The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Tinubu’s aide celebrates Ekiti First Lady on birthday

    Tinubu’s aide celebrates Ekiti First Lady on birthday

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Ibrahim Olarewaju, has congratulated Ekiiti First Lady  Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a symbol of grace, intellect, and compassion.

    In a statement, Hon. Olarewaju praised Dr. Oyebanji for her selfless service, exemplary leadership, and unwavering support to her husband, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, in driving the development of Ekiti State.

    He described the Ekiti First Lady as “a pillar of strength to her husband” who combines brilliance with rare humility and compassion to uplift lives, especially among the most vulnerable.

    Highlighting her contributions to education, Olarewaju commended Dr. Oyebanji’s remarkable gesture of lecturing pro bono in three tertiary institutions across the state.

    “This act of selfless service reflects her deep belief in human capital development and her passion for nurturing the next generation through knowledge sharing and mentorship. She embodies a rare blend of intellectual brilliance and genuine empathy,” he said.

    He also applauded the First Lady’s humanitarian initiative tagged Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Initiative which he described as a beacon of hope for many Ekiti families.

    According to him, the programme has empowered numerous widows, aged citizens, and orphans through financial assistance, vocational support, and community interventions.

    Olarewaju further lauded her advocacy for women’s rights and her unflinching commitment to enforcing Gender-Based Violence laws in the state, saying her bold stance on protecting women and ensuring justice for victims of abuse speaks to her courage and compassion. 

    He equally commended her passion for child welfare, citing her Back to School initiative, which has distributed school bags, stationery, and instructional materials to over 10,000 pupils across Ekiti.

    He noted that Dr. Oyebanji’s consistent focus on  girl-child continues to inspire confidence and equal  opportunity in education, describing her as “a shining example of purposeful leadership and impactful service.”

    “We celebrate not just another birthday, but another year of profound impact, grace, and devotion to humanity. May God bless Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji with long life, sound health, and renewed strength to continue her remarkable service to the people of Ekiti and beyond,” he prayed.

  • NUPRC chief Komolafe wins global sustainable leadership award in UK

    NUPRC chief Komolafe wins global sustainable leadership award in UK

    Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, has received the Global Sustainable Leadership Award at the 2025 Global Sustainable Education and Leadership (G-SEL) Conference, held at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster, United Kingdom.

    The two-day event, which brought together senior policymakers, business leaders, and diplomats from across the world, recognised Komolafe’s outstanding leadership in driving reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and positioning Nigeria as a credible, transparent, and competitive energy investment destination.

    Since assuming office, Komolafe has played a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas sector. Under his leadership, the nation’s rig count has risen dramatically from eight in 2021 to 69 as of October 2025 — representing a growth of more than 760 per cent. 

    Revenue performance has also consistently surpassed government projections, with surpluses of 18.3 per cent in 2022, 14.6 per cent in 2023, and a remarkable 84.2 per cent in 2024.

    Beyond fiscal achievements, NUPRC has made significant progress in promoting host community development and indigenous participation. 

    Local operators now contribute over 30 per cent of Nigeria’s total oil production, while the implementation of Host Community Development Trusts ensures that oil and gas operations directly benefit local populations in line with global sustainability practices.

    Accepting the award, Komolafe dedicated the recognition to the Nigerian people, describing it as a testament to their resilience and the government’s unwavering commitment to reform and sustainable growth in the energy sector.

    “This award belongs to Nigeria. It recognises the courage and faith that drive our reforms in the upstream oil and gas sector. We are building a transparent, accountable, and investment-friendly system that reflects our national values and global aspirations,” he said.

    Read Also: NUPRC boss Komolafe makes list of continental experts to speak at Pan-African parliament session

    Komolafe noted that the NUPRC’s strategy is anchored on three priorities — transparency, competitiveness, and sustainability — with an emphasis on maximising the value of Nigeria’s hydrocarbon resources while advancing the energy transition. 

    We are not only regulating production. We are shaping the future of energy in Africa by ensuring that Nigeria remains a reliable supplier, a fair regulator, and a responsible global partner,” the NUPRC boss added.

