The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Ondo okays new Tax Law

    Ondo okays new Tax Law

    Ahead of January 1, 2026 implementation of the new Tax Law,  Ondo State Government has approved a new Tax Bill for transmission to the House of Assembly for consideration and passage into law.

    The approval was granted at the State Executive Council (SEC) meeting held on Tuesday and presided over by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    Briefing reporters after the meeting, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, said the proposed tax law aligned with the state’s commitment to harmonising its fiscal policies with the federal tax reforms scheduled to take effect from today.

    He said the bill was designed to ensure Ondo State’s tax framework operated in line with national standard under the Nigeria Tax Act 2025 and related reforms.

    He said the legislation would promote efficiency, transparency and sustainable revenue generation, while providing relief for low-income earners and small businesses.

    Read Also: Tinubu: New Tax Laws will bring prosperity

    “By adopting these measures, the state aims to foster economic growth, improve public services and create a more equitable tax environment that supports businesses and individuals alike,” Ajulo said.

    He added that the approval marked a proactive step towards integrating Ondo State into Nigeria’s evolving national tax landscape. “The bill will now proceed to the House of Assembly for legislative review and debate. The government encourages public participation and remains open to constructive feedback from stakeholders,” he said.

    The state government has appointed Owei Kekemeke as the pioneer Amananawei of Agadagda-Obon in Ese Odo Local Government.

    Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, who also spoke after the SEC meeting, said the government was ready to fill vacant traditional stools once affected communities began the selection process.

    He confirmed that warrant chiefs had been approved for the appointment of Alade Okun of Alade in Idanre Local Government, clearing the way for the installation of a new monarch.

    On infrastructure development, Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Abiola Olawoye, hailed Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to advancing key projects across the state.

  • I didn’t authorise manhandling of Obaseki, says Oba of Benin

    I didn’t authorise manhandling of Obaseki, says Oba of Benin

    The Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II, has said he never authorised the manhandling of a former Managing Director of Daar Communication, Dr. Pedro Obaseki.

    He said he remained a father of all.

    The former Daar Communication boss was, on Sunday, abducted where he was playing football by suspected thugs.

    He was beaten up, stripped naked and paraded through the streets of Benin City on allegation of being an ‘Oghionba’ (enemy of the Oba).

    Obaseki was taken to the Oba’s Palace from where he was taken to the police station.

    Read Also: Ex-Daar Communication boss Obaseki vows to pursue justice

    The Benin Monarch, in a statement signed by Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council, Frank Irabor, advised youths not to take the law into their hands on any issue, no matter the degree of provocation. 

    The statement said: “The Benin Traditional Council uses this medium to inform the public that the unfortunate incident in which Pedro Obaseki was manhandled was not authorised by the Oba of Benin.

    And it cannot be authorised because it is not in the character of our revered monarch to do so. The Oba of Benin is a peace-loving father to all.

    “The Benin Traditional Council also wishes to advise our youths not to take the law into their hands on any issue, no matter the degree of provocation. They should always respect the laws of the land in all actions and utterances and allow appropriate security agencies handle all matters.

    “Social media users should equally endeavour to cross-check information appropriately before posting.”

  • 2026: Oyebamiji’s posters, billboards flood Osun major towns

    2026: Oyebamiji’s posters, billboards flood Osun major towns

    • …as APC candidate urges residents to await progressive govt

    Posters and billboards of All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), have appeared across strategic locations statewide, signaling his growing visibility ahead of the August 8, 2026 election.

    Speaking with newsmen on Thursday, Oyebamiji, whose campaign materials have prominently covered Osogbo, Ikire, Ede, Gbongan, Iragbiji, Ikirun, and other towns, congratulated the people on the New Year celebrations.

    He praised the resilience and patriotism consistently demonstrated by Osun residents since the state’s creation, assuring them of a people-focused, progressive government to be ushered in 2026.

    Read Also: Osun 2026: My victory is divinely guaranteed – Oyebamiji

    “As we all walk into the year of manifestation, let’s continue to champion the virtues of love, unity, sacrifice, resilience and peaceful coexistence that define us as a people and as a state. Let’s demonstrate high sense of Omoluabi as we approach election period. Let’s scale up our support for the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he continues to stimulate our economy and build a virile nation where everyone triumphs.

