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  • Non-implementation of Mental Health Act deters foreign donors, says hospital provost

    Non-implementation of Mental Health Act deters foreign donors, says hospital provost

    The Provost of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Abeokuta, Professor Afis Agboola, said on Saturday that the non-implementation of the Mental Health Act is discouraging foreign donors from investing in Nigeria’s health sector.

    Agboola raised the concern in Abuja during the 2025 budget performance review and 2026 budget defence at a session organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Specialty Healthcare.

    He appealed to the lawmakers to urge the Minister of Health to commence implementation of the Act, particularly the provision for the establishment of a Department of Mental Health.

    “If you can, please sir, impress it on the Minister of Health to implement that Act that talks about the creation of the Department of Mental Health. Though we have a desk officer in the ministry, that is just a minute part of it,” he said.

    “There are some fundings in which like in the United of America, there is Department of National Mental Health Agency are ready to partner with us but they kept asking do we have the agency but they kept asking so you know, but I’m aware there to have some funding new trend is and there is due though, and of course other health centers agencies but they were able to access those funding because there are statutory bodies that will give records of those things.

    “And of course we have other donor agencies abroad that are willing to partner and help our federal government agencies on eliminating the suffering of mental health patients but because there is no Agency or a Unit that can relate with. So,  please I want to plead with the Committee to impress it upon our leaders in the Federal Ministry of health to do it it is an Act and if they refuse to implement that Act, I think even though I’m a staff of Federal Ministry of Health they are not doing well to our patients.

    “On our own, we try to reach out to the Federal Ministry of Health which is our parent body and what they kept saying is about funding issue. Even though I work under them, the Director, Dr. Azeez is here. Maybe the National Assembly can send them too, yeah, he’s still the staff of the Ministry. He’s the staff of the Ministry.

    “You know, the issue of non-implementation of the Mental Health Act in the creation of this department of in the creation of department of mental health is an issue that we have been battling for over two years now that have been signed into law.

    “I understand the bureaucracy of the civil servants. Just two days ago I had a meeting with the Minister of Health, the Honourable Minister of State for Health and the P.S. and the DHS that are responsible for our hospitals. And they kept saying that the psychiatric hospitals are asking for more.

    “We cannot but ask for more because mentally-ill patients are Nigerians that have problems that could have caused social issues, other medical conditions. And we cannot but continue to ask for more.

    He told the committee that the Institution spent almost N1 billion it revenue generated to take care of abandoned patients.

    He said: “The other thing is the issue of abandonment. It’s an issue abandonment of patients. It’s a major problem and unfortunately we have a bill that was passed by the National Assembly, the Mental Health Act that was passed and signed to law by former president Muhammadu Buhari.

    “Unfortunately up to this very moment there is no execution of that bill. The Act itself specifies who does what. The representative of the federal government, the state government and even the local government.

    Speaking on the 2025 budget implementation, he disclosed that the Hospital recorded zero budget implementation due to non-release of appropriated funds.

    While noting that despite receiving AIE to incur up to 25 to 30 percent of the budget, the hospital has been unable to meet its financial obligations.

    He added that a lot of Psychiatric hospitals cut down on some non-regular staff including Consultants as a result of non-payment of salaries.

    According to him, about 10 months of the Overhead was released adding that the issue of energy cost is affecting all the Hospitals, however other non-regular releases were paid.

    Chairman of the House Committee on Specialty Healthcare, Hon. Alex Egbona assured that at least 30 percent of the capital component of the 2025 budgetary allocation will be released before the end February, 2026.

  • Imo @ 50: Shettima hails state’s political, cultural legacy, pledges more federal support

    Imo @ 50: Shettima hails state’s political, cultural legacy, pledges more federal support

    …describes Uzodimma as “game-changing revolutionary” 

    …as Anyaoku, monarchs, Oyebanji join golden jubilee

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday applauded Imo State’s exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s political, intellectual and economic development over the past 50 years, assuring the state of stronger Federal Government support as it charts a new course for the next five decades.

    Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of Imo State’s creation, Shettima conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s goodwill message and described the state as a critical partner in Nigeria’s progress, citing its leadership footprint, creative talents and agricultural strengths.

    He reserved special praise for Governor Hope Uzodimma, whom he described as a “game-changing revolutionary” in the state’s modern political history, crediting him with restoring discipline, planning and institutional strength to governance.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “Governor Uzodimma has distinguished himself as more than a custodian of the present. He is a leader who understands that governance is not theatre, but duty.

