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Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance anchored on citizens’ participation, transparency and accountability.

He said consulting widely with the people before presenting the state budget remained a defining feature of his government.

Abiodun made this known during the Town Hall Meeting for the Egba Division, held as part of the preparations for the 2026 Budget.

He urged residents and stakeholders to continue partnering with government in building ‘a state that works for everyone.’

Represented by the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okuboyejo, the governor said his administration had over the years implemented strategic public financial management reforms aligned with international best practices, ensuring fiscal discipline and effective service delivery.

According to him, the ISEYA Development Agenda continues to guide the administration’s policy direction, resulting in remarkable progress across critical sectors, including infrastructure, health care, housing, education, agriculture, security and youth empowerment.

‘In the last 12 months, our administration has recorded notable achievements made possible through enhanced fiscal discipline, transparency and efficiency, which have collectively driven socio-economic progress and laid a solid foundation for sustainable growth,’ the governor said.

Abiodun listed ongoing road construction, reconstruction and rehabilitation projects across the state-including the Egba Division-as part of efforts to improve connectivity and boost economic activities.

In the health sector, he highlighted the renovation and equipping of primary health care facilities, the installation of solar power systems, and the rollout of the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme to expand access to quality healthcare.

The governor also mentioned the installation of solar streetlights and deployment of transformers to improve electricity supply, as well as the completion of affordable housing projects such as the Olumo Residential Court Apartments and the Ibara GRA Regeneration Project (Phase I).

On security, he disclosed that more Amotekun operatives have been recruited to strengthen community surveillance and crime prevention, while in education, the government has rehabilitated science laboratories, renovated technical colleges, and trained STEM teachers to enhance learning outcomes.

Governor Abiodun noted that the state’s successful hosting of the 2024 Gateway Games reinforced Ogun’s reputation as a hub for sporting excellence and cultural unity.

‘We renovated and modernised all our sporting facilities to international standards, culminating in the inauguration of MKO Abiola Sports Arena, now a premier venue for continental and regional competitions,’ he said.

He added that Ogun State recently hosted the Confederation of African Athletics U18/U20 Championships and continues to host CAF competitions at the Arena, solidifying its status as a trusted venue for international sporting events.

On job creation, the governor said the administration had inaugurated Ogun Job Centre and Work Hub at the Government Science and Technical College, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta – a one-stop centre for career guidance, entrepreneurial support, and employment opportunities.

In the agricultural sector, Abiodun said the state had procured modern farm machinery, rehabilitated eight farm settlements, and upgraded the Ogun State Farmers Information Management System (OGFIMS) to a digital platform that enhances market access and supports farmers’ participation in government programmes.

He also revealed plans to transform rural markets such as the Kila Market in Odeda into modern agro-logistics centres aimed at strengthening value chains, improving storage, and reducing post-harvest losses.

As preparations continue for the 2026 Budget, Abiodun said his administration would focus on empowering young people, supporting small businesses, and strengthening social protection systems for vulnerable citizens.

The governor emphasised that the 2026 Budget would consolidate gains in infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and job creation, reflecting citizens’ priorities gathered during the town hall sessions.

Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, commended the governor’s efforts in infrastructure development but urged the state government to engage the federal authorities on the rehabilitation of federal roads within the state.

Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, described the Town Hall Meetings as a vital pillar of participatory governance, transparency, and accountability, saying the initiative underscored the government’s belief that ‘meaningful progress begins with the people.’

Creative entrepreneur and CEO, NOW Music, Efe Omorogbe has exhibited his skill in the motion picture industry with a moving advocacy movie documentary of the story of the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa entitled ‘Adda: Empowered by Education.’

Held at the Pop Central Culture Centre, Lekki, the well-attended soiree tagged; ‘Educate To Empower (E2E)’ witnessed the interesting story of the celebrated jurist who rose through the ranks to become the first female of Court of Appeal aside her personal life of integrity, motherhood and professionalism. Testimonials were given by her colleagues, husband, children and associates.

