The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Ondo State Government reassures communities on road rehabilitation

    Ondo State Government reassures communities on road rehabilitation

    Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Idowu Ajanaku and the Majority Leader in the House of Assembly, Olatunji Oshati, have appealed to the protesting youths of Ireakari Local Council Development Area (LCDA) to remain calm and hopeful.  They assured them that government had not neglected them.

    The commissioner said Ireakari axis was mentioned at the last State Executive Council meeting under the Operation Emergency Road Construction programme, and expressed confidence that the roads in Idoani, Idogun, Imeri and Afo communities would soon be attended to as a matter of urgency.

    Ajanaku said the state and federal roads serving the communities, including Ipele-Idoani-Isua Road and Oba-Ikun-Afo Road had been brought to government’s attention.

    He said remedial works and major interventions would begin as soon as the rainy season subsided.

    Read Also: Nigeria secures AfDB commitment for agric expansion as SAPZ rolls out to 24 states

    He said the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa would never abandon any part of the state in its developmental agenda, adding that ‘Our Ease Agenda’ remained a guiding principle to ensure every citizen enjoyed the dividends of democracy. “The government of Dr. Aiyedatiwa is responsive and people-oriented. I want to assure our people in Ireakari that they have not been forgotten. Their concerns are already on the table, and as soon as weather permits, the road rehabilitation programme will extend to their axis,” Ajanaku said.

    On behalf of the state government, he urged youths to remain peaceful and continue to engage constructively with government, stressing that their sacrifices and patience would soon yield positive result.

  • Oyebanji unveils giant strides, wins award

    Oyebanji unveils giant strides, wins award

    Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has unveiled his giant strides and developmental growth since he came into the saddle.  He said his administration was committed to making Ekiti the new investment destination.

    The governor said his government had undertaken a combination of transformative policy decisions and pushed critical infrastructure development to a new height.

    He made this known at the 13th edition of the MARKETING EDGE EDGE awards and dinner held in Lagos. He won the 2025 Grand Prix at the awards.

    On advertising development and its relevance to economic growth, Oyebanji said advertising remained a powerful catalyst for economic growth because of its role in stimulating consumer demand for goods and services across the world.

    The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, disclosed in his key note speech that the “world over, advertising remains a powerful catalyst for economic growth, stimulating consumer demand for goods and services, fostering competition among businesses, driving mass production and in the process, lowering costs and prices, and creating jobs.’’

    He said: “From advanced economies to emerging markets, the marketing communication industry plays a critical role in shaping commerce and consumer behaviour. In Nigeria, the marketing communications industry has been even more pivotal to national growth and development.

    “Over the years, practitioners have projected the country’s image and supported the visibility of local businesses, helping to attract investments and position brands for competitiveness. From its humble beginning, advertising in Nigeria has grown into a multi-billion-naira industry.”

    Read Also: Nigeria secures AfDB commitment for agric expansion as SAPZ rolls out to 24 states

    Oyebanji noted that “Nigeria’s advertising market was valued at N605.2 billion in 2023, with projections pointing to N893 billion by 2028, representing a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.7 per cent since 2018. This trajectory highlights the sector’s resilience and its contribution to the broader economy. The figure will be much higher if we factor in public relations, corporate sponsorships, social media influencing and a host of below-the-line marketing spending.”

    MARKETING EDGE publisher and the chief organiser of the annual award, Mr. John Ajayi, thanking the Nigerian business community and the marketing and advertising sub-sector of the national economy for their years of support, patronage and acceptability, noted: “Every year, we gather to celebrate brands and advertising excellence; you always add colour and grandeur to it by making it a festival of brands and ideas.

    “Without you, this event would not have been this colourful and memorable. Ours have become one of the most anticipated events in the social calendar of the Nigerian integrated marketing communications eco-system.

    “We are gathered here to celebrate the achievements of some of the most successful brands, creative agencies, public service and political brand personalities, talented and dedicated personalities and professionals of distinction and honour across borders.

    “These outstanding personalities, brands, services, businesses and personalities have made significant contributions in different sectors of the economy, and we are grateful for their consistency, hard work and dedication that continue to impact every facet of our national growth and development.”

  • Eight Osun monarch threaten Oluwo over ‘false’ accusation against Ooni

    Eight Osun monarch threaten Oluwo over ‘false’ accusation against Ooni

    Eight traditional rulers in Ife North Local Government Area of Osun State on Thursday threatened legal action against Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi. 

    They also ssued 21-day ultimatum to the monarch to withdraw the alleged false accusation against Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. 

