The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Entrepreneurs gain export skills at Lagos Mainland trade fair

    Entrepreneurs gain export skills at Lagos Mainland trade fair

    Nigerian Export Promotions Council (NEPC) played a significant role at the just-concluded maiden Lagos Trade Fair by enhancing the export capabilities of entrepreneurs.  

    Senior Trade Officers from NEPC,  Nancy Okpa and Olumide Olatinde equipped the entrepreneurs with knowledge and skills  necessary for international trade.

    The vendors learnt the step by step export procedures. They also gained insights on the importance of compliance with international standards.

    A lawyer-turned- entrepreneur Monalisa Abiola Aze whose company Mona Matthews curated the event ,expressed appreciation for developing the export capabilities of entrepreneurs and providing them access to international markets. 

    She said the ” Vendors will be more confident and equipped to navigate the exportation process.”

     “Through exportation entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and access global market,”She added.

    Olori Janet Afolabi, a Publisher and Queen of Apomu Kingdom, who collaborated with Azeh  on the event, commended NEPC for its effort to reduce Nigeria economic vulnerability to oil price fluctuation by promoting non oil  exports.” She said: through exportation there will be increased foreign exchange earnings”

    Apart from NEPC, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration Control (NAFDAC) officials also attended the Trade Fair to sensitise entrepreneurs on the need to register their products. 

    The event drew a large crowd  and sparked entrepreneurial growth.

     Aze said: ” I am overwhelmed by the success of the  event   We are grateful for the enthusiasm from Vendors who showcased  their products and services with passion..

    “The event has shown that with determination and hard work we can create a lasting impact and provide opportunities for growth and expansion of businesses and services “

    Olori Afolabi  described  the event  as  a great first attempt ” It exceeded my expectations.It was incredible to see entrepreneurs come together to celebrate enterprise and innovations. The energy was amazing. We look  forward to building on this momentum.”

     Vendors at the Fair expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the opportunities provided by the event.Many of them reported increased visibility, valuable connections and potential business deals.

    One of them,  Enobong  Ezekiel, CEO / Founder Coreal8  said: “l am honoured to have been a part of this experience. I was able to connect with many customers and partners.The organisers did an incredible job of creating  a vibrant and supportive atmosphere  that allowed us to showcase our services”

    The event held om September 6-7 at Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Ikeja Lagos.

    It attracted about 100 versatile vendors, showcasing  a wide range of products and services in fashion, food, lifestyle, technology and beauty.

    The event featured food courts, entertainment and games, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. 

     Many visitors attended the fair, including Tope Alabi a popular gospel musician. 

    The Fair, which showcased the entrepreneurial strength of Lagos, is expected to have a positive impact on the local  economy .

  • Lagos begins 2026 budget consultation

    Lagos begins 2026 budget consultation

    The Lagos State government has commenced consultations on the 2026 budget with a call for residents’ active participation in shaping the fiscal priorities of the state.

    Speaking at the opening session of the Budget Consultative Forum for the Ikeja Division held at the Multipurpose Hall of Radio Lagos, Agidingbi, the Commissioner Lagos State, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, Ope George, said the exercise was designed to give citizens a voice in the budget process while also providing updates on the performance of the 2025 budget.

     “This is the first of our visits into the divisions of the state. We are here to hear from our people what they want to see in the 2026 budget. It also gives us an opportunity to report back on what they requested in 2025 and to give a scorecard of what has been achieved,” he said.

    George disclosed that the state had attained over 80 per cent budget performance so far in 2025, both in revenue generation and expenditure.

    According to him, Lagos is optimistic about meeting its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target for the year.

     “We are building on the gains of 2025. Our IGR is growing and as of August–September, we have hit about 80 per cent of our target. Last year, we met our IGR target and we are confident that 2025 will follow the same path,” he added.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    The Permanent Secretary noted that the state is investing heavily in infrastructure, but also prioritising social protection, healthcare, education, and agriculture.

    He said the state’s agribusiness initiative, Lagos Produce, would be expanded to ensure food security.

    Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, raised concerns over the rising rate of drug abuse among young people in Lagos.

    Describing the menace as a “pandemic,” Ogunlende said the ministry had established a special department under the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASCADA) programme to tackle the crisis.

