The Nation Newspaper

Category: City Beats

  • Troops burst bandits handout, recover arms, motorcycle

    Troops burst bandits handout, recover arms, motorcycle

    Troops of the 3 division of the Nigerian army and Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have stormed the hideout of gun runners and recovered arms, ammunition and motorcycle.

    A statement by Media Information Officer of the OPSH, Major Samson Zhakom, said: “In continuation of efforts to rid the Joint Operations Area of illicit arms and ammunition, troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) intensified raids on gunrunners’ hideouts as part of ongoing Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A with positive outcomes. The troops intercepted a suspected armed  bandit at Katsit Community in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area (LGA) of Kaduna State.

    “The arrested suspect was dressed in a military combat camouflage with intention of impersonating troops to attack passersby and rob unsuspecting members of the public.

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    “Troops recovered one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, 3 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special), 7 empty cases of 7.62 mm (Special), one fake vigilante identity card, one mobile phone and 2 ATM cards from the suspect. The suspect has been taken into custody for further action”

    In another development, troops yesterday raided the hideout of a notorious gunrunning syndicate at Kwanar Lauje in Bassa LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, it was observed that the criminals fled their hideout before troops arrived the area.

    “However, thorough search of the hideout led to the recovery of cache of arms and ammunition including one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, one AK-47 rifle butt, 300 rounds of 7.62 mm (Special), one round of 9 mm and 2 rounds of 23 mm SHILKA mounted anti-aircraft gun ammunition.

    “Troops also recovered one motorcycle abandoned by the criminals. The recovered items are in custody while troops are conducting follow-up operations to intercept the fleeing criminals.

    “Troops of 3 Division/Operation SAFE HAVEN will continue to maintain aggressive posture against criminal elements within the Joint Operations Area, with a view to frustrate their actions and get them arrested to face the full wrath of the law”

  • EU, German Cooperation launch energy efficiency networks in Kano

    EU, German Cooperation launch energy efficiency networks in Kano

    The European Union (EU), in partnership with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), has launched two Energy Efficiency Networks (EEN) in Kano State.

    These initiatives, which seek to support Kano State, Nigeria’s commercial and industrial hub, in addressing the energy challenges impacting the state’s economic growth and social development, will promote inclusive growth and strengthen energy transition efforts of the Federal Government.

    Speaking during the official launch of the networks, Team Leader, Green and Digital Economy, EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Inga Stefanowicz, noted that while Kano State is a big hub of economic activity and manufacturing, it experiences energy deficits, which are great impediments to performance and productivity of businesses and manufacturers in the state.

    To address this challenge, she stated that the EU was partnering with the state to address these challenges.

    “The EU in Nigeria has been engaging and partnering with Nigeria for many years to address energy and electrification deficit, especially given the socioeconomic development of the country,” she said.

    Highlighting the importance of improving energy efficiency, Stefanowicz said, “We focus on renewable energy primarily here in the state, and we have had some achievements in terms of solar power and additional capacities. Now, we are looking at the hydro sector in Kano State.

    “There is great work to be done in energy efficiency in reducing the cost for manufacturers and businesses, reducing greenhouse emissions, and improving the environment. Saving and improving energy efficiency is as important as working to install new energy capacities. This is what the Nigeria Energy Support Programme (NESP) has been doing for years now.”

    Commissioner, Investment, Commerce, Industry and Cooperative, Kano State, Shehu Wada Sagagi, said: “This initiative cannot come at a better time. Energy efficiency has always been a problem for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Most of them complain that they are being charged for energy they don’t use. Therefore, I thank the EU and the German Cooperation for this initiative.

    “We have a problem with qualified electricians. The few we have charge too high, and there is high demand for them. I hope this energy support initiative will also include training of electricians so that we have enough supply of electricians.

    “In Kano, we need improved access to electricity. We currently need about 1,000MW of electricity and what we can provide is far below. Most companies, therefore, opt for generating their own power.”

    Assuring the EU of the state’s willingness to collaborate, Sagagi added: “We are going to work with the EU and provide all assistance and collaborations needed. We want everyone to come and contribute to our economic growth. Solving the electricity problem will solve the problem of unemployment. Most of our youth are not only unemployed but unemployable. This initiative is therefore timely to help them acquire skills.”

