The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Ogun Central stakeholders drum support for Adeola

    Ogun Central stakeholders drum support for Adeola

    A group in Ogun Central, MATA YAYI, has said that Senator Olamilekan Solomon Adeola has demonstrated over time that he meant well for Ogun State in general and its people, and appealed to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and other political leaders to support him to join the 2027 governorship race in the state.

    The said Adeola’s track record of urban and rural development initiatives across Ogun three senatorial districts, despite being a Senator representing Ogun West, are attestation to greater things he would do to uplift the state if supported to serve the whole state.

    Its convener, Chief Adeyinka Taiwo, disclosed that Yayi has good intentions for the people of Ogun, and vowed to mobilise grassroots support for him if All Progressives Congress(APC) gives him its governorship ticket, adding it would also boost the APC’s standing and chance in Ogun.

    The appeal was made in Ifo Local Government, where community leaders, political leaders, and others called on Adeola to vie for the gubernatorial seat in 2027.

    In a communique issued and signed by Hon. Chief Adeyinka Taiwo, the Sobaloju of Agbado Kingdom, Ogun State, and convened by the Mata Yayi Group, highlighted the need for Adeola to contest the Ogun State governorship in 2027.

    Adeyinka posited that the justification for the endorsement is embedded in Yayi’s giant strides in achievements in infrastructure, politics of benefits, education empowerment programs, and others across the state.

    He said: “The people of Ifo local government, the men, women, young people, traditional leaders, and stakeholders, do solemnly and publicly call on our dear Ogun State son, Sen. Adeola Olamilekan YAYI, to show interest in contesting the Ogun State Governorship in 2027.”

    “Over the years, and through the statecraft of successive administrations in Ogun State, development and governance have been concentrated in the ethnic area of the particular governor. This governance behaviour has undermined the integral development of Ogun State as a state of interdependent groups with a shared vision. However, since his foray into Ogun State politics, Sen. Adeola Olamilekan YAYI has demonstrated competence, capacity, and passion for inclusive governance, which is visibly and evidently seen across the entire senatorial districts in Ogun State, even though he is currently serving as senator of Ogun West, one of the three senatorial districts in Ogun State.”

    “Our public call is not a mere call of rhetoric but a call with determination to deliver this mandate, hoping that he heeds our call. We have well over 30,000 registered voters with an addition of more than 10,000 newly registered, prepared and ready to vote in the 2027 election. We have also set up a committee saddled with the commitment of identifying those who have never voted and converting them to willing voters,” he posited.

    Read Also: Akobo calls for redefinition of universities’ role in Nigeria’s emerging economy

    “We hereby, with all respect and honor, appeal to our dear president, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu; the national leadership of our dear party; our indefatigable leader of APC in Ogun State; our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; our political patriarch, Aremo Olusegun Osoba; all former governors of Ogun State in our dear party; and the entire government and political personalities and structure in our dear party, APC, to graciously back our public call for Sen. Adeola Olamilekan Yayi as Ogun State Governor in 2027.”

    In the same development, he also called on President Bola Tinubu to enhance security architecture in the country, to prevent saboteurs from dragging Nigerian democracy into the mud.

    He posited that Tinubu’s efforts are yielding results in the economy of the country, which is not giving the saboteurs joy, yet they tend to destroy his reelection bid.

    “We want to categorically appeal to our great leader, sage, and political father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to consider a reelection bid in 2027. Since May 29, 2023, Nigeria has won a new and positive aspiration and a new agenda, and it is no doubt now set on a path of renewed prosperity.

    “This has not come without its challenges, but our dear president, Bola Tinubu, working tirelessly to solve them, must be ready to sacrifice another four years for service to Nigeria,” the group stated in a communique to buttress their points in a comprehensive overview.

  • Oyo poll: Why Agbaje is the APC’s comeback strategy

    Oyo poll: Why Agbaje is the APC’s comeback strategy

    By Olatunde Sanu

    As Oyo State warms up for the 2027 election, the political atmosphere is thick with familiar currents — alignments, realignments, whispers of ambition, and renewed calculations among the key players. Within the All Progressives Congress (APC), the question that looms large is not whether the party will field a candidate, but whether it will field the right one.

    After two election cycles marked by internal disunity and avoidable losses, the APC in Oyo must now make a defining choice — between repeating the politics of personality and embracing the politics of purpose. And in this delicate balance stands one man whose temperament, loyalty, and consistency make him not just a viable option, but the party’s most strategic path to redemption: Akeem Agbaje.

