The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • ‘We’re glad backing our alma mater’

    ‘We’re glad backing our alma mater’

    The President of Ewutuntun Grammar School Old Students Association, Otunba Adekunle Jaiyesinmi, has stressed the need for old students to give back to their alma mater.

    Jaiyesinmi, speaking yesterday at Ewutuntun Senior Grammar School, Mafoluko-Oshodi, Lagos, when the Class of 1985 presented refurbished administrative and classroom blocks and other items to the school, said: ‘’We are always happy giving back to our alma mater.’’

    He added: ’’The inauguration of an admin building, principal’s office, four classrooms for senior secondary school students and furniture to commemorate 40 years of the  graduation of this foundation set of the school, gladdens our hearts.

    ‘’Through this generous undertaking, the Class of ’85 has reminded us of the power of unity, service and giving back. Their act has rekindled the spirit of stewardship that binds us as old students and reaffirmed that Ewutuntun Grammar School is not just a school, but also a family.’’

    The Tutor-General, Education District VI, Mrs Mojisola Yusuff, hailed the old students for the projects and urged the current students to use the items carefully.

    Read Also: Christ School alumni renovates alma mater’s dormitory

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abiola Dokunmu-Adegbite, lauded Otunba Jaiyesinmi, the Chairman of the 40th Anniversary Celebration Committee, Alhaji Wasiu Balogun and other old students for their magnanimity.

    She also hailed the Principal of Ewutuntun Senior Grammar School, Mr Nureni Alade, the principal of Ewutuntun Junior Grammar School, vice principals and teachers for imparting knowledge to the students.  

  • Reps to Fed Govt: fix Niger road

    Reps to Fed Govt: fix Niger road

    • Obi mourns victims

    The House of Representatives has called for urgent federal intervention on the recurrent tanker explosions, fatal accidents, and traffic gridlocks along the Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata–Diko Road in Niger State following the tragic tanker explosion at Essa Village in Katcha Local Government Area that claimed over 30 lives and injured more than 40 others.

    The resolution followed the adoption of a motion moved by Saidu Musa Abdullahi (SMA), member representing Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, who described the highway as “a national tragedy and an infrastructural failure that continues to cost Nigerian lives.”

    Also, Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic tanker explosion.

    Obi extended his condolences to the families of the victims, the affected communities, and the government of Niger State, describing the incident as “both sad and painful.”

    He lamented that poverty continues to push many Nigerians into life-threatening situations in their struggle to survive, noting that the increasing frequency of such tragedies across the country reflects a deepening national crisis.

    Abdullahi, while leading the debate, lamented that the affected road, a major federal route linking Niger State with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and other regions, has remained in deplorable condition for decades despite repeated government promises and multiple contract awards for its rehabilitation.

    He noted that the road serves as a vital corridor for the transportation of petroleum products, agricultural commodities, and other goods, but has instead become a recurring scene of disaster and sorrow due to neglect and poor maintenance.

    Read Also: Christ School alumni renovates alma mater’s dormitory

    “The recent tanker explosion at Essa Village is one in a long line of tragedies along the Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata–Diko corridor. It is unacceptable that in 2025, this critical route continues to claim innocent lives and destroy livelihoods because successive administrations have failed to act decisively,” Abdullahi said.

    The lawmaker recalled that at one point, the project was included under the Road Infrastructure Tax Credit Scheme, a Public-Private Partnership model aimed at leveraging corporate tax obligations for road construction. However, he expressed concern that the Federal Government’s recent cancellation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s road interventions had thrown the fate of several projects, including the Bida–Agaie–Lapai–Lambata–Diko Road, into uncertainty.

    The House expressed deep concern that the continued neglect of the road has led to frequent gridlocks, destruction of goods, and prolonged economic hardship for commuters, traders, and residents. It described the route as “a death trap for motorists, tanker drivers, and travelers” whose economic importance to Niger State and the country cannot be overstated.

    Following extensive deliberations, the House urged the Federal Ministry of Works and the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to immediately mobilise contractors and resources for the full rehabilitation, expansion, and completion of the road, particularly the section between Bida and Agaie, which is reportedly the most dangerous.

