The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Makinde, Mbah, Ministers, Dabiri-Erewa, others harp on diaspora support against medical tourism

    Makinde, Mbah, Ministers, Dabiri-Erewa, others harp on diaspora support against medical tourism

    Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, his Enugu State counterpart, Peter Mbah, the Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, his counterpart at Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhhamad Alli Pate, the Chairman/Chief Execurive Officer, Nigerians in Diaapora Commission (NIDCOM), Dr Abike Dabiri-Erewa on Wednesday called on foreign based medical experts of Nigerian to consider deploying their skills and expertise to boosting the health sector in a bid to reverse medical tousirm.

    Noting that many experts are keying into the idea of giving back to the society through their expertise and medical profession, the signatories promised relevant support to ensure that willing Nigerians in Diaspora play good roles to help improve the health sector. 

    The speakers made the remarks in their separate speeches at the Commissioning of Block C, the first of six blocks of the student’s hostel building project of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (CoMUI).

    The building was donated by a member of the 1985 Alumni set of the College, Dr Philip Ozuah.

    Ozuah, a physician, educator and healthcare Executive currently serve as the President and CEO of Montefiore Medicine, the umbrella organisation for Montefiore Health System and Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA.

    The Nation reports that Ozuah had on August 1, 2022 donated the sum of $1million USD for the project.

    Speakers at the event lauded Ozuah’s generosity and encouraged other Nigerians in the diaspora to emulate his example. 

    Both Governor Makinde and Governor Mbah were represented at the event by their deputies: Bayo Lawal and Ifeanyi Ossai respectively.

    The governors urged other Diasporians to emulate and contribute to the upliftment of humanity, saying that institutions all over the world live on the strength of benevolence and generosity of their alumnus and urge for increased support.

    Highlighting the challenges facing medical education in Nigeria, including limited capacity and brain drain, Lawal emphasized the need for stakeholders to work together to expand facilities and train more medical professionals.

    Ossai on his part, while commending Dr. Ozuah for his philanthropic gesture said the state governments are ready to partner NIDCOM in encouraging other Nigerians in the diaspora to follow suit in a bid to improving the medical and health sector while also tackling the japa menace among health practitioners. 

    In his remarks, Minister for Education, Dr Maruf Alausa, described the Philip Ozuah hostel as a symbol of unwavering commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s health care system and a powerful testament to the enduring values of philanthropy, patriotism, and service to humanity.

    Dr. Alausa, who was represented by the director in the office of the Directorate Senior Secondary Education, Mr. Adewale Aderibigbe, said the contribution reflects a spirit of giving that transcends borders and reminds individuals that roots remain firmly planted in Nigeria and therefore urged that the hostel should serve as a beacon of hope, service, and excellence.

    Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who spoke through Dr. Jimoh Salaudeen, the director of health services, said that the donation would compliment the effort of the federal government to increase the admission quota of all health workers by the university to address the incessant brain drain and upgrading facilities required by the students in the university.

    Chairman Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission, Honorable (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa speaking at the commissioning said, doctors working with other healthcare professionals in the country can change the face of medical tourism and reverse medical tourism.

    She recounted that, in the last four years, about 10 hospitals have been built by diaspora doctors, with one just commissioned in Abuja, the African Medical Center of Excellence, an indication that Nigerian doctors are returning to Nigeria to give back.

    She said, “I’m sure our doctors in the diaspora can turn it around. We can have a situation where people come to Nigeria for their health needs rather than going out. However, who do you meet when you go out? A lot of them are Nigerian doctors.

    “So working with them, I’m sure that can happen. We can change the face of medical tourism and reverse medical tourism in the diaspora by working with our health practitioners at home. We also believe that if they come together collectively, they can build a medical center of excellence. Because we have the capacity, we have the numbers, all we need is the structural organisation to make it happen.”

    The Consul General of the Nigerian Mission in New York also commended Dr. Ozuah for his generosity and encouraged other Nigerians in the diaspora to engage with the mission. He recounted the various ways the donor has been supportive of the Nigeria project while also flying the country’s flag high through his philanthropic gestures.

