The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • You are a pride of Ogbomoso, Methodist Bishop hails Oyo LGSC chairman

    You are a pride of Ogbomoso, Methodist Bishop hails Oyo LGSC chairman

    The Bishop of Methodist Diocese, Ogbomoso, Rt. Rev. Ademola Moradeyo, has described the Chairman, Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, otherwise known as ‘Wolekanle’, as a pride of Ogbomosoland.

    The cleric urged him to live up to the high expectations that come with his new public responsibility.

    Speaking in Ogbomoso at a special thanksgiving service to mark Wolekanle’s 53rd birthday, dedication of his new house and his recent appointment as Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission, Moradeyo charged Wolekanle to continue to improve himself so as not to disappoint those who trust him.

    In his sermon titled: “Thy Kingdom come,” drawn from Matthew 6:9–16, the Bishop urged political office holders to align their vision with God’s will, adding that the Kingdom of God is peaceful and harmonious values that are lacking in many parts of the world today.

    He said: “It is important for those in power to tread the path of peace and ensure their actions are guided by God’s vision. Any leader who does not make the people happy will face the wrath of God.”

    Commending Wolekanle on his new role, Bishop Moradeyo said he believed the appointment would lead to greater accomplishments. 

    He also expressed concern that some leaders have failed to fulfill their responsibilities.

    The cleric also praised Governor Seyi Makinde for his exceptional leadership, noting that his administration has brought prosperity to the state through impactful and unprecedented policies.

    Read Also: Ibadan, Ogbomoso traditional leaders reject move to make Alaafin permanent chair of Oyo council of Obas

    In his response, Bashorun Akinwole expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for finding him worthy of the appointment, pledging to uphold the governor’s vision for the state and ensure effective service delivery.

    Dignitaries at the event include Oyo Majority Leader Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin; Oyo chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Service Commission, and serving and former council chairmen.

    Other are traditional rulers, political leaders from the PDP and other parties; Alhaji Akibu Titilayo Efele, Ogun State Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN); members of academia, and many others.

    Wolekanle, surrounded by political associates, friends, and well-wishers, led the congregation in giving thanks and raised N25 million in support of the church’s bus project.

  • Lions club holds ‘New Voices Walk’ to champion inclusion, unity in Lagos

    Lions club holds ‘New Voices Walk’ to champion inclusion, unity in Lagos

    Lagos witnessed a vibrant display of advocacy and unity last Saturday when members of Lions Club International, District 404A3, held their annual New Voices Walk with the theme: “Voices in Motion: Walking for Inclusion, impact and innovation.”

    The symbolic walk covered a distance of over two kilometres from Oregun to the Jakande Johnson Tinubu (JJT) Park in Alausa, Ikeja.

    The event attracted Lions Club leaders, members, dignitaries and supporters from across the district to promote diversity, inclusion, and positive societal transformation through community service and advocacy.

    Speaking at the event, Lion Omotomike Titilayo Ibikunle, District chairperson of the New Voices Initiative, described the walk as an essential awareness campaign aimed at amplifying underrepresented voices in society—especially women and young people.

    “This walk is not just symbolic; it’s a call for inclusive leadership, diversity in service, and innovation in our communities,” she said.

    “It is an annual gathering of like-minded individuals committed to building peace, promoting unity, and celebrating the unique contributions of women and youth to leadership and social change.”

    Also addressing participants, Mary Onu, incoming President of Lions Club International District 404, emphasized that the New Voices platform was established to spotlight the historically underrepresented, particularly women.

    Read Also: Over 6,000 Osun residents benefit from Lions Clubs’ free eye care initiative

    “For many years, women were in the minority in the Lions Club, but the New Voices initiative has provided a platform for those voices to be heard and celebrated,” Onu explained.

    “Today, you can see the impact—more women are participating, and young people are joining the movement, recognizing that Lionism is not limited by age or gender.”

    She described Lionism as a community where service is driven by compassion, commitment, and collective impact, noting, “It’s not about how much you have, but your willingness to give what you can to uplift others. In this space, you also build strong networks and find people with shared values.”