    A candidate prepared, not paraded

    Unlike many perennial aspirants whose presence is sustained by noise or controversy, Akeem Agbaje’s political journey has been marked by quiet preparation and steady engagement. He has maintained cordial relations across party lines, nurtured genuine friendships within the APC family, and remained faithful to the party even when others abandoned it in moments of turbulence.

    Agbaje’s political persona is refreshingly distinct — calm yet firm, accessible yet principled, grounded yet visionary. He represents the breed of politicians who build trust not through slogans but through quiet consistency and service. In a state fatigued by endless political feuds, this steadiness offers the APC an invaluable advantage.

    The underdog factor: lessons from history

    Political history, both within and beyond Nigeria, abounds with stories of “underdogs” who rose from perceived obscurity to change the course of their nations. They were not the loudest or the most financially endowed, but they possessed integrity, patience, and a deep connection to the people.

    In Edo, Adams Oshiomhole turned his labour activism into political capital, dislodging entrenched interests through grassroots engagement. Olusegun Mimiko achieved a similar feat in Ondo, breaking the PDP’s stronghold as Nigeria’s first Labour Party governor — powered by trust and persistence rather than what we call ‘structure’ in Nigerian politics.

    Internationally, Barack Obama’s improbable ascent to the American presidency in 2008 remains the ultimate underdog story — a triumph of discipline and message clarity over political establishment. Emmanuel Macron of France shattered decades of two-party dominance with a centrist movement built on renewal and trust. William Ruto of Kenya, mocked as the “hustler,” defied elite structures to capture the presidency in 2022. Justin Trudeau of Canada resurrected a fading party through authenticity and empathy.

    The thread that binds them all is clear: when the political environment is clouded by cynicism, the people often turn to those who embody integrity, humility, and quiet strength.

    In Oyo today, that figure is Akeem Agbaje.

    Oyo’s political temperament and the need for balance

    The people of Oyo are politically discerning. They reward intellect and sincerity, not theatrics. From the days of Chief Obafemi Awolowo to the legacies of Lam Adesina and Abiola Ajimobi, Oyo’s political culture has always gravitated toward leaders who are grounded, humane, and administratively prepared.

    Read Also: Akobo calls for redefinition of universities’ role in Nigeria’s emerging economy

    The PDP’s present dominance is not necessarily a reflection of ideological superiority but rather of the APC’s internal disharmony and failure to rally behind a unifying face. That unity will not emerge from the usual power blocs or flamboyant aspirants, but from a bridge-builder who commands respect without division.

    Akeem Agbaje has maintained relationships across factions, avoided the bitterness that often defines party primaries, and cultivated goodwill among the grassroots. These qualities make him not just acceptable but broadly electable — the exact kind of figure capable of healing old wounds and rekindling confidence in the APC’s progressive ideals.

    Choosing credibility over controversy

    If the APC is serious about reclaiming Agodi Government House in 2027, it must resist the temptation to reward noise over substance. The people of Oyo are weary of recycled controversies. They yearn for a new face of politics — one that represents credibility, composure, and competence.

    Fielding a divisive or elitist candidate again would be an act of self-sabotage. But choosing Akeem Agbaje would symbolize renewal — a return to the politics of character over chaos.

    Agbaje’s record of loyalty to the APC, his scandal-free image, and his deep connection to the ordinary people of Oyo position him as a rare candidate who can unify the party and appeal to the electorate beyond partisan boundaries.

    The calm before victory

    Political victories are seldom the product of noise; they are earned through trust. In Akeem Agbaje, the APC has before it a man who embodies the discipline of preparation, the patience of loyalty, and the humanity of service. He represents the archetype of the disciplined underdog — the man who, though underestimated, becomes the people’s consensus.

    If the APC truly desires to return to power in 2027, it must look beyond the loud and the lavish, and choose the calm, credible, and consistent.

    For Oyo APC, Akeem Agbaje is not just a candidate — he is the comeback strategy.

    • Sanu, a commentator, wrote from Ibadan, Oyo State

  • ‘Zone governorship seat to Kwara North in 2027’

    ‘Zone governorship seat to Kwara North in 2027’

    Kwara North monarchs have urged political parties in the state to zone their governorship tickes to the senatorial district during the 2027 elections.

    They insisted that it is the turn of the district to produce the next governor.

    The monarchs under the aegis of Kwara North Council of Chiefs and Obas, said this at a meeting to deliberate on the prevailing security situation in Kwara North region.

