The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Tunji-Ojo

  • APC chieftain hails Tunji-Ojo’s role as Ondo marks 50th anniversary

    APC chieftain hails Tunji-Ojo’s role as Ondo marks 50th anniversary

    As Ondo State celebrates its golden jubilee, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Otunba Agboola Kelly, has highlighted what he described as the contributions of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to the state’s growing national and international profile.

    Kelly, who is the Coordinator of the Ondo APC Elders Movement for Tinubu 2027, in a statement, described Tunji-Ojo as an illustrious son of the state whose performance in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet has drawn attention within and outside the country.

    Read Also: U20 WWC Qualifier: Nigeria walk tight rope as Ifeanyi’s goal lifts Falconets over Senegal

    Kelly said the minister has distinguished himself in the Renewed Hope administration, particularly through reforms in the Ministry of Interior.

    According to him, Tunji-Ojo has introduced innovations, digital reforms and improved efficiency in key services, including passport processing.

    He added that the minister’s approach to leadership has attracted recognition and reflected positively on the state.

    Kelly urged the people of Ondo State and Nigerians generally to continue supporting the minister, expressing confidence that his leadership would deliver further benefits.

  • Ex-Ondo lawmakers laud Tunji-Ojo’s performance

    Ex-Ondo lawmakers laud Tunji-Ojo’s performance

    The Ondo state house of assembly forum, a body comprising former lawmakers, has praised the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, over his dedication to the second-term agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    Speaking in Akure, the Ondo state capital, Otunba Olumide Araoyinbo, the coordinator of the group, said the former lawmakers are happy with the zeal and sense of purpose of the minister.

    Araoyinbo, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former majority leader of Ondo state house of assembly, said the former lawmakers are proud of the achievements of the minister, particularly on President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The ex-lawmakers urged the minister to remain focused, undistracted and to continue to maintain the results-driven governance style of the ruling party.

    They noted that Tunji-Ojo’s approach to governance has redefined public service and rekindled the hope of Nigerians in their leaders.

    “The Ministry of Interior under Tunji-Ojo’s leadership has recorded significant reforms in the last two years. The success of the ministry in the areas of passport administration, digital innovation, and citizens’ service delivery has helped to restore public confidence in a sector that was once regarded as very lethargic and inefficient,” the ex-lawmakers said.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s recognition by Trump a diplomatic win for Nigeria — Oshiomhole

    The forum called on all well-meaning indigenes of the state, particularly members of the APC, to join hands with the minister in his determined efforts to ensure total peace and unity in the state chapter of APC ahead of 2027.

    “His contributions to strengthening the APC’s structure across the state cannot be ignored. We all should work with him and other leaders in ensuring a resounding victory for the president and our beloved party in 2027.”

    The ex-lawmakers also commended the minister’s commitment to the service of the people and ensuring a better life for everyone, as well as ensuring that President Tinubu continues to deliver his promises of a new Nigeria beyond 2027.

    “The minister’s commitment to President Tinubu’s second-term bid is one backed by sure-footed and decisive actions. Because of his actions, the opposition camps are depleted every day in Ondo State. His welfare programs, which do not leave anyone out is putting smiles on the faces of the people.”

  • Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    Ondo @50: Tunji-Ojo urges unity, backs Tinubu for 2027

    Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has called on the people of Ondo State to remain united and patriotic, while urging sustained support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consolidate the gains of his administration ahead of 2027.

    Tunji-Ojo spoke at the Akure Airport shortly after arriving in the state for the grand finale of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State.

    He said the golden jubilee celebration was not only a time to celebrate but also an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey, the sacrifices of its founding leaders, and the need for citizens to support purposeful leadership at both state and federal levels.

    The minister, who arrived in the state alongside the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande, and Hon. Ife Ehindero, representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said President Tinubu’s administration was laying a solid foundation for national renewal through bold economic reforms, improved security architecture, institutional strengthening, and economic restructuring.

    According to him, continuity and collective support are essential for the reforms to translate into long-term national prosperity.

