The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Ekiti govt hails NBS report on food price drop

    Ekiti govt hails NBS report on food price drop

    Ekiti State Government has welcomed the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), crediting Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s agricultural reforms for the notable easing of food prices in the state.

    The NBS report for August showed food prices in Ekiti dropped by 6.8 per cent month-on-month, while annual food inflation stood at 16.8 per cent, below the national average.

    According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, the positive trend is a direct outcome of the administration’s massive investment in agriculture, youth-focused programmes and private sector collaboration.

    Oyebode cited the ‘Ounje Ekiti’ initiative, managed by Ilu Eye Trading Company, as a key intervention boosting food supply and helping to stabilise prices.

    Read Also: UCL: PSG begin title defence with emphatic 4-0 win over Atalanta

    NBS report also noted that Ekiti recorded the highest inflation rate in the country for August, at 28.2 per cent year-on-year, driven mainly by non-food items such as housing, transport, electricity and other services.

    Acknowledging the challenge, Oyebode said the state government was confident that ongoing reforms in infrastructure, electrification projects and the ease-of-doing-business measures would help moderate the costs in those sectors.

    “The administration remains committed to a data-driven approach and will continue to work with public and private partners to improve the living standards of Ekiti people,” he added.

  • Governor nominates four commissioners

    Governor nominates four commissioners

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has nominated four persons as commissioner-designates.

    Those nominated are Dr. Jerry Uwangue, Kenneth Ihensekhien,  Usenbo Ehigie and Akhigbe John.

    A statement by Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, said names of the nominees would be forwarded to the House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation.

    Edo Assembly had earlier confirmed 12 nominees for Okpebholo.

    The governor has been working with six commissioners since he was sworn in last year.

    Read Also: UCL: PSG begin title defence with emphatic 4-0 win over Atalanta

    The statement said Dr. Uwangue has two decades of experience in Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Operations and Maintenance (EPCOM) services in the oil, gas and power sectors.

    It said Uwangue was renowned for driving business growth, spearheading innovative fabrication projects, and improving operational efficiency.

    “Uwangue is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (FCISM), a recipient of the African Leadership Excellence Award, and Ambassador of the African Union Agenda 2063 for outstanding achievements in business and local content development.”

  • Osun 2026: No plan to defect to ADC, says Adeleke

    Osun 2026: No plan to defect to ADC, says Adeleke

    Ahead of 2026 Osun State governorship election, Governor Ademola Adeleke has denied claim that he is planning to dump Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    He described the claim from a report as untrue, which is a calculated attempt by those afraid of his soaring acceptability to create confusion and uncertainty in the mind of the people.

    A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, said: “We want to reiterate for the umpteenth time that Governor Adeleke remains committed to the PDP and has no plan whatsoever to join the ADC or any party for that matter.

    Read Also: UCL: PSG begin title defence with emphatic 4-0 win over Atalanta

    “Governor Adeleke’s pre-occupation at the moment is the continued delivery of dividends of democracy to Osun people, who gave him their mandates three years ago.”

    The statement added that Adeleke and leaders in the PDP were focused on galvanising the structures of the party for the ongoing voter registration ahead of next year’s election.

    Rasheed said Adeleke was well-positioned to win the 2026 governorship poll.

    He said: “Those behind the latest round of misinformation are trying to latch on the huge goodwill Governor Adeleke enjoys among Osun people to sway support. The unsolicited endorsements of Governor Adeleke are rattling those afraid of the will of the people.

    “We, therefore, urge the public to disregard any report linking Governor Adeleke with a defection move, as such is entirely false. PDP members and supporters of the governor are enjoined not to succumb to the fake news. Instead, they should focus on mobilising votes for his re-election bid under the PDP.”

  • S’Court affirms Aiyedatiwa’s victory in 2024 governorship election

    S’Court affirms Aiyedatiwa’s victory in 2024 governorship election

    • APC hails decision, congratulates governor
    • PDP’s Ajayi withdraws appeal, pledges support

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has called on candidates of the opposition parties to accept their defeat in the November 16, 2024 governorship election and back Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the task of developing the state.

