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Showing posts from January, 2026

Education Remains a Pillar of Development, Says Abiodun; Donates ₦2 Million to Overall Best Graduating Student of OOU

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Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State — Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed that education remains a cornerstone of his administration’s developmental agenda, emphasizing continued investment in the sector as essential for securing the state’s future. The Governor made the statement during the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), held at the institution’s permanent site in Ago-Iwoye. The event was particularly significant as it coincided with Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, with Governor Abiodun noting that the university stands proudly among the legacies of this defining milestone in the state’s history. Represented at the ceremony by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun lauded OOU for producing competent, innovative, and future-ready graduates while upholding high standards of discipline, innovation, and service. He commended the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Toyin Ashiru, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, and mem...

WHO IS AFRAID OF SENATOR ABDULFATAI OMOTAYO BUHARI?

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By Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq. This question is germane. It deserves to be asked, examined, processed, and properly dissected. There is no doubt that Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari has become one of the defining ornaments of contemporary Oyo State politics. His presence, consistency, and political weight have long shaped conversations beyond the routine. However, what has truly unsettled the political firmament in Oyo State is not merely his stature, but his clarity of purpose. The atmosphere changed palpably the moment Senator Buhari publicly announced that he was not returning to the Senate, but was instead coming home—to seek the mandate of the people as Governor of Oyo State. That declaration did not land softly. It landed with force. Since then, the political space has been gripped by visible unease, manifest anxiety, and quiet panic among many politicians—most of whom lack ideological spine or governing depth. His declaration introduced an uncomfortable heat. It forced comparison...

Abiodun Commissions Roads in Ijebu-Ode, Clears Air on Ogun Oil Exploration

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Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has cautioned against attempts to create division among residents of Tongegi Island and across the state over ongoing oil exploration activities in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area. The governor gave the warning while commissioning the Abeokuta–Obalende and Osinubi New Roads in Ijebu-Ode, where he clarified that the oil drilling exercise is being carried out by the Federal Government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and not by the Ogun State Government. Abiodun explained that although hydrocarbon deposits have been identified in parts of Ogun Waterside, including Tongegi Island, their commercial viability is yet to be established. He dismissed claims that funds meant for oil exploration had been diverted, describing such allegations as misleading and politically motivated. According to the governor, the discovery followed reports of crude-like substances seeping from the ground, which prompted tec...

U.S. and Nigeria Forge Stronger Trade Ties Through New Investment Partnership

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The United States and Nigeria have taken a significant step to deepen commercial relations with the U.S.-Nigeria Commercial and Investment Partnership (CIP), a five-year initiative aimed at boosting trade, investment, and private sector growth. The partnership was highlighted at a ministerial meeting in Lagos co-chaired by U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for the U.S. Commercial Service Bradley McKinney and Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole. The meeting brought together government officials and private sector leaders to review proposed reforms from the CIP Working Groups on Agriculture, Digital Economy, and Infrastructure. The Working Groups presented strategies intended to improve the business environment, ease trade barriers, and attract investment. McKinney described the proposals as practical measures that could strengthen bilateral trade and create new economic opportunities for both nations. Oduwole emphasized Nigeria’s commitment...

FG, Ogun Formalise TASUED Takeover, Sign MoU at 17th Convocation

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The Ogun State Government and the Federal Government have formally sealed the transfer of the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, to federal ownership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU was signed by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during the institution’s 17th Convocation Ceremony held at the university campus in Ijagun. The ceremony, which also featured the conferment of honorary degrees and presentation of prizes, officially marked the institution’s transition to a federal university, now known as Tai Solarin Federal University of Education. As part of the event, the university conferred an honorary Doctor of Science in Childhood Education (D.Sc. Ed, Honoris Causa) on the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. Former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, received an honorary Doctor of Scienc...

Hon. Olusola Fatoba: A Legislator Who Translates Vision into Impact

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In the realm of democratic representation, constituents expect more than words; they seek tangible results that transform lives, improve communities, and inspire hope.  For the people of Ado-Ekiti and Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency, that expectation has been consistently met and exceeded by Hon. Olusola Fatoba, a lawmaker whose tenure in the House of Representatives stands as a model of effective governance, responsive leadership, and purposeful service. Elected in 2019 as a first-time representative, Hon. Fatoba entered the National Assembly with a clear vision: to bridge the gap between legislative advocacy and grassroots development.  From the outset, he rejected the notion that holding office was an end in itself. Instead, he pursued a hands-on approach that combines robust legislative work with community-focused interventions, ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt directly by those who elected him. Legislative Excellence: Laws That Shape Li...

