The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Okpebholo okays recruitment of youths

    Okpebholo okays recruitment of youths

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has said he has approved massive recruitment of youths into the civil service.

    He said the recruitment was to fast-track development across the state.

    Okpebholo spoke in Irrua at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally for Edo Central senatorial by-election scheduled for Saturday.

    Besides the recruitment of youths, the governor said his administration had begun projects in Edo Central.

    Read Also: By-election: Okpebholo promises 500-room hostel for AAU

    He listed them to include building of an ultra-modern market in Irrua, dualisation of Ekpoma–Ubiaja Road and extension of a 33kV power line to end erratic power supply in the area.

    Governor Okpebholo urged the people to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027, describing him as “a leader who loves Edo State.”

    He said: “If I do not develop my home, no one else will develop it.

    “My coming here is just to thank you and tell you that I am ready to serve and work for our people. You resisted rigging, and we won very well.”

  • ‘Stop blaming govt, take responsibility’

    ‘Stop blaming govt, take responsibility’

    The Association of Lagos State Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS) has urged Lagosians to stop blaming government for every societal problem.

    It said they should instead take personal responsibility for upholding laws, promoting ethical values and contributing to national progress.

    The advice was given at the association’s 12th Annual Summit in Lagos, with the theme: “Citizenship and Social Responsibilities: Sustaining Excellence in Lagos State.” The two-day event drew retired top civil servants, policymakers and stakeholders to address issues of good governance, citizen participation and moral rebirth.

    Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, speaking through the Permanent Secretary in his office, Mrs. Mojisola Daba, hailed ALARHOSPS for its consistency in promoting standards, processes and credibility in the state’s public service.

    Read Also: NOA commences enlightenment campaign on govt policies, security, others

    “The constitution makes it a responsibility on the citizens to support government in the service of the people by fulfilling their civic duties. I hope the summit will produce strategies to position Lagos as a resilient centre for the development of our people and investors,” Hamzat said.

    ALARHOSPS President, Otunba Nurudeen Ojora-Adejiyan, said the annual gathering remained a platform for generating ideas that shaped state and national policy.

    He recalled that last year’s focus on food security helped stimulate nationwide debate, with Lagos responding by launching the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company (LAFSINCO) to boost agricultural productivity and reduce food costs.

    He said this year’s theme was chosen to address Nigeria’s “moral and ethical decline.”

    “Our nation needs a rebirth towards the highest ethical and moral standards,” he said. “We must move beyond the blame game and take personal responsibility for the state of our society.”

    Vice President 1 of the association, Mrs. Grace Ebunola Oladimeji, said citizens had as much responsibility as government in building a functional society.

     “We are always pointing accusing fingers at the other person. We never look at ourselves as culpable,” she said. “If one person leaves this summit determined to do what is right, society will change. These simple actions, obeying traffic lights, not dumping refuse, not blocking drainage, matter.”

    She also called on law enforcement officers to lead by example.

    “Around Ikeja, Okada is still banned, yet you see law enforcement officers riding them. If they resolve to obey the same laws they enforce, it will go a long way to impact society positively,” she noted.

    Representing the Head of Service, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Adebopo Oyekan-Ismaila, said the summit provided a space for serving and retired senior civil servants to collaborate on practical recommendations for government.

    She advised government workers to be “good ambassadors” in their communities.

    “Everyone must lead and live by example so that the Lagos of our dreams will come to fruition,” she said.

    The summit will end with a communiqué outlining strategies for promoting ethical conduct, improving public trust and fostering stronger collaboration between citizens and government.

  • Ekiti to host International Theatre Festival

    Ekiti to host International Theatre Festival

    Ekiti State Government has announced its plan to host the International Theatre Festival from August 20 to 25 at Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre in Ado-Ekiti.

    The Festival Director and former Ekiti State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasaki Ojo-Bakare, said this yesterday at a news briefing in Ado-Ekiti.

    He said the festival would feature competitive performances by the 16 local governments, showcasing their theatrical talents, with the top four earning prizes and awards.

    He added that it would also feature three command performances celebrating Nigeria’s historical figures, including Sir Ladi Kwali and Chief Moshood Abiola.

    According to him, ‘’the festival aims to promote Ekiti State’s cultural heritage, drive economic growth and leverage the soft power of the arts to build the state’s reputation as a hub for creativity and talent.