    The meeting took place at the palace of Etsu Patigi, who is the Vice Chair of the council, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II.

    The engagement’s theme was: “Kwara North Unity, Security and Way Forward – Project 2027.”

    The communique at the end of the engagement signed by Etsu Bologi, Emir of Lafiagi, Muhammed Umar Kudu Kawu, Emir of Kaiama Alhaji Muazu Shehu Omar (Kiyaru iV), Etsu Tsaragi: HRH Alhaji Aliyu Abdullahi  Kpotwa, Emir of Okuta Alhaji Abubakar Aliyu Serobeteye, Emir of Ilesha Baruba Alhaji (Prof) Halidu Abubakar and Oba of Jebba Oba Abdulkadir Adebara.

    They said: “that in the spirit of fairness, equity, and justice, it is the rightful turn of Kwara North to produce the next governor of Kwara State in 2027.”

    They identified unity as the strongest tool for achieving this aspiration, urging stakeholders to set aside past differences and work together in the collective interest of the region.

    The communique also “resolved that alliances must be built with Kwara Central and Kwara South, and that advocacy be extended beyond the state—particularly to Abuja, national party leadership, and other critical political actors.

    “The priority at this stage is ensuring that political parties zone their governorship ticket to Kwara North, and stakeholders committed to supporting the processes and ultimately the Kwara North candidate who emerges.

    “Deliberations and consultations are ongoing to ensure that Moro Local Government produces at least one National Assembly member in the 2027 elections.

    “Community leaders and residents were reminded to prioritise voter registration and collection of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to strengthen the region’s electoral advantage.”

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Google releases Nigeria’s 2025 Year in Search

    On insecurity, the communique “expressed sincere appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for their ongoing efforts and support in addressing national and sub-national security challenges, particularly those affecting Kwara North.”

    The communique added: “The meeting called for sustained and concerted efforts from the Federal, State and Local Governments to ensure that terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements are flushed out of our forests.

    “The meeting noted with deep concern the rising security challenges across Kwara North, including attacks leading to loss of lives, closure of markets and schools, and disruption of economic activities.

    “It was resolved that security is a collective responsibility, and communities must provide only accurate and truthful information to security agencies.

    “The act of harbouring criminals was strongly condemned. Communities were urged to expose informants and collaborators aiding bandit activities.

    “The meeting recommended the establishment of a unified and well-coordinated security architecture for all five Local Government Areas of Kwara North, to be supervised by the respective LG Chairmen.

    “Vigilantes and forest guards should be adequately empowered, trained, and equipped with the necessary logistics, considering their superior understanding of the local terrain.”

  • How international status for Akwa Ibom Airport signals economic take-off

    How international status for Akwa Ibom Airport signals economic take-off

    By Ibas Emmanuel

    When Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno stepped off his flight at the Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, on Thursday, the moment carried more than the routine ease of arrival. It marked the dawn of a long-anticipated economic turning point for the oil-rich but increasingly diversified state. Only hours earlier, the Federal Government had granted the airport full international status, setting the stage for Akwa Ibom to connect directly with the global aviation, trade and tourism ecosystem.

    For Governor Eno, the approval represents years of quiet advocacy, strategic alignment and patient negotiation coming to fruition. Speaking with journalists at the airport, he did not conceal his satisfaction, even as he maintained the measured tone that has become his leadership signature. “For this region, trade will be enhanced. Tourism will be boosted. Jobs will be created,” he said. “Flights will land directly here. There will be a whole lot of economic activities for the good of our people and our state.”

    Originally inaugurated in 2009, the Victor Attah International Airport has for more than a decade served as Akwa Ibom’s primary air gateway. Despite its impressive runway, modern terminal design and strategic location in Uyo, the airport largely operated domestic routes, connecting the state to Lagos, Abuja and a handful of other Nigerian cities.

    The limitation, according to analysts, was never infrastructure alone, but status. Without international clearance, the airport could not receive or process foreign carriers or operate cross-border flights. That bottleneck is now decisively removed.

    On November 27, 2025, the Federal Government officially approved the airport for full international flight operations, authorising it to serve as a direct gateway linking Akwa Ibom to destinations outside Nigeria. The approval followed a high-level meeting between Governor Eno and the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, underscoring the importance of federal-state collaboration in unlocking major infrastructure milestones.

    The implications of the upgrade are significant. International airports are not merely transit points; they are catalysts for commerce. For a state positioning itself beyond oil dependency, direct global access translates into easier export of goods, import of technology, and smoother movement of investors.

