The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

MILID foundation partners UNESCO Nigeria, LASG for MIL workshop for S’West youths

The Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue Foundation (MILID Foundation), in partnership with UNESCO Nigeria and the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, held a workshop on media and information literacy for youth organisations in the Southwest.

The workshop brought together fourteen youth organisations from the southwest states in Lagos.

Themed: The Role of Media and Information Literacy for Youth in the Democratic Process, the workshop equipped participants with competencies to navigate the challenges of media and communication technology, to think critically, and engage responsibly in digital spaces.

It featured sessions on MIL and Democracy, MIL and Conflict, MIL and Gender-Based Violence, Infusing MIL into Content Creation, Fact-checking, and Verification.

Abigail Ogwezzy-Ndisika, a professor at the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, took participants on MIL and gender-based violence, while Prof Suraj Olunifesi of the same department took participants on MIL, Artificial Intelligence and Conflict.

In his keynote address, Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, who was represented by Obadare Adenekan, the state youth ambassador, remarked that the theme of the workshop speaks directly to the heartbeat of youth empowerment in our democratic journey.

“It recognises the power of informed young people and the urgent need to equip them with the tools to critically navigate the media space, distinguish truth from falsehood, and use information responsibly,” Mr Ogunlende said.

He urged participants to take the knowledge beyond the workshop. “Let it guide your posts, your projects, and your platforms. Use media to advocate, not agitate. Use your voice to build, not break. Above all, use information as a tool for truth, justice, and nation-building.”

With support from UNESCO Nigeria, MILID Foundation has held similar capacity-building workshops in the Northwest and Southeast of the country, with plans to reach all geopolitical zones of the country.

Speaking on the rationale for supporting such initiatives, the communication and information sector coordinator, UNESCO Nigeria, Yachat Nuhu, noted that “by integrating MIL into the policies and strategies of youth organisations, we are taking a proactive step toward fostering informed, responsible, and engaged young citizens.”

Ms Nuhu added that young people are among the most active participants in the digital space, where political discourse, election campaigns, and civic engagement increasingly take place. Hence, UNESCO’s interest in equipping them with the tools to safeguard freedom of expression, promote human rights, contribute to peaceful societies, and sustainable development.

According to MILID Foundation, the Southwest workshop is part of a broader initiative to strengthen media and information literacy across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

“We are taking this workshop to every zone of the country to build the capacity of young people, as well as organisations working with youth, around media and information literacy,” said Chiamaka Okafor, Executive Director MILID Foundation, adding that “our goal is to help them understand the importance of developing critical thinking, fact-checking skills, and the ability to responsibly create content.”

“We are pleased to be in Lagos for the Southwest edition of this workshop. With the local council elections just days away, we believe this is a timely and strategic intervention to prepare young people for informed and responsible civic participation,” she noted.

Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Adesegun Ogundeji, emphasised the importance of verifying information as it helps in decision-making and strengthening the democratic process.

He emphasised the state’s willingness to support initiatives that prioritise media and information literacy education.

Read Also: MILID Foundation, UNESCO to mark 2024 Global MIL Week in Kano

Rofiat Ileyemi, a participant from Lagos State, noted that attending the Media and Information Literacy (MIL) training was an eye-opening experience.

“I gained a deeper understanding of how powerful media and information can be in shaping opinions and how important it is to verify information before sharing. The sessions were practical and engaging, and teamwork was also an experience I can’t forget,” she said.

Another participant, Deborah Fayanju, from Ondo State, described her experience as enriching and broadening her understanding of Media and Information Literacy’s critical role in democracy, gender-based violence, content creation, and social advocacy.

Apart from representatives of youth organisations in the Southwest, the advocacy workshop had students from the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos.

July 9, 2025
Ondo doctors begin three-day warning strike

• Govt: we’ve started paying

Crisis is looming in the Ondo State health sector as medical doctors under the auspices of the National Association of Government General and Dental Practitioners (NAGGMDP) have declared a three-day warning strike.

The strike, which began yesterday, was in response to what the doctors alleged as the gross neglect of welfare of medical practitioners by the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa administration.

In a statement in Akure, the NAGGMDP’s state Chairman, Richard Obe and Secretary, Adekunle Owolabi, lamented the shortage of medical personnel in government hospitals, alleging that some had ‘one medical doctor’ per local government area.

