The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • OYNA unveils development programme to empower youths in Ogbomoso

    OYNA unveils development programme to empower youths in Ogbomoso

    Ogbomoso Youths in North America (OYNA) has unveiled the ‘Ogbomoso Tech Programme 2025’, a digital empowerment initiative aimed at aligning with the developmental agenda of Ogbomosoland.

    The group, in a statement, said the programme was designed to equip Ogbomoso youths with foundational skills in software product development, empowering them to meet global standards and contribute to the progress of the community—”Fun itesiwaju ile wa.”

    According to them, the Ogbomoso Tech Programme is an intensive eight-week foundational training course for aspiring tech creators aged 18-35, adding that their mission was to provide participants with core skills in software development and problem-solving. 

    “This initiative seeks passionate and determined individuals eager to build innovative solutions for the future. Upon completion, graduates with the most outstanding projects will be sponsored for an advanced industry-mentorship program, providing a clear path for career growth.

    “We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to the bright and ambitious youths of Ogbomosoland. This program is more than just training; it’s a platform for young creators to develop tangible solutions for problems within their communities. 

    “By investing in their software development skills, we are investing in a technologically advanced and prosperous future for Ogbomosoland.

    “To be considered for this program, applicants must be a strict indigene of Ogbomosoland and be between 18 and 35 years old, possess a minimum of an Ordinary National Diploma (OND) or a Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE). Applicants with HND, Bachelor’s degrees, or higher are also encouraged to apply.

    “They must have intermediate skills in using common computer applications, including the Windows Operating System, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Workspace.

    “The application deadline is November 23, 2025. The selection process will involve a review of all applications by a committee, a possible interview for shortlisted candidates, and a final notification via email.

    “Ogbomoso Youths in North America (OYNA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the upliftment and development of Ogbomosoland and its people. Through various initiatives in education, healthcare, and empowerment, OYNA strives to create a brighter future for the community.”

  • ‘Stop rejoicing over Nigeria’s challenges’

    ‘Stop rejoicing over Nigeria’s challenges’

    Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has cautioned the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr Peter Obi, not to rejoice over Nigeria’s challenges. 

    The party in a statement yesterday in Ogba, Lagos by its spokesman, Seye Oladejo, said: ‘’Lagos APC has observed the latest grandstanding by Peter Obi following the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a “country of particular concern.” True to form, Obi once again attempted to turn a sensitive national issue into political theatre, rather than demonstrate statesmanship.

    ‘’Even more telling is that it uncharacteristically took him some time to respond. For a man always seeking microphones and hashtags, his sudden silence was deafening – until well-meaning Nigerians began to publicly question it. It has become clear that Obi did not speak out of patriotic instinct, but out of public pressure and fear of further exposing his double standards.

    ‘’When Obi finally spoke, the nation saw what we expected – too little, too late, and too predictable. His reaction lacked sincerity, urgency and any semblance of a unifying spirit.

    ‘’A man who claims to desire national leadership should not require public reminders to speak when his nation’s image is at stake. Leadership is proactive, not reactive and certainly not driven by online agitation.’’

    READ ALSO: No religious persecution in Nigeria, Tuggar insists

    He said real leaders defended their country in difficult moments,

    adding that statesmen balanced criticism with dignity and national pride.

    ‘’But Peter Obi appears content only when Nigeria is under pressure, believing every challenge for the nation is an opportunity for his political resurrection. That is not patriotism. It is sour politics born from electoral heartbreak.

    ‘’Nigeria’s security problems did not start yesterday – they were inherited. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is confronting them with courage and strategy: Strengthening military command and intelligence structures.

    Deploying modern technology and platforms. Re-energising regional and global security collaboration. Tackling the economic roots of insecurity through bold reforms.’’

    He said while serious leaders were working, Obi and his online choir were rehearsing 2023 grievances and clinging to foreign commentary for political oxygen.