     “At the moment, our rehabilitation centres are full. Drug abuse is something we see on our streets and in our homes. At least 35 per cent of our youths are dependent on substances,” he stated.

    He noted that the state was working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), private institutions, and civil society groups to provide advocacy, rehabilitation, and rescue services, while urging communities to take ownership of the fight against drug abuse.

    The consultative forum, which runs from September 9–16, 2025, will be held across the state’s divisions, with participation from traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil society organisations, trade groups, persons with disabilities, and youths.

  • APC rakes in N120m from sale of Ekiti governorship forms

    APC rakes in N120m from sale of Ekiti governorship forms

    • Oyebanji returns nomination, expression of interest forms today

    All Progressives Congress (APC) has raked in N120 million from the sale of nomination and expression of interest forms to four aspirants jostling for the party’s ticket in the October 27 shadow election.

    The aspirants are the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, whose forms were purchased by members of Ekiti State University Alumni Association, led by Dipo Bamisheyi, an engineer; and human rights activist and politician, Abimbola Olajumoke.

    A delegation of APC stakeholders led by the pioneer Ekiti State House of Assembly Speaker, Kolawole Adeyemi, secured the forms for Kayode Ojo, the pro-chancellor of  University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), while Mrs. Omolayo Oluremi completes the pack of aspirants.

    Sources within the Finance Directorate of the party at Muhammadu Buhari House – APC national headquarters in Abuja, yesterday said the party realised N50 million each from the two male aspirants, while the female aspirants coughed out N10 million each.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    Each of them paid N40 million for nomination form, while N10 million went for the expression of interest form.

    In line with the party’s policy of ensuring inclusivity for women, the party waived payment for nomination form for the female aspirants, but they are to pay the mandatory N10 military expression of interest form.

    The sale of nomination and expression of interest forms for the governorship position closed on September 2, while the last day for submission of completed forms, and accompanying documents is fixed for tomorrow.

    The party will conduct its primary election on October 27.

    Governor Oyebanji, who was the first to obtain the forms, is expected to be the first to submit his nomination and expression of interest forms to the party’s Organising department today by 2pm.

    A large, fully air-conditioned tent hall has been mounted at the party’s headquarters at Blantrye Street, Wuse 2, Abuja for the ceremony.

    Sources close to the governor said he would be accompanied by major stakeholders in the state to submit the forms ahead of the party’s primary election slated for next month.

    Those expected on Oyebanji’s entourage include members of the executive council, traditional rulers, religious and student leaders, market women and artisans.

  • Court bars IG, Akiolu, others from arresting Oloja-elect

    Court bars IG, Akiolu, others from arresting Oloja-elect

    The Federal High Court in Lagos has granted an injunction restraining security agencies, including the Police, from harassing or unlawfully arresting the Oloja-elect of Lagos, Prince Abiola Olojo Kosoko, pending the determination of a substantive suit.

    The order, granted by Justice Musa Kakaki, followed an ex-parte motion by Prince Kosoko through his legal team led by Chief A. S. Abimbola.

    Others affected by the court injunction in the suit are the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Assistant Inspector General of Police (Zone II, Onikan, Lagos), Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Adamu Bello Muhammed, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Mariam Ogunmolasuyi, Inspector Ebere, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos, and Olumegbon Ajah Chieftaincy Family Property and Investments Company Limited, a subsidiary of Olumegbon Royal Family.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    The interim order restrains the respondents and their agents from “harassing, attempting to arrest, inviting, detaining, or unlawfully interfering with or violating the applicant’s right to personal liberty, dignity of the human person, and fair hearing as enshrined in Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)”, until the substantive motion is heard and determined.

    Justice Kakaki said the protection of constitutional rights was paramount and must not be infringed upon, especially during an ongoing legal dispute over a traditional leadership position.

    The case stemmed from an alleged conflict surrounding the succession and recognition of the Oloja of Lagos, a key chieftaincy title within the Lagos royal hierarchy.

    Prince Kosoko, a descendant of the Kosoko royal family, claimed he has been subjected to intimidation and threats since his emergence as Oloja-elect.

