The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Shina Peller celebrates Oyo at 50, hails ‘Golden Governor’ Makinde

    Shina Peller celebrates Oyo at 50, hails ‘Golden Governor’ Makinde

     In a spirited celebration of Oyo State’s 50th anniversary, the Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon. Shina Peller, has named Governor Seyi Makinde as the “Golden Governor.”

    In a statement on Friday, Peller reflected on the state’s journey since its creation from the old Western State in February 1976. 

    He lauded the “Pacesetter State” for its historical role as a beacon of excellence in politics, education, commerce, and culture.

    Also, Peller emphasized that the Golden Jubilee is a testament to the collective progress of the people across all zones, including the iconic brown roofs of Ibadan, the resource-rich Oke-Ogun, the royal plains of Oyo, and the vibrant communities of Ogbomoso and Ibarapa.

    “This Golden Jubilee celebrates our resilience, unity, and progress,” Peller stated. “Fifty years of challenges and triumphs bound by common destiny and enterprise spirit,” he added. 

    The former lawmaker noted that Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership coincides with this historic milestone, making him the “leader chosen by destiny” to usher the state into its next half-century. He cited several key achievements under the Omituntun administration as justification for the “Golden Governor” title:

    Read Also: Oyo at 50: Speaker congratulates govt, residents

    According to Peller, Makinde’s tenure has been characterised by unprecedented development, specifically highlighting key areas like infrastructure, civil service welfare, youth inclusion in governance and institutional reform.

    Speaking on infrastructure, Peller referenced the ongoing upgrade of Ibadan Airport to international status and the construction of the Circular Road to drive economic expansion.

    He lauded the consistent, timely payment of civil servants’ salaries and the historic initiation of the 13th-month bonus by the governor.

    In addition, the Oke Ogun-born businessman cum politician highlighted the youth inclusion in Makinde’s government as another noteworthy act of the governor, adding that he provided tangible opportunities for the younger generation to participate in high-level governance, creating a new generation of leaders with the OMITUNTUN initiative.

    He also commended the governor for his institutional reform, referencing his creation of robust institutions to ensure optimal performance and transparency.

    Peller maintained that through the “Omituntun” initiative, the governor has successfully jettisoned the old “promise and fail” systems of the past, replacing them with a system built on trust and delivery.

    Peller, who is out of the country in preparation for the third edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF), issued the statement from Egypt. 

    GEF maiden and second edition was held in Nigeria and Ghana respectively, while the third one will hold in Egypt November 2026.

  • Ondo seaport symbolises economic rebirth, says DOME

    Ondo seaport symbolises economic rebirth, says DOME

    The management of the International Event and Cultural Centre, The DOME, has described the proposed Ondo Seaport and Refinery projects at the Ilaje Local Government Area of the state as transformative initiatives capable of repositioning Ondo State as a major industrial and maritime hub in Nigeria.

    The management said the projects would unlock massive investments, create thousands of jobs, and significantly boost the state’s internally generated revenue.

    This came after Governor Aiyedatiwa declared that the deep seaport would be delivered before the end of his administration.

    Aiyedatiwa described the project as a game-changer for the state’s economic future.

    Recall that the seaport project was approved by the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and recently had its licence revalidated by the federal government.

    But in a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Managing Director of Cavudos Nigeria Limited, managers of The Dome, Prince Akinwunmi Falodun, the projects were described as bold and visionary steps towards economic prosperity.

    Falodun commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for what he called the administration’s passion and clarity of purpose in pursuing the realisation of the seaport and refinery, urging the government to sustain the political will required to complete them.

    Read Also: 2027: Group intensifies grassroots mobilisation in Ondo

    “The Ondo Seaport and Refinery represent more than infrastructure. They symbolise opportunity, economic rebirth and a future where Ondo State fully harnesses its coastal advantage and natural endowments for the benefit of its people,” the statement read.

    According to him, the successful delivery of the projects would open the state to global trade and investment while stimulating growth in logistics, manufacturing, hospitality, and other service sectors.

    He noted that the ripple effects would redefine the state’s role in the national economy.

    Falodun also linked the state’s 50th anniversary celebration to a forward-looking development agenda, describing the Golden Jubilee as an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to sustainable growth.

