The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    SQN Foundation marks International Youth Day with skills empowerment drive in Lagos

    The Sine Qua Non (SQN) Foundation has celebrated International Youth Day 2025 with an empowerment programme in Isheri Olofin, Lagos, themed “From Passion to Profession: Vocational Skills for Youth Empowerment.”

    The event brought together youths, educators, entrepreneurs, and traditional leaders to promote the importance of equipping young people with practical skills to navigate the current economic challenges.

    Hosted by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Ibrahim Olasunkanmi Lawal-Bello of Isheri Olofin Kingdom — represented by Olori Bello — the monarch praised the initiative for prioritising vocational training.

    “Success today goes beyond academics. A skill can break financial barriers and help young people build a sustainable future,” she said, urging parents and youths to embrace hands-on learning as a pathway to self-reliance.

    Guest speaker and educationist, Mr. Tomi Otebade, cautioned that the white-collar job market is oversaturated.

    “Your degree is not enough anymore. We are in a global economic crisis, and the only way out is to pick up a skill,” he said, noting that many government-run training centres in Lagos remain underused due to low awareness.

    Otebade also commended SQN Foundation founder, Mr. Emmanuel Oyedepo, for his commitment to youth development, stating, “If we had more like him, our society would be much better.”

    Representing the founder, SQN Foundation Programme Manager, Mr. Henry Madufor, said the organisation’s mission is to redirect youths from excessive social media use to skill acquisition.

    “This programme is our way of showing that passion can be turned into a profession. We will sponsor selected participants for advanced vocational training and track their progress through mentorship,” he explained.

    Read Also: NSSF-backed Wamufat Youth Foundation’s sports clinic begins

    The event also featured practical advice from professionals, including lawyer and HR consultant, Mildred Jaja; fashion designer, Adewale Adetunji; and Oluchi, founder of Nails and Lush. They urged the youths to seize the opportunity, stressing that skills offer a more reliable path to stability than certificates alone.

    Charging the youth to take full advantage of opportunities on offer, Jaja said: “Many of us never got this chance of learning skills, so don’t waste it. Develop your skill, it will open doors, your certificate alone may not.”

    For Adetunji, he reminded the attendees that “education is great, but in this economy, it’s not enough. Skills are what will sustain you and your family.”

    On her part. Oluchi shared her journey into nail artistry and encouraged the youths to value customer service and product knowledge.

    “If you treat clients right, they’ll refer others. Learn well, and don’t rush into shortcuts,” she added.

    Closing the event, SQN Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to empowering Nigerian youths through scholarships, mentorship, and continuous engagement. Across all contributions, one message was clear: the future will belong to young people who are not only educated but also skilled, resourceful, and entrepreneurial.

  • Zacch Adedeji on a mission with people-centric reforms

    Zacch Adedeji on a mission with people-centric reforms

    The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is becoming more than a government agency. It is not today that we have been saying this, and it will not stop today or anytime soon. It is now being recognised as a partner in national development, driven by reforms that place people at the center and deliver measurable results.

    Over the past months, the leadership of Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman, FIRS, has introduced a series of people-focused changes that have shown a tangible impact on our revenue system and the economy at large. 

    His work has been based on practical reforms in tax law, improved welfare for staff and citizens, the adoption of technology to streamline processes, stronger teamwork across departments, and a leadership style grounded in clarity, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

    Just this August, the agency launched an electronic invoicing system for companies with an annual turnover of five billion naira or more. It went live on the first day of the month, and by the second week, about a thousand companies had already joined. Organizations like MTN, Huawei, and IHS are on board. Others have until November 1 to comply. The process is firm, but the rollout has been managed carefully, giving companies enough time to adjust without disruption.

    The effects are already showing. Afri Invoice, a local Nigerian company that provides e-invoicing solutions, has created 150 new jobs in seven states to meet the demand. It may seem small, but it serves as proof that one effective policy can open the door to more jobs and economic growth.

