Author: gqSbgCfmna

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Oyo State, Adeshina Adewale, popularly known as ‘Excel’, has resigned from the party.

Adewale exited alongside the party’s South-West chairman, all APGA chairmen across the 33 local government areas of the state, and the state women leader, in what appears to be a coordinated defection.

Other party officials who left include Hon. Adewale Hamzat (Vice Chairman, Oyo South), Hon. Olanrewaju Joshua (Vice Chairman, Oyo Central), Hon. Bakare Mumin Awayewaserere (Oluyole Chairman), Hon. Adewale Adeogun (Lagelu), and Fashola Taiwo (Ibadan North-East Local Government Chairman), among others.

Explaining his decision, Adewale described the move as personal, adding that he would announce his next political step in due course, particularly as the 2027 elections approach.

His departure is expected to impact APGA’s political prospects in Oyo State, where the party had begun early preparations for the polls.

The development has also fuelled speculation about his next political alignment, with observers suggesting a possible move to another major party.

The scale of the defection has further raised concerns about internal challenges within the party’s state chapter, leaving APGA with the task of reorganising and filling the leadership vacuum ahead of the elections.

Adewale’s next move is likely to be closely monitored, given its potential implications for the balance of political power in Oyo State.

A public affairs commentator, Olaore Stephen, has called on the Federal Government to consider a senior official of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund, Ojo John Olusola, for higher national responsibilities. He cited his track record of competence and service.

Stephen, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, described Ojo as a disciplined and forward-thinking professional whose contributions to national development have remained impactful.

He noted that Ojo, who currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer at Tertiary Education Trust Fund, has demonstrated strong administrative leadership acumen and strategic capacity in the discharge of his duties.

Stephen added that Ojo has been instrumental in coordinating institutional policies and development programmes within the agency, contributing to improved governance frameworks and operational efficiency in the tertiary education sector.

The commentator said the Ekiti-born administrator had built a career spanning over two decades across both the public and private sectors, with experience in strategic planning, administration, finance, marketing and operations management.

He added that Ojo had worked across key sectors, including oil and gas, telecommunications, manufacturing and public service, which are critical to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Stephen also highlighted Ojo’s performance during his time at African Petroleum Plc, now Forte Oil Plc, where he reportedly recorded significant growth in lubricant sales and expanded the company’s market share.

He further hailed Ojo’s interpersonal and negotiation skills, describing them as vital assets in modern governance and leadership.

Stephen urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritise merit and competence by appointing professionals with proven records like Ojo into key national positions, saying such appointments would strengthen institutional effectiveness and promote a culture of performance-driven leadership in the country.

Ojo John Olusola, PhD: A Quiet Force of Excellence Deserving National Assignment

In a nation continually searching for competent, disciplined, and forward-thinking public servants, true distinction often emerges not from noise, but from substance. Dr. Ojo John Olusola exemplifies this rare quality a man whose career and character reflect quiet excellence, intellectual depth, and an unwavering commitment to national development.

My encounter with Dr. Ojo was both humbling and instructive. It reaffirmed a widely held perception about indigenes of Ekiti State a culture deeply rooted in scholarship, discipline, and an almost instinctive drive for self-improvement. In Dr. Ojo’s case, this ethos is not merely present; it is remarkably pronounced and consistently demonstrated.

Born in Ado Ekiti in 1970, Dr. Ojo has built a distinguished career spanning over two decades across both public and private sectors. His professional trajectory reflects both versatility and depth, with expertise in strategic planning, administration, business development, finance, marketing, and operations management. He has made meaningful contributions across key industries, including oil and gas, telecommunications, manufacturing, and public service-sectors central to Nigeria’s economic development.

Currently serving at the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Dr. Ojo holds the position of Chief Administrative Officer and a member of the management team. In this capacity, he provides high-level administrative leadership and coordination, ensuring the effective implementation of institutional policies, strategic initiatives, and development programmes. His role is central to strengthening governance frameworks, improving operational efficiency, and supporting the sustainable advancement of Nigeria’s tertiary education system.

Dr. Ojo is not merely an administrator; he is a strategist with a demonstrable record of impact. His tenure at African Petroleum Plc (now Forte Oil Plc) remains a compelling example. Tasked with market expansion under challenging conditions, he delivered exceptional results, growing lubricant sales by over 3,400 percent while significantly expanding the company’s market reach. Such outcomes underscore a rare combination of analytical insight, disciplined execution, and strategic foresight.