    The monarchs, including the Alasipa of Asipa, Oba Mufutau Oyekanmi; Olulamokun of Yakoyo, Oba Mesharch Oyediran, Alakinlaalu of Akinlaalu, Oba Oluwabusola Oloyede, among others, under the aegis of Origbo Meje Obas, led by the Salu of Edunabon, Oba Kehinde Adesoji, flayed the allegation by Oluwo that Oba Ogunwusi attempted to poison him in a viral video on social media. 

    Oba Adesoji held that Oluwo’s conduct amounted to insult and gross disrespect to the sacred throne of Oduduwa, describing his allegations against Ooni as criminal defamation and unbecoming of a traditional ruler.

    He recalled the activities of Oluwo in the past, which led to his suspension from the meetings of the Osun State Council of Obas after assaulting the Agbowu of Ogbaagba during a peace meeting. 

    He insisted that the recent outbursts of the Oluwo were aimed at ridiculing the institution of traditional leadership in Yorubaland, warning that such behaviour would no longer be tolerated.

    Read Also: Don urges old students to embrace unity

    His words: “Oluwo has 21 days to write to the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to substantiate his allegations or retract them publicly. Failure to do so will leave us with no choice but to take legal action against him at the expiration of this ultimatum.” 

    The monarchs noted that the Ooni of Ife remains the head of all traditional rulers in Yorubaland, describing the Oluwo’s continued outbursts as attempts to gain undue attention. 

    They stressed that no amount of unruly conduct from the Oluwo of Iwo would diminish the supremacy of the sacred stool of Oduduwa.

  • Nigeria @65: Economy regaining strength under Tinubu, says Lagos lawmaker

    Nigeria @65: Economy regaining strength under Tinubu, says Lagos lawmaker

    As Nigeria marks its 65th birthday, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Temitope Adedeji, has praised Nigerians for their resilience, urging them to sustain their trust for the government of President Bola Tinubu to continue to meet the yearnings of the people.

    In a statement by his media office on Wednesday in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Adewale, who represents Ifako-Ijaiye Constituency I, said Nigeria was going into its 66th year better than most of the years since Independence.

    According to him, the administration at the centre has successfully put the country on the right footing as the citizens would soon begin to see the results of the positive changes that have been brought to the economy.

    “The President has further rekindled our spirits with the Independence Day address in which he reeled out the achievements of his administration in just two years and a few months.

    READ ALSO: Renewing fight against out-of-school children, poor girl-child education

    “Globally-respected economic analysts and experts have confirmed that we are moving in the right direction.

    “We have left the most challenging face of economic growth. We are seeing steady improvements in the GDP of the country while inflation continues to drop. These are beautiful signals that our country is on the right path,” Adewale said.

    While urging Nigerians to keep supporting the Federal Government, he tasked the state governors to engage more in people-oriented programmes and policies as well as improve on infrastructure.

    “This is one of the best ways they can justify the allocations to the states which have increased tremendously under President Tinubu’s administration,” he added.

  • APC chieftain seeks accountable representation in government

    APC chieftain seeks accountable representation in government

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Olaniyan Taiwo, has called for accountable representation in government.

    He rejoiced with people of Iseyin, Itesiwaju, Kajola and Iwajowa local government areas of Oyo State as they joined fellow Nigerians to mark the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

    A statement by Olaniyan noted that as Nigeria marked her 65th independence anniversary, it is vital to acknowledge the progress made so far and challenges facing people, particularly, communities within the four local governments.

    According to him, there is need for people in the four council areas to put up collective efforts required to build a stronger and developed Constituency, so as to complement efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in building a better nation.

    READ ALSO: Renewing fight against out-of-school children, poor girl-child education

    Olaniyan charged people in the communities, Oke Ogun and Oyo North to genuinely support President Tinubu and ensure they rallied round him to another victory in 2027, which according to him will be in appreciation to the dividend of democracy the President has given them.

    He said: “Let us maintain our faith with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at national rebirth, economic transformation and collective prosperity.”

    He urged people in the four local government areas to develop spirit of working together towards a brighter future for themselves and yet unborn generation.

    Olaniyan declared readiness to support efforts of people in the communities irrespective of their status towards achieving a prosperous and developed Constituency where they can thrive and reach their full potential.

  • Adeleke frees 36 convicts to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

    Adeleke frees 36 convicts to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day

    Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered the release of 36 inmates convicted for various offences in commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.