    Lion Ano Anyanwu, Multiple Council Chairperson of Lions Club District 404, highlighted the broader mission of the New Voices initiative, stating that it continually raises awareness on critical social issues affecting vulnerable groups.

    “Every year, we organise service programs and activities like today’s walk to draw attention to the needs of the marginalized—including women, children, and the elderly,” Anyanwu said.

    “This year’s walk is another example of our commitment to giving voice to the voiceless and promoting peace through action.”

    The event featured placard-carrying participants, musical performances, and community engagement sessions aimed at raising awareness on the importance of social inclusion, youth participation, and compassionate service.

    With an increasing number of women and young people taking active roles in the club’s leadership and activities, the New Voices Walk continues to serve as a beacon for inclusive progress, positioning Lions Club International as a force for unity and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.

  • Ooni, Olofa, other dignitaries to grace first African fashion fusion show in Offa

    Ooni, Olofa, other dignitaries to grace first African fashion fusion show in Offa

    A wave of elegance, tradition, and high fashion is set to sweep through Offa, Kwara State, as the town prepares to host the maiden edition of the African Fashion Fusion Show from June 14–15, 2025.

    The groundbreaking event will take place at the Imperial Event Center, opposite Summit University, and is expected to draw a blend of royalty, dignitaries, and cultural icons in a grand celebration of African creativity.

    Organizers describe the show as more than just a fashion event, it’s a vibrant showcase of culture, arts, crafts, and identity. “This is not just another runway show,” said Raji, a lead organizer. “It’s a celebration of identity, creativity, and African excellence across diverse art forms. We aim to promote cultural preservation while empowering fashion entrepreneurs.”

    He added that the event offers a valuable platform for creatives to gain visibility, network with industry leaders, and showcase the richness of African aesthetics.

    Top on the guest list is the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, globally renowned for his efforts in promoting Yoruba culture and African heritage. 

    Read Also: 10,000 admission seekers subscribe to Offa Poly

    Joining him will be the Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Muhammad Gbadamosi Esuwoye II, Ajagungbade I, a prominent figure in youth empowerment and cultural advancement in Kwara State.

    Also lending royal prestige is the Onigboko of Igbokoland, Awori Kingdom, HRM Oba Itu Olasunkanmi Yusuf, Ilemobade II, who will be coming from Ogun State in support of the fusion of traditional art with contemporary design.

    Adding further cultural weight is HRM Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, celebrated for her promotion of Adire and African fabrics. 

    A respected cultural ambassador and fashion icon, her presence underlines the show’s mission of heritage preservation.

    From the political sphere, the First Lady of Kwara State, H.E. Amb. Prof. Mrs. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, founder of the Ajike People Centre, will grace the event. She will be joined by H.E. Omolewa Yetunde Ahmed, former Kwara First Lady and a staunch advocate for women and youth development.

    The two-day spectacle will feature exhibitions, runway showcases, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for designers, stylists, artists, and cultural entrepreneurs.

    Backed by royal endorsements and a high-profile guest list, the African Fashion Fusion Show is set to position Offa as a new cultural and fashion hub in Nigeria.

  • APC candidate seeks unity ahead of Lagos council poll

    APC candidate seeks unity ahead of Lagos council poll

    The chairmanship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Hon.Bayo Adefuye in the Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Lagos State has said the unity of the party is the paramount agenda on his mind.

    Adefuye, who emerged the party flag bearer for the forth coming council election, thanked party stalwarts and other members for electing in the shadow polls.

    He promised to run an inclusive administration when elected as  the council chairman, stressing that all hands must be on the deck for the victory of APC in the coming council elections, noting that the party would triumph with a united force.

    He said: “All thanks and glory to Almighty God for this significant milestone of the official confirmation of my candidacy under our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).  

