for the successful organisation of activities marking the state’s golden jubilee, describing the celebration as ‘a significant milestone and a defining moment in the history of Oyo State and our people’.

    According to him, the vision behind the creation of Oyo State 50 years ago was to build a strong subnational entity capable of delivering good governance, fostering unity, and projecting the state’s rich cultural heritage and economic potential to the global community.

    He stated, “I congratulate the Government and the people of our dear Oyo State. The vision of our founding fathers was to create a state that would serve as a model of progress, innovation, and effective subnational governance. Today, Oyo State continues to live up to that vision.”

    Chief Karim highlighted Oyo State’s historic role as a pacesetter state, noting that it is home to several national firsts, including the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier university, as well as other landmark institutions that have contributed immensely to national development.

    He particularly commended the Seyi Makinde led administration for its forward-looking policies and reforms, noting that Oyo State is the first subnational government in Nigeria and Africa to develop and adopt a domestic implementation strategy for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    He described the initiative as visionary and a major step towards positioning Oyo State as a hub for trade, investment, industrial growth, and job creation.

    Chief Karim also acknowledged and celebrated past administrations in the state, both civilian and military, living and departed, thanking them for their service and contributions to the growth and stability of Oyo State.

    He further congratulated the traditional rulers of the state, including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye; the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusohola Alao; the Okere of Saki; and other traditional leaders across Oyo State.

    Read Also: Makinde celebrates Ajetomobi, makes case for impactful leadership

    ‘’I pray for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for them as they continue to guide our people’’

    The Agbaoye went on to celebrate the people and residents of Oyo State, particularly the youth and students, whom he described as the pride and future of the state.

    He encouraged citizens of Oyo State at home and in the diaspora to remain connected to their roots and to actively contribute to the continued development of the state.

    “We are known as the Pacesetter State, we must take our pride and responsibility seriously and continue to live up to our ‘Asiwaju’ position as a people, as echoed in our anthem, ‘Asiwaju ni wa.’ A brighter and more prosperous Oyo State lies ahead.”

    He also extended warm greetings to serving security personnel and public servants in Oyo State, as well as those of Oyo State descent serving in the state, other states and federal levels, commending their dedication and sacrifices in service to the nation and in the maintenance of peace, stability, and good governance.

    He concluded by expressing profound gratitude to the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the continued support and encouragement extended to Oyo State, particularly through the President’s personal attendance at the coronation of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    He wished all residents of Oyo State a peaceful, joyous, and memorable celebration as the state marks its golden jubilee.

  • Tinubu calls for coordinated global action on climate-induced mobility

    Tinubu calls for coordinated global action on climate-induced mobility

    • …says climate change now a major driver of displacement
    • …urges people-centred migration policies

    …highlights Nigeria’s floods, Lake Chad crisis as proof no nation can tackle climate-induced mobility alone

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for stronger international cooperation and people-centred policies to address the rising challenge of climate-induced mobility, describing climate change as one of the most significant drivers of human movement in the world today.

    The President made the call on Wednesday while delivering the opening statement at a special event on Climate-induced Mobility convened under Nigeria’s chairmanship of the Rabat Process.

    The event marked Nigeria’s final official meeting as Chair and brought together senior officials and international partners to deliberate on the nexus between climate change, migration, development and security.

    Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu said hosting the event at this time was both deliberate and symbolic, reflecting Nigeria’s conviction that climate change now has profound implications for peace, security, development and human dignity across Africa, Europe and beyond.

    According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the SGF on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu stressed that for Nigeria, climate-induced mobility is neither distant nor abstract but deeply rooted in the country’s history, geography and lived realities.

    While mobility has traditionally served as a coping mechanism for communities adapting to environmental and economic change, he noted that the scale and intensity of recent climate pressures have fundamentally altered migration patterns.

    According to the President, mobility is not inherently negative and, with sound policies, legal protection and adequate investment, can serve as a legitimate adaptation strategy that enhances resilience and preserves human dignity.