    He congratulated the government and people of the state on the milestone, describing the last five decades as a journey marked by resilience, cultural pride and steady progress.

    The Dome management further praised Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style, particularly his emphasis on partnership, institutional continuity, and confidence-building, which it said has enabled public facilities like The Dome to thrive.

    “The sustained support of the Ondo State Government has allowed The Dome to serve not merely as a structure, but as a living civic space that brings people together and reflects the aspirations of our state,” he said.

    Falodun paid tribute to the people of Ondo State, describing them as the true drivers of development through their unity and communal spirit.

    He reaffirmed The Dome’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, cultural expression, and meaningful civic engagement across the state.

    “As Ondo State looks beyond its first fifty years, visionary projects such as the seaport and refinery, pursued with consistency and integrity, will define a more prosperous future,” the statement added.

  • 2027: Group intensifies grassroots mobilisation in Ondo

    2027: Group intensifies grassroots mobilisation in Ondo

    A political support group, BTO4PBAT27 Ward Tour, has stepped up grassroots mobilisation across Ondo state, recording strong turnout in Ese-Odo and Irele Local Government Areas as it canvassed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The group, which is championing the re-election of President Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda, is being coordinated under the leadership of the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    During its visit to Igbotu in Ese-Odo Local Government Area, the state committee of the group was received by party leaders, ward coordinators, and supporters who turned out in large numbers to pledge loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Speaking at the event, the Ese-Odo Local Government Coordinator, Mr Akinyemi Adewale, expressed confidence in the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring that mobilisation efforts would be sustained across all wards in the council.

    Read Also: Tinubu condoles Chukwueze on mother’s passing

    The delegation later proceeded to Irele Town, the headquarters of Irele Local Government Area, where party stakeholders and supporters also welcomed the team.

    Addressing members, the Irele Coordinator, Mr Lebi Temidayo, commended the consistency of the group and pledged continuous engagement with party faithful at the ward level.

    Director-General of BTO4PBAT27, Ogbeni Adesuyi Adojutelegan, urged members to remain united and politically active ahead of future elections.

    He also encouraged supporters to formally register as members of the APC to strengthen the party’s grassroots structure.

    According to him, the ongoing electronic registration exercise makes it necessary for members to actively participate in the process.

    As part of efforts to support party activities, Adojutelegan announced donations of N1 million to the APC in Ese-Odo and N500,000 to the party in Irele to facilitate membership registration and other operations.

    He described members of the group in both councils as critical pillars of support for the minister and the president, noting that their loyalty and engagement would be vital to the success of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    Also speaking, the group’s Publicity Secretary, Folajimi Adewumi Gbenga, urged members to go beyond symbolic participation by holding regular ward meetings and completing their APC registration.

    The ward tour attracted large crowds of party leaders and supporters in both local governments, with many expressing optimism about the APC’s chances in future elections.

  • FUTA alumnus expands food venture, launches eatery in Akure

    FUTA alumnus expands food venture, launches eatery in Akure

    A graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Sheriff Oluyinka Omoleke, has expanded his food business with the launch of a new 24-hour Chikini Monie outlet in Akure, Ondo State, as part of efforts to deepen market penetration and meet growing demand for flexible dining services.

    The new outlet, located at Agape Junction, Akure, is positioned to serve students, residents, travellers, transporters, and night-time consumers, tapping into the city’s expanding urban economy.

    Speaking at the unveiling, Omoleke, a 2013 graduate of Forestry and Wood Technology of FUTA, said the business model was driven by demand-led expansion and job creation.

    He said his entrepreneurial journey began while he was an undergraduate, starting with a small printing business before diversifying into laundry services and later into the fast-food sector.

    The Chief Executive Officer of Chikini Monie and Abula Backyard explained that the food business formally commenced operations in October 2024, with its first outlet located at FUTA South Gate.

    According to him, the expansion strategy also includes Abula Backyard, a sister brand focused on indigenous African cuisine, introduced to broaden the company’s product offerings and strengthen brand diversification.

    “I started my business when I was a 400-level student in FUTA, and I have diversified from the printing business into a laundry service.

    When I finished my NYSC service year in Offa, I diversified into laundry, and from there, I was able to diversify into an eatery, which is the fast food business, which was on the 28th of October, 2024.