    The G-SEL London Conference 2025, themed ‘The intersection of innovation, sustainability and equity for energy access’, served as a major forum for global dialogue on the future of energy, education, and inclusive growth.

    Komolafe’s recognition reinforces Nigeria’s growing reputation as an energy hub built on regulatory integrity, sustainable growth, and global partnership — a milestone that underscores the nation’s role in shaping the next phase of Africa’s energy future.

    Other recipients of the Global Sustainable Leadership Award included Angela Wilkinson, Chief Executive Officer of the World Energy Council; Jason Jackson, Mayor of Islington, London; Riad Meddeb, Director of Sustainable Energy at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP); and Ben Parsons, Partner at Oakin Energy Transition Strategy, United Kingdom. Others were Macenje “Che Che” Mazoka, Zambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom; Seema Malhotra FRSA, Member of Parliament for Feltham and Heston and Minister at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office; and Joel Singh, Director at General Electric Company, United Kingdom.

    The award also went to Hon. Dr. Toreria Moyo, Minister of Primary and Secondary Education of Zimbabwe; Mr. Alex Wachira, CBS, Principal Secretary at Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum; and H.E. Dr. Morie K. Manyeh, Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom — rounding off a distinguished roster of leaders honoured for their commitment to sustainable growth, inclusive governance, and energy transition across Africa and beyond.

  • Alleged genocide: Olowu urges Nigerians to unite in defence of Nigeria 

    Alleged genocide: Olowu urges Nigerians to unite in defence of Nigeria 

     …urges President Trump to share actionable intelligence with Nigeria

    The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammeed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism and speak with one voice in order to safeguard the country’s unity and defeat terrorism.

    Speaking at the 35th edition of the Kuta Day celebration on Saturday, Oba Oyelude emphasised the importance of unity, noting that the current security challenges demand collective action and unwavering national loyalty.

    “Irrespective of political leaning or affiliation, this is the time to show our patriotic zeal. We must all bear in mind that we must have the country first before thinking of any ambition,” the monarch said.

    Read Also: Trump’s threat and misguided notion of Christian genocide

    Addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the royal father commended his administration for improving the welfare of the Nigerian military since assuming office on May 29, 2023. 

    However, he urged the president to do even more to further motivate the nation’s gallant officers.

    He also applauded the new Service Chiefs for promptly taking charge after their confirmation by the Senate and receiving handover notes from their predecessors. 

    The monarch urged them to intensify their efforts to rid the nation of terrorist groups and restore peace and stability.

    “Your appointment comes at a defining moment in our nation’s history. I urge the Service Chiefs to ensure that all resources—both human capital and equipment—are effectively deployed to end insurgency once and for all,” he stated.

    Oba Oyelude further appealed to former U.S. President Donald Trump to support Nigeria through actionable intelligence sharing and provision of operational platforms to help neutralize insurgent threats swiftly.

  • Tinubu poised to end terrorism, tackle sponsors – Lagos lawmaker

    Tinubu poised to end terrorism, tackle sponsors – Lagos lawmaker

    With the level of growth Nigeria has experienced in recent times, the Bola Tinubu government deserves commendations, support and international collaboration, a Lagos lawmaker has said.

    Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji, representative of Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I at the Lagos State House of Assembly, said this in a statement on Friday urging President Donald Trump, the American President, to reconsider his stand on the happenings in Nigeria.

    The lawmaker said President Tinubu understands the challenges and as a result, he has never stopped strengthening the nation’s security architecture as seen in the recent change of guard in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    “President Bola Tinubu, as a father, is not happy that bandits, terrorists or whatever name-tag they have got, have tried to downplay the gains of the administration just as they did with previous administrations.

    “This is one reason the President ordered the recently appointed service chiefs in Nigeria to put a final end to insecurity in the country. The current administration will never pamper terrorists or their sponsors,” he said. 

    Adewale, a ranking lawmaker, said in the last two years, countries and various global organisations have acknowledged the growing economic successes recorded by the current administration.

    “The Tinubu administration continues to open more economic pathways for progress. Different data have shown inflation dropping for the first time in years. More than before, the administration has attracted multi-billion dollar investments while working to reinvigorate moribund industries and maintain its place as the giant of Africa.

