The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Alaafin appoints new Chief Imam for Oyo land

    Alaafin appoints new Chief Imam for Oyo land

    The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has appointed Alhaji Bilaal Oseni Akinola as the new Chief Imam of Oyo land.

    The development is contained in a release by the Director of Media and Publicity to the monarch, Bode Durojaiye.

    He said a letter of appointment personally signed by the Alaafin has been presented to the new Imam, adding that “Oba Owoade heartily rejoiced for Allah’s mercy and lesson which he has bestowed on the new Chief Imam by making him a respectable Islamic leader in Oyo.”

    READ ALSO: Tinubu unstoppable in 2027, says Orji Kalu

    According to the Alaafin, “Having passed through the duly screening test, I have the pleasure to inform you that you have been selected by me as the new Chief Imam of Oyo.

    “The moment is not only significant for our people, but also sacred in the eyes of Allah, for leadership in Islam is a truth that demands humility, sincerity, and justice”, the appointment letter reads in part.

  • AfDB hails Ekiti over payment of N1.45bn compensation to landowners

    AfDB hails Ekiti over payment of N1.45bn compensation to landowners

    The African Development Bank (AfDB) has commended the Ekiti State Government for what it described as the transparent and timely payment of N1.45 billion in compensation to 195 landowners affected by the land acquisition for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ) project.

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji in June approved the compensation following a comprehensive valuation exercise conducted in line with current market rates and the 2022 enumeration of lands, economic trees, and assets across the project site.

    The Ekiti Knowledge Zone, spanning about 208 hectares across Ago-Araromi and Ijan-Ekiti, is  a modern smart city designed to drive innovation, ICT training, research and knowledge-based enterprise development.

    The AfDB’s commendation came after a verification visit by a team of its officials, led by Dr. Mohammed Hamadina, the Bank’s Social Safeguard Specialist, and Mr. Uzoma Okoroafor, Environmental Safeguard Expert. 

    The team visited affected communities to confirm that all Project Affected Persons had been duly compensated in line with the African Development Bank’s Involuntary Resettlement Policy, which guarantees fairness, inclusion, and full payment to all affected individuals.

    READ ALSO: Tinubu unstoppable in 2027, says Orji Kalu

    Speaking during the visit, Dr. Hamadina confirmed that all affected persons had received payment based on the valuation of their land and economic assets captured during the 2022 assessment.

    He expressed the  Bank’s satisfaction with the thoroughness, fairness, and transparency of the process, noting the state government had not only complied with AFDB’s safeguard standards but also demonstrated genuine sensitivity to the needs and welfare of the affected communities.

    Hamadina added that the step by step approach adopted by the government from the enumeration to valuation and eventual payment reflected a model of accountability and inclusiveness that other states could emulate in executing development-oriented projects.

    “AfDB is a development-focused institution. Any individual who loses property or livelihood to an AfDB-backed project must be adequately compensated in a way that uplifts and does not disadvantage them.

    “What we have seen here in Ekiti shows transparency, fairness, and commitment to community welfare. AFDB’s priority is to ensure that every intervention improves lives and strengthens trust in governance,” he said.

    Okoroafor said the Knowledge Zone project was conceived to empower people and accelerate the state’s economic transformation, adding that the exercise reinforced the Bank’s confidence in Ekiti’s approach to inclusive development.

    “This project is about the people. It is designed to serve as a model for innovation and sustainable growth. What we have witnessed in the compensation process demonstrates accountability and fairness,” he added.

    Technical Adviser to the Governor on Green Economy, Ecological Matters and Climate Change, Dr. Akinyemi Akinyugha, described the verification exercise as a vital step toward ensuring transparency and accountability.

    “This process confirms our administration’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, and due process. The Ekiti Knowledge Zone is now in its infrastructure development phase, and every affected person has been carried along,” Akinyugha said.

    He thanked the AfDB for its diligence and appreciated the cooperation of the host communities, assuring that the state would continue to maintain open engagement with all stakeholders.

    Chairman of Ago-Araromi Community Mr. Ojo Bankole, lauded both the AfDB and the Ekiti state government for their transparency and accountability,pledging continuous community support for the project.

    Another beneficiary, Mr. Aduloju Ayodeji, described the process as “open, fair, and professionally handled,” noting that it had boosted confidence in the state government’s handling of major development projects.