    Akwa Ibom’s comparative advantages are well-known: fertile agricultural belt, expanding manufacturing base, a peaceful social climate, and a growing hospitality and leisure sector. Until now, however, investors and tourists often had to route through Lagos or Port Harcourt before making the final domestic hop to Uyo. That inconvenience, Governor Eno noted, is about to end.

    “With this region, trade will be enhanced and tourism will be boosted,” he said, emphasising that international flights will land directly in Uyo, stimulating a web of economic activities ranging from logistics and hospitality to retail and professional services.

    Tourism, in particular, stands to gain. Akwa Ibom’s beaches, cuisine, festivals and emerging leisure resorts are already gaining national attention. Direct international access could place the state firmly on the West African tourism map, attracting visitors from the diaspora and beyond who seek convenience, security and cultural depth.

    One clear beneficiary of the new status is Ibom Air, the state-owned carrier that has steadily built a reputation for reliability and service quality within Nigeria. Governor Eno noted that the airline is “favourably positioned” to expand its operations and partner with international carriers now that the airport enjoys full global clearance.

    “Our airline stands favourably to expand its operations and partner with other international airlines to choose here as part of their business routes in Nigeria,” the governor said, framing the development as the culmination of deliberate efforts to build an aviation ecosystem rather than a single infrastructure win.

    For Ibom Air, international status means opportunities for code-sharing, regional routes across Africa, and potentially long-haul connections that would place Akwa Ibom on international flight schedules. Beyond commercial benefits, such expansion promises job creation for pilots, engineers, cabin crew, ground staff and allied service providers.

    Governor Eno’s comment that he prefers “working behind the scenes to achieve results” offers insight into how the approval was secured. Unlike high-profile political campaigns, aviation certification requires technical compliance, regulatory engagement and sustained federal cooperation.

    “You know how long we have been pursuing this status for our airport,” he admitted, reflecting on what many observers describe as years of incremental progress. For Eno, alignment with the centre became a strategic necessity rather than a political slogan.

    The international airport approval, he explained, reinforces why Akwa Ibom needed to collaborate closely with the Federal Government to unlock development opportunities of national scale. Such alignment, analysts say, reduces bureaucratic friction and accelerates approvals in sectors that remain federally regulated.

    Read Also: Seyi Tinubu, others hounoured at 9th African Giants Award, Face of Art Nigeria Beauty Pageant

    Beyond aircraft landings and take-offs, the most tangible impact of the airport upgrade will be felt on the ground. International operations demand expanded customs, immigration, cargo handling, security, hospitality and transport services. Each layer generates employment and skills transfer.

    Local businesses like: hotels, car hire services, logistics firms, restaurants, tour operators, stand to benefit from increased traffic. For young people, particularly those trained in aviation-related disciplines, the internationalisation of the airport signals new career pathways closer to home.

    Governor Eno underscored this point when he spoke of jobs and economic activities multiplying across the state. For a government focused on inclusive growth, the airport’s new status fits neatly into broader plans to diversify revenue streams and reduce unemployment.

    While the approval is already official, full international flight operations are expected to commence no later than the first quarter of 2026. That timeline, according to aviation experts, allows for final certification steps, airline scheduling, personnel training and operational testing.

    For Akwa Ibom, the months ahead will be critical. Infrastructure upgrades, service readiness and global marketing will determine how quickly the state converts status into sustained traffic. But confidence remains high, driven by the airport’s existing facilities and the administration’s stated commitment to results over rhetoric.

    As Governor Eno summed it up, “By the grace of God, all of this is coming together for our good.” In that statement lies both gratitude and quiet determination. With the Victor Attah International Airport now a recognised global gateway, Akwa Ibom stands poised at the threshold of a new economic chapter, one where trade, tourism and talent can flow freely between the state and the world.

    •Ibas Emmanuel, writes from Uyo, Akwa-Ibom

  • Let us stop this blame game and get serious

    Let us stop this blame game and get serious

    By Femi Osunro

    A few days ago, I saw a video in the Social media where a man was insulting our female football players in a bus in Switzerland by calling them terrorists and shameless athletes from a terrorist Country. Some of the football players reacted furiously to the assailant who kept telling them that if they dared assault him, he would get them arrested by the police. I was nearly moved to tears by the embarrassment and humiliation these young lasses were subjected to due to no fault of theirs. However, I was very much impressed by the wonderful show of patriotism by these young Nigerians as they also continued to resist the intimidation and stood their ground.

