The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Firm’s investment in agric excites Ekiti Reps Caucus

    Firm’s investment in agric excites Ekiti Reps Caucus

    Members of Ekiti State Caucus in the House of Representatives have lauded Cavista Holdings for its contributions to agriculture and tourism development.

    They made this known during a visit to two of the company’s flagship investments — Agbeyewa Farms and Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Centre.

    Led by Femi Bamisile, the delegation included AVM Rufus  Ojuawo (rtd), Olusola Fatoba and David Akinlayo.

     The lawmakers were received by Cavista Holdings’ leadership team, including Olumide Olayomi, Vice President/Executive Director of Cavista Holdings, Lanre Balogun, General Manager of Glocient Hospitality, a Cavista subsidiary managing the Ikogosi Resort, and Seyi Aiyeleso, MD/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms.

    At Agbeyewa Farms, located in the heart of Ekiti, the lawmakers expressed deep admiration for the scale, innovation, and impact of the agricultural project. Reputed as Nigeria’s largest cassava farm, Agbeyewa is driving food security, youth empowerment, and rural development in the region.

    READ ALSO: Transforming health sector

    “I used to think I had a farm, but after visiting Agbeyewa, I realized I have a garden,” remarked AVM Rufus Ojuawo.

    Bamisile, who reflected on his time living in the United States, added: “It baffles me that someone can be in his comfort zone in the U.S. and still think of investing in agricultural activity like this in Ekiti. This is more than giving back.”

    David Akinlayo, moved by the transformation he witnessed, pledged further support: “I’m humbled today, and I’m happy because the Chairman of Agbeyewa Farms, John Olajide, is from my constituency. He has done wonderfully well here, and I’m going to sponsor 100 youths from my constituency for training.”

    The visit also included a tour of the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center, which has undergone significant revitalization under the management of Glocient Hospitality. Once in a state of disrepair, the resort is now reclaiming its place as a premier tourism destination in Nigeria.

    “In my recent visits to Ikogosi, I was dazed that the same resort that had almost lost all its natural ambience and beauty has now been turned around by Glocient. Kudos to John Olajide and his team,” AVM Ojuawo stated.

    Olusola Fatoba emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting such private sector-led initiatives:“We commend our amiable Governor, Mr. Abiodun Oyebanji, for his commitment to driving investment in Ekiti State. We also commend the patriotic zeal of the Chairman of Glocient and Agbeyewa, John Olajide. As members of the National Assembly, we will ensure Agbeyewa receives all the necessary support from relevant government agencies.”

    The visit underscores the growing synergy between the public and private sectors in catalyzing socio-economic transformation in Ekiti State.

    Cavista Holdings remains committed to building companies that create value, generate employment, and contribute to the long-term development of Nigeria.

  • Gbagi traders protest alleged conversion of car park to shops

    Gbagi traders protest alleged conversion of car park to shops

    Allegation false, mischievous – Oyo govt

    Traders at the popular Bola Ige International market (Gbagi market) Ibadan have berated the Oyo State Government over alleged conversion of car park at the market to new shops.

    The traders lamented hardship posed by the new shop on their daily living, saying most of them, particularly petty traders cannot afford to pay N7.5 millon to buy the newly constructed shops being sold by the State Government.

    Some of the traders, who spoke with The Nation, described construction of the new shops at the car park of the market, allegedly carried out at midnight as unfortunate.

    They said they have written several petitions to Governor Seyi Makinde, his Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi, Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, Majority Leader of the House, Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, and Babaloja General of Oyo State to no avail.

    The traders, who lamented the discomfort denial of a car park has caused to customers, passers-by as well as market men and women, said the development was insensitive and demoralising.

    One of them, who pleaded anonymity said: “Right now, there’s no designated place to park in the market. All day, everywhere has been clumsy because people had to park right inside the market.

    “It’s happening out of nowhere. We just got to the market today and they said they are acting on the orders of (Governor) Seyi Makinde.”

    The traders also pointed to the clandestine nature of the construction, which started in the middle of the night, as a pointer to what they describe as an unacceptable disorganisation of the market.

    The construction, which was said to have started in the middle of the night to prevent the unsuspecting traders from halting it, has sparked outrage in the market.

    The Nation gathered that the shop* occupied by traders in the market were recently allocated by the State Government, with each trader paying N5 million naira for a very small store.

    “I collected a loan to be able to afford this shop. I collected a loan of N5 million and I have to pay back six million,” one of the affected traders explained.