    The GIZ’s Country Director for Nigeria and ECOWAS, Markus Wagner, who was represented by Joshua Yari, Implementation Manager, GIZ, said that Germany has long recognised the importance of energy efficiency in enhancing the economic competitiveness of industries in the global market.

    “These efforts align perfectly with Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan, which, among other things, aims at doubling the rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2060,” Wagner said.

    The Director General, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Olusola Obadimu, said the launch of the Energy Efficiency Network was both timely and strategic.

    Obadimu said: “As the voice of Nigerian business, NACCIMA recognises that energy efficiency is not merely a technical consideration, but a developmental imperative, a cornerstone for enhancing industrial productivity, reducing energy costs, combating climate change, and promoting green economic growth.

    “Our industries, particularly Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), remain heavily burdened by energy-related constraints, from rising utility costs to unstable power supply. These inefficiencies stifle output, limit competitiveness, and hinder innovation. The establishment of a structured Energy Efficiency Network provides a real opportunity to reverse this trend by enabling industries to share best practices, access technical know-how, benchmark performance, and co-create context-specific solutions for energy management.”

    Also speaking, DirectorGeneral, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Segun Ajayi-Kadir, who was represented by Director, Research and Economic Policy Division, Oluwasegun Ogundipe, described the launch as a bold initiative and laudable step towards promoting a more sustainable, resilient, and energy-smart future for our dear country, Nigeria.

    He said: “Most ratifying is the introduction of the Nigeria Energy Support Programme that has over the years added immense value to the operations of manufacturing concerns in Nigeria, in terms of skills upscale and cost savings through energy efficiency initiatives. Energy is critical to the competitiveness of the manufacturing sector, and the attainment of sustained economic growth.”

  • Ondo students petition CP over attack, assault on ex-leader by cultists

    Ondo students petition CP over attack, assault on ex-leader by cultists

    The National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS) has called on the commissioner of police in the state command, Wilfred Afolabi, to launch an investigation into an attack on one of its former leaders, Mary Ogunga, by suspected cultists.

    Ms Ogunga had in a social media post on Sunday alleged that she was attacked, assaulted, and intimidated by some suspected internet fraudsters, “Yahoo boys” who later identified themselves as members of an outlawed, dreaded cult group.

    While the assault was going on, the former national president of NAOSS claimed she ran for help to a nearby police officer attached to the commissioner of police surveillance team, but was disappointed by their failure to intervene.

    “Shockingly, the officer, identified as Supol Banty, failed to take the matter to the police station. Instead, he forced the injured bike rider to pay for the vehicle’s side mirror, completely ignoring our injuries and damages.

    “It was evident that these attackers had bribed the officer, who then compromised his duty by siding with them. As a law-abiding citizen and leader of the Ondo student body, I was deeply humiliated and demoralised,” Ms Ogunga said.

    She noted that the assault and experience have left her questioning the impartiality of the security agent while demanding justice over the attack.

    But in a petition to the Ondo police boss on Monday, the students’ body condemned the assault on Ms Ogunga by the suspect cultists, describing the action as a direct attack on the student leadership and collective freedom of expression.

    In the copy of the petition signed by its emeritus vice president, Benjamin Ayodeji Ogunga, a copy obtained by the Nation, NAOSS also said the attack has further exposed a growing threat to young people who step forward to lead, represent, and inspire change.

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    It read, “The Nigerian Police Force, Ondo Command, must immediately investigate this incident and bring all involved to justice while reassuring the public and the student community of its commitment to protection and justice.

    “The police must ensure that the assailants are identified and prosecuted accordingly, and also sanction any officer found culpable in this shameful act of roadside extortion and compromise.

    “Work proactively with student bodies to strengthen campus and community security. Leadership is not a crime. Silence is not an option. Students across Ondo State and Nigeria are watching. We will not accept fear as a new normal.

    When contacted, the spokesman for the State Police Command, Ayanlade Olayinka, told our correspondent that the command received a copy of the petition and had begun an investigation into the case.

