The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Experts urge Nigerian universities to prioritise soft skills training to tackle youth unemployment

    Experts urge Nigerian universities to prioritise soft skills training to tackle youth unemployment

    Top education and leadership experts have called on Nigerian universities to place greater emphasis on teaching soft and marketable skills as a strategy to reduce the country’s rising youth unemployment.

    The call was made at the grand finale of the Career Service Programme, a joint initiative of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and ICLED Business School, Lekki.

    Speaking at the event, UNILAG’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Afolabi Lesi, stressed that students must be equipped with practical skills beyond the classroom. 

    “The Office of Career Development Services was established to make students work-ready. 

    This partnership with ICLED provides training in interview techniques, teamwork, communication, and leadership—skills rarely taught in academic curricula but crucial for the job market,” he said.

    Prof. Olajumoke Familoni, President and Provost of ICLED Business School, highlighted the mismatch between academic learning and industry needs as a driver of unemployment. 

    She noted that entrepreneurship and industry collaboration are key to converting innovation into job opportunities.

    Read Also: Firm to tackle unemployment

    Also speaking, U.S.-based leadership expert Dr. Wayne Puckett praised the participating students, describing their innovative ideas as proof of the programme’s impact. 

    “The students did an amazing job integrating their learning into practical solutions for unemployment. These discussions must continue beyond the classroom,” he said.

    Dr. Ayodele Shittu, Team Lead at UNILAG’s Office of Career Development Services, said the initiative had successfully prepared students for global citizenship and workplace readiness. “These young leaders will shape policies and influence decisions worldwide,” he added.

    The event featured debates, mock interviews, CV reviews, mentorship sessions, and group presentations addressing the theme “Solving the Graduate Unemployment Crisis in Nigeria: The Way Forward.” 

    Over 130 penultimate and final-year students took part, gaining exposure to career planning, leadership development, and entrepreneurship.

    Judges drawn from academia, NGOs, and the corporate world assessed the presentations, identifying outstanding talents for further mentorship opportunities.

    The Career Service Programme has been hailed as a pioneering model for Nigerian universities, demonstrating how targeted skills training can empower students, improve employability, and contribute to national development.

  • Group urges federal govt intervention in OLUSCO–PMAN land dispute

    Group urges federal govt intervention in OLUSCO–PMAN land dispute

    …protesters storm disputed site

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Abbas Tajudeen have been called upon to intervene in the land dispute between OLUSCO Group and the Performing Musician Employers Association of Nigeria (PMAN) to prevent further escalation.

    Protesters gathered at the disputed site, appealing to national leaders to direct the Inspector General of Police to review the presence of security personnel on the land in question.

    Addressing journalists during the protest, Executive Director of Civil Right Advocacy, Comrade Okpanachi Jacob, alongside Innocent Ohalete, highlighted the impact the dispute has had on OLUSCO Group and called for a fair resolution.

    In a petition submitted to the Police Headquarters in Abuja, the group urged President Tinubu to establish a panel of inquiry to investigate the incident at the site and ensure justice for those affected.

    Read Also: IPMAN backs Dangote, disowns calls for strike in western zone

    The petition also requested federal intervention to restore peace, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard the corporate identity of OLUSCO Group.

    Explaining the origin of the conflict, Civil Right Advocacy noted that OLUSCO Group and PMAN had entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) concerning the parcel of land near City Gate, beside the House on the Rock church. 

    The group noted that the arrangement granted OLUSCO Group rights to the land under a joint venture agreement, but disagreements later arose, leading to the current dispute.

  • Entrepreneurs gain export skills at Lagos Mainland trade fair

    Entrepreneurs gain export skills at Lagos Mainland trade fair

    Nigerian Export Promotions Council (NEPC) played a significant role at the just-concluded maiden Lagos Trade Fair by enhancing the export capabilities of entrepreneurs.  

    Senior Trade Officers from NEPC,  Nancy Okpa and Olumide Olatinde equipped the entrepreneurs with knowledge and skills  necessary for international trade.

    The vendors learnt the step by step export procedures. They also gained insights on the importance of compliance with international standards.

    A lawyer-turned- entrepreneur Monalisa Abiola Aze whose company Mona Matthews curated the event ,expressed appreciation for developing the export capabilities of entrepreneurs and providing them access to international markets. 

    She said the ” Vendors will be more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process.”

     “Through exportation entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and access global market,”She added.

    Olori Janet Afolabi, a Publisher and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, who collaborated with Azeh  on the event, commended NEPC for its effort to reduce Nigeria economic vulnerability to oil price fluctuation by promoting non oil  exports.” She said: through exportation there will be increased foreign exchange earnings”

    Apart from NEPC, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) officials also attended the Trade Fair to sensitise entrepreneurs on the need to register their products. 

