The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Late Afenifere leader Adebanjo for burial on May 3

    Late Afenifere leader Adebanjo for burial on May 3

    The family of Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo, revered nationalist, elder statesman, and leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has formally announced the funeral arrangements following his passing on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.

    A statement jointly issued by Mrs. Ayotunde Atteh (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mrs. Adeola Azeez (nee Ayo-Adebanjo), Mr. Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo, on behalf of the family members, said a series of events have been planned to honour the life, legacy, and values of the late elder statesman.

    The statement read in part: ”The final journey of the late Afenifere chief begins April 30th, 2025, 2 p.m. at the Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    ”A Day of Tributes/Service of Songs will be held on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, at the same venue. Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Read Also: 5 Unhealthy habits of Gen Z

    ”The wake will be held on Friday, May 2nd, 2025,  4 p.m. at Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s Country Home, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

    The statement added: ”A church service/funeral will be held on Saturday, May 3rd, 2025 at 10 a.m. at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

    ‘’The events will be concluded with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, 10 a.m. at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.”

  • LASG creates 3,941 parking slots to ease congestion

    LASG creates 3,941 parking slots to ease congestion

    Lagos State Government has created 3,941 new parking slots in key areas of the state to address traffic challenges across the state.

    The Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, made this known during the Y2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held to commemorate the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.

    Osiyemi explained that the initiative was part of the administration’s efforts to reduce indiscriminate parking and enhance vehicular movement across the state.

    He said the new parking facilities are designed to accommodate thousands of vehicles, providing residents with safer and more organized alternatives to roadside parking.

    Read Also: Trump, immigration and capitalism’s global crisis

    The Commissioner emphasized that the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) was established to regulate illegal parking, eliminate obstructions on roadways, deliver a world-class parking system, and promote voluntary compliance with the Lagos State parking policy.

    Speaking further Osiyemi said that the government has zoned the state’s parking scheme into five key areas: Ikeja, Ikoyi, Lekki, Victoria Island, and Surulere adding that this strategic zoning is expected to streamline parking operations and minimize congestion caused by unauthorized parking practices.

    He mentioned that the state has installed 669 parking signages along major roads to guide motorists to designated parking zones, noting that the signage will contribute to a more structured and user-friendly parking system.

  • Ambassador Lufadeju, visionary leader, true patriot – Are

    Ambassador Lufadeju, visionary leader, true patriot – Are

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Secretary of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), Lagos State, Alhaji Mutiu Are has described the late Ambassador Oluseyi Ebenezer Lufadeju as a visionary leader and patriot.

    In a tribute, Are described Lufadeju’s death as a  loss to the country.

    He wrote: ”With a heavy heart, I pay tribute to a remarkable man, Prince Oluseyi Ebenezer Lufadeju — a visionary, a leader, and a true patriot. His passing is not only a loss to his beloved family but to the nation and beyond.

    Read Also: 5 Unhealthy habits of Gen Z

    ”Prince Lufadeju’s life was defined by service and purpose. Through his unwavering dedication to urban development and housing, he left an indelible mark on the landscape of Nigeria and Africa as a whole. His work at Shelter Afrique and his role as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for REDAN embodied his passion for building sustainable communities and creating opportunities for growth.

    ”Beyond his professional achievements, Prince Lufadeju was a man of grace and wisdom. He inspired those who had the privilege to know him, leading with humility and a genuine desire to make the world a better place. His kindness and integrity touched lives far and wide, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for generations.

    ”As we mourn his departure, we also celebrate a life well-lived. Prince Lufadeju’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire us. May the Almighty grant him eternal rest and comfort his family in this difficult time.  Rest in peace, Prince. You will be dearly missed.”

  • LG poll: Ikeja Youths sponsor Omisore, chairmanship aspirant with N5.5m nomination form

    LG poll: Ikeja Youths sponsor Omisore, chairmanship aspirant with N5.5m nomination form

    The Ikeja Progressive Youths on Friday purchased the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship nomination form for Abisola Omisore, solidifying his position as a leading contender for the chairmanship of Ikeja local government in Lagos State.

    Hundreds of enthusiastic youths on Friday, April 25, gathered to show support during the formal presentation and endorsement, which also saw another aspirant, Mr. Tayo Aderinola, step down in support of Omisore.

    Speaking at the event, the group’s leader, Gbenga Bolaji, said the N5.5 million form was funded by the progressive youths of Ikeja in recognition of Omisore’s exemplary leadership, humanitarian contributions, and steadfast dedication to community development.

    “Today marks a significant moment in our collective journey towards a more progressive, inclusive, and prosperous Ikeja,” Bolaji said. “Leadership is not just about power, but about service, vision, and genuine commitment to the people.”

    He described Omisore as a leader who has consistently prioritised youth empowerment through initiatives such as skills acquisition programmes, educational support, and palliative distributions.

