The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Adeleke frees 36 convicts to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

    Adeleke frees 36 convicts to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

    Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered the release of 36 inmates convicted for various offences in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

    The governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, disclosed on Wednesday that the beneficiaries, serving sentences at the Nigerian Correctional Service facilities in Ilesa and Ile-Ife, were freed under the constitutional powers vested in the governor by Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, based on the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

    In a proclamation dated September 24, 2025, and issued under his hand and the Public Seal of Osun State, Governor Adeleke formally granted amnesty to the listed convicts under the state’s jurisdiction.

     “I, Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, the Governor of Osun State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by Paragraph (a) Subsection (1) of Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), and acting in accordance with the Advisory Council of State designated under Subsection (2) of the said Section, am graciously pleased to extend my mercy to the said thirty-six (36) convicts.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    “By this act, I remit and release unto them all pains, penalties, and punishments whatsoever that may have accrued from their convictions, and I hereby require all to whom it may concern to take due notice thereof.

    “This shall be a sufficient warrant. Given under my hand and the Public Seal of Osun State, Nigeria, this 24th day of September, 2025.”

    He noted that beneficiaries of this Independence Day amnesty include men and women convicted mostly of minor offences such as stealing and conspiracy, many of whom had served substantial portions of their sentences.

    Rasheed noted that Adeleke emphasized that the decision reflects the spirit of compassion, justice, and renewal, which Nigeria’s Independence Day represents:

    “As a government of the people, we remain committed to upholding justice while extending mercy to deserving citizens. This amnesty is not only a gesture of freedom but also a call for true rehabilitation, reintegration, and a fresh start for these individuals,” the governor said.

  • Olubadan Ladoja tours official palace, meets council members

    Olubadan Ladoja tours official palace, meets council members

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Wednesday embarked on a familiarisation tour of his official palace at Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, ahead of his planned relocation into the magnificent edifice.

    The visit marked the first official assignment of the newly crowned 44th Olubadan, who ascended the throne last Friday in a historic coronation at Mapo Hall.

    Before the tour, Oba Ladoja held a meeting with members of the Olubadan-in-Council, after which he was conducted around the palace by aides.

    The inspection was aimed at assessing the state of the infrastructure and acquainting the monarch with the palace facilities.

    A palace aide, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the monarch expressed satisfaction with the condition of the palace after touring its various departments.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Oba Ladoja is expected to move into the official palace once the coronation activities are concluded. 

    He will be the second Olubadan to reside in the palace, following his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who broke tradition by becoming the first to rule from there instead of a private residence.

    As part of the ongoing coronation events, a special Jumat service will be held on Friday at Oja’ba Central Mosque, while the ceremonies will conclude with the Isese traditional rites on Saturday.

  • Nigeria @65: Abiru salutes Nigerians’ resilience, steadfastness

    Nigeria @65: Abiru salutes Nigerians’ resilience, steadfastness

    The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has commended Nigerians for their resilience and steadfastness as the nation marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

    In his Independence Day message, Abiru emphasised that Nigeria’s rich diversity must continue to serve as a source of unity and strength, rather than division.

    He urged citizens to reject divisive rhetoric, intolerance, and actions capable of undermining national cohesion, stressing that the country’s future rests on the collective resolve of its people to work together in peace and progress.

    Senator Abiru, who chairs both the Southern Senators’ Forum and the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, also called for increased support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He noted that the President’s bold reforms are gradually yielding the desired outcomes.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    The Senator’s statement reads, “Today, as we mark the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved nation, I join millions of compatriots in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and enduring spirit. Despite the economic, social, and political hurdles before us, our dear nation remains a beacon of hope on the African continent.

    “Our diversity — with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages — is our greatest asset. Under the green-and-white flag, we must continue to strengthen our unity, guard against actions that deepen our national fault lines, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building.

    “I equally appeal to all Nigerians to continue to stand solidly with our esteemed leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as he provides bold and focused leadership that is clearly redirecting our country toward enduring sustainable development and economic growth.

    “The administration’s major policies have already begun to yield positive results. The harmonization of the foreign exchange market, among other laudable reforms, has helped to curb spiraling inflation, boost investor confidence, and lay the groundwork for a stable economic environment where enterprises can thrive — ultimately leading to shared prosperity.