    No doubt, such an ugly incident was apparently brought about my the recent declaration of Nigeria as a Country Under Watch by President Donald Trump of USA who claimed that Christians were being subjected to genocide and kidnapping in Nigeria. He even went further to threaten that he would order American troops to invade Nigeria to liberate Christians from the Islamic Insurgents. At first, when President Trumps made the allegation, I thought that it was a mere diversionary tactic to ease the pressure on his Administration which was facing unprecedented bashing from various fronts in USA. Indeed, to many Americans and some other watchers of the situation in that Country, America had never had it so bad. Many are even asking the question – “how did America get to this sorry pass?”

    At present, USA is facing crises in various fronts viz the immigration policy of Donald Trump which has spiraled out of hand, the incessant shootings of students in their Schools; the “unconstitutional” invasion by Federal troops into some States without their consents/invitation, thus leading to many Court cases challenging these constitutional breaches, the on-going agitations for the release of the ‘Epstein Files’ on the live and escapades of Jeffery Epstein, a convicted felon who was a bossom friend of Trump for years before he was eventually arrested, jailed and later committed suicide in prison. Despite the attempts of Trump Administration, the call for the release of the Epstein files had refused to die down and indeed it is threatening the very foundation of Trump Administration. There is also the spate of indictment of some Legal Officers of some States by the Trump Administration which are being contested in various Courts of Law across the United States. On top of all these is the case of the longest shut-down of Government in the history of United States which had caused various disruptions in the lives of Americans notable of which is the non-payment of salaries of some essential workers of the Federal Government. The list of various problems confronting Trump’s Administration is quite long. Indeed, things had gone so bad for Donald Trump that some media organisations like the MSN are now calling him unprintable names while some even question his state of mind and thence his competence to govern the ‘largest democracy’ in the world. Things have gotten so bad for Trump that his assessment rating had been on a downward spiral for quite sometime and this has even been validated by the recent losses of his party – The Republican Party – in some Mayoral elections. In essence, to say that Donald Trump is in the worst crisis of his political life will be an understatement. With all these, my initial reaction to Trump’s allegation of genocide against Christians in Nigeria was that this was a usual recourse of Trump to diversionary tactic to shy away from the multi-dimensional problems of his Administration. At the time of his claim, there was nothing to support that there was genocide against Christians in Nigeria. What we had substantially was the case of romping bands of brigands who were attacking and kidnapping people randomly for monetary gains or for sadistic and satanic reasons.

    However, and to my utter bewilderment many Nigerian especially some politicians seized the opportunity of Trump’s claim to start bashing the Federal Government of Nigeria for failing to put an end to the spate of banditry as if it just started under the Administration. In essence, some saw the “development” as failure of Government and governance. Such actions tend to validate the assertion of Trump while some were even calling on Trump to, as he threatened, come and save Christians from Islamic genocide. To me, such positions were grossly unpatriotic. While one grants  Trump the right to continue to make his weird outbursts e.g. threatening to annex Canada as the 51st State of USA etc., I expect our people to question Trump’s right to be a judge in our affairs as a sourverign country. Also, I expected people to declare to Trump that “physician, heal thyself.” But trust Nigerian politicians -they will do anything to discredit any Government in power to get themselves enthroned in the saddle. To the opposition parties, they hardly saw anything good about the Government in power. However and unfortunately, their motive had always been to seize power at all possible means and not that they have any better plan for Nigeria.

    Be that as it may, I think that it is high time that we sat down to take a deep reflection of our situation in this country about this sudden upsurge in cases of abductions solely targeted at Christian establishments and organisations. Some pertinent questions need to be asked – Is this development a deliberate act by the enemies of Nigeria, both inside and outside our shores – to get a reason to discredit and possibly push out the present Administration? Is there any possible foreign interest in all these meant to truncate the independent chatting of a new foreign policy direction by the present Administration to look beyond its traditional allies for support and collaboration? Is anybody or country being threatened by the emerging loss of pre-eminent relationship, with Nigeria? Is this a ploy to call the “dog a bad name to destroy it”. One cannot but ask such questions with the disturbing escalation of deliberate and concentrated attacks on Christians organisations in some parts of the Federation. As the Yoruba people will say – EJO LOWO NINU!!. I had always had this knack that kidnappers were being sponsored by some “businessmen” who were using them to make easy money. Or how else do you explain the fact that most of those who had been captured / arrested as kidnappers did not look like people who have seen or counted hundreds or thousands of Naira not to talk of millions that were said to have been paid to them as ransoms.

