The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Adeleke submits N705b proposed 2026 budget to Osun Assembly

    Adeleke submits N705b proposed 2026 budget to Osun Assembly

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke yesterday presented a budget proposal of N705.794 billion for 2026 before the House of Assembly for approval.

    The governor, accompanied by some members of the State Executive Council (Exco), christened the proposed appropriation “The Budget of Economic Transformation.”

    Its Capital Expenditure covers 55 per cent, and the Recurrent Expenditure is 45 per cent of the total.

    Adeleke said the 2025 budget recorded a remarkable milestone in its implementation, promising that the 2026 budget will build on the achievements of the last three years since he assumed office.

    Giving a breakdown of the  2026 budget proposal, the governor said: “The total revenue consists of recurrent revenue, where government share of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) is N221,680,000,000.00 and independent revenue is N199,573,229,320.00.

    “The other receipts are: N268,348,518,860.00.

    “The expenditure comprises recurrent expenditure of N317,414,353,350.00, which is 45 per cent of the total budget.

    “The recurrent expenditure is divided into personnel cost of N135,005,722,430.00. and the overhead cost of N182,408,630,920.00 consisting of salaries and allowances as well as pensions and gratuities. The capital expenditure has N388,379,695,320.00, which is 55 per cent of the total budget.

    “The 2026 budget proposal is prepared on the projection of the 2026 – 2028 Medium–Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as required by the Osun State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2012.”

    Adeleke recalled that before he assumed office, the state’s infrastructure level was declining, but has improved since he assumed office.

    Read Also: Fed Govt closes skills gap with talent initiative

    The governor announced that over 300 kilometres of roads spread across the three senatorial districts have been constructed with flyovers to enhance smooth movement of vehicles and decongestion of bottleneck road junctions.

    House of Assembly Speaker Adewale Egbedun hailed the governor for his transparency, prudence, and accountability in the management of state’s finances and resources.

    He sought the support of the legislature for the executive in the running of the state.

    Mutfwang presents N914.8b proposal

    Also, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang yesterday presented an Appropriation Bill of N914.8 billion to the State House of Assembly for the 2026 fiscal year.

    The governor, who tagged the Appropriation Bill the “Budget of Consolidation and Sustainability 2.0,” said more emphasis would be placed on implementing people-oriented projects and programmes in the state.

    He explained that N341.4 billion of the budget, representing 37.3 per cent, would go into capital expenditure, while the recurrent expenditure would gulp N573.5 billion, representing 62.7 per cent.

    “Mr. Speaker, it is my singular honour and privilege to present to this House the 2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework/Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) alongside the 2026 proposed budget estimate for your consideration and approval.

    “The total budget shows an increase of N306.7 billion over the approved 2025 budget.

    “I have always stated that the desire and passion of the current administration under my leadership is to serve the people of Plateau sincerely and without any compromise.

    “Our aim as a government is to address the current difficulties faced by citizens and insecurity in collaboration with the security operatives assigned to maintain law and order in the state,” he said.

    Mutfwang promised that his administration would not lose track but strive towards building upon the state’s Strategic Development Framework (PSDF) of 2023–2027.

    House of Assembly Speaker Na’anlong Daniel hailed the governor for presenting the budget within a record time.

    Daniel promised to scrutinise and ensure speedy passage of the Appropriation Bill into law.

    Re

  • Ogun targets N500b IGR for 2026 budget

    Ogun targets N500b IGR for 2026 budget

    The Ogun State government has said it is targeting to generate N500 billion through Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to finance the 2026 budget.

    Governor Dapo Abiodun announced this during the treasury board meeting on the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2026 budget proposal at the Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

    The governor noted that as Nigeria’s industrial hub, Ogun State would leverage its strategic proximity to Lagos State — the nation’s largest economy — and its vast landmass of over 16,000 square kilometres to achieve the target.

    “This state has no business generating less than N500 billion a year, and that has to be our target,” Abiodun said.