    ‘’Obi must decide whether he stands with Nigeria or with his ever-shrinking echo chamber of bitterness and resentment. No serious nation is built on the politics of

  • Oyo govt begins demolition of structures

    Oyo govt begins demolition of structures

    Following the expiration of 14 days ultimatum given to traders and owners, Oyo State Government yesterday began the demolition of illegally-built structures, including shops, kiosks, etc. on roadsides, setbacks and walkways across Ibadan.

    The development followed an eviction notice served on the affected owners on October 13, which lapsed on Monday.

    This is besides a reminder notice, which was communicated to the concerned traders last week, serving as a period of grace for them to do the needful.

    However, following the expiration of the grace period, Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), in collaboration with other sister agencies, on Monday proceeded with the demolition of the illegal structures on the road setbacks and walkways.

    Other agents involved in the exercise included officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Oyo State Road Management Authority (OYRTMA), Environmental Task Force Officials, Nigeria Police Force, Amotekun Corps and other state security operatives.

    The Joint Enforcement Team led by DCP Francis Ojomo (Rtd) and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Mrs Iyabo Akinbode, started the demolition and evacuation from Airport Junction, en route to Alakia-Adegbayi, towards Old Ife Road, to remove structures as iron containers, erected and mobile kiosks, as well as goods and other illegal structures.

    Commenting on the exercise, OYRLEA Chairperson, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (Rtd.), said OYRLEA, in its core responsibilities, must ensure a sane, clean and safer environment at all times.

    READ ALSO: Abba Kyari denies ownership of property linked to him

    She said the enforcement to uphold the Rule of Law needed to be intensified, adding: “Our environment ought to be welcoming and safe for investors, thus appealing to all and sundry. This has always been the desire of our people-oriented governor, Seyi Makinde, on whose mandate we operate.’’

    She noted: “The evacuation of illegal structures and containers on the road setbacks and walkways on these routes, ahead of the inauguration of the International Airport, remains a must, subsequent to an eviction notice earlier served, and importantly, the sensitisation and awareness jingle on radio stations.

    “Acting on the state government’s directive, roadside traders and those selling in containers on Airport Road, Old Ife Road and Onipepeye areas of Ibadan have exhausted the grace to relocate their trades within the stipulated period of time, hence a continuum of the eviction.’’

  • Fear grips Osun PDP over Wike’s comment on Adeleke

    Fear grips Osun PDP over Wike’s comment on Adeleke

    Fear has gripped Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), following recent comments by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over the party’s national leadership crisis.

    The comments have cast doubt on Governor Ademola Adeleke’s chances of getting the party’s proper nomination for his 2026 re-election bid.

    Wike, featuring on a national television on Monday night, was asked if the PDP would have a candidate in 2026 Osun and Ekiti state governorship elections.

    He said the party was in ‘danger’.

    Said he: ‘’Ask the governor of Osun, Adeleke, ask him. He came to see me and I told him, what are you doing? That you (Adeleke) are in danger. I don’t like people who are not truthful. Ask the governor of Osun, the dancing governor, ask him whether I never called him to ask that do you see the implication, do you see the danger you are running into? Ask him. What he tells me? There is this spirit in governors that I can do it all, I can do magic.”

    Wike’s comments have sent jittery to Adeleke and PDP camp in Osun State, as party chieftains and leaders are fretting over the development.

    A PDP leader, Adewale Adegbite, said: “You can listen to the comment made by Wike. Are we not done for as a party for the 2026 governorship election? Our party is united and ready to face the election next year, but the latest development may affect our preparation.”

    READ ALSO: Abba Kyari denies ownership of property linked to him

    Another top PDP leader, who craved anonymity, said: “Adeleke has been in talks with factions within the party to secure proper nomination. He has discussed with Wike and Makinde, and we hope the crisis will be resolved.”

    However, Osun PDP, through its Director of Media, Oladele Olabamji, speaking with The Nation yesterday, dispelled the rumoured jittery in the party ahead of the primary election.