    In the face of all these, I think that we, Nigerians, should now start to think seriously about how to put an end to the escalating insurgency and save our country from an impending catastrophe, which, at the end, will not do anybody any good. That is why I am now calling on our people to start thinking of and taking concrete steps to stem this horrifying trend of kidnapping etc. This is not an attempt to defend Government’s position on this issue. The Government already has a plethora of media and advertisement gurus who can do this. All the same, it is most unfair if not unreasonable to put all the blame of the persistent insurgency on Government alone. We all have a role to play to save our country from this looming disaster which the insurgents and their backers/collaborators want to impose on us.

    Read Also: Shettima, governors, commissioners, others meet in Abuja to tackle Nigeria’s education crisis

    That is why I expect our religious leaders to start praying to God to put to shame these insurgents and their sponsors before they destroy this Country or plunge all of us into hardship and severe disruption. For example, our Christian adherents should remind our Heavenly Father of His unfailing declaration that the wiles of the devil shall never prevail against the Church. I am also amused by some religious leaders pleading with Trump to come and ‘save’ Nigeria. What about what they are teaching us in our Churches that we should not look up to man but to God who is our Refuge in times of trouble. Why not pray to God who turned the “Counsel of Ahithophel to foolishness” to intervene in our affairs and expose, punish, frustrate the efforts of the evil machinations of the insurgents and their sponsors? And what about the prayer that God should “trouble our troublers”. In essence, the trouble is not with our stars but with ourselves that we are still struggling under the oppression of these insurgents. Why don’t we pray to take back our Country from insurgents. What of the spiritualists who claim to have ‘powers’ to do and undo? They should now come out and use their ‘power’ against these enemies of our Country. After all, we all have no other Country to call our own. What about our local communities especially the vigilante groups. We all have to be much-more watchful and pro-active to expose these agents of the devil, who are residents in our area, before they destroy us.

    This is no longer of a question of us and them i.e. the citizens on one part and the Government on the other. We should never be in doubt that any Government, however well-intentioned cannot put an end to this kind of insurgency on its own as, to me, it appears to be sponsored, encouraged and sustained. No doubt, the Government has to do much more to put an end to the ugly trend but the truth must be told, Government cannot do it alone. It needs the support, prayers, cooperation and active participation of the citizens to confront these agents of the devil. After all, even if we recruit more security agents in large numbers, they cannot be at all places at the same time particularly in such a large Country as Nigeria with its many rural communities some of which are barely accessible by motorable roads.

    Personally, the most-disturbing phenomenon of the activities of the insurgents is that they are debarring those who had worked tirelessly over the years for the good of this Country to have peace of mind, move freely within the Country and enjoy their advanced years. May the Good Lord save us and confront those who are disturbing our peace and comfort. Any weapon fashioned against our dear Country Nigeria will never flourish and God will surely heal our Land.

    I see myself as a Patriot of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and I am a passionate lover of good governance. But I want to remind all us that a people get the type of Government they deserve. To salvage this Country from the present menace imposed on us by these insurgents, all hands must be on deck to take back our Country. Now is the time to stop the blame game and chart “the way forward” to save our dear Country. A word is enough for the wise.!

    •Femi Osunro, a retired Permanent Secretary, resides in Ibadan.

  • Foundation to address SCD, others

    Foundation to address SCD, others

    New foundation to address Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) has been  launched.

    A statement by Founder, Festus Okechukwu Ogbu, said the foundation, named after his daughter who died from SCD, will help  patients suffering from SSC, SCD, and arthritis.

    “It is a devastating disease and that is why we are establishing a foundation to create awareness about SSC, SCD, and arthritis. Besides SCD, which many know, the state of awareness for others is low, perhaps only about 20 per cent.

    Read Also: Shettima, governors, commissioners, others meet in Abuja to tackle Nigeria’s education crisis

    “The foundation will create awareness and sensitise people on how to avoid being victims. Doctors will share their experiences and educate people on factors that predispose people, especially children, to these illnesses,” he said.

    Ogbu recalled that his family benefited greatly from an NGO during his child’s travails, adding he is inspired to also extend that same love to those who passing through such situation.

    “Our foundation will organise regular forums for public education and will also donate drugs to hospitals to help patients in need,” he added.

  • New revenue system to stop leakages, boost transparency

    New revenue system to stop leakages, boost transparency

    Federal Government has launched a technology-driven revenue system, Revenue Optimisation and Assurance Project to redefine how we track, collect, and manage finances.

