The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Re-elect Tinubu to consolidate his reforms, says Faleke

    Re-elect Tinubu to consolidate his reforms, says Faleke

    The Director General of Tinubu Campaign Council in the 2023 Presidential Election, James Abiodun Faleke, has urged Nigerians to prepare to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    Faleke, national coordinator, Presidential Coalition Council (PCC), said Nigerians should vote for President Tinubu again so that he could consolidate on the commendable far-reaching reforms his administration had embarked on.

    Speaking in Ibadan at the launching of PCC and sensitisation of the policies of the President Tinubu administration to the people of Oyo State, Faleke, represented by Abiodun Mafe, urged All Progressives Congress (APC) members to continue to win people to the party and spread the gospel of good governance.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    The launch of the council and sensitisation initiative was organised and sponsored by Mr. Ayotunde Bakare.

    A member of the PCC team from Abuja, Abdullah Enilolobo, said the launch of PCC, beginning from Ibadan, was strategic, as Ibadan controlled half of Oyo State total votes.

    He lauded Bakare for using his personal resources to organise the launch of PCC and sensitisation of the policies of the Tinubu administration.

    Thanking the PCC team from Abuja, he expressed delight about their support, saying Faleke was not new to presidential victory, as he was the DG of Tinubu Campaign Council in 2023.

  • Lagos agency gets kudos over inauguration

    Lagos agency gets kudos over inauguration

    Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) has congratulated Lagos Water Corporation on the inauguration of the fully rehabilitated Akilo water facility, with a production capacity of one million gallons per day.

    It described the project as a major boost to access safe and potable water.

    The facility, executed in collaboration with development partner, WaterAid, is expected to improve water supply to benefiting communities, in line with the Lagos State Government’s drive to expand access to clean water for residents.

    Speaking on the development, the Executive Secretary of LASWARCO, Mrs. Khadijah Adeyemo, reaffirmed the commission’s statutory responsibility to regulate and ensure water produced and distributed across the state met approved quality standards.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    She hailed Lagos Water Corporation and its management team for their dedication to the successful completion of the project, noting that the rehabilitation of Akilo facility represented a critical intervention in strengthening water infrastructure across Lagos State.

    The inauguration of Akilo water facility further underscored the commitment of Lagos State Government to improving public utilities and enhancing the quality of life of residents, with continued support from development partners such as WaterAid.

    LASWARCO assured stakeholders that it would continue to work with relevant agencies and partners to promote compliance with water quality standards and guarantee sustainable access to safe water for all Lagosians.

  • Ex-lawmaker condemns land grabbing

    Ex-lawmaker condemns land grabbing

    A former member of the House of Representatives and ex-deputy president of Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Joseph Akinlaja, has condemned land grabbing.

    He described it as an ille¬gal acquisition of land through force, intimida¬tion, or manipulation.

    He noted that the crime should be condemned.

    The foremost labour leader and an astute politician, who in May was appointed by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as one of the members of Ondo State Task Force on Property Protection and Anti-Land Grabbing, hailed the state government for taking steps to nip the menace in the bud, no matter whose ox is gored.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    Akinlaja, reiterating one of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s positions on land grabbing, said: “Land is more than just property. It is our heritage, a birth right, and the foundation of community identity. We will not stand by and allow criminals to rob our people of what rightfully belongs to them.”

    Highlighting the grave consequences of land grabbing, including the destruction of property and loss of lives, Akinlaja, in a chat with reporters at his Ondo home, reiterated the need for a collaborative approach ‘’in tackling this issue.’’

    He stressed the commitment of the Governor Aiyedatiwa administration to eradicate land grabbing.

  • Edo council buys 10 transformers

    Edo council buys 10 transformers

    Authorities of Egor Local Government Area of Edo State have purchased 10 transformers, to be distributed to communities without electricity.

    The council bought the transformers after it received 57 requests from communities asking for transformers.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    Acting Chairman, Osaro Eribo, said the purchase of the transformers was also to embark on rural electrification project.

    He said the transformers would be shared among communities in the 10 wards in the local government.

    He said high revenue accruing to the council enabled him to execute projects within a few weeks in office.

  • Princess Adekogbe for burial

    Princess Adekogbe for burial

    The burial rites of Princess Comfort Modupe Adekogbe (nee Ogunmosu), the Iyalode of Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, will take place between December 28 and 31. She was 85.