    It also mandated the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and other relevant agencies to intensify enforcement of safety standards for tankers and heavy-duty vehicles, with strict adherence to roadworthiness, loading procedures, and emergency response protocols.

    The former Anambra State governor urged leaders at all levels to show greater empathy and responsibility.

    “The loss of Nigerian lives has become so frequent that it is often met with silence and indifference from those in authority. We cannot continue this way. I appeal once again that we, the leaders, must show greater empathy, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility,” he stated.

    Obi reiterated his call for a Nigeria that prioritizes the dignity and safety of its citizens, emphasizing that every life must be valued and protected.

    “We must remain committed to building a nation that truly values its people—where every life is treated with dignity. These recurring tragedies should awaken us to our collective responsibility to build a Nigeria where no one has to die simply trying to live,” he said.

  • Ekiti Tampan congratulates Oyebanji on third anniversary in office

    Ekiti Tampan congratulates Oyebanji on third anniversary in office

    Olasunkanmi Dada, the Governor of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) Ekiti Chapter, has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji, on his third year anniversary in office.

    In a  statement with newsmen, Dada described Oyebanji’s three years in office as an unprecedented period of steady progress and transformational leadership.

    He described the successes recorded in all sectors, particularly in entertainment, as a strong testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to the development of Ekiti and a reflection of his administration’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

    According to the experienced thespian, the Governor’s policies in the past three years have stimulated growth across critical sectors, including infrastructure, education, and healthcare.

    “The governor has demonstrated unparalleled leadership skill in the last three years. The results are visible in all sectors. His style of inclusive governance and economic empowerment have really endeared him to the people of the state,” Dada stated.

    Speaking further, Dada commended Oyebanji for fostering unity among the people of the state and for maintaining an open-door leadership style that accommodates diverse opinions.

    Read Also: Coalition lauds Oyebanji’s infrastructure renaissance

    He said the steady rise in all developmental indices in the state can be traced to the governor’s visionary approach, which he claimed has laid a solid foundation for sustainable development and a more prosperous future for the state.

    “We, members of Tampan in Ekiti are grateful to the governor for his administration’s efforts to develop entertainment and tourism in Ekiti state. His administration’s  achievements within three years have brought tangible improvements to the lives of our people, and we are happy to associate ourselves with the progressive trend being witnessed in Ekiti,” he said.

    Dada reaffirmed his support and that of his theatre practitioners in the state for the governor’s administration and pledged continued collaboration towards achieving the collective aspirations of the people of Ekiti State.

  • Gbajabiamila donates secondary school to Lagos LCDA

    Gbajabiamila donates secondary school to Lagos LCDA

    The Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, on Wednesday inaugurated a secondary school in Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Surulere area of Lagos,the first- ever public secondary school in the community.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)reports that the school was facilitated by the Chief of Staff to the President.

    Inaugurating the school, Gbajabiamila Junior Secondary School, the Chief of Staff said hardship faced by parents and guardians accessing secondary education for their children and wards had ended.

    “This event marks a defining milestone in our collective pursuit of accessible, quality education for every child in this community.

    “It is not merely opening a new institution but the birth of opportunity, progress, and renewed hope for generations to come.

    “For the first time in the history of Itire-lkate, this community now has a public secondary school within its borders,” he said.

    Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Rep. Lanre Okunola, member representing Surulere II at the House of Representatives, said that parents had been watched their children travel long distances daily to attend schools outside their community for many years.

    He added: “Some faced daily hardships and safety concerns, while others abandoned their education altogether.

    Today, that struggle has ended.

    “This school stands as a beacon of inclusion, ensuring that no child in Itire-lkate is left behind because of geography or circumstances, which also reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu to provide continuous support for education at all levels in Nigeria.”

    According to him, education has always been the foundation of every prosperous society as it empowers individuals, transforms communities, and builds nations.

    Gbajabiamila said that throughout his years in public service, he had remained deeply committed to advancing education at all levels.

    He recounted that during his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives, he championed the Students’ Loan Bill, now signed into law.

    Thanking President Tinubu for assenting to the bill, he said that the idea aimed to ensure that every young Nigerian, regardless of financial background, could pursue higher education without the burden of cost.

    “However, education does not start at university; it begins in schools like this, where young minds are nurtured and shaped for the future,” he said.

