The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Ooni of Ife, others for GAH Awards in Lagos

    Ooni of Ife, others for GAH Awards in Lagos

    The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and notable personalities will grace the 13th edition of the GAH Awards and Business Summit at Eko Hotels & Suites on the 12th of December 2025, a statement by the brains behind the awards,  Miss Joy Amiso has said.

     Amiso explained that this year’s event would bring the speakers who are coming from public service, aviation, human rights, development finance, legal advocacy, entrepreneurship, innovation, and the creative sectors to discuss the strategic importance and continental relevance of the conversations.

    She noted that the event was conceived as a platform for empowering individuals, strengthening industries, and amplifying the voices shaping Africa’s future.

    Read Also: Somolu lawmakers hail company’s chief’s philanthropy gesture

    Apart from Oba Ogunwusi, the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, and the founder of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, will also be among a list of speakers at the 13th GAH Awards and Business Summit, with the Theme “Africa Reimagined: Innovation, Inclusion & Sustainable Growth”.

    She said: ”Other confirmed speakers at the event are Dauda Lawal, Zamfara State Governor, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin – Founder, Women Arise Initiative,  Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, Minister of Interior, Dr. Adekunle Olayinka, Special Adviser to The Governor on Works & Infrastructure, Senator Ajibola Basiru, National Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), among others.

    “The continent is at a defining point where creativity, technology, policy reforms, youth-driven enterprise, and cross-sector collaboration are shaping an entirely new Africa. The theme reinforces the GAH mission to celebrate transformation while inspiring new pathways for continental development,” she added.

  • Osun marks World AIDS Day

    Osun marks World AIDS Day

    Osun State has commemorated World AIDS Day 2025 with a series of impactful, community-driven activities aimed at renewing commitment, raising awareness, and strengthening action toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.

    The event was themed, “Overcoming Disruptions; Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”

     Partners and stakeholders across the state delivered coordinated interventions that touched every segment of the population.

    The commemoration started with a vibrant road walk, featuring representatives from the TB, HIV, and Malaria programs, Network of people living with HIV( NEPWHAN), implementing partners, civil society groups, and community volunteers. Participants marched through major streets across Osun State, distributing educational materials and engaging residents on the importance of early testing, treatment adherence, and preventive practices.

    The road walk served as a powerful symbolic action to amplify visibility, reinforce solidarity, and mobilize community participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.

    A major highlight of the event was the rollout of comprehensive Integrated Testing Services, bringing essential health screening directly to the communities. These services included:

    Cutting-edge PDX diagnostic machines were deployed to conduct real-time screening for tuberculosis—particularly children and vulnerable groups. The use of these devices allowed for quicker identification of presumptive TB cases and immediate linkage to further evaluation.

    Read Also: Somolu lawmakers hail company’s chief’s philanthropy gesture

    Free, confidential HIV testing was offered to the general population, with special attention to pregnant women to strengthen the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) efforts. Trained counselors were available onsite to provide pre- and post-test counseling, ensuring individuals understood their results and next steps.

    Rapid malaria testing was also conducted for adults and children, supporting early diagnosis and reducing risk of complications. This integration reflected the state’s commitment to a holistic approach to public health.

    Throughout the activities, health educators and volunteers led awareness sessions addressing HIV prevention, stigma reduction, treatment adherence, benefits of knowing one’s status, and healthy lifestyle practices. These sensitization efforts targeted the general population, including youth, market women, transport unions, and rural communities. The interactive sessions helped demystify misconceptions around HIV, TB, and malaria, while encouraging individuals to take advantage of the free testing services available.

    The commemoration was coordinated by the Osun State Agency for the control of HIV in collaboration, State Aids Control Programme ( SASCP), Osun State Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (STBLCP), Osun State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP) with implementing partners.

  • Bolarinwa urges FG to strengthen border security

    Bolarinwa urges FG to strengthen border security

    There is a pressing need for effective monitoring and strong security at Nigeria’s borders if the government is truly committed to winning the ongoing battle against banditry and kidnapping, a former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bashir Omolaja Bolarinwa has said.

    Bolarinwa made this statement while discussing the insecurity in the country, with particular focus on Kwara State. He expressed that the level of insecurity in Kwara is alarming and represents a troubling development for a state traditionally known for its peace.

    Bolarinwa, who also served as the Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government, emphasized that local council chairmen play a vital role in addressing these issues due to their close connection with the communities.

    Read Also: Somolu lawmakers hail company’s chief’s philanthropy gesture

    He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for the steps taken thus far to confront these challenges.