    Read Also: APC woman leader pushes for stronger inclusion of women in governance

    “To my distinguished leaders, co-contestants, comrades, and the wonderful residents of Yaba LCDA,  it is with great humility and a deep sense of purpose that I present myself to serve. I stand before you today with a heart committed to progress and a vision to make history once again in Yaba LCDA as we approach the forthcoming local government elections.  

    He said the LCDA which comprises nine vibrant wards: Adekunle, Makoko, Onike, Abule-Oja, Alagomeji, Oko-Agbon, Iwaya, Sabo-Igbobi Sabe, and Abule Ijesha was a great political and social strata.

     “I call upon every resident of these wards to come out en masse and support the APC, our party of progress and purpose.  

    “Together, we will take the cardinal agenda of our great party to the grassroots, ensuring tangible and transformative impact across our communities, he added.

  • Ajah community leaders demand general hospital, upgrade of Baale to Oba

    Ajah community leaders demand general hospital, upgrade of Baale to Oba

    Traditional ruler and community leaders in Ajah, Lagos State, have called on the state government to establish a General Hospital in the area and upgrade the status of the Baale to a full-fledged Oba to foster greater development.

    Chief Ismael Adewale, the Baale of Ajah, made the appeal on Saturday during his 47th birthday celebration. 

    He urged the government to prioritise the construction of a General Hospital to improve access to quality healthcare for residents.

    Adewale emphasised that the presence of a well-equipped hospital would significantly enhance timely medical services in the fast-growing community.

    “We need hospitals, that’s the most important thing. And more infrastructure. If you look at the underbridge in Ajah, it’s very messy.

    “We are even trying our best to get it clean and to make sure that everything is going the way we want it.

    “And we also want security. We are doing what we are meant to do.

     we need more security personnel from the government. 

    “And the community is really trying, we are doing our best to ensure the area is conducive for living,” the Baale said.

    Biliaminu Akanbi, APC chairmanship candidate for Eti-Osa Local Government, in his remarks, said there have been tremendous developments since the installation of the Baale in Ajah community.

    “There has been a lot of progress in Ajah since the installation of the Baale, in an environment where your people really love you, you can see the number of people who have been coming to celebrate with our Baale.

    “He doesn’t oppress any people, he believes everybody is somebody.

    A lot of good development has been coming into the Ajah environment since they installed him as the Baale. 

    “And by the special grace of God, we are appealing to the government to install him as Oba in due time. 

    “So that more progress will come into the Ajah axis. And I also appreciate the people of Ajah who have been rallying around him almost every time. Look at him, it’s just a birthday. Look at the celebration. Look at the joy. He is a man who has a vision, mission, and passion for his people,” he said.

    Kazeem Odunlami, Secretary General of the Ajah Community, commended the Baale, Chief Ismael Adewale, for his significant role in the development of the area.

    Read Also: Ajah community seeks Sanwo-Olu’s intervention over alleged imposition of traditional ruler 

    Speaking during the Baale’s 47th birthday celebration, Odunlami expressed admiration at the large turnout of residents who came together to celebrate and support the event.

    He noted that the Baale has been instrumental in funding free medical outreach programmes, further demonstrating his commitment to the well-being of the community.

    “Our traditional ruler has done well for the residents by ensuring periodical free health services to the people of Ajah.

    “That’s why we want the government to give us general hospitals that will cater for the growing population in the community,” he said.

    The community leader also appealed to the state government to upgrade his position as Baale of Ajah to Oba.

    Musa Muhammad, a member of Arewa community in Ajah, said that the Baale was a welcoming leader and passionate about community development.

    Muhammad added that the traditional leader was honest in driving the affairs of the community.

    “Whatever he asks us to do to help him in terms of support, we are beside him. We are behind him,” he said.

  • JCI Ibadan Elite trains nurses, matrons on prenatal reading, maternal communication

    JCI Ibadan Elite trains nurses, matrons on prenatal reading, maternal communication

    The Junior Chamber International (JCI) lbadan Elite, in collaboration with the Bookworms Empowerment Foundation (BEF), has held a four-day intensive workshop focused on integrating prenatal reading into maternal healthcare practices for nurses and matrons.