    He said that his involvement with education had never been limited to policy or legislation.

    “In Surulere, we have worked to renovate schools, equip classrooms, and provide teaching aids.

    “I have volunteered to teach in secondary schools, believing leadership must be demonstrated through action, not just words.

    “By sharing my time and experience with students, I have seen firsthand how education fosters discipline, confidence, and purpose.

    “This school embodies the same commitment to give every child the opportunity to learn, dream, and succeed,” he added.

    The chief of staff appreciated the leaders, stakeholders, and people of Itire-lkate LCDA for naming the institution after him.

    According to him, the influence of the institution will extend well beyond its classrooms.

    “It will create jobs for teachers, administrators, and support staff, and it will serve as a centre of learning and community pride.

    “It will shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals who will contribute to the progress of Lagos State and Nigeria.

    “When a community invests in education, it invests in peace, prosperity, and continuity,” he said.

    The chief of staff expressed gratitude to the State Government, particularly the Ministry of Basic Education, for their partnership and commitment to integrating the school into the public education system.

    Speaking, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said that the inauguration of Femi Gbajabiamila Junior Secondary School, was a testament to the power of philanthropy and dedication in the delivery of transformative intervention that can change the community forever.

    Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun described the project as life- transforming.

    “The frontier of education governance globally is predicated on collaboration and partnership with the government on building a better and brighter tomorrow for our children.

    “With access to qualitative education in the state, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the chief of staff to Mr President and by extension to everyone that has contributed to the realisation of this remarkable project.

    “This life-transforming project no doubt profoundly impacts countless students, shaping the future and contributing importantly to the advancement of the education sector, particularly in the Itire-Ikate and the state in general.

    He said that the school would serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of progress the state worked hard to achieve.

    “The project embodies our collective commitment to providing, quality education, equipping our children with skills, knowledge, values necessary to excel in life.

    “This project in no doubt aligns with the present administration ‘s THEMES Plus Agenda, in which education and technology stood out as a top pillar,” he said.

    Also speaking, Rep. Fuad Laguda, representing Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, noted that Gbajabiamila’s numerous interventions had continued to put him on his toes, as the former speaker’s successor.

    Read Also: Gbajabiamila hails military, unveils 1,200-seater auditorium at Lagos Army Barracks

    Speaking, Chairman, Coker/Aguda LCDA, Mr Azeez Ogidan, described the project as monumental and a big gift for Surulere constituency.

    Ogidan said that Gbajabiamila had over the years demonstrated visionary leadership and passion for service with a far-reaching impact on education, healthcare, infrastructure and youth empowerment.

    According to him, Gbajabiamila’s interventions have continued to touch lives, transform communities and strengthen the social fabrics of Surulere.

    “This school stands not only as the beacon of knowledge,but also as a lasting legacy of Gbajabiamila’s education impact, building a brighter future for our children,” he said.

    He said that Gbajabiamila’s impacts in Coker/Aguda and Itire-Ikate LCDAs,which together form Surulere Constituency 2, had continued to inspire confidence in the people.

    The chairman said that both councils were also delighted to know that contractors would soon resume work at the fire station project in Coker/Aguda–another initiative facilitated by Gbajabiamila.

    Responding, the Chairman, Itire-Ikate LCDA, Mr Oluwafemi Odunayo, who applauded Gbajabiamila for the “impactful project”, described the school as a milestone in the community.

    “This is a testament of Gbajabiamila’s unwavering commitment to development of our community and the education of our youths,” Odunayo said.

    He said that the council had also done a lot in supporting educational development in the area, including distribution of over 200 free GCE forms, no fewer than 5000 school uniforms and school bags.

    The chairman said that the council would make good use of the school.

    NAN reports that the event was attended by various stakeholders,including Mr Desmond Elliot,representing Surulere 1 in the State House of Assembly ,and Mrs Mosunmola Sangodara,representing Surulere 2.

    A traditional ruler, Oba Lateef Adams, the Onikate of Surulere, was among those who attended the inauguration.

  • Ododo to Oyebanji: you’ve demonstrated capacity

    Ododo to Oyebanji: you’ve demonstrated capacity

    • Kogi governor inaugurates road, hospital projects in Ekiti

    Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo yesterday said his counterpart in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, had demonstrated capacity, which indicated that he was well prepared for the task of governing Ekiti State.