Akinlayo Kolawole’s Record of Service Fuels Growing Calls for Reelection in Ekiti North II

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As political discussions gradually intensify ahead of the next electoral cycle, residents of Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, comprising Moba, Ido-Osi and Ilejemeje Local Government Areas, are increasingly evaluating the performance of their representative at the National Assembly, Hon. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole.  Across communities within the constituency, his record of service has become a central topic, with many constituents openly expressing support for his reelection. Since assuming office as a Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Kolawole has established himself as a lawmaker whose approach to representation balances effective legislative engagement with sustained grassroots development.  Observers note that his tenure reflects a clear understanding of the dual responsibility of a federal legislator to contribute meaningfully to national policymaking while ensuring tangible benefits reach constituents at home. At the National Assembly, Hon. Kola...

Ogun Begins 50th Anniversary Celebration with Weekly Road Commissioning

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The Ogun State Government has commenced activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state with the weekly commissioning of major road projects across different parts of the state. The Golden Jubilee celebration began last week with the commissioning of the Wole Soyinka Train Terminal and the Sagamu–Ayepe Road in Sagamu Local Government Area. This was followed by the commissioning of Afon Palace Road in Imeko/Afon Local Government Area. As part of the ongoing activities, Governor Dapo Abiodun will on Friday, January 30, 2026, commission the Abeokuta–Obalende Road and the Osinubi New Town Road in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area. According to the state government in a statement  by Hon Kayode Akinmade,the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy,the road commissioning exercise is designed to showcase key infrastructure projects delivered across the three senatorial districts as part of the 50th anniversary celebration. Other programmes lined up to com...

ECOWAS Reports Resilient Growth and Major Regional Achievements in 2025

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The President of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Omar Touray on Thursday said the Commiswion has recorded notable economic, social, and institutional progress in 2025, despite global uncertainties and regional security challenges. Speaking at a meeting with development partners, Touray said the regional economy grew by 4.6 percent in 2025, up from 4.3 percent in 2024, with projections of 5.0 percent growth in 2026.  He noted that this performance reflects the implementation of structural reforms, increased fiscal discipline, and measures to strengthen key sectors such as extractive industries and trade.  Touray said the regional inflation also eased from 24.4 percent in 2024 to 16.8 percent in 2025, supported by coordinated monetary and fiscal policies. He highlighted improvements in budget management, with the regional deficit declining to 3.1 percent of GDP in 2025, adding that the debt-to-GDP ratio fell slightly to 45.7 percent.  He ...

LAGOS ASSEMBLY URGES COMMISSIONER OF INFORMATION TO ENLIGHTEN THE PUBLIC ON THE ONGOING DEMOLITION IN LAGOS

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  The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the State Government, through the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Mr Gbenga Omotosho to intensify public enlightenment on the ongoing demolition exercises across Lagos State in order to curb misinformation and ensure proper public understanding of government actions. This resolution followed a motion raised under Matters of Urgent Public Importance by Hon. Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I, during plenary at the hallowed chamber. Rising to address the House, Hon. Ogundipe expressed concern over what he described as a growing wave of publications and commentaries circulating in the public domain, particularly concerning developments in the Makoko area. According to him, such reports are laden with inaccuracies, distortions, and unverified allegations capable of misleading the public and unnecessarily heightening tension against the Lagos State Government. He stressed the need to...

PSC ELEVATES AIG ADEGBOYE TO DIG; CP ABOKI, CP DANSABO TO AIGs; 26,119 INSPECTORS TO ASP II.

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The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the elevation of one (1) DIG, two (2) AIGs and over twenty-six thousand Inspectors following its 3rd Plenary Meeting held today, Thursday, 29th January 2026. The Commission, under the chairmanship of DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), mni, ratified the promotion of Assistant Inspector-General of Police Funsho Adegboye, mni, to the rank of Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG). Furthermore, Commissioners of Police Danjuma Aboki and Dansabo Idi were promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG). Their promotions followed a rigorous and merit-based process, including successful written examinations and oral interviews conducted by the Commission. In a landmark decision reflecting its commitment to career progression, the Commission also approved the promotion of 26,119 Inspectors to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police II (ASP II). This promotion is based on their outstanding performance in the ...

