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Senior Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information Technology, Akeem Oluseye, has called on investors especially those in the technology and innovation sectors to seize the abundant opportunities currently springing up across the state.

According to him, Governor Abiodun is creating a smart, investor-friendly environment where technology, infrastructure, and innovation are driving growth, Oluseye said.

‘Any tech company not already investing in Ogun State is missing the biggest opportunity in Nigeria’s emerging digital economy.’

According to Oluseye, Ogun’s strategic location between Lagos and the Southwest corridor, coupled with its modern infrastructure and pro-business policies, has made it the most promising destination for investors seeking long-term returns.

He noted that the recent commissioning of the Gateway International Airport, the proposed Olokola Deep Seaport, and the development of multiple industrial hubs are clear indicators of the government’s readiness for global partnerships.

‘The digital transformation happening in Ogun is not by chance it’s a product of vision, planning, and leadership,he added. Governor Abiodun’s recent trip to China is already yielding results, with international firms showing strong interest in joining our success story.

‘Ogun State as the Gateway to Africa’s Smart Future emphasising that its rapid growth in technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure positions it as a safe and profitable destination for both local and foreign investors.

‘Ogun State is fast becoming Nigeria’s investment goldmine, and global tech players are being urged to be part of the state’s unfolding transformation.’

President Bola Tinubu returned to Abuja after taking part in the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government-level Meeting in Rome, Italy.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

It said the Aqaba Process is a counter-terrorism initiative launched by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan in 2015. It is co-chaired by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Government of Italy.

‘The Rome edition focused on strengthening regional and international collaboration in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism, with particular attention to West Africa.

‘The high-level meeting was held on Wednesday, October 15, at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rome. Many heads of State and Government attended, including King Abdullah II of Jordan, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and the Presidents of Nigeria, Chad, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, and Togo.

‘Azouz Nasri, President of Algeria’s Upper House, delegations from Côte d’Ivoire, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Senegal, and Uzbekistan, special envoys, and security experts were also in attendance’, the statement said, adding that the meeting was held behind closed doors.

Tinubu used the opportunity to hold several other meetings to advance the interests of Nigeria.

The statement read further, ‘On the sidelines of the event, President Tinubu held bilateral meetings with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and U.S. President Donald Trump’s Senior Adviser on Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos.

‘President Tinubu also met with the Vatican’s Secretary of State, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, to discuss religious harmony in Nigeria. The meeting addressed the widespread disinformation campaigns that falsely portray the country as intolerant of religious diversity.

‘Since its establishment in 2015, the Aqaba Process has convened 33 meetings at various levels, from Heads of State summits to technical expert sessions. It is built on three core pillars: prevention, coordination, and closing operational gaps in counterterrorism efforts.’

Kano State Government has reiterated its commitment to intensifying awareness campaigns aimed at ensuring that millions of residents in the state obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, who also serves as the Chairman of the Taskforce Committee on Voters’ Mobilisation and Awareness Campaign, disclosed that Kano State is currently leading in the national voters’ registration exercise.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Special Duties, Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Sani Abba Yola, a copy made available to newsmen in Kano.

He said, ‘The committee is conducting a strategic planning process to register millions of eligible voters across the state.’

Waiya then commended members of the Quadripartite Alliance for Voters Registration in Kano State for their steadfastness, teamwork, and commitment to ensuring that all eligible voters either acquire new voter cards or renew existing ones during the ongoing registration exercise.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Quadripartite Alliance for Voters Registration in Kano, Dr Yahaya Danjuma Yusuf, explained that the group has developed a grassroots-oriented structure whereby each volunteer is expected to register at least forty (40) people daily.

He noted that the overall target for their members is to register five million voters in the state.

Yusuf then appreciated the commissioner for his continuous encouragement, guidance, and logistical support to the volunteers, describing his leadership as instrumental to the success recorded so far.

In another development, the War Against Drugs Abuse (WADA), Kano State Command, has conferred an Honourary Award on Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya in recognition of his exceptional service, community engagement, and notable contributions to public enlightenment, peace advocacy, and the ongoing fight against drug abuse in the state.

While presenting the award, the Deputy State Commander of WADA, Alhaji Yakubu Abdullahi, said the recognition was well-deserved, given Comrade Waiya’s consistent advocacy for a drug-free society and his active collaboration with relevant stakeholders to curb the menace of substance abuse.

