The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Nwachukwu, others eulogise First Lady’s RHI

    Sanwo-Olu’s wife, Nwachukwu, others eulogise First Lady’s RHI

    The wife of Lagos Governor, Dr (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has presented some professional kits, comprising scrubs and crocs to nurses and midwives in Lagos State under the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) of First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

    The presentation ceremony made on behalf of the First Lady by Mrs Sanwo-Olu, who is the Lagos State Coordinator of RHI, was held at the Banquet Hall of the Office of the First Lady, Alausa, Ikeja on Monday. The event was attended by the wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, as well as top government officials.

    Sanwo-Olu praised Senator Tinubu’s visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to improving maternal and child health results nationwide.

    She said: “This presentation is more than a distribution of kits; it is a message that we acknowledge your dedication, celebrate your service and stand with you in delivering quality healthcare.”

    She recalled that the RHI has already been launched in all the geopolitical zones of the country, with Lagos State’s presentation following the recent Southwest regional rollout in Akure, Ondo State, where 10,000 sets of scrubs and Crocs were distributed.

    The 10,000 kits were officially handed over to the beneficiaries through the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, as Dr. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and supporting frontline health workers.

    She commended the resilience and compassion of nurses and midwives, describing them as “pillars of strength” in the healthcare system.

    “Your service goes beyond duty, it is a calling,” she said, while assuring them of continued recognition and the government’s support.

    The wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, praised the Renewed Hope Initiative for its transformative impact, underscoring the significance of equipping healthcare workers with essential tools to enhance maternal and child health.

    Read Also: FG sues Senator Natasha over alleged defamation

    She commended Senator Tinubu for her compassionate leadership and called for a renewed commitment to service excellence, community engagement and accountability in the healthcare sector.

    “Quality healthcare must be a right for all, not a privilege,” she stated.

    The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, expressed gratitude to the Senator for her tireless efforts in uplifting women, children and vulnerable populations through the RHI.

    He described nurses and midwives as the “heartbeat of our healthcare system,” even as he noted that presenting these kits was both a symbolic and practical gesture to support and empower them.

    In his speech at the event, the Eze Ndigbo of Lagos State, Christian Nwachukwu (JP) described the First Lady as a true mother who has the interest of Nigerians at heart and who loves to help people to improve their lives.

    He added that “Senator Tinubu has launched several empowerment programmes aimed at supporting women and youth in various sectors, including agriculture, business and education. These programmes focus on providing resources, training and mentorship to help women and young people achieve economic independence and contribute to national development.”

    Eze Nwachukwu noted that the presentation of the kits to health personnel in Lagos State indicates how committed Senator Tinubu has been in providing quality healthcare for Nigerians, especially women and children.

    Eze Nwachukwu further stated that Mrs Tinubu’s initiatives are complementary to President Tinubu’s efforts toward ensuring that better days are here again.

  • Ibadan indigenes back rotational governorship, emphasise competence over origin

    Ibadan indigenes back rotational governorship, emphasise competence over origin

    The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), the apex socio-cultural body representing all Ibadan groups, has declared its support for the growing calls for rotational governorship in Oyo State, stressing that competence and effective governance remain its top priorities.

    Speaking during a courtesy visit by members of ‘Ègbé Àjosepò Fún Ìtésíwájú Gbogbo Wa’ at the CCII Secretariat in Ibadan, the President-General of the Council, Chief Sulaimon Ajewole, said neither the CCII nor the people of Ibadan oppose the principle of power rotation.

    Ajewole noted that the call for rotational governorship is rooted in the pursuit of equity and fairness across all zones in the state.

    “Ibadan is not selfish to work against the feasibility of rotational governorship. Our major concern is the delivery and effectiveness of anyone who becomes governor,” he said.

    He highlighted Ibadanland’s history of inclusivity, citing its support for past governors from outside the city, including the late former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala.

    He added that Ibadan has always embraced non-indigenes, even honouring several with awards such as “Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland.”

    The CCII reiterated that while fairness in political representation is important, the ability to govern effectively and provide leadership remains the foremost criterion for the people of Ibadan.

    Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of Ègbé Àjosepò Fún Ìtésíwájú Gbogbo Wa, Mr. Dauda Olaifa, said the group is a socio-cultural and political advocacy group dedicated to the vision of power rotation within Oyo State, specifically advocating for the process to commence from the Oke-Ogun region.

    He emphasised the group’s non-political, non-religious, and non-town-based ethos, representing the collective interest in equity, development, and unity.