    Read Also: Ekiti monarch Alara of Aramoko dies at 82

    Ojo-Bakare said the festival was expected to generate N2billion for the state, engaging over 10,000 employees and attracting around 200,000 participants from across the world.

    He said: “The festival will begin on August 20 and end on the 25th. On August 20, artists, tourists and stakeholders will arrive in Ekiti State. All the activities will hold inside this hall at Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre, except on August 24 when all of us will be going to Ikogosi. The activities of August 24 are devoted to Ikoogosi Resort.

    “The content of the festival is designed in a way that Ekiti State is mapped into the traditional 16 local governments. Each of the councils will bring a theatrical performance. So, the 16 local governments are competing and we will choose the best four for prizes and awards.

    “Bringing this festival into Ekiti is part of our efforts to mainstream creative arts into the economy of Ekiti State. We are hosting this festival because art is soft power in international and national diplomacy. I can proudly say Ekiti State today enjoys a good image nationally and internationally.

    “In public relations, in image making and building, the creative art is very powerful. It’s an image maker and through this festival, we are also contributing to the making of the global image of our dear state.”

  • Ogun extends deadline for presentation of property documents by two weeks

    Ogun extends deadline for presentation of property documents by two weeks

    Ogun State Government has extended the deadline for property owners/occupiers affected by the ongoing audit exercises to submit their title documents by two weeks.

    ‘’This extension is aimed at giving property owners and developers more time to either present their planning permits or approach the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development and its agencies to regularise their unapproved developments.

    Read Also: Ogun Govt, Daniel row over land escalates

    ‘’This extension demonstrates the goodwill of the state government in response to representations made by a cross-section of the affected property owners in Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode and reflects its commitment to the rule of law and transparency.’’

    The government said ‘’this magnanimity does not derogate whatsoever from its constitutional and statutory actions already carried out on the matter.’’

    It reiterated that the physical development audit exercise currently taking place in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode and elsewhere across the state was not a witch hunt of any individual or organisation, but a continuous effort towards ensuring sustainable urban development across the state.

  • Aregbesola in Lagos for ADC membership drive

    Aregbesola in Lagos for ADC membership drive

    The Interim National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, was at Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State to kick off ADC membership drive.

    He urged Nigerians to reject the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

    The former Minister of the Interior said neither is the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) nor the Labour Party (LP) the answer.

    A statement by a chieftain, Funmi Onita-Coker, quoted the former minister as urging the prospective ADC members to stand firm.

    Aregbesola said: “I am urging you to go out and spread the gospel of the ADC to all Nigerians, particularly those living in your local government areas.

    “Tell them that a new vista of hope and opportunity now awaits them in our party, as we promise a new deal that will see to it that our dear country, Nigeria, is reset to the path of development and progress.”

    He said: “I want you all to sensitise Nigerians on the need to join ADC and use the ADC platform to remove the APC government. “Having said that, I am also urging you as well as all other categories of Nigerians to vote and protect their votes by follow up vigilance.

    Read Also: INEC yet to recognise Mark, Aregbesola as chairman, secretary of ADC

    “I am also calling on you to make conscious efforts to register as voters in this INEC continuous voter registration.

    “That everybody for now should concentrate on mass mobilisation that party membership cards will be available soon.”

    Former Commissioner for Housing, Rahman Owokoniran, and ADC Chairman, George Ashiru, urged Lagosians to prepare for 2027.

    Oníta-Coker, who thanked the party members for their sacrifice and patience,  emphasised the importance of the mobilisation.

    Thanking the members, Ashiru promised that ADC would render honest and transparent leadership that would guarantee equal opportunities for Nigerians.

  • SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    The Sine Qua Non (SQN) Foundation has celebrated International Youth Day 2025 with an empowerment programme in Isheri Olofin, Lagos, themed “From Passion to Profession: Vocational Skills for Youth Empowerment.”

    The event brought together youths, educators, entrepreneurs, and traditional leaders to promote the importance of equipping young people with practical skills to navigate the current economic challenges.

    Hosted by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello of Isheri Olofin Kingdom — represented by Olori Bello — the monarch praised the initiative for prioritising vocational training.

    “Success today goes beyond academics. A skill can break financial barriers and help young people build a sustainable future,” she said, urging parents and youths to embrace hands-on learning as a pathway to self-reliance.