    “Under his watch, Imo has rediscovered the discipline of planning, the courage of reform, and the confidence to re-enter the national conversation as a state prepared for relevance”, Shettima said.

    Tracing Imo’s legacy of leadership, the Vice President recalled the towering roles of Dr Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe, whose “flamboyant command of language enriched Nigeria’s political memory,” and the late Sam Mbakwe, fondly remembered as the “Weeping Governor.”

    He also described former governor Rochas Okorocha as a pan-Nigerian archetype for his humanitarian work with orphaned children across the country.

    On intellectual and cultural influence, Shettima hailed Chief Flora Nwapa as “the mother of modern African literature,” who gave African women “a literary voice at a time when silence was expected of them.”

    He further celebrated Imo’s imprint on Nollywood through Genevieve Nnaji, Rita Dominic and Kanayo O. Kanayo, and praised music icon Onyeka Onwenu, who he said “placed Nigerian sound on the world stage with grace and conviction.”

    On economic development, the Vice President acknowledged Imo’s strengths in agriculture, particularly palm oil production at the historic Ada Palm Plantation, as well as thriving commercial centres from Nkwo Orji to Orlu International Market.

    He also highlighted the state’s educational infrastructure, including the Federal University of Technology, Owerri and Imo State University, describing education as Imo’s greatest industry.

    “Literacy rates remain among the highest in the nation, and graduates from Imo compete confidently across every field,” he stated.

    Shettima pointed to emerging opportunities in Imo’s oil and gas sector in Ohaji-Egbema and Oguta, and identified growth potential in agro-processing, renewable energy, mineral processing, tourism and the digital economy.

    He noted the emergence of Owerri as a major hospitality hub with one of the highest concentrations of hotels and entertainment centres in the country, stressing that “security has been an economic asset and peace, when nurtured, yields prosperity.”

    Urging the state to use the golden jubilee as a springboard, Shettima said, “Unity must be renewed. Innovation must be encouraged. Governance must remain humane and disciplined. Politics must return to service.”

    Earlier, Governor Uzodimma said Imo would embrace digital transformation in the next 50 years, describing the creation of the state in 1976 as a moment that “enunciated freedom.”

    He thanked God for sustaining the state for five decades and expressed optimism about its future.

    “We have made significant progress both as a people and as a state. There is no doubt that we are growing fast in unity, resilience and reliance on God,” he said.

    “We have seen Owerri transform from a town into a hub. What has kept us united is the indomitable spirit of the Imo people.”

    Chairman of the occasion and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, commended Uzodimma for what he described as far-reaching developmental projects across key sectors.

    “His administration has impacted Imo State in many ways. For example, in transportation, finance, agriculture and other key sectors, his administration has left admirable legacy in Imo State, making a significant contribution to the wider Nigerian economy,” Anyaoku said.

    In a goodwill message, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, described Uzodimma as a “reference point” among governors, noting that his colleagues were increasingly emulating his approach to governance.

    The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Ugochukwu Achebe (Agbogidi), thanked Imo State for shaping his early life and praised Uzodimma “for showcasing Imo State to the world.”

    Also present, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Oba Ojaja II), offered prayers for the continued progress of Imo State, Nigeria and sustained unity across the country.

  •  Five functional oil refineries in Africa in 2026

     Five functional oil refineries in Africa in 2026

    Africa’s oil refining industry has long struggled to keep pace with the continent’s vast crude oil production. For decades, many African nations exported crude oil while importing refined petroleum products due to aging, underperforming, or non-operational refineries.

    However, fresh investments, upgrades, and new large-scale projects are reshaping the sector. Several countries are now boosting domestic refining capacity to reduce fuel imports, strengthen energy security, and support economic growth.

    Below are five major operational refineries in Africa as of 2026 playing a critical role in meeting regional and domestic fuel demand.

    1. Dangote Petroleum Refinery — Nigeria

    Location: Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos, Nigeria

    Capacity: Approximately 650,000 barrels per day

    The Dangote Petroleum Refinery stands as Africa’s largest refinery and one of the biggest single-train refineries in the world. Located in Lagos, the privately owned facility processes a wide range of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, and other refined outputs.

    With a refining capacity of about 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery is positioned to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports while also supplying export markets across Africa and beyond. Its scale and output make it a transformative project for the continent’s downstream oil sector.

