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The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, on Wednesday embarked on a familiarisation tour of his official palace at Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, ahead of his planned relocation into the magnificent edifice.

The visit marked the first official assignment of the newly crowned 44th Olubadan, who ascended the throne last Friday in a historic coronation at Mapo Hall.

Before the tour, Oba Ladoja held a meeting with members of the Olubadan-in-Council, after which he was conducted around the palace by aides.

The inspection was aimed at assessing the state of the infrastructure and acquainting the monarch with the palace facilities.

A palace aide, who spoke anonymously, disclosed that the monarch expressed satisfaction with the condition of the palace after touring its various departments.

Oba Ladoja is expected to move into the official palace once the coronation activities are concluded.

He will be the second Olubadan to reside in the palace, following his predecessor, the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who broke tradition by becoming the first to rule from there instead of a private residence.

As part of the ongoing coronation events, a special Jumat service will be held on Friday at Oja’ba Central Mosque, while the ceremonies will conclude with the Isese traditional rites on Saturday.

Rite Foods Limited has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable innovations in its manufacturing processes.

The spoke while hosting reporters on a tour of its Energy Centre in Ososa, Ogun State, as part of activities that marked this year’s World Ozone Day. The day highlighted the importance of collective global action in protecting the ozone layer-earth’s natural shield against harmful ultraviolet radiation-and reinforces the need for continued efforts to tackle broader environmental challenges such as climate change and pollution.

Speaking during the tour, General Manager, Operations, Olufemi Ajileye, said the company is determined to set the pace in sustainable manufacturing with world-class processes that conserve energy, protect the environment, and cut carbon emissions.

At its factory, the company deployed fully automated systems, energy-efficient technologies, renewable energy, and advanced carbon-free infrastructure-all designed to safeguard the ozone layer and minimize its ecological footprint.

Head of Corporate Affairs and Sustainability, Ekuma Eze, explained that sustainability was embedded in the facility’s design. According to him, the company’s unique energy mix-92per cent gas, 6.5per cent diesel, and 1.5per cent solar-alongside low-emission technologies has kept its carbon intensity below 800gCO2/lpb, far lower than the industry average of 1,300-2,500gCO2/lpb.

‘This demonstrates our commitment to cleaner energy sources, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and protecting the ozone layer,’ Eze said.

Ajileye added that the factory’s cooling plant is equipped with advanced safety systems that ensure zero ammonia leaks and eliminate harmful emissions. This, he said, not only protects the environment but also guarantees the highest standards of product quality and safety.

Beyond factory operations, the company extends its environmental stewardship through its CSR pillars-Education, Youth Empowerment, Environmental Stewardship, and Community Development (EYEC). Its flagship programme, RiteOnTheBeach, has championed ecological conservation along Lagos’ coastlines by promoting plastic waste recovery, recycling, and community-led clean-ups that generate jobs and fund school supplies for children in underserved communities.

These initiatives, the company noted, reflect its commitment to circular economy practices that reduce waste, empower communities, and protect future generations.

Rite Foods’ efforts have not gone unnoticed. The company was recently named Food Company of the Year 2024 at the Independent Media Awards. Its portfolio-which includes 13 Bigi Carbonated Soft Drink variants, Bigi Premium Drinking Water, Sosa Fruit Drink in five flavours, Nigeria’s No. 1 Fearless Energy Drink, and Rite Spicy Beef and Bigi Beef Sausage Rolls-continues to refresh millions of consumers nationwide, proudly produced to world-class standards.

The Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Independence Day speech, describing it as inspiring and thought-provoking.

In a statement by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, the group praised the President’s call to action for Nigerians to work together towards a brighter future.

According to Yakubu, ‘President Tinubu’s speech was a clarion call to Nigerians to believe in the boundless potential of our great nation.’

The group believes that the President’s message of hope and unity is what Nigeria needs to move the country forward at the moment.