    This, he said, continued to reflect in Oyebanji’s excellent performance across all sectors in the last three years.

    Ododo said there were verifiable and convincing evidence across the critical sectors of the economy that pointed to the fact that Governor Oyebanji had fulfilled the social contract he signed with the people.

    He spoke in Ilawe-Ekiti while inaugurating the 21-kilometre Ikere-Ilawe Road, and the renovated General Hospital, projects of the Governor Oyebanji administration.

    Addressing the large crowd that thronged the venue of the ceremony, Governor Ododo, the special guest of honour, lauded Oyebanji  for hiring the services of local contractors to execute some of the road projects.

    He said such extreme display of leadership spoke volume about Oyebanji’s belief in the development of human resources that were available to the country.

    READ ALSO: Sowore: When activism becomes complicity

    Ododo hailed Oyebanji for giving Ekiti State impactful governance in infrastructure, human capital development, tourism, agriculture and youth development.

    Governor Oyebanji described the completion of the road as a jinx breaking expedition, saying whatever he had achieved in Ekiti could be hinged on the enigmatic economic reformations being carried out at the federal level by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He said his administration had not borrowed a dime to fund any of the capital projects being undertaken for the benefit of the masses.

    He thanked the President for making more resources available to the subnational.

    “I have not borrowed a dime to fund any of the capital projects going on in Ekiti State. This is because of the reforms being carried out by President Tinubu that have made more money available to states.”

    Oyebanji said an aggregate of 10 roads spread across Ekiti would be inaugurated to mark the third anniversary, which were strategically undertaken to drive tourism, local economy, transportation, small and medium enterprises and agriculture.

    The Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi, lauded the governor for clearing  hurdles and ensuring speedy completion of the road, after the initial setback that nearly stalled the readiness of the road for usage.

  • Mandykiss: Ondo CP redeploys DPO over unprofessional conduct

    Mandykiss: Ondo CP redeploys DPO over unprofessional conduct

    Ondo State Police Commissioner CP Adebowale Lawal, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Enu-Owa Division in Ondo town over alleged unprofessional conduct in handling a recent case involving a social media influencer, Adefolarin Ayomiposi, popularly known as Mandykiss.

    The redeployment of the senior officer, who was yet to be named, was contained in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the state command, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, in Akure yesterday.

    Ayanlade said the command took the action after a video surfaced online showing the influencer recording and taking snapshots of two suspects – Mrs. Akinwole Sabitu and her daughter, Miss Akinwole Oyindamola – while in police custody at the Enu-Owa Division.

    “The incident, which has generated widespread public concern, prompted a swift internal review by the command. Preliminary findings revealed that no police personnel accompanied Mandykiss during the purported arrest,” the statement read.

    According to him, the influencer was reportedly aided by some of her social media followers, who provided information leading to the arrest of the suspects accused of alleged cyberbullying.

    READ ALSO: Sowore: When activism becomes complicity

    “After effecting the arrest, she was seen recording a video inside her vehicle while conveying the suspects to the station,” Ayanlade added.

    He explained that upon arrival at the station, ‘Mandykiss’ handed the suspects over to the police but went on to take their photographs within the premises and post them on social media — an act contrary to standard police procedure and inconsistent with the legal principle of presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

    He said the CP, therefore, directed the senior officer’s immediate redeployment, emphasizing that the command would not condone any conduct capable of undermining public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

    CP Lawal reiterated that recording or photographing suspects in custody violates ethical standards and contravenes established police procedures for handling suspects.

    He reminded officers to remain vigilant, impartial, and professional in all operations while ensuring that the rights of both suspects and complainants are protected in line with the law.

    The police commissioner further stressed that the DPO’s conduct does not reflect the discipline, integrity, and core values of the Nigeria Police Force.

    CP Lawal, however, reaffirmed his commitment to upholding discipline and accountability across the command.

  • ‘How govt can use music to help Nigerians’

    ‘How govt can use music to help Nigerians’

    The Asiwaju of Ijesaland and founder of Ibadan Business School, High Chief Olayinka Fasuyi, has urged organisations and government to exploit the power of music to help Nigerians who may have either fallen into depression or are suffering from diverse mental health issues as a result of the prevailing economic problems in the country.

