The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Nigerians in diaspora back Tinubu’s re-election

    Nigerians in diaspora back Tinubu’s re-election

    Nigerians in the diaspora under the aegis of Tinubu Ambo Support Group (TASG) have declared their support for re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

    TASG Diaspora Director, Kelvin Muyiwa, spoke at a solidarity meeting in England, where members lauded Tinubu’s efforts in stabilising the economy and restoring public confidence in governance.

    Muyiwa praised the President’s “visionary leadership,” noting that despite initial challenges, the administration has remained focused on repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth through reforms in infrastructure, power, and industrial development.

    “We have observed the President’s steps in reviving critical sectors of the economy. His Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding results, and we believe he deserves another term to consolidate on the gains,” he said.

    The group called on Nigerians at home to participate in the voter registration by obtaining their Permanent Voter Cards, stressing that participation in the electoral process is vital to sustaining democracy and national development.

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    “We urge every Nigerian, especially youths, to register for their PVCs. The power to decide the future of our country lies in our hands,” he added.

    The congress of the group also expressed its support for Akinwunmi Ambode, former Lagos State governor, urging him to contest in 2027.

    Muyiwa noted that Ambode’s first tenure remains “a benchmark in good governance, urban renewal, and people-oriented leadership,” adding that his return would further accelerate the development of the state.

    “Ambode’s leadership transformed Lagos into a model city for other states to emulate. Bringing him back will consolidate those gains,” he said.

    Tinubu Ambo Support Group reaffirmed its commitment to mobilising support among Nigerians in the diaspora and at home to ensure the electoral success of Tinubu and Ambode in the 2027 polls.

  • Celebrated chef Baci is Scanfrost’s brand ambassador

    Celebrated chef Baci is Scanfrost’s brand ambassador

    Scanfrost, home and kitchen appliances outfit, has named Hilda Baci, Guinness World Record–breaking chef and culinary entrepreneur, as brand ambassador.

    Hilda’s story of passion, excellence, and perseverance aligns with Scanfrost’s values of reliability, innovation, and quality. From her record-breaking cookathon to her impact in the culinary and lifestyle space, Hilda represents the strength and creativity of the Nigerian.

    Ajit Nair, group managing director of C.G.C.L, said:  “We are delighted to welcome Hilda Baci to Scanfrost family. Her authenticity, energy, and entrepreneurial drive reflect the values that have guided Scanfrost for over four decades. We look forward to inspiring Nigerians to create memorable experiences at home and beyond.”

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    Ashok Dimri, Business Head, added: “Hilda’s influence goes beyond the kitchen; she embodies resilience, creativity, and ambition. These are values we build into every Scanfrost product. We believe this partnership will deepen our connection with consumers who see home appliances as key partners in their lives.”

    Baci said: “Scanfrost has been part of our homes, and partnering them feels like coming full circle. It’s a brand that represents hard work, trust, and everything I stand for.”

    Alfred Jarikre, Marketing manager at Scanfrost Nigeria, noted: “Hilda brings a fresh, youthful, and dynamic energy to the brand. This is not just about endorsement but about showing how Nigerians can be more with the brand.”

    Hilda will feature in Scanfrost’s campaigns, digital content, and lifestyle projects, focusing on food, family, and home innovation.

  • Foundation urges girls to embrace financial discipline, STEM education

    Foundation urges girls to embrace financial discipline, STEM education

    As part of activities marking the International Day of the Girl Child, the Osaide for Girls in Science and Engineering Foundation has called on young girls to imbibe the culture of financial discipline and explore opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

    The Foundation made this call during a sensitisation programme held at Baptist Junior High School, Obanikoro, Lagos, where students were encouraged to adopt a saving culture and develop interest in science and engineering fields.