    Read Also: Ondo @50: Ogunjobi hails Aiyedatiwa, lauds founding fathers

    “Democracy delivers best when the people remain patient, supportive, and united behind visionary leadership,” he said.

    Tunji-Ojo added that 2027 should be seen as a period of consolidation rather than a distraction to secure a better future for the next generation.

    The minister also lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the people of Ondo State on the historic milestone, praising their resilience, unity, and commitment to democratic ideals over the past five decades.

    He described Ondo as a major contributor to national development.

    Also present were Hon. Otito Atikase of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC); Dr. Ayodeji Ologun, AMG Director of Communications; Corporal Nana Opri, AMG Secretary; Senator Yele Omogunwa, Chairman, Leaders Council.

    Others are: Dr. Lawrence Ibukun, Deputy Chairman (Central); Barrister Pelemo Ade-Samuel, Legal Adviser; Mrs. Yetunde Adeyanju, State Woman Coordinator, and other political leaders.

  • Tunji-Ojo as ambassador of Ondo @50

    Tunji-Ojo as ambassador of Ondo @50

    • By Femi Salako

    Sir: Ondo State at 50 offers a profound opportunity to reflect not only on the journey of the state since its creation but also on the calibre of men and women it continues to produce. The Golden Jubilee is a celebration of identity resilience and contribution to the Nigerian project. Central to this reflection are illustrious sons and daughters of the soil who in this present generation are projecting the state with dignity competence and honour at both national and international levels. Among this distinguished cohort stands the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji Ojo whose public service record and current national impact epitomise the enduring value of Ondo State to Nigeria.

    His foray into national politics as a member of the House of Representatives marked the beginning of a legislative career defined by intellectual depth, policy focus and people oriented representation. As a lawmaker, he was not content with mere presence but pursued substance, engaging robustly in debates advancing motions and supporting legislative interventions that addressed national development, economic inclusion, youth empowerment and institutional reform. In doing so he earned the respect of colleagues and observers alike and positioned himself as one of the most effective lawmakers of his generation.

    His legislative excellence naturally placed him in the national spotlight and when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unveiled the Renewed Hope Agenda, he was among those considered capable of translating vision into action. Answering the call to serve as Minister of Interior, Tunji Ojo brought to the ministry a blend of academic rigour, technological insight, and administrative clarity that has since redefined its operations. His is a clear departure from business as usual as he prioritised efficiency accountability and service delivery across agencies under the ministry.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Obasanjo, Mimiko, Fasoranti, others bag Ondo golden jubilee awards

    Under his leadership the Ministry of Interior has recorded notable improvements particularly in the administration of citizenship services. Long standing challenges associated with passport issuance delays and bureaucratic bottlenecks have been confronted through digitisation process reengineering and stricter oversight. These reforms have had far reaching effects especially for Nigerians in the diaspora who directly experience the outcomes of improved systems. Across Europe, North America, Asia and other parts of the world, Nigerians now speak positively of reforms linked to his tenure acknowledging the professionalism and responsiveness that have returned to critical services. This international affirmation has not only elevated Nigeria’s image but has also projected Ondo State as a source of visionary leadership.

    As Ondo State celebrates 50 years of existence, his achievements resonate as part of a larger narrative of excellence that defines the state. He stands as a reference point and inspiration to other Ondo State sons and daughters who are excelling across governance, law, medicine, academia, technology, entrepreneurship and the creative industries. Together they affirm that Ondo at 50 is better stronger and more relevant because of the quality of its human capital. Their collective impact underscores the truth that the greatness of a state is measured not only by its geography or resources but by the character competence and commitment of its people.

    Ondo State at 50 therefore is a celebration of legacy and promise. It is a reminder that from its towns villages and institutions continue to emerge leaders who shape national conversations and influence global perceptions. In celebrating Olubunmi Tunji Ojo, the state celebrates itself a land that produces thinkers, reformers and patriots who serve with distinction. As the Sunshine State steps into its next half century the example of leaders like him assures all that the future remains bright grounded in service excellence and an unyielding commitment to national progress.

    •Femi Salako,

    Lagos.