The occasion which was in commemoration of the International Day of the Girlchild also had the launch of E2E Scholarship Trust.

In her keynote address, Dr (Mrs) Aisha Mohammed Oyebode told the story as the odd was stacked against her but for determination of her late father who died when she was 12 years and the resilience of her mother who sent her to England when suitors started coming for her at a young age, the story would have been different. She also talked about her father’s sister who was married off at a tender age but also overcame her challenges to become a celebrated author for her keynote speech.

‘Odd stacked against her. When my father died. My father’s family was very traditional. They could not envision that a girl should go to school. But my father was determined. At the age of 12, my father died. They sent me to England because suitors started coming,’ she said.

Co-founder, Pop Central Culture Centre, Bola Yinka -Obebe anchored a panel discussion with panelists such as Miss Oluwatomisin Adebukola Bankole, Betty Abah, Lucy Ameh, Theo Ukpaa and Solomon Okonkwo.

Founder/CEO, Buckwyld Media Network and initiator, E2E, Omorogbe who hinted that the documentary was made in 2020 said: ‘We made this film to tell the story of a high achiever, a great women. The most fascinating thing is all of this beautiful story could have been a totally different scenario. When she was married off with cousins of her age, had she not returned to school, the story would have been different.

‘We used the power of story-telling to affect people’s choices positively. We are grateful for the support of partners and friends who came through for us. Together we launched the E2E Scholarship Trust, a bold step to ensuring that every girl, no matter her circumstance, has the opportunity to learn, lead and transform her community. With your continued support, we are confident that one empowered girl will indeed spark a million dreams.’

The documentary which was shown to approximately 50 million Nigerians on different television platforms was in partnership with Pop Central TV and Hope for the Masses Foundation.

International Workplace Group has announced plans to double its presence in Nigeria with launch of, Spaces, to strengthen the country’s flexible work economy.

At the unveiling in Lekki, Lagos, IWG Country Manager, Ayo Akinmade, said the expansion reflects demand for modern, cost-efficient work environments that back business agility and innovation.

He said: ‘IWG is an international business operating in 127 countries, with more than 9,000 locations in 900 cities. In Nigeria, we have 23 locations, and the introduction of Spaces marks a major milestone.’

He said Spaces offers a more open setup than IWG’s other brands – Regus and HQ – and is to help businesses scale without constraints of traditional office leases.

‘The difference with Spaces is that it has more space and flexibility. Businesses can grow and expand without being tied to long-term leases. In Lagos, this is our 13th location. We also have six in Abuja, and we’re expanding to Owerri and Kano,’ he said.

The launch comes as Nigeria’s economy continues to diversify, with startups, freelancers, and multinational firms embracing flexible workspace models.

Speaking for MHQ, Helen Oshinusi said the partnership aligns with MHQ’s mission to redefine corporate culture and promote sustainability in workplace design.

Bukola Faleke, a prominent figure in the fashion industry and the wife of Honourable James Abiodun Faleke, the representative for Ikeja Federal Constituency, has taken her passion for fashion to new heights with the grand opening of her upscale fashion hub, Chic and Style Emporium Mall. This elegant store is strategically located on the bustling Osho Street, just off the Opebi link bridge in Onigbongbo LCDA, Ikeja, Lagos. The much-anticipated opening ceremony took place on Sunday, October 19, 2025, attracting a star-studded guest list of influential personalities and fashion enthusiasts from across Lagos, all eager to support this exciting new venture.

This latest addition to her fashion empire comes just over a year after Bukola launched her impressive six-floor fashion hub on Ogunusi Road, directly opposite Omole Phase 1 estate, on April 7, 2024. That initial store showcased a stunning array of women’s and children’s apparel, capturing the attention of both loyal customers and new clients alike. The grand opening of this establishment was a remarkable event, highlighted by the presence of the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Bamidele Abiodun, who performed the ceremonial ribbon-cutting, marking the official inauguration of the store and the beginning of a new chapter for the established fashion brand, which has been thriving for over 15 years.