The aggrieved doctors, in the statement, decried the alleged increase in taxation from April without prior consultation. They complained over an alleged non-payment of salaries and allowances to eight new doctors employed since last October. They emphasised that they could no longer work under difficult conditions, where their salaries and arrears were not paid.

“Other include unpaid hazard allowances for October to December 2023 and January 2024, outstanding promotion arrears from June to December 2024, and salary shortfalls and unpaid allowances for other members,’’ they added.

The doctors demanded action from the Aiyedatiwa-led government to avoid the total shutdown.

READ ALSO: Why ADC can never be like ANC

According to them, parts of their demand include the recruitment of more medical doctors across the 18 local governments of the state and full payment of outstanding salary, arrears, and statutory allowances.

“The reversal of the new tax regime, payment of outstanding salaries and allowances for newly employed officers and payment of owed hazard allowances and settlement of promotion arrears for eligible members,” they added.

The doctors, however, warned that failure to address these issues and demands during the warning strike would result in further consequences.

The NAGGMDP had earlier issued a 14-working day ultimatum to the governor to address the challenges in the sector but noted that it was ignored by the government.

Special Adviser to the governor on Health, Prof. Simidele Odimayo, said the government was addressing the challenges.

“We have started paying the arrears because the governor has given an instruction that the funds be paid and we are going to address their challenges.

“On the issue of shortage, the state government is employing medical doctors, and if they have people that they want us to employ, they should come forward with it.

“Don’t forget that we put up an advert and we employed the ones who applied. The government can’t manufacture doctors, but we are ready to employ them,” he said.

July 9, 2025
Oyo reaffirms commitment to complete ongoing projects

Oyo State government has reiterated its commitment to complete the ongoing infrastructure projects before the end of the administration in 2027.

The Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, gave the assurance during a visit to the projects under the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP).

The monitoring covers two major project sites: the 8.24 km Okudu-Oyada-FRSC Road in Atisbo and Saki West local government areas; and the 21.953 km Oloko-Oyo-Orita Aloba Road, in Iseyin Local Government Area.

Lawal emphasised that the Governor Seyi Makinde’s Omotuntun 2.0 Agenda is focused on delivering quality infrastructure that will enhance rural connectivity, boost agricultural productivity, and improve residents’ standard of living.

He said: “Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision is clear and deliberate; no project will be abandoned. Every ongoing road construction and rural development initiative will be completed and delivered to the people of Oyo State before the expiration of this administration in 2027.”

READ ALSO: 2027 and premature obituaries

The deputy governor, however, commended the progress recorded so far on the projects and assured that the government would continue to monitor and support contractors to ensure timely and quality delivery.

He reaffirmed that the Makinde administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and people-oriented governance, assuring residents that the benefits of investments will be felt across every zone.

Secretary of the Grievance Redress Committee for the Okudu-Oyada Road, Mr. Abdulraheem Mojid, noted that road construction had improved the livelihoods of residents in the Tede/Saki communities and surrounding areas.

The deputy governor was accompanied by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye; and the Project Coordinator, Mrs. Adeola Ekundayo; among others.

July 9, 2025
Olubadan: Ibadan begins 21-day mourning for Olakulehin

• Diri, Fayemi, Adams condole with Oyo govt, family

A 21-day mourning has been declared in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital to honour the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed on in the early hours of Monday after a prolonged illness at a private hospital in the city.

The mourning, which started yesterday, is in line with the age-old tradition of the ancient city.

Following the conclusion of the mourning, members of the Olubadan-in-Council are expected to begin the traditional process of selecting and installing a new Olubadan.

According to the succession hierarchy, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja, is next in line.

Commissioner of Police(CP), Oyo State Command, Johnson Adenola, has announced security measures to ensure a smooth transition for the late monarch.

In a statement, he listed the measures to include strategic deployment of the command’s intelligence and operational resources, particularly around the Olubadan’s palace.

Adenola further stated that the command had put in place enhanced visibility policing, convoy patrols, in collaboration with sister agencies, and rigorous surveillance.

READ ALSO: 2027 and premature obituaries

He said the moves had begun with intelligence-led stop-and-search initiatives throughout the metropolitan area and beyond.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has condoled with the government and people of Oyo on the passage of Oba Olakulehin.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the governor described the foremost monarch as a bridge builder, unifier and father.

He said the late paramount ruler cemented the bonds of unity between Oyo and Bayelsa.