    He acknowledged Ibadan’s cosmopolitan identity, acknowledging it as Africa’s largest city and a testament to its inclusive spirit. He also stressed Oke-Ogun’s significant contributions to the growth, describing the region as the food basket of Oyo State, crucial for the state’s sustenance and economic prosperity, including Ibadan’s development.

    The Chairman appealed for the CCII’s support in advocating for the rotation of the governorship to Oke-Ogun, believing it would foster equity and unlock the region’s untapped economic and developmental potential.

    He recognised that although the CCII PG might not possess direct executive power but his influence, voice and moral authority within the state are powerful tools that can help champion the cause of agitation for rotational governorship.

    Also speaking, Professor Jacob Babayemi, Spokesperson for the group stressed the benefits of an Oke-Ogun governorship, noting that if Oke-Ogun were to lead the state, its “50 percent landmass, seven international borders, and untapped natural resources” would alleviate the developmental pressure currently concentrated on Ibadan, which presently contributes the highest percentage of the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

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    Also speaking, another prominent voice within the group, Dr. Adenike Adejumo, appealed for the consideration of rotational governorship, advocating for its initiation from the Oke-Ogun zone.

    Rounding off the meeting, Mr. Ajuwon Oladejo extended gratitude to the CCII leadership for the opportunity to present their case for rotational governorship, expressing hope for Ibadanland’s continued prosperity.

    The meeting had in attendance the CCII Secretary, CCII Social Director, and members of Ègbé Àjosepò Fún Ìtésíwájú Gbogbo Wa, including Engr. Dauda Olaifa (Chairman), Pastor Favour Adewoyin (Secretary), Engr. Moses Olusola Babarinde (Financial Secretary), Professor Jacob Olaniyi Babayemi (Spokesperson), Dr. Adenike Adejumo, Professor Kolawole Adekunle and Mr. Oladejo Ajuwon.

    Others are: Mr Sunday S.O., Mr Ogungbenjo T. John, Mr Ogungbenro Kunle, Madam Suliat Ogungbenro, Mr Layo Kehinde, Comrade Khalid Imran and Comrade Adebowale Okelola, among others.

  • Rotary kicks off district conference in Ogun

    Rotary kicks off district conference in Ogun

    Rotary International District 9112 has commenced its annual district conference at Presidential Boulevard in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    The four-day event, which began this week, will conclude on Saturday.

    District Governor (DG) Femi Adenekan announced this during a press briefing held in Ikeja GRA, Lagos, on Tuesday. He described the gathering as a historic moment to highlight Rotary’s collective impact in communities.

    Themed “Increasing the Impact of Rotary through a New World of Service,” the conference is expected to host several dignitaries, including Alberto Cecchini from Italy, who is representing the Rotary International President.

    Highlights of the event include an inspection of a prostate cancer project in Sagamu, a vocational centre tour, a gala night, keynote speeches, a parade, a polio awareness walk, and the DG’s valedictory address.

    The conference will also begin with courtesy visits to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo III, and the Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso (Karunwi III).

    Read Also: Rotary gifts N13.5m scholarships to 22 undergraduates

    Prominent speakers at the event include former Lagos State Commissioner Dr. Michael Olawale-Cole, Arise TV media executive Dr. Reuben Abati, and agric-tech expert Samson Ogbole.

    Adenekan, whose tenure ends on June 10, used the opportunity offered by the press conference to showcase his achievements: planting of 2,000 coconut trees, increased drive, returning of 500 out-of-school pupils to schools in Mushin and Ajegunle, distribution of lab consumables to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), fundraiser for Rotary Foundation, among others.

    Adenekan, however, decried the devaluation of the naira, saying it affected their membership drive and donations target of over $1million as he could not raise half of the amount.

    He thanked Rotarians for their support and urged them to extend the same to his successor, Lanre Adedoyin, a lawyer. He said he would be ready to assist the district in any area his services would be needed.

    Also at the press conference were Conference Planning Committee Chair, Tony Eigbokhan, an architect; Public Image chair, Ehi Braimah, and other senior members of the district.

  • Presidential panel applauds progress as Funmi Olotu presents NASSCO’s social protection milestones

    Presidential panel applauds progress as Funmi Olotu presents NASSCO’s social protection milestones

    The National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO), under the leadership of its National Coordinator, Funmi Olotu, has played a pivotal role at the Presidential Panel on strengthening Nigeria’s social protection systems.

    The Presidential Panel on Social Investment Programmes, led by its Chairman and Honourable Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, convened to review recent updates and progress in the social investment space, with a focus on enhancing the impact of these programmes and exploring strategies to deliver even greater benefits to Nigerians.