Ogun, World Bank Invest Over ₦5bn in Women Empowerment, Economic Recovery — Abiodun

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…says State Electricity Distribution Company to boost power supply soon The Ogun State Government and the World Bank Group have jointly invested over ₦5 billion in women-focused empowerment and livelihood initiatives over the past six years, Governor Dapo Abiodun has disclosed. The governor made this known on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the World Bank Group, led by its Vice President, Ms. Galina Vincelette, at his office in Abeokuta. Governor Abiodun said the investment was deployed through the World Bank–supported Nigeria for Women Project (NFWP) and the state’s domesticated empowerment scheme, Oko’Owo Dapo, which was established after the success of the initial programme. According to him, the Nigeria for Women Project, implemented through Women Affinity Groups (WAGs), has significantly transformed the socio-economic lives of women across the state. “The programme has deepened financial inclusion, strengthened social cohesion, and equipped women with leade...

Bauchi Expands Health Partnerships to Tackle Diphtheria, Malnutrition, Records 95% Measles-Rubella Coverage

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Bauchi State Government has intensified collaboration with international health partners to curb the spread of diphtheria, address rising malnutrition cases and strengthen routine immunisation across the state. The Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Development Board, Dr. Rilwan Muhammad, disclosed this while briefing journalists on recent public health interventions and outcomes recorded by the state. He said Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has continued to play a key role in supporting Bauchi’s response to diphtheria following an increase in reported cases.  According to him, MSF initially operated a Diphtheria Treatment Centre at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital but later relocated due to pressure on space caused by rising admissions. Muhammad explained that the state government provided land within the Specialist Hospital premises, where MSF established a new treatment centre that has grown from an initial 40-bed capacity to 50 beds to meet i...

NSCDC Dismisses Claims of Withheld Promotion Arrears, Reaffirms Commitment to Personnel Welfare

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The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has refuted reports alleging that its leadership is responsible for the non-payment of promotion arrears and the diversion of funds meant for personnel welfare, describing the claims as false and misleading. In a statement issued on Thursday by the spokesman of the Corps, Afolabi Babawale, the Corps said the allegations, which surfaced on some online platforms on January 23, were deliberately crafted to misinform the public and undermine the credibility of the organisation and its leadership under the Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi. The NSCDC clarified that the payment of salary and promotion arrears does not fall under the control of the Corps or the Commandant General. According to the statement, such payments are handled by the Presidential Committee on Arrears, which is overseen by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation and the Accountant General of the Federation. Addressing claims...

North–South Dichotomy advocacy is a Betrayal of Nigeria — Gbenga Hashim Slams Tinubu’s Aides

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Presidential hopeful of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has condemned what he described as a deliberate attempt by aides of President Bola Tinubu to fracture Nigeria along regional and ethnic lines, warning that such rhetoric amounts to a betrayal of the Nigerian nation. Hashim said the renewed push for a North–South dichotomy by elements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is a desperate political diversion, aimed at shielding the Tinubu administration from scrutiny over worsening economic and governance outcomes. Reacting to a statement attributed to the Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Hashim described the strategy as “pedestrian, reckless, and fundamentally undermines  Nigeria's National  Security interest" “Dividing Nigeria along regional lines in order to escape accountability for governance failure is shameful and dangerous. It is a direct betrayal of the oath to defend the unity of the Federal Rep...

Lagos Court Sentenced Security Guard To Life Imprisonment For Raping A Nurse

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A security guard employed at Greensprings School in Lagos has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of raping a nurse in the school's clinic. A Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court in Ikeja, Lagos State, has sentenced Emmanuel Buchi, a security guard, to life imprisonment for the rape of a 37-year-old nurse at Greensprings School in Awoyaya, Ibeju-Lekki.  Justice Rahman Oshodi delivered the judgment on Wednesday, finding Buchi guilty of both rape and assault causing harm, stating that the Lagos State Government had proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt.  The incident occurred on November 27, 2021, in the school clinic during a night shift, where both Buchi and the victim were employed, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.  In his ruling, Justice Oshodi labeled Buchi a 'pathological liar,' noting that his defense fell apart under examination.  The judge remarked that Buchi displayed no remorse during the trial, maintaining t...

Raymond Dokpesi Jr. Announces Bid for BON Chairmanship, Calls for Industry Reforms

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Chairman of DAAR Communications Plc (owners of African Independent Television (AIT and Raypower Radio), Raymond Dokpesi Jr., has declared his intention to run for the Chairmanship of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), outlining plans to modernize the country’s broadcasting sector through regulatory reforms, industry support, and collaborative growth. Speaking at DAAR Communications’ headquarters in Abuja, Dokpesi Jr. described Nigeria’s broadcasting industry as being at a “critical crossroads,” facing economic pressures, digital disruption, and regulatory challenges.  He stressed the need for unity among broadcasters to ensure the sector’s sustainability. Dokpesi Jr. highlighted the importance of BON’s principle of rotational leadership, which he said ensures inclusivity and representation for public, private, cable, satellite, and emerging broadcasters. “Rotation gives all operators, regardless of size, a sense of belonging and a stake in the industry’s f...

