The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • ‘Why Seyi Tinubu needs maximum security’

    ‘Why Seyi Tinubu needs maximum security’

    President, Friends of Seyi Tinubu (FOST) Humanitarian Foundation, Adejorin Tai Manuel, has said the son of the President, Seyi Tinubu, needs maximum security because of his active engagements, which involve movement from one location to another.

    In a statement, Manuel was reacting to the comments made by Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, regarding ‘excessive’ security escort for the president’s son.

    He said, “The security around him today is not an abuse of power; it is a protective necessity. Nigeria has faced insecurity for over 20 years. No serious nation going through such challenges would allow the President’s first son to move around without protection. Any attempt to harm him would not only embarrass the President but also the entire nation.

    “What makes Seyi Tinubu’s own case more visible today is simple. He chooses to be useful and actively engaged. He works closely with young people, communities, NGOs, and various sectors. Because of his constant public engagements, invitations, and community interactions, he frequently moves from one location to another, and as the President’s son, he must be protected.

    “Many people forget that the issue of security around the families of political leaders did not start with Seyi Tinubu, nor with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Anyone familiar with Abuja knows that the children and family members of top government officials have always had state-provided security across multiple administrations. This is not new, strange, or unique.

    “Importantly, Prof. Soyinka himself acknowledged that Seyi approached him with respect. That is who Seyi is. If he were arrogant or entitled, Baba Soyinka may not even have realized he was present, and the scene would have appeared as the film set he thought it was.

    “Those who know Seyi in Abuja and Lagos can attest to his humility and modesty. It is widely known that he often drives himself. The paraphernalia of power is not new to him. His father has been a Senator, a two-term Governor of Lagos State, and a successful businessman long before becoming President. Seyi has grown within the realities of public office for decades while also building his own businesses.”

  • Orangun urges youths to embrace education, drive national development

    Orangun urges youths to embrace education, drive national development

    The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, has called on youths, particularly students across Nigeria, to stop merely lamenting the country’s challenges and instead contribute positively to its development.

    Oba Abolarin made the appeal on Thursday during the 30th anniversary celebration of Kidvarc School, Iree, in the Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State.

    He emphasised that prioritizing education reflects a commitment to the future, both individually and as a nation.

    “Education can never be a scam. We must embrace good education with the spirit of patriotism. That is the only way we can advance this nation. Nigerians must stop complaining about the situation of Nigeria and aid the system to work for everyone,” the monarch said.

    He added that the educated elite have a crucial role in fixing the country, stressing that education should be inclusive and not deprive the less privileged of opportunities.

    The Proprietor of Kidvarc School, Prince Oyeyemi Omotoso, who is based in the United States, urged Nigerians living abroad to return home and contribute to nation-building.

    “This school was established by my father in 1994 in Nigeria, rooted in the culture, traditions, and social experiences of African children after he left the University of Gainesville, Florida,” Omotoso noted.

    He also encouraged school owners and students to adopt a technology-driven approach to education to remain competitive globally.

    Omotoso commended the school’s alumni for contributing to its development, including the construction of a clinic and modern toilet facilities.

  • Afrimash boosts food security push at Oyo 2025 Agribusiness Summit

    Afrimash boosts food security push at Oyo 2025 Agribusiness Summit

    Afrimash has reinforced its standing in Nigeria’s food security drive at the Oyo 2025 Agribusiness Summit, emerging as one of the most visible and influential private-sector players at the event.

    The Ibadan-based agritech company attracted steady traffic to its stand, which served more as a centre for learning and collaboration than a conventional exhibition space.

    Farmers, students, policymakers, and development partners converged on the pavilion, drawn by practical demonstrations and solution-driven conversations.

    Speaking at the summit, Afrimash Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer, Akinwumi Oyedotun, underscored the growing role of digital tools in modern agriculture, describing technology as indispensable to solving Nigeria’s persistent food production challenges.

    A major highlight was the visit of the Oyo State Governor to the Afrimash stand during his official tour. Oyedotun demonstrated how farmers using basic mobile phones can order livestock inputs, access veterinary guidance, track deliveries through Afrimash’s USSD service, and connect with verified suppliers.

    He also showcased AVA, the Afrimash Virtual Advisor on WhatsApp, which enables farmers to send voice notes in local languages and receive instant, AI-driven advice on animal health, feeding, and breed management.