    Not long after, on August 7, FIRS held its first Research Day. It was not an event for long talks but a day of action and openness. Three (3) main resources were made public. The first was the Tax Revenue Statistical Bulletin, containing more than fifty years of tax data from 1970 to 2022. The second was the official Research Policy, which sets out a framework for conducting transparent and high-quality studies. 

    The third was the latest volume of the FIRS Journal of Tax Studies, now available online. These materials are open to researchers, journalists, students, policymakers, and anyone who wants to understand our tax history and the direction we are headed.

    Step by step, these reforms show that when leadership is focused on people and guided by data, institutions can transform. The work being done at FIRS today is building not only better systems but also trust between the government and the people it serves.

    Let’s not forget that under the Tax Boss, tax education and public engagement have also taken a new shape. FIRS has stepped up its outreach to small and medium enterprises, offering guidance on compliance and breaking down processes that once felt complicated and far removed from the everyday business owner. 

    The agency has also strengthened partnerships with state revenue services, ensuring that both federal and state systems work together rather than compete.

    Capacity building for staff has been prioritised, with training programs designed to give them the skills and tools to meet modern tax administration demands. In addition, reforms in dispute resolution have made it faster and easier for taxpayers to settle issues without lengthy court battles, promoting a more cooperative relationship between the agency and the general public. Digital platforms have been improved, meaning that many taxpayers can now register, file, and pay from the comfort of their offices or homes.

    Sometimes, you stop and wonder how one person can have so much vision while truly keeping the needs of people in mind. Dr. Zacch understands difficult challenges but never loses sight of those who live them every day. His efforts are effective, making changes that touch many lives. 

    The progress seen today comes from thoughtful decisions and a commitment to serve others. In a country where many lead for themselves, he leads for the people. When you think about leadership that combines critical thinking with care, the answer is not far-fetched. It can only be him.

    Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the technical assistant on broadcast media to the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service Contact@arabinrinaderonke.com

  • Ibadan will witness peace, development under Ladoja’s reign as Olubadan – Olugbode family

    Ibadan will witness peace, development under Ladoja’s reign as Olubadan – Olugbode family

    The descendants of Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode in Ita Baale, Ibadan, have expressed confidence that the city will experience greater development, peace, and tranquility during the reign of Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja.

    Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode, an Owu native, was the seventh traditional ruler of Ibadan, reigning between 1851 and 1864. 

    Historical records said that he was the one who introduced the Otun Olubadan line into the city’s chieftaincy structure.

    In a statement signed by Chief Tesleem Abiodun Olugbode, Mogaji of the Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family and released to journalists on Tuesday, the clan congratulated Ladoja on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing his wealth of political experience and business acumen as assets that will bring progress to the ancient city.

    The Otun Olubadan and former Oyo State governor was chosen by the Olubadan-in-Council to succeed the late 43rd Olubadan, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away last month. 

    The family, speaking on behalf of all Olugbode and Owu descendants in Ibadan, expressed optimism that Ladoja’s leadership will usher in a new era of development for Ibadanland.

    “On behalf of the entire Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode and other Owu descendants both at home and in the Diaspora in Ibadan, I am using this medium to congratulate the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja on his nomination as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. 

    “Our projenitor, Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode was the 7th Baale of Ibadan and reigned for thirteen (13) years, between 1851-1864. Baale Oyesile Olugbode was the one who introduced the Otun Olubadan line to Ibadan traditional system. 

    “As we know, all Ibadan indigenes hailed from one place or the other, Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode hailed from Owu. We have many families that are also from Owu in Ibadan and all of them are under Baale Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family. I am greeting Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja on behalf of all descendants of Olugbode and other Owu descendants in Ibadanland. 

    “The Ajayi Oyesile Olugbode family and other Owu descendants are happy today that Oba Ladoja has been nominated as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland by the Olubadan-in-Council. We have the conviction that his reign will witness more developmental projects, peace and tranquility. 