    “We did not arrive at this decision lightly,” Bolaji added. “After carefully evaluating his plans, past contributions, and vision for Ikeja, we are confident that Omisore is the leader we need at this crucial time.”

    According to the group, Omisore’s leadership style reflects the belief that youth are not just future leaders, but vital stakeholders in today’s governance.

    The youth leader also said that Omisore’s popularity in Ikeja was not by chance but by choice, the choice to serve selflessly. 

    He added that Omisore has impacted countless lives through various initiatives, including healthcare interventions, community development projects, and welfare programmes.

    “His blueprint for Ikeja is one of sustainable development, infrastructure improvement, and economic growth. We have examined his plans, and they align with our aspirations for a better, more prosperous local government,” he said.

    Aderinola, one of the aspirants who stepped down, said that after consultations and careful deliberation with his legal counsel and supporters, he chose to withdraw from the chairmanship race in support of Omisore.

    “I am delighted to declare my support for a chairmanship aspirant who possesses the requisite qualifications and shares my vision for sustainable development and the well-being of the people of Ikeja.

    Read Also: Nigeria should follow global standards in engineering education, says Omisore

    “He is also actualising the renewed hope mantra of our National Leader and President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who coincidentally hails from Ikeja’s political base.

    “In light of the current situation, I am pleased to announce my endorsement and support for Mr Abisola Omisore, the most exceptional chairmanship aspirant to represent our great party, APC, in Ikeja for the forthcoming Local Government Elections,” he said.

    In his remarks, Omisore expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Ikeja Progressive Youths for their remarkable gesture of purchasing the nomination form on his behalf.

    “This is not just a form; it is a symbol of your belief in my vision, your trust in my capacity, and your commitment to the progress of Ikeja. I do not take this for granted.  

    “My dear progressive youths of Ikeja, respected leaders here at present, I stand before you with immense gratitude and a heart full of humility.  

    “I want to express my deepest appreciation to the Youth for this incredible gesture of purchasing the nomination form on my behalf. 

    “Your support goes beyond politics, it is a testament to the power of collective ambition and the shared desire for a better Ikeja. You have shown that when the youth unite with purpose, great things happen. 

    “Today, you have not just endorsed a candidate; you have ignited a movement for transformative leadership,” he said.

    Omisore stated that if entrusted with the mandate, his administration would make youth empowerment and job creation top priorities, emphasizing that “the future belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

    He added that inclusive governance would also be central to his agenda, ensuring that every community, market, and street has a voice in decision-making.

    “Infrastructure and sustainable development will not be left out because Ikeja deserves roads, healthcare, and facilities that match its status as the heartbeat of Lagos. Likewise security and welfare, ensuring that every resident feels safe and valued,” he said.

  • IHRC backs Tinubu’s leadership, calls for urgent security reforms

    IHRC backs Tinubu’s leadership, calls for urgent security reforms

    The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) Corporation in Nigeria has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu, citing his democratic credentials and past achievements, including his role in the 1993 NADECO street march.

    In a statement signed by its Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, Ambassador (Dr.) Duru Hezekiah, the Commission acknowledged Nigeria’s current challenges but expressed confidence in Tinubu’s ability to lead the nation through turbulent times and deliver meaningful progress.

    “You have done it before; please do it again for the good of all Nigerians,” Hezekiah said, encouraging the President. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with the people of Nigeria.”

    He urged the Federal Government to prioritise comprehensive security reforms, particularly the adoption of technology to combat insecurity and address its root causes.

    The IHRC also called for intensified efforts to promote peace, human welfare, and national development, stressing the importance of protecting lives and property, ensuring justice for victims of violence, and holding perpetrators accountable.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails City People publisher Seye Kehinde at 60

    The Commission further urged the Tinubu administration to urgently implement a Comprehensive Security Reform (CSR) strategy with technology-driven solutions and robust oversight mechanisms to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

    Hezekiah said the organization is actively involved in monitoring situations bordering on human rights, peace, and development and building strategic partnerships aimed at reducing violent extremism in Nigeria.

    He said, “We are deeply saddened by the recent spate of killings in Nigeria, which have resulted in the loss of countless lives. Besides the issue of terrorism and banditry ravaging the Northeast and Northwest, the challenge of kidnapping runs through the entire North and parts of the South, while activities of unknown gunmen hold sway in the Southeast.”

    One thing that is common to the conflicts, according to Dr. Hezekiah, is that the civilian population is often subjected to gross human rights violations and humanitarian disasters. “The dire consequences of these events spin off into adverse international humanitarian crises, which we now have in our hands in parts of the world, including Nigeria.”

    As the world grapples with multiple interconnected crises, such as widening gaps in peace, development, trust, and governance, he disclosed that humanity stands at a historic crossroads, facing increasing instability and transformation, noting that the urgent need for solidarity and cooperation has never been more evident.