    2. Skikda Refinery — Algeria

    Location: Skikda, Algeria

    Capacity: Approximately 350,000 barrels per day

    The Skikda Refinery is one of North Africa’s largest and most established refining complexes. With a capacity of around 350,000 barrels per day, the facility plays a vital role in Algeria’s energy infrastructure.

    It supplies refined petroleum products for domestic consumption while also supporting exports to international markets, reinforcing Algeria’s position as a key energy player in the Mediterranean region.

    3. SAPREF Refinery — South Africa

    Location: Durban, South Africa

    Capacity: Approximately 180,000 barrels per day

    Located in Durban, the SAPREF Refinery has historically been the largest crude oil refinery in southern Africa. Operated as a joint venture between global energy majors BP and Shell, the facility has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s fuel supply chain.

    With a capacity of roughly 180,000 barrels per day, SAPREF has been instrumental in supplying transport fuels and other refined products to both domestic and regional markets.

    4. Alexandria MIDOR Refinery — Egypt

    Location: Alexandria, Egypt

    Capacity: Approximately 160,000 barrels per day (post-expansion)

    Egypt’s Alexandria MIDOR Refinery is a key component of the country’s refining strategy. Following expansion projects aimed at increasing throughput and efficiency, the refinery now processes about 160,000 barrels per day.

    It produces a range of petroleum products primarily for Egypt’s domestic market, while also supporting regional fuel distribution.

    5. Cairo Mostorod Refinery — Egypt

    Location: Mostorod, Cairo, Egypt

    Capacity: Approximately 140,000 barrels per day

    Operated by the Egyptian Refining Company, the Cairo Mostorod Refinery is one of Egypt’s modern refining facilities. With a processing capacity of about 140,000 barrels per day, the refinery plays a crucial role in meeting the country’s fuel demand.

    The facility supports Egypt’s broader objective of reducing refined product imports and strengthening its downstream petroleum sector.

  • FG reaffirms grassroots development with multi-sector projects in Bauchi

    FG reaffirms grassroots development with multi-sector projects in Bauchi

    The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to grassroots development through the implementation of projects designed to improve livelihoods and expand access to essential services at the community level.

    The Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmed, said it was in furtherance of this commitment that the Federal government initiated and commissioned about 10 projects across Bauchi State, aimed at improving access to education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and emergency services.

    The projects, executed by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and handed over to the Bauchi State Government, are located in both urban and rural communities and are intended to plug long-standing gaps in social services, boost economic activity and strengthen public safety.

    They include a newly constructed NEDC State Office to enhance coordination of development interventions; a mega school complex at Dungel along Jos Road to expand access to secondary education; a Medical Emergency Complex at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) to improve emergency response; and a modern fire service station with a fire truck at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Gubi Campus.

    Also commissioned were two Primary Health Centres in Yashi and Shira to improve access to basic healthcare; a renovated Government Secondary School in Yelwan Duguri and a rehabilitated school in Maina Maji to address learning infrastructure deficits; an ultra-modern cattle market in Alkaleri Local Government Area to support livestock trade; and the Kalajanga–Bara–Tashan Turmi bridges along the Bauchi–Gombe Road to improve connectivity and ease movement of goods and people.

    According to a statement on Saturday by Sani Datti, the Head Information and Public Relations at the Ministry, the Minister also inspected ongoing projects, including the construction of two classroom blocks, an administration block and a laboratory at Government Secondary School, Bauchi, as well as the Gombe Abba–Kirfi Road project.

    Speaking during the exercise, Ahmed said the interventions align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government and are designed to accelerate regional development.

    Governor Bala Mohammed, who received the Minister and his delegation, said the NEDC’s interventions had complemented State efforts and delivered visible impact across key sectors.

  • Kaiama Massacre: Shettima leads Fed govt delegation to condole with victims of attack

    Kaiama Massacre: Shettima leads Fed govt delegation to condole with victims of attack

    …assures all hands are on deck to restore peace in Kaiama communities

    …says Tinubu has directed NEMA to mobilise resources for distressed residents

    Vice President Kashim Shettima on Saturday led a Federal Government delegation to Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State to commiserate with residents of Nuku and Woro villages over Tuesday’s deadly terrorist attack, assuring that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is determined to restore peace and tranquility to the area.

    Shettima, who met with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and other stakeholders during the visit, said the President had already ordered the deployment of a battalion of the Nigerian Army to Kaiama, while “all hands are on deck” to rid the affected communities and the state of insecurity.