    Bolarinwa elaborated on the importance of implementing a nationwide data capture system for both Nigerians and foreigners residing in the country to create credible identities. He also highlighted the necessity of installing CCTV cameras in dark areas nationwide across all 774 Local Government Areas.

    He called for diligent monitoring of the country’s forests and stressed the need for discipline, unity, sincerity, and collaboration among all security agencies.

  • Oyo govt partners pacesetter transport to host transport fest 1.0

    Oyo govt partners pacesetter transport to host transport fest 1.0

    The Oyo State Government, in partnership with Pacesetter Transport Service, is set to host Transport Fest 1.0 on December 19, 2025, at the Seyi Makinde Terminal, Eleyele Transport Park, Ibadan.

    The festival, billed as a celebration of the transport sector and a platform for youth engagement, promises an exciting mix of music, comedy, cultural displays, and interactive activities designed to bring the community together.

    Popular artistes, comedians, and social media influencers are expected to perform, creating a lively atmosphere for residents, transport workers, and visitors.

    Speaking ahead of the event, Hon. Dr. Dikko Salami, chairman and sole administrator of pacesetter transport service said, “TRANSPORT Fest 1.0 is more than just entertainment; it is a celebration of progress in Oyo State’s transport sector. We want our people, especially the youth, to see the potential in the transport industry, to understand its impact on daily life, and to engage with it creatively. This festival is our way of combining fun, culture, and community dialogue under one roof.”

    He further emphasized that the festival would serve as a platform for discussions on transport innovation, safety, and efficiency, reflecting the state government’s commitment to modernizing public transport while creating opportunities for the youth.

  • Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment

    Ogun moves to enforce cleaner environment

    Residents caught dumping refuse on roads will henceforth be arrested, corrected with compassion, and assigned community service as punishment, the Ogun State government has said.

    Commissioner for the Environment, Ola Oresanya stated this while briefing members of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council during their fourth quarterly meeting held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, on Thursday.

    Oresanya stressed that the law forbids dumping refuse on roadways, noting that streets are not designated as dump sites. He explained that residents are expected to place their refuse in front of their homes for Private Sector Participants (PSPs) to collect directly at their doorsteps.

    He revealed that the state government was refining its enforcement strategy by shifting away from monetary fines to reduce financial pressure on citizens. Instead, offenders will be required to undertake community service.

    According to him, Governor Dapo Abiodun was deeply concerned about environmental management in the state and is investing significantly in new equipment to strengthen the Ministry of Environment’s operations.

    “Under no condition should you dump refuse on the road. OGWAMA has the authority to arrest offenders, and those arrested will do community service.

    READ ALSO; FULL LIST: Countries banned, excluded from FIFA World Cups (1938- 2026)

    We will correct in love. You will sweep the road and collect refuse. When people see you doing that, they will understand the consequences, and you won’t return to the same habit,” he said.

    Oresanya added that Governor Abiodun has approved the procurement of brand-new trucks both for OGWAMA and the private waste sector to improve waste management across the state.

    Addressing the issue of noise pollution, the Commissioner disclosed that the ministry has shut several religious centres and other facilities found to be violating noise regulations.

    He encouraged residents to report such disturbances through the ministry’s dedicated helpline: 09010480056.

    He explained that sanitation should be a daily responsibility rather than a once-a-month ritual. He noted that Section 6 of the Constitution empowers Local Government Health Officers to inspect homes, ensure bins are not overflowing, and prosecute erring households.

    Oresanya added that safety consultants from the ministry are inspecting gas plants across the state to ensure compliance with safety standards, with substandard facilities set to be shut down soon.

    Commending the ministry’s recent intervention in Ogijo, Chief (Mrs.) Iyabo Apampa urged the commissioner to also address air pollution and indiscriminate parking of trailers around Ibese and Papalanto where cement factories operate.

    Chairman of the Governor’s Elders Advisory Council, Chief Olu Okuboyejo, applauded the state government’s efforts in waste management and agricultural development.

  • Ogun tasks monarchs on contribution to national matters

    Ogun tasks monarchs on contribution to national matters

    Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has called on traditional rulers across the state to continue lending their royal voices to national matters, as well as issues affecting governance and the well-being of the people of the state.

     The Governor made this call during the Statutory Meeting of the Ogun State Council of Obas, held at the Obas’ Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

     Represented by the Commissioner, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiyu Hamzat, Governor Abiodun acknowledged the invaluable roles of traditional rulers in preserving culture, fostering peace and promoting sustainable development.