Responding after receiving the award, Comrade Waiya expressed appreciation to the WADA Command for the honour and recognition. He recalled his long-standing partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in the campaign against drug abuse, which earned him a WADA Ambassadorial appointment by the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd).

He reaffirmed his continued commitment to the fight against drug abuse, child abuse, and gender-based violence, as well as to promoting peace advocacy, women’s empowerment, and civic education in Kano State.

Adewale Adeleke, the brother of Grammy Award-nominated artiste, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has stated that the music star’s net worth is over N500 billion.

Adewale made this known on Saturday on X while reacting to a comment by a user on a photograph of himself, Davido, B-Red, and Sina Rambo.

Captioning a picture of the four Adeleke young men at a function, Adewale wrote, ‘HKN GANG.’

Reacting to the photo, an X user, @abazwhyllz, stated that the men in the picture have a combined net worth of over N500 billion.

He wrote, ‘Over 500 billion naira in one picture.’

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Correcting the netizen’s assertion, Adewale said only the ‘Fem’ crooner, excluding him and their two cousins in the picture, is worth over half a trillion naira.

He wrote, ‘David alone is worth more than 500 Billion Naira.’

Adewale, who is a music executive, is Davido’s brother, while B-Red and Sina Rambo, who are the children of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, are cousins to the music star.

In order to promote grassroots sports, talent development, and youth engagement, the management of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) has commenced the establishment of zonal offices across the six geopolitical zones.

The NIS management team, led by the Director-General, Comrade Philip Shaibu, visited Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, to brief him on the Institute’s decision to establish its South-West zonal office in Abeokuta.

According to Shaibu, he is focused on implementing the core mandate of the Institute, which is to engage with the grassroots to discover future talents.

Shaibu said, ‘My vision as the DG/CEO of NIS is to ensure the implementation of the core mandate of the institution – to bring back what sports used to be in Nigeria. Our aim and vision in NIS is to engage our people at the grassroots. Bringing our services down to the grassroots will help us discover more talents, get our people trained, and, in doing that, we are building the sporting ecosystem.

‘This initiative, Your Excellency Sir, aligns with the President’s Renewed Hope agenda, especially with regards to promoting grassroots talent and sports development, youth engagement, employment creation, and overall economic and wealth generation.’

He added, ‘Your Excellency, we visit you today to brief you on our activities in the NIS and also to inform you that Ogun State will serve as our zonal office for the South-West. When you talk about sports development today in Nigeria, your state stands out in terms of talent development, grassroots sports, and youth empowerment. So, we are here to solicit your cooperation in achieving this.’

Responding, Governor Abiodun commended the NIS DG and his team for considering Abeokuta as the South-West Zonal Office of the Institute.

‘The decision to situate this zonal office in Abeokuta underscores Ogun State’s strategic importance and our growing reputation as a hub for sports development and youth empowerment in the region.

‘We assure the NIS leadership of our government’s full cooperation and support towards the successful take-off of this zonal office, which will serve the entire South-West geopolitical zone.

‘This initiative aligns with our vision to promote grassroots sports, talent development, and youth engagement. We look forward to a strong and enduring partnership with the National Institute for Sports as we continue to make Ogun State a true gateway to sporting excellence and opportunities,’ Governor Abiodun stated.

The NIS delegation to Abeokuta included the Registrar, Mr Benson Belmond, Dr Remu Majoroh, Aisha Adoga, and Mrs Ukah.

Personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) have been against involvement in activities that are inimical to the calling of the military profession, as well as in any political activities in the discharge of their professional responsibilities.

The warning was given by Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Usman Abdullahi, the Air Officer Commanding, Special Operations Command, Bauchi, during the 2025 annual 10-kilometre walk and jogging exercise organised by the Nigerian Air Force.

He said, ‘You must remain apolitical. Don’t involve yourselves in any political activities, and do not involve yourselves in activities that are inimical to the calling of our military profession.

‘I urge you to remain loyal to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the President and the Commander in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

Usman Abdullahi also emphasised that the NAF pays serious attention to physical fitness for all its personnel, stressing that the exercise was to increase their cohesion, keep their mental fitness, as well as for them to be on the alert at all times.