    He also disclosed that President Tinubu had directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to mobilise resources, in partnership with the Kwara State Emergency Management Agency, to provide relief and support to residents affected by the attacks.

    “Your Excellency, we are here at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commiserates with you and the good people of Kaiama and Kwara State, by extension, over the tragedy that befell our communities of Woro and Nuku,” the Vice President said.

    According to a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima described the killings as tragic and shocking, noting that the victims were peaceful citizens who practised their faith in a harmonious manner.

    “That tragic killings had shocked Nigerians because the victims were peaceful members of the communities that were dedicated to building peaceful livelihood, while they practice their religion in the peaceful and harmonious manner that the injunctions of Islam has instructed,” he added.

    The Vice President extended what he called the heartfelt condolences of the President and the Federal Government to families who lost loved ones, assuring them that the government was acting decisively.

    “Please, accept our heartfelt condolences, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A battalion of the Nigerian Army had been deployed to Kaiama and all hands are on deck to ensure that peace and tranquility is restored to those communities,” he said.

    While he did not disclose details of ongoing security operations, Shettima said such issues were sensitive and could not be fully discussed publicly.

    “Security issues are sensitive issues and we do not have to divulge most of the actions that are being taken by our security establishment,” he stated.

    Also speaking, Chairman of the North East Governors Forum and Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, expressed the sympathy of the North East Governors to the people of Kwara, offering prayers for the victims.

    “As Muslims, we believe in destiny and it is our sincere hope that, by God’s grace, this act will not happen again,” Zulum said, praying that Allah grants the deceased “Aljannah firdaus.”

    In his response, Governor AbdulRazaq commended the Federal Government for what he described as a swift intervention, confirming that troops had arrived and operations had commenced.

    “As confirmed by the Local Government Chairman, troops are already on ground and the Operation Savannah Shield is in motion,” he said.

    The governor added that top security officials were also already in the state, noting that the delegation was received at the airport by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Second Division of the Nigerian Army, while a Deputy Inspector-General of Police was also on ground.

    He further said NEMA officials had been in the area since the incident occurred.

    Calling for continued prayers, AbdulRazaq pledged sustained support for the President and Vice President.

    “One is short of words and what to say but we will continue to support our President, the Vice President and our leadership for God to guide them in the affairs of this nation,” he said.

    Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area, Abdullahi Abubakar Danladi, thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for the immediate deployment of a battalion to the area, while also commending the governor’s leadership.

    The Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Mu’azu Shehu Omar, also praised Tinubu for what he described as prompt action and concern since the massacre.

    “We really appreciate the effort of President Tinubu. Since the incident happened on Tuesday, he has shown concerned toward us. The security personnel and other relevant agencies are adequately deployed to arrest the situation,” the monarch said.

    Dignitaries who accompanied the Vice President included the Director-General of NEMA, Zubaida Umar; Senator Ali Ndume; Managing Director of Niger Delta Power Holding Company Ltd, Jennifer Adighije; former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege, and members of the Kwara State House of Assembly, among others.

  • EPL: Arsenal lead by nine points after beating Sunderland

    EPL: Arsenal lead by nine points after beating Sunderland

    Viktor Gyokeres scored twice as Arsenal comfortably beat Sunderland to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points.

    The Gunners looked like they were going to be frustrated by a well organised Sunderland defence before Martin Zubimendi’s excellent strike beat Robin Roefs, after hitting the post.

    Sunderland did cause problems, with Brian Brobbey unsettling the Arsenal backline with his physicality and the forward had a shot cleared off the line by Kai Havertz after keeper David Raya fumbled a long ball into the area.

    Declan Rice and Havertz went close with curling strikes before substitute Viktor Gyokeres slammed the ball into the net after being teed up by Havertz in the 66th minute.

    The Swedish international scored his second in stoppage time after Gabriel Martinelli rolled the ball across the box and Gyokeres finished into an empty net.

    After Aston Villa’s draw with Bournemouth and Manchester City not in action until Sunday afternoon, the victory adds more pressure on Arsenal’s title rivals.

    BBC

  • EPL: Spurs defender Romero sent off as Man Utd extend winning run

    EPL: Spurs defender Romero sent off as Man Utd extend winning run

    Tottenham skipper Cristian Romero was accused of letting his team-mates down as his first-half red card helped condemn his side to defeat as Manchester United extended their winning run under Michael Carrick.

