The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Osun marks World AIDS Day

    Osun marks World AIDS Day

    Osun State has commemorated World AIDS Day 2025 with a series of impactful, community-driven activities aimed at renewing commitment, raising awareness, and strengthening action toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.

    The event was themed, “Overcoming Disruptions; Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”

     Partners and stakeholders across the state delivered coordinated interventions that touched every segment of the population.

    The commemoration started with a vibrant road walk, featuring representatives from the TB, HIV, and Malaria programs, Network of people living with HIV( NEPWHAN), implementing partners, civil society groups, and community volunteers. Participants marched through major streets across Osun State, distributing educational materials and engaging residents on the importance of early testing, treatment adherence, and preventive practices.

    The road walk served as a powerful symbolic action to amplify visibility, reinforce solidarity, and mobilize community participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.

    A major highlight of the event was the rollout of comprehensive Integrated Testing Services, bringing essential health screening directly to the communities. These services included:

    Cutting-edge PDX diagnostic machines were deployed to conduct real-time screening for tuberculosis—particularly children and vulnerable groups. The use of these devices allowed for quicker identification of presumptive TB cases and immediate linkage to further evaluation.

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    Free, confidential HIV testing was offered to the general population, with special attention to pregnant women to strengthen the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) efforts. Trained counselors were available onsite to provide pre- and post-test counseling, ensuring individuals understood their results and next steps.

    Rapid malaria testing was also conducted for adults and children, supporting early diagnosis and reducing risk of complications. This integration reflected the state’s commitment to a holistic approach to public health.

    Throughout the activities, health educators and volunteers led awareness sessions addressing HIV prevention, stigma reduction, treatment adherence, benefits of knowing one’s status, and healthy lifestyle practices. These sensitization efforts targeted the general population, including youth, market women, transport unions, and rural communities. The interactive sessions helped demystify misconceptions around HIV, TB, and malaria, while encouraging individuals to take advantage of the free testing services available.

    The commemoration was coordinated by the Osun State Agency for the control of HIV in collaboration, State Aids Control Programme ( SASCP), Osun State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (STBLCP), Osun State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) with implementing partners.

  • Bolarinwa urges FG to strengthen border security

    Bolarinwa urges FG to strengthen border security

    There is a pressing need for effective monitoring and strong security at Nigeria’s borders if the government is truly committed to winning the ongoing battle against banditry and kidnapping, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa has said.

    Bolarinwa made this statement while discussing the insecurity in the country, with particular focus on Kwara State. He expressed that the level of insecurity in Kwara is alarming and represents a troubling development for a state traditionally known for its peace.

    Bolarinwa, who also served as the Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government, emphasized that local council chairmen play a vital role in addressing these issues due to their close connection with the communities.

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    He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the steps taken thus far to confront these challenges.

    Bolarinwa elaborated on the importance of implementing a nationwide data capture system for both Nigerians and foreigners residing in the country to create credible identities. He also highlighted the necessity of installing CCTV cameras in dark areas nationwide across all 774 Local Government Areas.

    He called for diligent monitoring of the country’s forests and stressed the need for discipline, unity, sincerity, and collaboration among all security agencies.

  • Oyo govt partners pacesetter transport to host transport fest 1.0

    Oyo govt partners pacesetter transport to host transport fest 1.0

    The Oyo State Government, in partnership with Pacesetter Transport Service, is set to host Transport Fest 1.0 on December 19, 2025, at the Seyi Makinde Terminal, Eleyele Transport Park, Ibadan.

    The festival, billed as a celebration of the transport sector and a platform for youth engagement, promises an exciting mix of music, comedy, cultural displays, and interactive activities designed to bring the community together.

    Popular artistes, comedians, and social media influencers are expected to perform, creating a lively atmosphere for residents, transport workers, and visitors.

    Speaking ahead of the event, Hon. Dr. Dikko Salami, chairman and sole administrator of pacesetter transport service said, “TRANSPORT Fest 1.0 is more than just entertainment; it is a celebration of progress in Oyo State’s transport sector. We want our people, especially the youth, to see the potential in the transport industry, to understand its impact on daily life, and to engage with it creatively. This festival is our way of combining fun, culture, and community dialogue under one roof.”

    He further emphasized that the festival would serve as a platform for discussions on transport innovation, safety, and efficiency, reflecting the state government’s commitment to modernizing public transport while creating opportunities for the youth.

  • Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment

    Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment

    Residents caught dumping refuse on roads will henceforth be arrested, corrected with compassion, and assigned community service as punishment, the Ogun State government has said.

    Commissioner for the Environment, Ola Oresanya stated this while briefing members of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council during their fourth quarterly meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.

    Oresanya stressed that the law forbids dumping refuse on roadways, noting that streets are not designated as dump sites. He explained that residents are expected to place their refuse in front of their homes for Private Sector Participants (PSPs) to collect directly at their doorsteps.

    He revealed that the state government was refining its enforcement strategy by shifting away from monetary fines to reduce financial pressure on citizens. Instead, offenders will be required to undertake community service.

    According to him, Governor Dapo Abiodun was deeply concerned about environmental management in the state and is investing significantly in new equipment to strengthen the Ministry of Environment’s operations.

    “Under no condition should you dump refuse on the road. OGWAMA has the authority to arrest offenders, and those arrested will do community service.

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    We will correct in love. You will sweep the road and collect refuse. When people see you doing that, they will understand the consequences, and you won’t return to the same habit,” he said.

    Oresanya added that Governor Abiodun has approved the procurement of brand-new trucks both for OGWAMA and the private waste sector to improve waste management across the state.

    Addressing the issue of noise pollution, the Commissioner disclosed that the ministry has shut several religious centres and other facilities found to be violating noise regulations.

    He encouraged residents to report such disturbances through the ministry’s dedicated helpline: 09010480056.

    He explained that sanitation should be a daily responsibility rather than a once-a-month ritual. He noted that Section 6 of the Constitution empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes, ensure bins are not overflowing, and prosecute erring households.

    Oresanya added that safety consultants from the ministry are inspecting gas plants across the state to ensure compliance with safety standards, with substandard facilities set to be shut down soon.

    Commending the ministry’s recent intervention in Ogijo, Chief (Mrs.) Iyabo Apampa urged the commissioner to also address air pollution and indiscriminate parking of trailers around Ibese and Papalanto where cement factories operate.

    Chairman of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, applauded the state government’s efforts in waste management and agricultural development.

  • Ogun tasks monarchs on contribution to national matters

    Ogun tasks monarchs on contribution to national matters

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has called on traditional rulers across the state to continue lending their royal voices to national matters, as well as issues affecting governance and the well-being of the people of the state.

     The Governor made this call during the Statutory Meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas, held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

     Represented by the Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Governor Abiodun acknowledged the invaluable roles of traditional rulers in preserving culture, fostering peace and promoting sustainable development.

     “I encourage all our Kabiyesi at this meeting to engage in constructive dialogue, share informed perspectives and explore practical solutions to current challenges. Your contributions will not only complement government’s efforts, but also play a crucial role in building a stronger, more united, and prosperous nation,” he stated.

     He underscored the importance of collaborative governance, with traditional rulers playing a pivotal part in shaping the socio-political landscape of the state.

     In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, appreciated all the monarchs present at the final statutory meeting for 2025.

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     He stressed the need for unity among traditional rulers and cautioned against actions that could bring disrepute to the revered royal institution.

     He pledged the continued support of the Council to the Ministry in safeguarding the dignity and sanctity of the traditional system.

    Highlight of the meeting was the heartfelt tributes and contributions from monarchs representing the four divisions of Ogun State on the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba. Sikiru Adetona.

  • Yuletide: Rep Osoba reaffirms commitment to constituents

    Yuletide: Rep Osoba reaffirms commitment to constituents

    Member of the House of Representatives for Abeokuta North, Obafemi-Owode and Odeda Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon Olumide Osoba, has reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of his people.

    This was as he embarked on a wide-reaching Festive Season Ward Reachout. 

    The initiative, he said, designed to support households and small business owners during the yuletide period, saw the distribution of generators and freezers across all wards in the constituency.

    Residents of Odeda Local Government, Obafemi Owode Local Government and Abeokuta North Local Government were beneficiaries.

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    The gesture, he said delivered in the true spirit of the season, aims to ease economic pressures on families and enhance productivity for local traders and artisans as the year draws to a close.

    The initiative was met with heartfelt appreciation across the communities, as beneficiaries praised Rt. Hon Osoba for his thoughtful and timely intervention. 

