The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Ogun 2027: Group canvasses support for Adeola’s guber ambition

    Ogun 2027: Group canvasses support for Adeola’s guber ambition

    In a bid to further deepen the propagation of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola’s aspiration for the Ogun governorship seat in 2027, a socio‑political group, Ogun Visionaries, on Thursday organized a Town Hall Meeting for the people of Ogun West.

    The Ogun West edition, with the theme, ‘Yayi 2027: Making a Case for Ogun State Unity and Prosperity,’ was held at Sango‑Ota in Ado‑Odo Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    Earlier, the Director‑General of Ogun Visionaries, Odunleye Odunjo, stated that the socio‑political group is set to hold interactive sessions with Ogun‑state indigenes via statewide town‑hall meetings.

    “We will listen to people across the state—asking them what kind of government they would like to have in 2027 and how their next leader should govern their affairs. We will x‑ray individuals and support the best among us to emerge as our elected public servants. With the resources extractable from our state, we must be conscious of those aspiring to lead us.” He noted that town‑hall meetings are not new to the state’s political space, emphasizing that the meetings are to pinpoint and scrutinize the existing challenges, opportunities and ways to fix them all for the benefit of the people of Ogun State.

    Read Also: Ogun’s messy infrastructure under Dapo Abiodun

    Speaking at the well‑attended event,  the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Isiaq Kunle Salako, who also chaired the event, represented by Hon. Sheriff Abiodun described the gathering as not just another political event, but a statement of solidarity and a reaffirmation of the people’s collective resolve and demonstration of their commitment to the unity and progress of Ogun State.

  • Lagos pushes agri-tech, youth innovation to strengthen farmers’ prosperity

    Lagos pushes agri-tech, youth innovation to strengthen farmers’ prosperity

    In a renewed push to transform agriculture into a hub of innovation and employment, the Lagos State Government is championing youth-driven agri-tech solutions designed to tackle pressing challenges faced by farmers.

    The initiative aims to merge creativity, technology, and enterprise, turning agriculture into a viable career path for young innovators while improving incomes for rural producers.

    Read Also: FG names Soba best performing LGA in agriculture

     Speaking during a media interview at the Lagos Agrithon Grand Finale, Lagos Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms Abisola Olusanya, said the state was  working with young innovators to promote modern agriculture and deliver tangible benefits to farmers.

    She emphasised the government’s focus on fostering innovations that can address various challenges faced by farming and agri-food businesses, ultimately leading to enhanced production capacity and efficiency.

  • Rumpus as Owo monarch bans LG chairman

    Rumpus as Owo monarch bans LG chairman

    • Suspended chair keeps mum

    A fresh controversy has erupted in Owo, Ondo State, following the decision of the Olowo-in-Council to declare the suspended Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Tope Omolayo, persona non grata within the ancient community.

    The decision came after Hon. Omolayo –  suspended a few weeks ago by the Owo Legislative Council over alleged gross misconduct – was accused of making disparaging remarks against the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas, His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, in a viral leaked video.

    Although the embattled chairman had publicly apologised to the monarch, admitting that his utterances were “thoughtless” and disrespectful, the Olowo-in-Council maintained that his presence as chairman was no longer acceptable to the people and traditional leadership of Owo.

    Speaking on behalf of the council, on Saturday, Ogwadogbon of Owo, High Chief Ademola Obanonyen, described Omolayo’s comments as “utter sacrilege and crass contempt” against the revered throne.

    He said the Council, acting to protect the dignity of the monarchy, resolved that Omolayo be regarded as persona non grata in Owo, insisting that his continued stay as chairman “is no longer acceptable.”

    Obanonyen noted that all Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) within Owo Kingdom had disowned Omolayo’s conduct, describing his remarks as “unfortunate and regrettable ” while calling on the Ondo State Government to take note and act “in the interest of peace.”

    Read Also: Court bars Lagos CP from declaring Sowore wanted

    He said, “After a thorough and sober deliberation, the Olowo-in-Council, speaking with one voice and acting in defence of the dignity of the Owo throne, hereby declares that the individual in question, by his reckless utterances and disrespectful conduct, has declared himself persona non grata within Owo Kingdom.”

    He added that the Council viewed the chairman’s behaviour as “a direct provocation and an assault on the throne,” stressing that “any attempt to ridicule the Olowo is an insult to the entire Owo Kingdom, our ancestors, and our collective heritage.”

    “That his continued presence as Chairman of the Owo Local Government Area Council is no longer acceptable to the people and traditional leadership of Owo.