    “This is not the time to give up on Nigeria. It is precisely at moments like this that our unity, resilience, and patriotism matter most. With determination and a shared sense of purpose, I am confident that we will emerge as a stronger and more prosperous nation — not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.”

  • Nigeria @65: Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu as visionary leader steering Nigeria’s progress

    Nigeria @65: Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu as visionary leader steering Nigeria’s progress

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has described Nigeria as fortunate to have President Bola Tinubu at the helm of affairs, commending his bold economic reforms and developmental strides.

    Speaking on Wednesday at the 65th Independence Day celebration held at the Arcade Ground in Akure, Aiyedatiwa said Nigeria is on the right path under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He added, “Our country is blessed at a time like this to have a visionary leader like His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “We must continue to appreciate Mr. President for his bold economic reforms, social re-engineering, and massive infrastructural development.

    “Indications are that Nigeria is certainly making progress and on the path of glory under the Renewed Hope Initiatives,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Reflecting on the essence of Independence Day, the governor urged Nigerians to remember the courage of the nation’s founding fathers and to draw lessons from the country’s journey since 1960.

    “This celebration is not just about remembering a date in history. It is about reflecting on our journey as a people. Independence gave us more than self-rule – it gave us the dignity of identity, the right to dream as Nigerians, and the opportunity to chart a course for our future,” he noted.

    Aiyedatiwa said his administration has remained committed to its promises under the ‘OUR EASE’ agenda, highlighting key projects across the state, including the dualisation and rehabilitation of roads, improvements in the health sector, bursaries and scholarships for indigent students, and support for security agencies.

    “None of these projects and programmes would have been possible without your trust, patience, and support. To the good people of Ondo State who believe in this administration, and even to those who watch silently, I say thank you,” the governor said.

    He further urged the people to remain optimistic, resilient, and united in the face of challenges, stressing the need for peace, love, and hard work in building a prosperous nation.

    “Let me assure you, in the coming months, you will see more progress. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember that freedom comes with responsibility. We must remain united as a people, committed to peace, and focused on building a better future.

    “Ondo State is moving forward, Nigeria is moving forward; the sun of a new dawn is rising over our state. Let us walk together into that dawn with love, diligence, courage, and faith,” he concluded.

  • Olubadan: Ladoja meets Sunday Igboho, promises intervention over his trial

    Olubadan: Ladoja meets Sunday Igboho, promises intervention over his trial

    The new Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has held a closed-door meeting with Yoruba nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, at his Bodija residence, promising to intervene in the activist’s ongoing challenges.

    According to a statement from Igboho’s media office, the meeting, which lasted about 40 minutes on Monday, focused on insecurity in the southwest and emerging threats by bandits in parts of Kwara state.

    A source disclosed that Oba Ladoja, who received Igboho and his supporters warmly, assured him of his intervention regarding his current ordeals with the federal government.

    During the visit, Igboho congratulated the monarch on his ascension to the throne, describing him as a leader loved across Ibadan, Yorubaland, and beyond.

    He also expressed his willingness to work with the Federal Government to strengthen security in the South West, stressing that peace and stability are essential for development.

    “Olubadan has been a father figure to me since his days as the former governor of Oyo State. I commend Kabiyesi’s leadership qualities, humility, and enduring influence.

    “I have always seen Oba Ladoja as a father figure. His reign as Olubadan will no doubt further promote peace, unity, and development in Ibadanland and the entire Yorubaland.”

  • Ondo youths empower 40 young entrepreneurs with start-up tools, financial support

    Ondo youths empower 40 young entrepreneurs with start-up tools, financial support

    The Akoko Youths Forum (AYF) in Ondo State has launched the distribution of business start-up tools and financial support to empower over 40 young entrepreneurs, in a bid to tackle unemployment and boost economic growth across Akokoland.

    The empowerment programme held in Ugbe Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area, formed part of the activities at the Forum’s annual summit, which attracted young business owners and community stakeholders.

    President of the Forum, Engr. Blessing James Akeju described the initiative as a milestone in the Forum’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic development.