    Many offered prayers for his continued strength, success, and purposeful leadership, noting that such acts of kindness reflect his genuine commitment to uplifting the lives of those he represents and ensuring that the festive season brings renewed hope and comfort.

  • 2027: Folarin, Adelabu, others close ranks at Oyo APC stakeholders meeting

    2027: Folarin, Adelabu, others close ranks at Oyo APC stakeholders meeting

    • …as Folarin leads Renewed Hope Ambassador in Oyo

    Former Senate Leader Teslim Folarin has reconciled with the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, and other key figures of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Ibadan.

    This followed Folarin’s meeting a few weeks ago with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where Folarin was said to have been appointed as Renewed Hope Ambassador in Oyo State.

    Addressing stakeholders at the meeting, Folarin reaffirmed the party’s resolve to strengthen its structures and build a united front ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Those at the meeting include Senator Fatai Buhari, Senator Yunus Akintunde, a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi, a lawmaker representing Egbeda/Ona-Ara federal constituency, Hon. Akin Alabi, a lawmaker representing Ido/Ibarapa East federal constituency, Hon. Aderemi Oseni, a lawmaker representing Oluyole Federal Constituency, Hon. Tolulope Shadipe, and Hon. Olamijuwonlo Alao-Akala

    Others are: Former Deputy Governor in the state, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, Former Chairman of Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), Prof. Adeolu Akande, former Secretary to the State Government, Chief Lekan Alli, and former Chief of Staff to former governor Abiola Ajimobi, Prof. Gbade Ojo.

    Also in attendance were the former Minister of Communication, Barr. Adebayo Shittu, lawmaker representing Oluyole Federal Constituency, Hon. Tolulope Akande-Shadipe, Chief Lowo Obisesan, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle, Chief Waheed Ajisafe, and Sen. Hosea Agboola, among others.

    Folarin said the objective of the meeting was to unify all stakeholders in the party and consolidate on the 2023 presidential performance by achieving at least a 35% increase in total votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 election.

    He stated that unity remained the bedrock of any meaningful political advancement.

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    He said, “No political strategy, regardless of its brilliance, can succeed in an atmosphere of division. Our foremost responsibility is unity. One APC, One Tinubu Project must be our guiding principle.”

    He reiterated that the Renewed Hope agenda, which aligned with President Tinubu’s expectations, requires harmony, collaboration, and coordinated mobilisation across all levels of the party.

    He assured members that Oyo State would not only align with this national direction but would set a standard for political organisation and teamwork.

    He further stressed the importance of rebuilding and strengthening APC structures statewide, which includes the complete activation and revitalisation of party organs from the state executive level to all 33 Local Governments, 351 Wards, and every polling unit.

    “Our grassroots structures must be vibrant, functional, and connected to the people. Every ward, every unit, and every community must feel the presence and impact of the APC. This is how we consolidate our gains and deliver an even more convincing victory for President Tinubu in the next election.”

    Folarin, however, reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to working closely with party leaders, stakeholders, and the Renewed Hope Team to ensure that Oyo State becomes a model of strategic and inclusive political mobilisation.

    In his remark, the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, said the reconciliation was significant towards the peace and progress of the party, particularly when the 2027 general elections are around the corner.

    He lauded Tinubu’s effort in restoring unity in the party, urging party members to embrace unity to wrest power from the PDP in 2027.

    He stated that party members at the ward level, local government, and grassroots must be carried along in the ongoing reconciliation.

    He, however, commended Folarin for allowing reconciliation, saying better days are coming for the party, particularly in the 2027 general elections.

    In his remark, Sen. Ayo Adeseun said President Tinubu will not ignore the state if re-elected.

    He called on leaders of the party to open their doors for true and genuine reconciliation so that the party can come back to power in the state by 2027.

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the party in the state, Alhaji Olaide Abass, described the gathering as the beginning of good things in the party.

    He stated that peace and unity have been restored in the party, saying the party is now more united than before.

    He, however, urged members of the party to continue to be in unity to re-elect President Tinubu and wrest power from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state come 2027.

  • Salis: Why National Assembly should pass laws against use of thugs by politicians

    Salis: Why National Assembly should pass laws against use of thugs by politicians

    First Nigerian Astronaut, Chief Owolabi Salis, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of the National Assembly to enact a law prohibiting politicians from using thugs and hooligans for political activities.

