STRENGTHENING YOUTH DEVELOPMENT THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

STRENGTHENING YOUTH DEVELOPMENT THROUGH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS

The Agency for Youth Development, Oyo State, remains committed to fostering meaningful collaborations that empower young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s evolving world.

The Chairman of the Agency, Prince Adebowale Falana, had the pleasure of hosting Miss Bashrat Are ( Tarishab Era ), the visionary founder of Eráconnect (Ęràconneckt ), at the agency’s office. Eráconnect, a forward-thinking NGO, is dedicated to identifying and nurturing talents across multiple disciplines, equipping them with essential digital skills to compete in the global technology space.

Discussions focused on a shared vision of youth empowerment—creating sustainable pathways for skills acquisition, career growth, and innovation for young people in Oyo State and beyond. The agency recognizes the crucial role of partnerships in driving impactful change and is excited about the potential collaboration with Eráconnect.

This partnership holds great promise for fostering growth, innovation, and sustainable development within our community. The Agency for Youth Development, under the leadership of Prince Adebowale Falana, looks forward to working closely with Miss Bashrat Are and Eráconnect to ensure that Oyo youth are equipped with the tools they need to succeed.

Breaking: Six States, Stakeholders Declare Readiness for South West Games 2025

Breaking: Six States, Stakeholders Declare Readiness for South West Games 2025 

In a groundbreaking development for grassroots sports in Nigeria, all six Southwest states have officially declared their readiness to participate in the highly anticipated South West Games 2025 (SWG 2025). This unanimous commitment followed an intensive marathon meeting between state sports directors and event organizers, Practagali Partners, at The Colossus Lagos Conference Hall on February 7, 2025. 

The meeting, hailed as high-calibre and strategic, underscored the states' eagerness to ensure the maiden edition of SWG 2025 is a resounding success. The sports directors from Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti expressed satisfaction with the level of preparation by the organizers and pledged full participation in the tournament.

Adding to the excitement, the event will feature a premier sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BATSWAG), designed to showcase the region’s most talented under-18 athletes. With competitions spanning seven sports—football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, athletics, volleyball, and archery—the games promise to be a landmark event for youth sports development. The declaration of readiness from all participating states has set the stage for what is expected to be one of the most thrilling and transformative sporting events in the region’s history. The sports directors commended Practagali Partners for their meticulous planning and commitment to delivering a world-class tournament.

“We are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the South West Games 2025 surpasses expectations,” stated Funmilola Adedipe, Managing Director of Practagali Partners. “The overwhelming support and readiness from the state sports directors have further energized our resolve to execute a truly historic competition.” Victor Ganzallo, Director of Media for the Games, reinforced the broader significance of the event beyond competition. “This tournament is about legacy. It is about giving young athletes a sense of purpose, a platform to excel, and an opportunity to dream beyond their immediate environment. BATSWAG and SWG 2025 will serve as a vehicle for talent discovery and national sports development.”

The meeting laid the foundation for crucial agreements regarding the event’s structure, logistics, and execution. Initially, five sports were scheduled for the Games—football, basketball, table tennis, boxing, and athletics. However, after deliberations, volleyball was unanimously included, and stakeholders proposed the addition of archery, which was accepted as a state-coordinated event. The allocation of athletes per sport was agreed upon, ensuring a well-structured and inclusive tournament.

 Football will feature 18 male players with seven coaches, table tennis will include one male and one female player, boxing will have four male participants, while athletics will have four male and four female athletes. Basketball, volleyball, and archery will also see a mix of participants, reflecting the diversity of talent across the region.

To foster a strong regional identity, each state has chosen a distinctive color for their team jerseys: Ekiti will wear blue, Lagos red, Ogun yellow, Ondo green, Osun white, and Oyo burgundy. The designated venues for the games have also been finalized, with YABATECH Sports Complex hosting football and athletics, Teslim Balogun Stadium designated for table tennis, volleyball, boxing, and archery, while Rowe Park Sports Complex will be the venue for basketball. Participants will be accommodated at Faith Plaza and The Anglican House, both located in close proximity to competition venues.