    The nurses and matrons were trained on the science, techniques, and benefits of prenatal reading and maternal communication.

    The pioneering programme, conducted under the National Reading Culture Redemption Initiative (NRCRI), aimed to equiped frontline healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to educate expectant mothers on how intentional verbal interaction can nurture cognitive and emotional growth in babies, even before birth. 

    Participants delved into the power of tone, rhythm, and vocal engagement in enhancing fetal devel opment, fostering bonding and laying the foundation for future literacy.

    Distinquished facilitators, including Prof. Oshiotse Andrew Okwilagwe, Prof. Mrs. Ididi Ofolie, and Princess Mrs. Adebimpe Precilia Kehinde, led the sessions, providing invaluable expertise and ins piring professional growth among the attendees.

    The President of JCI Ibadan Elite, Amb. Ilerioluwa Johnson Babatunde emphasised the transformative nature of the initiative.

    He said: “The project is a catalyst for change, we are not just teaching reading, we are nurturing the minds of the next generation from the very womb. 

    “Our commitment is to build a brighter future for our children, and this start with empowering mothers and healthcare providers with the knowledge to foster early development.

     JCI Sen. Sanmi Abidoun said: “This prenatal reading workshop is a crucial investment in our future. By focusing on early cognitive development, we are laying a foundation for stronger families, communities, and a more prosperous society. JCI Nigeria fully supports such initiatives that prioritize the wellbeing of our children from their earliest stages.

    “Despite facing chall enges such as venue constraints and funding limitations, the workshop was met with remarkable enthusiasm and enga gement. Participants received certi ficates of compl etion and are now poised to become advocates for prenatal literacy within their health centres.”

  • Flooding: Ondo deploys excavators to clear waterways

    Flooding: Ondo deploys excavators to clear waterways

    Ondo State Government has deployed  two excavators  to clear waterways and prevent flooding in Akure, the state capital.

    The intervention, according to the Chairman of Akure South Local Government Area, Gbenga Fasua, was to address flooding in Akure and surrounding communities especially Ajipowo area.

    Fasua said the exercise was a proactive measure to ensure flood-prone areas remained safe during the rains.

    The council boss cautioned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse on waterways, so as not to obstruct water flow.

    READ ALSO: Unlike Amotekun, ESN is illegal, witness tells court

    He said, “We will take drastic action to address indiscriminate dumping of refuse in waterways. It is a bad habit that must be seriously tackled and dealt with.”

    Consultant to the state government on clearing of waterways, Elisah  Ebijimi, promised to complete the task on time.

    “The state government has ordered us to finish the job on time and we are committed to this,” he added.

  • Group hails APC’s endorsement of Tinubu for second term

    Group hails APC’s endorsement of Tinubu for second term

    A group, the  Asiwaju Political Movement (APM) has hailed the unanimous endorsement of President Bola Tinubu by the entirety of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders for a second term in office.

    In a statement by the Director General of the movement, Madiba M Ledum, it described the endorsement as a “bold confirmation of President Tinubu’s visionary leadership, transformative governance, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Nigeria.

    “This resounding show of support by the APC leadership is not just an endorsement—it is a testament to the renewed confidence in President Tinubu’s capacity to lead Nigeria into a more prosperous future,” the statement said.

    He added that “under his stewardship, we have seen critical reforms, infrastructure revival, and bold economic decisions that will shape our nation for generations.”

    READ ALSO: 11 things Nigerians should note when applying for a five-year Schengen visa

    He applauded the unity demonstrated by APC leaders across the country, saying it signaled strength and cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    “As the Director-General of the Asiwaju Political Movement, I align fully with this historic endorsement. We will continue to mobilize nationwide support and communicate the achievements and vision of President Tinubu to every corner of the country,” he added.

     Ledum urged Nigerians to rally behind the president as he prepares for a second term, stressing the importance of continuity in leadership.