    Guest speaker and educationist, Mr. Tomi Otebade, cautioned that the white-collar job market is oversaturated.

    “Your degree is not enough anymore. We are in a global economic crisis, and the only way out is to pick up a skill,” he said, noting that many government-run training centres in Lagos remain underused due to low awareness.

    Otebade also commended SQN Foundation founder, Mr. Emmanuel Oyedepo, for his commitment to youth development, stating, “If we had more like him, our society would be much better.”

    Representing the founder, SQN Foundation Programme Manager, Mr. Henry Madufor, said the organisation’s mission is to redirect youths from excessive social media use to skill acquisition.

    “This programme is our way of showing that passion can be turned into a profession. We will sponsor selected participants for advanced vocational training and track their progress through mentorship,” he explained.

    Read Also: NSSF-backed Wamufat Youth Foundation’s sports clinic begins

    The event also featured practical advice from professionals, including lawyer and HR consultant, Mildred Jaja; fashion designer, Adewale Adetunji; and Oluchi, founder of Nails and Lush. They urged the youths to seize the opportunity, stressing that skills offer a more reliable path to stability than certificates alone.

    Charging the youth to take full advantage of opportunities on offer, Jaja said: “Many of us never got this chance of learning skills, so don’t waste it. Develop your skill, it will open doors, your certificate alone may not.”

    For Adetunji, he reminded the attendees that “education is great, but in this economy, it’s not enough. Skills are what will sustain you and your family.”

    On her part. Oluchi shared her journey into nail artistry and encouraged the youths to value customer service and product knowledge.

    “If you treat clients right, they’ll refer others. Learn well, and don’t rush into shortcuts,” she added.

    Closing the event, SQN Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Nigerian youths through scholarships, mentorship, and continuous engagement. Across all contributions, one message was clear: the future will belong to young people who are not only educated but also skilled, resourceful, and entrepreneurial.

  • Oyo Fulani group urges Makinde to show mercy in anti-open grazing law enforcement

    Oyo Fulani group urges Makinde to show mercy in anti-open grazing law enforcement

    The Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani Socio-Cultural Association in Oyo State has appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to temper justice with mercy in the enforcement of the state’s Anti-Open Grazing Law through the Oyo State Rule of Law Agency.

    Speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the association’s state chairman, Alhaji Sanni Muhammed, lamented that many of their cows and members have been arrested, detained, and fined in recent months. He claimed that, over the past six months, Fulani herders across the state have faced what they consider persecution by the agency.

    Muhammed urged Governor Makinde to personally intervene to prevent an impending crisis, warning that the current enforcement approach could threaten the survival of their members in Oyo State.

    He alleged that cattle ranches are often raided in the early hours of the morning and accused individuals claiming to be state agents of demanding daily cash transfers from members under unclear circumstances.

    “The enforcement of the new laws appears, in many cases, to be accompanied by acts that can only be described as discriminatory and unjust, creating fear and tension among our people.

    “We believe firmly that no group of citizens should be subjected to discrimination, injustice or jungle justice.

    “While we fully respect the authority of the Oyo State Government to make laws, we appeal that such laws be implemented in a fair, transparent, and humán manner, without jeopardising the livelihood of an entire community.

    “Your Excellency, Who are we to challenge the government? We are only appealing as loyal citizens for understanding, justice and protection. We urge your Excellency to direct relevant agencies to investigate the alleged illegal cash demand and harassment of our members.

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    “We call for the review of the enforcement approach of the anti-cattle rearing law to ensure it does not amount to targeted discrimination.

    “We want you to engage in dialogue with our leadership to find peaceful, sustainable solutions that safeguard both public interest and the livelihood of our members.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Oba Olakulehin gets military honour as Makinde, COAS, others bid farewell to late Olubadan

    “We pledge to remain lawful, cooperative, and loyal to your administration and the laws of Oyo State. We trust that in your wisdom and compassion, we will give urgent attention to this clarion call before the situation escalates.

    “We, the members of Miyetti Allah Kauta Hore, Oyo State Chapter, a duly registered Fulani social-cultural association committed to the well-being of our members and the progress of Oyo State, urge the Governor with utmost humility and respect to seek your urgent intervention in matters affecting our livelihood, dignity and peaceful coexistence

    “We are proud to be law-abiding, peace-loving and responsible citizens who have, over the years, contributed to the economy and food supply of our dear state.