His academic journey is equally distinguished. From his early education in Ado Ekiti to advanced degrees, including a PhD and M.Phil in Business Administration, Dr. Ojo embodies the principle of lifelong learning. Notably, his intellectual pursuits remain active, with continued aspirations toward professorial attainment and broader global engagement-an uncommon but commendable commitment at this stage of his career.

Beyond his credentials and professional milestones lies perhaps his most defining strength: an exceptional capacity for human relationship management and strategic negotiation. These are indispensable attributes in modern governance, where leadership increasingly demands the ability to align institutional priorities with human capital development. In this regard, Dr. Ojo stands out as both a bridge-builder and a results-driven thinker.

It is therefore both timely and appropriate to advocate for greater national recognition and responsibility for individuals of Dr. Ojo’s calibre. As the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu continues to emphasize competence, innovation, and performance-driven leadership, the inclusion of proven professionals like Dr. Ojo in national assignments would reinforce meritocracy while strengthening institutional effectiveness.

Ekiti State has long been celebrated as the ‘Fountain of Knowledge,’ and Dr. Ojo stands as a compelling embodiment of that legacy. His story is one of discipline, quiet resilience, and sustained excellence-qualities that Nigeria urgently requires in its journey toward sustainable development.

In recognising Dr. Ojo, we are reminded of an enduring truth: the progress of any nation rests not solely on political authority, but on the competence, integrity, and vision of those entrusted with its service.

Over 2,000 members of the Ondo State Chapter of the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle, Tricycle, Repairers, and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORON) have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the next year’s presidential election.

ACOMORON expressed their readiness to work for the second term of President Tinubu.

The state Chairman of the transport union, Comrade Akinlolu Olumonrin, said they decided to support Tinubu because of the development he has brought to the state through the construction of roads and the appointments of prominent indigenes of the state into his government.

Speaking at a rally organised by the Asiwaju Mandate Group (AMG), Olumorin said the union members believe that once Tinubu is reelected, the good jobs he has embarked upon in the state would not be abandoned.

According to him, ‘We look into everything. All he did in Nigeria, in every state, we discovered he is the only person who can continue the job so that the programme will continue. On our own ends in ACOMORAN, we tried a lot to make ACOMORAN visible in Ondo State. We wrote many letters and even sued the government, but we did not achieve anything. We discovered that if we go through the President, our union may come to reality.’

Sterling Nigerian actress Joke Silva has been announced as the Head Judge of the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026.

This was announced at a press briefing at the MultiChoice studio situated in Ilupeju, Lagos, on Thursday, March 26, 2026.

As the awards build towards its star-studded ceremony, Africa Magic has officially set the stage for one of the most anticipated editions rolling.

Atinuke Babatunde, Executive Head of Content and Channels, MultiChoice West Africa, reacting to the significance of the 12th edition, said, ‘Beyond the lights, the red carpet, and the applause, there is a deeper story – one of craftsmanship. The writers, the directors, the editors, the designers, the technicians – the many hands and minds that shape the stories we love. This year, we are being as intentional as we’ve always been about recognising that ecosystem of excellence.’

The 12th edition of the AMVCAs introduces key changes that deepen its pan-African reach and commitment to equitable representation. This year’s edition expands its Indigenous Language categories with the introduction of Best Indigenous Language – North Africa and Best Indigenous Language – Central Africa, a landmark step in ensuring that Africa’s diverse languages, regions, and creative voices are more fully celebrated on a continental stage.

Speaking further, Babatunde said, ‘We are celebrating culture in all its richness and authenticity. From Lagos to Nairobi, from Dakar to Johannesburg, African stories continue to reflect who we are, how we live, and how we connect with the world.’

With this, the 12th AMVCA will feature 32 award categories in total, including 18 jury-decided categories and 11 public voting categories, alongside three special recognition awards for Lifetime Achievement and Trailblazer.

The 12th AMVCA is headlined by Don Julio as lead sponsor, while Guinness, Singleton, Onga, Johnnie Walker, Orijin, MTN, Smirnoff Ice, QuickTeller, Verve, Indomie, and Lush Hair join as co-sponsors.

The highly anticipated nominee announcement is slated for Sunday, 29 March 2026, airing live on Africa Magic channels from 7PM and hosted by AMVCA-winning actor Chiemezie Imo.

Since its inception in 2013, the AMVCAs have become a cornerstone of Africa’s creative economy, fostering job creation, revenue generation, and industry growth. Over the past decade, the awards have invested significantly in events, training, and logistics, creating over 30,000 jobs across various sectors, benefiting professionals from production designers and screenwriters to sound engineers and artisans. Above all, it has remained a stage for stars and talent behind some of Africa’s most celebrated films and television shows to shine their brightest, ensuring their work is seen, honoured, and remembered.