    UI’s Vice chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale celebrated Prof. Ozuah’s legacy and his commitment to his roots, saying his decision to champion and substantially fund the hostel project reflects his unwavering belief in giving back and empowering the next generation of medical professionals.

    Read Also: Makinde, others mourn prominent Ibadan businessman Ajadi

    According to him, quality accommodation is a critical component of academic success; having a comfortable, secure, and conducive living environment is not a luxury, but a necessity.

    “The success of this project should serve as a clarion call to other alumni and friends of the university; there is still much work to be done to advance our infrastructure and academic offerings. Let us emulate Professor Ozuah’s example by investing in initiatives that will sustain UI’s leadership in education and research.

    President of the Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association World Wide (ICOMAA -WW), Emeritus Professor Samuel Omokhodion, said the Philip Ozuah hostel block at the cost of $ 1 million donors would house 168 students and stand as a testament to the shared vision and unwavering determination of the college alumni.

    He therefore, urged more donors to support the completion of the remaining blocks of hostel to accommodate over 500 occupants in response to the requirements set forth by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria to house all clinical students on the hospital premises.

  • Cleric seeks Oyebanji’s intervention on prolonged black out in Ekiti communities

    Cleric seeks Oyebanji’s intervention on prolonged black out in Ekiti communities

    A cleric, Prophet Adegboyega Ologbonyo, has requested urgent intervention of Ekiti Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji over eight-month blackout in Ise-Orun and Emure communities in Ekiti State.

    He lamented the communities have been plunged into agonising blackout for the past eight months.

    Speaking at the 16th anniversary of CAC Boanerges, Ologbonyo, who is the Zonal Superintendent, said the prolonged lack of electricity has not only jeopardised countless businesses in the communities, which has led to significant financial losses, but also thrust many families into unimaginable hardship, struggling to meet basic financial needs.

    He said: “As someone who has lived and served in these communities for more than 26 years, I bear witness to the persistent challenges that residents face daily. Throughout these decades, the absence of functioning pipe-borne water has been a constant struggle as I have not witnessed any that produces water for the people. 

    “Our people are forced to expend valuable time, energy, and resources in search of their own water sources, a basic necessity that should be readily available.”

    He said aside lack of electricity, the state of roads network in Ise-Orun and Emure Ekiti was also deplorable, which according to him is hindering economic activity and making daily commutes a burden. 

    He noted that majority of people in Ise-Orun, Emure communities are farming, adding that providing motorable roads that connect the farms to the cities would go a long way in boosting the economy.

    According to him: “The roads connecting Uso, Ijan and Agbado to Ise Ekiti, as well as Emure Ilé to Ọwọ are extremely important to the agricultural economy of the people. At present, the deplorable state of these roads has not only hindered the economic activities, but it has made the roads to become terrifying hide-outs for kidnappers, making the security situation to become increasingly alarming, and causing fear and uncertainty among the citizens. 

    “This situation would not encourage the attraction of investors into these communities, and may truncated the economic potentials of the communities. 

    “I know our Governor to be a good listener, a leader who truly has the welfare of his people at heart. It is this conviction that emboldens me to lay these pressing issues before you. I humbly implore you, Your Excellency, and all relevant stakeholders, to urgently address these critical concerns. 

    “Restoring electricity, providing access to clean pipe-borne water, improving our road infrastructure, and bolstering security are not just desires; they are fundamental rights that will significantly uplift the lives of our people. 

    “The government can consider embracing the use of modern technology like drones and other viable solutions that are being used in the Western world to enhance the government’s efforts in guaranteeing the security of its citizens. 

    “I pray the Lord continues to bless His Excellency and every other stakeholder involved in the governance of our state. Your efforts to improve the lives of Ekiti citizens are deeply valued.”

  • Cultism: Edo denies arm-twisting opposition leaders to join APC

    Cultism: Edo denies arm-twisting opposition leaders to join APC

    • PDP: Okpebholo has embarked on political witch-hunt

    Edo State government has denied allegations by leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that it is using the anti-cultism law to force them to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    It said it was impartial in enacting the law.

    Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Paul Ohonbamu, said  the APC does not need to force anybody to join the party.

    Ohonbamu said several buildings linked to kidnappers and cultism hde been demolished in line with the laws.

    The Iruekpen country home of a former Speaker of the House of Assembly, Marcus Onobun, was on Tuesday, marked for demolition because cultists reportedly grouped in the house after a clash between rival cult groups.

     Onobun, who represents Esan West/Esan Central/Igueben Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said the anti-cultism law targeted opposition leaders.

    Read Also: PDP, Edo govt bicker over good governance

    Onobun challenged the Edo government to persuade opposition leaders to support the party rather than marking their houses for demolition.

     “If there were cult activities they should be able to bring proof. Don’t target opposition leaders,” he said.

    The PDP condemned what it termed ‘perpetual resort to political harassment and witch-hunt in a desperate attempt to intimidate, silence, and cripple the opposition in Edo State’.

    It said the building of another PDP chieftain, Collins Aigbogun, was also marked for demolition.

    Caretaker Chairman of the Edo PDP, Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, said the Edo government’s move represented a disturbing abuse of power and a misuse of legislation to target political opponents.

    He said the anti-cultism law, as passed, stipulates that property could only be subject to forfeiture or demolition after a valid conviction by the court.

    PDP said in a statement: “This is not law enforcement; it is a political witch-hunt,’’ he added.

  • Sanwo-Olu inaugurates key projects in Ibeju-Lekki

    Sanwo-Olu inaugurates key projects in Ibeju-Lekki

    Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has performed the groundbreaking of a major housing project in Ibeju-Lekki, describing it as a milestone in the government’s commitment to grassroots development, urban regeneration, and inclusive governance.

    The ceremony for the Ibeju-Lekki Housing Scheme, a set of seven blocks comprising 63 family units, held alongside the inauguration of three projects, including a new administrative block for the local government, a legislative building, and a 400-metre paved road with dual-side drainage.

    At the event attended by key dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat; top cabinet members; traditional rulers; and political leaders, Sanwo-Olu hailed the efforts of the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Abdullahi Olowa.

    “This moment reflects the progressive strides we are making in Lagos and is a testament to the THEMES+ Agenda, our blueprint for development. That the chairman, in his first term, can deliver projects worthy of commissioning speaks volumes. He has done well, and I commend him,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He noted that the new administrative block, aptly named Asiwaju Building, pays tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s role in shaping modern Lagos.

    “This facility will significantly boost operational efficiency, providing a befitting working environment for staff and better service delivery to citizens,” he added.

    Read Also: Sanwo-Olu: parental values key to development

    He further said the legislative building demonstrates the administration’s respect for democratic institutions at the grassroots level.

    Sanwo-Olu also inspected and inaugurated a 400-metre paved road with proper drainage, aimed at improving access and increasing the socio-economic value of the area.

    A major highlight of the event was the groundbreaking for the Ibeju-Lekki Housing Scheme, dubbed Citrus Garden Estate, in the Eleko axis. Designed in partnership with Rizz Consulting, the estate will feature 63 family units, a facility building with a gym and event hall, outdoor playgrounds, solar energy, paved internal roads, 24/7 security, and other modern amenities.

  • Makinde, others mourn prominent Ibadan businessman Ajadi

    Makinde, others mourn prominent Ibadan businessman Ajadi

    Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, yesterday mourned the demise of prominent Ibadan businessman, Alhaji Lamidi Ajadi.

    The governor described Ajadi as a thoroughbred Ibadan man, who made immense contributions to the growth and development of Ibadan in particular and Oyo State in general.

    He condoled with the immediate family of Alhaji Ajadi, the Muslim community in Ibadanland and Oyo State, praying to God to forgive the sins of the deceased and grant him Aljanah Firdausi.

    The governor said: “I received with shock the news of the death of Alhaji Lamidi Ajadi, a prominent businessman and a great son of Ibadanland and Oyo State.

    “Pa Ajadi contributed his quota to the growth and development of Ibadanland in particular and Oyo State in general.