    In his affidavit, Prince Kosoko alleged that certain individuals and groups, with the support of security agencies, were attempting to undermine his position and forcefully prevent his recognition.

    The court adjourned the matter till tomorrow for the hearing of the motion on notice, while directing that hearing notices be served on the first to fifth and seventh respondents.

  • Abiru urges constituents to participate in CVR

    Abiru urges constituents to participate in CVR

    The lawmaker representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru, has urged eligible residents of the district, who are yet to obtain Permanent Voter Cards (PVC), to take advantage of the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Abiru, in a statement in Lagos by his media aide, Enitan Olukotun, said registering to vote was not only a civic responsibility, but also the most effective way for citizens to have a voice in shaping the future of the country.

    “Democracy thrives when citizens participate in the electoral process,” Abiru said, adding: “The ongoing voter registration provides an opportunity for first-time voters, those who have changed their residences, and others who need to update their records, to ensure they can exercise their right to vote in forthcoming elections. I urge eligible residents of Lagos East, Lagos State and across the country, to come out en masse and register.”

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    The lawmaker reminded residents that a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) remained the only legal instrument for voting in Nigeria and encouraged community leaders, youth organisations, religious institutions and civil society groups across the senatorial district to mobilise their members for the exercise.

    “Your PVC is your power. It is the tool through which you can hold leaders accountable and influence governance outcomes. Let us not waste this opportunity,” he said.

    Abiru said his office would collaborate with stakeholders to ensure Lagos East residents were sensitised during the registration.”

  • Plans for second edition of Ikogosi Marathon Race unveiled

    Plans for second edition of Ikogosi Marathon Race unveiled

    Ekiti State Government, in collaboration with Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, has announced plans for the second edition of Ikogosi 17.5km Marathon race scheduled for November 8.

    It described it as a major event designed to promote fitness, attract investments and showcase the state’s natural endowment.

    Speaking at a news conference in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Technical Advisor on Sports Development, Dr Olusola Osetoba, restated his administration’s commitment to sports and tourism development as a key driver of economic growth and youth engagement.

    He says Ikogosi race goes beyond competition, as it provides a platform to promote healthy living, while placing the state on the global sporting map.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

    According to the organisers, the 27.5km marathon will feature over 5,000 athletes and participants through scenic routes of Ilawe, with the finishing point at the iconic Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, Ikogosi-Ekiti.

    While assuring that his government would continue to partner with relevant stakeholders to make Ekiti a sports and tourism hub and describing the event as more than just a competition, but a celebration of resilience, unity and excellence that reflects Ekiti spirit, the governor urged residents to welcome visitors warmly and showcase the state’s culture, values and peaceful atmosphere.

    The initiator of Ikogosi Marathon, Mr. Femi Abegunde, who commended Governor Oyebanji for his steadfast commitment to sports development in the state, noted that the governor’s consistent support for sports and youth development, particularly the marathon reflects a broader vision to use athletics not just as a recreation, but as a strategic platform for youth empowerment, economic growth and state branding.

    He said the governor’s leadership was gradually transforming the state into a vibrant destination for sports tourism in Nigeria.

    He also hailed the state government’s partnership with the organisers, noting that the collaboration would give greater visibility and credibility to the second edition of the race.

    He said Ikogosi Marathon was conceived to combine the thrill of athletics with the beauty of Ekiti tourism attraction, particularly the world-famous warm springs, thereby positioning the state as a leading destination for sports in Nigeria.

    Abegunde said registration for the 2025 edition of Ikogosi 27.5km marathon is free for all Ekiti indigenes until November and can be completed via the official website, www.ikogosimarathon.com.

    He outlined the prize structure for the race, with elite winners set to receive N2 million, N1.5 million, and N1 million for first, second and third places, while indigenous athletes will be awarded prizes ranging from N1.5 million to N50,000 for the top six positions.

    Also speaking, the Director General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Amb. Wale Ojo-Lanre, who described the marathon as a strategic event that aligns with the government’s vision of using tourism and sports as tools for economic growth, noted that hosting such an event would not only attract visitors to the state, but also stimulate business activities for hoteliers, transporters, artisans and other service providers in the tourism value chain.

  • Osun 2026: Hussein joins governorship race

    Osun 2026: Hussein joins governorship race

    Senator Mudashiru Hussein, who represented Osun West District, has joined the 2026 governorship race in the All Progressives Congress (APC). He promised to unseat Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    Hussein declared his interest yesterday at the Osun APC state secretariat in Osogbo, in the presence of thousands of his supporters across the state.

    Addressing the party’s executives led by its chairman, he said he was the most experienced aspirant among the 13 contenders, having served in public offices.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    Hussein said: ‘’I’m the most experienced aspirant among the contenders in APC. We are all qualified, but I have served in more public offices compared to the others. I have served as a lawmaker in the House of Representatives for eight years, senator representing a district in Osun State for four years, acting Secretary to the State Government (SSG). I also served as Federal Commissioner for National Population Commission (NPC).

    “I am from Ejigbo, which is a big community in Osun West. The current governor is from Ede. I defeated his elder brother in the past and I can do it again if I am given APC ticket in 2026.”

    However, he expressed readiness to work for the party if he did not emerge as its standard-bearer, noting: ‘’The party’s interest supersedes my ambition.’’

  • Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo get kudos for reforms, others

    Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo get kudos for reforms, others

    The BTO Renewed Hope Media Team has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for  “bold, transformative reforms that are repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    In a statement, the team noted that since assuming office, President Tinubu had demonstrated “exceptional courage and visionary leadership” through policies that were reshaping the nation’s economic, infrastructural and institutional landscape.

    It highlighted key reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange windows, the administration’s repayment of the $3.4 billion COVID-19 IMF loan and the N100 billion Sovereign Sukuk Loan, describing the steps as evidence of responsible economic management.

    The Media Team also praised the Ministry of Interior under the leadership of  Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his “transformative contributions” to effective governance.

    READ ALSO; Open letter to the Northeast Development Commission

     It praised the ministry for clearing a backlog of 204,332 passports within just three weeks, while restoring  citizens’ confidence in government service delivery.

    “Dr. Tunji-Ojo has redefined efficiency and innovation in public service,” the statement said. “His leadership has not only eased the burden on Nigerians seeking passports, but has also repositioned the Ministry of Interior as a model of modern governance.”

    The team also lauded  the minister for spearheading an unprecedented transformation of Nigeria’s correctional system.

    “Under his dynamic leadership, correctional centres—once seen merely as punitive spaces for punishment and social exclusion—are being repositioned as hubs of reformation, rehabilitation and empowerment. The recent inauguration of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Special Study Centre at the Abakaliki Correctional Centre, Ebonyi State, marks a significant milestone in these far-reaching reforms, offering inmates the rare opportunity to pursue quality education and rebuild their lives.

    ‘’In line with the minister’s vision, correctional centres are no longer to be viewed as places where society condemns and abandons its offenders, but as platforms for personal transformation and national reintegration,” it said.

  • Ex-lawmakers seek police protection

    Ex-lawmakers seek police protection

    Former lawmakers in Oyo State, under the aegis of Oyo State Progressives Ex-Parliamentarians, have urged Inspector General of Police and other security agents to provide protection for a member of Oyo State House of Assembly, Ibraheem Shittu, representing Saki West State Constituency.

    They said the step became necessary to protect the lawmaker from being attacked by politicians, who were not happy with him for exposing the N300 billion loan purported approved by the assembly for Governor Seyi Makinde.

    The ex-legislators include Sikiru Alli, John Olaleru, former Speakers of the assembly; Olagunju Ojo, Asimiyu Alarape,

    Mogaji Adigun, Ahmed Murphy, Elder Adegboyega Abioye, Fatai Salaam, Afeez Adeleke, D. A. Lawal, Dr. Mathew Oyedokun, Hazmat Ogunsola, a member from the Third Republic, Mrs. Ramata Okemakinde and others.

    Speaking at an emergency meeting in Ibadan, the Chairman of the forum, Ibrahim Bolomope, said they were constrained to address the matter because of the concern of the loan to the people of Oyo State, particularly Shittu.

    READ ALSO: Of envy and short memory in Ekiti politics

    He said: “We members of Oyo State Progressives Ex-Parliamentarians consisting of former members of Oyo State House of Assembly have met and deliberated on the revelation made by  Shittu Ibrahim representing Saki West State Constituency.

    “We looked into the fact of the matter, its merit and demerit and came to the conclusion that we have to applaud Shittu for representing the state very well, not just his own constituency. As former lawmakers, we know the House of Assembly can approve loans for the executive, but when they are doing that they must follow the rules of the game.

    “In this instance, the house cannot sit and approve loan for the governor without having a two third majority of members of the assembly at the sitting for fiscal matters or in some instances, at least they must have a simple majority of the members of the house.

    “Now, our concern and from our experience as former lawmakers, when somebody comes out to reveal the truth, especially in our environment where truth is difficult to get by, anybody that says the truth is prone to danger.

    “This is the reason we call on the Inspector General of Police and other sister security agents to provide security for our brother and colleague, Shittu and others that share a similar view with him in the assembly.

    “We believe if this is done, security agencies would have proved to Nigerians that people that have information that will expose the ills and corruption in the society that will assist the common man will have the courage to come out and inform the public.”

  • Oyo approves over N113bn for roads, infrastructure projects

    Oyo approves over N113bn for roads, infrastructure projects

    Oyo State Government on Tuesday approved another batch of road projects to the tune of over N113billion,l to be funded from the N300billion loan recently approved by the House of Assembly. 

    The approvals were given at the weekly State Executive Council meeting at the Exco Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State. 

    Briefing the press shortly after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works and Public Transport, Mojeed Mogbonjubola said the new approvals covers both new and ongoing projects across various parts of the state.

    He gave the approved road projects and the cost to include the: Asphaltic Reconstruction/Rehabilitation of 13.6km Ojoo Interchange-IITA-Moniya Junction Akinyele Interchange with Spurs to New Oyo Expressway, Ibadan at a cost of N63,611,154,690.82K

    Others are: Continuity of Thermoplastic road marking, kerbs painting and limited patching on state roads in Ibadan metropolis through direct labour intervention of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to the tune of N444,796,631.50. The first tranch, according to the Commissioner i covers from SDP- All Motors and Airport Road with its adjoining road.

    He further stated that the dualisation of 6.2km Ajia Junction (Ibadan/Ife Interchange) to Nigeria Air Force Base Base Road was also approved at a cost of N17,187,255,757.07k. 

    Also, the approved project include: reconstruction and rehabilitation of Okaka Junction – Otu Igbojaye – KAP Village Road (30km) and Construction of Bridges over Otu and Ofiki rivers at a cost of N26,482,664,312.33k

    Additionally, the expansion of scope of work on the reconstruction/rehabilitation of Apete – Awotan -Akufo Road (12km) and rigid pavement construction of Akufo Farm Settlement Road (2.2km) at a cost of N1,935,629,520.32K was approved by the Council.

    Read Also: South Africa vs. Nigeria: Chukwueze, Nwabali  sure of Super  Eagles’ win

    The Asphaltic construction of Isaba-Ogundoyin Road, Eruwa (0.75km) and Lanlate Garage Junction – Local Government Junction – Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic Oke Ola Junction Road, Eruwa (1.90km) was also approved to a tune of N4,146,068,573.56K.

    The government also approved the planting of economic trees along both sides of 32km Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Circular Road (Phase 1) for a cost of N108,044, 103.50K.

    Mogbonjubola also disclosed that the Council at the meeting also approved the sum of N110million for the camping and gosting of the Under-20 Female National Football Team in preparation for the Women’s World Cup Qualifying match between Nigeria and Rwanda in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    He however assured that the approved projects would be completed within the next 12 to 18 months to help enhance socio-economic investment of the state.

    Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, while reiterating the state commitment to improving endearing legacies, said the 35,000 tree seedlings have been funded to be planted around the Tech-U Junction-Badeku Area of first segment of the Ibadan Circular Road to help increase oxygenation and environmental beauty on the road.

    Speaking on the recently approved N300bn loan which is raising dust, especially from the opposition APC, the Commissioner said not a single “fresh loan” but rather comprises two components with a part to be used to refinance an existing loan facility, aiming to replace an older, more expensive loan with a new facility on better terms, thereby reducing the state’s repayment burden.

    He said, the other part is to finance some of the the newly approved road projects amongst others.