    The governor commended the solutions for their simplicity and relevance, particularly for rural farmers with limited access to reliable information and quality inputs. Participants at the summit observed that the company’s focus goes beyond sales, prioritising farmer empowerment through trusted, accessible tools.

    Oyedotun’s background in large-scale agricultural technology predates the recent agritech boom. His early work at Cellulant contributed to the USSD and mobile infrastructure behind Nigeria’s Fertilizer Subsidy and Voucher Programme, later known as the Growth Enhancement Support (GES) scheme, which helped curb corruption and improved direct delivery of subsidies to farmers.

    From its base in Ibadan, Afrimash has expanded nationwide, providing farmers with verified livestock inputs, secure payment systems, trusted suppliers, and doorstep delivery services. For many livestock farmers, the platform has evolved from an e-commerce service into a dependable production partner.

    At the close of the summit, Afrimash signalled its readiness to deepen collaboration with the Oyo State Government, with a focus on strengthening extension services, widening access to quality inputs, and deploying digital advisory tools to underserved farming communities.

    By the end of the Oyo 2025 Agribusiness Summit, Afrimash had positioned itself not just as a participant but as an active driver of Nigeria’s agricultural transformation, combining innovation with practical, farmer-centred solutions.

  • Makjnde’s wife distributes raw food, cash, others to women

    Makjnde’s wife distributes raw food, cash, others to women

    Wife of Oyo Governor Engr. Mrs Tamunominini Makinde has charged women across the State to imbibe the spirit of giving, strengthen family bonds and continue championing peaceful communities as 2025 is gradually going to end.

    She commended women in the State for their resilience throughout the year, saying their strength and contributions has continue to sustained communities across the state.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the 2025 End-of-the-Year and Christmas Women’s Party, Mrs Makinde, who was represented by wife of the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Ajibola Lawal, said the annual celebration was not just a social gathering, but time to reflect on how far women have been as in families, and the state.

    According to her, Oyo women have demonstrated resilience in business, public service, agriculture, community building, and in their homes, saying women are the heartbeat of Oyo State, and their sacrifices keep the wheels of progress turning.

    She stated that her vision for women was to continues to shine as beacon of hope, empowerment, and unity, adding that her office remained committed to creating platforms where women can bond, share experiences, and feel valued.

    She said Christmas provides unique opportunity for women to reflect on the blessings of the year while embracing the hope and opportunities that the new year will bring.

    Read Also: Tinubu unveils new security, economic blueprint to harness Nigeria’s marine wealth

    She urged women to rekindle the true essence of Christmas through generosity and compassion, saying Christmas is not just a celebration, but a call to love.

    “Let us share what we have, no matter how little with those around us. A simple act of kindness can transform someone’s entire year.”

    She however extended warm wishes to all families, praying that Christmas brings peace, prosperity, and lasting joy to every home in Oyo State.

    Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun applauded Mrs Makinde for consistently championing the cause of women and creating platforms that promote unity, gratitude, and sisterhood. 

    She noted that women coming together to share experiences reinforces collective strength.

    The Commissioner commended Oyo women for their remarkable contributions across multiple sectors during the year.

    She however reaffirmed that the Ministry, with continued support from the Governor and the First Lady, would remain dedicated to advancing policies and programmes that ensure safety, dignity, and economic independence for all women.

    Highlight of the event include distribution of food items and cash to women from all 33 local government areas, a gesture aimed at supporting families during the festive season and easing the economic strain experienced by many households.

  • Makinde okays over N55b for roads others

    Makinde okays over N55b for roads others

    Oyo State Government has approved the building and rehabilitation of 45.3-kilometre Saki-Ogboro-Igboho Road, at a cost of N18,141,307,000.

    This is besides approvals of the dualisation of Ariyo-Amuloko-Odeyale junction, which will receive N15,127,644,000.

    These are among other projects across sectors approved, with barely 17 months to the end of the tenure of Governor Seyi Makinde.

    A statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the approvals were given on Tuesday during the state Executive Council meeting.

    Oyelade said: “The Council approved the construction and rehabilitation of 45.3-kilometre Saki-Ogboro-Igboho road, at a cost of N18,141,307,000, citing damages caused by heavy rainfall in July.