    He gave the advice during a special musical orchestra on the third day of activities marking his 70th birthday.

    Fasuyi said the transformative power of music, which had, for centuries, formed an integral part of human culture, had a special place in people’s lives.

    Fasuyi, who is also the chairman/founder of  Supreme Management Training and Consultancy Services Limited, was speaking during an evening of scintillating classical and contemporary musical orchestra by the renowned kapellmeister, Prince Abiodun Lufadeju, the composer of Ijesa anthem, and his ensemble of musicians.

    “Music has great power in its effects,” Fasuyi declared. “It is therapeutic. When optimally harnessed, it has great potential to heal Nigerians in depression occasioned by the struggling economy or causes that distress the soul.

    READ ALSO: Alleged forgery: Anyanwu signed letter before Govs, Saraki, Aliyu, others – PDP

    “When people sing, or dance, sorrow flees. No song has sour taste. In Biblical times, David used the power of music to heal King Saul, who was struggling with serious mental health issue. David used music to curry favour from God. Even after committing murder, and other sins, remorseful David sang high praises to God, and God not only forgave him, God still maintained that David was a man after His heart.”

    Fasuyi also went down memory lane to recall how music rescued him from looming failure in his undergraduate days at the University of Ibadan.

    Economics, he said, was his favourite subject in secondary school and at advanced level, where he soared like an eagle. But when he gained admission into the University of Ibadan, the tide changed and economics, his first love, almost became his Achilles’ heel. Mathematics, a major component of his course of study, became so hard that it constituted a serious weakness and threat to his overall strength.

    It would have led to his downfall, Fasuyi, then a party freak, said frankly. But he discovered the power of music.

    “Economics was tough for me in the university,” Fasuyi stressed. “But I found healing and an enduring solution in Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey’s music. Before reading, or attempting any problem, I would play Obey’s music, and pronto, the mathematical problem would be solved.”

    Stressing that good music has been an integral part of his existence ever since, Fasuyi  advised “governments, organisations-religious and social, to explore the power of music to encourage and motivate, by organising regular musical concerts.”

  • Oyebanji my greatest achievement, says Fayemi

    Oyebanji my greatest achievement, says Fayemi

    Former Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has described the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, as his greatest achievement.

    He lauded the governor’s outstanding performance, visionary leadership and commitment to continuity in governance.

    Fayemi gave the commendation at Ijelu-Ekiti during the inauguration of Itapa–Ijelu–Omu Road, one of the numerous projects completed by the Oyebanji administration as part of activities marking its third anniversary.

    The ex-governor expressed delight that his successor had not only built on his administration’s legacy, but had also surpassed expectations in the delivery of good governance.

    “Absolutely, he is my greatest achievement. I have my own imperfections, but those imperfections he has managed to correct or reduce. God has indeed been kind to us in Ekiti by blessing us with a governor who is focused on transformation rather than unnecessary politicking at the expense of development.”

    Read Also: W’Cup 2026: Toro hails NFF, stakeholders for Super Eagles’   playoff spot

    The former governor said the success of the Oyebanji administration validated his belief in purposeful and people-centred leadership, adding that the governor’s track record within three years justified the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the people of Ekiti to rally behind him for the 2026 governorship election.

    Fayemi praised Oyebanji for prioritising infrastructure development, particularly road building and rehabilitation, which, according to him, had boosted commerce, improved connectivity and eased transportation across the state.

    He said the new roads built and inaugurated under the Oyebanji government were strategic to Ekiti’s economic growth, linking key agricultural zones, business communities and tourism corridors to major urban centres.

    “I want to thank our governor for not disappointing us and for holding firmly to his faith in God and commitment to truth. He has delivered on the task of governing Ekiti and is leaving it better than we left it.

    “We have every reason to be proud of him and no reason to abandon him.”

    Highlighting the governor’s performance, Fayemi listed several roads initiated by his administration but completed by Oyebanji, including Itapa–Ijelu–Omu, Omisanjana–Atlas, Agric Olope–Moferere, Ijurin–Ayegunle, GRA Third Extension, Ikole–Ara–Isinbode, and Ikere–Ilawe roads, among others.