  • APC chieftain hail Tunji-Ojo as Tinubu’s ‘star performer’

    APC chieftain hail Tunji-Ojo as Tinubu’s ‘star performer’

    A leading figure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State and Coordinator of the Ondo APC Elders Movement for Tinubu in 2027, Otunba Agboola Kelly, has described the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo as an invaluable asset and one of the most outstanding performers in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.

    Otunba Kelly hailed Dr. Tunji-Ojo fondly known as BTO as God-given illustrious son of Ondo State, whose visionary leadership has earned widespread admiration both within Nigeria and on the global stage.

    “BTO has truly revolutionised the Ministry of Interior,”

    “His appointment is a clear testament to his exceptional capabilities, and he remains our pride not just in Ondo State, but across Nigeria

    Read Also: Individuals must file tax returns by March 31, employers, January 31 – Oyedele

    Since taking office, the minister has driven sweeping transformations aligned with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    These impactful changes, which gained momentum from 2023 onward, have delivered measurable results enhancing governance, fortifying security architecture, and building greater public confidence in the administration.

    He stressed that Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s unwavering commitment to excellence and results-oriented approach has positioned him as a cornerstone of the Tinubu administration.

    His stellar performance is not only inspiring nationwide support but also serving as a powerful catalyst for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

    In Ondo State, the APC Elders Movement continues to expand its influence and membership, with the minister’s leadership providing tremendous momentum and motivation.

    “He is fueling optimism and reinforcing belief in the government’s capacity to drive meaningful, lasting progress for our nation.”

  • Forum lauds Tunji-Ojo’s commitment to elders

    Forum lauds Tunji-Ojo’s commitment to elders

    Members of the PBAT Mandate Elders’ Forum have hailed Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for his leadership style.

    They described as inspiring the minister’s compassionate leadership, sustained support, and commitment to the welfare of the elderly, particularly in Ondo State.

    Members of the group spoke when the minister hosted them in his Abuja office.

    Their spokesman, Erastus Akeju, described Tunji-Ojo’s support as consistent, thoughtful, and unprecedented.

    He said the minister has significantly improved the wellbeing of members since the forum was established.

    Akeju is the group’s chairman.

    The visit brought together elders, community leaders, and political stakeholders who reflected on governance, national leadership and the enduring relevance of elders in nation-building.

    Akeju said Tunji-Ojo has remained steadfast from monthly financial and medical interventions to moral encouragement.

    He said: “His support has brought relief, restored dignity and rekindled hope among our members. The Christmas and New Year support was historic in Ondo State and deeply reassuring to elders who have served society in their productive years.”

    Read Also: Shettima in Davos: Nigeria reframes food security as macro-stability strategy

    The group’s Secretary, Ebenezer Alabi, said the minister’s actions reflected deep respect for elders and a values-driven approach to leadership that goes beyond politics.

    The forum’s facilitator, Demola Ijabiyi, reaffirmed the group’s loyalty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and its readiness to mobilise elders and their followers across Ondo State ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Tunji-Ojo thanked the elders, describing them as custodians of wisdom, institutional memory, and moral authority in society.

    He said: “These are people who have paid their dues. They are like a board of trustees, a reservoir of knowledge and wisdom. We can only tap from them and learn from them because they have so much to offer. Their experience is our asset.”

    The minister assured the forum of his continued commitment to their welfare and to inclusive governance driven by service to the people.

    Tunji-Ojo emphasised the importance of collaboration between generations, stressing that sustainable national development can only be achieved when the wisdom of elders complements the energy of younger leaders.

  • NYCN to honour Akpabio, Abbas, Tunji-Ojo, Uzodimma, others today

    NYCN to honour Akpabio, Abbas, Tunji-Ojo, Uzodimma, others today

    The National Youth Congress of Nigeria (NYCN) has unveiled its 2025 list of honorees.

    The national youths’ body has named eight distinguished Nigerians as the ‘Outstanding Personalities’ of the year.

    Those listed for the awards include Senate President Godswill Akpabio; House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas; Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.