Bukola, often referred to as Yeye Atunlushe-Akorede of Ikeja, has long been a recognized name in fashion and lifestyle circles. Her journey in the industry began with her involvement in beauty pageants and facial advertisements for leading brands, which helped her build a foundation of expertise and glamour. Her remarkable taste and innate sense of style have made her a beacon of sophistication in the fashion community, and her husband’s support has only amplified her influence in the scene.

As she opens her latest store, Bukola continues to solidify her position as a trendsetter and a formidable force in the ever-evolving world of fashion.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed Saturday, October 24th, as the new date for the CAF Champions League second preliminary round second leg encounter between Rivers United of Nigeria and Mozambique’s Associação Black Bulls.

The highly anticipated fixture will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 p.m. local time (5:00 p.m. Mozambique time).

Meanwhile, CAF has also appointed Ivorian referee Kouassi Frederic Francois Biro to officiate the decisive match. He will be assisted by compatriots Prosper Adiouman (Assistant Referee 1) and Eba Médard Wenceslas Ettien (Assistant Referee 2), while Patrick Tanguy Jean Philippe Vlei will act as the fourth official.

Ghana’s Munkaila Nassam Adam has been designated as the match commissioner for the encounter.

LEAP Africa has called on eligible voters in Anambra State to turn out in large numbers on November 8 to elect the state’s next governor.

Speaking at a press briefing in Onitsha, the organisation’s Programmes and Policy Coordinator, Haruna Godiya, decried the rising incidence of voter apathy, particularly among youths in the state. He attributed the trend to a trust deficit, insecurity, and other prevailing challenges.

The press briefing and stakeholders’ forum were held under the organisation’s Campaign Against Voter Apathy (CAVA) project, themed ‘Strengthening Citizens’ Participation in the 2025 Anambra Governorship Election.’ The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Catch Them Young Community Initiative (CATYCOI).

Godiya warned that voter apathy poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundation and undermines the efforts of the nation’s founding fathers.

‘People like the late Nnamdi Azikiwe (Zik), the late Alex Ekwueme, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, and the late Dora Akunyili made immense contributions to politics and national development,’ he said.

‘If we want Anambra to progress, one way to sustain the legacies of these great leaders is by ensuring good governance through active participation in the electoral process. When you don’t vote, you give someone else an advantage. This election presents another opportunity for Anambra voters to engage meaningfully.’

Earlier, Nonso Orakwe, Executive Director of CATYCOI, said the campaign aims to rekindle citizens’ confidence in the electoral process and empower eligible voters to exercise their rights.

‘As we approach the 2025 Anambra Governorship Election, we must remember that democracy thrives not merely through elections, but through the active participation, trust, and confidence of the people,’ Orakwe stated.

Also speaking, Edwin Okadigbo, Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), assured residents of the Corps’ readiness to protect citizens before, during, and after the election.

He urged voters to turn out en masse to vote for their preferred candidates and cautioned youths against being exploited by desperate politicians to disrupt the electoral process.

In his remarks, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), disclosed that no fewer than 1,000 of the association’s members would participate in the election.

‘We’ll use our numbers to make a political statement during the election so that we can press our demands afterwards,’ he said.

Other stakeholders present at the meeting included representatives of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said 18 higher institutions, including the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), are beneficiaries of the Federal Government’s N110 billion national intervention for expanding medical training facilities.

He said the initiative was meant to produce more healthcare professionals for national service.

President Tinubu spoke yesterday at the 40th convocation ceremonies of UNILORIN, the Kwara State capital.

Represented by the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Prof. Temidayo Oladiji, the president urged tertiary unions to always embrace dialogue.

