The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Minister seeks rethinking of urban growth, youth inclusion

    Minister seeks rethinking of urban growth, youth inclusion

    Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa has emphasised the timeliness of rethinking urban growth patterns and youth inclusion.

    Using Mexico as a case study, he highlighted parallels between Nigeria and Mexico’s federal systems and climate similarities, presenting three Mexican lessons for inclusive urban belonging.

    The minister, who was represented by the Director, Urban Renewal and Slum Upgrade in the ministry, Hashimu Sa’idu, said this during the International Youth Day 2025 themed: “An Evening with the Future: Youth, Urbanisation and Global Possibilities,” organised by HipCity Innovation Centre in Abuja.

    The forum brought together diplomatic missions, Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Department of Mass Housing, Urban and Regional Planning Department, Area Council Services Secretariat, other relevant government ministries, youth living in the FCT, and civil society organisations.

    The forum was attended by officials of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), alongside diplomatic representatives from Mexico, Uganda, and other international partners, creating unprecedented dialogue opportunities for youth-centered urban development solutions.

    The minister said: “First, upgrading where people already live through Mexico’s Urban Improvement Program; second, promoting secondary cities through culture and identity via programs like Pueblos Mágicos and Barrios Mágicos that bring dignity and economic opportunities to smaller cities and historic neighborhoods; and third, linking housing, energy, and youth employment through Mexico’s Ecocasa program supporting affordable, energy-efficient homes construction.”

    The minister said that Nigeria is already implementing similar projects, citing Lagos Blue and Red Rail lines cutting commute times and the national electrification project expanding solar energy access to over 5.5 million people with 125 mini-grids commissioned.

    He highlighted the construction of Renewed Hope Estates as one of the government’s efforts to curb the housing crisis in the country.

    According to him, the estates will be developed across the six geo-political zones.

    Executive Director, HipCity Innovation Centre, Bassey Bassey called on both Federal and State governments to have more young people included in urban policy development and planning.

    He also called for the provision of access to early renters by providing grants and a system that ensures youth have access to decent and affordable housing in planned neighborhoods as well as access to public services to make life easy for them.

    Bassey said that for many Nigerian youths, city life that should be a gateway to opportunity, is now a daily negotiation for survival.

    “Housing costs are so high that even a full year’s minimum wage cannot rent a decent home in a planned neighborhood. A situation that forces thousands into overcrowded, unplanned settlements — spaces that are vulnerable to eviction and demolition without warning. We claim to live in the city, but we are quick to say ‘I wan enter town’. Meaning young persons are villagers in the city,” he said.

    Bassey said that Nigeria’s public transportation is too often inadequate, unreliable, and unsafe.

    “In Abuja, Mass transit buses run only on major routes, leaving young people to spend far more on commuting than they can afford, or to spend hours each day walking long distances.

    He added: “The ‘city experience’ that should inspire creativity and connection is too often replaced with fatigue, anxiety, and disillusionment. The quality of life for urban youth is in decline, eroded by rising food prices, unsafe public spaces, and exclusion from the planning processes that shape the very streets youths live on.”

    According to him, the prevailing challenges are mounting pressure on the mental health of young people.

    “It is no wonder then that the ‘japa syndrome’ has become one of the defining narratives of our time. Young Nigerians are leaving — in droves — for what they believe will be safer, more dignified lives abroad. While migration is a human right, the scale and desperation fueling irregular migration reflects a deep failure at home,” added.

    Director of Mass Housing for the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, commended HipCity Innovation Centre for creating a platform that amplifies youth voices on urban challenges.

    Represented by Florence Kazzah, Dauda reaffirmed FCDA’s commitment to developing inclusive and affordable housing solutions that meet the needs of all residents, particularly young people striving for independence.

    Dauda underscored the importance of collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society in building cities where everyone can thrive.

    The Country Director of Heinrich Böll Stiftung (HBS) Nigeria, Sophie Knobel emphasised the creation of ‘open cities’ where the co-existence of different social groups and cultural diversity foster growth that is diverse, equitable, creative, sustainable and inclusive.

    Knobel highlighted the need for inclusive development, affordable housing, streamlined governance, and participatory planning as key recommendations for Nigerian cities, particularly referencing HBS Nigeria’s work on transforming abandoned public buildings into more inclusive and affordable housing spaces for the youths and urban poor residents.

    The Mexican Deputy Head of Mission Jose Brisemo, presented his country’s comprehensive youth engagement framework, positioning youth participation as a cornerstone of crime prevention.

    Read Also: Dangiwa showcases Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Housing gains in northern Nigeria ‎

    “When we actively engage young people, we effectively redirect them away from organised crime,” the Ambassador explained.

