The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Ondo govt okays transfer of Akure hospital to FUTA Teaching Hospital

    Ondo govt okays transfer of Akure hospital to FUTA Teaching Hospital

    Ondo State Executive Council has approved the transfer of University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) Teaching Hospital complex in Akure to Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), to serve as its College of Medicine and Teaching Hospital.

    Briefing reporters after the Council meeting, presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on September 11, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, said the move followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for FUTA to establish a college of medicine and a teaching hospital.

    He said the Akure hospital complex would be ceded to the Federal Government to serve as FUTA’s main medical sciences facility.

    “The handover includes the transfer of workers, infrastructure, equipment and liabilities. All employees will be absorbed into FUTA Teaching Hospital under the Federal Government,” Ajaka said.

    READ ALSO: Five fun ways to spark children’s love for reading

    The development, according to the Council, is expected to strengthen health care delivery in Ondo State, while advancing FUTA’s ambition to become a leading centre for medical sciences in Nigeria.

    Also at the news briefing, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, announced new measures approved by the Council to protect farmers from the impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which bans crops cultivated from deforested areas.

    He said the government had approved agroforestry practices across selected forests, while ensuring reserved areas remained intact.

    ‘’Cocoa, cashew, oil palm and rubber farmers will be permitted to continue operations under strict mapping and traceability systems.

    “By December 30, any crop that cannot be traced to a mapped farm risks being rejected at the EU market. To safeguard livelihoods, the state will support farm mapping and grant farmers permits to continue operations,” Akinola added.

    The Council also approved a review of tariffs across agricultural produce and timber value chains, aligning Ondo with other Southwest states under the DAWN Commission framework.

    Information Commissioner Mr Idowu Ajanaku clarified that each Council member had been directed to nominate a road project in his local government to impact communities directly.

    He stressed that the initiative was not for private or partisan interests, but to ensure equitable development across the 18 local governments.

     “These roads are outside the 2025 budgeted projects. They are supplementary interventions to touch communities and enhance connectivity,” Ajanaku added.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Hamidu Takuro, said the Council also ratified the appointment of Joseph Ilesanmi as the monarch of Sosan in Akoko Southeast Local Government.

  • Ajimobi’s wife hails tech-u student for winning global competition at Cambridge

    Ajimobi’s wife hails tech-u student for winning global competition at Cambridge

    Dr. Florence Ajimobi, wife of the late former Governor of Oyo State and founder of Technical University (now Abiola Ajimobi Technical University), has celebrated the recent feat of Miss Daniella Bimbo Kolade, a student of the institution, who emerged overall winner of a prestigious team project competition at a boot camp held at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.

    Mrs. Ajimobi described the achievement as both a journey of pride and a testament to her husband’s vision in establishing the university.

    Speaking on behalf of the Senator Abiola Ajimobi Foundation (SAAF) and the family, she said the recognition filled her with immense pride and joy, while commending the management of the institution and Miss Kolade’s family.

    The SAAF President further noted that Miss Kolade’s victory was not just a personal milestone but a historic moment for the university, underscoring its global potential and impact.

    Read Also: Tinubu urges faith leaders to promote harmony, reconciliation across Nigeria

    “This news, shared by the acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Babatunde Gbadamosi, filled me with an emotion that is difficult to put into words. To see a student from the institution born from my husband’s vision excel on a global stage such as Cambridge is the most fulfilling validation of his dream.

    “Senator Abiola Ajimobi envisioned Tech-U as a cradle of innovation, a place where brilliant young minds would be nurtured to become problem-solvers and leaders, not just for Nigeria, but for the world.

    “Daniela’s display of exceptional creativity, teamwork, and leadership is the living, breathing manifestation of that vision. She has not only made history but has also set a powerful standard of excellence for every student who will pass through the halls of Tech-U.

    “I congratulate the entire management and staff of Tech-U, under the guidance of the Vice-Chancellor, for their unwavering commitment to academic excellence and for creating an environment that empowers students to soar. Your dedication is what turns vision into reality.

