The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • ‘We’re revolutionising agric sector’

    ‘We’re revolutionising agric sector’

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to exploring modern technologies to improve and transform agricultural practices.

    He spoke through his deputy, Bayo Lawal, yesterday while receiving, on a courtesy visit, Chinese investors from China Overseas Engineering Group Co. Limited, at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan.

    The governor noted that investments in agriculture development and value chain were part of the visions of the current administration to expand the economy of the state and attract more investors.

    He said the state had a comparative advantage in agriculture and had also invested in enablers such as infrastructure and security, calling on the Chinese investors to partner with the state government to guarantee food security, boost agricultural productivity and make the state a hub for agro-industrial processing, which he noted, would generate thousands of employment opportunities and improve revenue drive.

    He said the government would provide an enabling environment to support the investors’ vision of partnering with the state.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Saudi target deals in energy, agric sectors

    The Director General, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Dr Debo Akande, appreciated the Chinese team’s vision and mission, which he noted, aligned with the state’s agriculture strategies.

    He said rural transformation, building industrial hubs and development of agro-processing zones in the state were geared towards taking comparative advantages of the state in agribusiness to expand the economy.

    The team lead, who is also the Director, Strategic Services, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Abuja, Alhaji Abubakar Yerima, commended Governor Makinde for transforming the state through laudable infrastructural projects and investment in agribusiness.

    The leader of the Chinese team, Ms Dong Gwping, stressed that the team’s intervention was expected to revolutionise the agricultural landscape by stimulating socio-economic growth and development in the state for complete value chain with the provision of Chinese technologies and expertise for partnership.

    The event was also attended by the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Adeniyi Adebisi; Director-General, Oyo State Investment Public-Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA), Mr Tilewa Folami; permanent secretaries from the two agencies present, Mr Adewale Bolarinwa and Alhaji Kolawole Badmus and the Assistant Director, Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, South-West Zonal Office, Mr Samuel Ajewole, among others.

  • Awujale: Abiodun urges kingmakers to be fair

    Awujale: Abiodun urges kingmakers to be fair

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has urged the Awujale- Chiefs-in-Council to ensure a level playing field in the process of appointing a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

    Speaking after a meeting with members of the Awujale-Chiefs-in- Council at Iperu, Prince Abiodun noted that it was imperative for the people of Ijebuland to have a new Awujale as soon as possible, as “nature abhors a vacuum.”

    He assured the people of Ijebuland that his administration would support any candidate presented by the kingmakers at the end of the nomination process.

    “Nature abhors a vacuum, and the process of installing another Awujale has started. That was also what we discussed.

    “The pathway to having in place a regency is the pathway to ensuring that all the i’s are dotted and t’s crossed, and to ensure that all the processes, which are enshrined in the laws of Ijebuland are strictly followed.“I must say that all of us agreed that we are on the same page, and I think this will put paid to all the rumours that have been making the rounds,” the governor said.

    Read Also: Abiodun seeks Chinese partnership in mineral resources exploration

    He hoped the process would be rancour-free, as those who would be lining up for the exalted position would be given equal opportunity.

    He described members of the Awujale Council as respectable personalities who contributed to the successful reign of the late Awujale by maintaining peace in the land.

    “I had to first of all wait for the 40 days to come and go before calling this meeting because all of us have been in mourning. I think what is most important is the fact that they are all deeply committed and dedicated chiefs of the Awujale, and I appreciate them.

    “This is my first meeting with them to commiserate with them on the passing of our revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and also to assure them that despite the rumours that have been ongoing, I have absolute confidence in them.

    “The Council is intact, with no disharmony among them. There is no pluralisation; they are all working hand in glove with each other, and I am happy with today’s meeting, and I thank them,” the governor concluded.

    The Olootu Olowa and Deputy Chairman of the Council, Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, stressed the resolve of the Council to continue its peace-building duties. He said members would continue to unite and work as a team for the peace and progress of Ijebuland.

  • AbdulRazaq: we’re working to eliminate insecurity

    AbdulRazaq: we’re working to eliminate insecurity

    Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq yesterday said his administration was doing everything to eliminate insecurity in Ifelodun, Patigi and Edu local governments.

    The three councils have been hot spots for bandits’ attacks.

    The governor acknowledged constant collaboration with the office of the National Security Adviser and all security agencies.

    He spoke during a meeting with Ifelodun stakeholders, listing his efforts to scale up infrastructure development and keep the people safe for shared prosperity.