    Founder of the Foundation, Engr. (Dr.) Patricia Opene-Odili, stressed the importance of financial literacy as a vital life skill for long-term stability and success. Sharing her personal experience, she said one of the greatest lessons she learnt from her mother was the art of financial management, which sustained her throughout her 33 years of service.

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    “By saving consistently, I was able to retire comfortably. Teaching children to save and understand the value of money is therefore very important,” she said.

    Opene-Odili observed that many young people tend to spend money immediately without considering the benefits of saving or investing.

    “Children must understand the value of money. If you see ₦100 and quickly spend it on sweets or chewing gum, that money is gone. But if you save or invest it, it grows and works for you. That’s the mindset we want our girls to develop,” she said.

    She further explained that beyond promoting financial discipline, the Foundation remains committed to mentoring and supporting young girls to pursue higher education in STEM-related fields through scholarships and guidance programmes.

    “Our mission is to support and mentor young girls, providing scholarships that enable them to study science and engineering at the university level,” she said.

    While lamenting the low representation of women in engineering, she expressed optimism that more girls are showing interest and breaking barriers in the field.

    Head of Commercial, MI Finance Limited, Adebowale Adegbite, stated the importance of financial literacy for all, regardless of age or gender.

    He urged the students to start saving little amounts daily, noting that even ₦100 could be the foundation of future investments.

  • Businessman restates commitment to philanthropy

    Businessman restates commitment to philanthropy

    Businessman and philanthropist, Mr. Jamiu Ogundele, has restated that his humanitarian efforts in Yewaland, Ogun State, are driven by passion and not political ambition.

    Ogundele, through his non-profit initiative, Engineer Ogundele Jamiu Foundation, has embarked on community projects, including medical outreach, classroom renovation and road rehabilitation in underserved areas.

    Speaking on his motive, he said his goal was to improve lives and give back to society.

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    “People often assume that when you’re giving, you must be preparing for office,” he said. “But that’s not the case for me. Philanthropy is something I’m passionate about. It comes from my heart, not from a strategy.”

    He said    his experience in business exposed him to the needs of people at the grassroots, inspiring him to act.

    “What drives me is the joy of seeing lives transformed,” he added. “When you visit communities where people struggle with basic needs, you realise how much impact small acts of kindness can create.”

  • Security reform: Arewa Think Tank expresses confidence in Ribadu

    Security reform: Arewa Think Tank expresses confidence in Ribadu

    • North’s group frowns at calls to probe NSA

    A prominent Northern advocacy group, Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has expressed confidence in the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), led by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to tackle the security challenges facing the country.

    ATT said he has been doing a commendable job in tackling the nation’s security challenges and should be allowed to continue without distraction.

    In a statement, the group’s Convener, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, stated that Ribadu’s strategic efforts have been yielding tangible results in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other security threats across the country.

    “The NSA, under Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has been working tirelessly to address the country’s security challenges. We believe that his efforts are producing positive outcomes, and he deserves our collective support to sustain this momentum,” Yakubu said.

    His remarks followed a call by the Coalition of Northeast Youth Group Leaders, which recently issued a seven-day ultimatum to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to probe the NSA’s activities, threatening peaceful protests if the government failed to act.

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    Describing the coalition’s demand as “misguided and unnecessary,” Yakubu maintained that Ribadu’s performance has been consistent with the administration’s renewed focus on national security and stability.

    “We urge the government to leave the NSA alone and allow him to continue his good work. Probing him now will only distract from the progress being made. The NSA is doing a good job and deserves support, not suspicion,” he said.

    Yakubu also hailed President Tinubu for what he called a “bold and historic decision” to relieve the former Service Chiefs of their duties.

    He said the move demonstrated the President’s firm political will to reform the military and strengthen national defence institutions.

  • Saraki wins Africa Democracy awards in Kenya

    Saraki wins Africa Democracy awards in Kenya

    • Ex-Senate President dedicates honour to Odinga

    Former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki has been conferred with the Nana Akufo-Addo Africa Democracy Award.