    “That his actions have eroded the trust and confidence traditionally extended to holders of public office within the Owo community.

    “That the Olowo-in-Council calls on the Ondo State Government and relevant authorities to take due cognizance of this development and take appropriate administrative steps in the interest of peace and mutual respect.”

    “The Olowo of Owo Kingdom is not only the custodian of our ancient traditions but also a symbol of unity, peace, and progress. Any attempt to ridicule the person or sacred institution he represents is an insult to the entire Owo Kingdom, our ancestors, and our collective heritage.”

    The Council further appealed to all indigenes of Owo to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that the dignity of the throne would be preserved through discipline and moral clarity, not confrontation.

    It added that traditional rulers are custodians of culture and peace, not objects of ridicule, warning that “Owo Kingdom will never tolerate insolence against its throne – a throne that has stood for centuries as a beacon of civilization, wisdom, and dignity.”

    When contacted by our reporter over his reaction to the development, Hon. Omolayo immediately declined comments.

  • SEC approves firm’s N235b public offer

    SEC approves firm’s N235b public offer

    The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has approved Ellah Lakes Plc’s plan to launch a N235 billion public offer, marking a major milestone in the company’s ongoing expansion and growth drive.

    Announcing the approval at a press conference in Lagos, the company’s Managing Director, Chuka Mordi, described the development as a vote of confidence in Ellah Lakes’ vision to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector through sustainable and integrated farming initiatives.

    Mordi explained that the capital raise would be used to strengthen the company’s balance sheet, expand its agribusiness operations, and enhance value creation for shareholders. “This N235 billion capital raise is a definitive statement of intent. It is our commitment to deliver economies of scale, market resilience, and long-term value creation,” he said.

    Read Also: Sani decorates Commander of Kaduna’s security outfit ‘Operation Fushin Kada’

    Ellah Lakes, which is listed on the Nigerian Exchange, is Nigeria’s pioneer integrated agro-industrial company with operations across oil palm, cassava, and other value chain crops. The company boasts over thirty thousand hectares of land assets across Enugu, Edo, Ekiti, and Ondo States, positioning it advantageously within the country’s agricultural landscape.

    A key highlight of the company’s strategy is the commissioning of its six-ton-per-hour Crude Palm Oil (CPO) mill, designed to support vertical integration and reduce exposure to external supply chain disruptions. Ellah Lakes has also diversified its revenue base through cassava cultivation and piggery operations, combining short-, medium-, and long-term income streams.

  • How Nigeria can tackle crude oil theft- Ned Nwoko

    How Nigeria can tackle crude oil theft- Ned Nwoko

    Chairman of the Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Crude Oil Theft and Sabotage, Senator Ned Nwoko raised concerns about the menace of crude oil in the country and suggested how the challenge can be addressed.

    Nwoko disclosed this while presenting the committee’s interim report before the Senate.

    He said: “Our investigation has so far uncovered massive revenue losses amounting to over $300 billion in unaccounted crude oil proceeds over the years. This represents one of the most troubling cases of economic sabotage our nation has ever faced.”

    The committee, he said, has  “made far-reaching recommendations to end this long-standing menace. These include: The strict enforcement of international crude oil measurement standards at all production and export points.

    Read Also: Ned Nwoko denies taking another wife amid viral photo

    “Mandating the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) to deploy modern, tamper-proof measuring technology or returning this function to the Department of Weights and Measures under the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.

    “The deployment of advanced surveillance systems, including drones, to assist security agencies in combating oil theft. The creation of a Special Court for Crude Oil Theft to ensure swift prosecution of offenders and their collaborators.

    “Full implementation of the Host Communities Development Trust Fund under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to empower local communities and reduce sabotage.

    “Ceding abandoned oil wells to the NUPRC for allocation to modular refineries to support local production and job creation.

     “The committee also seeks an expanded mandate to track, trace, and recover stolen crude oil proceeds, both locally and internationally. Forensic reviews show over $22 billion, $81 billion, and $200 billion remain unaccounted for across different audit periods.

    “This is a national call to action. Nigeria cannot afford to continue losing trillions to corruption, inefficiency, and criminal networks. I remain committed, alongside my colleagues, to ensuring accountability, recovery, and reform within the oil and gas sector.”

  • Institute explains maiden summit on laboratory regulation

    Institute explains maiden summit on laboratory regulation

    The Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN) has announced plans to host its Maiden National Summit on Strengthening Analytical Laboratory Regulatory Framework and Compliance.

