The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Edo Traditional Council hails Okpebholo’s transformational strides

    Edo Traditional Council hails Okpebholo’s transformational strides

    The Eziobe Traditional Council (ETC) of Igarra, in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, has hailed Governor Monday Okpebholo for his exceptional leadership, inclusive governance and remarkable developmental achievements within his first year in office.

    In a statement at the council’s meeting in Igarra, the traditional rulers extolled the governor for demonstrating a clear vision for growth and for restoring the confidence of Edo people in government through visible and people-oriented projects.

    The council applauded the governor for the ongoing rebuilding of the long-abandoned Auchi–Ikpeshi–Igarra–Ibillo Road, describing the project as a major economic lifeline for the people of Akoko-Edo and other travellers.

    The monarchs noted that the road, when completed, would boost commerce, improve accessibility and enhance the quality of life for residents and commuters along that corridor.

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    They also commended the governor for the award of 28 new road contracts covering over 255 kilometres across the three senatorial districts of Edo State, as well as the commencement of the first-ever flyovers at Ramat Park and Adesuwa–Sapele Junction in Benin City.

    “These projects demonstrate a leadership that is both visionary and inclusive,” the council stated.

    “For the first time in many years, rural and urban communities are receiving equal attention in Edo State’s development plan.”

    The statement signed by the Secretary of the council, Sunday Saiki, hailed Governor Okpebholo’s proactive approach to security, citing the enactment of a new anti-cultism law, the recruitment of over 2,500 operatives into the Edo State Security Network, and the provision of operational vehicles and motorcycles to security agencies across the state.

    According to the council, ‘’these initiatives have led to a significant reduction in crime and have made Edo safer for residents, investors, and visitors alike.’’

    The monarchs pledged continued collaboration with the state government and security agencies to ensure lasting peace in their domains.

    The statement also listed the governor’s achievements in the health and education sectors, including the building of new Primary Health Centres in rural communities, establishment of a 100-bed Specialist Hospital in Udomi, and the deployment of diagnostic equipment to enhance medical care delivery across the state.

    In education, the council lauded the employment of over 5,000 teachers, the rehabilitation of 63 public schools, and the increase of monthly subvention to Ambrose Alli University from N41 million to N500 million.

    These, the monarchs said, reflected the administration’s commitment to human capital development and the future of Edo youths.

    The council also praised the N1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small business owners and traders, as well as the governor’s renewed investment in agriculture — increasing the sector’s budget from N4.5 billion to nearly N70 billion, with over 400 hectares of farmland already cultivated and producing harvests.

    “Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has brought a new wave of hope to our people,” the council noted. “His focus on agriculture, education and enterprise empowerment shows Edo’s growth is being built on sustainability and inclusion.”

    It reaffirmed its total support for the administration’s agenda and pledged continuous partnership in the pursuit of peace, prosperity and unity in Edo State.

    “From Akoko-Edo to Esanland and Benin, our people now see government as a partner, not a distant authority. Governor Okpebholo has proven that with sincerity of purpose and fairness to all, Edo can once again take its pride of place as the heartbeat of the nation,” the council said.

  • Ondo farmers, indigenes cry out over land grabbing

    Ondo farmers, indigenes cry out over land grabbing

    Aggrieved farmers and indigenes of communities in Ondo East Local Government Area of Ondo State have appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene in a lingering land crisis threatening peace and livelihood in their domain.

    The residents, drawn from about 10 communities in the council, alleged that their farmlands were being forcefully taken over by individuals suspected to be “land grabbers” without due process or government approval.

    The protesters, who stormed the Press Centre of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Akure yesterday, displayed placards with inscriptions such as “Killer Gang! Land Grabbers, Criminals Not King,”; “Our Able Governor! Curb Tenants/Land Grabbers’ Excesses,”; “Rented Crowd Can’t Undo Family Inheritance With Verified Court Judgments,” among several others.

    Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Mr Idowu Akinmoladun said several court cases on the disputed land had been decided in favour of the Ajisafe family.

    He alleged that a prominent politician and former federal lawmaker in the area, Joseph Akinlaja, was allegedly backing the land grabbers.

    Read Also: Senate seeks urgent construction of Ode–Omifufu–Ofosu road to link Ondo, Edo

    “We are here to appeal to Governor Aiyedatiwa to investigate this matter. They have stained the name of the Ajisafe family, but we are not land grabbers.

    “This land in question has four court judgments in our favour. We are law-abiding citizens and only want justice to prevail. We appeal to the governor to allow the Ajisafe family to reclaim their land,” Akinmoladun said.