    Led by the Chairman of the council, Hadji Femi Yusuf, the stakeholders were drawn from layers of the local government, including serving and former public officers, monarchs, clerics, politicians, youths and others.

    He itemised some of the ongoing and proposed projects in Ifelodun to include Ajase-Ipo-Oke Ode-Sagbe Road; Alabe-Oreke Road; Oro Ago Road; Ora Township Road (which is to be re-awarded) and Orisa Bridge.

    Read Also: AbdulRazaq visits Babanla, other communities as new security deployments boost public safety

    He said Akamo Bridge is also on the radar as well as spot rehabilitation of Share-Babanla Road, and commended the  community-led initiatives in Ifelodun such as ICT Centre in Igbaja.

    He thanked the stakeholders for the visit, urging citizens to consider the implications of exaggerated claims regarding security issues on investment and development.

    “I assure you of our efforts to eliminate the threats. As we work together to make our communities safer, I want to advise that investments may be affected if we don’t strike a balance in how we project our communities to the outside world,” he said.

    He said other developmental initiatives were also in the pipeline, urging the stakeholders to continue to engage the government in a constructive way.

    The stakeholders commended the “proactive” efforts of the governor on security and his developmental strides in the region.

    Yusuf hailed the seriousness with which the government had tackled the issues in the area as well as the many projects of the state government.

    “We appreciate the swift response and unwavering support of the state government in collaboration with the office of the National Security Adviser, in adopting multi-layered strategies to dismantle criminal networks and restore peace to our affected communities,” he said.

    “Your commitment to development in our local government is evident in many state-driven projects currently ongoing, particularly the Ajase to Sagbe Road project and other strategic interventions that have further boosted public confidence in your administration and in the All Progressives Congress (APC).”

    Former House of Representatives member Alhaji Kola Yusuf and Elder Oyin Zubair, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, said Ifelodun leaders appreciated the efforts of the governor on security and development.

    “We are very grateful for your visible efforts. We can see it, and we thank you. After chasing these criminals away, we need to also get their promoters and informants,” Yusuf said.

    Zubair urged the government to support those affected in the recent incidents, expressing confidence that the recent security deployment would permanently restore calm.

  • Abiodun tasks kingmakers on level playing ground for Awujale contestants

    Abiodun tasks kingmakers on level playing ground for Awujale contestants

    Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun has charged the Awujale Chiefs –  in – Council in Ijebu Ode to ensure a level playing ground in the process of appointing a new Awujale of Ijebuland.

    The stool of the Awujale became vacant when Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona joined his ancestors on July 13, 2025, at 91 after reigning for over 65 years.

    Speaking after a meeting with members of the Awujale Chiefs – in – Council at Iperu, Abiodun said it was imperative for the people of Ijebuland to have a new Awujale as soon as possible, as “nature abhors a vacuum.”

    The Governor assured the people of Ijebuland that his administration would support any candidate presented by the kingmakers at the end of the nomination process.

    “Nature abhors a vacuum, and the process of installing another Awujale has started. That was also what we discussed.

    “The pathway to having in place a regency is the pathway to ensuring that all the i’s are dotted and t’s crossed, and to ensure that all the processes which are enshrined in the Laws of Ijebuland are strictly followed.

    Read Also: Court restrains Abiodun, others from demolishing Daniel’s properties

    “I must say that all of us agreed that we are on the same page, and I think this will put paid to all the rumours that have been agog about one thing or another,” he said. 

    Abiodun also expressed the hope that the process would be rancour-free asking those lining up for the exalted position to be given equal opportunity.

    He described members of the Awujale Council as respectable personalities who contributed to the successful reign of the late Awujale by maintaining peace in the land.

    “I had to first of all wait for the 40 days to come and go before calling this meeting because all of us have been in mourning. I think what is most important is the fact that they are all deeply committed and dedicated chiefs of the Awujale, and I appreciate them.

    “This is my first meeting with them to commiserate with them on the passing of our revered monarch, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, and also to assure them that despite the rumours that have been ongoing, I have absolute confidence in them.

    “The Council is intact, with no disharmony among them. There is no pluralization; they are all working hand in glove with each other, and I am happy with today’s meeting, and I thank them,” the Governor added.

    The Olootu Olowa and Deputy Chairman of the Council, Chief Oluwaranti Lekan Osifeso, stressed the resolve of the Council to continue its peace-building duties. 

    He assured that members would continue to unite and work as a team for the peace and progress of Ijebuland. 