    “By the time we are leaving in 2027, Ogun State’s revenue should rise to about N750 billion. That is what ambition looks and feels like.”

    He urged the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) to contribute N250 billion of the total target.

    Abiodun said other key revenue-generating agencies, such as the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC), the Bureau of Lands, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Housing, would need to scale up their revenue-generating efforts.

    The governor stressed that every Ministry, Department and Agency (MDA) has a critical role to play in achieving the goal, describing them as “pieces of a jigsaw that must fit together to complete the bigger picture”.

    Read Also: Fed Govt closes skills gap with talent initiative

    He added: “Our comparative advantage was not fully harnessed by previous administrations. Our strength lies in providing what Lagos cannot offer. I expect every MDA to prepare an ambitious budget — aim for the stars, and if we miss, we’ll at least land on the moon.”

    Abiodun urged the state’s agencies to adopt creativity and innovation in their revenue drive, commending those that have achieved commendable results.

    On the deplorable condition of Kara, near Isheri,

    Abiodun reiterated his administration’s commitment to urban renewal.

    The governor promised that his administration would soon clear and develop Kara, near Isheri, linking the state to Lagos.

    “The new Ogun State cannot allow that place to continue to wear that look. You cannot be entering the new Ogun State and what you see first is an eyesore. There is no better time to act than now. We can’t leave it as an albatross for the next administration,” he added.

  • Oyebanji hails Tinubu for approving Itawure-Aramoko-Ado, Aramoko-Ijero-Ifaki roads construction

    Oyebanji hails Tinubu for approving Itawure-Aramoko-Ado, Aramoko-Ijero-Ifaki roads construction

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving the inclusion of the Itawure–Aramoko–Ado Ekiti and Aramoko–Ijero–Ifaki Ekiti road projects in the 2026 Federal Government budget.

    The approval was conveyed in a letter from the Office of the President to the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, with a copy sent to Governor Oyebanji.

    The development followed the recent visit of Governor Oyebanji and the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Sunday, November 9, 2025, where the poor state of federal roads in Ekiti was a major topic of discussion.

    Reacting to the development, Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, described the approval as a major relief for commuters plying the routes.

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    The governor stated that the construction of the two roads would enhance connectivity, stimulate trade, and open up the state to greater economic opportunities.

    “This gesture reflects President Tinubu’s deep commitment to equitable infrastructure development and his resolve to ensure that no part of the country is left behind,” the Governor said.

    The governor noted that despite public concern and misinformation over the state of some federal roads, the Tinubu-led administration had already awarded contracts for the rehabilitation of three major roads in Ekiti, with contractors mobilised to the site.

    He also recalled that his administration had reconstructed the Ado–Iworoko–Ifaki road and executed numerous inter-city and intra-city road projects within the past three years, underscoring the state government’s determination to improve infrastructure.

    He emphasised that the newly approved roads would ease transportation challenges, reduce travel time, and facilitate the movement of goods and services across Ekiti and neighbouring states in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the state’s Shared Prosperity Vision.

    While thanking the President on behalf of the people of Ekiti State, Oyebanji lauded his “strategic and compassionate leadership,” saying the President’s support continues to reflect in various development projects across the state.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of citizens and assured that Ekiti would continue to partner with the Federal Government, development agencies, and the private sector to drive sustainable growth and infrastructure renewal.

  • Akure Airport denies ‘bandits invasion’ as police boss directs maximum protection of facility

    Akure Airport denies ‘bandits invasion’ as police boss directs maximum protection of facility

    The management of Akure Airport in Oba Ile Local Government Area of Ondo State has denied reports alleging that bandits invaded the facility.

    The clarification followed rumours circulating on social media claiming that suspected bandits had infiltrated the local airport and were planning to wreak havoc.

    The development sparked anxiety among residents and air travellers using the airport.