    Reacting to Wike’s comment, he said: “We don’t foresee any danger. As far as we are concerned in PDP, Governor Adeleke has begun his process of nomination, which we all know. The process will be completed without any issue, I can assure you.’’

  • Aregbesola’s caucus seeks Osun ADC governorship ticket

    Aregbesola’s caucus seeks Osun ADC governorship ticket

    The caucus of the National Secretary of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rauf Aregbesola, has demanded that the 2026 governorship ticket of the party be zoned to Osun West Senatorial District.

    A statement by the caucus named Omoluabi Progressives, through its Publicity and Organising Secretary, Abosede Oluwaseun, said the caucus resolved that ADC should zone the governorship ticket to Osun West Senatorial District at a meeting in Ilesa, attended by supporters of the caucus from 332 electoral wards.

    READ ALSO: No religious persecution in Nigeria, Tuggar insists

    She said: “The meeting featured the formal welcoming of new members from political divides, including the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Some former members of the defunct, The Osun Progressives (TOP) also officially returned to their political root.’’

    She said meeting was attended by the Chairman of ADC Membership Mobilisation, Revalidation and Registration Committee, Kamil Mudashir, who visited Aregbesola.

    Abosede said: “In his address, Ogbeni hailed members for their dedication to building the movement and announced that the apex body of Omoluabi Progressives had resolved to present a formidable aspirant from Osun West Senatorial District for the December 12 ADC primaries, to demonstrate unity and strength.”

  • Aiyedatiwa presents staff of office to new Olu-Oke of Oke-Igbo amid protests

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

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has presented the instrument of appointment and staff of office to Oba Akintoye Felix Adeoye as the new Olu-Oke of Oke-Igbo in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government.

    The ceremony, held yesterday in Oke-Igbo, took place amid protests by the Kuole Oloje Ruling House, which rejected the nomination of Prince Adeoye of the Are Kugbaigbe Ruling House, describing the government’s decision as “unacceptable.”

    The protesting family cited a pending appeal at Ondo State Court of Appeal over a previous High Court judgment that had favoured the Are Kugbaigbe Ruling House in the kingship dispute.

    Speaking during the presentation, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the event marked the end of a “long-drawn traditional and legal tussle” that had left Olu-Oke stool vacant for years.

    He recalled that the vacancy followed a court judgment that nullified the appointment of the late Oba Babajide Lawrence Oluwole, declaring that he was not a descendant of Are Kugbaigbe Ruling House and directing that the next monarch should emerge from that lineage.

    READ ALSO: Abba Kyari denies ownership of property linked to him

    According to the governor, the Chieftaincy Declaration registered in 2019 by the deposed monarch was rendered null and void by the court, thereby restoring the native laws and customs of Oke-Igbo as the valid basis for the selection process.

    Aiyedatiwa urged the new monarch to see his ascension as a call to service and an opportunity to promote peace and unity in Oke-Igbo.

    “Kabiyesi, you are now a father to all. Forget the acrimony of the past and do not use your position to victimise perceived opponents or rivals. I pray that Oke-Igbo will witness peace, growth and development during your reign,” the governor said.

    He appealed to other contenders and their supporters to accept the new monarch, stressing that “the interest of Oke-Igbo must be placed above personal interests.”

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, hailed the governor’s adherence to due process in the selection of traditional rulers.

    He said the state Executive Council  approved Oba Adeoye’s appointment on October 27, after confirming its conformity with Oke-Igbo’s customs and traditions.

    However, the Kuole Oloje Ruling House, through its Secretary, Prince Kolawole Adelabu, faulted the government’s decision, insisting that it was their turn to produce the next monarch.

    “Without mincing words, it is the turn of Kuole Oloje Ruling House to present a candidate to fill the vacant stool left by the late Oba Olu Babajide, the Gbangbala I, who hailed from the Are Kugbaigbe Ruling House,” Adelabu said.