    The governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, disclosed on Wednesday that the beneficiaries, serving sentences at the Nigerian Correctional Service facilities in Ilesa and Ile-Ife, were freed under the constitutional powers vested in the governor by Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, based on the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy.

    In a proclamation dated September 24, 2025, and issued under his hand and the Public Seal of Osun State, Governor Adeleke formally granted amnesty to the listed convicts under the state’s jurisdiction.

     “I, Senator (Dr.) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, the Governor of Osun State of Nigeria, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by Paragraph (a) Subsection (1) of Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), and acting in accordance with the Advisory Council of State designated under Subsection (2) of the said Section, am graciously pleased to extend my mercy to the said thirty-six (36) convicts.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    “By this act, I remit and release unto them all pains, penalties, and punishments whatsoever that may have accrued from their convictions, and I hereby require all to whom it may concern to take due notice thereof.

    “This shall be a sufficient warrant. Given under my hand and the Public Seal of Osun State, Nigeria, this 24th day of September, 2025.”

    He noted that beneficiaries of this Independence Day amnesty include men and women convicted mostly of minor offences such as stealing and conspiracy, many of whom had served substantial portions of their sentences.

    Rasheed noted that Adeleke emphasized that the decision reflects the spirit of compassion, justice, and renewal, which Nigeria’s Independence Day represents:

    “As a government of the people, we remain committed to upholding justice while extending mercy to deserving citizens. This amnesty is not only a gesture of freedom but also a call for true rehabilitation, reintegration, and a fresh start for these individuals,” the governor said.

  • Olubadan Ladoja tours official palace, meets council members

    Olubadan Ladoja tours official palace, meets council members

    The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Wednesday embarked on a familiarisation tour of his official palace at Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, ahead of his planned relocation into the magnificent edifice.

    The visit marked the first official assignment of the newly crowned 44th Olubadan, who ascended the throne last Friday in a historic coronation at Mapo Hall.

    Before the tour, Oba Ladoja held a meeting with members of the Olubadan-in-Council, after which he was conducted around the palace by aides.

    The inspection was aimed at assessing the state of the infrastructure and acquainting the monarch with the palace facilities.

    A palace aide, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the monarch expressed satisfaction with the condition of the palace after touring its various departments.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Oba Ladoja is expected to move into the official palace once the coronation activities are concluded. 

    He will be the second Olubadan to reside in the palace, following his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who broke tradition by becoming the first to rule from there instead of a private residence.

    As part of the ongoing coronation events, a special Jumat service will be held on Friday at Oja’ba Central Mosque, while the ceremonies will conclude with the Isese traditional rites on Saturday.

  • Nigeria @65: Abiru salutes Nigerians’ resilience, steadfastness

    Nigeria @65: Abiru salutes Nigerians’ resilience, steadfastness

    The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has commended Nigerians for their resilience and steadfastness as the nation marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

    In his Independence Day message, Abiru emphasised that Nigeria’s rich diversity must continue to serve as a source of unity and strength, rather than division.

    He urged citizens to reject divisive rhetoric, intolerance, and actions capable of undermining national cohesion, stressing that the country’s future rests on the collective resolve of its people to work together in peace and progress.

    Senator Abiru, who chairs both the Southern Senators’ Forum and the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance, and Other Financial Institutions, also called for increased support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    He noted that the President’s bold reforms are gradually yielding the desired outcomes.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    The Senator’s statement reads, “Today, as we mark the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved nation, I join millions of compatriots in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and enduring spirit. Despite the economic, social, and political hurdles before us, our dear nation remains a beacon of hope on the African continent.

    “Our diversity — with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages — is our greatest asset. Under the green-and-white flag, we must continue to strengthen our unity, guard against actions that deepen our national fault lines, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building.

    “I equally appeal to all Nigerians to continue to stand solidly with our esteemed leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as he provides bold and focused leadership that is clearly redirecting our country toward enduring sustainable development and economic growth.

    “The administration’s major policies have already begun to yield positive results. The harmonization of the foreign exchange market, among other laudable reforms, has helped to curb spiraling inflation, boost investor confidence, and lay the groundwork for a stable economic environment where enterprises can thrive — ultimately leading to shared prosperity.

    “This is not the time to give up on Nigeria. It is precisely at moments like this that our unity, resilience, and patriotism matter most. With determination and a shared sense of purpose, I am confident that we will emerge as a stronger and more prosperous nation — not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.”