  • The Criterion Eko Akete 2025 conference opens Wednesday

    The Criterion Eko Akete 2025 conference opens Wednesday

    The 13th edition of the  National and 4th International Conference of The Criterion, tagged “Eko Akete 2025” opens Wednesday November 13 at Orchid Hotel, Lekki by 10:00 a.m.

    This year’s conference with the theme: “Breaking the glass ceiling: Muslim women overcoming economic and social challenges,” will convene leading voices, thought leaders, policymakers, scholars and industry professionals to examine the barriers limiting women’s advancement and to chart actionable pathways for empowering Muslim women to thrive globally.

    Chairman, National Conference Planning Committee (NCPC), Hajia Ibironke Siddqah Ogun (FNVS), emphasised that the Eko Akete 2025 conference will provide participants with practical skills, mentorship opportunities, and exposure to global best practices that will support women in scaling professional and entrepreneurial frontiers.

    “We aim to inspire, equip, and connect Muslim women with the resources, networks, and confidence needed to rise beyond limitations. The Criterion has remained consistent in nurturing women of integrity, influence, and impact—this conference reinforces that mission,” Hajia Ogun noted.

    The Chief Host of the conference and the International Amirah of the Conference, Alhaja Medina Akanni, described the conference as “a timely platform for reflection, reawakening, and re-strategising to strengthen the role of Muslim women in nation-building and global development.”

    Akanni, who is also the Deputy Registrar of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, added:“At a time when economic pressure, social stereotypes, and workplace limitations continue to restrict women’s potential, this conference serves as a beacon of hope and a rallying point for women determined to break barriers while upholding Islamic values.”

    Designed to address the concerns of all Muslim ladies across different socio-economic strata, the conference will feature keynote addresses by renowned female leaders and scholars; panel sessions with diverse professionals across sectors; masterclasses on leadership, business scaling, technology, finance, and work-life integration; interactive sessions, exhibitions, and networking opportunities as well as spiritual reflections and value-based mentoring sessions

    The Criterion was  founded as a platform for Muslim women committed to personal development, professional excellence, community service, and Islamic ethics, 

    The Criterion (Al-Furqan) has consistently advanced the empowerment of women through education, advocacy, humanitarian initiatives, capacity development, and faith-based leadership training.

    With active Usrah branches or local cells across Nigeria and growing international presence, the association continues to influence policies, inspire future leaders, and nurture women who uphold moral uprightness while excelling in diverse fields.

  • Sanwo-Olu to deliver Arewa Think  Tank lecture today

    Sanwo-Olu to deliver Arewa Think  Tank lecture today

    Lagos State Governor and Chairman of the Southwest Governors Forum, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will today deliver a lecture in commemoration of the 65th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria at the Arewa House, Kaduna.

    Read Also: Tinubu has what it takes to secure Nigeria, says Information Minister

    Governor Sanwo-Olu, as a Guest Speaker, will deliver a lecture titled: “65 Years of Nigeria’s Independence: A Journey So Far with the Renewed Hope Agenda in View”, at a one-day public event organised by the Arewa Think Tank, a Northern Nigerian socio-political and policy advocacy group comprising professionals from 19 northern states.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the Special Guest of Honour for the event to be chaired by former President of the Senate and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Pius Anyim Pius, and co-chaired by Madakin Zazzau, Mallam Mohammed Munir Ja’afaru.

  • Ondo residents protest deplorable condition of Ijoka Road

    Ondo residents protest deplorable condition of Ijoka Road

    • Govt: we will fix it 

    Aggrieved residents of Ijoka in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday protested the deplorable condition of Ijoka/Ijo Mimo Access Road.

    The protesters, who trooped out in the morning, blocked the entrance to  Ijoka Road, lamenting that it had become impassable and a source of daily hardship for commuters and residents.

    Chanting anti-government songs, the demonstrators decried what they described as the government’s neglect of the area, noting that the poor condition of the road had caused accidents and worsened living conditions for residents.

    Read Also: Police, DSS, others begin patrol operations around churches in Abuja

    Speaking during the protest, one of the residents, Ayanfe Adeyemi, said the road had ben abandoned for about four years.

    “For the past three to four years, it has been the worst experience so far. Whether during the rainy season or dry season, you can’t enjoy this road,” Adeyemi lamented.