    “We have always held you in high esteem as a listening leader among the governors for the masses. We are predominantly cattle rearers by heritage, a trade passed down for generations, in most cases, the only means of livelihood known to our members. We have consistently carried out our activities lawfully and in a manner that respects the peace and unity of the state.”

    Also, the Southwest Women Leader of the Association, Hajia Aminat Idris and chairman of the National Association of Cattle Dealers Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, Alhaji Dauda Adebayo, said as a Nigerian and law-abiding citizen of the state, they also contributed to the socio-economic development of the state.

    The duo, however, said the association will shut down all cattle markets across the state if the government fails to attend to their plight within two weeks.

  • Stop blaming government, take responsibility, say ex-Lagos heads of service, perm secs

    Stop blaming government, take responsibility, say ex-Lagos heads of service, perm secs

    The Association of Lagos State Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS) on Tuesday charged Lagosians to stop blaming the government for every societal problem and instead take personal responsibility for upholding laws, promoting ethical values, and contributing to national progress.

    The call came at the association’s 12th Annual Summit in Lagos, with the theme “Citizenship and Social Responsibilities: Sustaining Excellence in Lagos State.” The two-day event drew retired top civil servants, policymakers, and stakeholders to address issues of good governance, citizen participation, and moral rebirth.

    Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, speaking through the Permanent Secretary in his office, Mrs. Mojisola Daba, commended ALARHOSPS for its consistency in promoting standards, processes, and credibility in the state’s public service.

    “The constitution makes it a responsibility of the citizens to support the government in the service of the people by fulfilling their civic duties. I hope the summit will produce strategies to position Lagos as a resilient centre for the development of our people and investors.” Hamzat said.

    ALARHOSPS president, Otunba Nurudeen Ojora-Adejiyan, said the annual gathering remains a platform for generating ideas that shape state and national policy.

    He recalled that last year’s focus on food security helped stimulate nationwide debate, with Lagos responding by launching the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company (LAFSINCO) to boost agricultural productivity and reduce food costs.

    He explained that this year’s theme was chosen to address Nigeria’s “moral and ethical decline.”

    “Our nation needs a rebirth towards the highest ethical and moral standards,” he said. “We must move beyond the blame game and take personal responsibility for the state of our society.”

    Read Also: UNICEF, Katsina Government tackle malnutrition with N1b

    Vice President 1 of the association, Mrs. Grace Ebunola Oladimeji, stressed that citizens have as much responsibility as the government in building a functional society.

    “We are always pointing accusing fingers at the other person. We never look at ourselves as culpable,” she said. “If one person leaves this summit determined to do what is right, society will change. These simple actions, obeying traffic lights, not dumping refuse, not blocking drainage, matter.”

    She also called on law enforcement officers to lead by example.

    “Around Ikeja, Okada is still banned, yet you see law enforcement officers riding them. If they resolve to obey the same laws they enforce, it will go a long way to impact society positively,” she noted.

    Representing the Head of Service, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission, 7 Mrs. Adebopo Oyekan-Ismaila, said the summit provides a space for serving and retired senior civil servants to collaborate on practical recommendations for government.

    She charged government workers to be “good ambassadors” in their communities.

    “Everyone must lead and live by example so that the Lagos of our dreams will come to fruition,” she said.

    The summit will end with a communiqué outlining strategies for promoting ethical conduct, improving public trust, and fostering stronger collaboration between citizens and government.

  • Zacch Adedeji on a mission with people-centric reforms

    Zacch Adedeji on a mission with people-centric reforms

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is becoming more than a government agency. It is not today that we have been saying this, and it will not stop today or anytime soon. It is now being recognised as a partner in national development, driven by reforms that place people at the center and deliver measurable results.

    Over the past months, the leadership of Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, FIRS, has introduced a series of people-focused changes that have shown a tangible impact on our revenue system and the economy at large. 

    His work has been based on practical reforms in tax law, improved welfare for staff and citizens, the adoption of technology to streamline processes, stronger teamwork across departments, and a leadership style grounded in clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

    Just this August, the agency launched an electronic invoicing system for companies with an annual turnover of five billion naira or more. It went live on the first day of the month, and by the second week, about a thousand companies had already joined. Organizations like MTN, Huawei, and IHS are on board. Others have until November 1 to comply. The process is firm, but the rollout has been managed carefully, giving companies enough time to adjust without disruption.