    The event drew a large crowd  and sparked entrepreneurial growth.

     Aze said: ” I am overwhelmed by the success of the  event   We are grateful for the enthusiasm from Vendors who showcased  their products and services with passion..

    “The event has shown that with determination and hard work we can create a lasting impact and provide opportunities for growth and expansion of businesses and services “

    Olori Afolabi  described  the event  as  a great first attempt ” It exceeded my expectations.It was incredible to see entrepreneurs come together to celebrate enterprise and innovations. The energy was amazing. We look  forward to building on this momentum.”

     Vendors at the Fair expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the opportunities provided by the event.Many of them reported increased visibility, valuable connections and potential business deals.

    One of them,  Enobong  Ezekiel, CEO / Founder Coreal8  said: “l am honoured to have been a part of this experience. I was able to connect with many customers and partners.The organisers did an incredible job of creating  a vibrant and supportive atmosphere  that allowed us to showcase our services”

    The event held om September 6-7 at Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Ikeja Lagos.

    It attracted about 100 versatile vendors, showcasing  a wide range of products and services in fashion, food, lifestyle, technology and beauty.

    The event featured food courts, entertainment and games, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. 

     Many visitors attended the fair, including Tope Alabi a popular gospel musician. 

    The Fair, which showcased the entrepreneurial strength of Lagos, is expected to have a positive impact on the local  economy .

  • Lagos begins 2026 budget consultation

    Lagos begins 2026 budget consultation

    The Lagos State government has commenced consultations on the 2026 budget with a call for residents’ active participation in shaping the fiscal priorities of the state.

    Speaking at the opening session of the Budget Consultative Forum for the Ikeja Division held at the Multipurpose Hall of Radio Lagos, Agidingbi, the Commissioner Lagos State, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Ope George, said the exercise was designed to give citizens a voice in the budget process while also providing updates on the performance of the 2025 budget.

     “This is the first of our visits into the divisions of the state. We are here to hear from our people what they want to see in the 2026 budget. It also gives us an opportunity to report back on what they requested in 2025 and to give a scorecard of what has been achieved,” he said.

    George disclosed that the state had attained over 80 per cent budget performance so far in 2025, both in revenue generation and expenditure.

    According to him, Lagos is optimistic about meeting its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target for the year.

     “We are building on the gains of 2025. Our IGR is growing and as of August–September, we have hit about 80 per cent of our target. Last year, we met our IGR target and we are confident that 2025 will follow the same path,” he added.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    The Permanent Secretary noted that the state is investing heavily in infrastructure, but also prioritising social protection, healthcare, education, and agriculture.

    He said the state’s agribusiness initiative, Lagos Produce, would be expanded to ensure food security.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, raised concerns over the rising rate of drug abuse among young people in Lagos.

    Describing the menace as a “pandemic,” Ogunlende said the ministry had established a special department under the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASCADA) programme to tackle the crisis.

     “At the moment, our rehabilitation centres are full. Drug abuse is something we see on our streets and in our homes. At least 35 per cent of our youths are dependent on substances,” he stated.

    He noted that the state was working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), private institutions, and civil society groups to provide advocacy, rehabilitation, and rescue services, while urging communities to take ownership of the fight against drug abuse.

    The consultative forum, which runs from September 9–16, 2025, will be held across the state’s divisions, with participation from traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil society organisations, trade groups, persons with disabilities, and youths.

  • APC rakes in N120m from sale of Ekiti governorship forms

    APC rakes in N120m from sale of Ekiti governorship forms

    • Oyebanji returns nomination, expression of interest forms today

    All Progressives Congress (APC) has raked in N120 million from the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms to four aspirants jostling for the party’s ticket in the October 27 shadow election.

    The aspirants are the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, whose forms were purchased by members of Ekiti State University Alumni Association, led by Dipo Bamisheyi, an engineer; and human rights activist and politician, Abimbola Olajumoke.

    A delegation of APC stakeholders led by the pioneer Ekiti State House of Assembly Speaker, Kolawole Adeyemi, secured the forms for Kayode Ojo, the pro-chancellor of  University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), while Mrs. Omolayo Oluremi completes the pack of aspirants.

    Sources within the Finance Directorate of the party at Muhammadu Buhari House – APC national headquarters in Abuja, yesterday said the party realised N50 million each from the two male aspirants, while the female aspirants coughed out N10 million each.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    Each of them paid N40 million for nomination form, while N10 million went for the expression of interest form.