    “Additionally, Ogbooro-Agbonle road has been included on the project list to assist farmers in transporting agricultural produce efficiently.”

    According to the commissioner, Governor Makinde’s administration has not relaxed its commitment to critical infrastructural interventions in Oke Ogun area, even after completing Saki Township Dualisation Road, a project abandoned by previous administrations.

    Oyelade said security measures were also being strengthened, with airstrips in Otu and Igbeti designated for two new state aircraft and the MOPOL, mobile police station relocated to Ago Are to tackle banditry and other forms of insecurity.

    The commissioner said works had begun on Igboho-Kishi 30km road, as well as the 23km Okaka-Igbojaye road, and Kunle Afolayan Production Film Village in Komu.

    The Council also approved the completion of long-abandoned Kishi Fire Station at a cost of N141,864,000.

    Oyelade said other major approvals at the meeting included dualisation of Ariyo-Amuloko-Odeyale junction, which would receive N15,127,644,000 from the state government.

    He said the project would serve as a vital link to Ogun State via Dagbolu and provide an alternative route from the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) to Ijebu Ode.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    The Council also approved asphaltic rehabilitation of roads within old and new Bodija, including Francis Okediji, Layi Osunkunle, Ekiti-Bamiji-Ojo, Osun, Kongi, Theophilus Akinyele, Peller, Ladosun Ladapo, and Adebajo Street, at a total cost of N16,205,172,000.

    According to him, a special intervention fund of N6.8 billion has been earmarked for Iwo Road-Olodo Bridge-ElesinGodogbo-Lalupon-Iyana Ofa road, bringing the total project cost to N14,538,681,000, pending the submission of an advanced payment guarantee from a reputable bank.

    Oyelade said the Makinde administration had spent well over one trillion on infrastructures since 2019.

    In education, the Council approved the procurement and distribution of 23,042 science equipment/materials to 99 public secondary schools, at a cost of N107,739,115 to boost learning across the state.

    He said the Project Facilitation Fund (PFF) was established to accelerate project implementation, enhance coordination among MDAs and develop bankable investment-ready projects.

    The fund will be coordinated by Oyo State Investment Promotion Agency (OYSIPA).

    Oyelade said Oyo State Medical Residency Training Bill 2025 was approved and forwarded to the House of Assembly for assent, marking a major milestone in health care development.

  • Ex-governors, Senate Leader, FAAN MD board maiden commercial flight to Ekiti airport

    Ex-governors, Senate Leader, FAAN MD board maiden commercial flight to Ekiti airport

    Former Ekiti State governors Ayodele Fayose, Niyi Adebayo and Dr. Kayode Fayemi were among personalities who yesterday boarded the maiden full commercial flight to Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport. 

    The inaugural flight operated by United Nigerians Airlines, which touched down at 11am, took off from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja at 10:30am.

    Besides the ex-governors, those also on board the aircraft with registration number 5B-BWY were the Managing Director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Olubunmi Kuku, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation, Dr. Yakubu Adam Kofarmata, serving National Assembly members from Ekiti State and the Chairman of United Nigerian Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo.

    Upon arrival, the aircraft was honoured with a traditional water cannon salute by the airport fire service vehicles.

    Speaking at the inauguration, Governor Biodun Oyebanji described the beginning of commercial flights at the airport as a major breakthrough in the state’s economic development drive.

    He said the first commercial flight marked the beginning of a new chapter in Ekiti’s transportation infrastructure and a significant step toward the state’s long-term vision of a prosperous economy.

    Oyebanji said the state government had invested N49.7billion directly into the project since inception, while Chief Afe Babalola donated navigation equipment worth $1.6million and built a 100-car parking facility.

    He said his administration spent more than N34billion for the completion of critical civil works, airfield lighting, control tower, fire station, meteorological station, perimeter fencing, check-in and baggage systems, as well as ongoing workers’ quarters.

    Acknowledging the pioneering efforts of his predecessors, Oni, Fayose and Fayemi, for conceiving, acquiring and initiating the construction of the airport, Governor Oyebanji thanked President Tinubu for providing the support that enabled the state to complete the multi-billion-naira facility.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    The Executive Director of CCECC Nigeria Ltd, the company that built the airport, John Zhao, described the launch of the airport as a milestone for the firm and Nigeria.