    “To the proud family of Miss Daniela Kolade, I say a big congratulations. Thank you for entrusting Tech-U with your brilliant daughter and for supporting her to this point of global acclaim.

    “This achievement is a testament to the fact that the legacy of Senator Abiola Ajimobi is alive, well, and thriving. It is a legacy built on the unshakable belief in the potential of our youth. As we celebrate Daniela, we are also reminded that the future of our nation is bright when we invest in quality education and purposeful leadership. May this remarkable win be the first of many more to come”.

  • Obi visits Ladoja, hails Ibadan’s strategic role in Nigeria’s development

    Obi visits Ladoja, hails Ibadan’s strategic role in Nigeria’s development

    The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, on Sunday visited the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, alongside former Lagos LP governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, and national coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko.

    During the visit, Obi described Ibadan as strategic and central to Nigeria’s political, social, and economic development. He said his homage to the Olubadan-designate was rooted in respect for the city’s historic and ongoing importance to the nation.

    Read Also: MSport 2025: Nigeria’s #1 Sports Betting Site, Powered by Chelsea & BVB

    Obi expressed confidence that Oba Ladoja, as a former senator, governor, and successful businessman, would bring his wealth of experience to elevate Ibadan to greater heights.

    “The visit is about Nigeria and selfless leadership—leadership that is committed to turning society around. Ibadan has always been strategic to Nigeria’s growth, and as Olubadan, Oba Ladoja has all it takes to succeed. I will support him for the sake of one Nigeria,” Obi said.

    He also highlighted Ibadan’s educ

  • Widow of slain Ibadan journalist cries out for support

    Widow of slain Ibadan journalist cries out for support

    Mrs. Olubunmi Peters, widow of slain Ibadan journalist, Ojo Peters, has lamented the gruesome killing of her husband in a daylight armed robbery a few weeks ago in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

    She revealed that the untimely death of her husband has plunged the family into deep emotional and financial hardship, appealing to the Oyo state government and the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, for urgent assistance during this trying period.

    The late Ojo Peters, publisher of Daily Monitor online newspaper and media aide to Sat Guru Maharaj Ji, was shot dead on August 18, 2025, in Oke-Ado, Ibadan, after being trailed from a bank where he withdrew N10,000.

    Receiving a condolence delegation from Maharaj Ji at their residence, Mrs. Peters, alongside her two daughters, Blessing (15) and Ajibola (9), broke down in tears as she recounted how her husband was shot three times by gunmen who followed him on a motorcycle.

    According to police accounts from a nearby vulcanizer who witnessed the incident, the assailants accosted Peters immediately after he alighted from a motorcycle, before fleeing the scene.

    She said, “We were told that one of the robbers came down from the bike and demanded that my husband give him the cross bag he was carrying. As a man, my husband initially challenged the audacity of the robber, but when the robber showed him a gun, he voluntarily gave the cross bag to him.

    “Immediately the armed robber collected the cross bag, he threw it to the other one on the bike. Ojo wanted to run away from the scene, but the armed robber released a bullet and shot him three times in the stomach. 

    “I was told that my husband fell into a drainage as he was struggling to call for help. There was nobody to rescue him, as everybody had run for safety. It was after over an hour that people came back to the scene and found him grappling with life. Nobody could touch him because of the fear of police case.

     “They had to call the police. By the time the police arrived, my husband had lost a lot of blood; they met him holding his stomach where the bullets hit him. They arranged to take him to a nearby hospital, but before getting to the hospital, he gave up the ghost.

    “That is how they suddenly turned me into a widow. My husband left home going for his duties as a journalist; I didn’t know that I wouldn’t see him again. He was the breadwinner of the family; he has now left our two daughters for me.

     “He loved his children so much; he wanted the best for them. Now, he is no more. I’m only helping someone to sell day-old chicks at Obasanjo Farm on Mondays and Thursdays. The Oyo State Government should please come to our aid; the Oyo NUJ should please assist the family he has left behind.”