    In line with the party’s policy of ensuring inclusivity for women, the party waived payment for nomination form for the female aspirants, but they are to pay the mandatory N10 military expression of interest form.

    The sale of nomination and expression of interest forms for the governorship position closed on September 2, while the last day for submission of completed forms, and accompanying documents is fixed for tomorrow.

    The party will conduct its primary election on October 27.

    Governor Oyebanji, who was the first to obtain the forms, is expected to be the first to submit his nomination and expression of interest forms to the party’s Organising department today by 2pm.

    A large, fully air-conditioned tent hall has been mounted at the party’s headquarters at Blantrye Street, Wuse 2, Abuja for the ceremony.

    Sources close to the governor said he would be accompanied by major stakeholders in the state to submit the forms ahead of the party’s primary election slated for next month.

    Those expected on Oyebanji’s entourage include members of the executive council, traditional rulers, religious and student leaders, market women and artisans.

  • Court bars IG, Akiolu, others from arresting Oloja-elect

    Court bars IG, Akiolu, others from arresting Oloja-elect

    The Federal High Court in Lagos has granted an injunction restraining security agencies, including the Police, from harassing or unlawfully arresting the Oloja-elect of Lagos, Prince Abiola Olojo Kosoko, pending the determination of a substantive suit.

    The order, granted by Justice Musa Kakaki, followed an ex-parte motion by Prince Kosoko through his legal team led by Chief A. S. Abimbola.

    Others affected by the court injunction in the suit are the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Assistant Inspector General of Police (Zone II, Onikan, Lagos), Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Adamu Bello Muhammed, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Mariam Ogunmolasuyi, Inspector Ebere, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos, and Olumegbon Ajah Chieftaincy Family Property and Investments Company Limited, a subsidiary of Olumegbon Royal Family.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    The interim order restrains the respondents and their agents from “harassing, attempting to arrest, inviting, detaining, or unlawfully interfering with or violating the applicant’s right to personal liberty, dignity of the human person, and fair hearing as enshrined in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)”, until the substantive motion is heard and determined.

    Justice Kakaki said the protection of constitutional rights was paramount and must not be infringed upon, especially during an ongoing legal dispute over a traditional leadership position.

    The case stemmed from an alleged conflict surrounding the succession and recognition of the Oloja of Lagos, a key chieftaincy title within the Lagos royal hierarchy.

    Prince Kosoko, a descendant of the Kosoko royal family, claimed he has been subjected to intimidation and threats since his emergence as Oloja-elect.

    In his affidavit, Prince Kosoko alleged that certain individuals and groups, with the support of security agencies, were attempting to undermine his position and forcefully prevent his recognition.

    The court adjourned the matter till tomorrow for the hearing of the motion on notice, while directing that hearing notices be served on the first to fifth and seventh respondents.

  • Abiru urges constituents to participate in CVR

    Abiru urges constituents to participate in CVR

    The lawmaker representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, has urged eligible residents of the district, who are yet to obtain Permanent Voter Cards (PVC), to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Abiru, in a statement in Lagos by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, said registering to vote was not only a civic responsibility, but also the most effective way for citizens to have a voice in shaping the future of the country.

    “Democracy thrives when citizens participate in the electoral process,” Abiru said, adding: “The ongoing voter registration provides an opportunity for first-time voters, those who have changed their residences, and others who need to update their records, to ensure they can exercise their right to vote in forthcoming elections. I urge eligible residents of Lagos East, Lagos State and across the country, to come out en masse and register.”

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    The lawmaker reminded residents that a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) remained the only legal instrument for voting in Nigeria and encouraged community leaders, youth organisations, religious institutions and civil society groups across the senatorial district to mobilise their members for the exercise.

    “Your PVC is your power. It is the tool through which you can hold leaders accountable and influence governance outcomes. Let us not waste this opportunity,” he said.

    Abiru said his office would collaborate with stakeholders to ensure Lagos East residents were sensitised during the registration.”

  • Plans for second edition of Ikogosi Marathon Race unveiled

    Plans for second edition of Ikogosi Marathon Race unveiled

    Ekiti State Government, in collaboration with Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, has announced plans for the second edition of Ikogosi 17.5km Marathon race scheduled for November 8.

    It described it as a major event designed to promote fitness, attract investments and showcase the state’s natural endowment.

    Speaking at a news conference in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Technical Advisor on Sports Development, Dr Olusola Osetoba, restated his administration’s commitment to sports and tourism development as a key driver of economic growth and youth engagement.

    He says Ikogosi race goes beyond competition, as it provides a platform to promote healthy living, while placing the state on the global sporting map.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    According to the organisers, the 27.5km marathon will feature over 5,000 athletes and participants through scenic routes of Ilawe, with the finishing point at the iconic Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti.