    The session brought together key government leaders and partners, including the World Bank, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, as well as representatives from the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), National Social Safety-Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO), and the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO).

    The World Bank team presented key findings and recommendations from its latest assessment of Nigeria’s social protection and benefit transfer programmes.

    Their report provided insight into what’s working, what needs strengthening, and where the opportunities lie.

    In his remarks, the Chairman of the Panel and Honourable Minister of Finance & Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, emphasized the value of data and clear communication in demonstrating results, stressing that a firm grasp of the figures is essential to understanding impact in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In one of the session’s highlights, Olotu presented the significant progress made on NASSCO’s ongoing NIN (National Identification Number) integration and update of the National Social Register.

    Read Also: Funmi Olotu leads transformative workplace culture training

    Nearly four million households across 766 Local Government Areas have now been successfully updated, demonstrating NASSCO’s leadership in delivering more transparent, accountable, and effective targeting of the poor and vulnerable.

    Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, underscored the importance of relatable storytelling, encouraging the use of testimonials from beneficiaries to showcase real-world impact.

    The Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, addressed the need for a more structured and forward-looking approach to programme design.

    He noted that identifying early signs of gaps and acting on them decisively will be a game changer for the social protection space.

    The session reinforced NASSCO’s reputation as a coordinating organization that not only delivers results but also drives innovation in social protection.

  • Stakeholders decry delay in constituting social work regulatory council

    Stakeholders decry delay in constituting social work regulatory council

    Stakeholders in Nigeria’s social work profession have raised alarm over the continued absence of a regulatory council, warning that it is hindering the development and proper coordination of the profession nationwide.

    This concern was contained in a communique issued at the end of a strategic meeting convened in Abuja by the Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASoW) in collaboration with affiliated bodies such as the Association of Social Work Educators in Nigeria (ASWEN), the Association of Medical Social Workers of Nigeria (AMSWON), and the Institute of Social Work in Nigeria (ISOWN).

    The meeting focused on key challenges confronting social work practice in the country, particularly the need to operationalize the Nigerian Council for Social Work as provided in the Nigerian Council for Social Work (Establishment) Act, 2022.

    Among those in attendance were Alhaji Mashood Mustapha, President of NASoW; Mrs. Esther Nasara, General Secretary of NASoW; Professor Alamveabee Idyorough, President of ASWEN; Professor James Ayangunna, National Secretary of ASWEN; Mr. Kayode Ogedengbe, National President of AMSWON; and Mr. Daniel Ellu, National General Secretary of AMSWON.

    Although the Act establishing the council was signed into law in 2022 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, stakeholders lamented that the body is yet to be constituted or inaugurated, leaving a critical regulatory gap in the profession.

    In the communique made available to journalists on Wednesday, the stakeholders commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s welfare initiatives aimed at supporting Nigeria’s vulnerable populations.

    However, they expressed deep concern that the delay in implementing the Act has stalled the regulation, standardization, and growth of the social work profession in the country.

    “After extensive deliberations and professional engagement, the following resolutions were reached and unanimously adopted:

    “Urgent Need for Council regularization. The meeting expressed deep concern over the non-regularization of the Nigerian Council for Social Work, since being ascented to, the Social Work (Establishment) Act in 2022. This delay has created a vacuum in the regulation and coordination of professional social work practice across the country.

    “Collective Appeal to the Federal Government. The leadership of NASoW, ASWEN, and AMSWON, called on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to urgently make operational, the Council in accordance with the provisions of the Act, to ensure that the regulatory framework envisioned by the law is operationalized.

    Read Also: Akpabio, stakeholders urge Africa to end raw material export dependency

    “Impact of Non-operation. The absence of the Council undermines the growth, recognition, and regulation of social work practice in Nigeria. It is affecting the standardization of education as well as training, licensing of practitioners, and monitoring of ethical practices across various sectors including health, education, justice, and humanitarian services.

    “Commitment to Collaboration and Advocacy. The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the professional bodies to working collaboratively in promoting the social work profession in Nigeria. It resolved to intensify advocacy and constructive engagement with relevant government authorities until the Council is formally operational.

    “Call to Action. All stakeholders including policy makers, the media, and the general public are called upon to support this cause which seeks to enhance the delivery of essential social services, protect the vulnerable, and promote national development through professional social work practice. 

    “This communique is issued in the spirit of unity, professionalism, and commitment to national service by the leadership of the undersigned bodies”. 