    Another protester, Mr. Ademola Ajibade, also urged the governor to intervene in the dispute, describing the allegation that one of the family members, Mr. Ojo Ajisafe, was a land grabber as false.

    Ajibade claimed that two individuals parading themselves as traditional rulers – the Olu of Igba, Oba Sina Olayele, and the Olu of Uloko Agboden, HRH Moses Awonusi Apalara – were self-acclaimed and no longer recognised leaders.

    He said the duo, who were recently arrested and charged to court, allegedly attacked a farmer with a broken bottle over land dispute.

    He presented a letter from the Ondo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, dated June 27, 2023, and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Bolani Obideyi, which directed that no further appointment or installation of minor chiefs should be made in the area, to avoid a breach of peace.

    The letter titled: “Alleged Installation of Olus by the Yangede of Epe”, was addressed to the Chairman of Ondo East Local Government and read in part: “I am directed to inform you that the circular of the state government stands. Therefore, you are to please inform His Highness, the Yangede of Epe, to stop any further appointment and installation of minor chiefs within Ondo East Local Government, so as not to cause any breach of peace in Ondo Kingdom.”

    The protesters, however, presented Chief Olu Faloye, the Baale of Agbondin, as the authentic traditional ruler of the community.

    They displayed a certificate issued by the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom confirming his appointment and installation.

  • Lagos to host Africa’s biggest wedding expo

    Lagos to host Africa’s biggest wedding expo

    Africa’s most anticipated wedding and lifestyle event, Africa Wedding Expo 2025, is set to hold on November 28 at NECA House, Ikeja, Lagos.

    The event will bring together credible wedding vendors, intending couples, event planners, lifestyle brands and family-oriented organisations from across the continent.

    Dayo Falade DOF, popularly known in the the industry as sme-doctor, who is spearheading the event said: “Africa Wedding Expo is the biggest gathering of credible wedding vendors, intending couples, event planners, and industry stakeholders across Africa. But more than an exposition, it’s a wholesome therapeutic family experience that blends culture, tradition, and lifestyle.”

    The event promotes unity in diversity by connecting families, intending couples, and brands that embody African values. It’s everything wedding a one-stop experience where attendees can literally plan their entire wedding in a single day.

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    When asked about his famous statement that “the wedding industry is the father of all industries in Africa,” Falade explained:

    “The wedding institution is the only one God Himself initiated and structured. Every human — whether a doctor, journalist, realtor, or creative, is a product of a wedding, a product of a family. Every profession, every economy, traces back to that divine foundation.”

    He further highlighted how weddings power multiple sectors simultaneously, from fashion, beauty, catering, and hospitality, to photography, entertainment, real estate, and travel.

    “Weddings drive multiple economies at once it’s love translated into business, culture, and community. Every business and every generation begins with marriage,” Falade stated.

    He added that love remains the one language understood across the world, capable of uniting tribes, beliefs, and nations.

    The Expo unites couples, vendors, brands, and small businesses from across the continent to honor Africa’s most powerful social and economic institution — marriage.

  • Nigeria regaining credibility on security — Southwest Muslims reject Trump’s claim 

    Nigeria regaining credibility on security — Southwest Muslims reject Trump’s claim 

    The Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN) has dismissed the recent claim by former U.S. President Donald Trump alleging genocide in Nigeria, describing it as baseless and misleading.

    According to the group, President Bola Tinubu’s administration is making steady progress in restoring Nigeria’s international credibility through ongoing reforms and developmental efforts.

    Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to herald MUSWEN’s 10th General Assembly, themed “Nigeria’s Economy: Any Hope for the Masses?”, the organisation’s President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, described Trump’s claim as “abnormal” and ill-timed.

    Oladejo said, “The recent designation of Nigeria by the United States President as a Country of Particular Concern came to us as both a surprise and an abnormality. It is coming at a time when Nigeria is regaining credibility after years of insecurity, corruption scandals, and image erosion.”

    He condemned the re-designation as “unfortunate and misplaced,” accusing the U.S. of double standards in international diplomacy, particularly in its handling of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

    Citing Article II of the 1948 United Nations Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide and Article 6 of the Rome Statute, Oladejo argued that Nigeria does not meet the criteria to be tagged as a “country of particular concern.”

    He further stated that the timing of Trump’s comments “calls for serious concern,” adding that his motive appears “neither altruistic nor sincere, but rather driven by ulterior economic and political interests.”