    While assuring that his government would continue to partner with relevant stakeholders to make Ekiti a sports and tourism hub and describing the event as more than just a competition, but a celebration of resilience, unity and excellence that reflects Ekiti spirit, the governor urged residents to welcome visitors warmly and showcase the state’s culture, values and peaceful atmosphere.

    The initiator of Ikogosi Marathon, Mr. Femi Abegunde, who commended Governor Oyebanji for his steadfast commitment to sports development in the state, noted that the governor’s consistent support for sports and youth development, particularly the marathon reflects a broader vision to use athletics not just as a recreation, but as a strategic platform for youth empowerment, economic growth and state branding.

    He said the governor’s leadership was gradually transforming the state into a vibrant destination for sports tourism in Nigeria.

    He also hailed the state government’s partnership with the organisers, noting that the collaboration would give greater visibility and credibility to the second edition of the race.

    He said Ikogosi Marathon was conceived to combine the thrill of athletics with the beauty of Ekiti tourism attraction, particularly the world-famous warm springs, thereby positioning the state as a leading destination for sports in Nigeria.

    Abegunde said registration for the 2025 edition of Ikogosi 27.5km marathon is free for all Ekiti indigenes until November and can be completed via the official website, www.ikogosimarathon.com.

    He outlined the prize structure for the race, with elite winners set to receive N2 million, N1.5 million, and N1 million for first, second and third places, while indigenous athletes will be awarded prizes ranging from N1.5 million to N50,000 for the top six positions.

    Also speaking, the Director General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, who described the marathon as a strategic event that aligns with the government’s vision of using tourism and sports as tools for economic growth, noted that hosting such an event would not only attract visitors to the state, but also stimulate business activities for hoteliers, transporters, artisans and other service providers in the tourism value chain.

  • Osun 2026: Hussein joins governorship race

    Osun 2026: Hussein joins governorship race

    Senator Mudashiru Hussein, who represented Osun West District, has joined the 2026 governorship race in the All Progressives Congress (APC). He promised to unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    Hussein declared his interest yesterday at the Osun APC state secretariat in Osogbo, in the presence of thousands of his supporters across the state.

    Addressing the party’s executives led by its chairman, he said he was the most experienced aspirant among the 13 contenders, having served in public offices.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    Hussein said: ‘’I’m the most experienced aspirant among the contenders in APC. We are all qualified, but I have served in more public offices compared to the others. I have served as a lawmaker in the House of Representatives for eight years, senator representing a district in Osun State for four years, acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG). I also served as Federal Commissioner for National Population Commission (NPC).

    “I am from Ejigbo, which is a big community in Osun West. The current governor is from Ede. I defeated his elder brother in the past and I can do it again if I am given APC ticket in 2026.”

    However, he expressed readiness to work for the party if he did not emerge as its standard-bearer, noting: ‘’The party’s interest supersedes my ambition.’’

  • Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo get kudos for reforms, others

    Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo get kudos for reforms, others

    The BTO Renewed Hope Media Team has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for  “bold, transformative reforms that are repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In a statement, the team noted that since assuming office, President Tinubu had demonstrated “exceptional courage and visionary leadership” through policies that were reshaping the nation’s economic, infrastructural and institutional landscape.

    It highlighted key reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange windows, the administration’s repayment of the $3.4 billion COVID-19 IMF loan and the N100 billion Sovereign Sukuk Loan, describing the steps as evidence of responsible economic management.

    The Media Team also praised the Ministry of Interior under the leadership of  Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his “transformative contributions” to effective governance.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

     It praised the ministry for clearing a backlog of 204,332 passports within just three weeks, while restoring  citizens’ confidence in government service delivery.

    “Dr. Tunji-Ojo has redefined efficiency and innovation in public service,” the statement said. “His leadership has not only eased the burden on Nigerians seeking passports, but has also repositioned the Ministry of Interior as a model of modern governance.”

    The team also lauded  the minister for spearheading an unprecedented transformation of Nigeria’s correctional system.

    “Under his dynamic leadership, correctional centres—once seen merely as punitive spaces for punishment and social exclusion—are being repositioned as hubs of reformation, rehabilitation and empowerment. The recent inauguration of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Special Study Centre at the Abakaliki Correctional Centre, Ebonyi State, marks a significant milestone in these far-reaching reforms, offering inmates the rare opportunity to pursue quality education and rebuild their lives.

    ‘’In line with the minister’s vision, correctional centres are no longer to be viewed as places where society condemns and abandons its offenders, but as platforms for personal transformation and national reintegration,” it said.