The stakeholders also reached key resolutions regarding the event timeline and logistics. March 25 will mark the arrival of participants and a technical meeting, while the games will take place from March 26 to 28, culminating in the final match and closing ceremony. Departure is scheduled for March 29.

To ensure fair play, a modified screening model will be adopted to verify the age of participants, with each state overseeing its own selection process. Every participant will receive a certificate of participation, with gold, silver, and bronze medals awarded in various categories. An overall trophy will be presented to the top three performing states. A match-past ceremony featuring all participants will be held during the closing ceremony.

The enthusiastic feedback from all participating states and the strategic preparations by Practagali Partners signal a historic sporting event on the horizon. The Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, affirmed Lagos’ commitment to delivering an unforgettable experience. He said, “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering support for sports development is evident in our infrastructure and logistics readiness. Lagos is prepared, and with the collective backing of all Southwest states, SWG 2025 will be nothing short of spectacular.”

American Ambassador, Tinubu’s Minister Attends As State Governors Meet In Abuja

American Ambassador, Tinubu’s Minister Attends As State Governors Meet In Abuja

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) convened on Wednesday at its secretariat in Abuja for its first meeting of 2025.
Naija News reports that while the official agenda was not disclosed to journalists at the time of reporting, notable attendees included the American Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, and the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. Several governors, including those from Kwara, Lagos, Abia, and Ogun, along with some deputy governors, were also present.
At their previous meeting in January, the governors endorsed the Federal Government’s tax reform bills but suggested adjustments to the value-added tax (VAT) sharing formula. They proposed a revised distribution method: 50% based on equality, 30% on derivation, and 20% on population.
In a communiqué issued by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the forum emphasized maintaining economic stability: “Members agreed that there should be no increase in the VAT rate or reduction in Corporate Income Tax (CIT) at this time, to maintain economic stability.”
The governors also advocated for continued VAT exemptions on essential goods and agricultural produce to protect citizens’ welfare and boost agricultural productivity.
Additionally, the NGF recommended that development levies shared by the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND), the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), and the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) should not be subject to a terminal clause.
Despite ongoing debates over the tax reform bills, the governors reaffirmed their support for the legislative process, expressing confidence that the National Assembly would eventually pass the proposed reforms.
President Bola Tinubu had, last year, submitted four tax reform bills to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to approve them. These include the Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Tax Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board Establishment Bill. He also proposed repealing the law establishing the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and replacing it with the Nigeria Revenue Service.
However, the bills have faced strong opposition, particularly from northern governors and regional leaders who argue that the reforms are detrimental to their interests, with some labeling them anti-north.
President Tinubu, however, has remained firm, refusing to withdraw the bills. The presidency has assured Nigerians that the reforms are designed to improve national revenue management and enhance economic development rather than target any specific region.

Police Reveal Next Step As Portable Arrives Ogun Police Command Custody

Police Reveal Next Step As Portable Arrives Ogun Police Command Custody

Controversial Nigerian musician, Habeeb Okikiola, better known as Portable, is now in the custody of the Ogun State Police Command.
The development was confirmed in a statement on Wednesday by the spokesperson of the Ogun Police Command, Omolola Odutola.
It would be recalled, as earlier reported by Naija News, that Portable turned himself in at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Lagos State.
The spokesperson of the Lagos Police Command, Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed the development, added that the singer is being moved to the Ogun State Command.
She added that due process would be followed in the investigation into his matter, and necessary updates would be provided to members of the public.
She said, “The Ogun State Police Command wishes to inform the public that Habeeb Okikiola, also known as Portable, arrived at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Eleweran, Abeokuta, at exactly 13:23 hours today, February 19, 2025.
“His presence at the SCID is connected to an ongoing investigation. The command assures the public that due process will be followed in handling this matter, and updates will be provided as necessary.”
Recall that Portable was declared wanted after he was reportedly involved in a violent altercation with Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development officials.
The altercation occurred when Portable allegedly confronted three town planning officials—TPL Onabanjo Abidemi, TPL Raymond Lateef, and TPL Ridwan Oyero Akinlesi—who were conducting an enforcement exercise in Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, Ogun State.

