The Nation Newspaper

Category: South West

  • Governance: Nigerian youth have moved from hashtags to headlines

    Governance: Nigerian youth have moved from hashtags to headlines

    The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is not a political slogan, rather,  a living testament to visionary leadership, anchored on the empowerment of the Nigerian youth.

    This was disclosed by the Lagos APC Publicity Secretary, Seye Oladejo.

    According to Oladejo, “For decades, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has demonstrated a rare and consistent belief in the energy, intellect, and innovation of young Nigerians. From Lagos to Abuja, his political philosophy has been clear: groom the young, trust their talent, and watch them transform society. Today, that same philosophy has become the foundation of Nigeria’s national renaissance.”

    Oladejo noted that while others merely paid lip service to youth development, President Tinubu has put concrete structures in place – from NELFUND (Student Loan Scheme) and CreditCorp, to 3MTT, NITDA Talent Hunt, and the Digital Innovation Support Fund.

    He stated further that the administration’s renewed focus on free technical education across the nation was strategically geared toward youth empowerment and the promotion of entrepreneurship. “This is not charity; it is investment – an investment in skills, in innovation, and in the future of Nigeria’s workforce.

    “By creating avenues for young Nigerians to acquire practical skills and start enterprises, President Tinubu is building a generation that is not waiting for handouts, but creating value, wealth, and opportunities for others.”

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    The Lagos APC Publicity Secretary further noted that the future is no longer tomorrow – the Future is now, saying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has boldly redefined the old political cliché that says “the future belongs to the youth.” Under his Renewed Hope Agenda, the future is no longer tomorrow – the future is now.

     “From his cabinet appointments to policy priorities, the President has placed young Nigerians at the center of governance. He has shown that youth inclusion is not an act of benevolence, but a strategy for national greatness. The energy of our young people is now a national asset being fully harnessed – not wasted, not sidelined.”

    He  took a swipe at the opposition, saying it had no vision, but dwells on criticism without substance.

    “It is ironic that the same opposition that neglected the youth for years now tries to deceive them with shallow activism and social media slogans. The truth is simple: the Nigerian youth are smarter than the propaganda. They have seen who genuinely invests in their future  – and who only remembers them at election time.

    “The APC government is not tweeting promises; it is teaching, training, financing, and employing the youth. Every policy under the Renewed Hope Agenda carries one central objective – to build a Nigeria where the youth are creators of wealth, not casualties of unemployment.

    “Here in Lagos, the template is already proven. The Tinubu model of governance – which elevated countless young men and women to positions of leadership – remains the most successful political leadership academy in Nigeria’s democratic history. That Lagos legacy of youth inclusion has now been elevated to the national level, through deliberate policies that merge experience with energy, and wisdom with innovation,” Lagos APC said.

    The Lagos APC scribe, therefore, called on Nigerian youth to rise and take ownership of this defining moment, adding, the Renewed Hope Agenda is your platform, your chance, your movement. Under Tinubu, youth empowerment has moved beyond rhetoric to results – from hashtags to headlines, and from potential to performance.

    “Those who cling to outdated politics of bitterness and blame are free to stay behind. The rest of us are moving forward – building, creating, and leading under a President who has proven that the Nigerian youth are not the leaders of tomorrow, but the champions of today.”

  • 2027: LG boss predicts landslide victory for Tinubu

    2027: LG boss predicts landslide victory for Tinubu

    The Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, Princess Surah Animashaun has predicted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win the 2027 presidential election with a landslide.

    Animashaun maintained that the victory was already guaranteed considering the superlative performances of Mr. President so far, especially in repositioning the country’s economy and others.

    The chairperson made this known while briefing newsmen at the council secretariat, Ita-Marun, Epe, after the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu to contest for a second term in office in 2027, on Tuesday, October 21 at a stakeholders’ forum, held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos.

    She said that the stakeholders’ meeting was to engage the Nigerians, especially, the Lagosians to mobilise the people on the importance of the 2027 general elections and for the people to get registered in the ongoing voter registration.

    Animashaun, who highlighted several socio-economic and security reforms within the last two years, noted that President Tinubu inherited an economy that was in comatose and expressed appreciation that the country is now on the path of prosperity.