The ATT noted that President Tinubu’s emphasis on national unity and the need for Nigerians to work together towards a common goal is a step in the right direction.

The group believes that unity is key to Nigeria’s progress and development.

The President’s speech highlighted the country’s economic progress, including the growth of the economy, increased foreign reserves, and improved infrastructure.

The ATT believes that these achievements are a testament to the President’s leadership and vision for Nigeria.

The ATT called on Nigerians to heed the President’s call to action and work towards building a better future for themselves and future generations.

The group believes that with collective effort and determination, Nigeria can achieve great things.

In his speech, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of national unity, economic development, and collective effort.

He called on Nigerians to believe in the potential of their great nation and work towards a brighter future.

The President highlighted the country’s progress in various sectors, including the economy, infrastructure, and security.

He also emphasised the need for Nigerians to patronize made-in-Nigeria goods and support local industries.

President Tinubu told the youths, ‘You must continue to dream big, innovate, and conquer more territories in your various fields of science, technology, sports, and the art and creative sector.’

The National Cashew Association of Nigeria (NCAN) has dismissed reports suggesting the existence of an interim leadership within the association, reaffirming that Dr. Ojo Joseph Ajanaku remains its duly elected and recognised national president.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, NCAN described the claims made at a recent press briefing by an unidentified group, stressing that the so-called interim executives do not represent the interests of the cashew industry.

The association explained that its national election was conducted on 23 November 2024 at the FACAN Headquarters in Abuja, where Dr. Ajanaku emerged as president and was duly sworn in by the Board of Trustees.

It maintained that any insinuation of a leadership tussle was a ploy to misinform stakeholders and distract from ongoing efforts to strengthen the cashew subsector.

Responding to allegations that NCAN had delayed the implementation of the cashew industry road map, the association clarified that the document was produced by an international development partner and is currently undergoing review in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS).

According to NCAN, the review is necessary to ensure the framework aligns with Nigeria’s national priorities.

‘The association remains united and focused on advancing the nation’s cashew industry. We assure Nigerians and international partners that NCAN, under the leadership of Dr. Ajanaku, is open for business and committed to driving growth in the sector,’ the statement read.

NCAN therefore urged stakeholders to disregard the claims of what it described as self-styled interim executives, while reiterating its commitment to working with government and private sector players to boost cashew production, processing, and export in Nigeria.

Pharmacists across Nigeria must urgently embrace technology to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, Pharm. John Omale has said.

Speaking at the opening of the 3-day ‘Business Summit 3.0’ organized by the Abuja chapter of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) on Tuesday, Omale stressed that outdated practices can no longer address today’s challenges.

‘Our practices as professionals must evolve to remain meaningful and effective. We cannot continue doing things the same way and expect different results. Technology must be at the heart of that transformation,’ he said.

Delivering the keynote address on the theme ‘Technology Infusion in Healthcare Practices: The Panacea for the Future of Community Pharmacy’, Omale argued that digital tools are no longer optional, stressing, ‘Technology enables us to solve problems, improve efficiency, and achieve sustainable growth.

‘However, we must also recognize that the market, regulations, and mainstream practices are shifting. To survive and thrive, we must adapt, innovate, and adopt standards that ensure quality and profitability without compromising ethical values.’

He linked sustainability in pharmacy to innovation and problem-solving, not inefficiency, ‘Money flows to solutions. When we solve problems effectively, opportunities and resources naturally follow

‘Stronger reliance on data-driven decision-making, collaboration, and innovation is the only way to go,’ Omale said.

Omale highlighted the growing complexity of modern healthcare, stressing the need for patient-specific care and safety in drug use.

‘Technology can help us manage these complexities, improve patient safety, and deliver higher-quality services,’ he noted.

He warned that the benefits of technology would not materialize without investment in people, emphasizing, ‘We must also prioritize training and continuous learning.

‘The world of healthcare is dynamic, and professionals must stay ahead of developments in science, technology, and regulation. Only then can we build a system where every patient receives appropriate, safe, and effective treatment’.