    READ ALSO: PDP suffering from self-inflicted injuries, says Wabara

    “There is nothing like genocide against a particular faith in Nigeria. If there is anything, both major religious groups, Christianity and Islam, suffer equally from the unfortunate onslaughts of the bandits and insurgents.”

    He held that Muslim are most affected by insurgency in Niger, Kaduna, Adamawa, Borno, Yobe, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi and Kwara states.

    Speaking about the forthcoming event of the Muslim Ummah, Oladejo, he disclosed that it will be held in Osun State which will be attended by President Bola Tinubu and other dignitaries. 

    He added, “We shall be raising a N2b fund, aimed at Economic Empowerment; Scholarships/Bursay Awards; training in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Data Informatics to make our youths employable.

    He said part of the fund will be utilised in the construction of the body’s modern Headquarters, provide health – care facilities with the state-of-the-art medical diagnostics and other infrastructures for the benefit of the Muslim Ummah across the six South West States. 

  • Abiodun hails A/Court president for approving Ogun Division

    Abiodun hails A/Court president for approving Ogun Division

    …says move will boost justice, economic growth

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commended the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, for approving the establishment of the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal, describing it as a landmark decision that will deepen justice delivery and strengthen the ease of doing business in the state.

    The governor made the remarks while addressing participants at the State Treasury Board Meeting for the 2025–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2026 Budget Session held at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

     He expressed profound gratitude to Justice Dongban-Mensem for what he called a visionary and pragmatic approval that recognises Ogun State’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s judicial and economic landscape, noting that she has demonstrated exceptional understanding of the challenges faced by the state and its growing judicial workload.

    Abiodun said the President of the Court of Appeal deserves commendation for graciously approving the establishment of the Ogun State Division of the Court of Appeal, adding that her leadership has brought renewed vigour to the appellate system. 

    He said her decision reflects a deep commitment to justice, fairness, and accessibility, noting that she has shown outstanding foresight by granting the approval in response to the peculiar needs of Ogun State.

    The governor explained that the state government had earlier met all requirements set by the Court of Appeal for the establishment of the new division. 

    He said his administration had deliberately ensured that every necessary condition was fulfilled, from providing land to ensuring infrastructure readiness because of the value the institution brings to the justice system and the state’s economy.

    Abiodun stressed that the new court would not only bring justice closer to the people but would also play a key role in enhancing investor confidence and promoting economic growth.

     He said the project was a major pillar in the state’s Ease of Doing Business Index and a significant enabler of commercial activity. 

    According to him, about 75 percent of appeal cases handled by the Ibadan Division originate from Ogun State, making it imperative to have a division in Abeokuta where business and commercial disputes can be dispensed with expeditiously, giving investors greater confidence to invest in the state.

    The governor revealed that the site for the new Court of Appeal complex had already been secured adjacent to the Judiciary Complex along Kobape Road, Abeokuta, and that construction would begin immediately.

    He said his administration would not wait for federal funding before commencing the project and would finance it pending future reimbursement, adding that the court would be completed and fully operational before the end of his tenure.

    Abiodun reiterated that the establishment of the Abeokuta Division was a testament to the foresight and fairness of Justice Dongban-Mensem and her dedication to efficient justice delivery across the country. 

    He said the new division would significantly decongest the Ibadan Division, ensure timely resolution of appeals, and bring judicial services closer to the people of Ogun State.

    The governor also commended the Ogun State judiciary for its steadfast cooperation and professionalism, describing it as the last hope of the common man and a vital partner in the state’s progress. 

    He said the synergy between the executive and judicial arms of government had contributed immensely to the successes recorded by his administration and reaffirmed his commitment to providing the judiciary with the best working environment and support.

    Abiodun said the decision to establish the new Court of Appeal division was both a judicial and governance milestone, aligning perfectly with his administration’s commitment to institutional reform, equitable governance, and economic development. 

    He described the move as a legacy project that would stand as a symbol of collaboration between the federal judiciary and the Ogun State Government.

    The governor concluded by saying that the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal would revolutionise the justice delivery system in Ogun State, reduce delays, and make justice swifter, fairer, and more accessible, while reinforcing confidence in governance and the rule of law.

  • LASG reopens QMB lifestyle Centre after clearance

    LASG reopens QMB lifestyle Centre after clearance

    The Lagos State Government has reopened the QMB Restaurant and Clubhouse at the Lekki-based QMB Lifestyle Centre after the company was cleared of any wrongdoing.