Former Ekiti State governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, in a statement by the head of his Media Office, Ahmad Sajoh, said: “Oba Olakulehin’s reign, though brief, was impactful as he was a progressive royal father who believed in using tradition to support good governance, social development, and the unity of Nigerians.’’

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Chief Gani Adams, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mr Olawunmi Ojo, Adams said Nigeria had lost a peacemaker.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adams described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler, cultural custodian and statesman who dedicated his life to humanity and Yoruba heritage.

The Aare commiserated with the family of the late Olakulehin, Oyo State Government and people of Ibadanland over the loss.

According to him, though Oba Olakulehin’s reign was brief, it brought peace and notable progress across Ibadan for both indigenes and residents..

Adams recalled the warm reception given to Oodua Progressive Union (OPU) members during their World Congress’ visit in January.

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Olubadan at his private residence at Alalubosa GRA, Ibadan.

The delegation was led by CCII President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole

The CCII delegation was received by the late monarch’s younger brother, Dr. Osuolale Owolabi Olakulehin, and his eldest child, Prince Olasumbo Owolabi Olakulehin.

Chief Ajewole said: “Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin was a father to us all, a bridge-builder and a man of exemplary character. He was the first Olubadan to live in the newly built Olubadan Palace.

“His reign, though short, was marked by dignity and humility. Ibadan experienced peace and prosperity during his reign.

“We have come to commiserate with the family and to pray that God grants him eternal rest.”

Osuolale expressed appreciation for the visit and the show of solidarity.

July 9, 2025
Why high maternity deaths persist in Lagos, by experts

…’There is a need for constant enlightenment’

The high maternity deaths in Lagos may persist unless the barriers to professional care are removed, medical experts warned on Tuesday.

According to them, there is a need for strategic stakeholders’ involvement, effective communication and constant enlightenment.

The experts- Prof. Bosede Afolabi, Dr. Adeyemi Okunnowo, Dr. Adedoyin Ogunyemi, Dr. Brend Isikekpei, Dr. Laidi Abudu, and Prof. Aduragbemi Banke-Thomas – spoke at the ‘Knowledge Translation and Policy Engagement’ session in Lagos.

It was organised by the Lagos State Verbal and Social Autopsy Sample Registration System (LVASA-SRS) project, Agenda for Policy Engagement Meeting.’

The report of painstaking research on victims was given to participants, mainly health workers, policy initiators and the media.

The goal is to drive evidence-based actions to end preventable maternal and perinatal deaths in the state.

There was a panel discussion on ‘The future of

Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) implementation in Lagos State, moderated by Banke-Thomas.

The panellists are Dr. Ibrahim Mustapha, a permanent secretary, Lawal Musibau, Chairman of Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Prof. Adetokunbo Fabamwo; Dr. Donald Imosemi, Dr. Kay Adesola, Dr. Folasade Oludara, Mr. Beloved Ekwebelem; and Mr. Lawal Friday, a relative of a woman who passed on due to maternal issues.

Prof. Ireti Akinola spoke on ‘Legal framework supporting MPDSR implementation in Lagos State.’

Goodwill messages came from the partners- Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Rodio Diallo, Deputy Director of Bill Gates Foundation, Gaye Agesa of APHRC and Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Health Board.

Curiously, in the study focusing on urban, suburban and urban local governments, 745 per maternal deaths per 100,000 births were recorded.

Project Coordinator, Prof. Afolabi, said: “We need to understand the value of women and end discrimination. If we value them, we will ensure that they do not die during pregnancy.”

She also said, “We need to ensure that childbirth is totally and truly free so that more women can attend hospitals and seek help from professional caregivers.”

Read Also: Rethinking maternity care: Amina Yamgnane holds special conference in Lagos

Afolabi urged women to understand that the belief that the firstborn should be delivered at home is not true.

She said delivery should always be handled by skilled professionals, adding that health care centres should be more accessible and affordable.

Afolabi stressed the importance of family planning, warning against unwanted pregnancies, particularly among teenagers.

She noted that families inadvertently hurt society by encouraging the Jappa syndrome, adding that the best brains in the medical profession should be retained

Afolabi added, “Government should employ more doctors and nurses, remunerate them and retain them with the best of incentives.”

She praised Lagos State for its commitment to the health sector, urging the state government to do more.

Okunnowo, who reflected on the causes of maternal deaths, attributed the incidence to hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, abortion related issues, haemorrhage, and ruptured uterus.