    Economic indices continue to prove that the government is on the right track and this has reflected in the country’s currency continuously gaining weight.

    “For the first time, the sub-national governments are comfortable because they now have a level of economic power.

    “Thus, what Nigeria deserves at this time is global collaboration from the US and other nations in the interest of the citizens. Our youth and citizens must continue to be patient and trust in the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the government.

    “We must encourage Nigeria’s new service chiefs to live up to expectations and do all that is necessary to ensure they put a final stop to insurgents in the country. Let’s continue to support the government’s giant strides knowing that the results would best fit our yearnings,” he said.

  • Akè festival cultural, not idolatry- Oba Aladesuru

    Akè festival cultural, not idolatry- Oba Aladesuru

    The Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, has dismissed as unfounded the claims that the annual Àkè Festival has any link with idolatry, describing it instead as a purely cultural celebration of the town’s rich history and heritage.

    Addressing journalists in his palace, as part of activities marking the weeklong Òdùn Àkè 2025, Oba Aladesuru said the festival was instituted to honour the founding fathers and heroes of the ancient Igede kingdom.

    According to the monarch, the original settlers who founded the town were sixteen brothers who lived and governed from the Ake Hills. 

    He explained that a disagreement over leadership among the brothers led each of them to settle around various sacred locations such as streams, trees, and groves, which later became significant cultural symbols in the town’s history.

    He narrated that the youngest of the brothers, who was away hunting during the dispute, was later made the leader by the townspeople who witnessed the events, marking a turning point in the community’s evolution.

    “Àkè Festival is a celebration of our forefathers, our roots, and the origin of Igede.It is a taboo here to say ‘Ogede’. We say ‘Òfò’ because ‘Ogede’ was the sacred word used during the brothers’ disagreement, and that word eventually became ‘Ìgèdè,’ the name of our town today.

    “So, anyone saying Àkè Festival is linked to idol worship is simply uninformed. The festival is open to everyone and reflects our unity, history, and identity as a people,” he added.

    The monarch outlined series of activities slated for the festival,  including cultural displays and indoor games on November 4, a quiz competition and football match on November 5 and  commissioning of community projects and economic summit on Thursday November 6.

    Friday’s programme will feature a town-wide sanitation exercise, the annual general meeting of the community, and a Juma’at service at the Igede Central Mosque. 

    On Saturday, November 8, there will be a grand cultural parade, fashion exhibition, and fundraising ceremony, while the celebration will climax on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at the Christ Apostolic Church, Igede-Ekiti.

    As part of the festival, a free medical outreach led by Dr. Afolabi from the Federal Medical Centre, Ido-Ekiti, attended to hundreds of residents.

    Beneficiaries received free consultations, laboratory tests, and medications, while over 500 eyeglasses were distributed to elderly men and women in the community.

  • Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC, begins grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC, begins grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu’s re-election

    A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    Announcing his defection in Irun Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area, Ibrahim – popularly known as Murphy – said his political focus is now centered on ensuring President Tinubu’s continuity in office beyond 2027.

    According to him, his decision to join the APC and the increasing wave of support for the party across communities were not products of formal campaign activities but an organic expression of satisfaction with President Tinubu’s performance in office.

    “I am here to make sure that Oke-Irun Surulere Ward is moving ahead and faster. I also want to rally round for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At the grassroots, we are mobilising for him.

    “I want to make sure 2027 is assured for President Tinubu. I have begun with my various groups to canvass support for him from the grassroots,” Ibrahim stated.

    The former PDP stalwart commended President Tinubu for demonstrating exemplary leadership, noting that his economic reforms were beginning to yield positive results across the country.

    He pledged to work tirelessly to mobilise grassroots support for the President and strengthen the APC’s base across Ondo State while urging party members to remain united and steadfast in preparation for future elections.

    Receiving the defector, the APC Chairman of Irun Ward 7, Mr. Lasisi Ajongbolo described Ibrahim’s defection as a major boost for the party and President Tinubu’s 2027 ambition.

    Ajongbolo praised Ibrahim as “a big pillar” whose selfless contributions to community development transcend political affiliations.