    Read Also: FUTA don seeks demystification of mathematics in schools

    “Firstly, we opened at FUTA South gate, but today we are commissioning Chikini Money, which is a branch after that, and I have also created another brand, which is Abula Backyard, the one that deals with the African cuisine,” he said.

    Omoleke disclosed that the business, which started with an initial capital of N7,000, has so far generated over 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain.

    “I have always loved to be an entrepreneur. So, being an entrepreneur has always been in my blood, and I have a passion for it. I don’t really see whether being Nigerian is safe or not. I want to do business, and I believe I’m going to thrive in the industry.

    “One of our most measurable impact indicators is job creation. To date, Chikini Monie has generated over one thousand direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain. Beyond statistics, these numbers translate to livelihoods sustained, families supported, and young people empowered with dignity and purpose.

    “In 2025, we further expanded our portfolio with the introduction of Abula Backyard Restaurant, reaffirming our commitment to indigenous cuisine, cultural identity, and strategic brand diversification,” he said. 

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Olu Ajanaku, described the venture as a strong example of youth-driven enterprise and resilience, urging policymakers to create a more enabling environment for small businesses.

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Signage and Advertisement, Mr. Yomi Oyekan also encouraged youths to pursue entrepreneurship with consistency and courage.

    The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who commissioned the outlet, commended the entrepreneur for contributing to local economic growth and job creation.

  • Firm lauds emergency responders, others after fire incident

    Firm lauds emergency responders, others after fire incident

    A firm, SAO Petroleum, has expressed appreciation to Oyo State Government, Fire Service, CBN, SweetCo, Zartec, Police, the Civil Defence Corps, the Amotekun Security Network and other security outfits as well as customers and good Samaritans who rallied support during the unfortunate fire incident in one of its retail outlets in Jericho Ibadan last Sunday.

    The firm said though it was saddened by the losses, it remained thankful no lives were lost.

    READ ALSO: Senate to hold closed-door briefing on US airstrikes in Sokoto

    A statement by the Managing Director of the firm, Adewumi Oladiti thanked volunteers and the public who helped contain the fire and offering support during the challenging period.

    “Your solidarity means a lot to us as a company.Despite this unfortunate incident, we assure our esteemed customers that this would in no way hinder our commitment to giving our very best at all times.

    “As the year progresses, rest assured that your love and loyalty to our brand would propel us to do even better.”

  • Ibadan will collaborate CRIN to establish cocoa plantation, says Olubadan

    Ibadan will collaborate CRIN to establish cocoa plantation, says Olubadan

    In his determination to ensure the economic development and investment promotion in Ibadanland, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Ladoja has assured the management of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN) that he will make acres of land available and source for the needed logistics to ensure the smooth take off of a Cocoa plantation in the ancient city.

    He gave the assurance in a remark while playing host to the management team of CRIN whom he invited to deliberate in the possibility of establishing modern cocoa plantation that can stand the test of time through the modern agricultural technologies and techniques.

    The monarch said the ancient city must take advantage of its vast land and closeness to Cocoa experts in the city to creat an ecomomy in the interest of the residents.

    Ladoja said, “I invited the management team of Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) to deliberate on how cocoa plantation can be established in Ibadan.

    Read Also: Tinubu knows how to fix Nigeria, says Olubadan

    “I am well pleased to receive you and your management staff in my palace and wish to express my gratitude for honouring my invitation.

    “I invited you and the experts in your institute to deliberate on how we can establish modern cocoa plantation that can stand the test of time through modern agricultural technologies and techniques.

    “We are lucky to be in the forest region where cocoa plantation can thrive considering our favourable climatic condition, many agricultural experts surrounding us particularly Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria 

    “On our part, we will make acres of land readily available and source for the needed logistics to ensure the smooth take off of the project to it’s successful completion.”

    Speaking earlier, the Acting Executive Director of CRIN, Dr Adedeji Rasheed thanked the Olubadan and his Council members for the opportunity given the Institute to play it’s role in agricultural development of Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.

    He noted that the agricultural plans of Olubadan of Ibadanland will be successfully implemented as desired.

    Dr Adedeji Abiodun requested for necessary logistics such as expanse of land, farm imputes and other necessary resources for the project implementation.