    Minister Counselor, Ugandan High Commission, Abuja Dr. Omara Sam highlighted their distinctive cooperative financial model, where young people organise into registered groups of ten members, qualifying them for loan access up to $2,000 per group.

    According to Sam, this microfinance approach enables youth-led entrepreneurship and community development.

    The Ugandan delegation also presented their agricultural engagement strategy, where the government procures youth-produced agricultural products for export to regional markets including Malawi.

    “This program incentivises young people to pursue agricultural ventures while guaranteeing market access for their products. Complementing these efforts, Uganda’s technical college system provides practical vocational training that equips youth with immediately applicable life skills,” the envoy added.

  • Arewa Youths commends Sen. Buba’s peace-building approach

    The Arewa Progressive Youth Forum (APYF) has praised Senator Shehu Umar Buba, Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, for his peace-driven approach to tackling insecurity, describing him as a rare voice of reason in Nigeria’s security landscape.

    In a statement signed by its President, Mallam Yusuf Adamu, and Secretary, Kabir Faskari, the group lauded the senator’s fearless leadership and unconventional courage in promoting dialogue, economic empowerment, and community reconciliation alongside military efforts.

    The APYF noted that unlike many leaders who advocate for more weapons and troops, Buba has consistently argued that banditry and insurgency cannot be defeated by force alone.

    According to the forum, true peace can only be achieved by addressing poverty, grievances, and deep-rooted social divisions that fuel violence.

    The group further highlighted that Buba’s approach has already produced results in conflict-prone areas, where dialogue between farmers and herders has reduced clashes, restored markets, and rebuilt trust among communities.

    Read Also: Traffic diversion begins as Ogudu-Ifako bridge repair enters phase two

    “Local surveillance networks established under his watch now supply intelligence to security agencies, making communities partners in peace rather than perpetual victims of violence.

    “He is not soft; he is strategic, the statement read. Senator Buba understands that peace is not declared at the end of a gun barrel it is built through trust, fairness, and shared prosperity.”

    The forum also dismissed recent allegations linking Senator Buba to bandit kingpin Bello Turji as baseless and politically motivated. 

    It argued that history has shown peace processes often require engaging with those at the centre of conflict, citing South Africa’s negotiations with the ANC and Nigeria’s Niger Delta amnesty programme as examples.

    “Engagement is not endorsement, APYF stressed. It is about opening a pathway for disarmament and reconciliation. Those attacking Senator Buba for his approach are either ignorant of history or driven by political mischief.

    “The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has also defended the Senator, while grassroots organisations have pointed to his developmental projects from boreholes and electrification to rural roads and agricultural support as proof of his commitment to making violence unattractive.

    “Observers believe the allegations are timed to weaken Senator Buba’s growing influence in shaping Nigeria’s security policy.”

    APYF however warned that such attacks are not just an attempt to discredit one man but also a sabotage of Nigeria’s best chance at lasting peace.

    “Senator Buba represents a new kind of Nigerian leader. He is tough when required, conciliatory when possible, and unafraid to take unpopular decisions if they bring us closer to peace. Silencing such leaders is a disservice to the nation.

    “Security analysts agree that Nigeria’s complex conflicts require both kinetic and non-kinetic responses. Senator Buba’s model blending dialogue with decisive force offers a middle ground that could transform restive communities into active defenders of peace.

    “The Senator’s vision is not about choosing between talking or fighting. It is about doing both wisely. In a country that has lost too much to violence, that balance is not just good politics it is the only path to a future worth fighting for.”

  • Oba Adekeye emerges new Alagunji of Agunji in Kwara

    Oba Adekeye emerges new Alagunji of Agunji in Kwara

    Oba Isiaka Adekeye lll has been crowned as the Alagunji of Agunjin land in lfelodun local government area of Kwara. 

    This marks a significant return of the crown to the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Dynasty.

    This is contained in a statement by the family’s spokesperson, Prince Oluwatoyin Adekeye on Saturday in Ilorin.

    The new Alagunji of Agunjin Land in lfelodun local government area of Kwara, Oba Isiaka Adekeye lll, in his reaction, promised to work for peace, unity and progress of his communities.

    Read Also: Kwara community seeks govt assistance for victims of bandits’ attacks

    He solicited the cooperation and support of his subjects for more development to be attained in Agunji in particular and Kwara as a whole.

    The new monarch promised to work for peace and unity in order to complement the state Governor’s efforts on peacekeeping and general well-being of the citizens.

    He pledged to further promote peace and understanding among his subjects, whose support he described as key to achieving communities of their desire.