    He said the stool had always rotated among the five ruling houses in Oke-Igbo – noting that the late Oba Oluwole Timothy Fasawe, from the Odo Eleyowo Ruling House, preceded the deposed monarch.

    Adelabu accused the state government of “politically manipulating” the process in favour of the Are Kugbaigbe Ruling House, despite their turn having elapsed, and said the decision violated the rotational principle recognised in the state gazette.

    He disowned some individuals allegedly acting on behalf of the family in court, stressing that they were not authorised to represent the Kuole Oloje Ruling House.

    Adelabu, therefore, appealed to the state government to refrain from presenting the staff of office to Prince Adeoye, pending the outcome of the case before the Court of App

  • Lagos to showcase climate leadership at COP30

    Lagos to showcase climate leadership at COP30

    The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE), has announced participation at the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Brazil, with a strong spotlight on the 80 million Clean Cookstoves (CCS) and four billion Tree Planting Project, the world’s largest UNFCCC Article 6.4-approved clean energy and reforestation initiative.

    As part of its global climate leadership agenda, Lagos will feature prominently at the Climate Innovation Zone, hosted by the Climate Action, the official business and investment partner platform of COP.

    This strategic collaboration positions Lagos among a select group of African subnational governments demonstrating actionable climate leadership, sustainable urban transition, and investment-ready solutions.

    The plan of the Lagos State Government for the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Brazil was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs Titi Oshodi.

    She disclosed the 80 million Clean Cookstoves Initiative, developed by GreenPlinth Africa, endorsed by the Office of the Vice President and the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) in partnership with Oando Clean Energy, is a flagship demonstration of Lagos’ role in accelerating Africa’s green transition.

    Oshodi said the project aims to deploy 80 million metered, biomass-powered cookstoves to households across Nigeria, reducing over 1.2 billion tonnes of CO₂e emissions, improving health outcomes, and creating thousands of green jobs across the value chain.

    She said: “Lagos is championing the new face of Africa’s climate ambition—where innovation meets implementation. Our participation at COP30 is about demonstrating how subnational leadership can unlock global climate finance, scale clean energy access, and deliver a just, inclusive transition for millions.

    “This initiative reflects the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose administration has prioritised climate action, resilience, and sustainable urban development as central pillars of Lagos’ long-term growth agenda.

    “Through its engagements at COP30, Lagos aims to spotlight its integrated climate finance framework while showcasing flagship initiatives across clean energy, transport decarbonisation, agriculture, and circular economy innovation.”

    Read Also: Shettima heads to Brazil for COP30

    Oshodi stressed further that “Key Highlights of Lagos’ COP30 Engagements will include a Private Roundtable on “From Lagos to the World – Financing Urban Climate Solutions for a Just and Inclusive Transition” on November 6. This high-level session, headlined by His Excellency, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, will convene development finance institutions (DFIs), global investors, and international policymakers to explore new models for financing city-led climate initiatives.

    “The session will also feature a showcase of Lagos’ flagship climate projects from LAMATA presenting low-carbon transport and sustainable mobility frameworks and LASPA presenting solutions that will help Lagos to drive the transition to electric vehicles. The agency is building infrastructure for electric vehicle charging points.

    “The Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems will highlight nature-based and agroforestry solutions. Oando Clean Energy will share private-sector-led innovation in clean energy transition, while GreenPlinth Africa will spotlight the 80 Million Clean Cookstoves initiative and its global carbon finance potential.”

    Oshodi stressed further that Lagos, during the Africa Innovation Forum Main Stage Panel on November 7, “will take the global stage alongside other leading climate finance experts and private sector partners to share its model for climate financing, energy transition, and local-global collaboration, positioning the state as a reference point for urban climate leadership in Africa.”

    “During the Climate Implementation Summit on November 8, Lagos will participate and showcase the 80 Million Clean Cookstoves Initiative—the first biomass clean cooking program in the world to integrate on-chain Digital MRV (Measurement, Reporting, and Verification) technology. This inclusion highlights Nigeria’s pioneering role in leveraging climate tech to deliver measurable emission reductions and social co-benefits.