    Read Also: Forest guard approval: NCYP commends Tinubu, urges community-based youth recruitment in Plateau

    Highlighting Nigeria’s experience, President Tinubu recalled the devastating 2022 floods that affected over 4.4 million people and displaced about 2.4 million across more than 30 states, with entire communities submerged, homes destroyed and livelihoods disrupted.

    He added that recurring floods continue to displace populations, placing sustained pressure on host communities and fragile infrastructure.

    The President also cited the Lake Chad Basin, where decades of environmental degradation have undermined fishing, farming and pastoral livelihoods, forcing communities to migrate, as well as Nigeria’s coastline, where rising sea levels and erosion threaten housing and infrastructure.

    Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, he said his administration has shifted from reactive responses to proactive climate disaster preparedness, including the launch of the Global Flood Disaster Management Project to strengthen early warning systems, flood-resilient infrastructure and disaster coordination nationwide.

    He also announced the Climate-Resilient Livelihoods Empowerment Programme for Displaced Populations, a 10-year, $250 million initiative aimed at empowering displaced persons through climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy entrepreneurship, green value chains and targeted women and youth leadership tracks.

    President Tinubu said climate-induced mobility is a transnational challenge that no government can address alone, calling for shared responsibility, strengthened international cooperation and sustained solidarity.

    He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to advancing evidence-based policymaking and inclusive partnerships within the Rabat Process and beyond.

    He thanked Switzerland, the European Union, the International Centre for Migration Policy Development and other partners for their continued support, expressing hope that the discussions would translate into concrete collaboration linking climate action, migration governance and sustainable development.

  • Mass poverty endangering survival of Nigeria’s Democracy — OAU Professor

    Mass poverty endangering survival of Nigeria’s Democracy — OAU Professor

    A professor of the Faculty of Education at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Tajudeen Adewumi Adebisi, has warned that Nigeria’s deepening mass poverty poses a grave threat to the survival of the country’s democratic system.

    The don delivering inaugural lecture titled “Learning from Cradle to Grave: Knowledge and Skills Empowerment for Lifelong Employability and Productivity” at the Oduduwa Hall of Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-ife, contended that widespread economic hardship is eroding citizens’ trust in governance, weakening civic participation and creating fertile ground for instability and authoritarian tendencies.

    He said, “Poverty is not merely an economic condition; it is a threat to the very soul of democracy. When able-bodied citizens cannot meet basic needs, democracy becomes vulnerable to corruption, insecurity, banditry, kidnapping and deep-seated inequality.”

    He traced Nigeria’s present crisis to rapid global changes that have rendered many traditional job pathways obsolete, lamenting the decline of indigenous vocational trades in South-western Nigeria, such as blacksmithing, weaving and carpentry, which were once passed down through generations and sustained local economies.

    Prof. Adebisi observed that the growing preference for white-collar jobs has led to the abandonment of productive crafts, leaving many young people unemployed and exposed to poverty.

    He argued that these vocations could regain relevance and profitability through modernization, digital marketing and integration into formal education curricula.

    He highlighted the dramatic transformation of the workplace, noting the shift from newspaper job advertisements to online recruitment platforms, and from physical shops to virtual markets operating without time limits.

    He stressed the importance of universal work skills, including communication, teamwork, critical thinking, leadership, adaptability, time management and digital literacy.

    He cited the 2003 framework by the North Central Regional Educational Laboratory and the Metiri Group, which identifies four key clusters of 21st-century skills: digital-age literacies, inventive thinking, effective communication and high productivity.

    He also urged employers to embrace lifelong learning policies rather than resorting to layoffs when workers’ skills become outdated, noting that lack of digital competence often leads to subtle exclusion in the modern workplace.

    Prof. Adebisi argued that ending the cycle of poverty requires equitable distribution of resources, inclusive adult education, strong community participation and a national commitment to learning throughout life.

  • Timini Egbuson unveils trailer for ‘Love and New Notes’ film

    Timini Egbuson unveils trailer for ‘Love and New Notes’ film

    Actor Timini Egbuson has released the trailer for his upcoming romantic drama, Love and New Notes, set to hit cinemas nationwide on February 13.