    He thanked the state government and the people of his communities for the confidence reposed in him.

    The statement read, “Ascends the throne of Agunjin Land a new dawn breaks over Agunjin, a moment etched in gold in the annals of history pass the crown of the Ariwajoye Adekeye Royal Dynasty returns to its rightful home.

    “With this homecoming, the living legacy of Agunjin’s royal heritage is renewed, strengthened, and destined to shine for generations to come.

    “The Adekeye Royal Family extends profound gratitude to Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, The Chairman, Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Dr. Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari,The Chairman, Igbomina Traditional Rulers Forum, Oba Ismail Bolaji Yahaya,Olupo of Ajase Ipo among others.”

  • Ooni, Idjerhe monarch push for stronger ties between royal fathers, govt

    Ooni, Idjerhe monarch push for stronger ties between royal fathers, govt

    • …as Udurhie I pays historic visit to Ile-Oodua

    In a show of cultural solidarity and royal diplomacy, the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, and the Ovie of Idjerhe Kingdom, His Majesty Udurhie I have called for deeper collaboration between Nigeria’s traditional rulers and government to foster national unity, preserve cultural heritage, and accelerate development.

    The two monarchs made the call during a historic visit of the Urhobo king to the Ooni’s Ile-Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where they also urged government to urgently address infrastructural decay in the Niger Delta and other regions of the country.

    Praising President Bola Tinubu’s reform policies, they pledged prayers and support for his administration, stressing that traditional rulers remain vital stakeholders in national stability.

    The Ooni, visibly excited about the visit, described it as “a moment of cultural unity and royal friendship.”

    Commending Udurhie I for projecting Idjerhe Kingdom on the global stage, he said: “Thank you for coming all the way from Idjerhe in Delta State. I thank you for showing Idjerhe Kingdom to the entire world. 

    “I want to assure you that we will work more closer for the betterment of the two kingdoms and southern Nigeria. We’ll work closer for the betterment of Nigeria as a whole. 

    Read Also: Ooni picks August 16 to unveil social media

    “Thank you for all you do for the people of Idjerhe, Niger Delta and Nigeria. You deserve to be celebrated. I urge the people of Idjerhe Kingdom to support, revere and honour him. We, traditional rulers, we live for the people, for their betterment, for their welfare and their greatness.”

    On his part, Udurhie I, who was accompanied by two traditional chiefs, a former federal lawmaker Rt. Hon. Halims Agoda, Chief (Col.) Festus Agisogu and Chief Otite Anighoro, emphasized that while politicians may falter, the royal institution “cannot and should not afford to fail” as it remains the custodian of tradition and a unifying force across the country.

    “We remain the group that holds the nation together. We are the source of the traditional fabric and our heritage. Sustaining the royal institution is essential, and you (the Ooni) have been doing this very well,” Udurhie I told his host.

    He also appealed for fairer federal attention to the Southsouth in infrastructure and appointments, stressing that the Niger Delta’s oil wealth must translate into tangible development.

    He cited the need for improved road networks to enhance access to Niger Delta communities, arguing that overreliance on river transport limits development and security monitoring.

    He further hailed the Ooni for his leadership role as co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, urging him to continue speaking for ordinary Nigerians.

    The traditional ruler also highlighted the cultural resilience of Idjerhe, with its 97 oil-producing communities and heritage practices such as the Okurru native communication system, just as he pledged his kingdom’s support for collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening the traditional institution and fostering unity across Nigeria’s regions.

    The visit ended with a royal dinner, a stage play on Yoruba ancient warfare at the Ooni’s art gallery, and the presentation of the historic Ojaja plaque to the Idjerhe monarch. Oba Ogunwusi also pledged to reciprocate the gesture with a visit to Idjerhe Kingdom.

  • NBTE, senior staff hit back at ‘false, malicious’ recruitment scandal report

    NBTE, senior staff hit back at ‘false, malicious’ recruitment scandal report

    The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and senior officers named in an online publication have dismissed allegations of financial fraud, illegal recruitment, and job racketeering against its Executive Secretary, Prof. Idris Bugaje, as “false, malicious, and a calculated smear campaign.”

    Reacting to the August 14 report by Sahara Reporters, Prof. Bugaje accused the platform of failing to seek his side of the story before publication, relying instead on “tissues of lies” from unnamed sponsors with vested interests.

    Read Also: NBTE replies ASUP, explains rationale for outsourcing polytechnics’ accreditation

    He maintained that all recruitments under his leadership were conducted strictly in line with public service rules, with vacancies identified, waivers secured, and approvals obtained from the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. “There has never been any recruitment conducted without due process and extant laws duly followed. The Minister of Education was never bypassed in any exercise,” he said.