    “Yes. I’m aware of the petition, and the Ondo state police command has launched an investigation into the matter,” he said. 

  • Championing Economic Development: Segilola Resources commissions new Palace, launches youth empowerment scheme in Osun

    Championing Economic Development: Segilola Resources commissions new Palace, launches youth empowerment scheme in Osun

    Segilola Resources Operating Limited, Nigeria’s first large-scale gold mining company and a subsidiary of Thor Explorations Ltd, has commissioned a newly constructed royal palace in Imogbara and officially launched a youth empowerment scheme in Imogbara and Iperindo.

    These initiatives are part of the company’s Community Development Agreement (CDA) commitments, underscoring its dedication to sustainable development, cultural preservation, and inclusive impact within its areas of operation.

    The newly completed palace is a significant contribution to Imogbara’s cultural heritage. Designed and built in close collaboration with the community, the structure reflects the pride, history and leadership of the people, while offering a functional and dignified seat for traditional governance.

    In addition to the palace, Segilola Resources has rolled out a dedicated Youth Empowerment Scheme to tackle unemployment and foster economic independence among young people.

    Through this initiative, the company is providing commercial mini-buses—popularly known as Korope— to the host communities (three to Imogbara and three to Iperindo), enabling them to generate a sustainable source of income through transport services, while also strengthening the local economy.

    Speaking at the commissioning, Ms. Madhurii Sakar-Amoda, Community Development and Stakeholder Manager at SROL, stated, “At Segilola, development is not something we do to communities; it is something we build with them. Our work is anchored in partnership, guided by respect, and focused on creating value that lasts. Community engagement is not an add-on — it is central to our purpose and informs every decision we make.”

    “The new palace represents more than just a structure. It is a proud symbol of cultural heritage and resilient leadership. Similarly, the Youth Empowerment Scheme goes beyond providing buses. It is about restoring dignity, inspiring ambition, and unlocking economic potential for the next generation.”

    “For us, mining should leave more than just footprints. It should leave a legacy of opportunity, inclusion, and meaningful transformation,” she concluded.

    Further strengthening infrastructure in the area, Segilola Resources also announced the completion of a 2.4-kilometre interlocking road linking Imogbara to Odo Ijesa, enhancing mobility, access, and economic integration for residents.

    Through initiatives like this, Segilola Resources continues to demonstrate what responsible mining can achieve—development that is people-focused, community-led, and designed to last.

  • Workers kill Edo farmer over N.9m pineapple sales 

    Workers kill Edo farmer over N.9m pineapple sales 

    A 56-year old farmer, Henry Oyagbomwan, has been killed and buried in a shallow grave by five of his farm workers.

    The victim was killed after he sold pineapple worth N900,000 at his farm in Igueze village, Ovia Northeast local government area of Edo State.

    It was learnt that the incident happened on May 13th, 2025.

    Police sources said the five workers collected the money from the pineapple sales, killed their employer and fled to different locations.

    After killing the victim, the workers called the family and demanded a ransom of N60m but the family insisted on talking to their patraich before making payment.

    The workers then demanded for N300,000 and cut off all communicationa after collecting the money.

    Following reports to the police, men of the anti-kidnapping squad went after the kidnappers. They tracked one of them to Akwa Ibom State where they arrested one of the suspects, Bassey Uyong Umeh in a creek.

    Umeh squealed that the victim has been killed and took police operatives to where the victim was buried. 

    He took police detectives to the spot where they buried the victim and the decomposing corpse was recovered.

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    Son of the deceased, Festus, said the cell phones of other suspects have been switched off. 

    Edo Police spokesman, Moses Yamu, said investigation will continue for other fleeing suspects to be arrested.

  • Father’s Day: Och’Idoma, centre advocate equal rights for boys, girls

    Father’s Day: Och’Idoma, centre advocate equal rights for boys, girls

    In commemoration of this year’s Father’s Day, the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) has advocated equal rights for male and female children.

      The Och’Idoma of Idoma Kingdom,  John  Odogbo, also canvassed gender equality and inclusivity for peace to reign in the society.

    The appeals were made at a conference marking this year’s       Father’s Day in Abuja at the weekend. The conference was themed “Fathers as feminists: Redefining fatherhood for equality and justice.” 