    The effects are already showing. Afri Invoice, a local Nigerian company that provides e-invoicing solutions, has created 150 new jobs in seven states to meet the demand. It may seem small, but it serves as proof that one effective policy can open the door to more jobs and economic growth.

    Not long after, on August 7, FIRS held its first Research Day. It was not an event for long talks but a day of action and openness. Three (3) main resources were made public. The first was the Tax Revenue Statistical Bulletin, containing more than fifty years of tax data from 1970 to 2022. The second was the official Research Policy, which sets out a framework for conducting transparent and high-quality studies. 

    The third was the latest volume of the FIRS Journal of Tax Studies, now available online. These materials are open to researchers, journalists, students, policymakers, and anyone who wants to understand our tax history and the direction we are headed.

    Step by step, these reforms show that when leadership is focused on people and guided by data, institutions can transform. The work being done at FIRS today is building not only better systems but also trust between the government and the people it serves.

    Let’s not forget that under the Tax Boss, tax education and public engagement have also taken a new shape. FIRS has stepped up its outreach to small and medium enterprises, offering guidance on compliance and breaking down processes that once felt complicated and far removed from the everyday business owner. 

    The agency has also strengthened partnerships with state revenue services, ensuring that both federal and state systems work together rather than compete.

    Capacity building for staff has been prioritised, with training programs designed to give them the skills and tools to meet modern tax administration demands. In addition, reforms in dispute resolution have made it faster and easier for taxpayers to settle issues without lengthy court battles, promoting a more cooperative relationship between the agency and the general public. Digital platforms have been improved, meaning that many taxpayers can now register, file, and pay from the comfort of their offices or homes.

    Sometimes, you stop and wonder how one person can have so much vision while truly keeping the needs of people in mind. Dr. Zacch understands difficult challenges but never loses sight of those who live them every day. His efforts are effective, making changes that touch many lives. 

    The progress seen today comes from thoughtful decisions and a commitment to serve others. In a country where many lead for themselves, he leads for the people. When you think about leadership that combines critical thinking with care, the answer is not far-fetched. It can only be him.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service Contact@arabinrinaderonke.com

  • Ibadan will witness peace, development under Ladoja’s reign as Olubadan – Olugbode family

    Ibadan will witness peace, development under Ladoja’s reign as Olubadan – Olugbode family

    The descendants of Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode in Ita Baale, Ibadan, have expressed confidence that the city will experience greater development, peace, and tranquility during the reign of Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.

    Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode, an Owu native, was the seventh traditional ruler of Ibadan, reigning between 1851 and 1864. 

    Historical records said that he was the one who introduced the Otun Olubadan line into the city’s chieftaincy structure.

    In a statement signed by Chief Tesleem Abiodun Olugbode, Mogaji of the Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family and released to journalists on Tuesday, the clan congratulated Ladoja on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing his wealth of political experience and business acumen as assets that will bring progress to the ancient city.

    The Otun Olubadan and former Oyo State governor was chosen by the Olubadan-in-Council to succeed the late 43rd Olubadan, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away last month. 

    The family, speaking on behalf of all Olugbode and Owu descendants in Ibadan, expressed optimism that Ladoja’s leadership will usher in a new era of development for Ibadanland.

    “On behalf of the entire Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode and other Owu descendants both at home and in the Diaspora in Ibadan, I am using this medium to congratulate the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. 

    “Our projenitor, Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode was the 7th Baale of Ibadan and reigned for thirteen (13) years, between 1851-1864. Baale Oyesile Olugbode was the one who introduced the Otun Olubadan line to Ibadan traditional system. 

    “As we know, all Ibadan indigenes hailed from one place or the other, Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode hailed from Owu. We have many families that are also from Owu in Ibadan and all of them are under Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family. I am greeting Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja on behalf of all descendants of Olugbode and other Owu descendants in Ibadanland. 

    “The Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family and other Owu descendants are happy today that Oba Ladoja has been nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland by the Olubadan-in-Council. We have the conviction that his reign will witness more developmental projects, peace and tranquility. 

    “He is experienced, he has served as Senator, Governor and has served in different capacities at different times. As a former governor and business tycoon, we have the belief that he is capable to ensure that Ibadan wears a new look. 

    “We want to use this medium to appeal to all indigenes and residents of Ibadanland to give him the necessary support”.