    “There will also be a Dealroom Session with DFIs, Funders and Technical Partners on November 8 on ‘Bridging Ambition and Capital: Financing Bankable African Climate Solutions’. This private dealroom convenes DFIs (AfDB, IFC, GCF, FMO), private investors, and carbon financiers to unlock capital and de-risk investment into high-impact projects such as the 80M CCS and Lagos’ climate-smart urban portfolio.

    “Through these engagements, Lagos will cement its position as a continental leader in climate innovation, advancing projects that directly contribute to global emission reduction targets while driving inclusive growth and resilience across Nigeria.”

  • Nigeria’s Aderonke Atoyebi shines in Denmark, named ISCA role model of the year

    Nigeria’s Aderonke Atoyebi shines in Denmark, named ISCA role model of the year

    Nigeria’s Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi has etched her name on the global stage after being crowned the International Sport and Culture Association (ISCA) Role Model of the Year in Copenhagen, Denmark, a recognition that celebrates her tireless work in using sports as a vehicle for empowerment and inclusion.

    The biennial ISCA Awards honour individuals and organisations that harness sports and physical activity to promote social change and community development worldwide. 

    This year’s edition drew nominations from several countries, recognising exceptional figures who have turned the power of sport into tools of transformation.

    Atoyebi’s consistent advocacy for gender equality, youth development, and social inclusion has positioned her as a leading light in Nigeria’s sports-for-development movement. 

    Her initiatives have shown how sports can serve as a unifying force, building bridges of hope, education, and empowerment, particularly for young women.

    As part of the recognition, she received a €3,000 (about $3,200) cash prize and international visibility associated with the prestigious honour.

    Expressing her gratitude after receiving the award, Atoyebi dedicated the recognition to her team and supporters.

    “This award means a lot to me. It’s a testament to the hard work my team and I have put in over the years. 

    “Being recognised on such an international stage proves that no effort toward positive change ever goes unnoticed. It motivates me to keep pushing boundaries and reaching more girls who need hope and opportunity,” she said.

    Her global recognition underscores Nigeria’s expanding footprint in the world of sports and social impact. 

    Atoyebi’s story now serves as a rallying call for young African women, a reminder that with passion, persistence, and purpose, they too can rise to shape a more inclusive and equitable world.

  • Steve Babaeko is IAA’s VP/ Area Director, Africa

    Steve Babaeko is IAA’s VP/ Area Director, Africa

    The International Advertising Association (IAA) has announced the election of Steve Babaeko, Group CEO and Chief Creative Officer of X3M Ideas, as Vice President and Area Director, Africa, on its Global Board.

    IAA is the world’s most influential network uniting marketing communications and media professionals.

    Babaeko will spearhead the IAA’s mission across the African continent, driving growth, amplifying African voices in global marketing conversations, and fostering stronger collaboration among practitioners, brands, and creative communities.

    “Africa is bold, creative, and bursting with potential. It’s time the world took notice and I am here to help make that happen,” said Babaeko. “This is more than a

    title; it’s a commitment to build bridges between markets, minds, and movements. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected global marketing community.”

    As VP and Area Director, Africa, Babaeko succeeds Mrs. Norkor Duah of Ghana, who provided years of visionary and strategic leadership that significantly expanded the IAA’s

    footprint across the continent. Building on her legacy, Babaeko aims to accelerate the association’s presence in emerging African markets, strengthen industry representation,

    and ensure that Africa’s creative energy resonates more powerfully on the global stage.

    Read Also: Hundreds of PDP members join APC in Oyo

    Babaeko’s election marks another milestone in a career defined by creativity, advocacy, and leadership. A former two-term President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of

    Nigeria (AAAN) and a Visiting Fellow at Henley Business School, UK, he has championed initiatives that empower the next generation of African marketing professionals while positioning African creativity as a global force.