  • Media attacks on Seyi Tinubu affront on youths, less privileged – Balami

    Media attacks on Seyi Tinubu affront on youths, less privileged – Balami

    An All Progressives Congress(APC) chieftain and youth advocate, Comrade Isaac Balami has condemned the constant attacks on Seyi Tinubu, son of the President.

    He stated that an attack on him should be seen as an attack on youths and the less privileged who he said Tinubu has dedicated his time to the protection of their rights and privileges.

    Balami, who referenced the recent video of Seyi Tinubu when he accompanied President Bola Tinubu to Rome for the inauguration of the Pope said most of such narratives were aimed at debasing Seyi. 

    He  urged youths to rise against individuals who have been contracted to construct narratives meant to continuously disparage Seyi Tinubu despite his good intentions.

    Faulting the nature of politics which aims to target individuals considered to be gaining popularity in the political space, Balami said: “Such is clear politics of bitterness aimed to pull individuals down for the interests they tend to protect. I don’t know why some people are only interested in pulling someone down so as to gain relevance. One doesn’t need to disparage someone or manipulate narratives to succeed. I advise those with the “Pull Him Down” syndrome to know that they can still succeed without necessarily trying to pull others down.”

    He recalled how in one month, Seyi Tinubu was the target of different online bullies, referencing the incident of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, factional President who later apologized to him. 

    The former spokesman for the Trade Union Congress (TUC) further said no month will pass without traducers dragging him on social media.  

    Dismissing the video that Seyi Tinubu was stopped from having a handshake with the Pope, Balami said from his observation,  the young man was never going to have any handshake in the first place.

    “From the video, it is clear that Seyi Tinubu was only going to join his dad after the handshake and was simply directed to meet him on the other exit as they were about to exit the place. How someone will just sit down to initiate this narrative is beyond me. 

    “How do you conclude on what you have no empirical evidence to prove? How does mere protocol define someone’s intention? Those peddling this must stop now.”

    “I believe the growing popularity of Mr. Tinubu whom it has been suggested is eyeing the governorship seat in Lagos in the next election has been giving some people sleepless nights. Such individuals would do anything to demarket him. But then, it is too late. Already, Mr. Tinubu is loved by young people. The level of investment on Nigerian youths remains unprecedented and Nigerian youths won’t abandon him when he needs them.”

    Balami said Seyi Tinubu is a role model to many young people based on his responsible lifestyle. 

    According to him:” We have seen cases when a president’s son and other dignitaries who escorted past presidents to such an event were engrossed in frivolity as against participating in what actually took them there.” 

    Read Also: NANS urges Seyi Tinubu to remain focused, ignore critics

    “Some will go to nightclubs, drink and party away. But we all saw how Seyi, not minding anything travelled with his father and stayed glued till the end. Many young people won’t have the time for this and would deliberately avoid the trip because it is not about partying and others. I believe Seyi Tinubu is a unifier and has the capacity to unite young Nigerians.

    “What should bother young Nigerians is the level of support from Seyi Tinubu and his foundation,

    “I believe the record is there for everyone to see. Seyi Tinubu’s support for young people knows no bounds.”

    While cautioning young people against  social media bullying, the APC chieftain wondered if the privileged Seyi Tinubu can go through this type of online bullying, then what becomes of the ordinary youth who aspires for bigger and better offices in future. 

    He called on Nigerian youths to form a formidable force against those waiting to see the downfall of Seyi Tinubu.

    “If at this time that the world is moving at such a speedy pace we are still talking about a handshake, then we have a long way to go.

    “While seyi is investing in the Nigerian youths through his numerous positive engagements, michieve makers are rather investing on media propaganda to discourage the good young man,” Balami said.

  • Funmi Olotu leads transformative workplace culture training

    Funmi Olotu leads transformative workplace culture training

    The National Coordinator, National Social Safety Nets Coordinating Office (NASSCO), Funmi Olotu, has led staff through a transformative two-day training aimed at reshaping workplace culture, improving communication, and strengthening adherence to labour management procedures. 

    Held at Zuma Rock Resort on May 11 and 12, 2025, the training brought together staff of NASSCO and the National Cash Transfer Office (NCTO) for hands-on sessions on respectful workplace behaviour, ethical conduct, and emotional intelligence. 

    Supported by the World Bank, the initiative was designed to help teams work better, lead better, and deliver better. 

    “This session offers us an opportunity to have honest conversations, to learn, unlearn, and build a workplace culture that is safe, inclusive, and enabling for everyone,” Olotu said in her opening remarks. 

    The experience blended practical learning with human connection. 