    The Och’Idoma, represented at the event by Chief John Ochai, urged parents to treat both males and females as equals to ensure sustainable peace and development.

    He noted that in   Idoma land, he ensured that his subjects, irrespective of their gender, are not only treated with empathy, but are inculcated with the virtues of discipline, hard work, acquisition of education and skills in various fields of human endeavours.

    The traditional ruler advised that deliberate efforts be made to address violence occasioned by discrimination against either of the sexes.

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    He cited the abolition of the age-long discriminatory practices against women on matters relating to inheritance and burial rites in Idoma land.

    The monarch added that a deceased woman with years with children can now be buried in her husband’s ancestral land as against the old practice whereby her remains were taken to her father’s home.

    Development expert and founding Executive Director of Centre LSD, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, said Nigerian society must raise the boy child to see masculinity in a new way.

    He lamented that many responsible girls now find it hard to find well-trained and responsible men to marry.

  • Synergy is our strength, says NSCDC mining commander after silent heroes award recognition

    Synergy is our strength, says NSCDC mining commander after silent heroes award recognition

    Commander John Onoja Attah of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals has described his recognition at the 2025 Silent Heroes Awards as a reflection of the Corps’ revitalized commitment under the leadership of Commandant General Ahmed Abubakar Audi.

    “This recognition is not just personal; it is symbolic of the renewed energy within the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps under the visionary leadership of our Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni,” Attah said.

    He dedicated the award to the Commandant General, praising him for designing a security framework that has delivered tangible results, particularly in the mining sector.

    Attah also emphasized the need for deeper collaboration, intelligence sharing, and mutual respect among all security agencies, noting that economic sabotage cannot be tackled in isolation.

    “The fight against illegal mining and other forms of economic sabotage requires a united front — one driven by trust, intelligence sharing, and mutual respect among all arms of our national security apparatus,” he said.

    Attah added that Nigeria’s security architecture must expand to include local communities and development institutions.

    “Let this moment serve as a clarion call to all stakeholders: the time has come to deepen synergy across sectors of national development, especially between security agencies, ministries, and local communities,” he said.

    Commander Attah received the Security Heroism Award at the 2025 edition of the Silent Heroes Awards, held in Abuja on Saturday.

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    The event focused on the sacrifices of frontline officers and professionals whose work rarely makes headlines.

    Attah’s recognition comes amid increased scrutiny of illegal mining activities across mineral-rich corridors in Nigeria, where he has led a sustained clampdown — earning both resistance and commendation.

    The ceremony attracted top dignitaries from the security, political, and development sectors.

    Among those in attendance were: Usman Ahmed Ododo; governor of Kogi (represented by retired commander Jerry Omodara), General Christopher Musa; chief of defence staff (represented by Rear Admiral E.O. Bankole) and Dr Kayode Egbetokun, inspector-general of police (represented by Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi).

    Others are Chief Uche Nnaji, minister of innovation, science and technology (represented by Dr Matthew Adepoju, DG of NASRDA); Mr Tony Elumelu, banker and philanthropist and HRH Sir Simeon Ujah, Ejeh of Olamaboro.

    Sonia Sunday Odita, project coordinator of the Silent Heroes Awards, said the initiative seeks to honour Nigerians who quietly drive progress in public service, governance, and humanitarian sectors.

    She said: “These are Nigerians who, in their corners, defy danger, pressure, and anonymity to keep the wheels of our country turning — especially in security.

    “The awards remind us that patriotism isn’t always loud; sometimes it is found in the daily consistency of those who choose integrity.”

    Commander Attah was one of 40 honourees across sectors including governance, business, health, civil service, and national security.

    Notable recipients included Muhammadu Sanusi II; Emir of Kano, Dr Daniel Olukoya; general overseer MFM, Senator Bala Mohammed; governor of Bauchi; Hon Benjamin Kalu; deputy speaker, House of Representatives, Dr Bello Matawalle; minister of defence and Prince Arthur Eze, businessman.

    Also awarded were Engr Abubakar Momoh; minister of Niger Delta affairs, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe; FCT mandate secretary for health, Engr Abisoye Coker-Odusote; DG, National Identity Management Commission and Hajiya Zubaida Umar, DG, NEMA, among others. 