    It said it was time for stakeholders to support the Aiyedatiwa-led administration in its reforms across  sectors aimed at revitalising the economy.

    The call came after the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Agboola Ajayi, formally withdrew his appeal at the Supreme Court against Governor Aiyedatiwa’s election victory.

    Ajayi, who was Aiyedatiwa’s major rival in the election, contested alongside 15 other candidates.

    In a letter to the Chief Registrar of the apex court, he said the decision to discontinue the case was reached after consultations with his family, associates, party members and legal team.

    “After careful deliberation, we have reached a consensus that the appeal should be withdrawn, and I hereby so do. Having served as former deputy governor and legislator, my foremost commitment is to good governance and peaceful coexistence in Ondo State and Nigeria,” Ajayi said in a statement yesterday.

    Reacting, Ondo State APC described the withdrawal as not just a legal closure, but also an endorsement of the people’s mandate freely given to Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    Read Also: UCL: PSG begin title defence with emphatic 4-0 win over Atalanta

    In a statement by its spokesperson, Alex Kalejaye, the party hailed the roles played by the judiciary, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies while the litigation lasted.

    The state Chairman of the party, Ade Adetimehin, congratulated Governor Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Olade Adelami, APC chieftains and residents of Ondo State on what he described as “a well-deserved victory.”

    The Supreme Court yesterday struck out the election petitions filed by three opposition parties- PDP, Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Allied People’s Movement (APM) – against APC’s victory at the polls.

    Speaking yesterday at the Supreme Court in Abuja, Governor Aiyedatiwa said: ‘’Today, at the Supreme Court, Abuja, I secured the final legal victory on the November 16, 2024 governorship election in Ondo State.

    ‘’The court dismissed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) case following its withdrawal by the appellant, Agboola Ajayi.

    ‘’All other cases; SDP and APM, were also dismissed due to the oral application of withdrawal by the appellants’ lawyers.

    ‘’This is unprecedented. All glory to God Almighty.’’

  • OHIS to youths: Don’t expect miracles to change genotype before choosing life partner

    OHIS to youths: Don’t expect miracles to change genotype before choosing life partner

    No fewer than 300 youths in Osun State have undergone free genotype screening organised by Rotary District 9126, as part of efforts to raise awareness on sickle cell disorder and help couples make informed marital choices.

    Speaking at the 2025 Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) held at Fountain University, Osogbo, the Executive Secretary of the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS), Dr. Rasaq Akindele, warned young people and intending couples against relying on ‘miracles’ to change an unfavourable genotype.

    He noted that ignorance about genotype compatibility often results in avoidable cases of sickle cell disorder among children.

    “It is very important to educate young people about sickle cell disease to prevent the error of entering marriage without knowing their genotype,” Akindele said. “SS, SC and, in rare cases, CC are sickle cell genotypes that predispose individuals to painful crises. Knowing your status helps prevent bringing children into such conditions.”

    Read Also: Owan APC leaders rule out third term for Ihonvbere

    He further urged Nigerians to take their health more seriously by knowing their genotype, blood group, and other vital health details before making major life decisions such as marriage, education, or career choices.

    Chairman of RYLA, Mr. Kazeem Oderinu, explained that the week-long programme was designed to build youths in leadership, entrepreneurship, health, and cultural values.

    “We are building young people for future challenges so they won’t become a burden to society. Preparing them for political and social leadership is key to our nation’s development. That is why we included free genotype screening for more than 300 participants.”

    The programme, he added, is part of Rotary’s long-term vision to empower Nigerian youths to make responsible choices and contribute meaningfully to national growth.