Ogunyemi, who spoke on the barriers to care, lamented that findings from the social autopsy revealed a very awful picture of tragedies arising from personal, community and public-related factors.

She said the decision to delay help by pregnant women was due to the lack of appreciation of danger signs and their inability to perceive the severity of illness.

He also alluded to socio-cultural beliefs and norms, including traditional or faith-based care.

The medical practitioner frowned at reliance on herbs and the attribution of maternal deaths to the will of God, and the community and health official accountability deficit.

Other factors are the non-availability of transportation, difficulty in arranging for public transportation, which can cause death in an emergency, and bad roads, which make homes of the patients inaccessible or completely detached.

Ogunyemi said, “Financial constraints could lead to inability to purchase blood, referral delay, which is also linked to transportation problems and flat bills at the onset could lead to on-the-spot decline by patients.”

She said health workers’ poor attitude to patients may discourage them from seeking the appropriate care from hospitals and primary health care centres.

July 8, 2025
FG donates 3,500 life jackets to Ogun to boost waterways safety

As part of efforts to enhance safety on Nigeria’s inland waterways, the federal government has donated 3,500 life jackets to the Ogun State Government for use by waterways operators across the state.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, made the donation on behalf of the federal government on Monday, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to ending preventable deaths on waterways. He was represented at the event by the Director of Maritime Services in the Ministry, Dr. Mercy Ilori.

Oyetola said the initiative is part of a national strategy to instil a culture of safety and reduce boat mishaps nationwide. “This is one of the most comprehensive federal responses to the persistent loss of lives on Nigeria’s waterways,” he said.

The Minister noted that similar distributions had taken place in Niger, Bayelsa, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Taraba, and Lagos States. “We are now in Ogun State to sustain the momentum and demonstrate the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and livelihoods,” he added.

He described the rising frequency of boat accidents as a national concern and said the Ministry has aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to tackle the menace.

The strategy, he said, rests on three key pillars: strict enforcement of the Inland Waterways Transportation Regulations 2023; continuous public education and sensitisation; and the provision of critical safety equipment such as life jackets.

He acknowledged the vital role of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) in implementing this strategy, particularly in regulating and monitoring water transport activities.

Receiving the items, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Gbenga Dairo, assured that the life jackets would be fairly distributed to registered waterways operators across the state.

Read Also: NIWA governing board vows to curb security threat on waterways

Dairo emphasised that safety on waterways is not a privilege but a fundamental right of every resident, and pledged the state’s continued support for enhancing water transport as a viable and secure alternative to road travel.

“Safety on the waterways is not a privilege, it is a right. Every life jacket handed over today represents a life potentially saved, a family preserved, and a future secured. This initiative aligns with the human capital development pillar of our administration’s ISEYA agenda, ensuring that people remain at the heart of our progress

“Ogun State values the synergy we have fostered with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and applauds their dedication to the development of marine infrastructure, safety standards, and the blue economy as a whole. Ogun State stands ready and willing to provide all the necessary support to sustain this momentum, not only in marine safety but also in enhancing inland waterways as viable and secure alternatives to road transport.”

“To our waterway users, boat operators, fishermen, and residents of our riverine communities: these life jackets are for you. But more importantly, the knowledge and awareness you will gain from this sensitisation effort will serve as your daily companion, protecting you and helping you protect others.

“Ogun State hereby assures the Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy and NIWA that these life jackets will be equitably distributed to verified and recognised operators across the state’s waterways, from Iwopin to Ebute-Ero, from Agbara to Tongeji, Imakun Omi to Ode-Omi, and other active riverine corridors. A strict monitoring and maintenance protocol will be enforced to ensure sustainability and accountability.”

The state governor, however, warned that State actors would not allow preventable tragedies to define the nation’s way of war.

“As we continue to embrace innovation and development in transportation, we must also embrace accountability and responsibility. Let us not allow preventable tragedies to define our way of life, let us instead champion the principles of safety, respect for life, and collective vigilance.”

However, the Managing Director of NIWA, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, warned that the issue of safety on the inland waterways cannot be overemphasised, as he recounted several tragic incidents that claimed lives in hundreds.

“The issue of safety can never be over-emphasised. On June 12, 2023, a wooden boat carrying wedding guests returning from a marriage ceremony from Niger State capsized in Jeva Channel Lake, in River Niger in Kwara State, owing to overloading and a submerged tree.

