The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Workers hail Abiodun on end-of-year bonus

    Workers hail Abiodun on end-of-year bonus

    There was excitement among Ogun State workers, as the state government paid end-of-year bonus approved by Governor Dapo Abiodun, offering financial relief to thousands of public servants.

    For many workers, the payment came as a welcome boost at a time household expenses traditionally rise.

    The bonus, which has become a yearly tradition under the Abiodun administration, reflects government’s continued focus on the welfare and well-being of its workforce.

    Head of Service Mr. Kehinde Onasanya said the gesture was designed to appreciate workers for their dedication and commitment throughout the year.

    Read Also: IPI honour: Abiodun lauds DSS DG for upholding press freedom

    He said the bonus also acknowledged the role of public servants in driving government’s Building Our Future Together agenda.

    Onasanya said the payment cut across categories of employees, reinforcing an inclusive approach to workers’ motivation and service delivery.

    Workers described the bonus as timely and thoughtful, noting it would help them settle outstanding bills and prepare for the Yuletide.  They also expressed gratitude for the early payment of December salary, which they said had eased financial pressure and lifted morale across ministries, departments and agencies.

  • Group seeks end to smear campaign

    Group seeks end to smear campaign

    A professional group under the aegis of All Progressives Congress (APC) Lawyers Network for Bola Ahmed Tinubu (LANBAT) has called for restraint on how Nigerians criticise the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of his cabinet.

    The group, in a statement signed by Wuyep Mantim Nandom, co-convener, North-Central and Ogunbona Akinpelu, national secretary, described the Tinubu administration as the best youth-friendly government since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

    It said President Tinubu deserved commendation for appointing youths into his cabinet.

    “Since Nigeria’s return to democratic governance in 1999, youth participation in government has steadily expanded. Under the current administration, that involvement has reached an unprecedented level.

    “While youth inclusion has not been without challenges, particularly on allegations of corruption in some quarters, the present government deserves commendation for assembling competent, upright and results-driven appointees tasked with delivering the dividends of democracy,” the group added.

    Read Also: ‘Nigerians must be wary of opportunists in 2023’

    LANBAT, citing the Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as one of the good representatives of youths in the Tinubu administration that had attracted unwarranted attacks, expressed great concern that some of the attacks were coming from the ruling party.

    “Rather than celebrate performance, certain opposition elements both outside and, regrettably, within the ruling party appear bent on undermining progress. Their strategy has been consistent: discredit any appointee whose performance reflects positively on the administration. A recent example was the attempt to tarnish the reputation of a Professor of Law, Joash Amupitan, appointed as INEC chairman, by alleging he lacked an ‘O’ Level certificate—an allegation widely viewed as spurious.

    “The Minister of Interior has been a prime target of similar campaigns. The attacks have followed a predictable pattern: first, questions about his NYSC certificate; then, his academic qualifications; and when these failed for lack of evidence, a renewed fixation on his ‘O’ Level results even after former schoolmates publicly identified him as the Head Boy of his secondary school in Akure during their time.”

    It described as most troubling, the willingness of the critics to ignore measurable achievements in favour of relentless smear, saying “under a ‘business unusual’ reform agenda focused on efficiency and accountability, the Ministry of Interior has recorded notable milestones: modernisation of passport services through backlog reduction and contactless renewals; increased internally generated revenue; enhanced border security using technology such as the Advance Passenger Information (API) system; humane reforms in correctional services including inmate surgeries and increased female participation in recruitment with a 35 per cent allocation among others.”

    To end the unwholesome attacks, the group called on President Tinubu and the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, to investigate the matter and put a stop to the ‘blackmail’ of the president’s cabinet members by party faithful.

    “We urge the President and the APC national chairman to closely examine these internal and external machinations, investigate those engaged in persistent blackmail, and apply appropriate sanctions where necessary. Above all, capable hands within the cabinet who are delivering on the promise of Renewed Hope must be protected. The continuous attacks on performing officials must be halted for the sake of stability, progress and national interest.”

  • Nigerians urged on peaceful co-existence

    Nigerians urged on peaceful co-existence

    Nigerians have been urged to show love to one another and embracing peaceful coexistence during the festive season and the New Year.

    The lawmaker representing Amuwo-Odofin Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Mr. George Olawande Adegeye, gave the advice in his Christmas and New Year’s message to residents of the constituency.

    Mr. Adegeye noted that  the people should imbibe the spirit of Christmas which promotes love, unity, and compassion.

    They should also live harmoniously and shun violence, hatred, and hostility.

    He emphasised that peaceful coexistence remains essential for community development and progress, the lawmaker said his achievements in  office, goes beyond legislative and oversight responsibilities as he has facilitated several people-oriented interventions across the constituency.