On the challenges facing the profession, Omale identified outdated practices, resistance to change, inadequate standardization, limited access to digital tools, and gaps in regulatory compliance and ethical delivery.

‘Our collective goal should be to modernize our systems, standardize practices, and ensure ethical service delivery. By embracing change and adopting new tools, we can transform healthcare into a system that is patient-centred and sustainable for the future,’ he noted.

The chairman of ACPN, FCT chapter, Aloba Olatunji, described the summit as a platform to empower members and sustain continuous professional learning.

‘As professionals, we don’t stop learning. This summit is designed to put knowledge back into our members, helping us adapt to what is trending in society. The theme for this year is ‘Technological Infusion into Healthcare Practice,” he said.

He noted that while artificial intelligence is being projected as a disruptor, Africa’s peculiar health realities mean pharmacists remain indispensable.

‘Pharmacists in Africa deal with tropical medicine, which technology cannot fully replace. Our members need to be empowered to integrate technology into their practice,’ he explained.

He said an incentive initiative put in place during the summit was necessary to support members facing difficult business environments.

‘Some of our members are doing well, while others are not. Collectively, many are struggling. Information is power, so we need to constantly pass it across so they can blend with what is happening in society,’ he said.

Olatunji also appealed to Nigerians to be patient with government reforms and always seek professional guidance in drug use.

‘A beautiful diagnosis without the right drug, dose, and duration will not give you a beautiful result,’ he cautioned.

On drug regulation, he assured, ‘No pharmacy manned by a licensed pharmacist will dispense prescription drugs irrationally. Your license is at stake. On fake and substandard drugs, ACPN is working with NAFDAC and NDLEA to ensure they are flushed out of society.’

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Board of Pharmacist Fellows for Abuja and Nasarawa commended ACPN for hosting the summit, describing it as ‘a valuable platform to advance pharmacy practice.’

He urged members to ‘remain focused on professional goals despite distractions’ and stressed the importance of unity in pursuing common objectives.

Also delivering goodwill on behalf of the NDLEA FCT Commandant, a representative reaffirmed the agency’s close partnership with pharmacists, calling them the ‘frontline interface with the people.’

He warned of the rising tide of substance abuse and stressed that pharmacists must play an ethical role in preventing misuse.

He commended ACPN for creating a platform to strengthen collaboration, saying the summit was vital in ‘tackling substance abuse and promoting responsible healthcare delivery.’

The empowerment incentives, sponsored by one of the stakeholders, include cars, televisions, refrigerators, and other consolation prizes, while the FCT chapter also packaged inverters for members to power their premises in case of outages.

The national coordinator of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) Door-To-Door Movement, Sunday Adekanbi Asuku, has praised the President’s role in sustaining Nigeria’s unity.

Speaking during a peace walk in Lagos through the southwest coordinator to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day on Wednesday, Asuku said Nigeria’s journey is born out of sacrifice, vision, and the unyielding determination of the country’s founding fathers.

Asuku said, ‘On this glorious occasion of Nigeria’s Independence, we raise our voices in a thankful renewed hope for the journey of our great nation, a journey born out of sacrifice, vision, and the unyielding determination of our founding fathers.

‘Sixty-five years ago, our founding fathers stood tall with courage and hope, sowing the seeds of freedom so that generations unborn could inherit a land of dignity, pride, and boundless opportunity. Today, their legacy lives in us.

‘Nigeria is more than just a nation; Nigeria is the heartbeat of Africa, a tapestry of over 250 million resilient people whose strength lies in diversity, beauty in its culture, and whose destiny is greatness. From the sweat of our farmers to the brilliance of our innovators, from the courage of our youth to the wisdom of our elders, Nigeria continues to rise as a nation destined to lead.

‘We salute President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), the people’s president, whose Renewed Hope Agenda is rekindling faith in a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.