    “The government must take immediate steps to protect the lives and property of its citizens; governments should prioritise security challenges that affect the nation’s safety and well-being, and ensure that the protection of citizens from harm becomes a top priority,” he added.

    The IHRC Head said the governments can promote a safer and more stable environment for their citizens, while calling on the authorities to swiftly investigate the acts of violence, bring the perpetrators to justice, and take all necessary measures to prevent further bloodshed.

    He further recommended that the Federal Government engage local communities to ensure that solutions are rooted in the specific cultural and socio-economic contexts of the affected regions, and also called on citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

  • Edo North APC leaders endorse Oshiomhole for second term

    Edo North APC leaders endorse Oshiomhole for second term

    In a remarkable show of political unity and strategic resolve, the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership in Edo North Senatorial District has thrown its full weight behind Senator Adams Oshiomhole for a second term in the Senate.

    The unanimous endorsement came during a high-level caucus meeting held in Iyamho, Oshiomhole’s hometown, shortly after a critical security summit with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo.

    The dual-purpose gathering underscored both the security priorities of the region and the party’s political direction ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Read Also: In defence of Humphrey Nwosu: Correcting Oshiomhole’s misconception

    According to a statement issued yesterday by the Media Assistant to the Minister of Regional Development, Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah, the endorsement closed the door to internal contention over Edo North Senate ticket within the APC.

    The meeting brought together prominent political heavyweights and stakeholders from across Edo North, including the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh; former Minister of Budget and National Planning, Clement Agba; APC elder, Chief Francis Alimikhena; South-South political strategist, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere; federal lawmaker, Dekeri Anamero; grassroots mobiliser, Chief Abu Millionaire; political figure, Chief Ohimai and development technocrat, Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, among others.

  • Sanwo-Olu: Lagos is investors’ delight

    Sanwo-Olu: Lagos is investors’ delight

    With a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $259b, a 25 million population, four seaports and friendly government policies, Lagos is an investor’s delight, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said.

    “Lagos is a place where people come in without anything and become somebody. We are a business and commercial powerhouse,” he said on Wednesday.

    It was another sales drive for the “State of Aquatic Splendour” at Harvard Business School where Mr. Sanwo-Olu spoke on “Building the Future: Lagos State Infrastructure-led Transformation”.

    He was a guest in Professor Hakeem Belo-Osagie’s course, “Understanding Africa: Business, Entrepreneurship, Political Economy and the Complexities of a Continent.”

    Belo-Osagie is a foremost Nigerian investment banker and businessman.

    For the governor, it was an opportunity to share “Lagos’ bold vision and the tangible strides we are making in transportation, housing, innovation and industrial growth”.

    The students applauded as Sanwo-Olu spoke on the Blue Line, Africa’s first intra-city line, which has moved over two million passengers, an average of 42,000 commuters daily. The Red Line is also up and running, he said.

    “We are building a new airport on the Lekki- Epe Expressway, and work is set to begin on the Green Line, which will connect that part of the state to Lagos Island,” he said.

    Sanwo-Olu spoke on remarkable strides in education. “Two new universities have been set up, and a third, a University of Medical Science, is on the way to bridge the personnel gap in that sector,” he said.

    Lagos, the governor said, is one of the foremost tech-driven states in Nigeria. The idea, he stressed, is to have a big pool of tech personnel so that if Microsoft or Amazon is looking for 10,000 to hire, Lagos will be the place to go. “This is part of our 30-year Development Plan to make Lagos a human-centric economy,” he said.

    Read Also: Prayers for Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Okeowo

    This is possible, according to him, because of Lagos’ 25 million population, about 60 percent is made of youths who are tech savvy.

    He spoke of opportunities in tourism, arts, and culture. “There have been fashion shows, drama performances, and movies. In fact, a movie made in Lagos has just been nominated to be presented at the Cannes Film Festival,” he said.

    ”We are trying to calendarise tourism and entertainment,” Sanwo-Olu told the excited audience of students from various parts of the world.

    Also cited were achievements in roads and housing as well as health. Over 1000 roads have been built and rehabilitated and more than 3000 housing units have been provided to reduce the challenge in that sector,” Sanwo-Olu said, adding that more CNG buses were on the way to boost transportation and clean energy.

    In health, the government is building a General Hospital, a mental health hospital and rehabilitation centre, and a new Massey Street Children’s Hospital, which will be the largest in Sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Okpebholo okays payment of five-month salary arrears for poly workers

    Okpebholo okays payment of five-month salary arrears for poly workers

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the payment of five-month salary arrears, alongside prompt payment of April salary for the workers of Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, in line with the N70,000 minimum wage.