  • Nigeria @65: Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu as visionary leader steering Nigeria’s progress

    Nigeria @65: Aiyedatiwa hails Tinubu as visionary leader steering Nigeria’s progress

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has described Nigeria as fortunate to have President Bola Tinubu at the helm of affairs, commending his bold economic reforms and developmental strides.

    Speaking on Wednesday at the 65th Independence Day celebration held at the Arcade Ground in Akure, Aiyedatiwa said Nigeria is on the right path under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He added, “Our country is blessed at a time like this to have a visionary leader like His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

    “We must continue to appreciate Mr. President for his bold economic reforms, social re-engineering, and massive infrastructural development.

    “Indications are that Nigeria is certainly making progress and on the path of glory under the Renewed Hope Initiatives,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Nigeria @ 65: Wike hails Tinubu’s progress, urges Nigerians to embrace peace, unity

    Reflecting on the essence of Independence Day, the governor urged Nigerians to remember the courage of the nation’s founding fathers and to draw lessons from the country’s journey since 1960.

    “This celebration is not just about remembering a date in history. It is about reflecting on our journey as a people. Independence gave us more than self-rule – it gave us the dignity of identity, the right to dream as Nigerians, and the opportunity to chart a course for our future,” he noted.

    Aiyedatiwa said his administration has remained committed to its promises under the ‘OUR EASE’ agenda, highlighting key projects across the state, including the dualisation and rehabilitation of roads, improvements in the health sector, bursaries and scholarships for indigent students, and support for security agencies.

    “None of these projects and programmes would have been possible without your trust, patience, and support. To the good people of Ondo State who believe in this administration, and even to those who watch silently, I say thank you,” the governor said.

    He further urged the people to remain optimistic, resilient, and united in the face of challenges, stressing the need for peace, love, and hard work in building a prosperous nation.

    “Let me assure you, in the coming months, you will see more progress. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember that freedom comes with responsibility. We must remain united as a people, committed to peace, and focused on building a better future.

    “Ondo State is moving forward, Nigeria is moving forward; the sun of a new dawn is rising over our state. Let us walk together into that dawn with love, diligence, courage, and faith,” he concluded.

  • FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    FASON leaders pay homage to Olubadan, Alaafin

    Leaders of the Federation of Ahlus-Sunnah Organizations in Nigeria (FASON) on Sunday paid royal homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

    The delegation, led by FASON National Amir Sheikh Tajudeen Abdul Kareem Al Adabiyy, included the West Africa President of JIBWIS Dr. Abdullahi Bala Lau, National Vice President of the Supreme Council for Shari’a in Nigeria Sheikh Isa Solahudeen Akindele, and other prominent Islamic scholars.

    They were joined by traditional rulers such as Oba Abdul Azeez Olatubosun Adebanji, the Akire of Ikire Ile, and Oba Qazeem Ilufemiloye I, the Olowu of Owu Ile, alongside academics including Professor Mutiullah Olasupo of the University of Abuja.

    Sheikh Al Adabiyy said the visit was to offer prayers for the monarchs’ long life and successful reigns. Akindele, in his remarks, also appealed to the Olubadan to help curb land-grabbing challenges in Ibadanland.

     “We pray to Almighty God to grant you a long time and good health. We pray to God to give you the wisdom to direct the affairs successfully.

    He said, “God will allow you to implement the good visions you have for this city and Nigeria in general. Many things that are not good are happening in the city, such as land grabbing. You have said that you will tackle these problems, God will give you the wisdom to do it”.

    READ ALSO: 2027: ex-President Jonathan just one of our options, says PDP

    During the visit to the Alaafin, Sheik Al Adabiyy informed that the visit became necessary to pray for the traditional rulers.

    While in Oyo, the group was received by the Khadeemul Musleemuun of Oyo Kingdom, Sheikh Daud Tijani Igi Ogun, and Aare Musulumi of Oyo, Alhaji Kamarise, in a brief but colourful reception at the JIBWIS group of school, a multilingual event anchored by Sheikh Tajudeen Imam of Prince and Princess Central Mosque, Abuja.

    Sheik Al Adabiyy, while speaking, said, “We have come from different parts of the country; we have people who came from Abuja and other parts of the country here. The purpose of the visits is to pray for you for a long life and a successful reign

    “We are here to greet you, we are here to pray for you. We have been doing it when you were not there, we are now doing it in your presence. What we want is for God to grant you a long life”.

    The Olubadan and the Alaafin, in their separate remarks, said that they were happy to receive the leaders of the Islamic organisation.

    They thanked the organisation for the visit.

    They urged them to continue in their prayers to promote peaceful coexistence in the country.