    It also launched Federal Treasury Receipt to provides a single, standardised, and digital proof of payments into Federal Government account.

    FTR ensures that every issued receipt corresponds to funds paid into government accounts.

    The initiative was championed by Federal Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with Office of Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), and Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).

    At the presentation during the 31st National Economic Summit in Abuja, Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthen fiscal responsibility through innovation and technology.

    He described REVOP as a cornerstone of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reform, which focuses on stabilisation, recovery, and growth.

    The minister noted that the imitative ‘represents a unified effort to safeguard every kobo of public revenue through innovation, automation, and accountability, by bringing all revenue under a single, technology-driven framework that promotes transparency and fiscal discipline’.

    Edun added that REVOP was created to ‘identify, collect, reconcile, monitor, and protect government revenues across all Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and Federal Government-Owned Enterprises (FGOEs)’.

    He said: “It is our determination to make sure we bring in every single penny. There’s government money lying outside the TSA, lying outside of the Central Bank, and it requires enforcement, consensus, and the right use of technology”.

    Read Also: FG to expand social protection to cover 60m Nigerians in informal economy

    Designed to implement the Central Billing System (CBS) of the government which became operational on October 1, REVOP allows for instant reconciliation of government payments, giving public finance managers real time visibility of transactions.

    Other aspects of the initiative include the Revenue Splitting Engine, Treasury Management System, and Revenue Monitoring Dashboard, which are designed to ensure that every transaction within the government’s revenue chain is visible, verifiable, and traceable.

    Aside from its technology-driven system, REVOP will also help to rebuild trust in public finance and empower policymakers with accurate financial intelligence and enable more effective decision-making.

    It will also strengthen fiscal transparency and ensure that every government revenue stream can be monitored in real time, representing a shift from a paper-driven, reactive system to a transparent, proactive, and technology-enabled model.

    “Our goal is simple but vital – every naira earned by the government must be visible, traceable, and used responsibly for the benefit of Nigerians. REVOP is a bold and practical step toward that vision, one that builds trust, strengthens accountability, and supports sustainable growth,” Edun added.

  • Stakeholders urge senator to join race, pledge votes

    Stakeholders urge senator to join race, pledge votes

    socio-political organisation in Ogun State, MATA YAYI, has urged Senator Adeola Olamilekan Yayi to contest the 2027 governorship election.

    It urged President Bola Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun, and other key leaders of All Progressives Congress to support his bid.

    The group said its appeal is driven by Yayi’s “record of urban and rural development” in all senatorial districts of the state, despite being elected to represent Ogun West.

    Speaking at a mobilisation meeting in Ifo Local Government, Convener, Matthew Taiwo (aka MATAYAYI) said Yayi has shown commitment to development of the state.

    He said the group would mobilise 30,000 votes should he emerge as APC candidate.

    In a communiqué signed by Taiwo, the group said Yayi’s achievements in infrastructure renewal, educational empowerment and inclusive political engagement set him apart as the best choice to lead the state.

    He said: “The people of Ifo  call on Senator Olamilekan Yayi, to contesting Ogun State governorship in 2027.”

    Taiwo noted that Ogun’s development has historically tilted toward the region of serving governors, often leaving other areas underserved.

    He said Yayi reversed this pattern by extending projects in three senatorial districts.

    “Since his foray into Ogun politics, Yayi has shown competence, capacity and commitment to inclusive governance’’.

    His impact is visible in Ogun East, Ogun Central and Ogun West,” he said.

    Reaffirming the group’s readiness to back Yayi with votes, Taiwo added: “Our call is not rhetorical. We have over 30,000 voters and more than 10,000 new supporters ready for the 2027 election.

    “Our committee will find first-time voters and convert them to active participants.”

    Read Also: Tinubu reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to global peace

    The group appealed to the President, APC national leadership, Abiodun, former Governor Olusegun Osoba and others to “support” Yayi’s emergence as flag bearer.

    Taiwo urged Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture, warning that saboteurs could attempt to destabilise the political environment ahead of 2027.

    He commended the President’s economic reforms, noting that although they come with challenges, “Nigeria is now set on a path of renewed prosperity.”

    The group also called on President Tinubu to seek re-election in 2027.

    “We appeal to our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to consider a second-term bid.

    “His efforts since May 29, 2023, have given Nigeria new aspirations and a forward-looking agenda.

    “Though the challenges are real, the President has shown readiness to tackle them.

    “He must be willing to sacrifice another four years for service to Nigeria,” the group stated.