    Recall that the Akure Airport – now known as Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu Airport – was among the 15 airports renamed by the federal government two years ago.

    Speaking on Wednesday, the Airport Manager, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Adebiyi, assured residents and air travellers that the facility remains safe and secure.

    Adebiyi, who spoke during the visit of the State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, on a fact-finding mission to the airport, described the claim of a bandits’ invasion as false and misleading.

    She added that no incidents of banditry have been recorded at the airport, reiterating that passenger safety remains a top priority.

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    “We wish to assure travellers and residents that Olumuyiwa Bernard Aliu Airport is fully secure. The viral post is unfounded, and operations continue as normal,” the airport manager said.

    However, Mrs. Adebiyi clarified that the airport’s main security concern has been the incursion of herders and cattle into restricted operational areas.

    Flanked by the Airport Chief of Security (ACoS) of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Akure Chapter, Benneth Iwuchukwu, she commended the cooperation of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Oba-Ile Division in maintaining airport security.

    In his remarks, CP Lawal said the police remain on guard and will continue to protect the facility, as well as the lives and property of citizens in the state.

    He also directed the DPO and airport officials to hold a meeting with leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to forestall future encroachments.

    The Commissioner of Police later inspected the airport’s perimeter fence, identifying points where herders had previously gained unauthorised access.

  • Adeleke submits N705bn 2026 budgets before Osun Assembly

    Adeleke submits N705bn 2026 budgets before Osun Assembly

    The Osun state governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Wednesday presented the N705.794bn 2026 budget before the House of Assembly for approval.

    Adeleke, who was accompanied by some members of his cabinet, submitted the budget christened the budget of economic transformation, in which capital expenditure covers 55% and recurrent expenditure covers 45%.

    He boasted that the 2025 budget recorded a remarkable milestone in its implementation, and added that the 2026 budget builds on the achievements of the last three years since he assumed office.

    Giving the detail of the 2026 budget, Adeleke stated, “The total Revenue consists of Recurrent Revenue, where Government Share of FAAC is Two Hundred and Twenty-One Billion, Six Hundred and Eighty Million Naira (₦221,680,000,000.00) and Independent Revenue is One Hundred and Ninety-Nine Billion, Five Hundred and Seventy-Three Million, Two Hundred and Twenty-Nine Thousand, three Hundred and Twenty Naira (₦199,573,229,320.00).

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    “The other receipts are Two Hundred and Sixty-Eight Billion, Three Hundred and Forty-Eight Million, Five Hundred and Eighteen Thousand, Eight Hundred and Sixty Naira (₦268,348,518,860.00).”

    He noted, “The Expenditure comprises Recurrent Expenditure of Three Hundred and Seventeen Billion, Four Hundred and Fourteen Million, Three Hundred and Fifty-Three Thousand, Three Hundred and Fifty Naira (₦317,414,353,350.00), which is 45% of the total budget.

    “Recurrent Expenditure is divided into Personnel Cost of ₦135,005,722,430.00, and Overhead Cost of ₦182,408,630,920.00 made up of Salaries and Allowances as well as Pensions and Gratuities. The Capital Expenditure has the total sum of ₦388,379,695,320.00, which is 55% of the total budget.

    “The 2026 Budget Proposal is prepared on the projection of the 2026 – 2028 Medium–Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as required by the Osun State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2012”, the governor noted.

    Adeleke held that before he assumed office, the infrastructure development was declining, but since he came on board, his government has improved the deficit.

    He highlighted that over 300km of roads spread across the three senatorial districts have been constructed with flyovers to enhance the smooth movement of vehicles and decongestion of bottleneck road junctions.

    The Speaker of the Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, lauded the governor for his transparency, prudence, and accountability in the management of state finance and resources, pleading for the support of the legislature for the executive arm in the running of the state.

    “The implementation of previous budgets, particularly the 2024 and 2025 plans, has produced measurable outcomes in infrastructure, education, healthcare, social inclusion, and workers’ welfare. These successes are evidence of a government determined to turn policy into tangible benefits for the people.”