    “As the candidate of the Nigeria’s ruling party – the All Progressives Congress, APC, I am ever ready to lead our party and our people to victory come August 8th, 2026. My pact is to build a state, when elected governor, where every sector works for the benefit of all, regardless of our political, cultural and religious affiliations. Let’s rekindle our hope and set our state to the paths of sustainable growth and development.

    Also, Executive Director of Project Implementation at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Remi Omowaiye, disclosed that, “AMBO’s posters and billboards are across the state and I am using the opportunity to urge the ruling party to caution their errand boys who may want to damage them.”

  • Oloworo of Oworoshoki felicitates residents, prays for Renewed Hope in 2026

    Oloworo of Oworoshoki felicitates residents, prays for Renewed Hope in 2026

    The Oloworo of Oworoshoki, His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Saliu, Elebo II, has extended warm New Year felicitations to the people of Oworoshoki community and Lagos State at large as they step into the year 2026.

    In his New Year message, the revered monarch expressed gratitude to God for the gift of life and preservation through the outgoing year, noting that the grace of God has remained sufficient for the people despite the economic and social challenges experienced in recent times.

    Oba Saliu prayed that 2026 will usher in a season of divine grace, peace, good health, prosperity and uncommon breakthroughs for residents of Oworoshoki, Lagos State, and Nigeria as a whole. 

    He called on God to bless families, strengthen businesses, protect the youths, and grant elders long life and sound mind.

    The traditional ruler urged residents to remain hopeful, law-abiding and united, stressing that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and cooperation. 

    He encouraged the people to continue to support government policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.

    The Oloworo specifically called on residents to believe in the Lagos State Government and the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms and infrastructural development would yield positive results for the state and the nation in the new year.

    According to the monarch, “With patience, prayers and collective support for constituted authorities, Nigeria will witness greater progress and stability. The future is bright, and together we shall overcome our challenges.”

    Oba Babatunde Saliu, Elebo II, further prayed for continued peace in Oworoshoki land, wisdom for leaders at all levels, and God’s protection over Lagos State and Nigeria throughout the year 2026 and beyond.

  • New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    New year: Make good resolutions, Ladoja urges Ibadan residents, indigenes

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja has urged both the indigenes and residents of Ibadan to make New Year resolutions that will promote peaceful co-existence, unity, socio economic rejuvenation, security of life and property, cultural values and monumental developments in all ramifications of life in Ibadanland 

    The New Year celebration message was sent to all indigenes and residents by the monarch while congratulating the people on seeing the end of year 2025 and happily entering year 2026 hale and hearty 

    In the New Year message as contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, the paramount ruler said, “I urge you all to be resolute on the progress and unity of Ibadanland so as to jointly realize the modern Ibadanland of our dream.

    “As for me, I have resolved to use the rest of my life to serve God and humanity as a good example for others to follow.”

    Oba Ladoja used the occasion to enjoin all Ibadan traditional title holders to key into his vision of moving Ibadan forward for the benefit of all especially in the areas of security, urban renewal, putting an end to land grabbing, resuscitation of moribund companies and preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage.

    He commended the security operatives in Ibadanland as well as Oyo State for their improved efforts in securing the life and property of the people before and during the celebration, urging them not to rest on their oars. 

  • 2026: Abiru urges Nigerians to consolidate reforms, back Tinubu for economic recovery

    2026: Abiru urges Nigerians to consolidate reforms, back Tinubu for economic recovery

    Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial district, Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has called on Nigerians to consolidate the gains of ongoing reforms and sustain support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as the country moves into 2026.

    In his New Year message to constituents and Nigerians at large, Abiru described 2026 as a year of “reflection, renewal and collective resolve,” urging citizens to deepen grassroots empowerment and expand opportunities for youths across the country.

    The lawmaker said the new year offers a fresh chance to build on progress already recorded, particularly in youth development and inclusive growth. 

    He reaffirmed his commitment to championing policies that promote economic stability and ensure development reaches “every ward, every community and every household” in Lagos East.

    “At the national level, encouraging signs of economic recovery are beginning to emerge,” Abiru said, attributing the trend to far-reaching reforms designed to stabilise the economy and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.

    He urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Tinubu as his administration implements critical policies aimed at strengthening the economy, improving infrastructure and expanding opportunities for citizens.