    “His coming to the APC is an added advantage that will improve our chances ahead of the 2027 elections. There is no other party in this community than APC.

    “Hon. Ibrahim is driven by compassion and a genuine desire to uplift others. He has continued to invest heavily in humanitarian and community development projects.

    “His decision to come home and identify with his ward and community marks a new chapter of unity and leadership,” he said.

    He added that the warm reception Ibrahim received in his political ward was a reflection of the immense love and trust his people have in him.

    “Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, described by many as a visionary, compassionate, and people-oriented leader, is regarded as part of a new generation shaping the future of Ondo State politics.

    “Ibrahim (Murphy) is more than a name; he is a movement of hope, an embodiment of integrity, and a symbol of transformational leadership.

    “His journey inspires faith in the power of vision, compassion, and service to humanity,” Mr Ajongbolo said.

  • We raise funds at annual Iragbiji Day to consolidate development – Monarch

    We raise funds at annual Iragbiji Day to consolidate development – Monarch

    The Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi Odundun IV, has said that his community raises funds at the Iragbiji Day anniversary celebration to strengthen human, capital and socio-economic development of the ancient town. 

    The monarch spoke ahead of  year’s Iragbiji Day anniversary on November 15, in a statement by the community Spokesperson and Head of Media and Publicity sub-committee for the Day, Dr. Jimoh Olorede. 

    The statement was signed by the Chairmen, Iragbiji Development Association (IDA), and 34th Iragbiji Day Planning Committee, Dr. Lateef Raheem, and Mr. Remi Agboola, respectively. 

    According to the statement, Iragbiji, whose existence as a community predated six centuries, has been undergoing tremendous progress in the last 17 years of the ascension of Oba Olabomi to the throne as the 15th Aragbiji, who is Pro-chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council, Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta. 

    Oba Olabomi in the statement said: “Iragbiji has recorded many achievements since I became the Aragbiji owing to our dedication and commitment to changing the age-long narrative from autocracy to traditional democracy that is development-driven with participatory governance, community engagement and collaboration with government and non-governmental organizations. 

    Read Also: Monarchs appoint Uzodimma coordinator

    “Our investments in human development have obviously yielded bountiful harvest as evident in the socio-economic and structural development of Iragbiji. The ongoing construction of our “Civic Center” for recreational activities, which has gulped hundreds of millions of naira, is a testament in this instance.

    “We built an administrative monumental  complex for both High Court and Magistrate Court solely by community effort without receiving a penny of contribution or donation from the government. 

    “Also with our community effort only, we built state-of-the-art, ultra modern palace, which today remains one of the most-aesthetically constructed palaces in South-west Nigeria.”

    The statement added that the commitment of the community stakeholders to development was what attracted the attention and consideration of the federal government of Nigeria to establish in Iragbiji a federal University, whose takeoff was sponsored by the Iragbiji Indigenous Development Association led by the monarch, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, and Chaired by Dr. Lateef Raheem.

    It appealed to invited guests, dignitaries, government officials and other prospective attendees to donate generously at this year’s annual Day celebration for consolidation of development of Iragbiji.

  • 2027: Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC 

    2027: Ondo PDP chieftain defects to APC 

    A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim has defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his full support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    Announcing his defection in Irun Akoko, Akoko North-West Local Government Area of the state, Ibrahim – popularly known as Murphy – said his political focus is now centered on ensuring President Tinubu’s continuity in office beyond 2027.

    According to him, his decision to join the APC and the increasing wave of support for the party across communities were not products of formal campaign activities but an organic expression of satisfaction with President Tinubu’s performance in office.

    “I am here to make sure that Oke-Irun Surulere Ward is moving ahead and faster. I also want to rally round for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. At the grassroots, we are mobilising for him.

    “I want to make sure 2027 is assured for President Tinubu. I have begun with my various groups to canvass support for him from the grassroots,” Ibrahim stated.

    The former PDP stalwart commended President Tinubu for demonstrating exemplary leadership, noting that his economic reforms were beginning to yield positive results across the country.

    Read Also: Forum of state chairmen back Damagum, PDP convention

    He pledged to work tirelessly to mobilise grassroots support for the President and strengthen the APC’s base across Ondo State while urging party members to remain united and steadfast in preparation for future elections.