    “He is experienced, he has served as Senator, Governor and has served in different capacities at different times. As a former governor and business tycoon, we have the belief that he is capable to ensure that Ibadan wears a new look. 

    “We want to use this medium to appeal to all indigenes and residents of Ibadanland to give him the necessary support”.

  • Akiolu marks 22 years on throne with prayers

    Akiolu marks 22 years on throne with prayers

    Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, has marked 22 years on the throne with prayers.

    The event was attended by family members and palace staff, who hailed the monarch for his philanthropic gesture.

    Eldest child of the monarch, Fuad, hailed his father as a disciplinarian and commended him for instilling discipline in his children.

    He said since his father ascended the throne, he had remained close to God through prayers.

    “He’s a very prayerful man, that’s the only thing he knows. Even before, during and after his installation, he has remained a prayerful man.

    Read Also: Akiolu urges govt to enforce NHIS enrollment

    “If you have dedication and believe in God, nothing will happen to you. We thank God for keeping him alive.

    “My prayer is for him to surpass the years the former Oba of Lagos spent on the throne.

    “He’s a disciplined man and doesn’t take nonsense. If you offend him, he will tell you to your face,” Fuad said.

    Chief Imam of Isale Eko Mosque, Abdulbari Sabba, who led prayers for the monarch, lauded him for his philanthropic gestures.

    “We organised this prayer for our monarch, Oba Akiolu, to ask God to give him longevity on the throne and for Allah to spare his life.

    “He’s a good monarch, an exemplary leader. He’s a philanthropist who gives out a lot,” he said.

    Oba Akiolu was selected on May 23, 2003 by the kingmakers after the demise of Oba Oyekan.

    He was confirmed by the government as the 21st Oba of Lagos and was crowned on August 9, 2003.

  • Owo pushes for capital status in proposed Ose State

    Owo pushes for capital status in proposed Ose State

    Owo, the historic and economic hub of Ondo North Senatorial District, is at the centre of a heated debate over the proposed Ose State, as stakeholders, including Gbenga Eleduma, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), reject a bill naming Ikare-Akoko as the capital.

    Submitted to the National Assembly, the bill has sparked controversy, with Owo’s leaders insisting that the town’s historical significance, strategic location and infrastructural edge make it the rightful capital.

    At a recent stakeholder’s conference in Oke-Mapo, Owo, Eleduma said state creation in Nigeria depended on factors like population, geography, economic viability and infrastructure.

    “Owo is the undisputed economic and political heart of Ondo North,” Eleduma declared, underscoring the town’s storied legacy and its unmatched suitability as the capital of any new state.

    Read Also: Constitution review: Owo, Ose communities reject proposed Ose state capital in Ikare-Akoko

    The historical prominence of the town is undeniable. It was a key hub for the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and Afenifere, hosting personalities like Chief Adekunle Ajasin and Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

    He said Owo was once an administrative headquarters in the Southwest and remains a cultural powerhouse, producing renowned nationalists and monarchs of international acclaim.

    “Today, it hosts the Area Command Unit for Ondo North and serves as the primary venue for major district gatherings.”

    The conference, attended by Oba Ajibade Gbadegeshin Ogunoye III and other traditional rulers from Owo-Ose Federal Constituency, condemned the “misrepresentation” in the bill.

    “Owo’s strategic location and robust infrastructure make it the only logical choice for the capital,” Eleduma said, echoing the consensus among stakeholders to correct the narrative surrounding the proposed Ose State.

    Eleduma, a key stakeholder in Owo, stressed that the people of Ondo North were critical to the state creation process.

    He said sidelining Owo undermined the region’s shared history and unity.

    “If Ose State is created, Owo must be its capital,” the APC chieftain said, citing the town’s unparalleled contributions to the district’s political and economic landscape.

    He called on the National Assembly to recognise Owo’s historical and strategic advantages in the ongoing discourse.