Dr. Temitope GLORIOUS Makes Historic Visit to INUKAN LCDA, Supervises Ongoing Projects

Dr. Temitope GLORIOUS Makes Historic Visit to INUKAN LCDA, Supervises Ongoing Projects

...orders Immediate Grading of Pa. Theophilus Akinyele Road

The Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious, has made a historic visit to INUKAN Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ajia, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to collaboration, unity, and balanced development across Ona Ara and its LCDA.

A statement signed by the Chairman’s Press Secretary, Mr. Rahmon Alawode, emphasized that the visit aimed to foster stronger ties, address developmental concerns, and inspect ongoing projects across the LCDA.

Welcoming Dr. Glorious and his entourage, the Executive Vice Chairman and Political Head of INUKAN LCDA, Hon. Windapo Oluwole, described the visit as historic, being the first time a main council chairman officially visited its LCDA counterpart. He praised Dr. Glorious for his inclusive leadership and commitment to grassroots development.

In his address, Dr. Glorious reaffirmed the unity between Ona Ara Local Government and INUKAN LCDA, stating:

"Some people have tried to separate us, forgetting that INUKAN LCDA was created from Ona Ara Local Government to extend development into our communities. We are one and the same. Any challenges between us must be addressed progressively."

He assured residents that his administration is committed to ensuring equitable distribution of projects and resources across Ona Ara and INUKAN LCDA.

During his tour, Dr. Glorious commended His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for the remarkable progress on the Ajia Express Interchange Bridge, describing it as a testament to the governor’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development in Oyo State.

"Governor Makinde has continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership by delivering critical infrastructure projects that improve connectivity and economic growth. The progress on the Ajia Express Interchange is commendable, and we remain grateful for his support toward our local government."

During the interactive session, management and staff of INUKAN LCDA presented key concerns to the Chairman, who responded with hopeful assurances:

Mrs. Akanmu Bolanle (Education Department) appealed for additional relief facilities, to which Dr. Glorious pledged more infrastructural support.

Mr. Aremu Olalekan (Acting Internal Auditor) highlighted the inadequate capacity to maintain existing infrastructure, and the Chairman assured that sustainable solutions would be explored.

Mrs. Falaki Adetutu (Ad-hoc Staff Representative) urged the Chairman to intervene in their recruitment process, noting that no ad-hoc staff in INUKAN LCDA had received formal appointment letters. Dr. Glorious reassured them that he has already engaged with the appropriate authorities and advised them to remain hopeful and prayerful.

In her closing remarks, the Acting HLGA of INUKAN LCDA, Mrs. Folasade Ayo-Kumuyi commended Dr. Glorious for his unprecedented visit, calling it “a new era in governance” and a groundbreaking moment for local administration in Oyo State.

Following the interactive session at the INUKAN LCDA Secretariat in Ajia, Dr. Glorious embarked on an inspection tour of key projects, reinforcing his hands-on approach to governance.

1. Ajia Express Interchange Bridge – Engr. Mrs. Mepe Folake from Peculiar Contractors led the tour and provided updates on the project’s progress.

2. Renovated Ajia Police Station – The Chairman promised to escalate the station’s upgrade request to the state government for swift operationalization.

3. Road Infrastructure – Dr. Glorious reviewed the Ajia road graded last year and immediately ordered the grading of Pa. Theophilus Akinyele Road to enhance vehicular movement and ease transportation in the area.

Accompanying Dr. Glorious were key government officials, including: Hon. Abolade Yerima (Leader, Ona Ara Legislative Arm), Hon. Babatunde Sunmonu (Secretary to the Local Government), Hon. Isiaka Arinola (Chief of Staff), Supervisory Councilors & Special Assistants.