  • Osun APC, ALGON warn Adeleke against misleading public on LG funding crisis

    Osun APC, ALGON warn Adeleke against misleading public on LG funding crisis

    • …stop routinely subjecting Tinubu to public criticism—APC

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Osun State have cautioned Governor Ademola Adeleke against what they described as deliberate attempts to mislead the public over the ongoing local government control and funding crisis.

    They alleged that multiple court actions initiated by the Adeleke administration are the primary factor hindering the release of statutory allocations to local government councils in the state.

    The Nation recalled that the governor, in a statewide broadcast, had appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the crisis, citing the continued stay in office of what he termed “reinstated” APC local government executives whose tenure had allegedly expired, as well as the purported withholding of council funds by the Federal Government.

    However, the APC, during a press conference at its state secretariat on Wednesday, accused the governor of distorting facts surrounding the legal and administrative status of local government councils and the disbursement of federal allocations.

    Read Also: Goronyo leads mobilisation drive, rallies APC stakeholders to boost e-registration in Sokoto

    Addressing journalists, the party’s Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, said the Adeleke administration’s narrative on the crisis does not reflect the true position of the law or the prevailing administrative realities in the state.

    “The claims of Adeleke was regrettably built on misrepresentation, selective narration of facts, and a deliberate attempt to deflect responsibility for a crisis largely of his administration’s own making.”

    He said that “It is patently false to assert that the reinstated APC Chairmen and Councillors are illegally occupying Local Government secretariats. Their return to office followed clear and subsisting judicial pronouncements, most notably the judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on 10 February, 2025, which nullified the foundation upon which their earlier removal was predicated. That judgment remains valid, binding, and unappealed.”

    He added that, “It is contradictory for a governor who routinely subjects the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to public criticism to now seek presidential intervention to undermine the clear words and spirit of a Supreme Court judgment affirming local government autonomy nationwide.”

    Also, Chairman of ALGON, Hon Abiodun Idowu, berated Adeleke for maligning Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola over the local government crisis.  

    Reacting to the development, Osun State Commisssioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi cautioned Oyetola against using Federal cover to impede council administration in Osun State. 

  • LAMATA launches ‘Soro Soke’ campaign against sexual harassment on public transport

    LAMATA launches ‘Soro Soke’ campaign against sexual harassment on public transport

    The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has launched the “Soro Soke” (Speak Up) campaign to tackle sexual harassment across public transport systems in the state.

    The campaign was unveiled at a stakeholders’ engagement held at LAMATA headquarters, as part of efforts to improve commuter safety and promote a gender-inclusive transport system in Lagos.

    The engagement focused on addressing sexual harassment within informal transport spaces under EMPOWER Project 3, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and managed by the International Initiative for Impact Evaluation (3ie).

    Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, commended LAMATA for sustaining the EMPOWER programme for over five years. He stressed the need to break the culture of silence surrounding sexual harassment, urging victims and witnesses to speak up and report incidents.

    “This campaign is about creating safe spaces for all commuters, especially women. Reporting harassment is key to ending it,” he said.

    Read Also: NDDC vows to complete reclamation, road projects in Rivers

    Managing Director of LAMATA, Engr. Abimbola Akinajo, reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to sustaining the anti-sexual harassment initiative, noting that LAMATA would continue to collaborate with relevant agencies to ensure safer transport environments.

    According to her, the campaign reinforces its resolve to make public transport in Lagos safer, more inclusive and responsive, ensuring the protection and dignity of all commuters.

    Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing sexual and gender-based violence within public spaces.

  • Oyo APC urges patience over e-registration hitches, assures swift resolution

    Oyo APC urges patience over e-registration hitches, assures swift resolution

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has appealed to its members and supporters experiencing difficulties with the ongoing electronic registration exercise to remain patient, assuring that the technical challenges are being addressed by the appropriate authorities.

    Reports from the state’s 33 local government areas indicate that a significant number of party faithful—both existing and prospective members—are yet to have their personal data captured due to system-related issues affecting the registration process.

    The situation has triggered calls within the party for an extension of the registration deadline.

    However, in a statement, the state Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, said the mandatory requirement of the National Identification Number (NIN) and Permanent Voter Card (PVC) for registration was designed to ensure the integrity of the party’s membership database.