     Speaking on behalf of the honourees, Attah praised the organisers for a transparent selection process.

    “This recognition speaks not just to my efforts but to the tireless dedication of countless officers in the line of duty,” he said.

    He expressed gratitude to Commandant General Audi for repositioning the NSCDC, and to the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr Dele Alake, for their policy and political support.

     Established in 2018, the Silent Heroes Awards celebrate Nigerians whose contributions often go unnoticed but are crucial to the country’s development.

  • Police arrest three in Ghana over recovered stolen vehicles

    Police arrest three in Ghana over recovered stolen vehicles

    The Nigeria Police Force (NPF), through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Abuja, has recovered and returned multiple vehicles that were stolen within Nigeria and trafficked to neighboring countries.

    Operatives of the INTERPOL NCB Abuja, working in collaboration with INTERPOL NCB Accra, recovered a Toyota Prado (2020 model) in Accra, Ghana.

    The police said the vehicle, which belongs to a Federal Government Agency in Nigeria, was stolen during a robbery incident in Abuja recently.

    Three suspects, the police said, were arrested in Ghana and have since been charged to court in Accra.

    According to a statement issued yesterday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the vehicle was successfully returned back to Nigeria and formally handed over to the concerned agency.

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    He said: “Similarly, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja recovered a Toyota Hilux (2018 model) belonging to another Federal Government agency in Nigeria. The vehicle had been stolen from a staff of the agency in Utako District, FCT Abuja, on 18th October 2024. Through extensive investigation and international cooperation facilitated by INTERPOL NCB Niamey, the vehicle was tracked to Agadez, Niger Republic, and officially handed over at the Nigeria-Niger border (Ilela/Konni) to a senior staff member representing the agency.

    “In a related development, the Nigeria Police Force is finalizing the recovery and return of two additional vehicles – a Toyota Land Cruiser SUV and a Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUV, which were stolen from their owners in Abuja in May 2025 and subsequently sold in Niamey, Niger Republic.

    “The Force hereby encourages all citizens to register their vehicles on the Police Electronic Platforms and take all necessary precautions to enhance the chances of swift recovery in the unfortunate event of theft.

    “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, while commending the proficiency of the operatives involved in these operations, reiterates the commitment of the NPF under his leadership to improved global policing”.

  • Lagos CP redeploys tactical commander, orders probe over N10m ‘bribe’, others 

    Lagos CP redeploys tactical commander, orders probe over N10m ‘bribe’, others 

    The Lagos State Police Commissioner, Olohundare Jimoh, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Commander in charge of Okokomaiko Tactical Squad over allegations of bribery and other wrongdoing.

    His redeployment, according to the police, was to pave the way for an unhindered probe of the allegations levelled against him.

    This is just as the CP constituted a probe panel headed by the Deputy Commissioner (DCP), State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) with the command’s Officer-in-Charge of Legal as a member.

    Charging them to unravel the truth and submit their findings within a week, CP Jimoh, according to a statement by spokesman, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, said the command would not condone any form of corruption, complicity or compromise of investigation and prosecution procedures by any of its officers.

    The Nation gathered that the commander was accused of collecting N10m bribe to alter a seven count charge against suspected cultists arrested on March 19.

    The suspects identified as Tayo Seton, 27; Efe Emakpo, 31; Wisdom Naro, 31, Sodiq Oladimeji, 28; Oluwafunsho Emiloju, 42, and Emmanuel Mashal’m, 19, were alleged to have attempted to rob innocent members of the public while armed with guns, axes and other dangerous weapons on March 19, at Agric area in Ojo.

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    The suspects and others at large, were alleged to be members of the Black Axe cult group terorrising the area.

    Upon their arrest, the suspects were initially arraigned on seven counts of conspiracy, unalwful assembly and attempted armed robbery but the charges against them were later dropped to two counts of conspiracy and conducts likely to cause breach of peace.

    Aggrieved parties in the case were said to have drawn the attention of the CP in the matter which led to the constitution of the probe panel.