  • Two injured as training aircraft crash-lands at Ilorin airport

    Two injured as training aircraft crash-lands at Ilorin airport

    …NSIB begins probe

    The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has revealed that two occupants of a Diamond training aircraft operated by the Aviation Training School, Ilorin sustained injury following the crash-landing of the aircraft.

    The NSIB stated that it has commenced an investigation into the crash-landing of the aircraft.

    According to a statement yesterday by the Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance of the Bureau, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, the incident occurred at 17:28 local time on May 23, 2025, during a simulated instrument approach on Runway 05 at Ilorin International Airport.

    She stated that the aircraft veered off the runway and came to a stop on the grass verge.

    READ ALSO: Unlike Amotekun, ESN is illegal, witness tells court

    According to the statement: “Two occupants were on board. Both sustained serious injuries and were swiftly evacuated to a medical facility, coordinated by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).”

    She added that the NSIB Go-Team is currently preparing to depart from Abuja to Ilorin to conduct on-site investigations.

    “The team will secure the site, collect physical evidence, interview witnesses, and retrieve operational data to establish the cause and contributing factors of the incident”.

    Commenting on the incident, the Director General of the NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh Jr., said: “Our thoughts are with the injured, and we commend the swift medical and emergency response. Now, our focus is on understanding exactly what went wrong. Every investigation is an opportunity to improve safety. We are deploying our team to Ilorin to ensure that no detail is overlooked.”

    The Bureau urged the public and media to avoid speculation and to await verified updates.

    The NSIB assured that it remains committed to ensuring a thorough, independent, and professional investigation that supports ongoing efforts to enhance aviation safety in Nigeria.

    It also promised to provide further details as the investigation progresses.

  • FIRS launches radio campaign to simplify taxation

    FIRS launches radio campaign to simplify taxation

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has unveiled a grassroots radio sensitisation programme aimed at simplifying tax education and boosting compliance among Nigerians across all walks of life, from market traders to tech entrepreneurs.

    At the launch event held in Abuja on Friday, May 23, top FIRS officials stressed that taxation is not just a civic obligation but a vital contributor to everyday public services.

    Dr Abdullahi Ismaila, Director of the Communication and Liaison Department, emphasised the need to break down complex tax processes for informal and underserved sectors. 

    “The average market woman needs to understand what Tax Pro Max is. She needs to know how to get a Tax Clearance Certificate and understand e-invoicing,” he said, highlighting the technical issues the agency plans to simplify using radio broadcasts in local languages and Pidgin.

    “We’re counting on radio service providers to help raise the level of awareness,” he said, adding that feedback from listeners will shape future content.

    On her part, Dr Loveth Ononuga, Director of Taxpayers’ Service Department, responded to scepticism about whether taxes are truly serving the people. 

    READ ALSO: FG, UNESCO partner to tackle AI misuse, deepfakes on social media — Minister 

    “You drove on a road to get here. Did the road just make itself? It’s taxpayer money,” she said emphatically.

    She explained that salaries of police officers, military equipment, and even hospitals are funded by taxes.

    According to her, many citizens overlook the visible outcomes of their contributions. 

    “TETFund projects in schools? That’s taxpayers’ money. VAT? 85% of it is shared with states and local governments,” she said, promising that FIRS will begin developing content that highlights how these funds are used.

    Meanwhile, Mr Olaolu Makinde, Head of the Technical Office, focused on the role of the media. 

    He urged reporters and advocacy groups to promote tax education, hold leaders accountable, and help the public understand Nigeria’s tax structure.

    On the other hand, the event host, Arabirin Aderonke Atoyebi, technical assistant on broadcast media to the FIRS Executive Chairman, underlined the importance of radio. 

    “We are very intentional about our radio programmes because people in the grassroots majorly listen to radio,” she said. 

    Atoyebi urged service providers to maintain professionalism. 

    “Tax reporting is very technical… a single word can mar everything you say,” she warned, pledging ongoing collaboration and support from the FIRS leadership.

    As the FIRS seeks to turn the tide on public perception and compliance, their message is clear: taxation funds the roads, the police, the schools—and through radio, that message is reaching the people it matters to most.