Others are: Director of Environment, Sanitarian Popoola, Director of Amin & General Services, Mr. Bosun Olanrewaju, Director of Finance, Mr. Akinloye, Director of Education & General Services, Alhaja Adenike Akande, Information Officer, Mrs. Kafayat Olagunju.

This landmark visit underscores Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious’s unwavering commitment to fostering unity, transparency, and sustainable development across Ona Ara Local Government and INUKAN LCDA. His hands-on leadership approach ensures that no community is left behind in the march toward progress.

Signed:

Mr. Rahmon Alawode

Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Ona Ara Local Government

Celebrating a Pillar of Support and Inspiration: Happy Birthday to Mr. Aderemi Adesoji Oluwole From C.E.O Da Tumite Multimedia and Services

Celebrating a Pillar of Support and Inspiration: Happy Birthday to Mr. Aderemi Adesoji Oluwole From C.E.O Da Tumite Multimedia and Services

Today, 19th of February 2025, marks a special day as we celebrate the birthday of an extraordinary individual, Mr. Aderemi Adesoji Oluwole.

As a devoted brother, friend, and confidant, Mr. Oluwole has been an unwavering source of support and inspiration to those around him. His selflessness, kindness, and generosity have touched countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on his community.

Throughout the years, Mr. Oluwole has demonstrated remarkable dedication, compassion, and empathy, making him a beloved figure among family, friends, and acquaintances. His unwavering support and guidance have been a beacon of hope and encouragement, inspiring others to strive for excellence.

As we celebrate this milestone birthday, we honor Mr. Oluwole's remarkable life, his accomplishments, and his contributions to those around him. We wish him a joyous birthday, filled with love, laughter, and all the happiness his heart desires.

Here's to many more years of inspiration, guidance, and love!

Signed,

Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

TEAR OF JOY AS DR. ORIYOMI HAMZAT SURPRISES IYA NIWE WITH A NEW HOME AFTER JERUSALEM PILGRIMAGE

TEAR OF JOY AS DR. ORIYOMI HAMZAT SURPRISES IYA NIWE WITH A NEW HOME AFTER JERUSALEM PILGRIMAGE

In a heartwarming display of kindness and generosity, the Chairman of Agidigbo FM in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat, has gifted a new house to renowned Nollywood actress and popular Kokoro Alate programme member, Abigail Oladeji, fondly known as Iya Niwe.

The surprise presentation took place shortly after Iya Niwe's return to Nigeria from a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Overwhelmed with emotion, Iya Niwe tearfully expressed her deepest gratitude to Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat for his unexpected act of kindness.

This remarkable gesture is a testament to Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat's philanthropic spirit and commitment to supporting individuals in need. His selfless act has brought joy and relief to Iya Niwe, and serves as an inspiration to others.

Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat's generosity has earned him widespread recognition and admiration, solidifying his position as a respected and compassionate leader in the community.

Nigeria’s Naira In Circulation Hits ₦5.2 Trillion In January

Nigeria’s Naira In Circulation Hits ₦5.2 Trillion In January

Currency in circulation within the Nigerian banking sector surged to ₦5.24 trillion in January 2025, marking the highest level ever recorded by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

This significant increase, up from ₦4.88 trillion in December 2024, represents a ₦1.22 trillion rise from the ₦3.65 trillion reported in January 2024.

Analysts attribute the rise to sustained printing of the local currency by the CBN and the escalating inflation rate in the country.

The surge also reflects growing public distrust in the banking system, with many Nigerians opting for cash transactions amid economic uncertainty.

When CBN Governor Olayemi Cardoso assumed office in September 2023, currency in circulation stood at ₦2.76 trillion.

Despite the increase in currency circulation, Nigeria’s economic growth remains sluggish, with the 2024 growth rate projected at 2.9% to 3.1%, one of the slowest in West Africa.

In response to inflationary pressures, the CBN’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) raised the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) to a record 27.25%, signaling a strong monetary tightening stance aimed at stabilizing the economy.