  • Group makes case for more involvement of women in decision-making, political participation

    Group makes case for more involvement of women in decision-making, political participation

    Speakers from various walks of life have identified the lack of involvement of women in the decision-making process as one of the reasons the country has been plagued by various challenges.

    The speakers, whose backgrounds cut across the formal and informal sectors, asserted at the weekend during a sensitisation program aimed at promoting women’s participation in politics.

    The event also drew attention to what they described as the underrepresentation of women in politics and governance at various levels of governance in the country.

    Tagged “Women in Politics Sensitisation,” the event with the theme “Understanding Our Role in Active Politics,” was convened by Farmer Omolara Svensson-Busari and attended by women across political divides, ages, and statuses. The event, the second in the month, was held at De Ace Event Centre, Yemetu, Ibadan.

    Speaking on the motive for the sensitisation, Farmer Omolara said women, as the bedrock and active managers of the home, must not be relegated to the background when issues affecting the larger society are concerned.

    She said many women are not interested in politics, which has resulted in their low representation in governance, policy-making, and general affairs.

    She charged women to take the initiative, noting that no matter their potential or capabilities, power will not be served to them on a platter of gold unless they also show interest and play an active role in politics.

    She said, “When you are not there, they cannot bring you down to where you are. You have to come out, show that you are interested, and show that you have the capability to do whatever you want to do. So, we are encouraging them to come out first.”

    “This is not a politically funded movement. This is a movement that is funded by me and all my women who are the founding members of this initiative. So, we’re determined. We’re tired of the status quo. We’re determined. We want the situation of the nation to change.”

    Also sharing her experience, a former councillor, Honourable Okeare Aina, said what discourages women from political participation is that most of them don’t have mentors but just dabble in the tide of politics and get consumed.

    She also identified other challenges women face in politics, including a lack of support and societal perceptions, noting that the sensitisation program is out to address the challenges and help women succeed.

    She said, “Most women don’t have mentors. They take the risk of joining politics. With this great opportunity given to women, I see it as a great deal. It’s going to be a platform where most women who need someone to mentor them and put them through can be helped.

    “There are times people don’t believe in women. Giving the woman the kind of support that she will need. After putting so much effort into showcasing herself, many still believe politics is not a thing for a woman.”

    She, however, charged women interested in politics to “know your onions. Know what you want. Stand your ground. Know what it takes. Get some education, and be bold. Have self-confidence. All you need is yourself. Self-confidence. And you must assure yourself that whatever you want to go for, you are capable.”

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    Also speaking, another leader, Ronke Adedeji, said the program is impactful “because we are trying to sensitise women to be active in politics, to know what their fundamental rights are, as Nigerian citizens, to come out, be active, and participate in politics, to ask for what is duly theirs. This is one of the important reasons for this gathering.”

    In her remarks, the Oyo APC Woman Leader, Alhaja Tinuade Adigun, said the sensitisation is a welcome development, noting that the move will encourage more women to contribute their quota beyond the cheerleading role they have been confined to playing over the years.

    She said, with this kind of sensitisation, many husbands will be encouraged to allow their wives to participate actively in politics, especially by seeking elective positions from the local government level to federal seats.

    She added that when women are more involved in political affairs, things are bound to take a different turn across all tiers of government.

  • Ajibola visits Olubadan-designate, urges youth to embrace culture

    Ajibola visits Olubadan-designate, urges youth to embrace culture

    The Chief Executive Officer of Copacapana Group, Chief Ahmed Ajibola, has called on young people to take a more active role in preserving and promoting Ibadan’s cultural heritage.

    Ajibola made the appeal when he led his team on a courtesy visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, at his Bodija residence in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    Speaking during the visit, the hospitality entrepreneur congratulated Oba Ladoja on his forthcoming coronation, describing him as a leader with the vision to strengthen Ibadan’s cultural identity.

    He lamented that many young residents and students in Ibadan are disconnected from the city’s history and traditions.

    “There are so many stories about Ibadan that people don’t know,” Ajibola said. “By the nature of my work in hospitality, I interact with many young people and I see the gap. Students come to Ibadan, study for years, and leave without learning anything about our culture. This shouldn’t be the case.”

    He noted that institutions like the University of Ibadan and Lead City University attract thousands of students annually, yet most leave without witnessing major cultural expressions such as masquerade festivals and traditional rites.

    Read Also: Olubadan-designate Ladoja harps on Ibadan urban renewal

    According to him, platforms like tourism and entertainment can help bridge that gap while boosting economic growth for the ancient city.