‘I am confident that constructive engagement with unions will continue to prevent future industrial disruptions. I urge all staff unions to sustain the spirit of dialogue and cooperation.

‘Similarly, we are resolute in ensuring uninterrupted academic calendars across our universities. The Federal Government has paid earned allowances and part of the previously withheld salaries of academic and non-teaching staff.

‘The loan scheme for tertiary institutions’ workers has also been designed to assist them in meeting present economic challenges. It is a genuine empowerment initiative, not a burden.

‘Our decision to temporarily suspend the creation of new federal tertiary institutions stems from our conviction that we must consolidate and strengthen existing ones.

‘We prioritise quality over quantity. Adequate resources will therefore be channelled to existing institutions to enhance their capacity and impact.

‘To further deepen your impact, I am pleased to announce that the University of Ilorin has been selected to host one of the National Universities Commission’s Digital Innovation Hubs.

‘This flagship project is designed to harness the ingenuity, creativity, and entrepreneurial potential of our youths not only within this university but also across neighbouring institutions in Kwara State and beyond.

‘It will serve as a catalyst for research, digital skills development, and enterprise incubation, positioning Ilorin as a leading centre for innovation in Nigeria’s knowledge economy.

‘Our nation is undergoing profound economic reforms designed to restore stability, unlock productivity, and secure a prosperous future,’ the President said.

He added: ‘I acknowledge the temporary hardships Nigerians face today, but I assure you these challenges are short-lived.

‘The foundation we are laying will yield a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive economy. I appeal for continued understanding and patience.

‘The future of Nigeria depends on the choices we make today. My administration remains committed to pragmatic policies and programmes that will lead us to sustainable recovery and national greatness.

‘To achieve this, states and local governments must complement Federal efforts, especially now that they receive increased revenues.

‘While government remains committed to increased investment in education, I call on individuals, alumni, and the private sector to complement these efforts. Education is too important to be left solely to government.

‘The partnership of all stakeholders is vital in building a prosperous and knowledge-driven nation.’

SIR: Behind the façade of activism lies a business model built on foreign sympathy. Omoyele Sowore knows exactly what he’s doing – not out of conviction or genuine ideological drive, but as a calculated effort to sustain the image he has carefully built over the years. He understands that the stream of funding from certain international organizations and advocacy groups depends on his ability to remain visible and loud in Nigeria’s political space. Having positioned himself as a champion of democracy and human rights, he continues to draw attention – and by extension, financial support – from institutions that thrive on narratives of state repression and civic struggle in Africa.

Organizations that typically fund such ventures include press freedom groups, democracy and governance foundations, and human rights watchdogs based in North America and Europe. These bodies often provide grants for activities framed as civic enlightenment, media independence, or grassroots mobilization. Sowore has mastered the art of speaking the language that resonates with them – words like resistance, liberation, and citizen awakening. Yet behind the slogans, his activism increasingly resembles a performance designed to justify the inflow of donor funds rather than a sincere crusade for reform.

Over the years, Sowore has been associated with or has helped organize protests such as the #RevolutionNow movement, the End Bad Governance campaign, and several other demonstrations calling for ‘Days of Rage.’ Each episode garners headlines, sparks fleeting social media fervour, and reinforces his standing as a dissident figure – the kind that international funders like to identify with. But beyond the noise, there is little in terms of structured engagement or measurable transformation.

What emerges, sadly, is a brand of activism that has become a livelihood. It thrives on outrage and spectacle rather than on disciplined organization or lasting policy influence. His theatrics may keep him in the headlines and his accounts credited, but they do little to move Nigeria closer to the ideals he claims to defend. The real heroes of reform are those who work quietly, without foreign sponsorship or self-promotion – Nigerians who labour daily for change without needing to perform it.

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) yesterday expelled its former National Chairman, Shehu Musa Gabam, and National Youth Leader, Mr. Ogbonna Chukwuma Uchechukwu, over alleged misconduct, financial irregularities, and abuse of office.