    Read Also: Makinde, Speaker mourn Adefope

    “While praying to God to grant his family the fortitude to bear this loss, I also pray that he will be granted Aljanah Firdausi.”

    Also, Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has described the late businessman and Islamic leader as an icon with a commitment to the development of Islam and humanity.

    Alli, in a condolence message by his media office in Ibadan yesterday, said Ajadi was also a man of deep faith and immense wisdom.

    The senator said Ajadi’s demise, especially as the Baba Adinni of Ibadanland, was a great loss to the Muslim Ummah in Ibadanland.

    Wife of former Oyo State Governor, Chief Florence Ajimobi, has described the late Ajadi as a man whose counsel was a beacon at times of uncertainty.

  • June 12: Judiciary urged to checkmate politicians

    June 12: Judiciary urged to checkmate politicians

    The Judiciary has been urged to live up to expectation checkmate the excesses of desperate politicians from truncating democracy.

    An elder statesman, Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, said this in a statement in Lagos yesterday, on the June 12 anniversary and 26 years of  unbroken democratic government.

    He said there was the need to strengthen the legislature, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), press and local governments to boost the dividends of democracy and good governance.

    He said the situation where the governments and politicians would continue to disobey court judgments, interpret them to suit their whims and caprice should not be tolerated.

    Read Also: June 12: Bode George urges Tinubu to reinstate Fubara

    As the last hope of the common man, the Judiciary must dispense to the admiration of parties in any dispute, Onitiri, a prominent Lagosian advised.

    Onitiri stressed the need for the national and states’ legislature to work in tandem with the Constitution by enacting laws and motions that would improve lives, as well as taking their oversight functions with seriousness.

    To bring government to the grassroots, the governors must allow the local governments to function fully and their monthly allocations go to them, the elder statesman emphasised.

    Onitiri called for a vibrant, fearless, impartial and incorruptible press that would mirror the society, hold governments and politicians accountable.

  • Democracy Day: ‘Tinubu’s reforms having positive impact’

    Democracy Day: ‘Tinubu’s reforms having positive impact’

    A stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Mr. Olusola Agbi, has expressed optimism about the gradual positive impact of President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms on the people.

    According to Agbi, these reforms are beginning to yield benefits for the people.

    The Akure-born politician and a contender for the House of Representatives underscored notable improvements in economic stability and infrastructure development, attributing these gains to the administration’s commitment to meaningful change.

    “The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, but the gradual effects of these reforms are a testament to the administration’s resolve,” he stated.

    Read Also: Tinubu woos Wike, says APC will welcome ex-Rivers governor

    He added that the country is on a path of sustainable growth and development, with increased foreign investment, improved security, and enhanced business-friendly policies.

    Agbi, an infrastructure project consultant, also noted significant strides in agriculture, education, and healthcare, which are crucial sectors for Nigeria’s long-term prosperity.

    “These reforms are a step in the right direction. With sustained efforts, I’m hopeful we’ll see even more positive outcomes in the months ahead, including increased economic diversification, job creation, and improved standard of living for Nigerians.”

    He urged Nigerians to keep an abiding faith in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and to support its efforts in building a stronger, more prosperous nation.

  • Industrialist appointed Yeye Owa of Ijesaland

    Industrialist appointed Yeye Owa of Ijesaland

    The Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, has conferred the chieftaincy title of Yeye Owa of Ijesaland on renowned industrialist, Dame Eunice Olayinka Obaleye, owner of Yinka Oba Foam Nigeria Limited, Ilesa, Osun State. In a statement, Owa Haastrup said he conferred the title on the octogenarian industrialist in “recognition of her profound knowledge, experience, and discernment; and deep appreciation of her unquestionable interest in the unity, peace and progress of Ijesaland”.

    “Mama’s dedication and contributions to the development of Ijesaland are unparalleled.

    Read Also: We would resist invaders from our gold-rich areas, says Owa Obokun of Ijesaland

    Owa Haastrup continued: “For decades, she has worked assiduously not only to make her company, Yinka Oba FoamNigeria Limited, a leader in their area of business with their high quality products, she has also been providing employment and great opportunities for countless Ijesa sons and daughters, thereby helping to build a strong economy, locally and nationally.