    However, the construction of new shops at the market’s car park has created a gridlock, making accessibility to current shops in the market difficult for potential customers. 

    “How do they expect us to make enough sales,” another trader in the market asked rhetorically. “My mother has a stroke. If I don’t make sales, how do I take care of her,” another trader added.

    Multiple sources further explained that the construction of the new shops, which the government reportedly intend to allocate at N7.5 million each, is happening in spite of various protest letters written to the State government about its potential negative impact on trading activities in the market.

    Some traders further alleged that the State Government has resorted to ‘threats of military intervention’ to clampdown on traders.

    Read Also: Ibadan traders beg Makinde to stop planned demolition at Gbagi market

    But Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperative and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi ,debunked the allegations, saying they were entirely false, mischievous, and an intentional misrepresentation of an ongoing, well-planned redevelopment project.

    According to him, Gbagi market redevelopment effort is being spearheaded in phases by the Oyo State Government, under the supervision of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, in close partnership with the market leadership and representatives of zonal traders’ associations.

    Adebisi said the portion of land being referred to was not an official car park but an underutilised area, prone to illegal vending and security risks.

    The Commissioner said following broad consultation with stakeholders, the space was approved for formal stall development to promote orderliness and improve access and safety within the market environment.

  • Group celebrates Canada-based lawyer Olaojo Vincent on birthday

    Group celebrates Canada-based lawyer Olaojo Vincent on birthday

    A socio-political group, Oye-Ekiti Progressives, has congratulated Canada-based lawyer and CEO of WhiteRock Energy Resources, Olaojo Temitope Vincent, on the occasion of his birthday.

    In a statement jointly signed by the group’s president, Mrs. Ronke Olaoba, and youth leader, Comrade Dayo Ogunbiyi, the group described Olaojo as a beacon of visionary leadership and a strong pillar of support for the people of Oye-Ekiti and Ekiti State as a whole.

    The group commended Olaojo for his consistent humanitarian efforts, support for small-scale businesses, and commitment to youth empowerment, noting that his contributions have made a lasting impact on the lives of many within the community.

    The statement reads, “Today, we join thousands of Oye-Ekiti indigenes at home and in the diaspora to celebrate a man whose name has become synonymous with purposeful leadership. Olaojo Temitope Vincent is a committed son of Oye-Ekiti who has never abandoned his roots.”

    Read Also: Canada-based lawyer Olaojo condemns Benue killings, demands justice, compensation for victims

    The group praised his contributions to youth and women empowerment, citing skill acquisition programs and educational scholarships, among others.

    “Through the provision of grants to our women, Olaojo has shown us what humanity truly looks like. He is a purposeful bridge between the grassroots and privileged persons in the power circle, Mrs. Ajayi stated. 

    The statement concluded with prayers for long life, renewed strength, and greater political elevation.

  • SafeKids Consult champions child safety, digital protection awareness

    SafeKids Consult champions child safety, digital protection awareness

    With growing concerns over child safety in Nigeria, a non-profit group, SafeKids Consult, is stepping up efforts to bridge gaps in protection for children both at home and in schools.

    Founded by Adejumoke Sangolana, the organisation is at the forefront of advocacy to curb negligence, raise awareness, and promote digital and physical safety education for Nigerian children.

    It focuses particularly on low- and middle-income schools, many of which lack the infrastructure and training to prevent avoidable accidents or address emerging digital threats.

    According to data from the National Safety Council, National Centre for Injury Prevention and Control, and the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), injuries remain the leading cause of death among children and young adults.

    The CDC notes that about 12,000 individuals aged 1 to 19 die annually from unintentional injuries. While Nigeria lacks corresponding national data, incidents of school-related accidents and inadequate safety measures in learning environments are not uncommon.

    To address this, SafeKids Consult recently held the second edition of its Child Safety Outreach in Lagos, with the theme “Enabling the Guardians of the Digital Age.” The programme focused on educating school staff, parents, and children on the evolving landscape of child safety, particularly the risks associated with technology.

    “This outreach was about helping schools and parents understand both the opportunities and the risks,” said Sangolana, who also convened the event. “Technology has opened up the world for our children, but it has also exposed them to online predators, harmful content, and emotional vulnerabilities.”

    Keynote speaker and founder of QHSES Academy, Engr. Jamiu Badmos decried the recurring neglect of safety planning in Nigerian schools.