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    She urged Nigerians, Lagosians, as well as Epe residents to have faith in the APC-led administration, pointing out that as challenging as it may look for the common man, very soon, it will translate to improved welfare for the people.

    Animashaun called on Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing voter registration to get registered, maintaining that their votes are their power, saying that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

    She lauded the leadership of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the state for following in the footsteps of the president, saying that, thus far, Lagos state has been repositioned for good governance and development.

  • Why Tinubu should be re-elected, by Abiru

    Why Tinubu should be re-elected, by Abiru

    Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru has explained why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should be re-elected in the 2027 poll.

    He described the president as a courageous, visionary and transformational leader, whose reforms are bearing fruits.

    Abiru lauded the bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, unification of the foreign exchange market, and redirection of resources to key sectors, which have restored economic stability and fiscal discipline.

    He spoke at the endorsement of the president by the All Progressives Congress (APC) faithful in Lagos.

    Justifying the call for continuity, Abiru said: “Two years ago, Nigerians entrusted him with the leadership of our nation at one of the most difficult moments in our modern history. The economy was distressed, public confidence shaken, and our national direction uncertain.

    “Yet, true to his courage and  visionary spirit, President Tinubu chose the harder but more  honourable path: the path of reform, restructuring, and  renewal.”

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    Abiru, who represents Lagos East District in the Senate, highlighted key achievements of the administration, including, the NELFUND educational loans for over 510,000 students, CrediCorp loans worth ₦30 billion to 150,000 Nigerians, the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, and Project Bridge, a 90,000km fibre optic network powering digital transformation.

    He applauded the synergy between the National Assembly and the Executive, noting that landmark laws, including the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act (NIIRA) 2025, Student Loan Act, Electricity Act Amendment, Data Protection Act, and Police Reform Bill, Security Agency Acts, Nigerian Broadcasting Commission (Amendment)  Bill and Startup Act implementation framework, both  aimed at deepening innovation, protecting local content,  and nurturing tech ecosystem; and Revenue Administration Harmonisation Bill, have strengthened the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He said: “These legislative interventions are the backbone of the President’s reforms, providing legal and institutional stability.”

    Abiru, who is the Chairman of the Southern Senators’ Forum, reaffirmed Lagos’ historic role in progressive governance, recalling how President Tinubu’s era as Lagos governor set the foundation for fiscal innovation and inclusive growth, which is now replicated nationwide.

  • Oworonsoki demolition: Lagos begins payment of compensation to displaced dwellers

    Oworonsoki demolition: Lagos begins payment of compensation to displaced dwellers

    The Lagos State Government through the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA) has begun payment of compensation to verified residents of the Oworonsoki community in the Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State.

    The beneficiaries are those whose houses were demolished in recent clearance operations.

    The event, which commenced on October 23  at the palace of the traditional ruler of Oworonshoki, drew community leaders, officials from LASURA, representatives of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and civil society groups amongst others.

    At a press conference held yesterday, the Director General of LASURA, Mr Oladimeji Animashaun who supervised the exercise, explained that a total of 80 beneficiaries had been identified and compensated between Thursday and Friday.

    “We started the payment of compensation yesterday(Thursday), and several residents have received their cheques.

    “The total number of people being compensated is 80. This is proof that what Mr. Governor promised has been fulfilled,” he said.

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    Animashaun commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his support, as well as the Special Adviser to the governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Abiodun Babatunde, and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Urban Development, Mr Gbolahan  Oki, for their coordination in ensuring that government policies were effectively implemented.

    On the issue of notification, Animashaun dismissed allegations that affected residents were not informed before the demolition.

    He explained that the area had been declared a regeneration zone over five years ago.

    “Government does not just move into an area without due notice. Many of these residents have been aware for years that their community falls under a regeneration plan.

    “Some people deny knowledge, but due process was followed,” he added.

    The LASURA boss disclosed that compensation amounts varied depending on property type, ranging between N3 million and N5 million, with smaller amounts for makeshift structures such as kiosks and shanties.

    “Someone with a bungalow cannot get the same compensation as someone with a storey building. The payments were fair, and you could see smiles on people’s faces as they received their cheques,” he said.