    The reopening followed the presentation of approved building plan permits and the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), which confirmed that the company has proper title to the land and complied with relevant planning laws and regulations.

    QMB’s Head of Corporate and Legal Services, Mrs. Bukola Helen Olusolade, announced this in a statement, noting that the reopening came after a meeting with the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Urban Development.

    Olusolade said: “The QMB management met with officials of the Lagos State Government and tendered copies of the approved building permit issued by the Physical Planning Authority, as well as the C of Os signed by the Lagos State Governor. I can also confirm that all setback rules and safety provisions, including those required by Lagos State, the Federal Government, and international building codes, were duly observed. Our facilities pose no danger to staff or customers.”

    She added that the premises had since been unsealed and business activities had resumed.

    Expressing appreciation to customers and well-wishers, Olusolade said the company remains committed to upholding the rule of law and maintaining full regulatory compliance.

    It would be recalled that the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) had earlier sealed the QMB Restaurant and Clubhouse over alleged violation of building regulations.

  • Madam Omolade for burial Saturday

    Madam Omolade for burial Saturday

    The fam ily of the late Madam Felicia Omolade has announced plans for her burial, which is scheduled for Saturday.

    She was 100 years.

    A statement by the family said service of songs is slated for tomorrow at Ikare Akoko, Ondo State.

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    The statement said funeral service would hold the next day (Saturday) at Deeper Life Bible Church, Eseh Ikare Akoko.

    It said a private interment would follow after the service, while reception would take place at Lennon Jubilee High School.

    Music support is to be provided by popular gospel musician, Dr Yinka Ayefele.

  • Adeleke submits N705b proposed 2026 budget to Osun Assembly

    Adeleke submits N705b proposed 2026 budget to Osun Assembly

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke yesterday presented a budget proposal of N705.794 billion for 2026 before the House of Assembly for approval.

    The governor, accompanied by some members of the State Executive Council (Exco), christened the proposed appropriation “The Budget of Economic Transformation.”

    Its Capital Expenditure covers 55 per cent, and the Recurrent Expenditure is 45 per cent of the total.

    Adeleke said the 2025 budget recorded a remarkable milestone in its implementation, promising that the 2026 budget will build on the achievements of the last three years since he assumed office.

    Giving a breakdown of the  2026 budget proposal, the governor said: “The total revenue consists of recurrent revenue, where government share of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) is N221,680,000,000.00 and independent revenue is N199,573,229,320.00.

    “The other receipts are: N268,348,518,860.00.

    “The expenditure comprises recurrent expenditure of N317,414,353,350.00, which is 45 per cent of the total budget.

    “The recurrent expenditure is divided into personnel cost of N135,005,722,430.00. and the overhead cost of N182,408,630,920.00 consisting of salaries and allowances as well as pensions and gratuities. The capital expenditure has N388,379,695,320.00, which is 55 per cent of the total budget.

    “The 2026 budget proposal is prepared on the projection of the 2026 – 2028 Medium–Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) as required by the Osun State Fiscal Responsibility Law 2012.”

    Adeleke recalled that before he assumed office, the state’s infrastructure level was declining, but has improved since he assumed office.

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    The governor announced that over 300 kilometres of roads spread across the three senatorial districts have been constructed with flyovers to enhance smooth movement of vehicles and decongestion of bottleneck road junctions.

    House of Assembly Speaker Adewale Egbedun hailed the governor for his transparency, prudence, and accountability in the management of state’s finances and resources.

    He sought the support of the legislature for the executive in the running of the state.

    Mutfwang presents N914.8b proposal

    Also, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang yesterday presented an Appropriation Bill of N914.8 billion to the State House of Assembly for the 2026 fiscal year.

    The governor, who tagged the Appropriation Bill the “Budget of Consolidation and Sustainability 2.0,” said more emphasis would be placed on implementing people-oriented projects and programmes in the state.

    He explained that N341.4 billion of the budget, representing 37.3 per cent, would go into capital expenditure, while the recurrent expenditure would gulp N573.5 billion, representing 62.7 per cent.

    “Mr. Speaker, it is my singular honour and privilege to present to this House the 2026 Medium Term Expenditure Framework/Fiscal Strategy Paper (MTEF/FSP) alongside the 2026 proposed budget estimate for your consideration and approval.

    “The total budget shows an increase of N306.7 billion over the approved 2025 budget.

    “I have always stated that the desire and passion of the current administration under my leadership is to serve the people of Plateau sincerely and without any compromise.