    He said the facility, transformed from bare land into a fully functional aviation hub, stood as a proof of what leadership and Renewed Hope Agenda could deliver through collaboration and vision.

    Zhao said the airport would serve as Ekiti’s “sky gateway,” stimulating employment, logistics, tourism, global exports and fresh investments in the service sector.

    He added that its multiplier effect would enhance connectivity, reduce travel time and elevate the state’s standing as an emerging regional gateway.

    Prof. Okonkwo described the commencement of full scale service as a significant step in expanding domestic air connectivity.

    He said the new route would boost Ekiti’s economic prospects by supporting tourism, commerce, agriculture and the creative sector.

  • Olubadan to elevate Makinde, Sanusi, eight others tomorrow

    Olubadan to elevate Makinde, Sanusi, eight others tomorrow

    Nine chiefs in Otun Olubadan line from Jagun to Ayingun will be elevated tomorrow by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

    The ceremony, to be attended by members of Olubadan-in-council, will hold at Oke-Aremo Palace, Ibadan.

    Some of the chiefs include an Ibadan-based lawyer and Oyo State governor’s elder brother, Chief Olumuyiwa Makinde, who will be promoted from Aare Onibon to Gbonka Olubadan, while an engineer and business tycoon, Chief Dotun Sanusi, will be promoted from Ajia to Bada Olubadan.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    According to a statement by the media aide to the Olubadan, Chief Adeola Oloko, others that will also be elevated include Chief Dauda Gbadamosi (from Aare Ago to Ayingun Olubadan), Chief William Akande (from Lagunna to Aare Ago Olubadan), Chief Oluyinka Akande (from Oota to Lagunna Olubadan), Chief Olufemi Ogunwale (from Aare-egbe Omo to Oota Olubadan), Chief Wasiu Alaadorin (from Gbonka to Aare-egbe Omo Olubadan) and Chief Abiola Anlamole (from Bada to Aare Onibon Olubadan).

  • Lagos to remove illegal buildings

    Lagos to remove illegal buildings

    Buildings and structures erected beneath high-tension power lines risk removal, Lagos State Government warned yesterday.

    It said such encroachments posed severe safety risks to residents.

    Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Electronic Geographic Information System (EGIS) and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, gave the warning during an assessment tour of the Third Mainland Bridge corridor.

    Babatunde was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, the General Manager of Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Oladimeji Animashaun and senior officials of other relevant agencies.

    The inspection covered areas from Oworonshoki to Adekunle and Makoko axis of Ebute-Metta, where the team identified shanties and illegal structures encroaching on the bridge setbacks and violating the legally- prescribed 50-metre right-of-way.

    Babatunde said the state would no longer tolerate habitation or commercial activity beneath high-tension power lines or in restricted zones, emphasising that such practices endangered lives and property.

    He added that enforcement would be strengthened to ensure full compliance with planning regulations, safeguard infrastructure and enhance public safety.

    Oki noted that the government had held multiple stakeholder meetings with residents of Makoko and other affected areas, warning them about the dangers of building directly under transmission cables and close to the Third Mainland Bridge. “As far back as February this year, we gave them 14 days to vacate the area, but as you can see, they refused.

    “They are even extending towards the middle of the Third Mainland Bridge. We have warned them several times; the next step is to take the bull by the horns,” Oki said.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    He said during various engagements, the government made it clear that after repeated warnings, there will be no further notice before enforcement begins.

    He added that while the government continued to collaborate with community leaders, it must prioritise public safety.

    “If any of those cables fall and anything happens, the blame will be on the government. The lives of the people are more important. They are also encroaching on the Third Mainland Bridge,” he said.

    Oki also referenced similar enforcement carried out in Oworonshoki, which recently sparked protests and a temporary blockade of the Third Mainland Bridge.

    He noted that residents in the affected area were given a three-year amnesty period to regularise their buildings, yet only two households complied.

    He reaffirmed Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to enforcing urban development laws and protecting lives, despite resistance from some quarters.

  • Ondo senator hails President

    Ondo senator hails President

    The lawmaker representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a new phase of “mega empowerment” currently transforming the lives of people across his senatorial district.