    Receiving the defector, the APC Chairman of Irun Ward 7, Mr. Lasisi Ajongbolo described Ibrahim’s defection as a major boost for the party and President Tinubu’s 2027 ambition.

    Ajongbolo praised Ibrahim as “a big pillar” whose selfless contributions to community development transcend political affiliations.

    “His coming to the APC is an added advantage that will improve our chances ahead of the 2027 elections. There is no other party in this community than APC.

    “Hon. Ibrahim is driven by compassion and a genuine desire to uplift others. He has continued to invest heavily in humanitarian and community development projects.

    “His decision to come home and identify with his ward and community marks a new chapter of unity and leadership,” he said.

    He added that the warm reception Ibrahim received in his political ward was a reflection of the immense love and trust his people have in him.

    “Hon. Morufu Tosin Ibrahim, described by many as a visionary, compassionate, and people-oriented leader, is regarded as part of a new generation shaping the future of Ondo State politics.

    “Ibrahim (Murphy) is more than a name; he is a movement of hope, an embodiment of integrity, and a symbol of transformational leadership.

    “His journey inspires faith in the power of vision, compassion, and service to humanity,” Mr Ajongbolo said.

  • Aggrieved youths storm Aiyedatiwa’s office

    Aggrieved youths storm Aiyedatiwa’s office

    Aggrieved youths from Irekari Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State have stormed the Governor’s Office in Akure to protest the deplorable condition of roads and lack of social amenities in their communities.

    The protesters lamented the absence of hospitals, electricity and other basic infrastructures in the four towns that make up the LCDA – Afo, Imeri, Idogun and Idoani.

    Armed with placards bearing inscriptions such as “Mr Governor, We Are Suffering”, “Irekari is Part of Ondo State”, “No Road, No Bank, No Light” and “No Hospital, No Court, No Road”, the youth decried years of neglect and marginalisation of the community by the state government.

    Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr. Adewumi Adekola expressed concern about the worsening condition of roads linking the communities, noting that many residents had died due to the delay in accessing medical facilities in Owo.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa presents staff of office to new Olu-Oke of Oke-Igbo amid protests

    He cited a recent incident involving a reverend father, who reportedly died while being taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, through a road that should ordinarily take less than 30 minutes to travel on, but now takes about two hours.

    Addressing the protesters, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Smart Omodunbi Jr., assured them that their grievances would be addressed.

    He said: “I want to assure you that your letter will be delivered to the governor, who is already aware of your presence here. He has directed that relevant officials visit your communities and take immediate action.

    “I commend you for your peaceful conduct. The governor is passionate about youth-related issues and will ensure your demands receive prompt attention.”

  • APC, Adeleke trade words over governor’s alleged plan to join ADC

    APC, Adeleke trade words over governor’s alleged plan to join ADC

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke are at loggerheads over an alleged plan of the governor to join African Democratic Congress (ADC), amid the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national leadership crisis.

    APC through its state Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, in a statement yesterday alleged that Adeleke was hobnobbing with the leadership of ADC ahead of the 2026 governorship primary election of the party.

    He described the alleged plan of Adeleke as desperate, saying: “Such desperation to secure a second term ticket amounts to Adeleke going back to swallow his vomit, given his recent verbal attack on Aregbesola.”

    The APC state chairman said: “Adeleke began the move after his plot to join our party failed in previous months due to poor public rating, which eroded public confidence in the progressive brand the party had built over the years.

    Read Also: Falana faults Oyo Govt’s alleged disobedience to Court judgement on NURTW proscription

    “No one would have envisaged that Adeleke would one day contemplate having a political rapprochement with Aregbesola he called unprintable names just four months ago. It is strange that Adeleke now sees Aregbesola as his political messiah without whom his second term ambition is in danger.”

    Governor Adeleke, through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, denied the alleged plan of joining ADC, describing it as false. “The entire assertions by the opposition are mere fabrication and fake news.”

    He said: “Governor Adeleke is not negotiating with former Governor Aregbesola about ADC and the governor is not joining ADC. The public are hereby implored to ignore the fake news from the pit of hell.”