    Bryan Mbeumo put United in front after 38 minutes at Old Trafford when he applied a brilliant finish to a superb corner routine involving Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo.

    Fernandes wrapped up the win late on as he turned home Diogo Dalot’s inswinging cross.

    But the main focus was on Romero. So critical of Tottenham’s board in midweek, the Argentine gave referee Michael Oliver no option other than to brandish a red card with a tackle that caught Casemiro just above the ankle and left the Brazilian screaming in pain.

    It was Romero’s second red card of the season, which means he will miss four games, including the north London derby against Arsenal on 22 February.

    BBC Match of the Day pundit Danny Murphy said Romero had “let his team-mates down”.

    The result means Tottenham have now gone seven Premier League games without a win, a run that has yielded just four points and leaves them 14th and too close to the relegation places for comfort.

    Although they were not at their best, United at least avoided the same embarrassment they suffered against an Everton side reduced to 10 men even earlier in the game in November, when David Moyes’ side claimed victory.

    The result led to more chants backing interim manager Carrick as United consolidated their position in the top four.

  • NAF plans structured withdrawal of firearms from retiring officers 

    NAF plans structured withdrawal of firearms from retiring officers 

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it will soon begin a structured and lawful process of withdrawing service firearms from retiring personnel to strengthen weapons accountability, enhance public safety, and align veteran administration with international best practices.

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, revealed this on Saturday during a parley with NAF Veterans, held at the NAF Base in Abuja. 

    The Air Chief also revealed that the NAF was also exploring a regulated armoury arrangement that would allow eligible retirees to lawfully possess approved firearm calibres for personal protection.

    Air Marshal Aneke was represented at the event by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins, who conveyed the Air Force leadership’s position on the initiative.

    According to the NAF Chief, efforts are ongoing to retrieve all service-issued weapons from retiring officers and airmen, particularly senior citizens, to prevent risks associated with misuse, diversion, or improper storage.

    “The Nigerian Air Force recognises the distinguished service of its veterans, but service weapons remain government property and must be duly accounted for at retirement, in line with extant laws,” he said.

    The CAS said the exercise was not punitive, rather an administrative necessity aimed at ensuring compliance with the Firearms Act while safeguarding retired personnel and the wider society.

    He explained that modalities were being developed to ensure transparency, regulation and full compliance with national firearms laws before any such framework is implemented.

    Aneke noted that the firearm withdrawal policy forms part of broader reforms in veteran administration, including plans to establish Veteran Well-Being Centres nationwide.

    He said the centres would serve as one-stop hubs for welfare support, documentation, security-related matters and healthcare coordination for retired personnel.

    The CAS added that the Air Force was leveraging technology through digital platforms and help desks to improve communication and service delivery, especially for elderly veterans.

    Read Also: NAF, Enugu partnership a model for effective sub-national security collaboration – CAS

    He reassured veterans that their safety and dignity remained paramount, stressing that the NAF would balance welfare considerations with national security imperatives.

    The CAS also highlighted the importance of health and wellness in post-service life, describing it as a key pillar of veteran welfare and sustainable reintegration.

    Dr Ugochukwu Nnamdi, a public health practitioner from the 063 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Abuja, noted that health encompasses physical, mental and social well-being.

    He said the transition from military to civilian life often presents emotional and psychological challenges, urging veterans to adopt healthy lifestyles and seek timely medical support.

    The parley provided an interactive platform for veterans to share concerns and offer recommendations on welfare, security and post-service integration.

  • Minister empowers 4,064 APC women leaders, others in Kano 

    Minister empowers 4,064 APC women leaders, others in Kano 

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, has distributed various empowerment items to 4,064 All Progressives Congress (APC) women leaders and vulnerable citizens across the 44 local government areas of Kano state.

    Speaking at the mega empowerment programme held in Kano, Mahmoud acknowledged that the event was to acknowledge their loyalty, sacrifices, and role as mobilisers, peacemakers, and agents of change.

    She described the gathering as a symbol of hope, inclusion, and the pathway to sustainable development through empowering women and vulnerable citizens.

    The minister, however, commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano State, especially its women leaders, for their dedication, resilience, and grassroots mobilisation, which have strengthened the party and deepened democratic participation.

    She emphasised that the programme went beyond the mere distribution of empowerment items, aiming to restore dignity, unlock potential, and ensure no one was left behind. 

    The minister said, “Women formed the backbone of families, communities, and political structures,” adding that empowering a woman empowered an entire household and society at large”.