    The award was given to him in recognition of his “long-standing record as a champion of democracy and good governance in Africa”.

    It was presented in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, at a ceremony organised by the African Democratic Union (ADU) and attended by leaders of Centre-Right political parties across the continent, policy makers, business leaders, academics, parliamentarians, and international development partners to exchange ideas on how to address Africa’s most pressing challenges.

    A former Ghanaian President Akufo-Addo, after whom the award was named, presented it to Saraki.

    He said the award represented a challenge for the recipient to continue his steadfastness in improving the democratic process on the continent and ensuring it leads to improved standard of living for the people.

    “I am deeply humbled by the honour you have done me, in naming the Africa Democracy Award after me. I accept this not as a personal accolade but as a reminder of my duty to uphold the constitutional order, defend free expression, ensure the impartiality of our courts, and safeguard the ballot as the sole source of legitimate political authority.

    “To the award recipients, who will be recognised today, know this: the Akufo-Addo Africa Democracy Award is only a signpost. The road is the daily work of building institutions that outlast leaders. Wear the award lightly – your real validation is the verdict of citizens. Choose courage over convenience, refuse shortcuts that corrode institutions. Use democracy to deliver schools that teach, clinics that heal, roads that connect, jobs that dignify, because when services fail, democracy’s credibility suffers.

    “Build successors, not echo chambers, because renewal is a democratic virtue. Guard truth in this information age, because disinformation fractures nations.

    “I congratulate you and wish you well in your endeavours to build the best Africa we can get. In closing, remember how our earlier DUA conversations began: with a call to cooperate across borders and parties to advance democracy and enterprise. That call still stands. Let us leave Nairobi with fewer promises and more plans, fewer declarations and more deals, fewer excuses and more execution”, he stated.

    In his acceptance speech, Saraki expressed appreciation to the ADU, led by Ms. Louisa Atta-Agyemang, for considering him for the awards among many other Africans who featured on the selection list.

    He dedicated the award to Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, who passed away some days before the award on October 15.

    The former Nigerian Senate President described Odinga as an African patriot, recalling how, during his travails under the Muhammadu Buhari administration, the Kenyan leader mediated and sought to achieve reconciliation between him and the former President.

    At the ADU forum, Saraki delivered the keynote address with the theme: “Navigating Africa’s Strategic Position in a Multipolar World: Towards Equitable and Mutually Beneficial Partnerships.”

    The ex-Senate President discussed how Africans could dismantle the pillars of dependency and improve the standard of living of their people.

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    Many of the parliamentarians at the award presentation congratulated Saraki on the award.

    They described the honour as a befitting recognition for his boldness, courage, and commitment, which he demonstrated by speaking truth to power.

    Commenting on the award to Saraki, the national chairman of the NGC Party in Serra Leone, Jesmed F. Suma, said: “Dr. Saraki’s insightful remarks on the need for a paradigm shift in governance and economic systems across the continent deeply resonated with me. They mirror the core principles that drive my vision and work toward building sustainable pathways to economic growth and prosperity.”

    Saraki’s dedication of the award to Odinga and his well-articulated speech were well received by the Kenyan media and across East Africa.

    Other awardees from across Africa include Alonso Marceta Dhlakama, Rose Waruhiu, the late Kenyan President Arap Moi, whose plaque was received by his son, Gideon Moi; Lutero Chimbirombiro Simango, Dr. Kizza Besigye Kifeefe, and Tundu Antiphas Mughwai Lissu.

  • CISLAC seeks removal of fossil fuel tax incentives

    CISLAC seeks removal of fossil fuel tax incentives

    For Nigeria to attract investment in the renewable energy sector to boost socioeconomic development and aid the transition to renewable energy, the country must remove all tax credits on fossil fuels.