  • No room for ADC coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    No room for ADC coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said those flouting the coalition to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election are day dreamers and unserious politicians, who have no better plans for the country.

    Speaking yesterday while receiving Dayo Awude, a former deputy governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), into the fold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa said there was no room for the coalition of the opposition figures in Ondo.

    The governor said the APC remained the sole rallying force for credible politicians in the state ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa inaugurates committee to revitalise Ondo football clubs

    “In Ondo State, there is no room for coalition. It is one APC. People join political parties for different reasons, but the interest of the party must always supersede every other interest, and for us in the APC, that interest is to retain power,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa praised the defectors led by Awude under the Sunshine Grassroots Network (SGN), saying they had made the right decision ahead of the general election to join the APC.

    He told the defectors to begin grassroots mobilisation in earnestly for the party ahead of the general election, saying APC must retain power at the federal and state levels.

    “You have made the right decision. This is the right place to be because the utmost interest for any political party is to be in power. For us in APC, we want to retain power, and we must do everything that is needed to retain power.

    “We acknowledge that you have decided to join us. Your coming will be rewarded. As you can see, the dividends of good governance are showing itself under the leadership of President Tinubu and I as your governor in the state.

    “Our declaration for Asiwaju is that Ondo State is for Tinubu in 2027. The whole of Ondo State is for Tinubu in 2027, and to realise this, you have decided to join us. We know winning Ondo State is not an issue but to have overwhelming votes, and you are the evidence of those votes,” he said.

    Awude, who ran alongside LP’s governorship candidate, Sola Ebiseeni, in 2023, said he joined the APC to add value, adding that he was willing to support President Tinubu and Governor Aiyedatiwa’s developmental agenda.

    Ade Adetimehin, the state chairman of the APC, who welcomed the defectors, urged them to strengthen the party from the grassroots.

    He also urged them to begin canvassing votes for the party, starting at their unit and ward levels.

    The latest defection marks a blow to the LP’s influence, especially in Ondo State and its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as political realignment intensifies ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Obi had joined Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and ex-minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, to form the coalition of opposition figures in African Democratic Congress (ADC).

  • Abiodun urges judiciary on fairness, integrity

    Abiodun urges judiciary on fairness, integrity

    • Governor swears in three judges

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun yesterday swore in three additional judges into the Ogun State judiciary.

    He said the people must see them as the hope for justice, the shield against oppression and the assurance that right would always prevail over might.

    The new judges are Mr. Julius Ojikutu, who was the chief registrar of Ogun State High Court, Abeokuta; Mrs. Adejumoke Adewole, former permanent secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development; and Mrs. Oluyemisi Adebo, ex-secretary of  Ogun State Judicial Service Commission.

    Abiodun urged the new judges to ensure they made fairness, integrity and justice their guiding light, noting that the country’s democracy thrived because judges of conscience stood firm in defending the ethos of democratic institutions without fear or favour.

    He further advised the judges to let the fear of God, their conscience and the Constitution of Nigeria guide their judgments.

    Read Also: I love to make people happy with my DJ skills, says Super Falcons’ star Deborah Abiodun

    He said the country required judges who were not only learned in the law, but also upright in character and resolute in conduct.

    The governor enjoined them to be fair, firm and courageous in the face of pressure and always place the interest of justice and the people above personal interests.

    “This is not merely a legal obligation; it is a moral one, ensuring justice is felt in tangible ways by every citizen regardless of tribe, religion, political affiliation, or economic status.

    “You must therefore continue to uphold the sacred principles of the separation of powers, ensuring the Executive, Legislative and Judiciary operate independently, yet harmoniously, all within the constitutional framework for the good of the people.

    “Let me restate that our government is a responsible and responsive administration that fully appreciates the role of the judiciary in nurturing democracy.

    “I stand here today a grateful beneficiary of the courage, impartiality and fidelity to the rule of law shown by our courts.