The party’s decision reportedly followed several investigations and disciplinary proceedings culminating in the adoption of a White Paper submitted by the NWC at its closed-door meeting in Abuja

Addressing reporters at the party’s national secretariat, the SDP National Publicity Secretary, Rufus Aiyenigba, said the expulsion was based on the recommendations of the disciplinary committee, which investigated the allegations.

He recalled that the NWC had, on June 24, suspended Gabam, Uchechukwu, and the National Auditor, Mr. Clarkson Nnadi, over a prima facie case of misconduct and financial impropriety.

To ensure due process, Aiyenigba said the party constituted an independent disciplinary committee on July 4, which conducted a two-week investigation and submitted its report on July 18.

The NWC, he said, reviewed and adopted the White Paper on August 15, paving the way for yesterday’s final decision.

Those affected include: Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam – former National Chairman (dismissed and expelled), Mr. Ogbonna Chukwuma Uchechukwu – former National Youth Leader (dismissed and expelled), Mr. Clarkson Nnadi – former National Auditor (relieved of duties following voluntary resignation)

Others expelled include eight members – Adamu Abubakar Modibbo, Abubakar Dogara, Nuraddeen Bisalla, Solsuema Osaro, Ambo Ekpeyong, Eluwa Ifeanyi Henry, Humphrey Unwukaeze, and Judith Israel Shuaibu – for alleged disloyalty and unauthorised entry into the party’s national secretariat on July 28.

Aiyenigba said the decision was taken to restore discipline and integrity within the party, adding that additional administrative reforms recommended in the White Paper would be implemented to strengthen internal governance.

‘The actions take immediate effect from Thursday, October 23, 2025,’ he said.

The SDP spokesman stressed that the decisions were unanimously adopted by members of the NWC.

He said the party’s NWC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to the party’s constitution in all its operations.

IKI Leads Limited, a player in Nigeria’s alcoholic beverage industry, has said it will produce high quality products for the Nigerian market that are accessible and affordable.

Managing Director, Innocent Onwunali, noted: ”We’re building brands-classy, accessible, and proudly made”.

He spoke at the launch of the company’s newest collection, Doncoco, at Capital Club in Lagos. With this unveiling, IKI Leads strengthens its offerings, joining a portfolio that features Pasa Bitters Premium Liquor, PoloClub Chocolate Vodka, Meridian Club Cream, and Riverine Aromatic Schnapps.

The Doncoco line includes: Doncoco Vodka, Doncoco Vodka with Orange, Doncoco Tequila Reposado, Doncoco Whisky and Cola, Doncoco Single Malt Whiskey.

Onwunali said: ‘This is a dream come true. It’s taken almost a year of research and consultations to bring Doncoco to life. We’re proud to add this premium, yet affordable, product to our lineup’.

‘Doncoco was born from a simple idea: ‘What if we created a liquor that wasn’t just poured, but remembered?’ Each variant of Doncoco tells a story-crafted for different moods, personalities, and experiences.’

Onwunali said IKI Leads is also mindful of the economic challenges.

‘If inflation affects prices, our customers are informed. . We’re working on custom bottle designs for Doncoco,’ he added.

The unveiling was done by Nollywood act, Kanayo O. Kanayo. Actor, Zubby Michael Egwu, brand ambassador, was present. He lauded the brand and its leadership.

‘We’ve worked with Onwunali for nearly a decade. His humility is unmatched. Doncoco is a fantastic product. IKI is setting the pace for future of spirits in Nigeria,’ he said.

Others present included actors, Nosa Rex, Fanta Amonaline (Liberian content creator and actress), Dukori Patience (award-winning Nollywood star), and Catherine Onoja.

The launch solidifies IKI’s ambition to dominate the spirits market with quality, innovation, and cultural relevance. With eight distinctive products and a strong distribution network, the firm positions itself as a powerhouse in the sector.