How We Turned from Foes to Friends — Franco-German Envoys Share Lessons with Nigeria

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The Ambassadors of Germany and France to Nigeria have urged the country to draw lessons from decades of Franco-German cooperation, stressing that reconciliation, friendship, and shared responsibility are critical drivers of growth, stability, and regional integration. German Ambassador Annett Günther and French Ambassador Marc Fonbaustier made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during events marking the 63rd anniversary of German-French Day, which commemorates the signing of the Élysée Treaty on January 22, 1963. Speaking jointly, the envoys reflected on how France and Germany overcame centuries of rivalry and conflict to become close partners and allies after the Second World War.  They noted that the experience demonstrates that even the most hostile relationships can be transformed through sustained dialogue and political commitment. “The history of reconciliation and European unification shows that no matter how dark the past may seem, a different future is possible,” t...

Abiodun Commissions Imeko-Afon Township Road, Orders Immediate Reconstruction of Olorunda–Imeko Road

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Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday commissioned the Imeko-Afon Township Road and ordered the immediate reconstruction of the Olorunda–Imeko Road. The Imeko-Afon Township Road, originally constructed in 1959 by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was commissioned at a ceremony held in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area. Speaking at the event, Governor Abiodun said the decision to reconstruct the Olorunda–Imeko Road followed his personal experience while traveling on the road earlier in the day, describing its condition as deplorable. According to the governor, he immediately directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to prepare an estimate for the project and ensure that the road is advertised for bidding by qualified contractors. “I told the commissioner that the project must go to the next Executive Council meeting and that construction should begin immediately,” Abiodun said. The governor disclosed that his administration has constructed mo...

LAGOS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY REBUTS MISLEADING REPORTS ON MAKOKO PROTEST INCIDENT

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  The Lagos State House of Assembly has noted with concern a publication titled “Police teargas Makoko anti-demolition protesters at Lagos Assembly, arrest activist Hassan Soweto, others”, credited to Ishaya Ibrahim, which contains several inaccuracies, distortions, and unverified allegations capable of misleading the public and inflaming tensions. This rejoinder is issued to set the record straight in the interest of truth, public order, and responsible journalism.  *ASSEMBLY WAS ON RECESS; PROTESTERS WERE STILL ENGAGED*  Contrary to insinuations that lawmakers “watched” or ignored the situation, it must be clearly stated that the Lagos State House of Assembly was officially on recess at the time of the incident. Notwithstanding this, upon receiving information about the gathering at the Assembly gate, Hon. (Otunba) Ogundipe Stephen Olukayode, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, mobilised four other Honourable Members who were pre...

CDHR CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OF TAIWO HAZZAN SOWETO BY LAGOS STATE POLICE

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The Committee for the Defence of Human Right Lagos State Branch has demanded the  Immediate and unconditional  Release of Comrade Hassan Taiwo Soweto and Others protesters who were out there exercising their fundamental rights of association and expression to complaint and solidarise with all communities facing forceful eviction and displacement in Lagos State led by state machineries that are now using official and State power to grabb land in Lagos metropolis.  The CDHR in a press release issued on Wednesday by the chairman of Lagos Branch,Comrade Adewale Ojo described Comrade Hassan Taiwo Soweto, as a leading member of the Democratic Socialist Movement (DSM) and spokesperson of #EndBadGovernance Movement Lagos with other protesters was arrested today at the Lagos State House of Assembly after the police teargas and forcefully disperse them from the peaceful protest. This was at a protest against the unjust demolition and forced Eviction of Makoko, Oworonsho...

Obasanjo's Daughter,Senator Iyabo Joins APC in Ogun, Fuels Speculation on Political Ambitions

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 The daughter of former President President  of Nigeria,Olusegun Obasanjo and a former senator ,Iyabo Obasanjo Bello has officially registered as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC)   The registration took place at Igbesa village, Ibogun Ward 11 within the Ifo Local Government Area of the state. The high-profile defection has ignited intense speculation regarding her immediate political objectives. A source close to the former senator revealed to that she has been invited by key stakeholders within the party to contest for a major office in the upcoming elections. “She was invited to either fight for the governorship ticket or the senatorial ticket,” the confidential source stated. “The people behind this move are the same figures urging Senator Ibikunle Amosun to contest for the Ogun Central Senatorial District seat.” This development appears to be part of a broader realignment within the Ogun APC, which has been marked by internal dissent. T...