    When asked about the government’s long-term plan for the regenerated land, the LASURA boss said the intention was to create a well-planned, modern community with improved living conditions.

    “Urban regeneration is about replacing unhealthy, unsafe environments with planned communities that meet modern standards.

    “That is what the Sanwo-Olu administration is committed to achieving in Oworonshoki,” he noted.

    Hon. Okanlawon Sanni, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, representing Kosofe Constituency I , who was also present at the exercise, described the payment as “a practical demonstration of Sanwo-Olu’s compassion and commitment to urban renewal with a human face.”

    According to Sanni, the regeneration project marks a major step toward transforming Oworonshoki into a modern, livable community.

    “What we are witnessing today is not just about demolitions, it is about development with dignity.

    ” The affected residents are being duly compensated in line with the Governor’s assurance that no one will suffer unjustly in the process of renewing Lagos,” he said.

    He commended LASURA for ensuring that the process was transparent and humane, adding that the state government’s intention was to give Oworonsoki a new lease of life through improved housing, better drainage systems, potable water and accessible roads.

    Hon. Sanni appealed to the affected residents to remain calm and cooperative, assuring that the government’s action was in the public interest.

     “I understand the emotions involved, but Lagos is growing and we must plan our space responsibly. The ultimate goal is to make Oworonshoki a place where families can live in safety and comfort,” he said.

    The residents expressed satisfaction with the compensation received, two of the beneficiaries spoke with journalists, Chioma Idoko and Taiwo Solola, they both got N200,000.

    They said it was better than nothing and they thanked the Lagos State government for the compensation.

  • TRACE boss, others proffer solution to traffic lockdown in Ewekoro

    TRACE boss, others proffer solution to traffic lockdown in Ewekoro

    The most senior official of Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), Elias Omonayajo, who is currently administering the affairs of the agency, recently led other personnel to control traffic and proffer a better solutions to the gridlocks at Ewekoro on Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway in Ogun.

    The ever-busy expressway, it was gathered, has been totally locked-down leaving hundreds of vehicles and trucks stuck in stampede for some days now due to the ongoing road construction by Craneburg Construction Company.

    This issue has raised concerns as road users both drivers and commuters groaned in pain over the stress they have been going through on the highway.

    When reporters visited the axis on Tuesday, vehicles and trucks were on standstill.

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    But hope was, however, rekindled when TRACE officials took over with the deploying advanced traffic management techniques in collaboration with the Construction Company and Lafarge Cement Plc, to ensure effective traffic management is guaranteed in addition to zero tolerance to disobedience to traffic rules and regulations by motoring public.

    In his words, Cdr. Omonayajo said: “The gridlock has been on for about three (3) days due to the ongoing reconstruction work on both sides of the expressway, but TRACE is here to control and manage the traffic for orderliness to prevail.”

  • OPC seeks Mr President’s support for local security outfits to combat crime

    OPC seeks Mr President’s support for local security outfits to combat crime

    The Oodua People’s Congress reformed (OPC-R) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the engagement of local security outfits in combating crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry in parts of the southwest region.

    Speaking during a press briefing held on Thursday in Lagos, President of the group, Comrade Dare Adesope, also urged Tinubu to equip local security outfits to complement the efforts of the law enforcement agencies.

    Adesope noted that like Ondo, Oyo, and Ogun have witnessed a recent surge in insecurity, especially along highways and remote villages, leaving residents in fear and economic activities disrupted.

    “The federal security agencies are overstretched. The OPC (R) has the grassroots advantage, but they lack adequate weapons, training, and logistics to operate effectively.

    ”Yoruba people in Kwara, Kogi and Ekiti  States are being oppressed on their own soil; the police force is trying its best but OPC- R members can complement  their  efforts because they are more familiar with their communities like the back of their palms and can fish criminals out from their hideout,” he said.

    Adesope further said that his members have deep-rooted connections with their people, understands their terrain,  language, and the hidden dynamics of their communities, making them valuable assets in tackling local threats such as banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery.

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    He argue that supporting local security outfits with proper legislation, funding, and modern equipment will complement federal efforts and enhance quick response to threats. 