  • Tinubu’s aide launches anti-child abuse campaign, workshops in Ogun

    Tinubu’s aide launches anti-child abuse campaign, workshops in Ogun

    In a bid to combat child abuse and related vices, friends and supporters of Alhaji Yusuf Kamorudeen, Personal Assistant on Special Duties to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, under the banner of Kamosky loyalists, have begun a series of workshops and sensitisation programmes for teenagers, teachers, and caregivers.

    One of the workshops took place on Monday in Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, featuring experts in child psychology, behavioural change communication, and faith-based leaders, who shared practical insights on curbing child abuse.

    Lead speaker, Princess Feyikemi Banuso, highlighted the various forms of abuse, including bullying, blackmail, and inappropriate touching, urging teenagers to always speak out when confronted with such threats.

    According to her, “Around here victims of child abuse, molestation including rape face stigma and shame hence many suffer in silence. But we are saying that such a culture of silence would not help the situation but rather would aggravate things. This is why we are carrying out this sensitisation and awareness programme to educate our boy and girl child.

    Read Also: Ogun govt assures Fusengbuwa ruling house of fair process in Awujale selection

    “All we are saying is that you must not tolerate abuse of any kind both from strangers and even from people close to you. You must learn to always speak out because if you don’t speak out you are indirectly empowering your abusers. So you must learn to speak out,” she stressed.

    ‎Other speakers also gave career pep talks thus encouraging the teenagers to aspire to become responsible citizens and prepare to contribute their own quota to the development of the society.

    The highpoint of the occasion was the donation of stationery to participants at the palace of the Olota of Ota, Oba Professor Adeyemi Abdulkabir Obalanlege.

  • Lagos House decries unconfirmed appointees

    Lagos House decries unconfirmed appointees

    • House pushes for financial autonomy of council legislatures

    Lagos State House of Assembly has taken a strong stance in ensuring government appointees follow due process.

    It has directed the Accountant General to stop payment of salaries and allowances to nominees, who were not screened and confirmed before taking office.

    It has also directed the Head of Service to report before the House Committee of Legislative Compliance for clarification on why some political appointees assumed office without the statutory approval.

    The member representing Ajeromi Ifelodun I Constituency, Mr. Lukman Olumoh, lamented that agencies whose heads were not screened often resisted oversight, sometimes claiming they were not under the Assembly’s supervision.

    He noted that some MDAs were operating illegally without legislative confirmation of their leaders.

    Speaker Mudashiru Obasa expressed displeasure that the matter had become a recurring issue, stressing that it was wrong for the executive to disregard legislative authority.

    READ ALSO: The INEC chairman as kingmaker

    The assembly called Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to direct the Head of Service, Bode Agoro, to withdraw letters of appointment issued to heads of agencies who assumed office without legislative confirmation.

    Lawmakers in Lagos State House of Assembly have deliberated on a motion to grant financial autonomy to the legislative arms of local governments and local council development areas.

    The House resolved to call on Governor Sanwo-Olu to direct the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development to develop a framework for independent funding of legislative councils.

    This was deliberated extensively during plenary.

    The motion titled: “Need to Grant Financial Autonomy to the Legislative Arm of the Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas in the State”, was moved by Sanni Babatunde, chairman, Committee on Local Government Administration, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.

  • Abiru hails Gumel on appointment

    Abiru hails Gumel on appointment

    Senator Tokunbo Abiru representing Lagos East Senatorial District has congratulated Mr. Farouk Gumel on his appointment as chairman of the newly established Botswana Sovereign Wealth Fund.

    Abiru, the chairman of Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance & Other Financial Institutions, described the appointment as “a landmark achievement.”

    He praised Gumel’s record in financial leadership, governance and transparency, noting his outstanding service as former chairman of Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority.

    READ ALSO: A way out for the North

    “This role is historic and strategic for Botswana,” Abiru said.

    “Farouk’s visionary leadership and commitment to financial stability—proven during his instrumental role in the restructuring of Skye Bank and other national assignments—will be invaluable as Botswana charts a more diversified and sustainable economic future.”