    This was the position of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiatives (NEITI) and other stakeholders at the launch of a report, titled: “Assessing the Role of Tax Incentives in Nigeria’s Fossil Fuel Industry: Implications for Energy Transition, Policy Direction and the Path to a Sustainable Future,” in Abuja, yesterday.

    Organised by CISLAC, the forum decried the abuse of the tax incentives in the fossil fuel industry, noting how benefitting firms failed to do impactful developmental projects despite the billions they saved from tax holidays.

    In his welcome address, Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsajani, commended Nigeria for showing commitment to reversing the devastating impacts of climate change by establishing institutions such as the Energy Transition Office and adopting the Energy Transition Plan.

    He argued that continued incentives for fossil fuel investments contradict the country’s net-zero emission target, noting that expanding investments in oil while providing tax reliefs to fossil operators undermined efforts toward building a sustainable green economy.

    He stressed that government fiscal regimes were powerful tools that can either accelerate or hinder the nation’s energy transition, adding that maintaining incentives for fossil fuel production entrenches dependence on carbon-based energy sources, putting Nigeria’s 2060 net-zero emission goal at risk. He urged policymakers to realign fiscal policies to discourage fossil fuel expansion and promote clean, renewable energy sources.

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    The CISLAC boss explained that the report, developed through extensive desk reviews of laws, fiscal instruments, and international policy literature, critically examines how tax incentives sustain the fossil fuel sector and distort energy transition objectives. He said the study situates Nigeria’s approach within the global context, where many countries are phasing out fossil fuel subsidies in favor of renewable energy investments.

    Rafsanjani emphasized that the report recommended a recalibration of Nigeria’s fiscal policies to support a just and inclusive energy transition.

    The proposed reforms include phasing out fossil fuel tax incentives, improving tax expenditure reporting and accountability, and mobilizing domestic resources to fund renewable energy projects. It also calls for international collaboration in securing climate finance and technical support for economies reliant on fossil fuels.

    As part of its advocacy, the CISLAC boss urged greater transparency in tax incentive administration, emphasizing that incentives should align with Nigeria’s development and climate goals. Rafsanjani said fiscal reforms must focus on creating an enabling environment for renewable energy investments while ensuring that energy access remains inclusive and equitable for all Nigerians.

    He hailed the Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) and the Energy Transition Funds for supporting the research and advocacy initiative, as well as Professor Sabiu Bariki Sani of the University of Abuja for leading the study. Rafsanjani expressed hope that the report would serve as a valuable policy reference for government and stakeholders in designing fiscal regimes that promote decarbonization, energy inclusion, and sustainable national development.

    In his goodwill message, Executive Secretary, Nigeria Extractive Industries  Transparency Initiatives (NEITI)  Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, commended CISLAC for its research on the role of tax incentives in Nigeria’s fossil fuel industry, describing it as a timely contribution to the national debate on energy transition and fiscal reform.

    He highlighted that Nigeria faces a dual challenge of declining hydrocarbon revenues and inadequate investment in renewable energy, stressing the need for a fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive transition.

    Dr. Orji noted that many existing tax incentives in the fossil fuel sector no longer serve national priorities and should be reviewed or removed to support Nigeria’s push for a diversified, low-carbon economy.

    “The final draft report of this study which we are currently reviewing as we speak has already alerted the nation that without a well-managed fiscal transition, Nigeria risks facing a dual challenge- declining hydrocarbon revenues and insufficient investment in cleaner energy alternatives.

    “The preliminary findings so far point to the possible reality that the path to a low-carbon future must be fiscally smart, socially just, and economically inclusive,” said Orji.

    He outlined transparency, fiscal coherence, and just transition as three key policy directions the government should look into.

    “The real costs of tax incentives and subsidies must be publicly disclosed and justified. Reforms under the new Tax and Revenue Reforms Act should ensure incentives deliver measurable public benefits, and communities and workers reliant on extractives must be supported with alternatives and retraining,” he said.