    Tears rolled uncontrollably from the faces of Maharaj Ji’s delegates, journalists, and sympathisers who visited Late Ojo’s residence as they saw a painting that 9-year-old Ajibola made to mourn the demise of her father.

     As Ajibola joined her mother to weep profusely, she showed the painting made on white paper with the symbol of love and an inscription “Rest in Peace Dad RIP”.

  • TBS set to restore Remembrance Arcade, Independence Garden

    TBS set to restore Remembrance Arcade, Independence Garden

    The Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board has disclosed its plans and commitment to preserving Nigeria’s rich heritage and honouring the country’s national symbols.

    As part of efforts to safeguard national heritage and provide a befitting venue for civic events, the board announced that it will inaugurate the Remembrance Arcade and Independence Garden in October 2025.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, Managing Director of the TBS Management Board, Lucia Shittu, said the initiative, which will also coincide with this year’s Independence Day, is part of a broader effort to restore the glory of TBS as a national heritage site and reposition it as a major hub for both local and international tourism.

    She explained that the redesigned site would serve as a premier tourist destination, offering a variety of activities and experiences for all visitors.

    According to Shittu, Lafarge Africa will complete the first phase of the park’s redevelopment on or before the Independence Day celebration.

    She added that beyond the park and arcade, TBS is also working to integrate forward-looking initiatives such as an e-sports and entrepreneurship skills hub for Nigerian youths.

    The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said the restoration of the Independence site demonstrates the current administration’s commitment to cultural renewal and national development.

    “Nigeria will be hosting the International African Trade Fair (IATF) in 2027, and this marks the beginning of the transformation we are going to see in Lagos State, especially with improvements in infrastructure and facilities at the National Theatre. This is a foretaste of more to come, with visible uplift and facelift ahead of IATF,” she said.

    Supporting this, the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said that upon completion of the rehabilitation to create an Independence Memorial Obelisk Garden, the site would be open to the public as a premier tourist attraction, adding to the vibrancy of Lagos.

    With the project expected to be delivered by October 7, 2025, he said the first phase will focus on structural integrity, aesthetics, safety, and accessibility.

    He explained, “The activities will involve a revamp of the monument while preserving the original design and texture; restoration of inscriptions, engravings, and symbolic carvings on the Obelisk; and rehabilitation of its immediate surroundings, including walkways, lawns, and paving. We will also install a drainage system and improved accessibility features, including ramps and pedestrian pathways.

    “We take pride in this project because it is the preservation of Nigeria’s historical and cultural heritage, which should be passed down to future generations. It also allows us to promote sustainability and better living through the use of our eco-friendly cement products, which offer at least 30 per cent lower carbon emissions, thereby reducing environmental impact.”

  • Tinubu’s support group empowers 350 Ondo indigenes to boost local business, trade

    Tinubu’s support group empowers 350 Ondo indigenes to boost local business, trade

    A support group for President Bola Tinubu, BTO4PBAT2027, has empowered no fewer than 350 indigenes of Ondo State with cash to boost their businesses and trade.

    Speaking at the weekend in Arigidi Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of the state, the Director-General of the group, Adesuyi Adojutelegan, said the initiative was designed to uplift enterprising citizens and support their businesses in driving economic growth.

    According to him, the cash reward also aims to meet the immediate needs of grassroots residents who require the government’s attention.

    Adojutelegan explained that the programme, which enjoys the backing of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda of connecting citizens to government policies and ensuring they benefit from the dividends of democracy.

    “The cash empowerment initiative was a key highlight aimed at addressing immediate community needs and igniting hope among local residents.

    “We believe this will help them, even if in a small way, to cater for their immediate needs,” he said.

    He lauded President Tinubu for implementing economic reforms that have enhanced grassroots development, boosted local businesses, and reduced excessive taxation.

    Describing the president as “a leader who has brought rapid development to the country,” Adojutelegan noted that the group is committed to working towards Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

    “With unwavering commitment to the continued progress of our nation, this movement is geared towards the re-election of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    “Proudly sponsored by Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Honourable Minister of Interior, this event was a resounding success, bringing together passionate supporters, community leaders, and citizens united for a greater Nigeria,” he added.