Nigeria Women’s U-19 will look to complete a dominant tournament run when they face Rwanda in today’s final of 5th Nigeria Women’s Invitational WT20i (Patricia Kambarami Cup), after dismantling South Africa with a ruthless seven-wicket victory in the semi-finals.

The Nigerians never broke a sweat against South Africa, reducing the Proteas Women’s U-19 to five wickets down for just 6 runs inside four overs. South Africa limped to 66 all out in 17 overs – a total Nigeria overhauled in fewer than 10, with captain Lucky Piety killing the contest by smashing two sixes off her first two deliveries.

It was a performance that sent a message. Lilian Ude claimed 3 wickets for 6 runs in 4 overs and was named Player of the Match. In doing so, she reached the career milestone of 150 wickets. Nigeria’s bowling attack has been the most suffocating in the tournament, and Rwanda will have watched Thursday’s semi-final with concern.

Rwanda, for their part, showed they can dig deep. Their semi-final against Zimbabwe went down to the wire – the East Africans chasing 136 in 20 overs and crossing the line in the penultimate over to win by 5 wickets. Captain Marie Diane Bimenyinmana’s 34 off 41 balls held the chase together when it mattered most, while Giselle Ishimwe’s 37 off 24 balls gave Rwanda the early momentum they needed.

The final is a clash of contrasting styles – Nigeria’s disciplined bowling attack against Rwanda’s ability to bat under pressure and find match-winners at the biggest moments.

Nigeria arrive as clear favourites. But Rwanda have already shown they know how to win ugly. The final promises fireworks.

The Lagos State Government has held special prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of his 74th birthday and his re-election bid.

It was held at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque (LSCCM), Alausa.

The event featured clerics offering prayers for Nigeria, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Dr Kadri Hamzat and other political leaders.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, SAN, thanked Lagosians and Nigerians for their support for President Tinubu.

The governor expressed optimism that the country would overcome its current challenges under Tinubu’s leadership.

He urged residents not to be complacent about the president’s political future but to remain actively engaged.

He called on eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voters’ Cards and participate fully in future elections.

He called for sustained mobilisation ahead of the 2027 polls.

He noted that the president remains committed to reforms aimed at improving security and strengthening the nation.

Sanwo-Olu also referenced ongoing discussions around the creation of state police, noting that proposals on its operational framework have been submitted to the National Assembly. He urged Nigerians to remain patient and trust the administration’s long-term vision, adding that national development requires time and consistency.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters (Islam), Dr Abdullahi Jebe, said the prayer session was necessary in recognition of Tinubu’s contributions to society. He described the president as a leader who has mentored many and contributed to the development of others.

Dr Jebe said that praying for national leaders remains an important responsibility, noting that Tinubu’s tenure as governor of Lagos laid foundations that continue to shape governance in the state. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the president’s leadership and support efforts aimed at national progress.

Chairman of the mosque, Afis Gbolahan LSCCM Chairman, Mr Hafis Toriola, an engineer, said the initiative was not only to honour the president but also to pray for the country’s stability and growth.

Toriola, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing, explained that the gathering aligned with religious teachings which encourage prayers for leaders, adding that the session focused on seeking divine guidance, protection and wisdom for those in positions of authority.

He said that the prayers extended beyond the president to include key state officials and the Nation.

According to him, the goal was to ask for wisdom and direction for leaders at all levels, with the hope that their decisions would promote development and improve the welfare of citizens.

The Nathaniel Idowu-Ajegunle Under-14 Football League is gathering momentum as Week 9 promises an action-packed day of matches today.

Four thrilling encounters are lined up, showcasing some of the finest young talent in the Ajegunle football community.

The day kicks off at noon with Coal City Football Academy taking on Ajegunle United Sporting Club.

Ajegunle United enters the fixture brimming with confidence after a 2-0 victory over Divinely Blessed FA, powered by a brace from James Solomon. Coal City, who drew 1-1 with Bright Future FA last week, will be eager to halt their opponent’s momentum.

At 1:00 p.m., Young 11 Football Academy faces Bright Future Football Academy. Young 11 will be seeking redemption after a heavy 7-1 defeat to Fortune FA, while Bright Future, fresh from a draw against Coal City, will be determined to secure maximum points.

The third match of the day sees Moree Wins Foundation Football Academy clash with Michael May FA at 2:00 p.m.