  • No President in decades has prioritised road infrastructure like President Tinubu, Minister State Works Goronyo declares

    No President in decades has prioritised road infrastructure like President Tinubu, Minister State Works Goronyo declares

    The Minister of State for Works, Bello Goronyo, says no president in the last 40 years has given as much priority to road infrastructure as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Goronyo, who spoke at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja with the the Managing Director of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), disclosed that the President has directed the immediate rehabilitation of major bridges in bad condition across the country.

    According to him, bridges slated for urgent repairs include the Wukari–Jalingo Bridge, Makwa Bridge, Gurara Bridge, Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge, among others, in a move aimed at boosting economic corridors and easing movement nationwide.

    “The secret behind this is the unwavering commitment and support of Mr. President,” Goronyo said. “In his Renewed Hope agenda, infrastructure is priority number five as a key enabler of growth and development. I can say without mincing words that there has never been a president in the last four decades that has given this much attention to infrastructure.”

    He praised the leadership of the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for “putting his wealth of engineering experience to bear” in delivering key projects, while commending FERMA’s efforts to maintain over 36,000 kilometres of federal roads despite limited funding.

    The minister listed critical legacy projects under Tinubu’s administration to include the Lagos–Sokoto road, Lagos–Badagry expressway, Lagos–Calabar coastal highway, Ebonyi–Nasarawa–Abuja route, and the Trans-Saharan corridor from Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe.

    He added that all 36 states have benefitted from road interventions, with ongoing works in strategic corridors such as Abuja–Lokoja, Abuja–Kaduna–Kano, and Sokoto–Zaria.

    Read Also: Okonjo-Iweala’s praise for Tinubu’s reforms plus for 2027 re-election

    “This is a president that cares for every region. He is a people’s president, present for all. With his support, we are confident of delivering prosperity and the much-needed development of our dear nation,” he concluded.

    FERMA’s Managing Director, Chukwuemeka Agbasi, stressed the importance of the stakeholders’ meeting, describing it as a platform to strengthen collaboration with key players in the transport and petroleum sectors.

    “We are working round the clock to ensure our federal highways remain in good condition. Despite the lean budget, we are adopting innovative maintenance strategies to cover more roads and respond quickly to emergencies,” he said.

    National President of NARTO, Yusuf Othman, said the meeting was timely, stressing that better roads would improve safety, reduce vehicle operating costs, and boost the efficiency of goods transportation.

    “Our members ply these roads daily, and we know first-hand the impact bad roads have on the economy. This collaboration with the Works Ministry and FERMA gives us confidence that change is coming,” he noted.

    National Chairman of IPMAN, Abubakar Maigandi, pledged the association’s support for government’s road initiatives, especially in facilitating the smooth movement of petroleum products.

    “Good roads mean faster and safer delivery of fuel across the country. It will reduce delays and losses, which ultimately benefits every Nigerian,” Maigandi said.

  • Yiaga Africa urges Tinubu to appoint persons with proven experience in managing elections into INEC

    Yiaga Africa urges Tinubu to appoint persons with proven experience in managing elections into INEC

    A non-governmental organisation, Yiaga Africa has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the appointment of experienced and independent-minded leaders with proven experience in managing elections to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Executive Director, Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo made the demand at a high-level roundtable discussion on safeguarding INEC’s independence in Abuja.

    Itodo, who is a lawyer, warned that poorly considered appointments could weaken the electoral body and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

    Read Also: By-election: INEC distributes sensitive materials in Edo

    The Yiaga Africa chief noted that upcoming leadership transitions within INEC must be managed carefully to avoid eroding the institution’s capacity to deliver credible elections.

    The tenure of present chairman of INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu would end in November this year with the president expected to appoint his replacement.

  • Retired Police officers reject further talks with PENCOM DG, insist on exit from CPS

    Retired Police officers reject further talks with PENCOM DG, insist on exit from CPS

    The Nigerian Union of Retired Police Officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) has rejected further engagement with the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Ms. Omolola Bridget Oloworaran, insisting on their exit from the scheme.

    The retirees reiterated their demand for the establishment of a Nigeria Police Pension Board and the transition of police personnel to the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS). They said only such steps would address the decades-long pension crisis bedeviling retired officers.

    This was contained in a statement issued in Kaduna and signed by the Kaduna State Chairman, CSP Mannir M. Lawal (Rtd), on behalf of 35 other state chapters. He said members unanimously resolved to boycott future meetings with the PENCOM boss, describing further talks as a waste of time.