  • Policy reforms key to financial stability, say experts

    Policy reforms key to financial stability, say experts

    Finance and accounting experts have urged the government to implement policy reforms, diversify the economy and boost local production, to stabilise finances.

    They said persistent inflation, currency devaluation and over-reliance on oil threatened sustainable economic growth.

    Speaking at the first Annual Dinner and Awards Night of ICAN, Lagelu and District Society, Pioneer Chair, Mrs. Omokemi Oladipo, said harnessing collective expertise, supporting local production and implementing sound policy reforms were crucial to preparing Nigeria for 2026 financial landscape.

    She lauded improving economic and financial state, noting efforts by government and citizens were yielding results.

    Board member of Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency, Oyebade Oyedepo, noted the fragility of Nigeria’s economy and called for measures to stabilise it ahead of 2026.

    Read Also: Riyadh 2025: Alli reveals secrets  of Team Nigeria’s success at Islamic Solidarity Games

    He said: “Nigeria is not financially viable at the moment, despite our abundant resources. For meaningful growth, the government must invest in manufacturing, production and agriculture, rather than relying on oil and imports.”

    A chartered accountant, Marcus Akobi, described the country’s financial situation as strained, but expressed optimism about future prospects.

    He said: “While the economy is dwindling, Nigeria is blessed with abundant resources. The reforms we are seeing are designed to bear fruits next year. National stability depends on proper application of macroeconomic policies.”

    District Vice Chairman and Organising Committee Chairman, Mr. Patterson Ariemodiugno, lauded members for upholding the highest professional standards.

  • Akwa Ibom is cleanest state in Nigeria

    Akwa Ibom is cleanest state in Nigeria

    Akwa Ibom State has been ranked the cleanest state in Nigeria for 2025, scoring 79 per cent in the State of the Nigerian Environment (STONE 2025 UNBROKEN) report. Enugu and Ebonyi followed with 65 per cent and 56 per cent.

    The ranking was announced by National Coordinator of Clean-Up Nigeria and Secretary of National Technical Study Group, Ene Owoh Jr., during presentation of the report and Cleanliness Performance Index Ratings in Abuja.

    According to NTSG, led by Prof Solomon Balogun, the assessment was carried out from November 2024 to November 2025. The study combined physical verification of states and major towns, weighted at 20 per cent with satellite imagery analysis, which contributed 80 per cent of the final score.

    The team assessed five key indicators: street and road cleanliness, vegetation and drainage control, waste management, public opinion poll, and knowledge, attitude, and practice of hygiene and sanitation among residents.

    The report shows an eight per cent improvement in the procurement of waste management equipment in all levels of government in 2025. However, the health of sanitation workers declined from 31 per cent in 2024 to 28 per cent in 2025, while sanitation-related diseases rose sharply to 43 per cent, up from 29 per cent.

    Hygiene and sanitation practice among citizens also fell, dropping from 36 per cent in 2024 to 32 per cent in 2025.

    Although open defecation rates reduced from 24 per cent to 19 per cent, Nigeria is the second-highest country globally for open defecation.

    Read Also: Shettima, governors, commissioners, others meet in Abuja to tackle Nigeria’s education crisis

    Nine states emerged as the cleanest in the country: Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Ebonyi, Bauchi, Plateau, Cross River, Anambra, Lagos, and the FCT. Despite this, satellite imagery data reveals that 187.2 million Nigerians—out of an estimated population of 240 million—continue to live in unclean environments.

    The STONE report further revealed that Nigeria’s life expectancy dropped from 50 years in 2024 to 47 years in 2025.

    Prince Owoh urged federal, state, and local governments to scale up investments in the sanitation sector. He also appealed to citizens to adopt better hygiene habits, stressing the need for more public toilets to curb open defecation. He advocated the establishment of health and environment clubs in schools, saying Clean-Up Nigeria is ready to collaborate with government and private organisations to enhance environmental cleanliness nationwide.

    He also applauded the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her green initiative, calling on the administration to embrace a broader environmental agenda that prioritizes “city and nature living, energy research, green economy, and resources management.”

    Cleanliness champions emerged across the six geopolitical zones as follows: South-South: Akwa Ibom (79%); South-East: Enugu (65%); South-West: Lagos (48%); North-East: Bauchi (50%); North-Central: Plateau (52%) and North-West: Kaduna (35%).

    With its 79 percent score, Akwa Ibom clinched the Stone 2025 Unbroken Green Crystal Award and a medal of service, marking its eighth consecutive win from 2018 to 2025.