‘We recognise the tireless efforts of our governors across the federation, who are working day and night to turn dreams into reality at the grassroots. Their leadership, together with the resilience of the Nigerian people, is a testament that the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain.

‘PBAT Door-to-Door Movement under the distinguished leadership of High Chief Dr. Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Alias Tompolo, GOC) remains committed to carrying this message of hope, unity, and progress to every household, every street, every community, until every door in Nigeria enjoys the dividend of democracy.

‘For we believe that the true strength of a nation is not only found in its leaders, but in the collective will of its people to build, to endure, and to triumph.

‘Today, we renew our faith in Nigeria. We pray for enduring peace, divine wisdom for our leaders, and prosperity in our economy, security in our land, and unity in our diversity. Let this Independence Day be a reminder that though our challenges may be many but our destiny is certain.

We will together build a Nigeria that stands tall among the nations of the earth. Happy Independence Day to all Nigerians at home and in diaspora!’

Singer Spyro has recounted an emotional encounter with his longtime mentor, veteran musician Faze, during a visit to his home.

According to Spyro, the meeting left him overwhelmed, prompting tears as he reflected on the profound influence Faze has had on his musical journey and personal growth.

He revealed that listening to Faze’s old songs after the visit stirred deep memories and inspired his resolve to create music that carries the same richness and emotional depth.

Sharing his experience on X, Spyro wrote, ‘Yesterday I lost every ounce of steeze and composure as Faze came to my house. When he left, I started playing old songs, and I lost it; I cried like a baby. Those were the songs that formed me, songs that moved my heart. This is what I feel the new generation music lacks, which is what I am trying to bring back with my new album, ‘The Men, the Boys and Your Guy.’

In response, Faze praised Spyro’s authenticity, describing him as ‘totally different and too real,’ and commended him for staying true to himself.

He replied, ‘Can’t lie.’ I’ve got so much for this young man. One very important thing you guys need to know is that this guy is totally different and too real. @spyro__official I want you to know really i appreciate you and appreci ‘HATE’ anybody wey nor like you (if there’s a word like that) you didn’t have to do what you did for me yesterday. You and I know what I’m talking about. Una kuku know say I nor like take but this one I must talk am later. God bless you. Much.’

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has charged all Nigerians to play their part in building the country of their dreams, stressing that no sacrifice made in the service of the nation will be in vain.

In her Independence Day goodwill message on Wednesday to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, the First Lady said every citizen has a role to play in shaping the future of the country.

‘Let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see. Your sacrifice will never be in vain. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,’ she said.

Mrs. Tinubu underscored the importance of patriotism and selflessness, drawing inspiration from global and historical figures who had urged citizens to put national service above personal gain.

Quoting Gebran Kalil Gebran’s 1925 essay, The New Frontier, she observed: ‘Are you a politician, asking what your country can do for you or a zealous one, asking what you can do for your country? If you are the first, then you are a parasite, if the second, then you are an oasis in a desert.’

She also recalled the famous words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy, who in his 1961 inaugural address urged citizens to ask what they could do for their country and, collectively, for humanity.

Tinubu said the celebration of Nigeria at 65 should not merely be about looking back but about committing afresh to the hard work of national development.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, yesterday joined hundreds of Nigerians in mourning Arise News anchor and reporter, Ms. Somtochukwu ‘Sommie’ Maduagwu, 29.

Sommie died on Monday after an armed robbery incident at her residence in the Katampe area of Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

President Tinubu has directed security and law enforcement agencies to track down those responsible for Sommie’s death, a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said yesterday.

Describing the broadcaster’s death as cruel and condemnable, Onanuga said the President ordered investigators to conduct a swift probe to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

He assured Nigerians that his administration was committed to securing lives and property, adding that additional measures were being put in place to combat crime in all its forms.

Mrs. Tinubu described Sommie’s passing as painful and untimely.