    In his statement on Sunday, CSP Hundeyin said, “Following allegations leveled against the Tactical Commander, Okokomaiko bordering on complicity and other wrongdoings in the investigation process and prosecution procedure of six suspects for serious crimes, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has set up a committee of senior officers headed by Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), including the OC Legal of the Command to investigate the allegations and submit findings within a week.

    “Consequent upon this, the Tactical Commander has been transferred out of the tactical squad to pave way for a thorough and unhindered investigation into the allegations in the report. The outcome of the investigation will certainly be made public.

    “The Lagos State Police Command does not support any form of corruption, complicity or compromise of investigation and prosecution procedures by any of its officers. The command will make sure that if the officer involved is found wanting, in anyway, appropriate disciplinary measures will be promptly applied to serve as effective deterrent to others.

    “The Commissioner of Police calls for caution/restraint and therefore implores members of the public to continue to have trust in the police and be assured that every wrongdoing proven against any officer will certainly be redressed,” he added.

  • NGO sensitises people with disabilities on sexual, reproductive health in Ibadan

    NGO sensitises people with disabilities on sexual, reproductive health in Ibadan

    …distribute cash, foods, others in Ibadan

    A non-governmental organization, Voice of Disability Initiative (VDI), in collaboration with the Oyo State chapter of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), has held a one-day sensitization program on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for women and girls with disabilities in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The event was part of the ongoing one-year PAMOJA Project titled “Promoting Integrated People-Centered Approach to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of Women with Disabilities”, funded by AMPLIFYCHANGE.

    More than 100 participants drawn from various disability clusters across the state’s local government areas attended the session.

    They included women with albinism, physical disabilities, hearing and visual impairments, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, intellectual disabilities, and little persons.

    Executive Director of VDI, Barr. Catherine Edeh, who spoke at the event, stressed the need for inclusive healthcare systems that prioritize the unique needs of women and girls with disabilities.

    While commending the Oyo State Government for its legal protections for persons with disabilities, Edeh criticized the lack of Disability Support Desks and Sign Language Interpreters in public hospitals, saying the gap continues to limit access to essential healthcare services.

    She said, “Most organizations carrying out SRHR projects often do not directly engage the people who need them most. For example, a blind woman might benefit from a radio jingle, but the deaf woman won’t. At VDI, we ensure direct engagement through sign language communication and tailored awareness across all disability clusters.”

    Edeh also noted that the project provides a platform for reviewing the National Policy on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, identifying gaps, and recommending improvements to the federal government.

    She, however, urged governor Seyi Makinde to establish Disability Support Desks and employ Sign Language Interpreters in all public health facilities across the state, enforce the 5% employment quota for persons with disabilities as stipulated in the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018, and ensure accessibility compliance in public structures in line with the provisions of the discrimination against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act, 2018.

    In his remark, the Executive Assistant to Governor Makinde on Disability Matters, Timothy Olufemi Sunday commended the initiative and pledged full support towards it.

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    “I commend VDI for this impactful program. Our office is open for collaboration. What we’ve seen here today isn’t audio-based it’s visible impact. We’re also proud that, under Governor Makinde, over 35 persons with disabilities have been appointed into political offices in Oyo State a true reflection of the democracy we’re celebrating today.”

    The VDI’s Program Manager, Edward Ogeyi lamented that poverty and inequality-especially among persons with disabilities-remain battles to be fought consistently through advocacy and empowerment.

    A beneficiary, Mrs. Roseline Temitayo Oniyide, praised Barr. Edeh’s passion and experience, saying “Disability is not a sickness; it’s simply living life differently. This program encourages us to speak out and demand inclusion in community development. We want to be seen, heard, and included.”

    Another participant, Jacob Abiodun, from Abinisim Association of Nigeria (Oyo Chapter), said she gained vital knowledge on her right to sexual health, stressing the importance of speaking up in healthcare settings.

    For Akinshawe Musa Iyanda, the initiative went beyond SRHR education, saying, “They didn’t only give sanitary pads; they recognized that hunger is real and provided food items. We appreciate their holistic support.”

    Also, in attendance was Mr. Ogunjimi Olutoye, Director of Human Programmes, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Oyo State.