Analysts believe the rise in currency circulation indicates increased government spending to mitigate economic hardship, which has fueled inflation.

Vice President of Highcap Securities Limited, David Adnori, noted that increased government spending injects more money into the economy, leading to higher inflation due to the economic trade-off between money supply and price stability.

BREAKING: Nigeria loses another Elder Statesman

BREAKING: Nigeria loses another Elder Statesman

Pa Clark’s passage happened few days after nationalist Pa Ayo Adebanjo died at 95

Former Federal Commissioner for Information and Stateman, Edwin Clark, is dead.

A statement issued by the family disclosed that the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader died at 97 on Monday night.

The statement read, “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark OFR, CON on Monday 17th February, 2025. The family appreciates your prayers at this time. Other details will be announced later by the family.”

Pa Clark’s passage happened few days after nationalist Pa Ayo Adebanjo died at 95.

Details later…

You Are A Disgrace To Your Children’ – Davido Attacks Osun Commissioner Of Police

‘You Are A Disgrace To Your Children’ – Davido Attacks Osun Commissioner Of Police

Nigerian Afrobeat singer, David Adeleke, better known as Davido, has called out the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Muhammed Umar Abba, over the political crisis rocking the state.
Naija News reports that Davido’s uncle and the Osun Governor, Ademola Adeleke, alongside his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been embroiled in a political tussle with All Progressives Congress (APC) members.
The crisis stems from attempts by sacked Local government chairmen elected on the platform of the APC to force their way into office despite court orders removing them from office.
Governor Adeleke had at press conference on Sunday raised alarm over an alleged plot by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, to cause chaos and anarchy in the state from Monday, February 17, 2025.
The Governor alleged that Oyetola is conspiring with several law enforcement agents, including the State Commissioner of Police and the State Director of the Department of State Services, DSS, to destabilize the state.
According to him, the minister is spearheading moves to enforce a court order that reversed the sacking of local council chairmen elected on the state platform of the APC.
Adeleke clarified that the council chairmen were sacked before he was sworn in as Governor of Osun State, contrary to the lies being peddled that the chairmen and councillors were sacked by his Executive Order.
The local government secretariats in the state on Monday morning became battlefields as gunshots rented the air when the sacked local government chairmen and their allies attempted to enter the various secretariats but were resisted by the PDP members.
Displeased with the current situation in the state, Davido called out Abba via his X handle on Monday.
He wrote, “Mr commissioner respect the rule of law!!! You are not madder or crazier than us !! Make we all kuku mad !! MEN MOUNT WALAI TO KRF!!! I will post u everyday everywhere Mr man !!! Try me fucker. Mr Umar abba osun state commissioner u are a disgrace to ur children !! !!! Game on FUCKER !!!! All of us go mad together !! Werey!!!”

Niger Republic Bans Entry Of Nigerians With ECOWAS Passport, Demands International Passport

Niger Republic Bans Entry Of Nigerians With ECOWAS Passport, Demands International Passport