    The summit is aimed at harmonising Nigeria’s fragmented laboratory system to enhance public health, industrial integrity, and national competitiveness.

    The summit, scheduled for November 10 to 11, will hold at Yard 158 Event Arena, Oregun, Ikeja.

    The 32nd Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Workshop will follow from November 12 to 13 at Responsible Leaders Hotel (formerly Ostra Hotel), Ikeja, Lagos.

    Speaking at a pre-summit news conference yesterday at the IPAN Secretariat in Yaba, Lagos, the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of IPAN, Mr. Allyu Abdullahi Angara, said the summit marks a national turning point in the effort to build a unified and credible analytical laboratory system that supports evidence-based policy, consumer safety, and economic growth.

    Read Also: Ondo gets new laboratory for Lassa fever testing

    “This is not just another technical meeting. It is a national conversation, a platform for government, industry, academia, and development partners to rethink and realign the systems that govern how laboratory analyses impact the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.”Angara said.

    He noted that analytical laboratories are “the quiet guardians of public safety,” testing everything from food, drugs, water, cosmetics, and building materials to the air Nigerians breathe.

    Yet, he lamented that these laboratories have operated for years within a “fragmented regulatory environment” with overlapping mandates, inconsistent standards, and weak compliance monitoring.

  • Adelabu uplifts Oyo APC youths, women, leaders with N100 million

    Adelabu uplifts Oyo APC youths, women, leaders with N100 million

    All Progressive Congress (APC) youths, women, and leaders across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State on Saturday benefitted from N100 million economic relief fund by the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, through his Bayo Adelabu Foundation (BAF).

    Adelabu, a 2027 governorship aspirant under All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State assured members of the party and residents of the state that he is ready to serve the state.

    Adelabu said more empowerment will come to the party and residents of the state when the party return to power in 2027.

    The Minister described PDP as a tenant in Agodi Government House, noting that APC would take it’s rightful position in the state come 2027.

    He said: “Oyo belongs to the progressives, we are the landlords, we are going back to Agodi Government House in 2027.”

    He however urged members to unite at the ward, local government and state levels so that the party can win the 2027 governorship election in the state.

    Read Also: Adelabu offers financial relief to victims of Ibadan Circular road project

    The guest lecturer at the event, Dr. Stephen Lafenwa from Department of Political Science of the University of Ibadan (UI), said any political party that invest in youths, women and leaders will always come out victorious.

    According to him, no party can win public trust without empowering its youths, women and leaders, commending APC in the state for priortising welfare of its members across the state.

    He urged beneficiaries of the empowerment to use it judiciously towards alleviating their sufferings.

    Oyo APC chairman, who was represented by the party Secretary, Alhaji Tajudeen Olanite said the party is proud of Adelabu because the entire state now know that APC has come back to it’s feet’s through the Minister.

  • Tinubu’s aide celebrates Ekiti First Lady on birthday

    Tinubu’s aide celebrates Ekiti First Lady on birthday

    Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Ibrahim Olarewaju, has congratulated Ekiiti First Lady  Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, on the occasion of her birthday, describing her as a symbol of grace, intellect, and compassion.

    In a statement, Hon. Olarewaju praised Dr. Oyebanji for her selfless service, exemplary leadership, and unwavering support to her husband, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, in driving the development of Ekiti State.

    He described the Ekiti First Lady as “a pillar of strength to her husband” who combines brilliance with rare humility and compassion to uplift lives, especially among the most vulnerable.

    Highlighting her contributions to education, Olarewaju commended Dr. Oyebanji’s remarkable gesture of lecturing pro bono in three tertiary institutions across the state.

    “This act of selfless service reflects her deep belief in human capital development and her passion for nurturing the next generation through knowledge sharing and mentorship. She embodies a rare blend of intellectual brilliance and genuine empathy,” he said.

    He also applauded the First Lady’s humanitarian initiative tagged Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Initiative which he described as a beacon of hope for many Ekiti families.

    According to him, the programme has empowered numerous widows, aged citizens, and orphans through financial assistance, vocational support, and community interventions.

    Olarewaju further lauded her advocacy for women’s rights and her unflinching commitment to enforcing Gender-Based Violence laws in the state, saying her bold stance on protecting women and ensuring justice for victims of abuse speaks to her courage and compassion. 

    He equally commended her passion for child welfare, citing her Back to School initiative, which has distributed school bags, stationery, and instructional materials to over 10,000 pupils across Ekiti.

    He noted that Dr. Oyebanji’s consistent focus on  girl-child continues to inspire confidence and equal  opportunity in education, describing her as “a shining example of purposeful leadership and impactful service.”