    ”As a Yoruba son, President Tinubu is being urged to show leadership by ensuring that the South-West does not slide into lawlessness. Ignoring these warning signs may escalate the crisis beyond control if urgent steps are not taken. It is also important to recognize and formally include traditional rulers in the nation’s security architecture. As custodians of culture and community leadership, traditional rulers have long played a stabilizing role in local conflict resolution, intelligence gathering, and peacekeeping.

    ”I  want to advise our royal fathers to stay united in this sensitive period and team up to face this insecurity that is ravaging their territories.  We, members of OPC reformed are ready to defend our people but we shall need their support.”

  • YYC commends Ooni, Ogunsua for peaceful coexistence between Ife, Modakeke

    YYC commends Ooni, Ogunsua for peaceful coexistence between Ife, Modakeke

    The Yoruba Youth Council has commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi Ooni, and the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Kariola, for ending the decades-long conflict between Ife and Modakeke.

    The national president of YYC, Aare Ayodele Gbologe, announced this in a communique issued at the end of the association’s stakeholders meeting held on Monday at Okitipupa, Ondo State.

    Gbologe, while reiterating the association’s commitment to promoting Yoruba unity, culture, and peace, urged Yoruba villages and towns in dispute over land, politics, or royal stool, to emulate selfless leaders like Oba Ogunwusi and Oba Kariola.

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    The YYC president stated that anyone who builth the youth, builds the nation, praying for the spirit of their ancestors to continue to guide all the leaders in Yoruba land.

    “Our communique will not be complete without acknowledging some Yorubas who have demonstrated the highest level of Omoluabi in their respective political portfolios,” he said.

    In light of this, he appreciated Mrs Kemi Nana Nandap, Mr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Dr Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, Dr Mathew Olumide Adepoju, and others, who he said have made Yoruba land proud.

    “Our future starts from now, and we are conscious of our roles in the task of nation-building,” he concluded.

  • Ondo officially transfers UNIMED Teaching Hospital Akure complex to FG

    Ondo officially transfers UNIMED Teaching Hospital Akure complex to FG

    The Ondo State government has formally transferred the Akure Teaching Hospital complex of the state-owned University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED) to the Federal Government.

    The facility, now renamed the Federal University of Technology Akure Teaching Hospital (FUTATH), will serve as a medical education, training, and research centre for students of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), while also providing specialized healthcare services to the public.

    The ceded hospital is one of three teaching hospital complexes previously under UNIMED, leaving the university with two — located at the Medical Village, Laje Road, and Hospital Road in Ondo City.

    Speaking during the official handover and unveiling ceremony in Akure, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, said the move was a strategic decision to deepen medical education and research in Nigeria.

    “The decision to hand over this hospital is rooted in a clear and strategic vision to elevate the standard of healthcare for every citizen of Ondo State and the country as a whole,” Aiyedatiwa said.

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    “By handing over this asset to the Federal Government, we are unlocking access to superior funding, advanced equipment, specialized personnel, and inclusion in national and international research networks.

    “It ensures a future where our citizens will have access to an expanded array of specialist services and improved research opportunities.”

    The governor lauded President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing the health and well-being of Nigerians under the Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring staff of a smooth transition under the new federal management.

    “As I sign this instrument of transfer today, I see not just a transfer of an asset, but the gifting of a greater future to the Sunshine State,” he added.

    “This institution will become a globally recognised centre of medical excellence, saving countless lives and defining a new era of healthcare in Nigeria.”

    In his remarks, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the new federal teaching hospital would transform the health landscape of Ondo State and the nation in terms of training, research, and service delivery.

    “It is with deep humility that I come here, with the delegated authority of President Bola Tinubu, to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) transferring the UNIMED Teaching Hospital to become the new Federal University of Technology Akure Teaching Hospital,” Pate said.

    “I want to thank the governor and his team for their remarkable collaboration and facilitation that made today possible.”

    The minister also acknowledged the support of notable figures in the state, including elder statesman Pa Reuben Fasoranti and the Deji of Akure, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo.