    “Today represents a historic moment in the history of this organization. We have been able to change the lives of 40 young persons in Akoko by empowering them to build a life for themselves,” Akeju said, stressing that the support would enable beneficiaries to expand their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

    He further lauded the resilience of Akoko youths and assured them of the continued support of the Forum’s national executives.

    Chairman of the Planning Committee, Regent Tinuade Babalola, represented by Prince Temitope Obamuwagun, urged the youths to embrace peace and unity, noting that the development of Akoko depends largely on their collective resolve to work together.

    Guest speaker at the summit, Dr. Bayo Fasunwon challenged the youths to maximize their talents, steer clear of vices such as cultism and internet fraud, and make meaningful contributions to their communities and academic pursuits.

    He also reiterated his call for the creation of Ose State, which he argued would accelerate development and economic growth in the region.

    Also speaking, the Chairman of Akoko North-East Local Government Area, Hon. Mutiu Olawale Mohammed, applauded the AYF leadership for initiating the empowerment scheme, which he said aligns with his vision of seeing young people thrive and live decently in society.

  • FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    Leaders of the Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organizations in Nigeria (FASON) on Sunday paid royal homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

    The delegation, led by FASON National Amir Sheikh Tajudeen Abdul Kareem Al Adabiyy, included the West Africa President of JIBWIS Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, National Vice President of the Supreme Council for Shari’a in Nigeria Sheikh Isa Solahudeen Akindele, and other prominent Islamic scholars.

    They were joined by traditional rulers such as Oba Abdul Azeez Olatubosun Adebanji, the Akire of Ikire Ile, and Oba Qazeem Ilufemiloye I, the Olowu of Owu Ile, alongside academics including Professor Mutiullah Olasupo of the University of Abuja.

    Sheikh Al Adabiyy said the visit was to offer prayers for the monarchs’ long life and successful reigns. Akindele, in his remarks, also appealed to the Olubadan to help curb land-grabbing challenges in Ibadanland.

     “We pray to Almighty God to grant you a long time and good health. We pray to God to give you the wisdom to direct the affairs successfully.

    He said, “God will allow you to implement the good visions you have for this city and Nigeria in general. Many things that are not good are happening in the city, such as land grabbing. You have said that you will tackle these problems, God will give you the wisdom to do it”.

    READ ALSO: 2027: ex-President Jonathan just one of our options, says PDP

    During the visit to the Alaafin, Sheik Al Adabiyy informed that the visit became necessary to pray for the traditional rulers.

    While in Oyo, the group was received by the Khadeemul Musleemuun of Oyo Kingdom, Sheikh Daud Tijani Igi Ogun, and Aare Musulumi of Oyo, Alhaji Kamarise, in a brief but colourful reception at the JIBWIS group of school, a multilingual event anchored by Sheikh Tajudeen Imam of Prince and Princess Central Mosque, Abuja.

    Sheik Al Adabiyy, while speaking, said, “We have come from different parts of the country; we have people who came from Abuja and other parts of the country here. The purpose of the visits is to pray for you for a long life and a successful reign

    “We are here to greet you, we are here to pray for you. We have been doing it when you were not there, we are now doing it in your presence. What we want is for God to grant you a long life”.

    The Olubadan and the Alaafin, in their separate remarks, said that they were happy to receive the leaders of the Islamic organisation.

    They thanked the organisation for the visit.

    They urged them to continue in their prayers to promote peaceful coexistence in the country.

  • Ex-Colonel Arogundade dies at 80

    Ex-Colonel Arogundade dies at 80

    Colonel Emmanuel Ola Arogundade (Rtd)is dead.

    He died in the early hours of Friday September 19, 2025, according to a statement on behalf of the family by David Seyi Arogundade.

    It reads “ It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father, grandfather, brother Colonel Emmanuel Ola Arogundade (rtd) whose kindness, love, and impact touched many lives”

    Read Also: UPDATED: Retired DIG Perry Osayande dies at 88

    “Please keep us in your prayers as we mourn his demise in this period. Further announcements will be made public in due course.”