    “We will continue to respect court judgments, support the judiciary with resources and enhance the processes that guarantee swift and fair dispensation of justice,” he said.

  • UK-based firm empowers 500 Nigerians with skills

    UK-based firm empowers 500 Nigerians with skills

    A United Kingdom-registered social enterprise with deep Nigerian roots, ‘QwiqKraft’, has empowered over five hundred Nigerian youths to encourage self-employment, equipped them with practical, income-generating skills in printing, branding and entrepreneurship.

    Nigerian youths have been beneficiaries of the empowerment since the organisation’s existence in 2020, by training them on creative branding like Mug, t-shirt, cap printing, digital design, product packaging and presentation, as well as social media strategies.

    Speaking with journalists after the free skill acquisition training programme for some youths in Ilorin, Founder and Lead Strategist of QwiqKraft, Adedayo Abayomi, said his vision was a step towards actualising economic freedom and self-worth for Nigerian youths.

    Abayomi, a UK-based human capacity development advocate, said the empowerment was a passion and legacy that provides training estimated between N3.5 million to N5 million per training, including materials, facilitation, venue, and post-training support, depending on location and scale.

    He said, “This reflects our commitment to quality, not just quantity. Because we believe empowerment should be practical, dignified, and transformative. We go beyond theory to equip youth and women with real tools, real skills, and real hope. Every mug printed, every design created, every story shared — it’s a step toward economic freedom and self-worth.

    “We do this because we’ve seen the spark in their eyes when they realise. I can do this. I can earn. I can grow. And that’s a legacy worth building. We didn’t come to donate, we came to demonstrate.

    “It was sacrificial. Every mile I travelled, every machine hauled, every hour spent under the sun was a testament to QwiqKraft’s unwavering belief that empowerment must be felt, not just promised.

    “In Lagos, the energy was electric. Within hours, they were printing on mugs, mouse pads, and t-shirts — watching their ideas come to life in full colour. Thanks to LIGHT View Initiative, RCCG Place of Peace, Lagos, for providing data and moral support.

    Read Also: Our Heritage UK to host Global Virtual talk on Art, AI

    “In Ilorin, the turnout exceeded expectations. Thanks to the support of OCDI and the Kwara State community, the training reached a wide range of participants. Women who had never touched a heat press were producing branded items with pride. One participant said. I came unsure. I’m leaving unstoppable.

    “And in Jos, where hope often battles hardship, the hunger to learn was palpable. With facilitation support from CSRaP (UK), the training became a beacon of possibility.”

    He, however, urged government, organisations and other stakeholders to step forward in facilitating a printing hub where youth and women can access equipment, mentorship and market-ready training.

  • 2027: Ogun West reaffirms support for Tinubu, Yayi

    2027: Ogun West reaffirms support for Tinubu, Yayi

    Ogun West Senatorial District yesterday endorsed the re-election aspiration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, reaffirming that on “his mandate” in 2027 the zone stands.

    The people, who hailed President Tinubu for staying the course on his bold reforms and other interventions to get the nation’s economy back to the path of buoyancy and prosperity, unanimously chorused his mandate in 2027.

    They also expressed their support for the lawmaker representing Ogun West and Senate Committee Chairman on Appropriation, Dr Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, aka Yayi, for his effective representation and commitment to the success of the President.

    Ogun West expressed its solidarity with the President and Senator Adeola at the Asade Agunloye Pavilion, Ilaro, the headquarters of Yewa South Local Government, during a massively attended event organised by supporters and associates of Senator Adeola to give him a befitting birthday in absentia to demonstrate their love, affection and support for him.

    Similar celebrations for the senator’s birthday also took place yesterday in Abeokuta (Ogun Central), Ijebu Igbo (Ogun East) and in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    The Chairman, Central Planning Committee of the event and the Commissioner of Housing, Jamiu  Omoniyi, expressed delight that friends and supporters of the senator could come together to honour him and appreciate his unprecedented performance in the National Assembly.