    “We have lost children in Lagos to preventable incidents during school events because there were no emergency plans or first aid support,” he said. “We must begin to prioritise risk assessment and prevention in every school.”

    Also speaking at the event, the pioneer Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Odebunmi, commended the initiative and encouraged schools to embrace digital safety learning tools, such as AskPaddie, a YouTube-based child safety platform.

    “Nigeria must become safer, and that starts with ensuring our children learn safety from an early age,” she said.

    CEO of HSENations, Femi DaSilva, echoed the call for early safety education, describing SafeKids Consult’s outreach as a catalyst for long-term behavioural change.

    “Teaching safety from childhood creates a culture that values life, health, and well-being,” he noted. “SafeKids is not just raising awareness, they’re changing the narrative.”

    The event featured a robust expert-led panel moderated by Habeeb Salaudeen, Governor of SustainablePEOPLE. Panellists included Omonefe Francis of Kennedia HMO Ltd, Elizabeth Oyinlola of The Trusted Advisors, digital safety expert Udoh Bassey, RC Oluwafemi Runsewe of the Federal Road Safety Corps, and Odufuye Akinbowale of Kevron Consulting Ltd.

    Discussions centred on practical interventions for school safety gaps, digital exposure, and the role of parents in child protection. Participants explored tools, policies, and innovations that can make communities more responsive to safety threats affecting children.

    Other highlights included a safety quiz competition for pupils, first aid demonstrations, and a school debate. The organisation also unveiled safety flashcards and staged a play adaptation of its debut children’s storybook, “Sam Learns Safety,” designed to make safety education more engaging for young learners.

    Participants received back-to-school items and safety equipment, while teachers and parents gained hands-on training to better safeguard children under their care.

    “The impact of this outreach was visible even before the programme ended,” Sangolana remarked. “Parents, teachers, and children told us they were leaving with lessons that could one day save a life.”

    With initiatives like this, SafeKids Consult is pushing for a cultural shift, one that places child safety at the heart of parenting and education in Nigeria.

  • NECA partners Oyo govt on sustainability of business environment

    NECA partners Oyo govt on sustainability of business environment

    The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) is set to collaborate with the Oyo state government towards ensuring the sustainability of the business environment in the state.

    The step, according to the Director General of NECA, Adewale-Smart Oyerinde, was to strengthen public-private dialogue for business environmental sustainability across the state.

    Speaking in Ibadan during an engagement between the state government and organised private sector, theme: Strengthening Public-Private Dialogue for Environmental Sustainability in Oyo State, Oyerinde stated that one of the biggest signals to collaboration is the willingness to listen.

    He said the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has shown willingness to listen to the organised private sector to ensure sustainability of the business environment.

    He noted that the government needs the private sector to drive development across the state, adding that the private sector also needs the government to create an enabling environment through regulations and laws.

    “It is a mutually inclusive collaboration for all of us. If we don’t collaborate, the people we are trying to save, the masses, will suffer for it.

    “We are glad that we have taken this bold step with the Ministry of Environment, and we shall continue to deepen the engagement not only for the good of business, but for all citizens of the state.

    In his remark, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Barr. Temilolu Ashamu said the Ministry remained committed towards fostering a transparent, fair and enabling regulatory environment that supported responsible partnership and businesses.

    He stated that his Ministry is ready to provide technical assistance, engage regularly with stakeholders in policy and implementation and promote collaborative initiatives that will advance and collective environmental goals.

    “Our doors are open for dialogue, partnership and innovation, as we strive to make environmental sustainability a cornerstone of development in Oyo State.”

    He, however, urged participants at the event to reflect on how their operations and investments can not only comply with environmental laws but also go beyond compliance to become champions of sustainability.

    He emphasised the critical role the private sector played in promoting environmental protection and sustainable business practices.

    “Your sector is a key driver of economic growth, innovation and job creation, and I believe that we can work together to achieve a more sustainable future

    “Sustainable development cannot be achieved alone by the government; it requires participation and active partnership with the private sector. Public-private partnerships have the potential to drive innovation, strengthen compliance and promote green investment.

    “Our mutual goal is to create a thriving economy that does not come at the expense of our land, air, water and well-being of our people.”

    In his remark, the Chairman, Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Ecology and Water Resources, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahaman, said the Committee remained open for continuous collaboration both with the organised private sector, as a group or with individual companies.