Moree Wins will be looking to bounce back from a narrow 2-1 loss to Strong Dove FA, while Michael May FA hopes to end their losing streak after a 6-0 defeat to Pure Talents FA.

The final showdown at 3:00 p.m. pits Divinely Blessed Football Academy against Strong Dove Football Academy.

Strong Dove, buoyed by their 2-1 win over Moree Wins FA, will aim to extend their winning run, while Divinely Blessed seeks to recover from their 2-0 loss to Ajegunle United.

With momentum, pride, and points at stake, Week 9 promises an exciting day of grassroots football, as these young guns continue to make their mark in one of Ajegunle’s most vibrant youth competitions.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to ace investigative journalist, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, describing him as a courageous professional who has consistently spoken truth to power.

In a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President lauded Kolade-Otitoju’s enduring contributions to journalism and national development, highlighting his citizen-focused reporting, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the truth.

‘Babajide Otitoju stands out as a journalist of great reckoning and distinction. He speaks truth to power without caring whose ox is gored,’ Tinubu said.

The President noted that the veteran journalist’s vast experience across print and electronic media has enriched public discourse and strengthened the media landscape in Nigeria.

Kolade-Otitoju began his journalism career with the Democrat newspaper in Kaduna between 1991 and 1992 before joining TheNews Group in 1993 as a pioneer staff member, reporting from Kano.

While in Kano, he earned national recognition for his fearless reporting, including coverage of a religiously motivated killing despite threats to his safety.

He later distinguished himself within TheNEWS Organisation, rising to edit PMNEWS and TheNEWS magazine, before moving to Television Continental (TVC), where he currently serves as Director of News and anchor of the popular current affairs programme, ‘Journalists’ Hangout.’

President Tinubu described Kolade-Otitoju as a journalist with ‘vast experience and knowledge across diverse disciplines, sectors, regions, and cultures,’ noting that his analytical depth and perspectives on television remain widely respected.

‘He brings to the Journalists Hangout programme of TVC rich and informed perspectives and analysis that one can hardly ignore. His contributions to journalism, particularly the growth and development of TVC, are also worthy of mention,’ the President added.

The President further congratulated the media veteran on attaining the age of 60, commending his service to the profession and the nation.

‘I congratulate Otitoju on attaining this milestone age of 60. I commend him for his services to his profession and Nigeria. I wish him many more years and a continued life of impact,’ Tinubu stated.

The National Caretaker Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), backed by Nyesom Wike, on Saturday said it was unaware of any appeal filed by the Tanimu Turaki group challenging the Court of Appeal judgment on the party’s crisis.

Addressing a pre-convention news conference, the committee’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Haruna Mohammed, also stated that there was no knowledge of any court order halting the planned convention. He described reports suggesting otherwise as social media fabrications.

Mohammed affirmed that the convention would proceed as scheduled and would be inclusive. He added that several party members who had not aligned with any faction had expressed readiness to participate in the exercise.

He said, ‘As you have heard, the convention will go ahead tomorrow, and all arrangements have been concluded. Any reports or insinuations you refer to are, for now, things we are only seeing on social media. By the grace of God, on 29 March, the convention will be held as scheduled.

Responding to questions, Mohammed said ‘we are not aware of any court order or appeal filed anywhere. If anything exists, it may well be in the realm of social media. We have not been served, and we cannot comment on what we do not know.

‘Regarding the concern that we may end up like the other convention, the difference is clear: that gathering was not backed by law and was, in fact, restricted by a competent court. In our case, we have the full backing of the courts, the law, and the members of the party.

‘On inclusivity, even within an extended family, you do not expect everyone to be on the same page. However, it may interest you to know that we currently have the largest following within the party. Individuals such as Bukola Saraki, who had not initially aligned with any bloc, will be present tomorrow, along with Sule Lamido and many others.

‘Several senators, National Assembly members, and key stakeholders who had not previously identified with us will attend the convention.

‘The party has taken a direction. Anyone who feels aggrieved and chooses not to align with us is within their constitutional rights.

‘As for the issue of forms, if you are reporting for a media organisation that is unaware of the process, then perhaps the organisation is not well informed. Other media outlets carried our activities live during the screening process.

‘Some of you even contacted me directly to ask where forms were being sold, and I directed you to the office of the National Organising Secretary. So I am surprised by that assertion.

‘We have complied with all party regulations and processes. We are fully compliant, 100 per cent compliant. By the grace of God, the convention will hold tomorrow’.