    Under his leadership, X3M Ideas has grown from a Nigerian startup into one of Africa’s fastest-growing independent agency networks , with offices in South Africa, Zambia,

    Kenya, Congo Brazzaville, Dubai, and London and remains the only Nigerian and West African agency to

    have won a Cannes Lions Award.

    “The IAA has always stood for global collaboration and the advancement of marketing communications. Steve’s appointment embodies our belief that Africa is a critical voice in

    shaping the future of our industry,” said Frederik Borestrom, World President and Chairman of the IAA Global Board.

  • Magazine debuts to spotlight Africa’s trade innovators, entrepreneurs

    Magazine debuts to spotlight Africa’s trade innovators, entrepreneurs

    A new business publication, Traxis Magazine, has made its debut in Lagos with a bold mission, to tell the untold stories of Africa’s emerging trade champions and connect indigenous entrepreneurs to global investors.

    The magazine, described as a first-of-its-kind trade publication, aims to bridge the visibility gap for local businesses contributing to Nigeria’s and Africa’s economic growth. It was unveiled at a colourful event that brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry players committed to reshaping Africa’s trade narrative.

    Speaking at the launch, the Editor-in-Chief and Publisher, Ijeoma Okonkwo, said Traxis Magazine was birthed out of a desire to give visibility to hardworking entrepreneurs whose innovations often go unnoticed.

    “I’ve seen businesses thrive during exhibitions and trade shows but lose momentum afterward due to lack of visibility and access to funding. Traxis was created to amplify their stories and connect them to opportunities beyond Nigeria’s borders.” Okonkwo said.

    According to her, the magazine focuses on businesses that are “100 percent indigenous”, those sourcing raw materials locally and adding value through homegrown innovation.

    “Nigeria is a blessed nation with untapped resources. Many entrepreneurs are transforming these resources into products of global standard. Our goal is to tell their stories, attract investors, and open new markets for them,” she added.

    Okonkwo explained that Traxis Magazine will not be sold on newsstands but distributed strategically in places that attract high-value networks, such as embassies, airports, airlines, and luxury hotels, where investors and decision-makers can encounter the featured businesses.

    “We’re also partnering with airlines to feature business documentaries on in-flight entertainment systems, ensuring that global audiences see what Africa is capable of,” she said.

    Read Also: Hundreds of PDP members join APC in Oyo

    Among those who shared their entrepreneurial stories at the launch was Princess Adeyinka, founder and Chief Happiness Officer of Happy Coffee Nigeria, a homegrown coffee solutions brand.

    “It’s important for African women to see role models building strong, indigenous businesses. Nigeria is a blessed country with enormous potential. Despite personal losses and challenges, I believe in building the Nigeria of our dreams. No one else will do it for us.”she said.

    Adeyinka urged Nigerian entrepreneurs to “show up for their dreams,” describing business building as “a serious battle that requires mental and psychological preparedness.”

    Also speaking, Mr. Chibueze Obinwanne, co-founder of The Milk Booster, shared his experience running Nigeria’s first breast milk bank.

    “We help mothers who struggle with lactation to access safe breast milk for their babies,” he explained. “When we started, people were skeptical, but after three years, Nigerians are embracing the idea. We’ve seen an improvement in breastfeeding rates since 2017, and we can do more with better support.”

    Obinwanne, however, listed inadequate power supply, poor cold-chain logistics, and lack of funding as major challenges facing their operations.

    “Sometimes, I have to drive long distances just to deliver milk to a baby in need,” he said. “We need more collection centres across the country. If you have excess breast milk and live in Lagos or Abuja, you can reach out, your donation can save lives.”

    The launch of Traxis Magazine marks a new effort to highlight Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit and reposition African trade stories for global attention.

    By giving visibility to businesses that are transforming local resources into global products, Traxis hopes to fuel a renewed sense of confidence in Africa’s trade potential, one story at a time.