    The lawmaker emphasised the broader significance of the appointment:

    “At a time when Nigeria is undertaking bold reforms to strengthen its financial institutions, this global recognition of a Nigerian expertise reflects positively on our country and underscores the continent-wide impact of capable leadership.”

    He wished Gumel a successful tenure.

  • RTEAN hails Olubadan-designate

    RTEAN hails Olubadan-designate

    Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Oyo State branch, has described the emergence of former governor of the state, Sen. Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, as God ordained.

    It said Oba Ladoja’s emergence was divine, particularly at a time traditional institutions in Yoruba land needed repositioning and transformation.

    A statement by Oyo RTEAN Chairman, Otunba Desmond Oguntuga and Secretary, Adeyemi Olusola, said Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan was not just a celebration and fulfilment for Ibadan land, but also Yoruba race and the nation at large.

    The duo joined well-wishers and indigenes of Ibadan land to extend congratulations to the Olubadan-designate.

    RTEAN said the emergence of the former governor as Olubadan-designate was a blessing, heart-warming, inspiring and a good thing to the socio-cultural and economic progress of Ibadan land and Southwest.

    “Sen. Ladoja’s excellent journey in politics, governance, community service, business, among others, has prepared him with the wisdom, leadership qualities and experience needed to steer the affairs of Ibadan land to greater heights.”

    READ ALSO: The INEC chairman as kingmaker

    The association said the Olubadan-designate’s reputation for fairness, humility and commitment to the welfare of the people made him an icon of hope, not only for the traditional institution in Oyo State, but also across Nigeria, going by his wide acceptability.

    “On behalf of the entire members of our association in Oyo State, we celebrate Oba Ladoja and pray for a successful and lasting reign that will promote unity, tourism and development in Ibadan land.

    “We assure our revered Kabiyesi of our continued support for initiatives under his leadership, aimed at fostering cultural exchange, tourism promotion and economic empowerment for the people of Oyo State and the Yoruba nation.”

  • Oyo govt, UNICEF launch project

    Oyo govt, UNICEF launch project

    Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), International Labour Organisation (ILO) and European Union (EU), has launched the implementation process of the Support to a Sustainable Social Protection System Project (EUSUSI) in Oyo State.

    The initiative, which is being piloted in four states Abia, Benue, Oyo, Sokoto including FCT, aims to build a more resilient, inclusive and shock-responsive social protection system for Nigeria’s most vulnerable groups, including children, the poorest households, displaced persons and people living with disabilities.

    The event was held at the Executive Council Chambers of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

    The Chief of UNICEF’s Southwest Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, who represented UNICEF Country Representative, Ms.Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef, said the EU-funded project would strengthen social protection systems at the national and state levels.

    She noted that UNICEF had engaged Economic Policy Research Institute (EPRI) to review National Social Registry (NSR) and social protection policies.

    READ ALSO: A way out for the North

    She said: “Through this support, UNICEF has commissioned reviews to improve the coverage, accuracy and efficiency of identifying Nigeria’s poor and vulnerable. These assessments will provide concrete recommendations to enhance inclusivity, efficiency and resilience of Nigeria’s social protection systems, with special emphasis on child sensitivity and shock responsiveness.”

    Speaking on behalf of the state government, Acting Governor Bayo Lawal described the programme as “a landmark achievement to promote social inclusion and advance sustainable development in Oyo State.”

    He lauded EU, UNICEF and ILO for their support and highlighted the state’s efforts to reduce poverty.

    ILO Regional Project Manager, Guite Diop, who represented ILO Country Director, Ms. Vanessa Phala, said the collaboration was essential to ensure no one was left behind.

    Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, recalled that the state had been working on the framework of social protection since the Covid-19 pandemic.

    Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetumobi and Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Toyin Balogun, said under the Governor Seyi Makinde led administration, the state was laying a strong foundation for a population that was climate resilient through interventions of the state government.