    Orji reaffirmed NEITI’s commitment to working with CISLAC and other stakeholders to promote fiscal transparency, climate accountability, and data-driven oversight in achieving a fair and sustainable energy transition.

  • Abiodun: all parts of Ogun will feel my administration’s presence

    Abiodun: all parts of Ogun will feel my administration’s presence

    • Work ongoing on four major highways in Ifo-Sango Ota axis
    • Ota-Lafenwa-Ayetoro Road captured in proposed Budget 2026

    Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has reassured residents that no part of the state will be left undeveloped.

    He promised that ongoing infrastructure upgrade will spread to all communities across the three Senatorial districts.

    The government, according to a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, is simultaneously working on four major highways in the Ifo, Sango Ota and Idiroko axis of the state.

    He dismissed as mischief the claim in certain quarters that the government had left some bad portions on other roads unattended to, saying that the administration has plans to spread development as dividends of democracy to all parts, including the roads in Lafenwa-Itele Ayetoro areas of the state.

    The special adviser noted that the 140-kilometer Abeokuta-Lagos Expressway is being fixed by the state government despited being a federal road.

    He added that the, Sango- Ido Iroko, also a Federal Government road,is under construction by the state government.

    He added that the government is attending to the Sango-Idiroko Highway, while it had completed about 22 kilometres between Ijoko, Agbado and Alagbole road

    “The area being mostly complained about -the Ota-Itele-Lafenwa stretch, which is about 24 kilometres – had been incorporated into the 2026 budget long before social media hoopla” Akinmade clarified in the statement

    The decision, he said, was a confirmation of Governor Abiodun’s determination to spread even development to all books and crannies of the state as fast as he is allowed to do by time and resources.

    Akinmade further said the underlisted roads have been completed in Ifo- Ado Odo-Ota axis of the State.

    1. Ikorita Meta, Adenrele/Olose Titus Vespa Road (3.1km)

    2. Old Bank Road-Orita Meta – Coker Junction, Olumo Spur Road (1km).

    3. Olusegun Osoba, Toyin, Agbado Road(2.4km).

    4. Reconstruction of Sango, Ota- Oke Aro, Ojodu Abiodun Road, Lagos end (Yakoyo to Mr. Biggs) Phase 6(1.6km).

    5. Reconstruction of Sango Ota, Oke Aro, Ojodu Abiodun Road (Sango Roundabout to Ijoko bridge) phase 1, (8.5km)

    6. Akute, Denro, Ishasi Road (4.8km).

    7. Alhaji Kosoko Street, Ojodu Abiodun (Sectional Rehabilitation,Resurfacing (1km)

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    8. Ajulo-Akute Road (3km).

    9. Hercules-Giwa Road (1.3km).

    10. Alagbole-Ajulo Road (1.7km).

    11. Akute bridge- Oke Aro bridge)9.2km).

    12. Atan – Lusada- Marogbo Toll Road (19.2km).

    13. Lanfenwa – Osi, Ikola Road (7km).

    14. Reconstruction of Bible College, Ota, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government (3.89km).

    He said: “While recognizing the rights of the good people of Ogun State to continue to demand for the dividends of democracy, the government warned the public to be wary of the antics of opposition politicians and their quest to call a dog a bad name in other to hang it.

    “In its determination to run a transparent and people-driven government, the Dapo Abiodun led administration will never fail to respond to public scrutiny. However, we are not unaware of the ongoing move by political detractors to tarnish the image of the government by whipping up unnecessary incitements.

    “The road is in question, like many others in Sango-Ota axis, had been in that deplorable state for many years before the coming of Governor Abiodun. They are part of the huge infrastructure deficit inherited by this administration in 2019.

    “Aside from the now trending Ota-Itele-Lafenwa road, other very important roads, including Sango-Ijoko-Agbado-Oke Aro-Lambe-Akute road; Sango Ota-Papalanto-Abeokuta road and Sango-Idiroko road were in terrible states of disrepair when Governor Abiodun took office.