  • Ibadan Circular Road Corridor: Makinde talks tough, warns protesters

    Ibadan Circular Road Corridor: Makinde talks tough, warns protesters

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has broken his silence over the ongoing protests by the residents affected by the proposed 500m Corridor of the Ibadan Circular Road project.

    The Nation reports that, in the last three days, the residents have been reporting to the State Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan entrance gate, in their thousands, carrying placards and singing solidarity songs to express their displeasure and rejection of the corridor project.

    The protesters who daily assemble and lay siege to the Secretariat gate have refused all persuasion but insisted on only being addressed by the Governor, with a vow not to stop the protest until the Governor attends to them in person.

    However, the governor, in what could be described as a shocker, on Wednesday said he will not address the protesters at the scene of the protest.

    Rather, he said he asked those affected by the project to meet him at the circular road for discussion, insisting those protesting are not the real owners but are being sponsored.

    Makinde spoke at the ongoing commissioning of the Ibadan Central Bus Terminal at Iwo Road.

    The event is having in attendance former President Olusegun Obasanjo, top PDP chieftains, among others.

    READ ALSO; FG pays N18bn insurance to boost troops’ welfare

    According to Makinde, the Ibadan Circular Road project has been ongoing for many decades, and the need to extend the land was for economic purposes and not personal.

    He alleged that those protesting over the planned demolition of their houses along the Ibadan circular road were being sponsored by the opposition.

    He said the protest could have entered its third day if they were not getting funds from somewhere.

    The governor insisted that he would not address the protesters on the road but that “I will come and see the real owners of the land at the circular road.”

    The governor noted that, in the course of the protest, he had been called many unprintable names and many unpalatable words said against him.

    Particularly, the governor said the protesters have called and labelled him a land grabber, thief and other unprintable words.

    He challenged anyone who has evidence that he is a beneficiary of the land extension for the circular road project to come forward, adding that the 500-meter extension was for economic purposes and in the best interest of the state.

  • FRC boss Olowo ends tenure as UNCTAD-ISAR chair

    FRC boss Olowo ends tenure as UNCTAD-ISAR chair

    The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC), Dr. Rabiu Olowo, on Wednesday, 12 November 2025, formally concluded his tenure as chair of the 41st Session of the United Nations Intergovernmental Working Group of Experts on International Standards of Accounting and Reporting (ISAR) at the United Nations Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland.

    Olowo left a legacy of global impact at the UN body as Nigeria once again affirmed its leadership in advancing global financial and sustainability reporting standards.

    The ceremony, which was marked by the conduct of the elections and formal handover of the ISAR chairmanship, constituted the conclusion of a record milestone of remarkable achievements by the FRC boss.

    Olowo was in November 2024, elected as the Chair of the 41st session of the UNCTAD-ISAR. 

    The prestigious appointment was a testament to Olowo’s exceptional leadership and expertise in corporate reporting, which he had used in transforming and repositioning the FRC.

    His emergence and successful tenure as Chair of UNCTAD-ISAR was a historic milestone of leadership at that level of global corporate reporting discourse.

    In his speech at the opening of the 42nd Session of ISAR in Geneva, Switzerland on Wednesday, Olowo, expressed appreciation to the Secretary-General of UNCTAD, Ms. Rebeca Grynspan, the ISAR Secretariat, and all Member States for their continued commitment to advancing high-quality, transparent, and decision-useful financial and sustainability reporting across jurisdictions, highlighted the achievements of the global body under his leadership.

    He said his tenure as chair of ISAR-41, was a privilege.

    Olowo explained, “Over the past one year, our collective efforts were guided by two central priorities: Advancing the harmonization and practical implementation of sustainability reporting, assurance, and ethical standards; and Supporting the integration of financial and sustainability reporting through digitalization.

