The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Meranda calls for stricter policies to end drug abuse

    Meranda calls for stricter policies to end drug abuse

    To combat the rising problem of substance abuse, the Deputy Speaker. Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Lasbat Meranda, has called for a review and implementation of the NDLEA Act.

    The Deputy Speaker made the call in Lagos at the Anti-Substance Abuse Program (ASAP) Stakeholders Conference, organised by the MTN Foundation in Falomo.

    Meranda added: “I remain committed to the well-being of our people in Lagos and Nigerians in general. I use this platform to call for a comprehensive review and implementation of the NDLEA Act, which will, ultimately, bring these policies to the state level so all State Houses of Assembly can get involved.”

    She called for stricter measures, particularly at the grassroots, to curb access and protect vulnerable citizens. She reiterated that prevention is cheaper and far more effective than rehabilitation.

    “We must enforce tougher restrictions, especially at the grassroots, as part of the measures to curb access and protect our most vulnerable citizens. We all know that prevention is cheaper and far more effective than rehabilitation. This is why we must continue to invest in education, youth development, and community empowerment to redirect energy away from street vices and substance abuse towards productive and promising futures.”

    READ ALSO; Russia offers to increase scholarships for Nigerian students 

    She called for collaborative efforts and synergy between government agencies in the fight against substance abuse in the country, adding that it will take such collaboration to break the vicious cycle of abuse in society, even as she commended the MTN Foundation Board.

    “This is not just a fight for one agency or one arm of government. It is everyone’s fight! Together, we must break the cycle and build a healthier, drug-free future. I sincerely commend the MTN Foundation Board, management, and staff for their commitment to this cause, and the Board and Management of MTN Nigeria for funding it.

    I also appreciate the collaborative support of the Lagos State Government, the NDLEA, UNODC, CSOs, media, religious leaders, traditional rulers, educators, parents, and youth advocates who continue to lend their voices to the fight against substance abuse.”

  • Inland Club Ado Ekiti honours ex-Ag. President

    Inland Club Ado Ekiti honours ex-Ag. President

    Friends and family of the late Chief Joseph Akintayo Oluwadare, yesterday thronged the Okesha, Ado Ekiti Inland Club for the lying-in-state, organised by the club in honour of its departed former President.

    Oluwadare, a politician, businessman, and public affairs analyst, was one of the leading political figures in Ekiti. He died at 63 on May 22.

    In a special tribute, the President of the club, Mr. Ayodele Adeitan, described the late former Chairman of Ekiti West Local Government as a man whose life was a testament to service, leadership, and community development.

    “Otunba Akin Oluwadare, a stalwart of our club, has left an indelible mark on our lives, and we come together to celebrate his legacy,” Adeitan said.

    He stated that the late politician, during his stint as Caretaker Chairman of the club, demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding the club through challenging times. Adeitan added that Oluwadare’s vision for the club’s growth and development inspired others, noting that his contributions have continued to resonate with them all.

    READ ALSO: Nurses, midwives give FG 15-day ultimatum, threaten nationwide strike

    The President presented a gift to the family and extended a warm invitation to any member of the family who might want to join the club.

     the younger brother of the late politician, Mr. Akin Oluwadare Jnr, who spoke on behalf of the family, said he was not surprised that the Inland Club stood by the family, given the club’s legendary profile of camaraderie and companionship.

    He said: “Though this is our low moment because we have just lost a darling brother, father, uncle and friend but with an event like this, we can be sure that Chief Akin Oluwadare Snr., the Saribi of Aramoko Ekiti, didn’t die in vain. Since May 2022, when he passed on, there have been a torrent of tributes from various quarters on how impactful his life was. To members of Inland Club, we appreciate you for today’s event, and we didn’t take it for granted

  • Grace Ogbemi dies at 89

    Grace Ogbemi dies at 89

    The Frank Ogbemi Family has announced the death of their matriarch, Mrs Grace Ogbemi. She died in Lagos on July 5, six days to her 90th birthday.

    Born in Warri on July 11, 1935, to Chief Reece Edukugho, an Itsekiri businessman and politician, Mrs Ogbemi was called to the English Bar in 1958, becoming the first female lawyer in the Midwest Region, now Edo and Delta states.

    READ ALSO; Russia offers to increase scholarships for Nigerian students 

    She was a partner in the law firm of Godfrey Amachree Ogbemi & Co. She was married to Franklin Ogbemi, a chartered engineer.

    Funeral arrangements will be announced later, the family added.

  • Sanwo-Olu inaugurates roads, market on Mainland

    Sanwo-Olu inaugurates roads, market on Mainland

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu yesterday commended Lagos Mainland Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Omolola Rashidat Essien, and her staff members for her projects.