    In a statement, Salis said politicians who require security should rely solely on the police or licensed security companies, which can be held accountable for any criminal actions committed by their personnel.

    He noted that in developed democracies across Europe and America, the use of thugs is rare, which contributes to the stability and sanity of their political systems.

    The Ikorodu-born explorer, who is also the first Black African and first Black person to visit both the North and South Poles within the same season, urged individuals, civil society groups, and NGOs to pressure the Presidency and the National Assembly to initiate the process of enacting the law, stressing the urgency of such reforms.

    Salis blamed the rise in banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and other crimes on politicians who arm and deploy thugs to intimidate opponents and sow chaos.

    He said political thuggery also discourages many eligible voters from participating in elections due to fear for their safety.

    According to him, some politicians turn thugs into private armies, equip them with weapons, and fuel them with drugs to make them more violent, only to abandon them afterward. He warned that once abandoned and unemployed, such individuals often resort to criminal activities to survive.

    Salis added that political thugs are frequently used to snatch ballot boxes, manipulate election results, and distort figures, undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

    He described the criminal use of thugs as “the number one bane of democracy in Nigeria,” arguing that democracy cannot thrive until political violence is eradicated.

    He said the climate of violence has discouraged many competent Nigerians at home and abroad from joining politics because of the dangers associated with thuggery and hooliganism.

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    Salis lamented that many politicians who should uphold law and order instead act as mentors and sponsors of thugs, miscreants, and bandits, who in turn engage in armed robbery, extortion, land grabbing, and other offences.

    He also accused some politicians of sponsoring bandits to destabilise the country and aid foreign economic saboteurs involved in illegal mining.

    He warned that those who engage in such acts face spiritual consequences, adding that a society ruled by unjust leaders cannot achieve peace or stability.

    Salis, who also leads the Soul Makers Ministry Worldwide, said the shortcomings of mainstream religions like Islam and Christianity in addressing hatred and violence have created gaps.

    He advocated Astro-Theology—which focuses on primary spiritual values—and Astro-Democracy, which removes the fear of domination among groups, as pathways to fostering harmony and reducing political violence in Nigeria.

  • Elerinmo felicitates Ooni of Ife on 10 years on throne

    Elerinmo felicitates Ooni of Ife on 10 years on throne

    Alayelua Oba Dr. Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaya II, the Elerinmo of Erinmo Ijesa in Osun State, has congratulated the iconic leader and custodian of Yoruba heritage, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, as he marks ten years on the throne.

    Oba Enitan Ogunwusi became the 51st Ooni and monarch of Ife after his predecessor, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, joined his ancestors in August 2015.

    Elerinmo noted that for the past ten years, Oba Ogunwusi’s reign has been impactful in Yorubaland and beyond, marking an era of transformative leadership and harmonious inter-cultural integration among races and polar divides

    In a message from the Elerinmo’s palace, Oba Arowotawaya II, whose royal gong on this special day for His Imperial Majesty will pummel, said the leadership of the revered Arole Oduduwa deserves to be celebrated. He said Ooni Ogunwusi is not only a monarch grounded in cultural preservation but also in his ability to connect personally with people from all walks of life.

    Oba Elerinmo described the bond between Ooni Ogunwusi and himself as one that exemplifies deep mutual respect and friendship, founded on a shared vision for the progress of the Yoruba race worldwide.

    “His ten years on the throne have witnessed an impactful and transformative change. Ooni’s humility, grace, and wisdom are qualities that have made him a beacon of hope, particularly for the youths of our nation.

    “He has consistently shown his commitment to nurturing the next generation, empowering them to rise above challenges and become leaders of tomorrow. This he did by the establishment of many impactful projects, such as the Ojaja University for higher education located at Eye Korin in Kwara State, with a campus to be opened in Ile-Ife as part of activities marking his 10th Coronation Anniversary.

    Remarkably, Ojaja Malls, an event centre established in various cities that include Ojaja Mall Ife, Akure, Osogbo, and Lagos. In the hospitality industry, the Ife Grand Resort stands as one facility that gave hundreds of youths jobs. Besides that, Ooni has engaged in many empowerment initiatives that have benefited many beyond Yoruba land,” Elerinmo said.