    The four-day obsequies will begin with a Night of Tributes tomorrow at her Itoro Street, Ogun State home.

    Activities will include a funeral rally, wake keep, lying-in-state and funeral service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ilese-Ijebu, on Saturday, followed by a reception.

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    A thanksgiving service will conclude the rites on Sunday.

    The late matriarch was celebrated for her service, leadership and enduring legacy.

  • Whitefield Foundation empowers 1,000 less-privileged in Lagos 

    Whitefield Foundation empowers 1,000 less-privileged in Lagos 

    Whitefield Foundation, a social enterprise committed to reducing poverty and expanding access to quality education, has ended its yearly ‘Season of Giving’ outreach, where it impacted over 1,000 disadvantaged individuals in Lagos.

    The outreach, held in the premises of St. Agnes Nursery & Primary School, St. Patrick’s Primary School, and St. Dominic’s Primary School, Sabo, Yaba, brought together pupils, teachers of the schools, families, and community members for encouragement, and community engagement, among others.

    In a statement, the Executive Director, Whitefield Foundation, Dr. Funmi Johnson, said, “Our focus is not only on short-term relief, but on restoring dignity and strengthening hope for families and children. ‘Season of Giving’ represents our commitment to stand with communities during challenging times and to ensure that children are supported in the classroom and at home.”

    As part of the outreach, she added, ”pupils from the three public primary schools received exercise books and Season of Giving–branded school bags.

    The initiative was designed to enhance learning readiness and ease the financial burden on parents, while encouraging pupils to remain engaged and motivated in their education.”

    ”In addition, families of the pupils benefited from food support through the distribution of family food sacks, each designed to feed a household of five for up to one month. The food packs contained essential staples, including garri, rice, vegetable oil, milk sachets, chocolate drink sachets, tomato purée sachets, and other food items. 

    Read Also: Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    This intervention provided immediate relief and contributed to improved food security during a period of 

    economic hardship.

    “The joy on the faces of the children and their parents reminds us why this work matters, When families are supported, children are better positioned to learn, grow, and dream,” she further said.

    Teachers, pupils, and key school supervisory personnel demonstrated strong cooperation 

    throughout the event, ensuring an orderly and efficient distribution. Their

    participation contributed to the success of the outreach.

    Whitefield Foundation expressed appreciation to Sony Music Entertainment West Africa as well as artist Morravey, for their support.

    ‘Season of Giving’ reinforces Whitefield Foundation’s commitment to 

    delivering holistic, community-centered interventions that address educational and social needs, she said. 

    The Foundation said it remains dedicated to strengthening partnerships and expanding initiatives that uplift children, families, and underserved communities across Nigeria.

    Through strategic partnerships and impact focused programmes, the Foundation works to create sustainable social change across Nigeria. 

  • First Lady lifts 250 elderly citizens in Oyo

    First Lady lifts 250 elderly citizens in Oyo

    First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme, has enhanced well-being of 250 elderly citizens across Oyo State.

    At the 3rd Edition of her Renewed Hope Initiative Elderly Support Scheme (RHIESS) with the theme “Finding Joy in old age”, each of the 250 elderly citizens received N200,000 each.

    Speaking at the event in Ibadan, the First Lady, who was represented by wife of Oyo Governor, Mrs Tamunominini Makinde urged the elderly to prioritise their heath and spend quality time with their loved ones.

    She stated that the occasion would provide further support to the elderly citizens during the Christmas and New year festive season.

    She said: “A total of One Billion, Nine Hundred Million Naira (N1,900,000,000) will be disbursed across the nation. The RHI Coordinators in the 36 States of the federation, the FCT and DEPOWA have received Fifty Million Naira (N50,000,000) each, out of which N200,000 will be distributed today to each beneficiary. In addition to this, free medical check-ups and other sundry items will be provided”.

    According to the First Lady, the programme was aimed at reassuring the elderly that they were loved and not forgotten especially during the festive season.

    She reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu towards the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

    “This programme is designed to support the welfare of our elderly citizens annually. Two Hundred and Fifty elderly citizens, aged 65 and above in all 36 States of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and veterans from the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA) will be benefiting from this scheme.”

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun described the event as a clear demonstration of compassion, care and commitment to the welfare of the elderly citizens.

    She stated that the state is deeply honored by the love and concern shown by Mrs Tinubu who extended support and encouragement to senior citizens in the state.