    “These priorities reflect our shared commitment to strengthening market trust, enhancing accountability, and supporting sustainable development. The past year has demonstrated what is possible when countries, institutions, and experts work together with a unified sense of purpose.”

    Listing his key achievements, he stated: “Advancing Harmonization of Sustainability Reporting Frameworks: ISAR-41 significantly deepened the global dialogue on interoperability among sustainability reporting frameworks, including the ISSB Standards and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).

    “Strengthened collaboration with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants also reinforced the ethical foundations that underpin credible sustainability assurance. Together, these efforts reduced fragmentation and improved consistency in global reporting practice. 

    “Strengthening Assurance and Ethical Standards: Regional and global consultative engagements, including the Africa Regional Partnership–IESBA dialogue in May 2025 and the IPSASB consultative meeting on climate-related disclosures, supported the development of high-quality, independent sustainability assurance practices.

    “These initiatives enhanced user confidence and promoted integrity in sustainability information.

    “Promoting Digital Integration in Reporting: ISAR-41 further recognized digitalization as a vital enabler of integrated reporting. The expanded use of the UNCTAD Sustainability Reporting Taxonomy and structured, machine-readable formats is improving the accessibility, comparability, and analytical value of reported information—strengthening evidence-based decision-making across public and private sectors.”

    Others include Strengthening Linkages with the United Nations System through ECOSOC:

    “I also had the distinct honour of representing ISAR at the February 2025 Coordination Segment of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. In addition to contributing to the policy dialogue, I engaged with the UN Financing for Sustainable Development Office and held consultations with diplomats from various Member States.

    “The discussions focused on advancing coordinated, inclusive, science-based and evidence-driven solutions to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda; promoting coherence in sustainability reporting within broader UN development frameworks; and supporting integrated approaches to financing, partnerships, and capacity-building.

    “These engagements reinforced ISAR’s role in informing high-level policy guidance across the UN system.”

    In the aspect of Expanding and Institutionalizing Regional Partnerships, Olowo stated that, “During 2025, ISAR’s Regional Partnerships continued to mature into coordinated platforms that support peer learning, knowledge sharing, and sustained capacity-building across regions.

    “Across Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eurasia, and the Gulf, countries advanced the practical implementation of sustainability and corporate reporting practices through technical workshops, capacity-building initiatives, and efforts to align with global standards.

    Commendation of the ISAR Secretariat

    “I wish to acknowledge the professionalism and strategic leadership of the ISAR Secretariat. Their analytical rigor, coordination, and technical expertise continue to ensure that ISAR remains a credible, respected, and globally relevant forum.

    “The Continuing Relevance of ISAR

    At a time of global environmental stress, economic uncertainty, and heightening stakeholder expectations, the relevance of ISAR’s work is more essential than ever. Robust reporting is not merely a compliance obligation—it is a foundation for trust, fair markets, responsible investment, and sustainable development.”

    Dr. Olowo pointed out that as part of the agenda before the 42nd session, building on the extensive deliberations and outcomes of the 41st Session, the 42nd Session has been structured to advance two key thematic priorities that emerged from those engagements, which include, “review of developments in the harmonization of sustainability reporting requirements and their practical implementation – to review progress, enhance comparability, and support effective application across jurisdictions.

    “Integrating biodiversity and human capital considerations into sustainability reporting – recognising their importance to long-term value creation and the need for clearer reflection in reporting frameworks.

    “These discussions reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing coherent, high-quality, and decision-useful sustainability reporting.”

    In conclusion, Olowo noted that, “ the achievements of the past year were made possible through partnership, shared purpose, and collective resolve.

    “I am grateful for the trust placed in me to serve as Chair, and I remain confident that the work undertaken here will continue to shape a more transparent, accountable, and sustainable global economy.

    “As we begin this Session, let us move forward with clarity, unity, and commitment—knowing that the decisions we shape here contribute to the integrity of global financial systems and to the well-being of societies everywhere.”