    “Beyond conversation, we must see action that inspires, responsibility and strengthens our shared resolve to leave behind a cleaner, safer and more sustainable Oyo State.”

    Read Also: NECA makes case for reform policies alignment

    Also, the chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states, represented by the Treasurer, Sunday Aboriomoh, appealed to the Ministry of Environment to always carry MAN along in its decision-making and policy formulation that affect the environment in the state.

    He said the Oyo State House of Assembly must also collaborate with the Ministry of Environment so as to create an enabling environment for business to thrive in the state.

    He lamented that members of MAN are passing through various challenges such as high exchange rate, high bank interest rate and others, which forced some of their companies to fold up, while some are producing at 30 percent capacity.

    He, however, urged the government to prevail on banks to give MAN a low interest rate so as to foster an enabling environment and economic development across Oyo State.

  • Ododo praised for appointing Oganenigwu indigenes, urged to commence road project

    Ododo praised for appointing Oganenigwu indigenes, urged to commence road project

    Renowned philanthropist and national coordinator of the Super Eagles legends of Nigeria, Dr Hassan Ocholi, has lauded Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for appointing sons and daughters of Oganenigwu Ward in Dekina Local Government Area into his administration.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Lokoja on Tuesday, Ocholi described the appointments as inclusive and strategic, saying they reflect the governor’s commitment to grassroots development and recognition of local talents.

    He commended the governor for what he termed astute leadership, calling him a “Chief Servant” and “perpetual promise keeper” whose style of governance has brought remarkable progress across key sectors such as education, health, agriculture, security, and infrastructure.

    Ocholi also appealed to the governor to prioritise the long-overdue construction of the Iyale–Odolu Efu–Oganenigwu Road, a major route linking several agrarian communities in the state.

    “The commencement of this road project is crucial to unlocking the full economic potential of our communities,” he said. “Improved infrastructure will boost the transportation of agricultural produce, reduce post-harvest losses, and connect rural dwellers to essential services.”

    According to him, the Oganenigwu region is highly productive in crops such as cashew, maize, cassava, oil palm, soybeans, and yams, but decades of poor road infrastructure have stifled economic growth and limited access to healthcare and markets.

    Dr Ocholi reaffirmed his unwavering support for Governor Ododo’s developmental agenda and pledged to mobilise community support to ensure the success of the road project.

    Read Also: Ododo welcomes defectors into APC

    He urged the governor to set a specific date for the flag-off of the construction and to be physically present at the ceremony, citing the symbolic importance of such a move given the long-standing neglect of the Iyale–Oganenigwu road.

    “The presence of His Excellency at the flag-off will restore hope to the people and mark a new beginning for the Oganenigwu community,” he said.

    Community leaders and stakeholders have also expressed readiness to cooperate with contractors and support the state government’s efforts once mobilisation begins.

    They expressed hope that the project’s commencement would usher in improved economic opportunities, smoother access to markets, and better integration of their communities into the state’s development agenda.

  • Ladipo market harps on cleanliness at quarterly sanitation

    Ladipo market harps on cleanliness at quarterly sanitation

    The multimillion Ladipo Automobile Spare parts market in Mushin, Lagos, has held its quarterly sanitation with a call for cleanliness.

    During the exercise, as usual, the leaders of the market shut their members’ shops for six hours from 7 am to ensure full compliance by traders. non-compliance attracts sanctions.

    The traders, as well as sanitation workers, worked hard to clean every nook and cranny of the market. On hand to move the debris to designated spots in the state were officials of the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), who ensured that the refuse was left unattended to and ended up littering their environment, thereby leading to a waste of their efforts.

    The President-General, Ladipo Central Executive Committee of Auto Dealers Association (LACEC), Africanus Ogudoro, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of this edition of the programme held every three months. He said the market’s executive fixed a separate day for the cleaning of the market, apart from one ordered by the government on Thursday every week because they want the market to be very clean.

    He affirmed that gone were the days when Ladipo market was referred to as a dirty market, adding one of the executives’ focal area is cleanliness, noting that cleanliness is next to godliness. He also said no customer would do business in a dirty environment.

    Read Also: Ladipo auto market holds sanitation

    He thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Mushin Local Government for harping on clean environment. He pledged the market’s support to the government’s policies aimed at making the state a cleaner and better place.

    Also, the market’s Environmental Sanitation, Mazi Nonso Chuifo, praised his colleagues for their performance, adding that there were no plans to stop the programme.

    He urged them not to rest on their oars to keep the market continually clean.