    Others are: Governors Ahmed Ododo (Kogi) Mohammed Umaru Bago (Niger); Senator Basheer Lado, and Judith Ogbara.

    In a statement on the grand ceremony scheduled for today, the NYCN emphasised that the awards were not routine accolades but the result of a rigorous, independent selection process conducted only once a year.

    It said the awards are reserved exclusively for leaders who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and measurable impact during the award period.

    The NYCN dubbed the awards as the “2025 Hall of Fame: Icons of Excellence”.

    The organisers said the awardees were selected for their visionary governance, legislative excellence, and people-centred reforms.

    Read Also: Yuletide: Lagos Police deploys 5,000 traffic officers, intensifies surveillance

    While Akpabio is recognised as an Icon of Parliamentary Excellence and Uncommon Leadership for his stabilising role in the National Assembly, Speaker Abbas is to be honoured as an Icon of Legislative Excellence and Leadership for his transformative legislative agenda.

    Bago is distinguished as the Best Governor in Agriculture and Empowerment for his landmark ‘Green Economy’ initiatives; Ododo is named Best Governor in Security and Youth Emancipation for his proactive safety measures and youth-focused governance.

    Uzodimma is to be awarded Best Governor in National Development for his strategic contributions to national integration; Senator Lado, (Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters) is named an Icon of Legislative Prudence and Top-Notch Service Delivery for his mastery of executive-legislative synergy; Tunji-Ojo is recognised as the Outstanding Minister of the Year for his revolutionary reforms in internal security and passport processing, and Ogbara (Chairperson, GEEEEP) is singled out for honour as the Outstanding Female Emancipator of the Year for her tireless advocacy for girls and women development.

    According to the NYCN, the awards serve to celebrate those whose contributions align with Nigeria’s developmental priorities and offer sustainable solutions to national challenges.

    “We do not confer these honours lightly,” said a spokesperson for the congress, Babangida Onimisi Isah.

    “By recognising these outstanding personalities of the year, we are setting a benchmark for integrity and performance. Each recipient has delivered tangible results that directly improve the lives of Nigerians, particularly the youth.”

  • NANS hails Tunji-Ojo over easy passport processing for students in diaspora

    NANS hails Tunji-Ojo over easy passport processing for students in diaspora

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for what it described as it’s outstanding efforts in ensuring easy passport processing for Nigerian students in diaspora. 

    NANS said the gesture has brought immense relief and joy to the students who have been facing difficulties in obtaining their passports.

    A statement by NANS Senate President, Comrade Usman Adamu Nagwaza commended the Minister for his dedication and commitment towards serving Nigerians, particularly students who are the future leaders of the country. 

    According to him, the minister’s efforts will go a long way in promoting welfare and interests of Nigerian students globally.

    “As the mother student body in the country, we are made proud to say that the easy passport processing has come at a time when Nigerian students in the diaspora are facing numerous challenges, including travel restrictions, visa denials, and other logistical issues. 

    “The minister’s intervention has provided a glimmer of hope for these students, we are using this medium to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide additional support and backup to the minister to enable him to continue his good work.

    “The association believes that with the president’s support, the minister can achieve even more in promoting the welfare of Nigerian students and citizens, and this way, other public servants will be inspired to follow suit in delivering their jobs effectively.

    “We are proud to associate with Honorable Bunmi Tunmi-Ojo and we highly salute his functionality. His dedication to serving the people and his commitment to making a positive impact on our lives has informed our confidence that the minister’s efforts will contribute to the growth and development of Nigeria. 

    “More-so, we are committed to working with the minister and the government to promote the welfare and interests of Nigerian students and citizens as we strongly believe that together, we can achieve great things and make Nigeria a better place for all.”

    He urged all Nigerian students in diaspora to take advantage of the easy passport processing to obtain their passports and pursue their academic and professional goals without any hindrance.

  • NCSCN lauds interior minister over transparent recruitment into paramilitary agencies

    NCSCN lauds interior minister over transparent recruitment into paramilitary agencies

    The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has commended the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for what it described as a transparent, innovative, and largely seamless 2025 recruitment exercise conducted across Nigeria’s paramilitary agencies.