The Republic of Niger has begun enforcing new immigration restrictions on Nigerians travelling into the country, demanding a valid international passport for entry and barring the use of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) passports.
This development follows Niger’s recent withdrawal from the ECOWAS, alongside Mali and Burkina Faso.
Despite the continued open border between Nigeria and Niger, travellers and cross-border traders are facing significant challenges at major crossing points such as Illela (Nigeria) and Konni (Niger).
According to Punch, a trader identified as Alhaji Musa Abdullahi lamented the hardship caused by the new rule.
He said, “I believe there is a move to abolish the ECOWAS passport as a means of travelling here; they have started harassing us if we are entering the country.
“Some of our people are being turned back home. We learnt that there is a new passport being issued now to everyone coming to Niger Republic to replace the old ECOWAS passport.
“Some of our people are getting scared of the aftermath of all these issues, which have started to affect our business and trading activities”
A source in Taiwan, a state in Niger Republic, informed the platform that border officials have started turning back individuals relying solely on the ECOWAS passport.
“Some of our people have already been sent home. The authorities insist on their own national passport, making it difficult for traders and travellers,” he explained.
A commercial driver on the Illela-Konni route, Abubakar Isa, alleged that security officials in Niger have begun exploiting the situation to extort travellers.
“They demand between 5,000 to 10,000 CFA before allowing those with an ECOWAS passport to pass. If you can’t produce Niger’s new identification document, they take you to their office and pressure you to pay a bribe.
“Once they stop either the vehicle or motorcycle at their border, they take you to their office and make the demand for the passport, which they know we don’t have, they then collect money as bribe before you can be allow to go,” he added.
A trader in Illela, Alhaji Nuhu Abubakar, confirmed that Niger’s withdrawal from ECOWAS has had no immediate impact on trade or movement across the border.
He said, “We have continued our normal activities as usual, and there is no sign of an impending closure.
“The border remains open on both the Nigerian and Nigerien sides. We’ve heard rumours that the military junta in Niger is considering restricting motorcycle movement between the two countries, but for now, nothing concrete has been decided.”
The Head of Communication ECOWAS Commission, Joel Ahofodji, in a conversation with Punch on the development, said the regional bloc was unaware of Niger Republic’s policy to bar ECOWAS passport holders.

Honouring a Legacy: Ibadanland Celebrates Retiring Oyo CP Sonubi in Grand Farewell

Honouring a Legacy: Ibadanland Celebrates Retiring Oyo CP Sonubi in Grand Farewell

Ibadanland came together in a grand farewell ceremony to honour the retiring Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, Mr. Sonubi Ayodele, PSC, for his exceptional service and dedication to maintaining peace and security in the state. The prestigious event, hosted by Jagun Olubadan, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, at Ilaji Resort, was attended by dignitaries, traditional leaders, and security stakeholders who celebrated CP Sonubi’s invaluable contributions.

The event, expertly coordinated by the Chairman of Ibadan Compound Security Initiatives, Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade, was a testament to CP Sonubi’s wisdom, professionalism, and commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious, praised the retiring CP for his strategic approach to security challenges. He emphasized that the community’s decision to honour CP Sonubi was in recognition of his unwavering dedication to maintaining law and order in Ibadanland.

Speaking on behalf of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the President of the Ibadan Mogaji Association, Mogaji Asimiyu Ariori, presented a special gift to CP Sonubi Ayodele and his wife, acknowledging their sacrifices and selfless contributions to the security of Ibadanland.

The President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barr. Adewole Ajewole, represented by the First Assistant General Secretary of CCII, Mogaji Kunle Sodeinde, commended CP Sonubi’s professionalism in addressing security challenges, emphasizing the impact of his leadership on Ibadanland and Oyo State as a whole.

Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious also presented an Award of Excellence in Service to CP Sonubi on behalf of Ibadanland, highlighting his relentless efforts in ensuring safety and stability in the region.

Goodwill messages were delivered by notable figures, including the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Y.K. Abass; the Chairman and Vice Chairman of Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Service, Mogaji Ademola Oladosu; the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Chapter, Comrade Ademola Babalola; Iyaloja Saratu Aduke; and the President of the Oyo State Artisan Group, Aare Yisa Kolayode.

The ceremony served as a fitting tribute to CP Sonubi Ayodele’s illustrious career, as Ibadanland expressed deep gratitude for his years of service, leadership, and commitment to security. As he embarks on his retirement, the people of Ibadanland wish him continued success and fulfillment in his future endeavors.

Nigeria’s Invictus Games Hopes Dashed as Seven Athletes Were Denied Canadian Visas

Nigeria’s Invictus Games Hopes Dashed as Seven Athletes Were Denied Canadian Visas

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), has explained how the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria frustrated Nigeria’s chances of winning more medals at the ongoing Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.

The military high command said that despite its best efforts, only 14 members of the team, excluding the team leader, captain, and physiotherapist, were granted visas by Canadian High Commission.