    He spoke yesterday at an empowerment programme initiated by him and tagged: ‘Adegbonmire Renewed Hope Mega Empowerment Programme’, in Akure for members of his senatorial district.

    The Nation reports that items distributed at the programme included motorcycles, tricycles, generators, sewing machines, freezers, industrial machines, wheelchairs, dryers, educational materials, cash rewards and other livelihood-support tools.

    Senator Adegbonmire said President Tinubu’s emphasis on inclusive development was becoming increasingly evident at the grassroots, with empowerment interventions reaching the people.

    He noted that the economic reforms and intervention programmes of the Tinubu administration had brought development to  communities, with many witnessing improved access to livelihood support and small-scale economic growth.

    “As you can see, it is mega empowerment for renewed hope. That is the slogan of President Bola Tinubu. As a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Assembly, I am happy to continue to support Mr. President because I think he’s doing very well.

    “Since he cannot do everything himself, those of us who are supporting him must do everything to ensure people feel the impact of Mr. President. So I thank President Tinubu for giving me this opportunity to give back to my constituents,” the senator said.

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    He added: “The President is not going to come to Ondo State to campaign. We will campaign for him. This is part of the campaign for Mr. President. Hence, it is in support of the President, in support of the state government also.

    “If we do well, then the government here has done well. The President has done well. So, this is in support of the President and the state government, and my party – APC- the only party in Nigeria.”

    Adegbonmire said the empowerment programme cut across widows, artisans, market women and business owners, noting that close to 1,000 constituents would benefit from the gesture.

    “We are empowering about 200 widows, artisans and market women with cash. Ultimately, cash beneficiaries are about 200 people, while items go to about 650 beneficiaries – approximately 850 to 900 people.

    “As you all know, I have spent about two and a half years in the Senate. In 2023, we couldn’t do much because of the budget cycle, so effectively; this is the first full year of representation.

    “I thought it was important to show gratitude to my constituents by helping them to fish rather than giving them fish. All these items can be used to generate income,” he said.

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had hailed  Senator Adegbonmire for his laudable initiative of giving back to the people who entrusted him with their mandate to represent them at the National Assembly.

    Represented by his Special Adviser on Legislative Matters, Babatunde Kolawole, the governor said the present administration believed that in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, good governance must touch lives in meaningful ways.

  • Group lauds Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo

    Group lauds Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo

    A socio-political group in Ondo State, the Ijaw Consultative Forum (ICF) Worldwide, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Bunmi Tunji-Ojo, for what it described as “exceptional performance in office.”

    It dismissed a revived allegation concerning the minister’s National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, despite previous official clearance on the matter.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Suffy Uguoji, the group criticised those attempting to tarnish the reputation of Tunji-Ojo, who it said had consistently made Ondo State proud through his work at the Ministry of Interior.

    The renewed allegation, raised by Emorioloye Owolemi, concerns issues that have been laid to rest about the authenticity of the minister’s NYSC certificate.

    According to Uguoji, both the NYSC and a court had earlier looked into the matter, with outcomes the group said cleared the minister of wrongdoing.

    The ICF argued that resurrecting the issue suggested “an ulterior motive.”

    “We don’t see any reason that actually prompted Owolemi to raise the matter again if there is no ulterior motive behind it,” the statement said, adding that the minister had “no skeleton in the closet.”

    The group also distanced itself from a planned protest reportedly being organised over the allegation, claiming that individuals behind the planned demonstration were “eyeing Bunmi Tunji-Ojo’s position.”

    Read Also: ‘We have recorded 860 terrorism convictions since 2017,’ says AGF Fagbemi

    Uguoji said the people of Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, where the minister hailed from, would not participate in the protest.

    “Nobody knows Emorioloye in our constituency,” the statement said, alleging a lack of credibility on his part.

    The ICF called on security agencies to prevent any protest that could “create crisis in the state.”

    It said the minister enjoyed strong support in Ondo State, citing his earlier tenure as chairman of House Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and his current role in the federal cabinet.

    The group urged Tunji-Ojo to remain focused on his duties and on supporting President Tinubu’s re-election bid.

    According to the forum, campaign groups such as the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), Sunshine Grassroots Network (SGN) and G18 Progressives are targeting 95 per cent of the votes for Tinubu in Ondo State in 2027.