    Read Also: Radda flags off 2024/2025 bursary, scholarships, reaffirms commitment to education in Katsina

    They  included the distribution of free school bags to pupils, provision of transformers to communities, free JAMB forms for prospective students, construction of boreholes, as well as empowerment programmes for widows and youths.

    Mr. Adegeye, who reaffirmed his dedication to improving the welfare of his constituents and assured them of continued quality representation, advised residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and security conscious throughout the festive period

    He urged them to observe safety precautions to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free celebration.

    The lawmaker wished the people of Amuwo-Odofin a prosperous new year.

  • Ogun workers hail Abiodun over end-of-year bonus, early salary payment

    Ogun workers hail Abiodun over end-of-year bonus, early salary payment

    Workers in Ogun State have expressed delight over the payment of an end-of-year bonus approved by Governor Dapo Abiodun, describing it as a major relief for thousands of public servants ahead of the festive season.

    The workers said the bonus, which has become an annual tradition under the Abiodun administration, underscores the government’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of its workforce.

    Commenting on the development, the State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, said the gesture was meant to appreciate workers for their dedication and commitment throughout the year.

    He added that the bonus also recognises the contributions of public servants to the implementation of the state government’s Building Our Future Together agenda.

    Read Also: Shallow religious knowledge responsible for violent extremism in Nigeria – Imam

    Onasanya noted that the payment covered all categories of state government employees, reflecting an inclusive approach to staff motivation and improved service delivery.

    Several workers who spoke with reporters described the bonus as timely and considerate, saying it would help them clear outstanding obligations and adequately prepare for Christmas and the New Year.

    They also thanked the state government for the early payment of the December 2025 salary, noting that it had eased financial pressure and boosted morale across ministries, departments, and agencies.

  • Oyo APC guber aspirant, Saheed Oladele, escapes assassination attempt

    Oyo APC guber aspirant, Saheed Oladele, escapes assassination attempt

    Oyo State All Progressives Congress gubernatorial aspirant and Baàmèkó of Ibadanland, Oloye Saheed Oladele, has escaped an assassination attempt while returning from a political meeting in Lagos.

    According to a statement issued on Sunday, December 28, by Maroof Asudemade, Director of Media and Publicity for the Saheed Oladele Support Foundation, the incident occurred when Oladele’s entourage was attacked, and his vehicle was reportedly hit by a projectile.

    Read Also:Alchemy emerges winner as Nigeria hosts first-ever classical guitar competition

    The statement noted that the attack might be linked to Oladele’s growing popularity and increasing acceptance among the Oyo State electorate, which it said has become a threat to those who had previously underrated him.

    Details surrounding the incident remained sketchy at the time of filing this report.

  • NGO urges sustained compassion for elderly, vulnerable groups

    NGO urges sustained compassion for elderly, vulnerable groups

    A non-governmental organisation, Grace Relief Initiative International Inc. (GRII), has called for sustained compassion towards the elderly and other vulnerable groups, describing it as a vital pathway to promoting love, dignity, and a sense of belonging in society.

    The organisation made the call during an event organised for volunteers of Arinola Kitchens, one of its humanitarian arms. Founders of the NGO, Apostle (Dr) Israel Eledan and Reverend (Mrs) Grace Eledan, urged federal and state governments to create a more enabling environment for collaboration between humanitarian organisations and government agencies to strengthen social welfare delivery.

    The founders also commended Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for prioritising the welfare of senior citizens through the prompt payment of pensioners’ gratuities and workers’ salaries.

    Speaking at the event, Rev. (Mrs) Grace Eledan reaffirmed GRII’s commitment to caring for the elderly and the underprivileged, describing the outreach as the organisation’s contribution to societal development.

    “We will not relent in showing love and care to the elderly and those in need. This is our own way of giving back and strengthening the fabric of our society,” she said.

    In his remarks, Apostle (Dr) Israel Eledan said GRII’s programmes are inclusive and designed to meet the needs of youths, men, women and other vulnerable populations.

    “This is a vision God has placed in our hands, and we take delight in impacting lives positively through it. Arinola Kitchens is a programme that brings together both male and female volunteers to serve humanity,” he said.

    Read Also: Alchemy emerges winner as Nigeria hosts first-ever classical guitar competition

    Also speaking, Dr. Fiaz Masih, Coordinator of GRII and Arinola Kitchens Programme in Pakistan, described the initiative as impactful and inspiring, commending the volunteers for their dedication.

    “This is a very nice and fabulous programme. I truly enjoyed it. The volunteers are being appreciated for the great work they do, and that is commendable,” Masih said.