     “I encourage all our Kabiyesi at this meeting to engage in constructive dialogue, share informed perspectives and explore practical solutions to current challenges. Your contributions will not only complement government’s efforts, but also play a crucial role in building a stronger, more united, and prosperous nation,” he stated.

     He underscored the importance of collaborative governance, with traditional rulers playing a pivotal part in shaping the socio-political landscape of the state.

     In his remarks, the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, appreciated all the monarchs present at the final statutory meeting for 2025.

    READ ALSO: FULL LIST: 2026 World Cup new entrants

     He stressed the need for unity among traditional rulers and cautioned against actions that could bring disrepute to the revered royal institution.

     He pledged the continued support of the Council to the Ministry in safeguarding the dignity and sanctity of the traditional system.

    Highlight of the meeting was the heartfelt tributes and contributions from monarchs representing the four divisions of Ogun State on the late Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba. Sikiru Adetona.

  • Ondo farmers protest at Governor’s Office over alleged assault

    Ondo farmers protest at Governor’s Office over alleged assault

    Peasant farmers from the government forest reserves in Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State yesterday protested alleged harassment and assaults on their farms.

    The farmers accused Mr Damilola Olowoniyi, described as a government-backed agent, of intimidation, assault and disrupting their access to farms.

    The Nation reports that armed with placards, the protesting farmers marched to the Governor’s Office, demanding urgent intervention.

    Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr. Adesoji Awotale said despite being legally allocated portions of the forest reserve by the state government, the farmers had been subjected to continuous harassment.

    Awotale said the conflict escalated after the government sold about 10,000 hectares in the OA3A section of Oluwa Forest Reserve to a private investor, SAO.

    He said the development prompted protests from long-time occupants, who had cultivated the land for over two decades with cash crops.

    He added that following the protests, the government ceded 2,000 hectares to three affected communities, including Irore Ajelanwa, which received 261 hectares backed by verified government documents.

    Read Also: Farmer debunks allegations of land grabbing, cultism in Ondo

    Awotale said the farmers had been paying annual dues ranging from N2 million to N3 million and were preparing to renew payments before the alleged attacks escalated.

    “We have been paying our annual dues in millions and were even planning to pay this year’s dues before December 15. But we feel we cannot continue to be oppressed, threatened and marginalised on the small piece of land we occupy,” he said.

    He said complaints had been sent to the Commissioner of Police, Assistant Inspector-General of Police and even the Inspector-General of Police, but they had yielded no action.

    “We went to the National Assembly too to seek intervention, but a scheduled meeting did not hold due to the absence of a key representative. We are now arranging for another meeting,” Awotale said.

    He lamented that many elderly farmers, aged between 60 and 80, had abandoned their farms for fear of attacks, describing the situation as inhumane and economically-devastating for families who depended on the crops for survival.

    Addressing the protesters, Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Olaleye Akinola, assured them that the government had acknowledged their grievances.

    He said the government had invited Olowoniyi to a meeting to address the issues and grievances of the farmers.

    “We have convened a meeting with Olowoniyi holding tomorrow, where we will all sit together with representatives from your side. I can assure you that the government will do something about it,” he said.

    Efforts to reach Olowoniyi for his reaction proved abortive, as his line was not connecting at press time.

  • Seven-man panel to probe alleged kidney removal at EKSUTH

    Seven-man panel to probe alleged kidney removal at EKSUTH

    The management of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, has constituted a seven-man panel to investigate an allegation by a patient, Mr Joshua Afolayan, regarding the removal of his kidney during a medical procedure at the hospital.

    A statement by the Head, Corporate Affairs, EKSUTH, Mrs Rolake Adewumi, yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, said the hospital’s Board Chairman, Dr Adedamola Dada, announced the setting up of the panel.

    According to the statement, the panel has Prof. Francis Faduyile, an anatomic pathologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, as the chairman.

    Other members include Prof. Patrick Adegun of the Federal University, Oye Ekiti; Dr Henry Abiyere, Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido–Ekiti; and Dr Adebola Adeniyi-Agbaje, General Manager, Progress F.M. Ado-Ekiti.

    Read Also: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s rights breach case against DSS, AGF

    The panel also has Rev. Emmanuel Aribasoye, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, Ekiti State branch; Prof. Babatunde Akindele, the Elemo of Ado-Ekiti; and Mr Adebayo Titilayo, the Legal Adviser to Ekiti State Ministry of Health, who will serve as Secretary.

    According to the statement, the panel has 10 days to submit its report.