    She also thanked Makinde’s wife for her dedication towards the wellbeing of people.

    She noted that the event reflected government shared belief that the elderly deserve dignity, quality healthcare and continuos support.

    She however said today’s outreach will not only improved health outcomes but also reaffirmed collective responsibility to cater or those who have contributed immensely to the development of the society.

  • J. K. Randle memorial service holds Wednesday

    J. K. Randle memorial service holds Wednesday

    The Annual Thanksgiving and Memorial Service for Chief J. K. Randle, the Lisa of Lagos, will hold at 2pm tomorrow at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos.

    He died on December 17, 1956 at the age of 47, shortly after he returned from the Olympic Games in Melbourne, Australia. He was the Chef-De-Mission of Nigerian team comprising the Captain, the late Alhaji K. A. B. Olowu (Long Jump). The late Mr. Jack Farnsworth was the Team Manager.

    Chief Randle was an all-round sportsman. He competed in Athletics, Football, Cricket, etc, in addition to being an undefeated champion in draughts.

    He was a titan in business and a legend in philanthropy. Some of the beneficiaries of his generosity are two Christian schools – Holy Cross School, Lagos and C.M.S. Grammar School, Bariga, and two Moslem schools – Ahmadiya College, Agege and Ansar-Ud-Deen College, Isolo.

    In recognition of his contributions to the society, J. K. Randle Road, Onikan; Chief J. K. Randle Memorial Hall, Onikan; Randle General Hospital, Randle Road, Surulere; Randle Junior Secondary School, Apapa; Randle Senior Secondary School, Apapa; and Randle Road, Surulere, Lagos are named after him.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    He is survived by Bashorun J. K. Randle, former Chairman and Chief Executive of KPMG Nigeria; and Chairman of KPMG Africa; and past President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN); and Mrs. Iwalenia Adelaja.

    Chief J. K. Randle was the Chairman of Lagos Island Club and also Chairman of Lagos Race Club (Horse Racing). As Lisa of Lagos, he was the Prime Minister and in commemoration of his death, the Adamu Orisa Eyo Festival was held in his honour. He was an old boy of Kings College, Lagos.

  • Religious tolerance won’t be compromised, says Olubadan

    Religious tolerance won’t be compromised, says Olubadan

    Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, has said the current religious tolerance and freedom of worship in the ancient city would be sustained.

    He said he would ensure a situation where adherents were allowed to practise their religions without fear of molestation, intimidation and persecution.

    He spoke yesterday when the worshippers of Egungun Eleriko visited him at the Olubadan Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, according to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Chief Ayoade Olugbemiga.

    The monarch said: “I welcome you to Olubadan Palace like other religious practitioners as a father of all religions.

    READ ALSO: The death of local government

    “I need your prayers for the success of my reign, to sustain me, promote peaceful co-existence, rapid economic recovery and security of life and property in Ibadanland.”

    The leader of Eleriko Masquerader, Iyalode Atiba, said it had been their practice from time immemorial to pray and support any Olubadan on the throne.

    She promised to back Oba Ladoja , saying the reign of the paramount ruler would witness peace, religious harmony, protection of residents and economic prosperity in Ibadanland.

    Present at the event were Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Adeyeri, Oba Salawudeen Ajibade, Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Dauda Azeez, Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, masquerade leaders and followers.

  • PDP, APC trade words over Aiyedatiwa’s tour

    PDP, APC trade words over Aiyedatiwa’s tour

    The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State yesterday engaged in a war of words over Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s ongoing statewide thank-you tour.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa had begun a statewide tour of local governments to thank the people at the grassroots.

    The governor yesterday began the tour with the four Akoko local government areas, namely Akoko North-West, Akoko North-East, Akoko South-East and Akoko South-West, where he thanked residents for their support this year and galvanised backing for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

    But the PDP faulted the exercise, arguing that after two years in office, the governor should be inaugurating projects rather than touring communities.

    READ ALSO: Insecurity: Why are we defeated?

    In a statement by its Director of Media and Public Communications, Wande Ajayi, PDP described the tour as a distraction from governance.

    Reacting, APC dismissed PDP’s claims as misleading and politically-motivated.

    In a statement by its Director of Media and Publicity, Steve Otaloro, the ruling party described the thank-you tour as a legitimate democratic engagement.