“The boat was reported to be carrying over 200 guests despite having the capacity of carrying just less than 100 passengers. More than 200 lives were lost, among which a father and four of his children were involved. So you can imagine the kind of tragedy that befell the family.

“Again, in October 1, 2024, a wooden boat carrying mostly women and children traveling for religious festive occasions capsized in Niger State. The boat was reported to be carrying over 300 passengers, even though it has the capacity of carrying less than 100 passengers. More than 100 lives were lost.”

The NIWA Managing Director, who was represented by Engr. Elsie Egwuatu observed that in the respective cases, the boats were heavily overloaded, sailed at night without the proper navigational aids and conveyed passengers without life jackets.

“So if you think safety is expensive, try disaster. Over 90 percent of accidents that happen on our waterways are caused by human error. In most cases, it is caused by the captain’s negligence. The newly gazetted Marine and Transport Regulations Codes, which spell out offences and punishments, ranging from a fine to imprisonment, mandate the compulsory use of life jackets for all waterways users sailing on our waterways,” she added.

Also speaking, the National President of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Alhaji Tarzan Balogun, called for intensified regulatory efforts to prioritise safety and infrastructural development on Nigerian waterways.

Alhaji Balogun commended the government for its efforts in promoting safety across the country’s inland waterways, even as he assured that the life jackets would be used judiciously.

“There must be a firm policy: no life jacket, no entry. I’ve witnessed several cases where passengers refuse to wear them. That should not be allowed. Safety must come first,” he said.

Balogun also praised the federal government, particularly President Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, for their commitment to maritime safety and for recognising the importance of life-saving gear in water transport.

“If you’re drunk or perceived to be a threat to others onboard, operators must have the authority to refuse you entry. There is also the problem of bringing animals onboard, especially dogs, who can scare passengers onboard and make boats capsize,” he stated.

Balogun also called on the Ogun State Government to emulate Lagos by setting up a dedicated waterways authority and constructing jetties in collaboration with local boat operators.

July 8, 2025
Rotary club raises N80m to equip fire service in Ikoyi

The Rotary Club of Ikoyi, District 9112, has raised over N80 million to support firefighting efforts in Ikoyi, Lagos State, alongside healthcare and other humanitarian projects.

The funds were raised at the installation ceremony of the club’s 41st President, President, and Clare Omatseye, and the induction of the 2025–2026 board members, held at the MUSON Centre, Lagos.

Omatseye currently serves as the managing director of JNC International Ltd. She has been a dedicated Rotarian for over 22 years and a Paul Harris Fellow, with numerous positions within Rotary, including International Service Director, Committee Chair, Rotary Foundation Chair, Vice President, and President-Elect.

The fundraising ceremony, chaired by Chairman Spencer Onosode, attracted leading figures including former Group Chairman, Seplat Petroleum, Dr ABC Orjiako; former Minister of State for Petroleum, Odein Ajumogobia; Professor Fabian Ajogwu, SAN; and Managing Director, Access Bank, Roosevelt Ogbonna, who pledged their support as celebrity firefighters for the project.

Newly installed District Governor, Rotary International District 9112, Lanre Adedoyin, congratulated the club on the installation of its President and Board, assuring them of his full support to ensure the project’s success.

Read Also: Rotary DG unveils ₦150m plan to tackle child health, community empowerment

A key highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of President Omatseye’s pet project, which seeks to equip the Ikoyi Fire Service with a functional borehole, personal protective equipment, and other essential firefighting gear, costing several millions of Naira.

Onosode explained that Omatseye’s professionalism, commitment, and passion for human capital development, as demonstrated in her action plan for the 2025/2026 Rotary Year, provide an excellent platform for donors to partner with the club in its humanitarian interventions.

In his valedictory address, the immediate Past President, Emmanuel Efuntayo, outlined the club’s achievements during his tenure, citing the provision of a N9.2 million solar-powered device to the Motherless Babies Home in Lekki, a gesture that earned commendation from the Lagos State Government.

Delivering the keynote address on ‘Building Sustainable Communities through Collaborative Action,’ Prof. Ajogwu emphasised that sustainable communities thrive across generations by addressing multiple human needs simultaneously, empowering diverse voices in decision-making, and ensuring shared prosperity.

He noted that such communities integrate environmental stewardship, economic inclusion, and social equity into comprehensive, long-term plans, adding that: “they must meet today’s needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs.”