    Abiru also stressed the importance of unity, dialogue and tolerance in navigating national challenges, noting that Nigeria’s diversity remains a strength rather than a weakness.

    “Our diversity, when harnessed through cooperation, enables us to overcome challenges and build a more inclusive, just and forward-looking nation,” he said.

    The senator wished Nigerians peace, good health and renewed hope in 2026, expressing optimism that the new year would usher in greater progress and prosperity for the country.

  • Tribunal set to deliver judgment on Ibadan North Bye-election

    Tribunal set to deliver judgment on Ibadan North Bye-election

    The election petition Tribunal sitting in Ibadan has adjourned to deliver judgment in the petition with suit number: EPT/OY/HR/01/2025 filed by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) against the victory of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Hon. Fola oyekunle in the August 16, 2025 bye election in Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

    This followed the closure of parties case and subsequent adoption of their respective written addresses.

    SDP posited that the election and return of Hon. Folajimi as member representing Ibadan North federal constituency is vitiated by non-compliance with the Electoral Act 2022. 

    SDP further prayed the tribunal to cancel the bye election and conduct fresh or supplementary election in the affected polling units of the federal constituency.

    Counsel to PDP, Tunji Ogunrinde, (SAN), in his reply to the petition, also filed a notice of preliminary objection challenging the competence of the petition for petitioner’s failure to comply with extant position of the Electoral Act 2022.

    Ogunrinde, however, urged the tribunal to dismiss the petition for being frivolous, gold digging and lacking in merit.

  • Chief Imam of Ibadanland installs Alhaji Iyiola as Bashorun Musulumi

    Chief Imam of Ibadanland installs Alhaji Iyiola as Bashorun Musulumi

    In a significant religious and cultural ceremony held in Ibadan, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, His Eminence Sheikh Abdulganiyy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, has officially installed Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Iyiola as the Bashorun Musulumi of Ibadanland.

    The title, one of the highest honours within the Muslim community in the city, is reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to the growth of Islam and service to humanity.

    Dignitaries from across Oyo State and beyond gathered to witness the momentous occasion, praising Dr. Iyiola’s philanthropic work, leadership, and contributions to Islamic development.

    The Chief Imam, in his remarks, described the new Bashorun Musulumi as “a bridge between generations and a symbol of peace, progress, and religious responsibility.”

    Dr. Iyiola expressed deep gratitude for the honour, pledging to continue working for the unity, education, and empowerment of Muslims in Ibadan and beyond.

    Among the dignitaries who graced the august event are Senator Teslim Folarin, Bashorun Saheed Suberu, Chief Abiola Iyiola, Dr Azeez Adeduntan, and Barr. Akeem Agbaje.

  • Foundation empowers youths, supports elderly in Lagos, Osun, Oyo

    Foundation empowers youths, supports elderly in Lagos, Osun, Oyo

    The Okanlomo Foundation has concluded its multi-state empowerment and humanitarian intervention across Lagos, Osun and Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The foundation reaffirmed commitment towards sustainable community development, social inclusion and promotion of human dignity.

    Its founder, Oluwatosin Akinyemi, said the initiative combined youth skills empowerment with elderly welfare support, addressing economic vulnerability and social care needs in underserved communities. 

    According to her, the programme was designed to create long-term impact through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support and targeted humanitarian assistance.

    Akinyemi said: “Okanlomo Foundation is a non-governmental organisation focused on empowering individuals and communities through skills development, entrepreneurship promotion and social welfare initiatives. 

    “The Foundation programmes are aimed at providing sustainable solutions that improve livelihoods, support vulnerable populations and contribute to the attainment of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria.

    “As part of the empowerment programme, the Foundation implemented a four-month intensive training in fashion design and makeup artistry, during which eight beneficiaries were trained and certified. 

    “The training was delivered in collaboration with Phitos Glam and Anike Clothings, providing participants with hands-on, industry-relevant skills targeted at self-employment and economic independence.

    “To further strengthen sustainability outcomes, beneficiaries also participated in a comprehensive entrepreneurship and business development session facilitated by Temitayo Adewole, National Business Development Service Provider  (NBDSP). 

    “The session covered enterprise structuring, customer acquisition, pricing strategies and business growth, equipping participants with practical tools to successfully launch and manage their businesses.”

    Akinyemi thanked partners, facilitators, volunteers and supporters for their contributions to the success of the programme. 