    Addressing the protesters, the Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Gbenga Fasua, who ran into the protesters, assured them that the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa administration had not abandoned the road.

    He said efforts were ongoing to fix the road and promised that work would resume soon.

  • ‘Anambra poll has ended coalition that never existed’

    ‘Anambra poll has ended coalition that never existed’

    Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for once again proving why he remains the most credible defender of Nigeria’s democracy. Spokesman Seye Oladejo said yesterday in a statement in Ogba, Lagos: ‘’By maintaining absolute neutrality, encouraging transparency and refusing to interfere, the President has elevated his democratic credentials to a level the opposition can neither match nor comprehend.’’

    He lauded the new leadership of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for what could best be described as a bold, refreshing and promising new dawn.

    ‘’If morning truly shows the day, then Nigeria is finally reclaiming the democratic maturity the opposition has spent years trying to undermine with propaganda, theatrics and cheap blackmail.

    ‘’Anambra Governorship Election has exposed the hollow, paper-thin structure of the so-called ‘opposition coalition’. The election did not merely defeat them – it also embarrassed them. It stripped them bare. It showed Nigerians that behind the noise lied a confused mass of political wanderers, competing egoists and perpetual complainers masquerading as a coalition,’’ Oladejo said.

    He noted that a group that could not win together in a familiar backyard and a supposed stronghold should stop dreaming about winning anywhere else.

    Read Also: Tinubu has what it takes to secure Nigeria, says Information Minister

    The Lagos APC spokesman said as the reality of imminent defeat became undeniable, the 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, quickly offered a face-saving excuse – that “all the candidates are my kins.”

    He added: ‘’A convenient statement only discovered when the pendulum had swung violently away from him.

    ‘’Nigerians can now clearly see through the theatrics. In fact, it is becoming obvious that Obi may have missed his true calling. His newly discovered comic talent will serve him well after 2027 when his political retirement becomes official and irreversible. Leadership requires seriousness, not sentimental monologues and emergency philosophies discovered at polling units.

    ‘’For months, they advertised themselves as a tsunami. Anambra has now confirmed them as a puddle. Their so-called coalition is nothing more than a gathering of disgruntled political tourists united by bitterness, not vision; by frustration, not strategy; by hatred of progress, not love for Nigeria.’’

    Oladejo said Nigerians were tired of their hypocrisy, their contradictions and their endless excuses, adding that a coalition that could not mobilise its own base was not preparing for 2027, ‘’it is preparing for political extinction.’’

    He noted that while the opposition was busy licking its wounds and searching for excuses, APC continued to deliver reforms, attract investors, expand infrastructure and restore Nigeria’s dignity on the world stage.

    ‘’Under President Tinubu, Nigeria is not just moving – it is rising. Your era of emotional blackmail is over. Nigerians now judge leaders by results, not rumours; by performance, not propaganda.

    ‘’The answer is simple: Nowhere. Absolutely nowhere. Anambra election has written the obituary of a coalition that never truly existed.’’

  • Obasanjo, Fayose reconcile

    Obasanjo, Fayose reconcile

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and ex-Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose have reconciled after over a decade of malice and feud.

    The ex-governor, who is celebrating his 65th birthday this week, confirmed the reconciliation, saying the crisis is over.

    Fayose on Sunday visited the former president at Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where he held a private meeting with him.

    Read Also: Police, DSS, others begin patrol operations around churches in Abuja

    For years, the two politicians were known for open disagreements, with Obasanjo once describing Fayose as “unruly”, while Fayose accused the former president of political arrogance and intolerance.

    A source said Obasanjo is expected to attend Fayose’s birthday as a gesture to mark the end of their long-standing political rift.

    “The visit demonstrates mutual respect and a renewed spirit of reconciliation between the two leaders,” added the source.

  • Ibadan Circular Road: Residents stage peaceful protest

    Ibadan Circular Road: Residents stage peaceful protest

    Following the expiration of seven days ultimate given to Oyo State Government, residents affected by the Ibadan Circular Road Corridor project yesterday took to the streets to stage a peaceful protest.

    The protesters, who carried placards, banners and posters, arrived at Ibadan end of Ibadan-Ife Road at about 10am, causing gridlock.