In a post on her verified X handle, @SenRemiTinubu, the First Lady said she was saddened by the tragic loss of ‘one of our young and brilliant minds in the journalism profession’.

She said: ‘Her death is painful and quite unfortunate. She has been cut down in her prime. I condole with the Chairman of Arise News Media, Chief Nduka Obaigbena, her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones. It is my hope and prayer that the perpetrators will be apprehended as soon as possible and brought to book.’

Also, FCT Police Commissioner Ajao Adewale has ordered a discreet and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding Sommie’s death.

The police chief assured Nigerians of the command’s commitment to ensuring justice.

A statement by the command’s spokesperson, Josephine Adeh, a Superintendent of Police (SP), said the police commissioner had directed the deployment of intelligence and operational assets to identify, track, and apprehend those responsible for ‘this heinous crime’.

The police also dismissed allegations that the team, which responded to the distress call, turned down appeals to take Sommie to the hospital on the grounds that they had no fuel.

Also, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Minister for Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris; the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) described her death as regrettable.

According to Sanwo-Olu, Sommie was a rising star in the media, and she performed her duties with passion and professionalism.

Idris described her as a vibrant and dedicated professional whose work resonated with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.

The minister assured fellow citizens that a swift investigation would be carried out on the incident.

The FCT Council of the NUJ called for a forensic investigation, saying the incident highlighted Nigeria’s growing insecurity and the need for accountability.

In a statement by its President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), the NBA described Sommie’s death as cruel, expressing concern over reports of alleged medical negligence.

‘The suggestion that her chances of survival may have been compromised by a hospital’s failure to act urgently is shocking and demands accountability,’ said the NBA.

The body of Nigerian lawyers called for a thorough investigation into the robbery and the hospital’s handling of the case.

It stressed that Nigerians must not only be safe from insecurity but must also trust that healthcare institutions would save lives during emergencies.

Also, there are new facts about how the broadcaster died in Abuja.

Giving details during the Arise TV’s ‘Morning Show’, Sommie’s colleague, Ojy Okpe, said she jumped from her room after learning that 14 armed robbers had stormed the building.

Though she survived the fall, she reportedly died after hospital workers allegedly refused to give her immediate treatment.

Her colleagues accused Maitama Hospital in Abuja of negligence, claiming that Sommie and a security guard injured during the attack were denied urgent care because the hospital workers demanded identification documents before treatment.

Ojy Okpe and Reuben Abati described the incident as a preventable tragedy linked to systemic failures in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

Abati condemned the hospital’s conduct, calling it a violation of medical ethics and Nigerian law, which mandates that accident and emergency victims be treated immediately.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has rewarded Team Edo with the sum of N10 million for their impressive outing at the 9th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State.

Team Edo secured third place with a total of 79 medals, comprising 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze.

Announcing the reward while receiving the athletes at the Government House in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo commended their resilience, commitment, and dedication, noting that their performance brought pride and honour to the state.

He encouraged the athletes to stay focused and remain determined to achieve even greater success in future competitions.

‘I congratulate our team for putting in their best and securing third position with 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze medals. This is an impressive achievement, but I challenge you to do more and put in your best to claim first position in the next edition. Edo deserves first place, and with commitment and discipline, we will get there.

‘The state government will continue to support you, but I want to see stronger dedication and more commitment in the coming years. For your efforts, I am pleased to reward you with the sum of ?10 million. I believe with harder training, greater victories await Edo.’

Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mr. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, thanked Governor Okpebholo for his support of sports development and stressed that the administration’s prioritization of athletes’ welfare was a decisive factor in the team’s improved performance.

He presented the second runner-up trophy to the Governor and assured that continued government support would enable the athletes to surpass their current achievement and position.

According to him, ‘We thank His Excellency for providing the enabling environment for sports to thrive. For the first time, Team Edo returned with 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze medals, an unprecedented feat in the history of our participation in the National Youth Games. The motivation came from the Governor’s commitment to the well-being of our athletes.’