    “Today, however, the story is different, as can be attested to by the good people of the area who daily pour prayers and appreciation messages on the current government in the state.

    “The Dapo Abiodun administration, rising up to the challenges posed by the huge road deficit in the axis, and moved by the cries of the people, embarked on a massive reconstruction of three out of the four major roads in the axis, almost at the same time. The remaining one, which is the now trending Ota-Itele-Lafenwa, is covered by the 2026 budget.

    “The Sango-Ijoko-Agbado-Oke Aro-Lambe-Akute road, which is about 30km; and 140km Sango Ota-Papalanto-Abeokuta road; as well as Sango-Idiroko road that stand at 63km, have all been turned into massive constructions sites where not less than 50 per cent progresses have been made.

    “But for the rains, work would have moved on at a much higher pace. Governor Abiodun has never left anyone in doubt of his determination to work assiduously till the very last minute of his tenure. The good people of Ogun State should be rest assured that the ongoing widespread development that is sweeping across the state will not exclude any part of the state.

    “At a time when our dear state is in the news for numerous never-seen-before feats, including a world class airport, a global standard Sports Complex, the largest cement factory in West Africa, and many others, we must not lose sight of the many reasons to be proud of our home state due to the antics of a few naysayers.”

  • Okpebholo to ex-deputy governor: you have seven days to return govt property

    Okpebholo to ex-deputy governor: you have seven days to return govt property

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has issued a seven-day ultimatum to former Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo to return government property and assets in his possession.

    The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said his administration observed that several official items, including vehicles, documents and other state-owned assets assigned to Omobayo were yet to be surrendered to the appropriate authorities, despite multiple formal reminders.

    The statement said assets acquired or utilised in the course of public service remained the property of the state and must be returned upon cessation of office.

    It said the continued retention of such property by any individual constituted a  breach of public trust and an unlawful possession of state assets.

    The statement added: “Failure to comply within the stipulated period will compel the government to direct the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to effect his arrest and ensure immediate recovery of all state assets still in his possession through lawful means.

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    “Edo State Government remains committed to accountability, due process and protection of public property.

    “No individual, regardless of former position or political affiliation, will be permitted to unlawfully appropriate or retain assets belonging to the people of Edo State.

    “The government urges Mr. Omobayo to respect this directive and avoid actions that can invite consequences or further embarrassment.”

    Responding, Omobayo said the matter was before a competent court.

    He said he received all entitlements, including his November salary.

  • Osun 2026: APC begins membership revalidation

    Osun 2026: APC begins membership revalidation

    All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has begun revalidation to register members ahead of 2026 governorship election.

    The Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, who hosted the 12-member revalidation team and state co-ordinators led by Mr John Malumi, the deputy director, Elections Management (Organising Department), enjoined the party chairmen in the local governments and area office in Modakeke to assist the team during the exercise.

    He said it was imperative for the party’s stakeholders to join hands with the visiting team for a desired result.

    Lawal, represented by the state Secretary of the party, Alhaji Alao Kamoru, told the visiting membership validation team that the party had put everything in place for them, in order to make the programme a success.

    Malumi told the APC state Working Committee and the chairmen of the party in the local governments that the exercise was not about registration of new members into the party, but rather to work on the existing members.

    Seeking the cooperation of the party chairmen in the local government, he said members of the party must be financial members and that they all had the right to vote and be voted for.

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    He said: “Credible members of the party must pay N200 per month for one year each and they have the right to contest for any position.

    “Some members have left the party; some are dead, while others have just joined. We have a mechanism of authenticating if any member of our party has paid.

    “The ward secretaries, ward organising secretaries and similar officers of the party at the local government level will have crucial roles to play in the party’s membership revalidation.”

    He said the exercise, which started on October 20, would end on the 31st, in line with the APC National Headquarters’ outline for the 2026 Osun State governorship primary election.