  • Onigbongbo set to become gateway of tourism, hospitality in Lagos – Adebanjo

    Onigbongbo set to become gateway of tourism, hospitality in Lagos – Adebanjo

    Chairman of Onigbongbo LCDA in Lagos, Hon. Moyosore Adebanjo, has reaffirmed the council’s commitment to positioning Onigbongbo as the gateway of tourism and hospitality in Lagos.

    Speaking at the Tourism and Hospitality Symposium, the Chairman highlighted Onigbongbo’s unique role as the first point of contact for many visitors arriving in Lagos, with its thriving hospitality sector along Allen, Opebi, Toyin, Kudirat Abiola, and Ikeja GRA. 

    He emphasised that tourism is not just leisure but a catalyst for sustainable economic growth, aligning with his administration’s F.I.N.E Agenda — Foster economic growth, Invest in people, Nurture enterprise, and Ensure wellbeing.

    READ ALSO: Massive turnout for CVR shows Nigerians’ confidence in electoral process, says INEC

    Adebanjo announced the upcoming Onigbongbo Spark Fest 2025, a landmark yuletide festival designed to light up our cityscape, attract visitors, and transform Onigbongbo into a yuletide destination to rival Victoria Island and Lekki. 

    He also unveiled plans for a digital hospitality directory powered by QR codes, which will be placed at airports and strategic locations across Lagos, offering visitors access to local hotels, restaurants, and nightlife operators with a 10% discount incentive.

    The Chairman assured tourism and hospitality stakeholders of the government’s readiness to collaborate with the private sector in driving visibility, investment, and growth, stating: “Together, we will make tourism the heartbeat of development in Onigbongbo LCDA.”

  • Olu-Alo hails Nigeria at 65, Ekiti at 29

    Olu-Alo hails Nigeria at 65, Ekiti at 29

    …Charges Nigerians on sacrifice, national development

    A popular preacher, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has congratulated Nigerians and President Bola Tinubu on the 65th independence anniversary.

    He called on Nigerians to always make necessary sacrifices that would help the country to attain greatness.

    Olu-Alo, who is the planter of of CAC Adamimogo, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain World-wide, also congratulated Ekiti people and Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the 24th year of the creation of Ekiti State.

    The cleric in his goodwill message by his Personal Assistant, Hon. Deji Ogunbusuyi, said Nigeria remained one indivisible entity despite the political and ethnic forces differences of its people, urging Nigerians to continually pray and make concerted efforts to ensure the nation’s upliftment.

    Olu-Alo, who described Nigerians as resilient people, said all hands must be on deck in building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation, adding that citizens must eschew divisive tendencies at this time that we need to stand and live together as brothers.

    He urged all Nigerians to participate actively and constructively in the process of nation-building for the country to get over all her challenges.

    While congratulating Ekiti people on the 29th anniversary of the creation of the State, he said a better and well-developed State should remain paramount in the hearts of the citizens.

    “I therefore call on the Ekitis, both at home and abroad, to support and join hands with the government in repositioning the state and ensure its all-round development of the State.

    “The task of rebuilding and repositioning the state is a collective effort and through our cooperation, a truly prosperous state would be built and we shall put it firmly on the path of honour and irreversible development,” he stated.

    He urged the people not to relent in praying for the both administrations to be able to make life better for the people.

    The preacher appealed to all political parties and residents of Ekiti state to conduct themselves peacefully in their forthcoming parties governorship primary elections.

    In a separate statement, the cleric also congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja on his recent coronation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

    Prophet Olu-Alo, who is founder of Adamimogo FM Nigeria and the owner of Adamimogo 105:1 FM, Ibadan in Oyo State and others in Southwest, said the momentous occasion marks a significant milestone in the history of Ibadan’s traditional institution.

    While also rejoicing with the monarch on his birthday celebration, the cleric said: “Your ascension to the throne is a testament to your leadership qualities and dedication to the well-being of your people. As a former Governor of Oyo State, you have demonstrated exceptional governance skills, and your experience will undoubtedly shape your reign as Olubadan.

    “I pray God will grant you wisdom and knowledge to lead and guide the people as well as giving you sound health as you embark on this new chapter. May your reign be marked by peace, prosperity, and the continued growth of Ibadanland”.