    Timini, on Instagram, wrote, “Every house has its secrets…and love always finds a way out. Love & New Notes In cinemas nationwide February 13.

    “Timini Egbuson @_timini presents love & new notes.”

    Read Also: Timini Egbuson, Dakore lose father

    The film, directed by Kayode Kasum, boasted a star-studded cast, including Sophie Alakija, Odunlade Adekola, Eniola Badmus, and Kamo State.

    Set in 1984 Lagos, the movie explores themes of love, ambition, and relationships against the backdrop of a sudden government-mandated currency change.

    The trailer promises a mix of romance, drama, and suspense, with Timini Egbuson playing the lead role of Boma, a struggling young man.

    Produced by Muyi Banti, Love and New Notes marks another milestone in Timini Egbuson’s rising career, following his previous production credit in the romantic drama Reel Love.

  • Reps seek joint security operations against bandits in Gombe

    Reps seek joint security operations against bandits in Gombe

    The House of Representatives on Wednesday asked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to direct the Chief of Defence Staff to immediately initiate a coordinated Joint Security Operation and provide area surveillance and ground support to flush out the armed bandits terrorising communities in Gombe state and destroy their camps to avoid recurrence.

    The House also asked the Inspector General of Police to immediately deploy Mobile Police Force Squadrons to maintain law and order and provide Mobile Police Force Squadron format in the affected communities.

    In a resolution following a motion of urgent public importance by the Chief Whip, Usman Bello Kumo the House asked the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Northeast Development Commission to immediately provide relief materials to the victims of the attack in communities within Akko Local Government Arca.

    Read Also: Reps seek urgent FG intervention over rising tension between Ondo–Ogun border communities

    While moving the motion, Kumo informed the House of the recent attacks by armed bandits on Garin Galadima, Pindiga, Garin Jaji, and Laro and other communities in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, that resulted in the killing of 6 innocent people, abduction of 20 persons currently being held hostage by the kidnappers, and destruction of properties, thereby causing widespread fear and displacement of citizens from their homes.

    According to o him, these attacks have caused widespread destruction of properties, displacement of citizens, and loss of livelihoods, fear, and uncertainty within the communities.

    He said these incidents are a stark reminder of the overwhelming threat to national security, and a call to all security agencies to double their efforts in ensuring that they provide adequate protection to the citizens and their properties.

    He expressed concern that if no stringent security measures are taken to safeguard the lives of our people in adherence with Chapter 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), particularly Section 14 (2) (8), which clearly states thus: that the set of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

  • African Defence governance seeks expanded security collaboration with Nigeria

    African Defence governance seeks expanded security collaboration with Nigeria

    The International Institute for African Defence, Security and Governance (IIADSGov), based in Washington DC, has expressed interest in expanding collaboration with the Nigerian Government to address the country’s persistent security challenges.

    IIADSGov is an independent Pan-African defence, security and governance training and research institute, with its headquarters in Washington DC and a country office in Abuja for field operations.

    The institute made this known during a courtesy visit to the Chief of Army Staff in Abuja, where discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in defence training, research and capacity building.

    Leading the delegation, the Board Vice President, General Martin Agwai (rtd.) told journalists that the visit was aimed at introducing the institute’s programmes to the Army leadership and identifying areas of partnership that would directly enhance the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.

    Agwai noted that sustained collaboration would boost professional development, intelligence sharing and strategic planning in tackling insecurity nationwide.

    He added that the institute is registered with the United States Department of State and the Department of Defense as a broker and facilitator of defence articles, services and training, in compliance with US laws and international regulations.

    According to him, this status positions the institute to support Nigeria with globally compliant training standards, modern security frameworks and institutional reforms that promote accountability and operational efficiency. Stakeholders believe such partnerships are critical as Nigeria continues to confront insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging security threats.

    The Nigerian Army welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention capable of strengthening capacity building and inter-agency cooperation in the fight against insecurity.