    Participants engaged in sessions on emotional intelligence, workplace ethics, communication, and conflict resolution, facilitated by World Bank consultant Olumuyiwa Atitebi, whose relatable style sparked reflection and active participation. 

    What stood out most was the energy in the room. Ubah Thomas Ubah, Task Team Leader for NASSP-SU, encouraged staff to move beyond silos, connect genuinely, and use the time to strengthen cross-team relationships, emphasizing that collaboration is key to impact. 

    Team-building activities like Bingo, the Bolognaise Tower, and a Mock Election added fun and purpose, reinforcing lessons in trust, inclusion, and shared leadership. 

    The training wrapped up with a group survey, action planning, and outdoor exercises that brought everything full circle. This wasn’t just about policies or training. It was about people. 

    Under Olotu’s direction, it served as a clear reminder that workplace culture doesn’t build itself. It is shaped intentionally, together, and from the top.

  • RETRACTION

    RETRACTION

    In the January 12, 2025, edition of The Nation, we published an interview with former Imo State Governor, Ikedi Ohakim, titled ‘My problem with Chris Anyanwu’s book.’

    In the said interview, Ohakim made comments and claims touching on Senator Anyanwu’s family, political and professional accomplish- ments as well as her ties with past military regimes.

    The comments and claims made in the interview are entirely those of the former Imo governor. However, they were published without confirming their veracity.

    We hereby retract them.

    We apologise for any inconveniences and embarrassment the publication may have caused Senator Anyanwu.

    – Editor

  • Beere: Saki’s festival of pomp, culture, ceremony

    Beere: Saki’s festival of pomp, culture, ceremony

    Saki, an historic community in Oyo State, will throw its doors open to the world today as the nine-day yearly Beere Festival begins.

    Beere  Festival (Odun Oko) is more than just a cultural celebration. It is a living heritage, a tourism piece, a commercial showcase, and a symbol of unity and discipline that dates back to centuries.

     The festival is the living history of Saki’s cultural identity. It is named after the traditional thatching grass called Beere, a symbolic ritual rooted in the ancient architecture and governance system of Saki.

    The festival originated from the pragmatic leadership of past monarchs who, in a bid to protect the environment and preserve resources, placed rules on bush burning during the dry season. It is only after the lifting of the embargo by the Okere of Saki that the community is allowed to harvest Beere.

    The heart of the festival lies in its communal re-roofing of the palace, during which residents bring thatching grass to the Okere’s court, symbolising loyalty, service and unity. Once the palace is re-roofed, families can return home to do the same.

    Read Also: I stay hungry to remain on top– IK Osakioduwa

    As usual, the festival will span nine days of vibrant events. These include:

    Opening Ceremony with 21-gun salute to mark the official commencement.

    Oath-taking ceremony by traditional chiefs to reaffirm loyalty to the Okere.

    Royal processions and homage-paying by baales, high chiefs and traditional groups.

    Traditional dances, music and drumming showcasing Yoruba folklore.

    Queen’s Day Celebration, recognising the role of royal women in cultural continuity.

    Feasting and distribution of communal meals.

    Presentation of Beere by Chief Mayeloye as the community’s symbolic gift.

    Youth performances and cultural competitions.

  • ‘Don’t blame Tinubu for defections’

    ‘Don’t blame Tinubu for defections’

    A former lawmaker in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has warned Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other opposition parties not to blame President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the defection of their members to the ruling party.

    Oyintiloye, who represented Obokun State Constituency on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC), in a statement yesterday said rather than blame the President, members of the opposition parties should look inward and embrace internal democracy.

    He said the recent gales of defections were due to ideological persuasion and not any form of coercion as being speculated in some quarters.

    Oyintiloye said opposition parties were losing members because of long existing internal wrangling unattended to over the years in their fold.

    “Many defectors claimed they were sidelined, undermined, unfairly treated by their former parties, leaving them with no option but to switch to a party with sustainable transformation agenda.

    Read Also: Tinubu reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to interfaith dialogue in Vatican meeting

    “This season of political recalibration that is leading to growing number of politicians defecting en masse to the ruling APC is an indication that the party has shown courage of being capable to transform the country through the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the President.

    “President has shown commitment to prioritise national development and create a more viable platform. This is winning members into the APC fold,” he said.

    Oyintiloye predicted more defections from the opposition parties, especially PDP, warning that “PDP should not blame the President or APC for its lack of cohesion.”

    He dismissed insinuations in some quarters that the wave of defections of members of the opposition parties to APC could lead to one party system.