    In addition, Oba Arowotawaya II explained how Ooni’s reign has been marked by immense contributions to the advancement of the Yoruba race, noting that his efforts towards fostering unity, peace, and development among the Yoruba people are commendable.

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    “His Majesty’s passion for empowering the youth, women, and widows has been evident in numerous initiatives that have uplifted many lives, creating opportunities for growth and progress,” remarked Elerinmo.

    He extolled Oba Ogunwusi’s giant stride in cultural matters, saying he has been a pivotal figure in elevating Yoruba culture, particularly through his remarkable efforts in transforming the annual Olojo Festival into a world-class tourism event.

    He noted that what was once a localized celebration, restricted to the people of Ile-Ife, has now gained global recognition, with guests from various parts of the world attending to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

    “As you celebrate your first decade on the throne, the Elerinmo palace and Chiefs in Council acknowledge Your Majesty’s exceptional leadership skills, wisdom, and your compassionate heart. Your reign has brought unity to the Yoruba land and positioned our cultural heritage on the global stage.

    “On this ceremonious occasion, we pray for God’s continued blessings upon His Majesty. May your reign be long, peaceful, and prosperous. May you continue to lead in wisdom, strength, and a deep sense of responsibility toward the welfare of your people, and the entire Yoruba race,” Elerinmo said.

    Meanwhile, Ooni Ogunwusi has vigorously re-imagined his reign as a cultural and tourism renaissance for Ile-Ife. Within ten years of ascending the throne, he redesigned Ife land as a “tourism zone,” with the aim of transforming the ancient city into a world-class destination. Under his watch, several heritage sites and cultural assets have been refurbished or rebranded. He has supported the celebration and institutionalization of Yoruba traditional festivals, reinforcing the spiritual and historical identity of Ife and Yorubaland, both at home and in diaspora.

    Ooni’s cultural diplomacy has reconnected strongly with the African diaspora, especially in the Americas and the Caribbean, strengthening spiritual and ancestral bonds. For many Yoruba at home and in diaspora, his reign embodies a renewed pride, dignity, and hope, suggesting a future where tradition and progress walk hand-in-hand.

    As part of his vision, he initiated the creation of the House of Oduduwa Foundation, through which many of his social, cultural, and development projects are channelled. Ooni Ogunwusi has placed youth and women empowerment at the centre of his reign. Through various programmes under his foundation, he has provided training and support for artisans, craftsmen and women, entrepreneurs, and the less privileged.

    Through empowerment schemes, often targeting widows, poor families, or disadvantaged youth, he has promoted social inclusion, dignity, and economic opportunities.

    Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a unifier, peacemaker, and bridge-builder, not only among Yoruba sub-groups but also across Nigeria’s complex ethnic and religious divides. One of his early notable acts was to heal a longstanding rift shortly after his coronation, visiting the throne of Alaafin of Oyo, symbolically ending a decades-old institutional discord between Ife and Oyo.

    The significance of Ooni Ogunwusi’s achievements lies not just in monuments or ceremonies, but in the transformation of identity, economy, and social fabric, as he has shown that traditional leadership can be a catalyst for modern development, not just symbolic.

  • JDPC Ibadan plans free medical outreach, others in Agodi Correctional Centre

    JDPC Ibadan plans free medical outreach, others in Agodi Correctional Centre

    Inmates in Agodi Correctional Centre, Ibadan on 24th December 2025 will enjoy free comprehensive Christmas medical outreach by Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC) Ibadan.

    The event is aimed at promoting health and well-being of inmates, which is part of JDPC’s long-standing commitment to human dignity and social justice.

    Aside free medical outreach, the inmates will also get cooked meals, spiritual encouragement, music and gift items, while fines and restitution for some inmates will also be paid. 

    A statement by the Director, JDPC Ibadan, Rev. Fr Charles Ajibaye said JDPC Ibadan for two decades has been celebrating Christmas with inmates at the Agodi facility, offering a rare moment of joy, inclusion, and hope to individuals often forgotten by society.

    He said the 2025 edition of the event marked significant expansion with inclusion of free medical screening, basic treatments, health counselling, and the distribution of essential medications.

    Ajibaye stated that the Christmas party is not merely charity event, but an expression of compassion, restoration, and solidarity with individuals in custodial environments.

    He said that the event will also host stakeholders from partner organisations, social workers, volunteers, and relevant agencies who work on justice reform, inmate welfare and rehabilitation.