Speaking earlier on preparation for the convention, he said ‘as we stand on the threshold of the 2026 National Convention of our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), we address you today with a deep sense of responsibility, confidence, and commitment to the unity and progress of our party and our dear nation.

‘Tomorrow’s convention marks yet another defining moment in the life of the PDP.

A moment that reaffirms our democratic ideals, our respect for due process, and our unwavering dedication to the will of the people.

‘The National Caretaker Working Committee (NCWC) has worked tirelessly to ensure that this convention is not only credible and transparent but also inclusive and reflective of the collective aspirations of our members across the country. All necessary arrangements have been concluded to guarantee a smooth, peaceful, and successful exercise.

‘We wish to assure all party faithful and the general public that this convention is being conducted in full compliance with the constitution of our party and in line with all relevant laws. The PDP remains a law-abiding institution, committed to strengthening democracy in Nigeria.

‘On recent developments, including attempts by certain individuals to disrupt this process, we urge all members to remain calm and focused. The party has consistently extended the hand of reconciliation, and that door remains open.

‘However, we will not allow the progress and stability of our great party to be undermined.

‘We call on all delegates, stakeholders, and observers to conduct themselves in an orderly and peaceful manner. This convention belongs to all of us, and its success depends on our collective discipline and unity.

‘To Nigerians, we reaffirm that the PDP remains the most credible platform for national development, good governance, and the protection of democratic values. Tomorrow’s convention will further strengthen our capacity to deliver on this mandate.

‘We wish to express our profound appreciation to the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister EzenwoNyesom Wike, for his support and cooperation in ensuring a conducive environment for the successful hosting of this convention in Abuja. His commitment to maintaining order and providing the necessary institutional support is commendable and deeply appreciated.’

Comedian Oluwaseyitan Aletile, popularly known as Seyi Law, has lauded President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its economic and administrative progress.

Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention on Friday, Seyi cited significant growth in Nigeria’s foreign reserves, removal of the fuel subsidy, and unification of the FX market as notable achievements.

He praised Tinubu’s bold moves, including scrapping the fuel subsidy regime on inauguration day, and launching the student loan scheme, which benefits almost 1 million students.

He also highlighted the establishment of tuition-free technical colleges and massive infrastructure development, including several superhighways.

He said, ‘Today, ladies and gentlemen in education, Mr President has built several technical colleges across the nation, tuition-free for all the students; hence, students from federal technical colleges are receiving salaries up to the fee of 45,000 naira.’

The Comedian also cited the massive expansion of Nigeria’s road network, linking major economic hubs through what he described as an ‘ambitious super highway’ project.

‘Ladies and gentlemen, this is the president who decided that this nation will continue to thrive and is staking up giant infrastructural development. Today we are talking about the Lagos-Calabar costal highway of about 700km roads, we are talking about the 1000km Sokoto-badagry highway, we are talking about the repair and rehabilitation of the Sagamu- IJebu Ode- Ore highway. We are talking about the Ebonyi-Calabar Abuja super highway, we are talking about the Benin-Asaba rehabilitation. We are talking about the Iwo road to Ilesa to Akure super highway,’ Seyi Law noted.

The comedian expressed pride in Tinubu’s leadership, stating he has brought Nigeria back from economic collapse.

He urged Nigerians to applaud Tinubu’s efforts, emphasising systematic tackling of corruption.

Seyi Law said, ‘Nigeria was introduced, and I said to myself if I were to introduced Mr President how would I do it and I just said that this is a man that I’m willing to stake everything for because he is the man that brought Nigeria back from the brink of economy collapse when our net foreign reserve stood at barely 1 billion dollar but today we celebrate a net foreign reserve that is about 40billion dollar and a gross foreign reserve that is about 50.7billion US dollar.

‘I think Mr President deserve a round of applause. Ladies and gentlemen, corruption doesn’t just roll away; you tackle it systematically. And today I’m proud to say on the first day of his inauguration, he systematically tackled corruption by stopping the fuel subsidy regime. I think he deserves a round of applause.’

He added, ‘Ladies and gentlemen, he didn’t stop there; he looked at the nation, and our foreign exchange was eating deep into the nation, and he floated the foreign exchange. Ladies and gentlemen, the black market and the real market have been unified.

‘He is the man that understood education and that is why he said that the 4 year term will be 4 years and today with the agreement between ASUU and the federal government i can tell you boldly that this is the only administration that has the shortest strike ever with just 9days strike and today ladies and gentlemen, our student in the universities receive NELFUND loan. Almost 1 million students are already benefitting, and they are receiving a 20,000 naira monthly stipend.’