    Also, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq  Salako, disclosed that the birthday celebration was organised by the friends and core supporters of Senator Adeola, to celebrate his accomplishments as a senator representing Ogun West.

    Read Also: Group deploys sports to rally grassroots support for Tinubu

    Speaking with reporters at the event, Salako said they decided to pool resources together to celebrate and honour Senator Adeola at 56 in demonstration of their love, affection and support for him.

    In a concerted move in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda on Infrastructure of the administration of President Tinubu, Senator Adeola (Ogun West) has facilitated the donation and energisation of 102 electric transformers for 435 Community Development Areas (CDAs) spread across all senatorial districts of Ogun State.

    The transformers of different specifications according to the requirement of each benefitting localities include 500kva/33, 500kva/11, 300kva/33 and 300kva/11. They were presented yesterday to representatives of communities on the sidelines of the celebration of Senator Adeola’s 56th birthday at Asade Agunloye Pavilion, Ilaro in Yewa South Local Government.

    Seventeen local governments in Ogun State benefitted from this scheme of “Light Up Ogun State”, namely Yewa North, Ado Odo Ota, Yewa South, Abeokuta North, Ifo, Obafemi Owode, Ewekoro and Sagamu. Others are Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu, Ipokia, Ijebu North East, Ikenne, Ijebu East, Remo North, Abeokuta South and Ijebu North.

    Speaking through his media aide, Chief Kayode Odunaro, in a statement, Adeola said he elected to facilitate the 102 transformers after his office was inundated with many requests for transformers by many communities, adding that it was a thing of joy for him to bring light to homes and businesses through the provision of transformers and their energisation.

    Related to the provision of transformers in the “Light Up Ogun State” is the provision and installation of solar power street lights along streets, markets, communities and palaces with over 16500 poles installed so far across Ogun West Senatorial District and beyond.

  • ‘Ovia by-election, litmus test to APC success in 2027’

    ‘Ovia by-election, litmus test to APC success in 2027’

    Edo Deputy Governor, Mr Dennis Idahosa, has described Saturday’s Ovia federal constituency by-election as a litmus test for the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Idahosa spoke yesterday during the party’s campaign launch for the by-election in Ovia South West Local Government.

    He urged party leaders and members to intensify mobilisation and canvassing efforts to ensure victory for the APC, stressing that unity and commitment were key to success.

    “On the part of the government, Governor Monday Okpebholo has embarked on infrastructural transformation of the federal constituency to make life more meaningful for the people,” he said.

    Addressing residents of Siluko Ward, Idahosa noted that the community, besides its large population, was one of the gateways into Edo, making it strategic for development.

    He said the best way to support the governor’s development agenda was to work for the APC’s victory in Saturday’s poll.

    “Saturday’s by-election is to show our preparedness for the 2027 general election. I want it to be a 100 per cent win for the APC.

    “Be reminded that all the good things that have come to Siluko ward were facilitated by the APC government.

    “We are not taking this election for granted. When you get home, tell your family and neighbours that APC is one way, vote for Omosede Igbinedion, the only female candidate for the National Assembly from Edo State,” he said.

    Igbinedion described the deputy governor as a grassroots politician who had worked for the transformation of the federal constituency.

    Read Also: Speaker Abbas chairs presidential panel on Bauchi APC reconciliation

    She appealed to the people not to relent on their support for the deputy governor, as well as the APC for more infrastructural development.

    “Even in the cause of these campaigns, he (Idahosa) has brought some more projects to our communities.

    “With your votes on Saturday, I am going to complement his efforts in Abuja for the total transformation of our constituency,” she said.

    Sen. Neda Imasuen said as a second term member of the House, Igbinedion would be able to identify lapses she made in her first term, correct them and influence projects for the betterment of her constituents.

    The council Chairman, Nosakhare Edobo, said the governor had shown commitment to the people to deserve their support.