    Specifically, he thanked LAWMA officials for being alive to their responsibility.

  • WAFCON: Babayemi commends Tinubu’s reward system

    WAFCON: Babayemi commends Tinubu’s reward system

    Omooba Dotun Babayemi, a contender for the governorship ticket of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, has commended President Bola Tinubu for honouring and rewarding the efforts of Super Falcon squad for doing the country proud by winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

    Babayemi also charged that government at all levels in Nigeria should evolve mechanisms that would help develop sports at the grassroots so as to guard against generational loss 

    While hosting the the victorious team, the nation helmsman had announced rewards of cash,a house and national merit award to each of them for achieving the feat.

    In a release from his media office,the governorship aspirant maintained that it was a thing of joy that the young ladies did the country proud by winning the coveted trophy, adding that it was equally heartening they have been appreciated by the nation as carried out by President Tinubu.

    “The gesture of President Bola Tinubu was prompt and commendable. It will drive a new message of hope and encouragement into the consciousness of Nigerians, especially the youth on the need to be committed and dedicated to the course and ideals that will make Nigeria great and always be at the front row in the comity of nations” said the Gbongan-born Prince.

    He said the President gesture would help to secure the future of the young girls, adding that it would equally assist in raising new generation of players who would want to give their all for the country in different endeavors they find themselves.

    Read Also: WAFCON 2024: Ajibade, Alozie, Nnadozie, Okoronkwo  named in Best XI

    In addition, he noted that the feat would propel their male counterparts to also go all out so as to ensure that the nation succeeds at various footballing and other sporting engagements before them

    “This is indeed a commendable gesture by President Tinubu. Such a reward system will definitely spur many young ones out there who are plyiing the same trade of football and others in different endeavors, to always give their best to the make the country proud” said Babayemi 

    Continuing, he added that the “Super falcons’ victory will no doubt,serve as an impetus and the needed verve that will inspire our youth at different levels. At the same time, their male counterparts, the Super Eagles, will be spurred into giving their best to the nation at every different footballing meet.Not only that, others in different sporting activities, will always make the nation first before thinking of pecuniary gains”

    Meanwhile, as the country is still engulfed in the euphoria of the victory of the Super Falcons,he has advised that it was high time sports was given due attention at the grassroots for an enduring all-round growth and development of sports in the country.

  • ICR: Corridor residents appeal to Makinde over alleged plan to extend corridors pillars 

    ICR: Corridor residents appeal to Makinde over alleged plan to extend corridors pillars 

    Residents living around the Ibadan Circular Road Corridor have appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde to resist any alleged plans to extend the road’s pillars beyond the approved 150-metre boundary.

    The concerned residents, numbering over ten thousand and spread across Oluyole, Egbeda, Ona-Ara, Lagelu, Akinyele, and Iddo local government areas, expressed fears that further expansion would worsen the displacement and hardship already caused by the ongoing construction.

    Operating under the umbrella of the Ibadan Circular Road Corridor Residents (ICRCR), the group made their concerns known in a statement jointly signed by their Coordinator, Prince Niyi Fasoye, and Secretary, Mr. Isiaq Jimoh.

    They alleged that the construction and the rumoured extension of the corridor’s pillars have already led to the deaths of some affected landlords and landladies due to trauma and stress.

    The statement read in part, “We want to appeal to Governor Makinde-led administration not to extend the Circular Road beyond the already marked areas.”

    The residents urged the governor to consider the human and economic costs involved and ensure that development projects are carried out with compassion and fairness.

    “We know our governor has listening ears. We want him to assist us. We have no other place we can go. We laboured so hard before putting these buildings in place. Our governor should consider us with this current economic hardship.

    Read Also: Makinde resets Oyo tourism agenda

    “Many of us have already been affected in the existing arrangement. We are now appealing to the State Government not to extend the Circular Road beyond the 150 metres.

    “The affected communities in the Oluyole Local Government include Egbeda Tuba, Tech u, and Ajoda; Lagelu LG include Ejioku, Eni Osa, Arulogun, Abaoba, Kotilo, Oyagaga, Ire-Akari, Lala, Obanijesu and Aba Oyo; Egbeda LG include Ayede and Erunmu; Ona-Ara LG include Ajia, Arowojeka, Badeku, Akamo, Àba-Otun, Mesio, Odeyale, Ifesowapo, Ifetola, Omolere and Oloruntola.