    Indeed, Olowo’s exemplary performance not only elevated Nigeria’s visibility within the United Nations system but also demonstrated the country’s capacity for thought leadership in financial and sustainability reporting.

    By delivering excellent results and upholding the highest standards of professionalism, younger professionals can aspire to and excel in similar international roles, reinforcing the message that competence, integrity, and dedication can position Nigeria prominently on the global stage.

  • Abiodun: Ibara GRA project on course

    Abiodun: Ibara GRA project on course

    The urban regeneration scheme of the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration in Ogun State is progressing, with the completion of over 150 houses out of more than 200 planned for Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Abeokuta, the state capital.

    Speaking after inspecting the houses, Governor Abiodun said his administration would ensure Abeokuta had modern houses that befitted its status as the state capital.

    Abiodun, who described the former condition of the GRA as an eyesore, noted that the dilapidated structures, apart from serving as a haven for criminals, were occupied illegally by people who made use of the buildings as their personal properties.

    He said: “Sometime in March, having held different town hall meetings and consultations with those that were living here, most of whom were illegal inhabitants—some as a matter of fact were illegal and turned themselves into landlords, renting out spaces to people illegally.

    “But, nonetheless, because it was not our desire to make people homeless, we discussed with them, we agreed on different terms and we managed to do what previous administrations either did not envision or have the foresight to do, or did not have the political will to achieve.

    “We were able to convince people that the future is here and now and Ogun State capital cannot be looking like what it was looking like, particularly the highbrow area called the GRA in Abeokuta. So in March, we began to clean up this place, and began to demolish and implement the regeneration scheme.

    “In all, we have what we planned, about 213 to 220 houses that are earmarked to be built here, either directly by the state government, Ministry of Housing, or by allocation to others to build in line with stipulated designs.

    “To date, we have about 150 houses already built, others at different stages of completion and this is just the beginning.”

    He said similar regeneration project would be carried out in other GRAs across the state to provide modern houses for the people of the state.

    Read Also: ‘Save us from land grabbers, thugs, residents beg Governor Abiodun

    “Let me assure you, this level of development is not situated just in Ogun Central. As we are building and generating in Ogun Central and Abeokuta, we’ve done the same in Yewa, we have affordable housing units in Ilaro.

    “Kobape has almost 600 houses and still counting. In Sagamu, we have other affordable housing scheme in Sagamu and Iperu of course, leading to the airport and in Ijebu-Ode,” he added.

    He stated that his administration would not take its eyes off its set goals by being distracted by frustrated individuals, noting that while they had the opportunity, they failed to do exactly what his government is doing due to lack of foresight or not understanding what was required of them.

    “We are doing what we promised the people of Ogun State that entrusted their mandate to us and to them we remain accountable. Not to the few faceless Facebook, faceless Twitter sponsored media; we are not accountable to those few people.

    “I am throwing a challenge to my detractors and opponents, I stand to be corrected, if we have not constructed more roads in six years than anybody else has constructed in a 16 year period, I think that is enough to reply those that are sponsoring faceless videos and negative narratives on social media,” he concluded.

  • Residents celebrate as Edo governor inspects signature projects

    Residents celebrate as Edo governor inspects signature projects

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo yesterday continued his one-year anniversary tour of key infrastructure projects across the state, especially in Southern Senatorial District.

    The inspection drew jubilant crowds and widespread celebration, as residents thronged the streets to hail what many described as a new dawn of purposeful leadership and development.

    From the newly renovated Army Day Secondary School at Ikpoba Hill, to the fast-rising Adesuwa Junction Flyover and the 8.23-kilometre Okpagha–Amufi Road, the governor’s convoy was met with excitement, dancing and cheers, as communities came alive in spontaneous celebration of his achievements within just one year in office.