    He noted that Arinola Kitchens goes beyond food provision, serving as a platform for sharing love, hope, and the message of Christ, while hailing the founders for what he described as their exceptional compassion and spirit of service.

    Grace Relief Initiative International Inc., a non-governmental organisation registered in Nigeria and the United States, continues to impact the lives of needy elderly persons through Arinola Kitchens, a programme dedicated to providing food, care, and holistic support for senior citizens. The programme is coordinated under the directorship of Mrs. Victoria Olu-Talabi.

    The colourful event, which also served as the initiative’s Christmas celebration, featured the presentation of awards and appreciation funds to volunteers in recognition of their dedication and selfless service.

    Organisers emphasised that the vision of Arinola Kitchens goes beyond meeting basic needs, focusing on delivering total care and restoring dignity to elderly persons in need.

  • Osun 2026: My victory is divinely guaranteed – Oyebamiji

    Osun 2026: My victory is divinely guaranteed – Oyebamiji

    • Says his rivals are weak

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the 2026 Osun State election, Asiwaju Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) has said his victory is divinely guaranteed with the support of the people of Osun State.

    He declared that his co-contenders are weak, hence, he will win the gubernatorial seat of Osun State on August 8th, 2026.

    Oyebamiji, at the annual prayer programme organised by the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Ikire, on Saturday, said he was ready to put Osun on the right track when he assumes office.

    “The incumbent government of Osun State has failed the state in all sectors in the last three years. Osun is backward in education, our Primary Healthcare system is down, nothing is happening in agriculture, infrastructure is poor, and a lot of promises are failing.

    “I have said this several times that Bola Oyebamiji doesn’t have a competitor; I am going to win that governorship election come 2026. We believe strongly that by the special grace of God.”

    Speaking about the programme, he described the gathering as symbolic in view of the forthcoming election, stressing the importance of praying and believing in the oneness of God.

    READ ALSO: No place for terrorists, kidnappers in Kwara, says Abdulrazaq as forest guards end training

    Also, his wife, Sekinah Bola-Oyebamiji, noted that Osun State requires a leader who can govern with conscience and sensitivity.

    She said: “For more than 10 years that we have been doing this programme, 2025 witnessed a significant increase in attendance, no fewer than 6,000 residents attended.”

    Earlier, the Chief Imam of Ansar-Ud-Deen, Ikire branch, Badmus Adekunle, noted that the endorsement of Oyebamiji’s candidature by the leadership of the APC as its flag-bearer for the forthcoming Osun governorship election was a clear testimony to his sterling leadership qualities, unwavering loyalty to the party, proven competence in public service, and the immense goodwill he enjoys across the state.

  • Ekiti 2026: Fayemi mobilises support for Oyebanji’s re-election

    Ekiti 2026: Fayemi mobilises support for Oyebanji’s re-election

    The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has urged members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State to step up their mobilisation for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re- election for a second term, in spite of weak opposition in the state.

    Fayemi gave the charge during the annual get-together of leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held at his Isan-Ekiti country home on Friday, stressing that victory at the polls requires sustained hard work, unity and strategic grassroots engagement across all wards and local government areas.

    The former governor noted that while the current administration has recorded notable achievements, party members must not be complacent, adding that strong performance in governance must be complemented with effective political mobilisation to secure re-election.

    Fayemi, who admitted that Oyebanji’s superlative performance in the last three years had weakened opposition parties and almost made Ekiti a one-party state, said in spite of this, concerted efforts must be made so as to make the June 20, 2026, victory a resounding one.

    READ ALSO; 10 things to know about late actress Allwell Ademola

    He urged party faithful to close ranks, intensify door-to-door campaigns and continue to project the achievements of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji Administration, describing the Governor as a steady and people-oriented leader, who is committed to the development of Ekiti State.

    Fayemi further called on party members to remain focused, disciplined and peaceful in their engagements, expressing confidence that with collective effort and vigilance, the APC would record another resounding victory at the next governorship election in the state.

    He said “I just want to thank the leadership of the party because when I said as for me and my family we are for Governor Oyebanji, you all queue behind me and I also thank you for supporting the Governor but it’s not yet enough, where we are going now is the real business and I don’t want us to be complacent that we do not have opposition.

    “We must redouble our efforts, even if Governor Oyebanji is the only one on the ballot on June 20, 2026 (which I know is not ), don’t let us underrate any party. Let’s go to the poll with all the energy and mobilisation we can muster and make the victory a resounding one.”