A statement by Acting Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, stressed that the team, comprising three officers and 21 players, including a team physiotherapist, eagerly looked forward to this opportunity.

The military regretted that seven of its athletes who had the potential to excel were denied visas, preventing them from participating in the Games.

General Gusau explained that notwithstanding this setback, the team’s outstanding performance earned Nigeria gold, silver and bronze medals, proudly placing Nigeria and Africa on the global map of Invictus Games.

He said: “The Defence Headquarters wishes to address and debunk the recent allegations regarding Nigeria Military request for visas to attend Invictus Games in Canada.

“Recently, the Nigerian Military received an invitation to participate in the Invictus Games in Vancouver, Canada.

“Our team, comprising three officers and 21 players, including a team physiotherapist, eagerly looked forward to this opportunity.

“As the only African nation participating in the Games. The Invictus Games Foundation catered for our team’s accommodation and feeding needs, along with those of other participating nations”.

General Gusau added, “However, despite our best efforts, only 14 members of the team, excluding the team leader, captain, and physiotherapist, were granted visas.

“Regrettably, seven of our athletes who had the potential to excel were denied visas, preventing them from participating in the Games.

“Notwithstanding this setback, our team’s outstanding performance earned Nigeria gold, silver and bronze medals, proudly placing our nation and Africa on the global map of Invictus Games”.

He said the participation of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, would have added mental strength to the team if he was not denied visa.

He averred that it is on record that the CDS has initiated laudable projects to boost morale of service personnel who risk their lives to protect the nation and its people.

The Invictus Foundation Centre, first of its kind in Africa, currently under construction, is part of this initiative to provide care and mental healing for wounded personnel.

“We urge the public to disregard malicious and unfounded allegations about the ongoing games and support the efforts of the Armed Forces to enhance national security and promote the welfare of our servicemen and women especially those who sustained various degree of injuries while protecting our dear nation,” he said.

The military spokesperson concluded that the need for accurate information at this time can not be overemphasised.

Linus Aleke

The post Nigeria’s Invictus Games Hopes Dashed as Seven Athletes Were Denied Canadian Visas appeared first on Arise News.

Sources:

Arise News

POLICE DECLARE HABIB OKIKIOLA OLALOMI (PORTABLE) WANTED

POLICE DECLARE HABIB OKIKIOLA OLALOMI (PORTABLE) WANTED

The Ogun State Police Command has declared Habib Okikiola Olalomi, popularly known as Portable, wanted in connection with a case of assault and malicious damage.

The police are seeking the public's assistance in locating Portable, who is believed to be hiding in an undisclosed location.

According to the police, Portable's wanted status follows his failure to honor invitations and his alleged involvement in a case of assault and malicious damage.

The Ogun State Police Command is urging anyone with information on Portable's whereabouts to come forward and assist the police in apprehending him.

The Command is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that those who break the law are held accountable.

Signed,

SP Abimbola Oyeyemi

Police Public Relations Officer

Ogun State Police Command

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi Receives Prestigious United Nations Distinguished Service Award

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi Receives Prestigious United Nations Distinguished Service Award

In a remarkable recognition of his outstanding contributions to public service, Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi, Leader of the House, Ibadan North East Legislative Council, has been conferred with the prestigious United Nations Distinguished Service Award.

The award ceremony took place at the National Museum, Alesinloye, Ibadan, as part of the celebrations marking World Radio Day. Hon. Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola received the award on behalf of Hon. Igbalajobi.

Hon. Igbalajobi expressed his profound gratitude to the organizers for considering him worthy of this esteemed honor. He pledged to continue his dedicated service to the people, striving for excellence and making a positive impact in his community.

This prestigious award is a testament to Hon. Igbalajobi's tireless efforts and commitment to public service. His leadership and contributions to the development of Ibadan North East Legislative Council have not gone unnoticed, and this recognition by the United Nations is a well-deserved acknowledgment of his hard work and dedication.

Signed

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi

Leader of the House, Ibadan North East Legislative Council