    “Akinyele LG include Aroro Kole, Molarere, Odo-Oba, Ibitunde, Tolatose, Olufana, Ile Ola, Eyin Olu, Oke and Salako; Ido LG are Omi-Adio, Wire & Cable, Fenwa, Elenusonso, Itesiwaju, Lariken, Inalende, Idi-Igbaro, Ogo-Oluwa, Bako, Jamoje,

    Lade, Olounde, Aganni, Shiba, Alayo, Isale-Alah, Akogi and Agbeni.

    “Our prayer is that the state government should consider us, they should not take beyond the already”

    Recalls that former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, led administration between 2003 and 2007 had marked some lands for the construction of a Circular Road in Ibadan.

    The project was not executed by the late former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala who took over from the administration of former Governor Ladoja.

    It was eventually executed by the administration of late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi who started the construction of the road when he was in office between 2011 and 2019.

  • Mosan-Okunola LCDA chair Akindele promises inclusive growth, security reforms

    Mosan-Okunola LCDA chair Akindele promises inclusive growth, security reforms

    The newly inaugurated Chairman of Mosan-Okunola Local Council Development Area, Akindele Adunni Opeyemi, has pledged a new chapter of purposeful leadership and tangible development across all wards.

    Addressing a crowd of dignitaries, party faithful, and residents at the LCDA Secretariat after her swearing-in by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu earlier at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja, Akindele reiterated her 10-point agenda, encapsulated in the acronym L.E.A.D.E.R.S.H.I.P.

    She described it as “not just a slogan, but a practical roadmap for responsible, inclusive, and visionary governance.”

    Her blueprint outlines a series of people-focused interventions. Among them is the Light Up Mosan-Okunola Project, which will see the deployment of solar-powered streetlights to boost security and support local businesses. 

    In education, her no child left behind initiative will provide free G.C.E and JAMB coaching, revamp public schools, and introduce adult literacy classes.

    Healthcare reforms under her administration include the upgrade of primary health centres, subsidised medication, and enhanced maternal care. 

    For young people, she pledged inter-ward sports tournaments, skill acquisition programmes, and youth engagement platforms.

    Environmental sanitation and beautification will be driven by strict waste management enforcement, routine desilting of drains, and partnerships with CDAs and CDCs. 

    On infrastructure, she declared a zero-tolerance policy for potholes, promising ongoing road rehabilitation across all wards.

    Akindele also committed to free healthcare and adult education for senior citizens, while women, youths, and persons with disabilities will benefit from empowerment schemes, including microcredit and vocational training.

    Security remains a key priority, with plans to strengthen community policing and deepen collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

    She also pledged to promote agriculture through urban farming and to rejuvenate local markets with subsidised food programmes and upgraded facilities.

    The chairman expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a mentor whose “bold reforms and leadership continue to reshape the nation.” 

    She praised his efforts, including the removal of fuel subsidy, the ₦1 trillion intervention fund, the Student Loan Act, and initiatives in national security.

    “I urge all Nigerians, especially our people at the grassroots, to be patient and hopeful. The seeds of reform are already planted — and in no distant time, we shall all reap the dividends of his leadership,” she affirmed.

    She also lauded Governor Sanwo-Olu for his strides in transport, education, and health under the T.H.E.M.E.S+ agenda.

    Special acknowledgment was given to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, whom she described as “the oxygen to her political career,” citing her time serving under him as Senior Special Assistant on Political Affairs in the 9th Assembly and on Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) in the 10th Assembly as a turning point in her journey.

    “You are the vessel God used to reignite my political journey — the oxygen to my public service career. May the Almighty continue to uplift and reward you,” she prayed.

    Read Also: Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham rekindle friendship

    Akindele recognized the support of prominent APC leaders, including Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, the President’s SSA on SDGs, and Prince Bisi Yusuf, the apex leader of Alimosho Federal Constituency.

    She thanked the electorate for their trust, saying, “Your votes were your voices — and we heard you.” She commended her team, including Vice Chairman Akintola Falade and the newly elected councillors, as “not just a team, but a movement.”

    Vowing to lead with transparency and accountability, she declared: “I stand here not as a ruler, but as your servant. Your trust is my sacred mandate. I will not let you down.”

    Akindele called on residents to rally behind the collective vision of progress: “This is not just a victory. It is a new dawn. A fresh chapter for Mosan-Okunola. So let us rise together. Let us build together. Let us lead — together.”