    Oyebanji thanked his predecessor for laying the solid foundation upon which his administration had continued to build.

    He said the achievements recorded so far were the result of collective efforts of successive administrations united by a common vision for a prosperous Ekiti.

    The governor described the event as a demonstration of the gains of continuity in governance, stressing that development became faster when leaders built on the legacies of their predecessors, rather than abandoned them.

    Oyebanji thanked Fayemi for breaking the jinx of discontinuity that had hindered Ekiti’s progress since its creation, noting that all road projects initiated by the previous administration, but left unfinished, had been completed.

    “I bless God for today. What is happening here speaks to what Ekiti has lost over the years due to lack of continuity. If we had been building on each other’s work since the days of Otunba Niyi Adebayo, our state would have gone far. I thank Dr. Fayemi for breaking that jinx, and I’m proud that nearly all the projects he started are now completed.”

    The Owajumu of Omu Kingdom, Oba Adeoye Joseph; retired Anglican Bishop, Rev’d Michael Ipinmoye and National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Chairman, Chief Falope Joseph, lauded Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to rural and infrastructure development.

    They described the project as a lifeline that would ease movement, boost commerce and improve access to health care and education.

  • I foster development of Yoruba culture, says Alonge

    I foster development of Yoruba culture, says Alonge

    • Ooni confers Awokose Oodua title on NIESV president

    The President of Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors & Valuers (NIESV), Prince Victor Alonge, has said he has fostered the development of Yoruba culture.

    He spoke when the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, conferred the chieftaincy title of Awokose Omoluabi Oodua on him.

    Alonge expressed gratitude to Ooni, saying: “I accept this title with absolute humility and stance of responsibility. I accept it as a show of love and kindness, also recognition. I promise to continue to do my best to uplift my community and my profession.

    “The profession gave me the platform to express myself. I thank those who are responsible for the establishment of the profession in Nigeria.”

    Read Also: Jalla kicks over undue  FIFA ‘s intervention in NFF’s electoral process

    He urged the Federal Government to prioritise the role of professionals in nation-building.

    “There is nothing in terms of ideas and knowledge that we have in Nigeria that each profession cannot provide. It is for the government and those in power to recognise and accept while evolving.”

    The monarch hinged his decision to give chieftaincy title to Alonge on his contributions to human development and commitment to promoting peace, unity and cultural heritage.

    He urged him to use the new positions to further promote Oduduwa race globally.

  • Monarch installs philanthropist as Yeye Bobajiro of Oodua

    Monarch installs philanthropist as Yeye Bobajiro of Oodua

    Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ile-Ife,  has installed a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Afolashade Shona-Aluko, as Yeye Bobajiro of Oodua.

    The event, held at his palace, was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.

    Conferring the chieftaincy title on Shona-Aluko, the monarch lauded her for impacting on Nigerians through entrepreneurship, saying her efforts towards alleviating the sufferings of the masses were numerous.

    Ooni said: “Shona-Aluko’s impact towards uplifting entrepreneurs impressed me a lot. So, I decided to reward her kindness with this chieftaincy title.”

    The new Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, who could not hide her joy, said she could not comprehend how it happened to have being honoured by a foremost monarch in Yorubaland and Arole Oduduwa, Oba Ogunwusi.

    Read Also: Jalla kicks over undue  FIFA ‘s intervention in NFF’s electoral process

    She said: “To God be the glory for counting me worthy to be honoured with the title of Yeye Bobajiro Oodua by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife. The event was witnessed by many prominent traditional rulers and dignitaries from far and near.”

    The Offa, Kwara State-born entrepreneur and philanthropist said her new title would spur her to do more for the development of mankind, promotion of Yoruba race and cultural institutions.

    Some of the subjects of Ooni, who also spoke at the event, urged Shona-Aluko to collaborate with Ooni towards the progress and development of Ile-Ife and the entire Yorubaland.

    They said: “Ile-Ife is the source of mankind. Ooni don’t just confer chieftaincy title on anyone, but those who deserve it and have contributed well to the development of Ile-Ife and Yorubaland as a whole.

    Let’s see your impact in Ile-Ife and Yorubaland.”