    “Our aim as a government is to address the current difficulties faced by citizens and insecurity in collaboration with the security operatives assigned to maintain law and order in the state,” he said.

    Mutfwang promised that his administration would not lose track but strive towards building upon the state’s Strategic Development Framework (PSDF) of 2023–2027.

    House of Assembly Speaker Na’anlong Daniel hailed the governor for presenting the budget within a record time.

    Daniel promised to scrutinise and ensure speedy passage of the Appropriation Bill into law.

    Re

  • Ogun targets N500b IGR for 2026 budget

    Ogun targets N500b IGR for 2026 budget

    The Ogun State government has said it is targeting to generate N500 billion through Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to finance the 2026 budget.

    Governor Dapo Abiodun announced this during the treasury board meeting on the 2026–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2026 budget proposal at the Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

    The governor noted that as Nigeria’s industrial hub, Ogun State would leverage its strategic proximity to Lagos State — the nation’s largest economy — and its vast landmass of over 16,000 square kilometres to achieve the target.

    “This state has no business generating less than N500 billion a year, and that has to be our target,” Abiodun said.

    “By the time we are leaving in 2027, Ogun State’s revenue should rise to about N750 billion. That is what ambition looks and feels like.”

    He urged the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS) to contribute N250 billion of the total target.

    Abiodun said other key revenue-generating agencies, such as the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation (OPIC), the Bureau of Lands, the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Housing, would need to scale up their revenue-generating efforts.

    The governor stressed that every Ministry, Department and Agency (MDA) has a critical role to play in achieving the goal, describing them as “pieces of a jigsaw that must fit together to complete the bigger picture”.

    Read Also: Fed Govt closes skills gap with talent initiative

    He added: “Our comparative advantage was not fully harnessed by previous administrations. Our strength lies in providing what Lagos cannot offer. I expect every MDA to prepare an ambitious budget — aim for the stars, and if we miss, we’ll at least land on the moon.”

    Abiodun urged the state’s agencies to adopt creativity and innovation in their revenue drive, commending those that have achieved commendable results.

    On the deplorable condition of Kara, near Isheri,

    Abiodun reiterated his administration’s commitment to urban renewal.

    The governor promised that his administration would soon clear and develop Kara, near Isheri, linking the state to Lagos.

    “The new Ogun State cannot allow that place to continue to wear that look. You cannot be entering the new Ogun State and what you see first is an eyesore. There is no better time to act than now. We can’t leave it as an albatross for the next administration,” he added.

  • Oyebanji hails Tinubu for approving Itawure-Aramoko-Ado, Aramoko-Ijero-Ifaki roads construction

    Oyebanji hails Tinubu for approving Itawure-Aramoko-Ado, Aramoko-Ijero-Ifaki roads construction

    Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for approving the inclusion of the Itawure–Aramoko–Ado Ekiti and Aramoko–Ijero–Ifaki Ekiti road projects in the 2026 Federal Government budget.

    The approval was conveyed in a letter from the Office of the President to the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, with a copy sent to Governor Oyebanji.

    The development followed the recent visit of Governor Oyebanji and the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, to President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Sunday, November 9, 2025, where the poor state of federal roads in Ekiti was a major topic of discussion.

    Reacting to the development, Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, described the approval as a major relief for commuters plying the routes.

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    The governor stated that the construction of the two roads would enhance connectivity, stimulate trade, and open up the state to greater economic opportunities.

    “This gesture reflects President Tinubu’s deep commitment to equitable infrastructure development and his resolve to ensure that no part of the country is left behind,” the Governor said.

    The governor noted that despite public concern and misinformation over the state of some federal roads, the Tinubu-led administration had already awarded contracts for the rehabilitation of three major roads in Ekiti, with contractors mobilised to the site.

    He also recalled that his administration had reconstructed the Ado–Iworoko–Ifaki road and executed numerous inter-city and intra-city road projects within the past three years, underscoring the state government’s determination to improve infrastructure.

    He emphasised that the newly approved roads would ease transportation challenges, reduce travel time, and facilitate the movement of goods and services across Ekiti and neighbouring states in line with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the state’s Shared Prosperity Vision.

    While thanking the President on behalf of the people of Ekiti State, Oyebanji lauded his “strategic and compassionate leadership,” saying the President’s support continues to reflect in various development projects across the state.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare and well-being of citizens and assured that Ekiti would continue to partner with the Federal Government, development agencies, and the private sector to drive sustainable growth and infrastructure renewal.