    “Mama’s significant contributions and impact are not lost on the Federal Government of Nigeria which, under President Goodluck Jonathan, conferred on her the national honour of the Member of the Order of Niger (MON). The Methodist Church also honoured her with its highest award-Knight of John Wesley. It is for her undiluted dedication to Ijesaland, resilience and reliability, and selfless service to humanity, that I confer on Mama the title of Yeye Owa of Ijesaland. Congratulations.”

    In her acceptance letter, Dame Obaleye thanked Owa Haastrup  for the honour done to her.

  • ‘Lagos confronting housing challenges with innovative solutions’

    ‘Lagos confronting housing challenges with innovative solutions’

    Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to addressing major challenges confronting the real estate sector with innovative solutions.

    The governor stated this during the 75th World Congress of the International Real Estate Federation in Victoria Island, Lagos, with the theme: “Global Real Estate Renaissance”.

    Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, said the theme of the event speaks to the transformation that the real estate sector is undergoing worldwide, which is being driven by innovation, sustainability, and inclusive urban development.

    He said his administration recognises housing as a pillar of growth, and is addressing the multifaceted impact of housing on livelihoods, job creation, and social stability.

    The governor emphasised that in the past years, the state government has implemented impactful initiatives to scale up affordable housing deliveries, with varieties of approaches.

    Read Also: Lagos commits to global best practice in public procurement

    He said: “Our multi-pronged approach includes dedicated budgetary allocations targeting low- and middle-income earners, alongside fostering a business environment that encourages private sector participation through Public-Private Partnerships. These efforts have delivered nearly 10,000 housing units over six years, with plans to complete over 14,000 more by 2026.”

    These initiatives, according to him, not only improve affordability but also enhance quality of life, generate employment, and stimulate the broader economy.

    He assured the participants that Lagos offers immense investment opportunities and is committed to adopting global best practices and sustainable development models that will attract more global partnerships towards achieving the housing and urban development goals.

    President Bola Tinubu was represented by the Minister for Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, while Prof. Yemi Osinbajo was the keynote speaker at the congress, in Lagos, for the first time in Africa.

  • NIHOTOUR commences compliance exercise in Lagos

    NIHOTOUR commences compliance exercise in Lagos

    The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) has officially commenced a rigorous compliance exercise across Lagos State, focusing on hotels, restaurants, and other establishments within the hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors.

    This initiative is in furtherance of NIHOTOUR’s statutory mandate to standardise and regulate professional practices within the industry nationwide.

    The compliance drive seeks to ensure that all personnel, practitioners, and operators within the sector are duly certified and registered with NIHOTOUR, by the NIHOTOUR Establishment Act 2022.

    This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Management of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR).

    Speaking on the development, the Director of Legal Services at NIHOTOUR, Mrs. Mariam Inuwa, Esq, highlighted the Institute’s legal responsibilities as captured in Section 5(1)(h) of the Act, which authorises NIHOTOUR to regulate the activities of hospitality, travel, and tourism professionals in Nigeria. She further referenced Section 4(o) of the Act, which mandates the certification of all practitioners to promote uniform standards, professionalism, and quality service delivery within the industry.

    As part of the exercise, several leading establishments were visited, including Marriott Hotel Ikeja GRA, The Sojourner, Sheraton Lagos, Radisson Blu Victoria Island, Black Diamond Hotel, and Four Points by Sheraton.

    These visits followed the issuance of multiple letters of demand and contravention notices to the affected organisations.

    Read Also: NIHOTOUR, Immigration partner on hospitality certification

    NIHOTOUR is pleased to announce that Marriott Hotel, The Sojourner, Radisson Blu, Black Diamond, and FourPoints by Sheraton have all commenced the process of registration and certification, in line with regulatory expectations.

    This compliance drive reinforces NIHOTOUR’s unwavering commitment to repositioning the Nigerian hospitality, travel, and tourism sectors as key pillars of national development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The Institute will continue to engage stakeholders constructively while ensuring strict adherence to the laws governing the sector.