    According to him, the policy is aimed at building an accurate and reliable membership register to support strategic planning and align the party’s processes with global best practices.

    He said, “We are not unaware of some glitches in the electronic registration exercise particularly as they concern the inability of many willing party faithful and supporters to have their personal data captured as well as lack of National Identification Number (NIN) by some individuals who are willing to register as APC members. 

    “The leadership of the APC is working round the clock to resolve some of these issues before the registration deadline this Saturday.

    Read Also: Mutfwang’s defection reaffirms APC as truly national party, says Shettima

    “We have also received requests for extension of the registration deadline from many quarters across the state and we have communicated this to the National Secretariat of our great Party while we are hoping to get a favorable response as soon as possible.

    “Nonetheless, stakeholders are being charged to increase their efforts and ensure that nothing is left to chances. The E-regisration is a serious exercise and Oyo state chapter of the Party cannot afford to lag behind.

    “As a matter of fact, old members and leaders who fail to register in the ongoing exercise would cease to be reckoned with in the scheme of things as we warm up for the congresses and party primaries in the build up to the next general elections. 

    “We are on top of the situation even as we encourage party faithful and supporters to reach out to the State Secretariat at Oke-Ado to report any challenges in their locality for prompt actions.”

  • Obasa, Tinubu-Ojo announce fundraising art exhibition for BATCAV

    Obasa, Tinubu-Ojo announce fundraising art exhibition for BATCAV

    The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, in collaboration with the Grand Host, Dr. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, has unveiled plans for a major fundraising art exhibition to support the establishment of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Centre for Arts and Vocations (BATCAV).

    The announcement was made on Tuesday at a press conference in Lagos, where stakeholders revealed details of the exhibition, scheduled for Thursday, February 5, at the Muson Centre, Victoria Island. The event will be curated by Artifact Galleries.

    BATCAV is envisioned as a national institution aimed at empowering more than 100,000 Nigerians through arts, crafts, and vocational training, while strengthening the country’s creative economy and preserving its cultural heritage.

    Addressing journalists, Obasa, who serves as the Official Host of the event, described the initiative as a strategic investment in youth empowerment and Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. He said the Centre would connect talent development with enterprise, enhance cultural preservation, and position Nigeria as a leading force in Africa’s creative industry.

    In her remarks, Dr. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo подчерк emphasized the broader national significance of the exhibition, noting that the initiative goes beyond showcasing art to driving long-term social and economic impact.

    “This is not merely an art event, but a collective commitment to legacy, opportunity, and the preservation of our cultural memory,” she said.

    She called on leaders, institutions, and philanthropists to rally behind the project to build a Centre that will serve future generations.

    The Event Chairman and Foundation Patron, Dr. Abbey Onas, reaffirmed his full support for the initiative, highlighting BATCAV’s practical and sustainable framework.

    According to him, the Centre will not only train participants but also link graduates with financial institutions to access start-up capital immediately after training, creating a direct pathway from skill acquisition to sustainable livelihoods.

    Read Also: Yuletide: Agege residents hail Obasa over 50% rebate sales

    Also acknowledged at the press conference was Otunba Muraina Olatunji Banjoko, the Major Supporter of the exhibition. Organisers noted that his backing has been instrumental in advancing preparations and mobilising key strategic partnerships for the event.

    The fundraising exhibition will feature the unveiling of hyper-realistic portrait paintings of prominent Nigerians, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; all state governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory; selected senators and members of the House of Representatives; the Ooni of Ife and his wives; as well as notable business and public figures such as Rasaq Okoya, Folashade Okoya, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Seyi Tinubu, Layal Tinubu, Olu Okeowo, Lady Adejoke Okeowo, Esther Ajayi, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe, among others.

    According to the organisers, BATCAV’s objectives include training over 100,000 Nigerians in arts and vocational skills; housing 1,000 portrait paintings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to document his journey from senator to president; preserving 5,000 artworks by Nigerian artists across all states; and showcasing 4,000 artworks by artists from across Africa, thereby positioning Nigeria as a continental cultural hub.

    The organisers further call on corporate organisations, cultural institutions, and members of the public to participate in the exhibition and support the establishment of BATCAV, which they described as “a living archive, a training ground, and a launchpad for the future of African creativity.”