    At Army Day Secondary School, students in crisp uniforms waved flags and sang songs of praise as they welcomed the governor. Teachers, parents and residents held placards with inscriptions such as “Okpebholo, the Hope Restorer!” and “Edo is Shining Again!”, a reflection of the renewed optimism sweeping through the state.

    Governor Okpebholo, visibly moved by the transformation of the once-dilapidated school, expressed deep satisfaction about the quality of work done.

    “When we came here last time, I was unhappy. There were no roofs, no windows, and no proper learning environment. Today, we have air-conditioned laboratories, renovated classrooms and a secured perimeter. This is what true change looks like,” he said.

    The governor announced plans to install solar-powered streetlights across the school premises to enhance security and provide an enabling environment for students to study at night.

    Read Also: ‘Okpebholo has reset Edo’s growth engine’

    He credited the success of such interventions to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which, he said, continued to inspire his administration’s focus on people-centred governance.

    Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, described the project as “a total rewrite of the story,” noting that the school, once abandoned and unsafe, has now become a model for public education in Edo.

    “Children used to clean their own classrooms before learning could begin. The governor has changed that reality and restored dignity to education in Edo State,” he said.

    A Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Otunba Segun Sowunmi, lauded the governor’s leadership style and vision, remarking that “every investment in education is an investment in human capital. If this is what one year looks like, then the future of Edo under Okpebholo is bright indeed.”

    Dr. Oduwale Egwaigie, chairman of the School Management Development Committee and an old student, recounted the school’s years of neglect, describing the governor’s swift intervention as “nothing short of historic.”

    According to him, “for eight years, we pleaded for help to no avail. But this governor acted within weeks. Parents are now transferring their children from private schools to Army Day. That says it all.”

    From Ikpoba Hill, the governor’s entourage proceeded to Adesuwa Junction, where construction work on the state’s second flyover bridge is advancing rapidly. Excited residents lined the streets, chanting and waving as the governor inspected progress at the site.

    Special Adviser on Project Monitoring, Phoebe Williams-Bello, said the flyover was on track for early completion, six months ahead of schedule.

    Williams-Bello, an engineer, said affected property owners had been fully compensated and commended the governor for his commitment to infrastructural renewal.

    “The people can see the progress. This is not a promise on paper, it is tangible development taking shape before our eyes,” she said.

    At the 8.23-kilometre Okpagha–Amufi Road, residents erupted in joy as the governor’s convoy arrived. Dancing and singing, they celebrated the long-awaited project, which links Ikpoba-Okha and Uhunmwonde local governments, opening access to markets, schools and rural communities.

    A community leader, beaming with excitement, said: “For years, this road was a nightmare. Today, we can drive freely. Governor Okpebholo has restored our faith in government.”

    The inspection tour ended in a carnival-like atmosphere, as traders, artisans and students flooded the streets, waving banners and chanting songs of appreciation.

    For many, the day symbolised not just an anniversary of leadership, but also a celebration of progress, hope and the rebirth of Edo State under a governor who has matched words with action.

  • Lagos sensitises Corps members on emergency

    Lagos sensitises Corps members on emergency

    • By Tokunbo Ogunsami

    Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, has organised Year 2025 vocational training, security, safety and emergency preparedness for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, to equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to cope in all situations.

    In his keynote address at the maiden edition of the programme held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium yesterday, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Ogunlende, said: “The initiative reflects government’s commitment to youth development. It is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to youth development.”

    Read Also: Peace Corps faults Trump’s military threat

    Permanent Secretary, Mrs Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, assured the participants that the ministry would make the programme an annual one, to enable Corps members have awareness of everything that would make their service year worthwhile.

    NYSC Coordinator, Mrs Christiana Salmwang, lauded the state government for prioritising corps members’ welfare and security.

    Representatives of Rapid Response Squad, Command and Control Centre, Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and Lagos State Aids Control Agency took the participants through sessions of presentations to equip them with knowledge and skills in security awareness and safety preparedness.