    He further urged eligible youths to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise, stressing that their votes remain a fundamental right.

    “I want to encourage our people in the Southwest to take advantage of online registration. If you just turned eighteen, it’s time to register. Your vote is your right, and you can only participate in the election with your voter card,” Adojutelegan said.

    Also speaking, the spokesperson of BTO4PBAT2027, Folajimi Adewumi, praised Minister Tunji-Ojo for his commitment to ensuring Tinubu’s re-election.

    “Tunji-Ojo, apart from being a star figure who has spearheaded rapid development in the Interior Ministry, is working tirelessly to secure President Tinubu’s victory in 2027,” Adewumi stated.

    He reaffirmed that the group is determined to strengthen grassroots support and mobilize voters towards a successful re-election bid for President Tinubu.

  • Ex-student leader Ogunwoye joins APC, vows to mobilise for Tinubu’s re-election 

    Ex-student leader Ogunwoye joins APC, vows to mobilise for Tinubu’s re-election 

    Former student leader and founder of OGS Foundation, Ogunwoye Gbemiga Samson, popularly known as Ogunsamson or OGS, has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside more than 3,000 supporters in Ogo-Oluwa/Surulere Federal Constituency, Oyo State.

    The declaration, held on Friday at IresaPupa, drew a mammoth crowd and party leaders across the state, which observers described as one of the largest political gatherings in the constituency in recent years.

    Widely respected for his activism and humanitarian work through the OGS Foundation, Ogunwoye said his defection followed extensive consultations and was driven by his conviction that the APC offers the best platform for sustainable development and inclusive governance.

    “This step is not one taken in haste. I am persuaded that the APC represents the ideals of progress and good governance. Our commitment is to strengthen the party at the grassroots, mobilise across Oyo and Nigeria, and extend our efforts globally,” he stated.

    Read Also: APC chieftain hails Tinubu’s economic reforms

    He also urged APC leaders at both state and national levels to create more opportunities for youth participation in politics, stressing that involving young people in elective and appointive positions would strengthen the party and ensure innovation in governance.

    Ogunwoye applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as tough but necessary economic reforms, noting that with time, Nigerians would see the full benefits of the President’s policies.

    “The President is on the right track, and we must continue to support him,” he declared.

    He further pledged to mobilise his structure and network to deliver overwhelming support for the APC and assured that he would work towards President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

    He said his movement would serve as a rallying point for consolidating the gains of the current administration and ensuring continuity of progressive governance.

    Party leaders hailed his defection as a major boost for the progressives. Hon. Bode Akanni of Surulere Local Government described it as “a big victory” for the APC.

    He added that OGS’s popularity and reputation would further consolidate the party’s dominance.

    Another chieftain added, “This is a political game-changer. His credibility and grassroots appeal are exactly what the party needs as we prepare for the challenges ahead.”

  • OPEF urges support for Dangote Refinery, calls for transparent competition in oil sector

    OPEF urges support for Dangote Refinery, calls for transparent competition in oil sector

    The Oduduwa Progressive Economic Forum (OPEF) has called for stronger support for the Dangote Refinery, stressing that the facility represents a major step toward achieving Nigeria’s energy independence and economic stability.

    In a statement on Sunday, OPEF’s Executive Director, Dr. Rotimi Adeyanju, said the refinery has already provided relief to Nigerians through improved fuel availability and lower prices, and should be encouraged to thrive in a fair and transparent market.

    Adeyanju urged stakeholders, including the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), to embrace healthy competition that prioritises the welfare of citizens and the growth of local industries.

    Responding to concerns raised by DAPPMAN about Dangote’s share of the market, OPEF maintained that any domestic refining effort should be viewed as complementary to national supply and an opportunity to reduce dependence on fuel imports.

    Read Also: NUPENG blocks loading in Dangote Refinery

    “If a local refinery is able to reduce pump prices, that should be seen as a relief for citizens. What Nigerians want is consistent supply at affordable rates,” Adeyanju said.