    According to Lawal, the union had clearly communicated its position during the 7th August 2025 meeting with the DG and expected immediate action rather than more dialogue. “We urge the DG to focus on implementing our demands, not endless discussions,” he stressed.

    Read Also: PenCom moves to prosecute 12 recalcitrant employers

    It would be recalled that the union, alongside its 35 state chapters and the FCT, staged what it called the ‘Mother of All Peaceful Protests’ in Abuja on July 21, demanding removal from the CPS and creation of a Police Pension Board. The protest drew solidarity from activists including Omoyele Sowore and Dan Bello.

    Following the protest, PENCOM’s DG met with selected union leaders where she urged them to remain under the CPS, citing alleged past fraud in the DBS. But the retirees dismissed her argument, blaming corruption by administrators, not the scheme itself, for past failures.

    Though Oloworaran promised to reconvene another meeting within two weeks, the retirees have resolved not to attend, insisting that their demands must be implemented first.

    An official letter conveying their stance has been sent to the PENCOM DG, with copies to the Inspector-General of Police, the Senate President, the DSS, and the Chief of Staff to the President.

  • Yoruba leaders visit Tinubu, applaud bold reforms

    Yoruba leaders visit Tinubu, applaud bold reforms

    Frontline Yoruba leaders, Aare Tomori Williams, the Aare Onikoyi of Yorubaland, and Oba Bashiru Odesanya, the Oloto of Oto and Lagos Mainland have commended President Bola Tinubu’s bold reforms.

    It was a gathering that blended the weight of tradition with the vision of modern leadership when they met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    The meeting, a courtesy call, represented a convergence of cultural heritage, economic expertise, and political leadership — all anchored on one goal: Nigeria’s long-term stability and prosperity.

    Aare Williams, a respected real estate mogul and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of T. Williams Construction Nigeria Limited and Olaleye Property & Investment Limited, used the occasion to applaud the President’s bold reforms and unwavering commitment to building a stronger nation.

    He noted that Tinubu’s policies, though challenging in their early phases, were already laying the groundwork for infrastructural renewal, increased investor confidence, and expanded opportunities for Nigerian youths.

    “As a businessman deeply involved in construction and real estate, I see firsthand how government vision translates into real-world growth,” Williams said. “When leadership focuses on unity, security, and grassroots development, it inspires confidence and drives the kind of transformation our country needs.”

    Read Also: Tinubu Media Force hails Okonjo-Iweala’s commendation as global validation of Tinubu’s economic reforms

    Oba Odesanya, speaking in the same vein, reaffirmed the readiness of Yoruba monarchs to work alongside the federal government in fostering peace, community growth, and sustainable development.

    For President Tinubu, the visit was both a source of encouragement and a reminder of the strength that comes from collaboration. He emphasized that Nigeria’s success story will be written through partnerships that unite the public sector, private enterprise, and traditional institutions.

    For Aare Williams, whose influence bridges the worlds of commerce and culture, the meeting was more than symbolic. It was a declaration of commitment to stand at the intersection of heritage and modern enterprise, working tirelessly with like-minded leaders to shape a Nigeria that works for all.

    By the close of the engagement, one message rang clear: nation-building is not the sole duty of government but a shared responsibility, and when tradition, business, and leadership align, the path to national development becomes stronger and more certain.

  • Olowu hails Babangida at 84, says history will be kind to ex-Military leader

    Olowu hails Babangida at 84, says history will be kind to ex-Military leader

    The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Oyelude Makama, CON, Tegbosun III, has felicitated with former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd.), on his 84th birthday.

    In a personally signed statement, Oba Makama praised Babangida for what he described as his modest achievements while in power.

    “IBB is an enigma. He has carved a niche for himself as a former military president. His tenure witnessed the completion of many monumental legacy projects that remain visible today. His Hilltop Mansion in Minna has become a Mecca of sorts for those who aspire to lead Nigeria,” the monarch stated.

    The Olowu further described Babangida as a leader who has been largely misunderstood but expressed confidence that history would judge him fairly.

    Read Also: Babangida launches local security production facility Vinicius International in Nigeria

    He said, “The launch of Gen Babangida’s Autobiography: ‘A Journey In Service’, and the testimonies from the likes of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and African richest man, Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia, Abdusalmad Rabiu, Oil Magnate, Arthur Eze and many others testified to his goodwill despite leaving public office three decades ago. 

    “On behalf of myself, my Oloris and Olowu-In- Council, all members of the defunct IBB vision 2003 and vision 2007 I wish president Ibrahim Babangida rtd, a happy birthday. I also wish him all the best as he aged gracefully,” Olowu added.

    Born on August 17, 1941, Gen Ibrahim Babangida rtd ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993.

     His presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms.