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Tinubu, Obasanjo, Mimiko, Fasoranti, others bag Ondo golden jubilee awards

President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, and other eminent sons and daughters of Ondo state have been honoured with special awards as part of activities marking the state’s 50th anniversary.

They were honoured at the Gala and Award Night alongside elder statesman and foremost leader of the Pan-Yoruba social political group, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Oba Olu Falae, and 67 distinguished personalities for their contributions to the growth and development of the Sunshine State and the country.

The Gala and Award Night, held at the International Centre for Culture and Events (The Dome), Akure, climaxed the day’s celebrations for the golden jubilee.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the event as a night of legacy, excellence, and recognition of service, noting that the awards reflected the collective sacrifices and achievements recorded by the state in the last five decades.

“The daytime celebrations at the Ondo State Sports Complex captured the mass spirit of our people and renewed our determination for a more prosperous state.

“Tonight is devoted to honouring those whose lives have brought distinction to Ondo State and contributed meaningfully to national development,” he added.

The governor said the awards were not ceremonial tokens but expressions of gratitude to individuals whose discipline, character, and sustained service had strengthened institutions and inspired progress.

Read Also: We won’t lose focus on governance despite our situation, says Fubara

According to him, the anniversary should not only celebrate the past but also provide direction for the future through stronger institutions, economic diversification, social cohesion, and greater opportunities for young people.

Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to Mimiko, Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami; former deputy governors Omolade Oluwateru, Ali Olanusi, Lasisi Oluboyo, and Alfred Agboola Ajayi; Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Justices Olusegun Odusola and Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju; Major Gen. Olu Bajowa (retd.); Vice Admiral Akintunde Aduwo; Oba Falae; and music legend King Sunny Ade.

Other honourees included Chief Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, Engr. Bernard Aliu, Prof. Oluyinka Olutoye, Rt. Hon. Jumoke Akindele, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oloyelogun, Mrs Mobalaji Osomo, High Chief Johnson Fagbemi, Asiwaju Oluyemi Ogunyemi, Dr Amos Akingba, Chief Michael Ade Ojo, Engr. Emmanuel Adewunmi, Prof. Anthony Adegulugbe, Pa Oyekan Arije, Engr. Funsho Kupolokun, Chief Sunday Ehindero, Chief Joseph Sanusi, Chief Solomon Oladunni, Chief Pius Akinyelure, AVM Kola Ademuwagun, Oba Samuel Egunjobi, and Madam Winifred Adefolahan Awosika, among others.

Posthumous honours were also conferred on late leaders who made significant impacts on the state and the nation, including former Head of State Gen. Murtala Mohammed; former governors Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Bamidele Olumilua, Adebayo Adefarati, Olusegun Agagu, and Rotimi Akeredolu; jurists Justices Akinola Aguda and Gladys Olateru-Olagbegi; rights activist Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN); Pastor T.B. Joshua; and several senior military officers.

In his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government and Chairman of the Golden Jubilee Committee, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, said Ondo State had witnessed a remarkable transformation in infrastructure and human capital development since its creation.

Also speaking, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Adewusi, commended the governor and his wife for their leadership and support for the anniversary activities.

Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Kayode Ajulo, SAN, said the jubilee focused on youth engagement, disclosing that an essay competition for young people aged 20 to 25 attracted 118 entries within five days, with 10 shortlisted and three selected for prizes.

He, however, added that a formal charter would be signed by key state officials and sealed as a covenant to guide Ondo State’s development over the next 20 years.

February 4, 2026
Why Tinubu approved Southeast Investment Company – Shettima

…VP launches Vision 2050 blueprint for region, says Ndigbo are central to Nigeria’s future

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Wednesday unveiled a 25-year development blueprint for the South East, declaring the region a vital pillar of Nigeria’s economic future.

This is just as Shettima announced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the South East Investment Company Limited to accelerate the transformation of the region.

He disclosed this while launching the Southeast Vision 2050 at the Regional Stakeholders’ Forum held in Enugu, describing the initiative as a deliberate shift from short-term governance to structured, long-term regional planning.

According to him, the newly approved South East Investment Company Limited will mobilise funds from the diaspora, capital markets and development finance institutions, working in synergy with the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to close post-war infrastructure gaps and strengthen regional competitiveness.

“This forum reflects foresight, responsibility and a shared understanding that the future is not something we wait for, but something we must deliberately design,” the Vice President said.

He explained that the approval of the investment company was informed by the Southeast’s distinctive entrepreneurial culture, expansive global diaspora and historic engagement with international capital.

“In recognition of the distinctive character of the Southeast, its entrepreneurial spirit and its global reach, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the establishment of the South East Investment Company Limited,” Shettima stated.

The Vice President stressed that the SEDC was established to drive structural transformation rather than routine bureaucracy, insisting that Nigeria thrives best when its regions are empowered to prosper.

“Let me be clear: this is not another layer of bureaucracy. It is a delivery institution focused on tangible outcomes—jobs, productivity and growth,” he said, noting that the region’s historical challenges make intentional planning both urgent and necessary.

Shettima commended the inclusive composition of the forum, which brought together federal and state governments, traditional rulers, private sector leaders, civil society, youth groups and development partners.

He also acknowledged the participation of Umu Igbo Unite, a United States-based network of over 10,000 young professionals, emphasising the role of the diaspora in shaping the region’s future.

“The future of the Southeast will be built both at home and abroad—together,” he said.

Addressing young people, the Vice President stressed that development must translate into visible improvements in daily life.

“You are not spectators in our national journey. You are central to it. Development must not remain an abstract promise; it must be felt in the lives of our people,” he added.

Enugu State Governor, Dr Peter Mbah, alongside his counterparts, endorsed the Vision 2050 framework, describing it as an opportunity for the Southeast to align with the national development agenda, Vision 2060.

Mbah applauded the growing unity among leaders and stakeholders in the region and proposed the creation of a Southeast common market, describing the moment as the reawakening of an economic giant.

He urged a paradigm shift in development planning and project execution, while calling on the people of the region to complement the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to security and inclusive growth.

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, pledged his administration’s support for the implementation of the Vision 2050 plan, saying it would help close unemployment and poverty gaps while unlocking the region’s vast economic potential.

Similarly, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, expressed satisfaction over the unanimous adoption of the vision, describing the forum as a turning point in the economic revolution of the Southeast.

Governor Otti said with transparent leadership and effective execution, the region’s industrialisation and economic transformation were both realistic and achievable.

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, thanked President Tinubu for creating the SEDC, describing it as a long-awaited intervention for the region.

Read Also: Shettima commissions Tudun Biri resettlement scheme

He noted that the Vision 2050 conversation was historic, marking the first time leaders across the Southeast had jointly adopted a common framework to guide regional development.

In a keynote address, the UNDP Resident Representative, Mrs Elsie Attafuah, highlighted global lessons in long-term regional planning, stressing the importance of strong institutions and sustainable execution.

She emphasised that infrastructure development must support domestic production if genuine industrialisation is to be achieved.

Minister of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh, described the forum as a milestone in fostering a united and prosperous Southeast, noting that the creation of the SEDC reflects President Tinubu’s commitment to coordinated regional development.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, pledged her ministry’s support for the Vision 2050 programme and announced a nationwide trade facilitation tour aimed at boosting export potential, describing the Southeast as Nigeria’s industrial springboard.

In a goodwill message, President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, commended the Federal Government for prioritising regional integration and pledged the support of Ndigbo for the Vision 2050 and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking on behalf of corporate Nigeria, UBA Group Managing Director, Mr Oliver Alawuba, identified peace as the most critical incentive for investment, noting that funding naturally follows stability.

He called for sustained infrastructure development—particularly in power and rail—saying the SEDC could play a catalytic role, adding that corporate Nigeria is ready to fund bankable projects through public-private partnerships.

Chairman of the SEDC, Sir Emeka Wogu, thanked President Tinubu for his commitment to the Southeast, describing Vision 2050 as a unique framework designed to ensure continuity and synergy among the states.

Managing Director of the SEDC, Mr Mark Okoye, said the commission would partner with state governments, the diaspora and the organised private sector to implement the vision, focusing on infrastructure, power, peace-building and regional connectivity.

The forum also featured goodwill messages from corporate organisations, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, faith-based bodies, youth groups, diaspora representatives and development partners.

The Vice President, accompanied by Southeast governors and other dignitaries, later toured an exhibition gallery mounted by the National Council for Arts and Culture.

February 4, 2026
Alleged cyberstalking: Court rejects Sowore’s documents in trial on false claim against Tinubu

…frowns at report of live streaming of proceedings

A Federal High Court in Abuja in two rulings on Wednesday rejected two sets of documents tendered by politician and online publisher, Omoyele Sowore in his ongoing trial on cyberstalking charge.

Sowore is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly making false claim against the person of Present Bola Tinubu by referring to him as a criminal in a post he made on his “X” and Facebook accounts.

In the first ruling on Wednesday, Justice Mohammed Umar declined an oral application by Sowore’s lawyer, Marshall Abubakar that a set of documents, comprising print outs of publications, be admitted in evidence.

The publications include media reports about DSS’ dismissal of 115 officials for misconduct, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charging five ex-governors with corruption, EFCC’s sacking 27 of its officials over fraud and misconduct and EFCC’s arrest of some ex-staff of the NNPCL over N7.2billion fraud.

In the ruling, Justice Umar agreed with prosecuting lawyer, Akinlolu Kehinde (SAN) that the best opportunity for the defendant to tender the documents is during the conduct of his defence.

The judge held that since the first prosecution witness (PW1) being cross-examined by Abubakar said he knew nothing about the publications contained in the documents, such documents could not be tendered through the witness.

“You cannot tender a document through a witness who said he did not know anything about it.

The document is marked as rejected,” Justice Umar said.

In the second ruling, the judge rejected another set of documents which comprised of print outs of publications which Abubakar claimed showed that President Bola Tinubu had in 2011 called then President Goodluck Jonathan a drunkard and sinking fisherman, and also called former President Olusegun Obasanjo an expired meat.

The judge marked the documents rejected for the same reason he gave in rejecting the first set of documents.

Justice Umar frowned at the report by the prosecuting lawyer that a member of the defence team had live streamed previous proceedings in the case and urged the court to order an investigation to identify the person behind it.

Although Abubakar denied that any member of the defence team was involved and claimed that it could have been done by the DSS or people in the presidency, the judge said such conduct amounted to contempt of court.

Abubakar urged the court to only caution against a repeat of such incident, but to decline the request by the prosecuting lawyer that an investigation be ordered by the court.

Justice Umar said it was easy to identify the person behind the incident and that he could direct security agencies to investigate the issue because it was a serious matter.

Although the judge promised to address the issue at the end of the day’s proceedings, he however, remained silent on it when adjourning the case.

While being cross-examined, PW2, Cyril Nosike (an official of the DSS) said as at the time Sowore made the post in respect of which he is being prosecuted, President Tinubu’s official X (twitter) handle was @officialABAT

The witness rejected Abubakar’s suggestion that the President’s official X handle is @PBAT.

Nosike said he did not tender any court judgment before the court to show that corruption has ended in Nigeria.

On whether there is corruption in Nigeria, the witness said he is not a politician and cannot make comment on such an issue, adding that the defence lawyer was merely asking for his opinion, saying: “I am not here to give my an opinion, but to state the facts.”

He faulted claim by Abubakar that the DSS dismissed 115 of its officials for corruption, explaining that they were dismissed after internal investigation and not because of corruption as claimed by the defence lawyer.

The witness denied knowing that in 2025 the EFCC charge five ex-governor to court because of corruption; that the EFCC arrested ex-staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) over N7.2billion fraud and that the EFCC dismissed 27 of its officers for fraud and misconduct.

On whether as a security officer he is aware of global corruption ranking, witness said he is not aware of global corruption ranking. He also said he is not aware of the Transparency International corruption index.

The witness equally said he is not aware that Nigeria is ranked 140 among the 180 countries captured in the global corruption index.

On whether he knows that as at 2011, the current president was a major opposition figure in the country, witness said he did not know.

On whether he is aware the in 2011 the current president called then President Goodluck Jonathan corrupt and shameless, the witness said he is not aware.

Nosike also said he is not aware that the current President called Jonathan a drunkard and a sinking fisherman.

On whether he knows former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the witness said yes. He however said

he is unaware that President Tinubu called ex-President Obasanjo an expired meat.

The witness said he would be surprised if shown documents where Tinubu allegedly made such comments about the two former presidents.

When asked if he has heard of the name Femi Fani Kayode, who is now an ambassador designate, the witness said yes, but added that he could not recall that Fani Kayode was a vocal critic of the President before his nomination as ambassador.

Nosike denied knowledge of the claim by Abubakar that Fani Kayode made a post on social media alleging that President Tinubu knew something about the death of Funso Williams, who was a governorship candidate in Lagos State.

The witness said he is not aware that the DSS screened Fani Kayode as an ambassador designate because that did not form part of his schedule.

Nosike said he could not recall that Funso Williams was murdered in Lagos while President Tinubu was the governor of the state.

He admitted knowing Chief Reno Omokri and confirmed that Omokri is an ambassador designate, appointed by this government.

The witness said he is not aware of Omokri’s social media post claiming that Tinubu knows about the murder of Funso Williams, adding that he has not come across videos of Omokri saying Tinubu knows about Funso Williams’ murder.

Read Also: ‘Why we charged Sowore over false claim against Tinubu,’ by DSS

The witness said he is not aware that Omokri staged a protest against President Tinubu in London claiming that he (the President) was involved in drug trafficking and knew about Funso Williams’ murder.

After spending one hour and 40 minutes on the cross examination of the PW1, Justice Umar asked Abubakar when he was going to conclude with the witness having cross-examined him for two days.

Abubakar prayed the court for one more day l, claiming he has more important questions and documents to confront the witness with.

Responding Kehinde recalled that Abubakar had, on the last date, sought for additional one hour to conclude, but has spent one hour and 40 minutes and yet claimed he was not done with the witness.

Kehinde said he would prefer to allow the judge decide whether or not to grant the adjournment being sought by the defence.

Ruling, Justice Umar noted that this is the second day the defence has been cross examining the PW1.

The judge added that although on the last date, Abubakar sought for one hour, he has spent one hour and 40 minutes and has again asked for additional date.

He, however, granted the adjornment sought by the defence, saying: “In the spirit of fairness, I will adjourn for the last time for cross examination,” and proceeded to adjourn till March 5 for further cross examination.

February 4, 2026
Tinubu congratulates Kestin Pondi on birthday

…hails Niger Delta leader’s role in peace-building, youth empowerment

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to Kestin Ebimorbowei Pondi, Managing Director of Tantita Security Services and the Ibe Benimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Engr. Pondi as a distinguished personality whose life and career exemplify service, enterprise and a deep commitment to community development, particularly in the Niger Delta.

President Tinubu noted that Pondi’s leadership and contributions to economic growth, youth empowerment and peace-building efforts in the region have earned him widespread respect and admiration among stakeholders and community leaders.

The President also acknowledged Pondi’s consistent support for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of his people and strengthening national cohesion, stressing that his patriotic zeal and constructive engagement continue to make meaningful contributions to the stability and progress of the Niger Delta and the country at large.

According to the statement, President Tinubu said Engr. Pondi’s efforts reflect a strong sense of responsibility to both his kingdom and the Nigerian state, describing him as a bridge between local aspirations and national development objectives.

The President wished the celebrant good health, wisdom and renewed strength, praying that the years ahead would be marked by greater accomplishments in service to Gbaramatu Kingdom and Nigeria.

February 4, 2026
Tinubu hails Prof. Olupona at 75

…salutes scholar’s global impact on African religious, cultural studies

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated renowned Nigerian scholar, Jacob Kehinde Olupona, on his 75th birthday, celebrating his decades-long contributions to African religious studies and global scholarship.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Professor Olupona as a distinguished academic whose career reflects the resilience, brilliance and global competitiveness of Nigerians, noting that his journey from Nigerian and American universities to leadership roles at Harvard University stands as a testament to intellectual excellence.

Professor Olupona, a recipient of the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM), is a Professor of African Religious Traditions and Chair of the Department of African and African American Studies at Harvard University in the United States.

President Tinubu recalled his academic path through institutions such as Boston University and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, describing it as emblematic of Nigeria’s enduring contribution to global knowledge.

The President acknowledged Olupona’s “peerless contributions” to the study of African traditional religions, culture and sociology, noting that his extensive research and teaching have helped position African knowledge systems prominently within global intellectual discourse.

According to President Tinubu, Professor Olupona has served as a vital bridge between Nigeria and the wider academic world, using scholarship to deepen international understanding of Africa’s spiritual and social traditions.

“Professor Olupona’s scholarship has challenged stereotypes and provided the world with a deeper and broader understanding of our rich spiritual and social traditions.

“He is not just a pride to Nigeria, but a beacon of excellence for the entire African continent”, the President said.

President Tinubu wished the celebrated scholar good health, renewed strength, wisdom and continued brilliance as he marks the milestone age.

February 4, 2026
Toyin Abraham slams online critics over photos with Tinubu

Actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has responded to social media users who attempted to shame her after photos of her with President Bola Tinubu went viral, warning that those attacking her without cause will be publicly exposed.

Abraham, on X, stated she has screenshots and videos of confessions from people who tried to drag her online, insisting that as long as she serves God and her hands are clean, anyone who attempts to disgrace her will be put to shame.

She added that she has forgiven those who targeted her, but made it clear that the truth will come out.

The actress made the fresh submission in response to a social media user who hinted that statements against her were sponsored.

Read Also: NFC congratulates Toyin Abraham on ‘Oversabi Aunty’ N1bn milestone

The X user, identified as @mariolexxx, wrote, “The moment Toyin Aimaku’s pictures with Tinubu was drop in the group, they told us to ask her for every comment section that ‘Wetin Tinubu tell you.”

“Meself wey be mumu that time, I no allow Eni eleni to rest, any post from her, I don rush ask her. “Wetin Tinubu tell you.

In response, Toyin wrote, “Even this recent one they munch everything to me that they said they should all call me Alabosi, but guess what, except I don’t serve a living GOD and my hands are not clean, will they not be put to shame.

“Anyone born from a woman through natural or cs birth that collected money to shame or drag me without doing anything, I say it again and loud, except I don’t serve GOD and except my hands aren’t clean, trust me on this, they will all be put to public shame.

“All the telegram and WhatsApp screenshots I have and videos of real confessions.”

February 4, 2026
Northern group rallies support for Tinubu’s reforms, spotlights youth, education, health gains

Kaduna witnessed a convergence of civic voices on Wednesday as the Arewa Political Awareness Movement (APAM) hosted a public sensitization programme on key government policies and reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Asaa Pyramid Hotel.

Convener of APAM, Jabir T. Usman, said the forum was designed to replace rumours with facts and deepen citizens’ understanding of governance, insisting that democracy thrives when people are informed and actively engaged.

He said within two and a half years in office, the Tinubu administration had recorded measurable progress across education, healthcare, agriculture, security, infrastructure, and the economy, urging Nigerians to assess leadership by impact rather than rhetoric.

Usman identified the National Education Loan Fund (NELFund) as a landmark intervention that now allows children from poor and middle-income homes to access tertiary education without financial barriers, describing it as a breakthrough in Nigeria’s education system.

He also cited the new pension policy granting retired university professors earnings equivalent to their annual salary and the establishment of new federal universities of health and sciences in Kachia, Azare, Tsafe, and Funtua as steps to restore dignity to teaching and expand access to quality education.

According to him, the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme is equipping youths with skills in data science, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing, positioning them for opportunities in the global digital economy.

In the health sector, Usman pointed to the restructuring of the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS), expansion of cancer treatment centres, revitalization of over 1,000 primary healthcare centers, and increased health insurance coverage as evidence of people-centred policies.

He said the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development and the ₦130 billion injection into the National Agricultural Development Fund were aimed at boosting food production, modernizing animal husbandry, and reducing farmer-herder conflicts.

On security, the APAM convener credited improved coordination among security agencies under the direction of the National Security Adviser for recent gains against banditry and insurgency in the North-West and North-East, enabling displaced communities to begin returning home.

He added that fiscal and monetary reforms, including exchange rate stabilization, increased federal allocations to states and the push for local government autonomy, were intended to bring development closer to the grassroots and stimulate economic growth.

Speaking on youth empowerment, Hon. Mukhtar Zubairu said the future of Nigeria depended on whether young people were equipped with skills and opportunities, warning that neglect could turn a demographic advantage into a social risk.

Zubairu highlighted federal initiatives such as 3MTT and the NIYA programme, alongside Kaduna State’s K-YEEP, vocational centres, digital hubs, and Youth Advisory Council, as examples of how leadership at different levels can create an enabling environment for youths.

He stressed that non-governmental organizations play a crucial “last-mile” role by reaching vulnerable groups, providing mentorship, and complementing government efforts through community trust, innovation, and accountability.

In a presentation on education reforms, Anas Halliru said the Renewed Hope Agenda had repositioned education as human capital investment through frameworks such as DOTS and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI), major investments in medical education, solar power for tertiary institutions, and sustained dialogue that has brought relative stability to universities, describing the reforms as “education in motion” for national development.

February 4, 2026
Monarch backs Tinubu’s re-election

The traditional ruler of Dopemuland in Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State, High Chief Shuaib Afogunlowo, has urged Nigerians to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to enable him complete his eight- year in office, in order to turn the country around.

He said things were getting better under the current administration in the areas of economy, security, infrastructures, investment, foreign exchange and political development.

The monarch added that with the development, more governors and political bigwigs across the country have defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to ensure the party wins at the centre and in their states in 2027.

READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

He admonished Dopemu community and Lagos State residents to support Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu and Chairman of Agege Local Government, Abdulganiy Vinod Obasa, in the ongoing transformation recorded in the state.

February 4, 2026
Tinubu, Oyebanji hail Ondo’s developmental strides

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed Ondo State for its remarkable and consistent development over the past 50 years, describing the state as a shining example of steady growth and purposeful leadership.

Speaking yesterday at a colourful ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State in Akure, President Tinubu said Ondo had demonstrated strong dedication to the advancement of democracy and progress, especially in education, infrastructure and human capital development, adding that the state’s growth trajectory remained a source of pride to the country.

The President, represented by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji- Ojo, spoke just as Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, and former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, praised the resilience, unity and commitment of the people of the state, noting that the state had recoded significant achievements across sectors since its creation in 1976.

The President said: “As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ondo State, I hold the people of Ondo State with very high regards. I recognise the resilience, industrial and civic responsibility of Ondo people.

READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

“During the last national election, the people of Ondo State demonstrated remarkable participation, discipline and commitment to democratic ideals. Your engagements strengthen the nation’s democracy and reinforce our belief in purposeful leadership. I deeply appreciate your support and I assure all citizens of Ondo State that my administration remains commuted to serving Nigerians equitably”.

Governor Oyebanji, who congratulated the government and people of Ondo State for sustaining the vision of its founding fathers, acknowledged the state’s consistency in delivering meaningful development, stressing that Ondo had continued to play a vital role in the socio-economic advancement of the Southwest and Nigeria as a whole.

The governor noted that the progress recorded by Ondo State served as motivation for other states to remain committed to policies and programmes that enhanced the welfare and well-being of their citizens.

“I bring greetings from your brothers and sisters in Ekiti State. We started this journey together 50 years ago, but 29 years ago we left and we are so grateful to God that Ondo is going up and up and good things are happening in Ondo State. We are so proud of the development strides Ondo State has achieved.” the governor said.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu and other dignitaries for joining the state in celebrating its golden jubilee, described the 50th anniversary as a significant milestone that reflects the sacrifices, vision and collective efforts of the founding fathers and successive administrations that have contributed to the growth and transformation of the state.

He also commended the people of Ondo State for their enduring unity, resilience and support for government initiatives over the years and urged them to continue to work together in peace and harmony, assuring the citizens that his administration remained focused on building a more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable future for the state.

Noting that Ondo State has made remarkable progress in critical sectors such as education, health care, infrastructure, agriculture and industrial development, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining policies and programmes that would further improve the standard of living of residents, attract investments and create opportunities for economic prosperity across the state.

It is recalled that Ondo State, like Ogun and Oyo states, was created from the old Western State, when the country embraced the 19-state structure in 1976. Ekiti State was carved out of the old Ondo State on October 1, 1996.

February 4, 2026
Our policies have secured $8 billion FIDs in oil, gas sector, says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu yesterday said his administration has strengthened the oil and gas sector to secure a Final Investment Decisions (FIDs) surpassing $8 billion in offshore gas developments from global energy firms.

He said the torrent of direct investments into the sector revived strongly because of regulatory certainty and fiscal reforms.

Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima, stated this yesterday while declaring open the 9th edition of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES) at the Banquet Hall, State House, in Abuja.

He said: “The sector secured final investment decisions exceeding $8 billion, including major offshore gas developments involving global energy companies. The outpouring of direct investment into the oil and gas sector rebounded strongly, driven by regulatory certainty, fiscal reforms and improved operational guidelines and conditions.”

He said domestic gas supply exceeded two billion cubic feet per day for the first time, strengthening power generation, industrial utilisation and energy access.

READ ALSO: Retreat on improving polytechnic education

Export volumes, according to him, increased alongside sustained expansion of gas processing and transportation infrastructure, reinforcing Nigeria’s role in regional and global gas markets.

Tinubu reminded the stakeholders that on his assumption of office in 2023, the sector was only rich in potential, but weighed down by inefficiencies, uncertainty and underinvestment.

“When this administration assumed the mantle of leadership in May 2023, we inherited an energy sector rich in potential, yet constrained by inefficiencies, uncertainty, and prolonged underinvestment. We set to work without panicking, guided by the clear understanding that energy cannot be treated simply as an economic commodity if stability is our goal. Energy is a catalyst for national security, industrial growth, social inclusion, and regional cooperation,” he said.

Tinubu said under his administration, the upstream activity recorded a historic rebound, recounts growth from eight weeks in 2021 to 69 weeks by late 2025, reflecting renewed exploration and building momentum

The Federal Government, he said, has also introduced a broad executive order on oil and gas investment enabling to unlock up to $10 billion in capital inflows, streamline project approvals, reduce bureaucratic delays and position Nigeria as a prepared investment destination.

He recalled that in 2025, the administration introduced the Upstream Petroleum Operations Cost Efficiency Incentives Order, providing tax credits of up to 20 per cent to promote cost efficiency, enhanced competitiveness, and deepened Nigerian participation.

Tinubu also noted that as a direct result of the reforms the government has introduced, Nigeria’s average crude oil production improved to approximately 1.6 million barrels per day.

The administration, he said, consolidated its role as a live wire of sector reform and strengthened regulatory institutions to ensure clarity of goals, transparency and investor competitiveness.

He added that the country introduced fully digital, transparent, and competitive licensing rounds to the upstream sector, widely regarded as among the most credible bidding processes in our history.

On the 2025 bid round, he said: “In furtherance of this objective, we approved the commencement of the 2025 licensing round, creating new investment windows and enabling additional crude oil and gas production capacity.”

He said Nigeria’s refining landscape entered a new era with the commencement of local operations and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, significantly enhancing domestic supply of refined petroleum products.

The president said modular and indigenous refineries advanced under supportive regulatory frameworks, diversifying national refining capacity. On the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL refineries, he said: “Rehabilitation of state-owned refineries also gained renewed momentum, with operational stability and efficiency remaining a primary focus.”

He added that the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) recorded strong and consistent revenue performance, surpassing annual targets and fiscal sustainability.

In similar vein, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri said the renewed confidence has culminated in the huge FIDs inflows into the sector.

He said: “International confidence has also returned: Shell’s $5 billion Bonga North project, and TotalEnergies’ $550 million Ubeta project marks Nigeria’s first major FIDs in over a decade. This was followed by Shell’s $2 billion HI project and the $1.8million cumulative spent by Chevron in their Panther project.

“Only recently, the global CEO of Shell announced their commitment to taking a $20 billion FID, with several other FID lined up to be announced in this year and in the coming year.

“In 2025 alone, 28 new field development plans worth $18.2 billion were signed, with potentials of 1.4 billion barrels of oil daily.

“Between 2024 and 2025, of the seven major FIDs announced across Africa, four were in Nigeria. This did not happen by accident, it is the result of steady work, policy clarity, and better governance. These are not rhetorics but proof that Nigeria is once again a magnet for serious business.”

In his remarks, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive (Officer) Bashir Ojulari, an engineer, revealed that the firm has planned to expand the Escravos Lagos Pipeline Line (ESPL) this year.

He said: “Our recent achievements reflect this momentum. The presentation of the NNPC Gas Master Plan last week and the remarkable progress of our strategic gas infrastructure projects, the OB3 and the AKK pipeline and we are moving forward this year to also expand the ELPS pipeline, and the regional pipelines to their projects signal a new era of mining discipline, infrastructure development, and long-term commitments. These projects are more than a pipeline.”

NNPCL, according to him, is nurturing a new generation of professionals grounded in accountability, performance excellence and national service.

He said the strategic shifts, under the leadership of President Tinubu, is positioning Nigeria in a global competitive investment destination, from fiscal stability to policy liberalisation and security improvement.

February 4, 2026