    The commendation was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by Mazi Oscar David Kalu and Alhaji Gambo Suleiman Jagindi after the fourth quarter end of the year meeting of the council.

    The Civil Society body praised the Federal Ministry of Interior and its agencies, the Civil Defence, Correctional Service, Fire and Immigration Services, and others for deploying a centralised, technology-driven recruitment process that resulted in a relatively seamless and credible outcome.

    According to NCSCN, the use of a unified online portal, public release of shortlisted candidates, and repeated warnings against recruitment fraud significantly reduced manipulation and restored public confidence in government hiring processes.

    “The 2025 recruitment exercise reflects the Minister’s commitment to accountability and institutional reform. Despite the magnitude of work and inevitable technical challenges, the Minister’s prompt interventions ensured fairness, transparency, and protection of applicants’ data,” the communiqué read in part. 

    The Council noted that the 2025 recruitment exercise attracted nationwide interest and large application volumes, placing significant demands on the portal and the boards administering the exercise. 

    The Council further noted that the minister’s hands-on leadership, including swift directives to resolve portal glitches and ensure full data upload, demonstrated political will to safeguard the integrity of the exercise.

    NCSCN, in the communiqué, urged the Ministry to consolidate on the gains recorded by institutionalising the digital recruitment framework, conducting an after-action review, and strengthening public awareness, via enhanced media and civil society engagements, to curb the activities of fraudsters targeting job seekers.

    The Council reaffirmed its support for reforms within the interior sector, stressing that transparent recruitment remains critical to building professional, accountable, and people-oriented security architecture.

  • Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    Tunji-Ojo: Nigeria’s future depends on unity, national renewal

    …praises President Tinubu for reforms 

    The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has stated that Nigeria’s future will be determined by the nation’s unity, institutional reforms, and the renewed spirit of its citizens.

    He made the remarks while receiving an Award of Excellence in Public Service from Obafemi Awolowo University on Friday evening at the OAU Oduduwa Hall in Ile-Ife.

    According to a statement by his media aide, Babatunde Alao, Tunji-Ojo described the award as carrying significance beyond personal recognition, emphasizing that it reinforced his belief that Nigeria is progressing through the strength of collective resolve.

    He added that national renewal is no longer merely an aspiration but a journey sustained by courage, faith, and shared responsibility.

    “Let me affirm what I believe with all my heart, Nigeria is Rising, not because our challenges have disappeared, but because our resolve is stronger than ever. 

    “Not because the path is smooth, but because our collective will refuses to bend, hence this award encourages us to continue on the path of national renewal with renewed faith, courage and hope.

    “I remain convinced that Nigeria is moving steadily towards a stronger, more resilient future,”Tunji-Ojo said.

    He used the platform to reflect on key reforms he has undertaken since assuming office in 2023.

    Tunji-Ojo explained that the automation of passport processes and backlog clearance have improved border management and enhanced professionalism in the Nigeria Immigration Service.

    He praised President Bola Tinubu for providing the framework for institutional transformation through the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing the President’s vision as a mandate for efficiency, compassion and national confidence.

    While addressing students of the institution, Tunji-Ojo said that he still has strong belief that Nigerian youth remained the most powerful asset of the country.

    “You are the keepers of the future. Your ideas, courage, conviction and curiosity will determine the direction of our nation. 

    He charged the students to not allow the hardships of today blur their vision of the Nigeria they want to build, while citing Nelson Mandela’s assertion that education is the most powerful weapon for change.

    Tunji-Ojo dedicated the award to young Nigerians, civil servants, his family, and President Tinubu, whose commitment to reform according to him, continues to energise national renewal.

    He further expressed gratitude to OAU leadership for upholding a tradition of intellectual integrity and national service. 

    The Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Adebayo Simeon Bamire, described the minister as an ambassador of the University who has demonstrated through his performance at various leadership levels that he is ready to provide solutions.

    “We commend the minister of Interior, Hon. Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for providing effective services and strategic leadership across the nation. 

    “He is a good ambassador of this university,” he said.