    Responding, Oba Ladoja commended Ajibola for his passion and stressed the need for youth involvement in cultural revival.

    “It is the youth who will sustain our heritage,” the Olubadan-designate said.

    “They must take pride in Ibadan’s traditions and at the same time introduce innovations that will keep our culture relevant in today’s world.”

    The monarch also urged stakeholders to use modern platforms to present culture in ways that appeal to younger generations, noting that culture and development should go hand in hand.

  • Ozekhome slams FG for withholding Osun LG funds

    Ozekhome slams FG for withholding Osun LG funds

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome, has criticised the Federal Government for withholding allocations meant for Osun State local governments, describing the move as “highly political” and a violation of constitutional provisions and Supreme Court rulings.

    Speaking on a television programme, Ozekhome said the people of Osun should not be punished for partisan reasons, stressing that Section 162 of the Constitution and a 2024 Supreme Court judgment mandate direct payment of funds to local governments.

    He noted that the state had conducted elections on February 22, 2025, producing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) officials, who are now the legitimate chairmen and councillors. “They ought to receive their allocation. There should be nothing barring it at all,” he said.

    Ozekhome accused the Attorney General of the Federation of acting improperly by directing funds to sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) officials. He also urged President Bola Tinubu to remember his own legal battles as Lagos governor, warning against repeating past mistakes.

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    “As governor of Lagos State, he challenged the withholding of funds made for Lagos State by the then President Obasanjo government. 

    “The Supreme Court held that the Federal Government could never withhold the funds made for local governments in a state. All you could say is that Lagos State has 20 recognised local governments, and the creation of additional 37 was not recognised, but the funds must still be released,” he said.

    Ozekhome added that failure of the Attorney General to give proper advice was a dereliction of duty. 

    “If the Attorney General failed to give the President the right advice, it is a failure on his part. And if he did give that advice, and Mr President refused, all he needed to do is to resign from office. If I were Attorney General and I gave advice to the President which I know is grounded in law, and he refused to take the advice, I would resign,” he stated.

    He stressed that the rule of law must prevail above political manoeuvring. “The people of Osun should not suffer because of politics. Once elections have been held and officials are in place, their allocations must flow without hindrance. That is the law, and that is justice,” he concluded.

  • Olubadan-designate Ladoja harps on Ibadan urban renewal

    Olubadan-designate Ladoja harps on Ibadan urban renewal

    The Olubadan-elect, Oba Rasidi Ladoja has urged compound heads and community leaders to help chart a course to make the left-over of ancient houses in Ibadan liveable. 

    Oba Ladoja made this call over the weekend while welcoming hundreds of Ibadan Mogajis who came to congratulate him on his emergence as the next Olubadan to his Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan residence. 

    The monarch noted that a good number of Mogajis were well off to personally initiate developmental programme in their ancestral homes, but regretted that many had chosen to live in the high brow areas in town like Bodija, Oluyole, Iyaganku, Jericho, Akobo, if not outrightly outside Ibadan and NIgeria where lives are relatively better. 

    He said some have not even summoned family meetings for a long time to discuss family developmental activities since they received chieftaincy titles, adding that being a Mogaji or Chief in Ibadan isn’t just a title but a responsibility. 

    Oba Ladoja said, “We are looking at a situation where Mogajis and chiefs would not abandon their ancestral homes. By so doing, you can positively impact the younger generation looking for mentorship. You lived in this same society and have become what God wants you to be. 

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    “Please, let’s encourage the people at the grassroots by staying with them and sharing with them”. 

    Oba Ladoja contended that if community leaders could renovate old buildings in terrible state of disrepair, and occasionally inhabit them, cases of drug abuse and other social vices would be reduced to the barest minimum. 

    According to him, it is in order to change the narratives that he has renovated his family house at Isale Osi, which he would be visiting as Olubadan from time to time. 

    He however, commended the efforts of some of the community leaders in assisting the needy in their homesteads through provision of scholarships for indigent students, and provision of conducive environment for genuine community development. 

    He enlisted the support and co-operation of the Mogajis and chiefs in his bid to restore Ibadan’s economic fortunes.

    Earlier, the leader of Ibadan Mogajis, Chief Asimiyu Ariori congratulated the Olubadan-in-waiting. While commending Oba Ladoja for his vision, he pledged the support and co-operation of the family compound heads to the monarch. He prayed God to give him long life to rule and reign over Ibadanland.