    Sanwo-Olu, represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, urged the people to reciprocate the gesture by coming out en masse tomorrow to vote the All Progressives Congress’ (APC) candidates in the council elections.

    Sanwo-Olu, who spoke at the inauguration of five roads in the local government and the remodelled Iddo market now Senator Oluremi Tinubu Ultra-modern Market, also presented the party’s chairmanship candidate in the election, Mr Emilagba Jubril Kolawole, the council’s Vice Chairman, stressing that “the job of governance is a continuum.”

    Mrs. Essien said the occasion was “not just about ribbon-cutting” but “a moment of pride and shared accomplishment.”

    READ ALSO: Nurses, midwives give FG 15-day ultimatum, threaten nationwide strike

    She listed the new roads as Ondo Street (Ebute-Metta West), Glover Street (Ebute-Metta East), Osholake Street (Ebute-Metta East), Park Road (Ebute-Metta West) and Jebba Street (Ebute-Metta West).

    Of the new market, she said: “This market has long been a cornerstone of food commerce in Lagos Mainland. As with many legacy structures, the facility began to show signs of age and required a full-scale upgrade to meet modern standards of safety, hygiene, and efficiency.”

    The new market is a 10-block storey building housing 420 lock-up shops,181 open stalls, a seventy-car parking space, solar-powered lighting, clean toilets, secure waste systems and round-the-clock security.

    Essien expressed the council’s appreciation to the state government for its projects in the council, including the Oyingbo Link Bridge, the Oyingbo Train Station, the Oke-Odo Junior High school and the new senior secondary school in Otumara.

  • Lagos, China firm to partner on low-carbon demonstration

    Lagos, China firm to partner on low-carbon demonstration

    Lagos State government is set to adopt the China-Nigeria Low Carbon Demonstration initiative (Nextier) on the Lekki Low-Carbon Demonstration Zone (LLCDZ) project to reduce carbon emissions.

    Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokinbo Wahab, made this known during a meeting with the team from (Nextier) China-Nigeria Low-Carbon Demonstration Initiative at the Ministry’s office, in Alausa, Ikeja.

    The state government said it implemented several key initiatives to drive climate-positive growth in 2023 during the Lagos International Climate Change Summit when the government unveiled the Lagos Climate Adaptation Resilience Action Plan.

    In a statement, the ministry’s Director, Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, said the ministry, Nigeria and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment in China last year signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the African Solar Belt Initiative to support the country with low carbon industrialisation.

    READ ALSO; Russia offers to increase scholarships for Nigerian students 

    He quoted Wahab as adding that the zone was chosen as the pilot site for the project because it is the most advanced in the country.

    He said the project aims to reduce the climate risk index in the state, reduce airborne diseases and pollution, among others, adding that he appreciated the project.

    He stressed that the Global Energy Transition will create jobs and make the country competitive in the global market and ensure Environmental compliance.

    He expressed appreciation to the team and identified critical projects, stressing that the ministry is set to support the members.

    Director, National Council on Climate Change, the Presidency, Mr Micheal Ivenso, said the officials from China were visiting to perfect the Nigeria-China Corporation deal and how this would catalyse private sector participation.

    He said Lagos has an enabling environment for private sector participants (PSP) to thrive, adding that there are opportunities to explore in the state.

  • Abiodun seeks Brazilian investors for Olokola LNG, livestock, others

    Abiodun seeks Brazilian investors for Olokola LNG, livestock, others

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has urged investors from Brazil to partner the state to set up a fertiliser plant at the Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas project.

    The governor stated that Ogun is ready for investment opportunities in oil and gas, livestock, mining, agriculture, power plant development, renewable energy, tourism, technical and vocational training for youths, among others.

    Abiodun spoke at the state Investment Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on the sidelines of the BRIC Summit attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, five governors, ministers, and other government officials.

    The summit is in furtherance of the investment drive of the Dapo Abiodun-led administration for the rapid development of the Gateway State.

    Abiodun described Ogun as investor-friendly and one of the most developed states in Nigeria.

     He noted that Olokola has the deepest seaport in the country.

    READ ALSO: Nurses, midwives give FG 15-day ultimatum, threaten nationwide strike

    He said: “We have a region in our state that is the deepest sea point in Nigeria, called the Olokola region, where there is an Olokola gas project in the offing. This place has been identified as the right location to have a fertilizer plant.

    “So, we welcome partners from Brazil to set up a fertiliser plant with us in Ogun State.”

    Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, who also spoke at the event, described Ogun as one of the most industrialised states in Nigeria.

    “There’s a lot that already exists in terms of the backbone for industries, which is why Ogun is very industrialised. It is one of the most industrialised states in Nigeria,” Tuggar said.

    Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, noted that Nigeria is on the right track in terms of growth, inflation, and external positioning.

    Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso, said Nigeria’s financial system has been stabilised since the present administration came on board.

    He stated: “In Nigeria today, we have stability in our financial system. We have a very tight monitoring system that ensures that inflation is gradually beginning to trend downward. The significance is that the foundation for growth is being established.”

  • ALU Alumni celebrate 10 years with impactful outreach in Makoko

    ALU Alumni celebrate 10 years with impactful outreach in Makoko

    In celebration of African Leadership University’s (ALU) 10th anniversary, a group of dedicated alumni, led by Bright Emasuode, organized a transformative outreach program titled “Discovering the Leader Within: A Workshop for Young Learners.”

    The event took place on July 7, 2025, at Whanyinna Children’s School, nestled in the heart of Makoko, Lagos, a vibrant riverine community known for its resilience and spirit.

    The workshop was designed to spark leadership potential in young learners, emphasizing that true leadership begins with self-awareness, goal setting, and consistent action.

    ALU alumni facilitators introduced the children to the concept of SMART goals, guiding them to set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound objectives.

    Through interactive discussions, the children were encouraged to dream big, act with intention, and believe in their power to make a difference in their communities.

    Read Also: LASWA, Foundation celebrate World Oceans Day with Makoko community

    The outreach extended beyond leadership lessons. The alumni donated books to Whanyinna Children’s School, supporting its mission to provide quality education in a community where resources are often scarce. The day was filled with learning, laughter, and shared snacks, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated growth and togetherness.

    For many alumni, reaching Makoko was an adventure, navigating canoes for the first time to access the floating school. This journey became a powerful symbol of the lengths people go to serve others and the importance of connecting with communities in meaningful ways. The experience deepened the alumni’s appreciation for the resilience and beauty of life in Makoko.

    “Seeing the enthusiasm and determination in these young learners reminds us why we do what we do,” said Bright Kemasuode “Our hope is that every child here leaves believing in their own ability to lead and create positive change.”

    The day concluded with group photos, heartfelt reflections, and a renewed sense of purpose. The energy and curiosity of Makoko’s children served as a reminder that leadership is rooted in service and showing up where one is needed most.

  • Sanwo-Olu commissions five roads, ultramodern market in Lagos Mainland

    Sanwo-Olu commissions five roads, ultramodern market in Lagos Mainland

    Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Thursday commended Lagos Mainland Local Government chairman, Mrs. Omolola Rashidat Essien alongside her entire team and staff and the entire local government on her numerous projects delivery.

    Sanwo-Olu, represented by his deputy Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, also used the occasion to encourage the people to reciprocate the gesture by coming out en masse on Saturday to vote the All Progressives Congress’ candidates in the local government elections.

    Sanwo-Olu, speaking at the commissioning of five roads in the local government and the remodeled Iddo market now Senator Oluremi Tinubu Ultra-modern Market, also took a moment to present the party’s chairmanship candidate in the election, Mr Emilagba Jubril Kolawole, who is incumbent vice chairman, stressing that “the job of governance is a continuum.”

    Speaking, Mrs. Essien said the occasion was “not just about ribbon-cutting” but “a moment of pride and shared accomplishment.”

    Read Also: Remi Tinubu commissions health centre in Ikosi-Isheri as Sanwo-Olu praises Princess Bada

    She listed the five new roads as: Ondo Street (Ebute-Metta West), Glover Street (Ebute-Metta East), Osholake Street (Ebute-Metta East), Park Road (Ebute-Metta West) and Jebba Street (Ebute-Metta West).

    Of the new ultra-modern market, she said, “This market has long been a cornerstone of food commerce in Lagos Mainland. …As with many legacy structures, the facility began to show signs of age and required a full-scale upgrade to meet modern standards of safety, hygiene, and efficiency.”

    The new market is a 10-block storey building housing four hundred and twenty (420) lock-up shops, one hundred and eighty-one (181) open stalls, a seventy-car parking space, solar-powered lighting, clean toilets, secure waste systems and round-the-clock security.

    Essien expressed the council’s appreciation to the state government on its numerous projects delivered in the council, including the Oyingbo Link Bridge, the Oyingbo Train Station, the Oke-Odo Junior High school and the nearly completed Senior Secondary School in Otumara.

  • ADC: Coalition of Atiku, Obi can’t unseat Tinubu in 2027 – Support group 

    ADC: Coalition of Atiku, Obi can’t unseat Tinubu in 2027 – Support group 

    The Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT) in Ondo State has described the coalition of opposition figures under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as “shadow-chasers.”

    The support group said the coalition, led by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, which plans to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election, lacked the strength and credibility to challenge the incumbent. 