    She emphasised importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development, noting that the Foundation remained open to partnerships with government institutions, corporate organisations, individuals and other non-profit bodies to scale its impact.

    “Beyond youth empowerment, the Foundation also extended its humanitarian outreach to elderly citizens. In partnership with Omojolagbe Geriatric Care Foundation, Ibadan, food items and essential gift packages were distributed to 90 elderly persons across Lagos and Ibadan. 

    Read Also: Nigeria eyes $7.5b global ginger market

    “The intervention was aimed at providing immediate relief while promoting dignity, care and social inclusion for senior citizens.”

    Founder of Omojolagbe Geriatric Care Foundation, Dr. Ojo Florence, expressed gratitude for the support received and commended Okanlomo Foundation for its commitment to elderly welfare.

    She prayed for the organisation and expressed hope for continued collaboration in serving the aged population.

    The Foundation noted that the initiative aligned with several SDGs, including SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

    One of the beneficiaries, Ogunowo Valentina described the programme as life-changing, stating that it enabled her to acquire her desired skill despite financial limitations. 

    She however said the training has positioned her for self-reliance and economic empowerment.

  • Experts, artists explore post-capitalist ideas at ‘Ileya’ NFT event in Lagos

    Experts, artists explore post-capitalist ideas at ‘Ileya’ NFT event in Lagos

    As global society continues to evolve through rapid technological advancement, Web3 experts, artists, and change-driven enthusiasts have examined post-capitalist ideals and explored opportunities within the blockchain ecosystem, particularly through non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and their regulation.

    The event, tagged ‘Ileya’ and organised by Ola and Co. Inc., was held in Lagos on Saturday with the theme “Post-Capitalist Desire.”

    The convener, Web3 developer and business transformation expert, Mr. Obafemi Odejayi, explained that the concept of ‘Ileya’ is rooted in its name, which signifies a call to bring home ideas acquired from the diaspora and literature, and translate them into practical and attainable realities.

    “We are bringing back tangible physical art pieces from the diaspora, as well as NFT digital art works from artists abroad and within Lagos,” he said.

    Odejayi noted that the theme reflects concerns about the pervasive nature of capitalism across the globe, adding that the event was designed to explore how Web3 tools can be deployed for community building.

    He said this year’s ‘Ileya’ focused on NFT auctions, art exhibitions, and panel sessions aimed at stimulating thought and inspiring action.

    Highlighting the broader potential of the Web3 space, Odejayi said the technology could be applied beyond finance to support community and social initiatives such as voting, community sanitation, skill development, management of community centres, and other activities without the need for intermediaries.

    “My target audience, ” he stressed, “is not super defined but for people who want a change and are looking to rediscover the concept of Demos in democracy. In this system, they can’t change the post when the term is over. The NFT auction that started that day continues until the end of the year at gallery.olaco.xyz.

    “Individuals have too little power in the state now, but with web3 tech, everyone is responsible for coming together and driving meaningful change. The blockchain is transparent and reveals those who participate in its networks or otherwise,” the Convener added.

    However, Submissions from an Artist, Chinedu Offor, expounded on the need to prioritize Education, stating that when people become dissatisfied and frustrated, they often lash out through various evil vices. However, with education, they get the right knowledge and build strong associations to brainstorm and pave the way forward.

    “Capitalist desire is to answer the question before us as a generation to build the world we want to live in, identify the questions before us, and our role in shaping the future. Web3 can also be a tool for freedom from slavery. Education is a day-to-day pursuit of curiosity to follow your passion.” Mrs Omolara explained.

    She added that if people do not eat, they will be unable to think of freedom or success; hence, poverty is used as a tool by the capitalist to deprive the masses of the right education that enlightens them on how to gain financial independence.

    ‘Ileya’ 2025, with many exhibitors featured, Artist Ayomide Grey, an exhibitor who cited the relevance of the views of artists to the social and economic vices in society. As related to the theme of post-capitalism, he disclosed that his pieces on display were focused on economic challenges, personal identity, and cross-cultural adaptation. “It’s our job to reflect the society and make it obvious out there,” he stated.

    Furthermore, a participant, CEO, Folahan Fabrics, Dame Yetunde Odejayi, examined the significance of the event for mental liberation. She envisioned the program as an empowerment for the minds of the people to think and rethink why everyone should own up to themselves.