    She said, “Rooted in the APC’s progressive ideals of social justice, inclusive growth, and shared prosperity, the initiative addressed economic challenges by promoting self-reliance over dependency, stimulating local productivity, bolstering household incomes, and enabling beneficiaries to contribute to economic and community development”.

    Mahmoud further noted that the distributed items would serve as stepping stones to self-reliance and economic activity.

    She, therefore, urged beneficiaries to use the resources wisely as symbols of trust, responsibility, and opportunity, expanding their impact beyond immediate households. 

    The minister praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for prioritising social investment, women inclusion, youth empowerment, and vulnerable Nigerians’ welfare, aligning the programme with this people-centred vision.

    According to a statement issued by her Special Assistant, Media, Austin Elemue, the minister called for building bridges of cooperation, promoting peaceful coexistence, and working collectively for a prosperous Kano State and stronger Nigeria.

    In his welcome remarks, the Senior Special Assistant to FCT Minister of State on Administration and Strategy and Chairman of Working Coordination Committee, Abdullahi Kauranmata said that the event was a powerful demonstration of the shared commitment to uplifting lives, strengthening livelihoods, and building a more inclusive and prosperous Kano State.

    According to him, “This programme has been carefully designed to provide practical support, skills, and opportunities that will empower our people, especially women and vulnerables, to become self-reliant, productive, and economically resilient.” 

    He applauded the leadership, vision, and collaboration of all stakeholders whose dedication has made this programme a reality. 

  • Ekiti 2026: Senator Arise rallies support for Oyebanji

    Ekiti 2026: Senator Arise rallies support for Oyebanji

    A former member of the National Assembly, Senator Ayo Arise, has canvassed support for Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, ahead of the June 20 governorship election.

    Arise said Governor Oyebanji has done well to merit another term in office, having turned around the fortunes of the state in many key sectors.

    The former Chairman of Senate Committee on Privatization made the call while on a consultation tour, to political leaders and other stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ikole and Oye Local Government Areas.

    Senator Arise met with the APC  chairmen in Ikole, Oye, Ido/Osi, Moba and Ilejemeje Local Government Areas which make up the senatorial district in the course of the consultation with party stakeholders.

    He charged party members to speed up aggressive mobilization drive to bring more members into the party and ensure their registration with the extension of the e-registration of new members and revalidation of the membership of old members.

    The APC chieftain said registration of new members and revalidation of old members would help the re-election aspiration of Governor Oyebanji and make the party more formidable ahead of the governorship polls and future elections in the state.

    Senator Arise commended Governor Oyebanji’s investment in the agriculture sector with Ikole Local Government being a huge beneficiary with the attraction of investors like Agbeyewa Farms and the designation of the council area as a Special Agriculture Processing Zone.

    He said communities like Ipao, Oke Ako, Irele and Iyemero captured within the Special Agriculture Processing Zone have become hubs for commercial agriculture which has generated employment for thousands of youths.

    According to him, projects like Itapa-Ijelu-Omu Road, Ido-Ipere-Iludun Road and many others executed by Governor Oyebanji showed his love for the people of Ekiti North and must be reciprocated with votes to get him re-elected at the forthcoming governorship election.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Oyebanji hail Ondo’s developmental strides

    Senator Arise urged party leaders and members to work for Governor Oyebanji’s victory and make the governorship election a priority to ensure the continuation of good governance and purposeful leadership in Ekiti State.

    According to him, the legacies of the quality and result-oriented representation he delivered when he was in the Senate in the areas of projects, infrastructure and human capital development are unprecedented and would love to do more if given the opportunity again.

    Party leaders in Ikole Local Government Area like Chief Ayodele Owoeye, Hon Segun Adelugba and Mrs Oluyinka Awe described Senator Arise’s last tenure in the Senate as “the golden era of representation” which the people of the senatorial district would want to taste again.

    They noted that the Federal University, Oye Ekiti which was influenced to Ekiti North by Senator Arise during his time in the Senate has become a legacy project with a huge impact on the educational, economic and social life of the people with towns like Ikole, Itapa, Ilupeju and Ayegbaju benefiting from its multi-campus structure.

    Prince Ore Fabunmi and Mrs Beatrice Adeleye who spoke on behalf of the Elders Forum in Oye Local Government Area commended Senator Arise’s contribution to the growth and success of the party in the past describing him as a competent leader that can be trusted.