Guests also commended the club for its longstanding commitment to humanitarian causes and pledged their continued support.

The occasion also featured the induction of honorary members into the Rotary Club of Ikoyi, including Chairman Onosode, Professor Ajogwu, and Mr Ajumogobia.

July 8, 2025
Mogaji Junaid mourns late Olubadan

The Mogaji Jinadu Ileganga, Itutaba in Ibadan North East Local Government, Chief Olufemi Junaid has condoled with Governor Seyi Makinde, the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, High Chief Rashidi Ladoja, the Otun Balogun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Ibadan Mogajis and people of Oyo State over the demise of the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin.

He described the late Olubadan as a unifying figure in Ibadanland, highlighting his pivotal role in fostering friendship and inclusivity within the community.

Junaid emphasised the late monarch’s remarkable humility and genuine warmth towards all individuals, regardless of their background or beliefs.

He noted that Oba Olakulehin’s passing has left a profound void in the hearts of many, with his legacy expected to endure through the institutions he supported and the people he touched.

He urged Ibadan people to take comfort in the memories of the deceased’s life and reign, adding that the late Olubadan’s life was a testament to his dedication to public service and community leadership.

Chief Junaid prayed for the repose of the late Olubadan’s soul and comfort for the royal family and the entire Ibadan community during this period of mourning.

He said: “Oba Olakulehin’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The Ibadan community will remember him for his wisdom, leadership, and commitment to the well-being of his people.

Read Also: Tinubu mourns Olubadan Olakulehin

“The people of Ibadanland will miss their beloved monarch dearly, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched during his reign.

Chief Junaid’s commiseration message is a poignant reminder of the late Olubadan’s enduring impact on the community.

The late Olubadan’s demise has sent shockwaves throughout the Ibadan community, with many paying tribute to his legacy and contributions to the development of the state.

Notably, Oba Olakulehin celebrated his 90th birthday on July 5, 2025, just two days before his passing, marking a long and eventful life.

July 8, 2025
Lagos ranked world’s fastest-growing emerging tech hub

Lagos has been ranked as the world’s fastest-growing emerging technology ecosystem in the year, according to a report by data analytics firm, Statisense.

The report published on X yesterday placed Istanbul in second position, followed by Pune, Belo Horizonte, Mumbai, and Curitiba. Riyadh, Johannesburg, Chennai, and Ho Chi Minh City completed the top 10.

Statisense is a leading artificial intelligence data analytics firm known for its yearly ecosystem intelligence reports across emerging markets.

The report stated that the rankings were based on enterprise value, unicorn count, funding growth, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, and cost of living.

Read Also: Lagos ranked world’s fastest-growing emerging tech hub

Other cities on the list included Kyiv, Mexico City, Vilnius, Jakarta, Bengaluru, Zagreb, Dhaka, Bangkok, Santiago de Chile, and Kampala.

Earlier yesterday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said the State government created an enabling environment for technology innovation to thrive through deliberate policies and investments.

He explained that the environment spurred Lagos-based startups to raise over $1.2 billion in 2023, representing 75 per cent of all startup investments in Nigeria.

Sanwo-Olu made this known during the Art of Technology Lagos 6.0 event in Lagos, with the theme “Artificial Intelligence And The Lagos Digital Economy”.

July 8, 2025
Royal families defend Oluwo
- Give a 48-hour ultimatum to youth group
The royal families yesterday defended the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, against allegations of exhuming remains of past kings when he assumed the throne.

The Nation recalled that a youth group who claimed they were from royal families led by one Adedoja Osunwo alleged that Oluwo supervised the exhumation and threw away their bones.

However, the princes and compound heads of Iwo, addressing reporters at the Oluwo’s palace, described the Osunwo-led youth group as disgruntled elements who are parading themselves as representatives of the royal family.

Read Also: On Alaafin and Oluwo’s current camaraderie

Speaking on behalf of the princes and compound heads, Prince Wasiu Modunle: said: “We are not unaware of a few youths parading themselves as spokespeople for Iwo princes. We state unequivocally that they have no right or recognition to do so.Their allegations against our king are frivolous and a deliberate attempt to blackmail Oba Akanbi.’’

On the controversial claim that the remains of past Oluwos were relocated or tampered with, he explained that upon his ascension, Oba Akanbi invited royal family members to help identify the neglected graveyards of past kings.
July 8, 2025