  • No plans to close Gbagi market, Oyo govt dispels rumours

    No plans to close Gbagi market, Oyo govt dispels rumours

    The Oyo State Government has dismissed claims that the Bola Ige International Business Complex, Gbagi, Ibadan, would be shut down on Monday, describing the rumour as unfounded.

    Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives, and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, made this known in a statement on Sunday, assuring traders, shop owners, and the public that the market will remain open.

    He described the speculation as false and a deliberate attempt by mischief-makers to create unnecessary tension within the business community.

    According to him, “The Bola Ige International Business Complex remains a hub of commercial activities in the state, and at no point did the government contemplate shutting it down. 

    “We urge traders and the public to disregard this misleading information being spread by unscrupulous elements whose aim is to disrupt peace and normal business operations.    

    “Normal activities will continue without any hindrance on Monday and beyond.”

    The Commissioner further noted that the government is aware of certain practices within the complex where some shop owners, mostly elders within the business complex, allegedly allot the spaces in front of their shops to petty traders, sometimes even measuring the portions with rulers and exploiting them financially.   

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    He assured that the government is already taking necessary steps to address such excesses in a fair and balanced manner, to protect the interests of all categories of traders and ensure that the complex remains conducive for legitimate business activities.

    He further stressed that the present administration under Governor Seyi Makinde is committed to providing an enabling environment for commerce to thrive and would not take any decision capable of crippling business activities in the state.

    Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, reaffirmed the government’s position, adding that necessary security arrangements have been put in place to ensure peace and order at the business complex.

    He said, “The Ministry wishes to assure all traders, customers, and stakeholders that there will be no closure of the Bola Ige International Business Complex on Monday. 

    “The rumour is unfounded, and everyone should go about their normal business without fear.

    “The government remains committed to protecting the interests of traders and ensuring the smooth running of all markets and business complexes across the state.”

    The government therefore appealed to the public to ignore false information and rely solely on official statements from relevant authorities.

  • Aiyedatiwa pledges stronger partnership with traditional rulers to tackle insecurity in Ondo

    Aiyedatiwa pledges stronger partnership with traditional rulers to tackle insecurity in Ondo

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has restated his administration’s commitment to working closely with traditional institutions to combat security challenges such as armed robbery, banditry, and kidnapping across the state.

    Speaking at the first coronation anniversary of the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, Oba Mofolorunso Adegboyega Arasanyin, in Okeagbe-Akoko, Aiyedatiwa highlighted the crucial role of monarchs in fostering peace and unity at the grassroots.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources and Public Sanitation, Hon. Ayodele Samson Akande, the governor commended Oba Arasanyin for his leadership, describing his reign as one of wisdom, dedication, and service to his people.

    “I cannot but acknowledge the cooperation and support of our palaces in tackling crimes, banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery from our domains,” he said.

    He added, “Under your reign, Afa Okeagbe Kingdom has continued to witness peace and solidify the unity of Okeagbe-Akoko as one indivisible entity through development and the preservation of cultural heritage.”

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa vows tougher crackdown on drug trafficking, cybercrime, kidnapping

    The governor further pledged to deepen collaboration with royal institutions through the ‘Our Ease Initiative’, aimed at accelerating development and ensuring the dividends of democracy reach grassroots communities.

    In his remarks, Oba Arasanyin reflected on his ascension to the throne, describing the process as “a period that tested the unity, patience, and determination” of the people.

    He also commended the courage of the kingmakers for upholding the will of the community during his selection.

    Highlighting his achievements within the past year, the monarch noted the revitalisation of the Afa Oba and Chiefs’ Council, the installation of new chiefs, scholarship awards for students, and the restoration of the Chief Magistrate’s Court to Okeagbe after an 18-month absence.

    He also cited the establishment of an ICT Centre for youth empowerment, ready for commissioning, and the recruitment of additional medical personnel to improve healthcare delivery.

    Chairman of Akoko North West Local Government, Hon. Esan Owolabi, described Oba Arasanyin as a visionary and peace-loving ruler whose reign has fostered unity, progress, and development within Afa Okeagbe and the larger Akoko land.

    Similarly, the Chairman of the Council of Obas in Ondo State and Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, alongside the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, praised Oba Arasanyin for his humility, wisdom, and commitment to preserving culture while embracing modernity.

    The colourful ceremony attracted indigenes from home and abroad and featured prayers, cultural displays, and an atmosphere of renewed hope for the future of Afa Okeagbe.