    “We celebrate not just another birthday, but another year of profound impact, grace, and devotion to humanity. May God bless Her Excellency Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji with long life, sound health, and renewed strength to continue her remarkable service to the people of Ekiti and beyond,” he prayed.

  • Tinubu poised to end terrorism, tackle sponsors – Lagos lawmaker

    Tinubu poised to end terrorism, tackle sponsors – Lagos lawmaker

    With the level of growth Nigeria has experienced in recent times, the Bola Tinubu government deserves commendations, support and international collaboration, a Lagos lawmaker has said.

    Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji, representative of Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I at the Lagos State House of Assembly, said this in a statement on Friday urging President Donald Trump, the American President, to reconsider his stand on the happenings in Nigeria.

    The lawmaker said President Tinubu understands the challenges and as a result, he has never stopped strengthening the nation’s security architecture as seen in the recent change of guard in the Nigerian Armed Forces.

    “President Bola Tinubu, as a father, is not happy that bandits, terrorists or whatever name-tag they have got, have tried to downplay the gains of the administration just as they did with previous administrations.

    “This is one reason the President ordered the recently appointed service chiefs in Nigeria to put a final end to insecurity in the country. The current administration will never pamper terrorists or their sponsors,” he said. 

    Adewale, a ranking lawmaker, said in the last two years, countries and various global organisations have acknowledged the growing economic successes recorded by the current administration.

    “The Tinubu administration continues to open more economic pathways for progress. Different data have shown inflation dropping for the first time in years. More than before, the administration has attracted multi-billion dollar investments while working to reinvigorate moribund industries and maintain its place as the giant of Africa.

    Economic indices continue to prove that the government is on the right track and this has reflected in the country’s currency continuously gaining weight.

    “For the first time, the sub-national governments are comfortable because they now have a level of economic power.

    “Thus, what Nigeria deserves at this time is global collaboration from the US and other nations in the interest of the citizens. Our youth and citizens must continue to be patient and trust in the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of the government.

    “We must encourage Nigeria’s new service chiefs to live up to expectations and do all that is necessary to ensure they put a final stop to insurgents in the country. Let’s continue to support the government’s giant strides knowing that the results would best fit our yearnings,” he said.

  • Akè festival cultural, not idolatry- Oba Aladesuru

    Akè festival cultural, not idolatry- Oba Aladesuru

    The Onigede of Igede-Ekiti, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II, has dismissed as unfounded the claims that the annual Àkè Festival has any link with idolatry, describing it instead as a purely cultural celebration of the town’s rich history and heritage.

    Addressing journalists in his palace, as part of activities marking the weeklong Òdùn Àkè 2025, Oba Aladesuru said the festival was instituted to honour the founding fathers and heroes of the ancient Igede kingdom.

    According to the monarch, the original settlers who founded the town were sixteen brothers who lived and governed from the Ake Hills. 

    He explained that a disagreement over leadership among the brothers led each of them to settle around various sacred locations such as streams, trees, and groves, which later became significant cultural symbols in the town’s history.

    He narrated that the youngest of the brothers, who was away hunting during the dispute, was later made the leader by the townspeople who witnessed the events, marking a turning point in the community’s evolution.

    “Àkè Festival is a celebration of our forefathers, our roots, and the origin of Igede.It is a taboo here to say ‘Ogede’. We say ‘Òfò’ because ‘Ogede’ was the sacred word used during the brothers’ disagreement, and that word eventually became ‘Ìgèdè,’ the name of our town today.

    “So, anyone saying Àkè Festival is linked to idol worship is simply uninformed. The festival is open to everyone and reflects our unity, history, and identity as a people,” he added.

    The monarch outlined series of activities slated for the festival,  including cultural displays and indoor games on November 4, a quiz competition and football match on November 5 and  commissioning of community projects and economic summit on Thursday November 6.

    Friday’s programme will feature a town-wide sanitation exercise, the annual general meeting of the community, and a Juma’at service at the Igede Central Mosque. 

    On Saturday, November 8, there will be a grand cultural parade, fashion exhibition, and fundraising ceremony, while the celebration will climax on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at the Christ Apostolic Church, Igede-Ekiti.

    As part of the festival, a free medical outreach led by Dr. Afolabi from the Federal Medical Centre, Ido-Ekiti, attended to hundreds of residents.

    Beneficiaries received free consultations, laboratory tests, and medications, while over 500 eyeglasses were distributed to elderly men and women in the community.