    “The hospital management reassures the public that no stone will be left unturned to determine the issues involved in this matter,” it stated.

    The statement noted that members of the panel are independent and responsible members of the society that will exhibit fairness and justice.

    It urged the affected parties to cooperate with the panel.

  • Lagos honours 17 retired perm secs

    Lagos honours 17 retired perm secs

    Lagos State Government yesterday celebrated 17 retired permanent secretaries at a colourful pens-down ceremony held in their honour, marking the conclusion of over three decades of dedicated and unblemished service to the state.

    Speaking at the event held at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Bode Agoro, described the ceremony as a celebration of commitment, perseverance and exceptional public service.

    He said every employee aspired to begin their career well and ended it even stronger, in good health and sound mind-an achievement the celebrants had attained.

    Agoro welcomed dignitaries, families, friends and well-wishers, noting that the occasion was unique because it recognised individuals who had given more than 30 years of exemplary service to the good people of Lagos State.

    He thanked God on behalf of the retirees for seeing them through a successful journey in public service.

    He expressed the state government’s appreciation for the retirees’ “unquestionable loyalty, commitment, dedication and sacrifices,” affirming that their contributions had shaped the growth and development of Lagos State.

    Read Also: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s rights breach case against DSS, AGF

    The HoS assured the retirees that their relationship with the state did not end with their exit from service, noting that their expertise would continue to be engaged through the Association of Lagos State Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries (ALARHOSPS).

    He thanked Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat for his support of public service initiatives, and hailed the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. ’Sunkanmi Oyegbola, and her team for organising a befitting ceremony.

    Responding on behalf of the 17 retired permanent secretaries, Mrs. Adekanye Amudat thanked God for preserving their lives to witness the special day.

    She expressed gratitude to Lagos State Government for the honour bestowed on them and assured the government that though retired, they remained “not tired.”

    She pledged their continued support and prayers for the growth and progress of Lagos State.

  • Assembly slams Obaseki, threatens arrest warrant

    Assembly slams Obaseki, threatens arrest warrant

    Edo State House of Assembly Ad hoc Committee constituted to investigate the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and Radisson Hotel has slammed former Governor Godwin Obaseki for refusing to appear before the committee.

    It said it had powers to ask the police to bring any individual before it to answer questions.

    The committee said those declining to appear before it could not claim they were refused right to fair hearing.

    Governor Monday Okpebholo had asked the assembly to probe funding and ownership of the projects, including extent of the state government N3.8billion investment in MOWAA and N28billion in Radisson Hotel.

    Other persons invited to appear before the committee yesterday included a former Edo Finance Commissioner, Mr. Joseph Eboigbe, ex-Attorney General of Edo State, Mr. Oluwole Osaze-Uzzi, Managing Director, Tilbury House Nigeria Limited, Mr. Pramod Thorat, Project Manager of Hospitality Investment and Management Company (HIMC), Mr. Ugochukwu Anigbogu, Managing Director, Afrinvest Capital Limited, Managing Director, Meristem Trustees Limited and Managing Director, Emerging Africa Trustees Ltd.

    At the resumed sitting of the committee, Obaseki and others sent letters through their lawyers stating reasons why they declined the committee’s invitation.

    Read Also: Appeal Court strikes out Nnamdi Kanu’s rights breach case against DSS, AGF

    They cited lawsuit filed in courts against MOWAA as reasons for their absence.

    Chairman of the Ad hoc Committee, Addeh Isibor, expressed disappointment about the action of Obaseki and others.

    Isibor said the committee was on a fact finding and not to witch-hunt anybody.

    The lawmaker said the committee would submit its report based on fact.

    He said: “These gentlemen have unilaterally chosen to absent themselves that there exist court cases regarding our sitting or issues under consideration.

    “We know position of the law. We are not dunces but cerebral people. We are constitutionally mandated to carry out investigation or hearing on any matter to which we have the power of appropriation.

    “The mere filing of a suit in court cannot amount to stay of proceeding. They ran to court after we began the public hearing.

    “No judge can stop our sitting. We will reach a decision on the matter. If you choose not to make yourself available, you cannot claim you were refused right to fair hearing.

    “It is more offensive that none of the SANs attached court processes to the letters. They know they rushed to court at midnight. These are empty letters.

    “They want to stop this committee from getting to the root of the matter. We reject the letters as lacking in merit. Edo Assembly is not a party to the suit.

    “The committee has powers to ask the police to bring those concerns here. We have no letter stopping the committee from completing its assignment.”