    The disbursement, according to Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, yesterday in a statement, was seen as a significant step in addressing the longstanding salary issues that had demoralised workers and disrupted the smooth running of the academic calendar at the institution.

    Read Also: Okpebholo orders indefinite suspension of Agenebode monarch

    Itua noted that Okpebholo’s administration had taken structural steps to permanently address the salary challenges facing the polytechnic, with one of the key reforms including the centralisation of the institution’s salary payment, now handled directly through the state government’s payroll system.

    He said the reform would ensure regular salary payments and enhance accountability in the management of the institution’s finances.

  • Lagos pays N1.5b WAEC fees of 58,188 pupils

    Lagos pays N1.5b WAEC fees of 58,188 pupils

    Lagos State Government has paid N1.5 billion for West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees for 58,188 bona fide students between 2024 and 2025.

    The Commissioner for Basic Primary and Secondary School Education, Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, who dropped the hint, also announced the establishment of 17 schools within a year.

     He spoke yesterday while presenting the scorecard of the ministry in the last one year at the 2025 ministerial briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.

    Of the new schools, the commissioner said two were primary, 10 junior secondary schools, while five were senior secondary schools.

    Read Also: JUST IN: NASU issues seven-day strike ultimatum to WAEC

    The commissioner also said 17,575 students were successfully transferred from public and private schools into the state’s Junior Secondary School II (JSII) and Senior Secondary School I (SSI).

    He said the payment of WAEC fees was part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to take off parents, the burden of payment of examination fees through the free education programme.

    “It is on this note that I urge and encourage students, more importantly, students in our boarding schools, to take full advantage of this initiative, as education is a lifelong journey,” he said.

    For 2025 payment, he said in order to prevent wastage and ensure accountability in sponsorship process, biometric capture and image registration exercise was conducted for  56, 134 Senior Secondary III students to accurately determine the number of students eligible for sponsorship by the Lagos State Government for the year 2025 WASSCE.

  • Tinubu, Abiodun, Obasanjo, others pay tributes to Otegbola at funeral

    Tinubu, Abiodun, Obasanjo, others pay tributes to Otegbola at funeral

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, senators and friends yesterday paid tributes to the late Sen. Ayodeji Otegbola, celebrating his life and legacy as “a life well lived, a legacy of love.”

    Sen. Otegbola, who represented Ogun West in the Third Republic Senate, was Chairman of the Federal Housing Authority and ex-Ogun PDP chairman.

    He passed away on February 15, at the age of 92.

    In a tribute signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the late senator as “one of Nigeria’s most distinguished statesmen.”

     “He was a respected legislator and a patriarch whose influence spanned generations.

    “Nigeria has lost a patriot, the Awori nation has lost a guiding light, and I have lost a noble elder whose life embodied sacrifice,” the President said.

    Governor Abiodun described Senator Otegbola as a distinguished politician and a patriotic Nigerian, who dedicated his life to public service, the development of Ogun State and Nigeria.

    He made the remarks at the funeral service of the late Senator Otegbola, held at the African Church St. Paul’s Cathedral, Lagos East Diocese, Ilupeju, Lagos State.

    Prince Abiodun said the deceased made impactful contributions to the development of the country as a senator and as a former chairman of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).

    He said: “He was a man of impeccable character, a distinguished politician and a patriotic Nigerian, who dedicated his life to public service and the development of our dear state and nation at large. His contributions as a senator in the Third Republic and as a former chairman of Federal Housing Authority were marked by diligence and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.”

    Read Also: Abiodun consoles Otegbola family over ex-lawmaker’s death

    The governor noted that as a trailblazer in the field of Estate Surveying and Valuation, the late Otegbola played a significant role in shaping the real estate sector of the nation’s economy by mentoring young professionals and leaving a lasting impact on the industry’s landscape.

    Former President Obasanjo, represented by his wife, Bola, described the deceased as one of the eminent sons of Nigeria, who did his best towards the reconstruction of the nation’s political system, which led to the consolidation of democratic institutions in the country.

    Otegbola, Obasanjo said, left a positive and remarkable mark in every facet of life he ventured into, which attracted honours in the nation, the church, the business community, traditional institutions, as well as professional and social organisations, adding that his record would remain a challenge for generations to emulate.

    In his sermon, Primate Julius Abbe described the deceased as a lover of God and humanity through his services, noting that as a Senator of the Federal Republic, he contributed to the socio-economic and political development of the country.

    According to the cleric, Pa Otegbola was a compassionate man who dedicated his life to serve his people and the church, hence the titles of Asiwaju of Aworiland and Baba Ijo of St Paul’s Cathedral, Ilupeju, bestowed on him by his community and the church.

    He urged the people to live a life of service to God and humanity so as to be remembered, saying positions and influence amount to nothing if not used to uplift the people and build bridges of trust and friendship across different divides.