    According to the group in a statement released by its spokesperson in Akure, Ojo Oyewamide, the recent unveiling of the coalition in Ondo state led by Bode 

    Ayorinde is an “exercise in futility and a tall order” that would soon crumbled. 

    The GMT explained that the unveiling, which was full of the members of the opposition, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Prof. Ayorinde, stand no chances to challenge President Tinubu re-election. 

    “Unveiling them as members of the ADC in Ondo State, a faction of the PDP led by Bode Ayorinde, a former member of the House of Representatives, said the party would dislodge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from Aso Rock in 2027.

    “They are a group of shadow-chasers. It will be a tall order for them because most Nigerians can’t be fooled again.

    “The PDP has been losing elections in the state for some years now. Is it a faction of the party that will now perform wonders? Is it the faction led by Ayorinde that will now change their story of electoral failures? What is new about them?,” he queried. 

    According to the group, “It is expected that they will interrogate the intentions of the disgruntled politicians who are congregating in the ADC. Nigerians are expected to scrutinise their histories. Nigerians are expected to examine their policy alternatives. Will merely moving from PDP to ADC change who they are?

    “These are the people that providence has given several opportunities to govern the country at various levels. What did they do with power? What is the impact of the various positions they held in past on nation-building and national development? 

    Read Also: ADC: The stirrings of an abiku

    “President Tinubu is a visionary, courageous and focused leader. He has a vision of a greater Nigeria. He has identified the path to take in order to realise this vision. Though the path is painful, he has the courage and wisdom to lead our dear country through the path.”

    However, as part of the strategy to intensify support for President Tinubu relection in 2027 election, the group has also announced a fresh wave of appointments ahead of the official inauguration and opening of its state secretariat in Akure. 

    It announced: a former Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Olayato Aribo, as the Senatorial Coordinator for Ondo North; a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Lola Fagbemi as the Central Senatorial District Coordinator; a former Council Chairman, ex-House of Representatives member, and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, Hon. Albert Akintoye was named the Southern Senatorial District Coordinator. 

    Other appointed state officers include the former Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly and former Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Fatai Olotu, Bisi Ogungbemi, APC South West Youth leader, Pafff Lawal Kolade. 

    Also appointed are Olubunmi Ademosu, Yemi Olowolabi, Olatunji Ifabiyi, Morinola Olanipekun, Yetunde Adeyanju, Oluborode Olakunle and Olamide Falana. 

    The local government coordinators include: Awe Azeez, Gbenga Felemu, Alhaji Saliu Adeyemi, Yomi Falana, Alhaji Isiaka Elegberunibon, Gbenga Olaniyi, Victor Akinduro, Rotimi Adeleye, Tobi Ogunleye, Alhaji Khaleel Akinbani,Olamide Ifedayo,Oluborode Olakunle, Sola Adekugbe, Igbekele Akinrinwa, Tope Akoje, and Banji Ehuwa. 

  • Remi Tinubu commissions health centre in Ikosi-Isheri as Sanwo-Olu praises Princess Bada

    Remi Tinubu commissions health centre in Ikosi-Isheri as Sanwo-Olu praises Princess Bada

    The commissioning of the Senator Oluremi Tinubu Primary Healthcare Centre in Ikosi-Isheri, Lagos, turned into a major political moment as Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, represented the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the event—signaling strong federal support and recognition.

    The occasion also saw Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu publicly endorse the Executive Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada, describing her as “a true grassroots force delivering real impact.”

    “She is the Princess and Mayoress of our time. She deserves all the recognition,” Sanwo-Olu said. “This is my third visit to Ikosi-Isheri—some council chairmen have not invited me even once. That shows there’s something worth celebrating here.”

    Sanwo-Olu commended Bada for attracting high-level attention to the area, noting that her achievements had drawn the First Lady’s office to Lagos in a clear show of support.

    He emphasized that development was taking place not only at the federal and state levels but also at the local government level—evident in impactful projects like the new health centre.

    The governor used the opportunity to rally support for Bada and other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates ahead of the July 12 local government elections, saying: “It’s no coincidence that this Saturday, Princess Samiat and 56 others are being presented for the mandate they seek. Let us support them.”

    Read Also: Idemudo emerges national patron of Remi Tinubu support organisation

    Representing the First Lady, Nana Shettima praised Princess Bada for her leadership and commitment to public welfare.

    She highlighted the features of the newly commissioned health facility, including a 105-bed capacity, 25 specialized units, modern medical equipment, dedicated family health units, a theatre, and a functional emergency response system.

    “This project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, especially regarding the health and well-being of women and families,” she said. “I commend Princess Samiat Bada and the entire Ikosi-Isheri LCDA team for this achievement, and I thank you for naming this facility in my honour.”

    The event, graced by members of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC), top APC leaders, and senior government officials, further cemented Princess Bada’s rising political influence in Lagos State.