    Oyebanji, in his remarks at the event,  expressed his gratitude to the former Governor and the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their continued support and guidance ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

    The governor said the party must approach the election as a united front, stressing that cohesion, loyalty and collective responsibility among members remain critical to sustaining the gains recorded by his administration and securing victory at the polls.

    “Well, I don’t have much to say. I adopt everything said by our leader. I will just thank God for what He has done for us in Ekiti and also thank our leader and the leadership of the party. I know that there is nobody today in Ekiti who is not proud of our party.

    ” Governor Fayemi said something that I want us to think about, that we should channel all the strength we have as a party to the June gubernatorial election. God has delivered us from the crisis of primaries, let’s approach the June 20, 2026, election with all the energy we have conserved, all the mobilisation and as a united front and demonstrate to them that this state belongs to us,” he added.

    Other speakers, including the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Senate spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, and State APC Chairman, Sola Elesin, hailed the Oyebanji -led administration for the impact it has made in the lives of the people in the last three years, a development they said had increased the fortune of the party in Ekiti.

    Also at the event were the wife of the former Governor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, members of the National and State Assembly, Ekiti APC Chairman, council chairmen, councillors and chairmen of Ward and local government chapters of the party, among others.

  • Osun LG crisis deepens as APC, PDP clash over allocation of funds in 2026

    Osun LG crisis deepens as APC, PDP clash over allocation of funds in 2026

    The lingering crisis over the control of local governments in Osun State has deepened as the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) continue to trade claims of legitimacy, with the ‘reinstated’ APC-backed local government executives indicating readiness to allocate council funds in the 2026 fiscal year.

    The APC and PDP had been at loggerheads since February 10th, 2025, after the Appeal Court reinstated APC council executives who had been sacked by the Federal High Court in 2022. However, another election was held which the PDP won all the seats.

    Subsequently, APC and PDP had been laying claim to the control of the councils. But the Federal Government directed the APC chairmen to open accounts on behalf of the councils, whose allocations were paid into the accounts.

    The state government kicked against the move, saying that only civil servants should be signatories to the account of councils and not the APC ‘sacked’ executives nor any appointed treasurer.

    Meanwhile, the PDP council chairmen had presented their 2026 fiscal year budget before the Osun State House of Assembly, while the APC chairmen presented their budgets before the Local Government Legislative Council.

    READ ALSO: No place for terrorists, kidnappers in Kwara, says Abdulrazaq as forest guards end training

    The APC factional Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State chapter, Hon. Abiodun Idowu, declared that there was no legal or administrative impediment preventing local government executives from accessing and utilising their statutory allocations from 2026 without interference from the Osun state governor.

    Efforts to speak with the media aide to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Olawale Rasheed, were abortive as his phone number was not available as at the time of filing this report.

    A source, however, said: “We have a peculiar situation in Osun State. The PDP chairmen are the ones legally recognized executives, and Governor Adeleke is ready to give thema  free hand to operate, but APC illegality is affecting the implementation.”

  • IPI honour: Abiodun lauds DSS DG for upholding press freedom

    IPI honour: Abiodun lauds DSS DG for upholding press freedom

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has congratulated the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, on his commendation by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI), describing the recognition as a strong affirmation of professionalism and respect for democratic values.

    The honour was bestowed on the DSS Director-General at the IPI’s annual conference held earlier this month in Abuja, an event at which President Bola Tinubu also acknowledged the evolving and more constructive relationship between the nation’s security agencies and the media.

    In a statement issued on Saturday in Abeokuta, Abiodun said the award was particularly significant because it came from a respected press institution known for its critical role as society’s watchdog.

    According to the governor, the recognition represents an “unassailable verdict” on Mr Ajayi’s commitment to human rights, press freedom and the rule of law, noting that such an endorsement from the media community carries profound meaning.

    Governor Abiodun observed that since his appointment, the DSS Director-General has anchored his leadership on professionalism, decency and discipline, while fostering a relationship of mutual respect between the security services and journalists.

    “The award conferred on the DSS Director-General by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute is a clear acknowledgement of his efforts in promoting constructive engagement between the media and security agencies, with the ultimate aim of building a united and resilient front against insecurity,” the governor said.

    READ ALSO: No place for terrorists, kidnappers in Kwara, says Abdulrazaq as forest guards end training

    He added that the recognition underscores the importance of a free, vibrant and responsible media in a democratic society, stressing that national development thrives where journalists can operate without fear of repression.

    “This honour is well deserved. It serves as an inspiration to public officials across the country to uphold transparency, accountability and good governance,” Abiodun noted.

    The governor expressed confidence that the cordial relationship between the Ogun State Government and the Department of State Services would continue to strengthen, while wishing Mr. Ajayi greater success in his mission to safeguard national security in line with democratic principles.