    He also noted that while importers currently play a key role in meeting demand, the long-term goal should be to strengthen domestic refining capacity and gradually reduce reliance on foreign products.

    OPEF further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, regulators, and security agencies to support policies that protect local refining while ensuring fair play in the downstream sector.

    “This refinery symbolises the rebirth of our industrial capacity. All stakeholders should work together to ensure it succeeds, as its progress will benefit citizens, industries, and the overall economy,” the forum stated.

  • Adegoke pledges reintroduction of Taxi services to boost tourism in Osun

    Adegoke pledges reintroduction of Taxi services to boost tourism in Osun

    A governorship aspirant for the 2026 Osun State election under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Kunle Rasheed Adegoke (SAN), popularly known as K-RAD has unveiled a visionary plan to reintroduce taxi services in major towns across Osun State as a key strategy to drive tourism and economic growth.

    Adegoke outlined his commitment to revitalizing the state’s tourism sector by enhancing accessibility and mobility for visitors and residents during an engagement with party stakeholders in Ila Orangun.

    “Osun State is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, from the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove to the Erin Ijesha and Ayankunugba Waterfalls and Oranmiyan Grove in Ile Ife”.

    “By reintroducing efficient and affordable taxi services in major towns, we will make it easier for tourists to explore our heritage, boosting local businesses and creating jobs.

    “Tourists won’t love to drive in Korope from Osogbo to Owalla dam to enjoy boat rides and birds watching, it has to be a comfortable ride in a taxi manned by cultured drivers that have been trained to market our lovely traditions and culture,” he further explained.

    The initiative aims to establish a modern, reliable taxi system in key urban centers such as Osogbo, Ile-Ife, Ilesa, with plans to extend services to other towns.

    READ ALSO: Top 10 African countries with largest military air fleets in 2025

    Adegoke emphasized that the taxi services will leverage technology, including mobile apps for booking and payments, to ensure convenience and safety for passengers.

    “This is not just about transportation; it’s about creating a seamless experience for tourists while empowering our youth through job opportunities as drivers, dispatchers, and support staff,” he added.

    Adegoke’s tourism-driven transportation plan aligns with his broader vision of economic revival, as outlined in his “Assured Future” blueprint. He highlighted that the reintroduction of taxi services will complement his strategies for agricultural revolution, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.

    While revealing his “Project Origin” to package Ile Ife as the cradle of Yoruba civilization and spiritual capital, he said “Tourism is a low-hanging fruit for Osun’s economic diversification. By improving access to our cultural landmarks, we will attract more visitors, stimulate local commerce, and reduce reliance on federal allocations,” he said.

  • Ogun Assembly Commission to collaborate with civil service on government goals

    Ogun Assembly Commission to collaborate with civil service on government goals

    The chairman of the Ogun State Assembly Service Commission, Suraj Adekumbi has assured workers of the Commission and House of Assembly of their readiness to collaborate with the Civil Service Commission in achieving the state government’s set goals.

    Adekumbi, who is also the former speaker of the state house of assembly made the assurance in Abeokuta at the induction and training programme for newly recruited officers to the Commission, noting that the collaboration was imperative at ensuring synergy and growth between the Legislative and Executive Arms of Government.

    He enjoined the officers to justify their recruitment in the service as a will of God and service to their father’s land, saying that many had no such opportunities, hence, the need for them to contribute their quota meaningfully well to the Commission and the State at large.

    “Indeed, it is an opportunity for you to be a staff of the Commission, you need to contribute your expertise and knowledge to the growth and development of the Commission and the State Government, so as to justify your recruitment,” Adekumbi said.

    READ ALSO: Top 10 African countries with largest military air fleets in 2025

    Adekumbi applauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for the approval of both recruitment, noting that it was a blessing to the Executive and Legislative Arms.

    In his remarks, the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya enjoined the inductees to live a life of accountability and transparency in service, adding that it was a grace for them to be shortlisted among the many applicants that applied for the job.