    Experts noted that sustained engagement with credible international partners remains vital to achieving long-term peace, stability and national security across the country.

  • Rivers: NYCN hails Fubara for developmental strides

    Rivers: NYCN hails Fubara for developmental strides

    President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ambassador Sukubo Sara-Igbe Sukubo, on Wednesday commended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, for his dividends of democracy in the state.

    NYCN gave the commendation while felicitating with Fubara on the occasion of his birthday.

    According to a statement issued by Sukubo, “We extend warm felicitations to its distinguished Role Model and the charismatic Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on the occasion of his birthday.

    “This milestone is more than a celebration of another year; it is an opportunity to recognise a life of uncommon service, purposeful leadership, and enduring impact. Governor Fubara’s journey in public service reflects a deep commitment to national development, economic inclusion, and the overall progress of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria at large.

    “Over the past two years, amid man-made political tensions in Rivers State, Governor Fubara has demonstrated exemplary leadership marked by patience, tolerance, accommodation, and peace-building.

    “Beyond these qualities, he has remained resolute and principled—a calm but determined fighter committed to delivering democratic dividends to the people. His leadership approach has strengthened institutions, preserved stability, and reinforced public confidence in governance”.

    Under his stewardship, the youth group said Rivers State has recorded notable progress across key sectors, adding that education has received renewed attention through improved policies and targeted investments aimed at building human capital.

    Sukubo said the health sector has benefited from strategic interventions designed to improve access and the quality of care.

    Read Also: South-south women’s group calls on National Assembly to intervene in Rivers political crisis

    “Agriculture has been strengthened through programmes that support farmers and enhance food security. Youth empowerment initiatives have expanded opportunities for skills acquisition, enterprise development, and employment, reflecting the Governor’s belief in young people as drivers of sustainable development.

    “Collectively, these efforts have contributed to a steady turnaround of the state’s economy, with visible benefits reaching communities across the local government areas.

    These achievements explain why Nigerian youths strongly identify with Governor Fubara’s leadership and vision. His inclusive governance style resonates with the aspirations of young Nigerians who desire fairness, opportunity, and progress.

    “The NYCN, therefore, affirms its unwavering support and solidarity with his administration as it continues to chart a path of development, unity, and shared prosperity.

    “As he marks this special day, the National Youth Council of Nigeria wishes His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, a happy birthday, along with prayers for continued good health, wisdom, divine guidance, and success in all his endeavours”, he added.

  • BREAKING: Business mogul Otunba Adekunle Ojora dies at 93

    BREAKING: Business mogul Otunba Adekunle Ojora dies at 93

    The Ojora family of Lagos has announced the death of its patriarch, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, the Olori Omo Oba of Lagos, who passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at the age of 93.

    The family disclosed that the late elder statesman will be laid to rest in Lagos in accordance with Islamic rites and appealed to the public to remember him in their prayers.

    In a statement signed by Mrs Toyin Ojora-Saraki, the family said Otunba Ojora died “in full submission to the will of Almighty Allah (SWT).”

    “We say Alhamdulilahi for a life well lived, and we submit to the words of Allah: ‘Surely, to Allah we belong, and to Him we shall all return’ (Q2:156),” the statement read.

    Read Also: Tragic as Wilfred Ndidi’s father dies in road crash

    Otunba Ojora is survived by his wife, Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, as well as his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

    According to The Advance of African Capital, the late patriarch, who was born in 1932, began his professional career as a journalist with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in the early 1950s.

    He later joined the United Africa Company (UAC) as an executive in 1962 and rose to become Chairman of the Board of AGIP Nigeria Limited, a position he held from 1971 until the company was acquired by Unipetrol in 2002.

    Otunba Ojora also made notable investments in several foreign companies operating in Nigeria during the 1970s, playing a significant role in the growth of the country’s private sector.

    The family concluded by urging Nigerians to join them in prayer, asking Allah to grant the deceased mercy, peace in the grave, and a place in Aljannah Firdaus.

    Details shortly…