    In his goodwill message, Oba Aladetoyinbo expressed appreciation to the President and the Governor for the seamless transition and pledged the support of the host community for the success of the new teaching hospital.

    The highlight of the event was the signing of the MoU and unveiling of the complex, marking the official take-off of FUTA Teaching Hospital.

  • Lagos begins compensation for Oworonshoki demolition

    Lagos begins compensation for Oworonshoki demolition

    The Lagos State Government has commenced the payment of compensation to affected residents of Oworonshoki in Kosofe Local Government Area, whose houses were demolished in the ongoing urban renewal and regeneration programme in the area.

    The exercise, which began on Thursday was described as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to humane and inclusive urban development. 

    A total of 79 beneficiaries were verified for compensation, to be paid in two batches with the first group receiving their cheques on Thursday, while the second batch were attended to on Friday at the same venue.

    Speaking during the ceremony at the palace of the traditional ruler of Oworonshoki, the General Manager, Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), Olajide Animashaun, said the payment followed a series of verification, engagement, and enumeration exercises carried out in collaboration with community stakeholders.

    Animashaun said the regeneration initiative became necessary due to the proliferation of illegal and dilapidated structures within Oworonshoki, many of which were built on drainage channels and waterways, posing serious environmental and safety risks.

     “Oworonshoki is one of the communities earmarked under the state’s comprehensive urban renewal and regeneration plan. Many of the affected structures were unsafe for habitation and constituted environmental hazards. However, in line with the inclusive governance policy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, the state made a commitment to compensate verified affected residents  and today, that promise is being fulfilled,” Animashaun said.

    He commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Lagosians, noting that the compensation reflected the government’s sincerity and accountability in implementing its urban renewal policies.

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    Animashaun also commended the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Oki, for their dedication and tireless efforts toward the realization of the initiative.

    The event was attended by representatives of the Oworonshoki traditional council, Community Development Associations (CDAs), Community Development Council (CDC) members, civil society organizations, security agencies, and the media.

    The Lagos State Government had, in recent months, cleared several illegal and substandard structures across Oworonshoki as part of efforts to reclaim right-of-way for drainage systems, improve environmental conditions, and enhance public safety.

    One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Ajimoh Oyenuga, said: “The government gave us this money as compensation for the houses demolished on Precious Street, Oworonshoki. We are grateful because it shows that the government cares about our wellbeing.”

    Another beneficiary, Mrs. Olaide Fatima, added: “My house was close to the water, and it wasn’t safe. The government promised to compensate us, and today they have done it. I really appreciate this gesture  promise made, promise kept.”

  • Southwest NANS hails Davido’s appointment as Osun Sports Trust Fund Chairman

    Southwest NANS hails Davido’s appointment as Osun Sports Trust Fund Chairman

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke over the appointment of Afrobeat icon, David Adeleke (Davido), as Chairman of the Osun State Sports Trust Fund. 

    The student body said the appointment was not only a bold step toward sports development but also a rare blend of influence, innovation and excellence in governance.

    A statement by Assistant General Secretary of NANS (Southwest), Comr. Adeyemo Josiah Kayode said the inclusion of Davido, a household name and international figure in Adeleke’s administration’s is a clear signal that Osun State is redefining leadership, embracing youth potential, and unlocking the creative and philanthropic strength of its citizens.

    Adeyemo said the decision of the Governor demonstrated deep understanding of how celebrity influence can drive sustainable funding, global partnerships, and renewed passion for sports among young people in the state and beyond.

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    According to him: “We are equally elated by the state government’s unwavering commitment to completing the Osogbo Township Stadium to Olympic standards, a landmark that will boost youth engagement, talent development, and socio-economic growth. 

    “Furthermore, the proposed establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission is a commendable policy framework that shows the government’s dedication to long-term sports management, infrastructure development, and institutional excellence.

    “As representatives of millions of Nigerian students, we affirm that this initiative has not gone unnoticed. The student community across the Southwest stands in full admiration and support of this forward-thinking stride. 

    “We salute the Adeleke-led administration for continually giving room for youth inclusion and practical development. We look forward to collaborative platforms where students can also contribute to this sports revolution. Osun is truly rising, and history will be kind to this administration.”