    Read Also: Tinubu has what it takes to secure Nigeria, says Information Minister

    The protesters later marched through Idi-Ape to join their counterparts at the state secretariat, Agodi Ibadan, where the protest peaked.

    The arrival of the protesters led to a temporary shutdown of the secretariat, as the protesters were denied access. Visitors and those who had business interest suffered delay while the protest lasted.

    The demonstrators, who dispersed around 4:30pm, vowed to continue the protest until they get the attention of Governor Seyi Makinde.

  • Lagos lawmaker empowers 500 widows

    Lagos lawmaker empowers 500 widows

    A Lagos lawmaker, Adewale Adedeji, yesterday secured the endorsement of monarchs, chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and residents of Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I for another term.

    They made their decision known at the fifth edition of the lawmaker’s widows’ empowerment initiative, which was benefitted by 500 people.

    The programme was held at Adedeji’s constituency office in Lagos.

    Noting that it was the first time they would experience real representation at the state legislature, the constituents said the lawmaker had made life easier for them.

    Deacon Banjo Omole, chairman of APC in Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, thanked his party for not making a mistake in its decision to field Adedeji in previous elections.

    Read Also: Police, DSS, others begin patrol operations around churches in Abuja

    Supporting Adedeji’s endorsement, the Leader of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Council, Adebo Kayode said: “We are happy today because we have not regretted having Adedeji as our lawmaker. We are happy we didn’t make a mistake.’’

    Oba-elect Matthew Ogundimu of Ogundimu Kingdom in Lagos thanked the lawmaker for his impact on the lives of the people.

    Thanking his constituents for their support, Adedeji says his vision is to ensure Ifako-Ijaiye becomes developed.

    He promised free registration of health insurance for residents who did not have it or whose registration had expired.

    He said his free adult literacy classes, which would begin soon, already had over 100 applicants.

    Beneficiaries of the programme lauded the lawmaker for putting smiles on their faces. They promised to always support him.

  • Monarch seeks Oyebanji’s help over roads

    Monarch seeks Oyebanji’s help over roads

    The Regent of Aramoko-Ekiti, Sherifat Owolabi, has appealed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to rehabilitate the deteriorating road network in the town. She described the situation as a setback to the community’s economic growth.

    Speaking with reporters in Aramoko-Ekiti, headquarters of Ekiti West Local Government, the Regent lamented that the poor condition of roads within and around the community had hindered business activities and discouraged potential investors.

    She said improved road network would not only ease transportation, but also boost local commerce and attract investments to the town.

    “Good roads do not just beautify a town, they open it up for development and investment. We are appealing to Governor Oyebanji to fix the roads. The government has been supportive in other ways, but we need more intervention to revive our economy,” Owolabi added.

    Read Also: Tinubu has what it takes to secure Nigeria, says Information Minister

    Her appeal came shortly after the Asao of Aramoko-Ekiti, Chief Diran Adebayo, announced the passing of the town’s monarch, Oba Olu Adeyemi, who died on August 9 at the age of 82.

    The Regent urged indigenes of Aramoko at home and in the diaspora to return home and invest in the town, stressing that such collective efforts would further fast-track its development.

    ‘’Aramoko is peaceful; there is no conspiracy or witchcraft here. We need our people to come home and do great things,” she said.

    “If major transport companies begin to ply this route, it will boost our local economy. Aramoko is different now; government should have mercy on us.”

    Princess Owolabi called on residents to remain peaceful and united, noting that harmony was essential to progress and community development.

    “When I came here, we asked for a university, and the government approved it. Now, we still need housing estates and better roads. I believe Governor Oyebanji will help us achieve this,” she said.

    Chief Adebayo said in keeping with the community’s tradition, the late monarch’s death could only be officially announced three months after his burial.

    The Asao of Aramoko said the late monarch was buried immediately after his passing, in accordance with Islamic rites.

    He described Oba Adeyemi as a visionary traditional ruler, who brought development to Aramoko, especially in education and health care.

    “During his reign, government rehabilitated the town’s health centre, refurbished the palace, renovated roads and approved the establishment of a state-owned higher institution,” he said.

    Adebayo noted that the process to select a new king would begin once the local government formally notified the royal families to submit candidates, after which the kingmakers would begin the selection process, in accordance with extant custom and tradition.