He commended the Bauchi State Government for its cooperation and synergy, as well as the creation of an enabling environment for NAF to operate in the State.

Also speaking shortly after the 10-kilometre walk and jogging, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, said that the participants’ outstanding performances were the result of discipline, consistency and determination to succeed.

He said that these qualities were central not only to physical fitness but also to succeed in every area of life, adding that they had demonstrated teamwork, endurance and commitment to the values that made the Nigerian Air Force a model institution.

Represented by his Deputy, Auwal Jatau, the governor said that the exercise was more than just a fitness exercise but a celebration of unity and shared purpose.

He said, ‘Seeing Officers comprising Airmen, Airwomen, sister security services, paramilitary agencies, and NYSC members come together in such a lively atmosphere reminds us that sports and fitness can be powerful tools for strengthening peace and solidarity.

‘Here in Bauchi State, we take pride in the harmonious relationship between the government, the Nigerian Air Force and all security agencies operating within the state.

‘The Special Operations Command and other military and paramilitary formations have played a vital role in maintaining the relative peace and security that our people enjoy today.’

At the end of the exercise, not fewer than 32 people received different prizes for their outstanding performances during the exercise which included Airmen, Airwomen, Nigeria Immigration Service, Customs Service and civilians among others.

Another 15 bodies of Palestinians detained by Israel have been returned to Gaza as part of the ceasefire deal, bringing the total to 135.

Many show signs of torture or execution.

In a brief statement issued on Telegram, the Gaza Health Ministry confirmed that the Red Cross delivered the latest group of bodies of 15 Palestinians detained by Israel.

This brings the total number of bodies received as part of the ceasefire deal to 135, the ministry said.

According to Al Jazeera, 11 members of one family have been wiped out after Israel attacked a vehicle in Gaza City’s Zeitoun for allegedly crossing the so-called ‘yellow line’, demarcating areas of Israeli army control. Israel has killed 28 people since the ceasefire went into effect.

Palestinians in Gaza are still desperate for food and water, as large-scale aid deliveries called for by the United Nations and the international community still face Israeli roadblocks.

Israel’s war on Gaza has killed at least 67,967 people and wounded 170,179 since October 2023. A total of 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the October 7, 2023, attacks, and about 200 were taken captive.

The Ondo State Government has warned that it will no longer tolerate acts of blackmail, cyberbullying, or coordinated attacks against Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and senior state officials.

The government’s position was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Idowu Ajanaku, who said a group of individuals, including ‘two certain legal practitioners,’ had launched a ‘disturbing and coordinated campaign of misinformation’ targeting the governor and his team.

According to Ajanaku, the campaign was being orchestrated by those ‘whose only grievance arises from their failed attempts to secure political appointments, contracts, and financial gain’ from the present administration.

‘When their self-serving demands were firmly rejected-consistent with our unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability-they resorted to despicable acts of blackmail and character assassination,’ he said.

The commissioner alleged that the group recently demanded N200 million, claiming it was for ‘activism in support of the governor and their so-called factional organisation.’

‘Investigations have revealed this entity to be unregistered, fraudulent, and devoid of any legal or operational legitimacy,’ Ajanaku said. ‘Following the government’s refusal to succumb to this extortion, they launched a barrage of coordinated social media attacks targeting the Governor and the Honourable Attorney General of Ondo State with ridiculous and unfounded allegations.’

He described the actions of the group as ‘calculated attempts to destabilise and discredit’ the Aiyedatiwa administration, insisting that their motives were not rooted in patriotism or public interest.

‘Governor Aiyedatiwa welcomes constructive criticism and acknowledges the importance of opposition in a healthy democracy,’ Ajanaku noted. ‘However, he will not tolerate blackmailers masquerading as activists.’

He said the government remains committed to transparency and people-centered leadership, stressing that ‘no amount of blackmail or propaganda will deter’ its mission to foster development and uphold the rule of law.

The commissioner warned that those behind the alleged cyberattacks would face the full weight of the law.

‘We issue an unequivocal warning: those who think they can wield social media harassment and blackmail to intimidate public officials will face swift legal and public repercussions,’ he said. ‘We are fully prepared to invoke every lawful and constitutional measure to hold these individuals accountable.’

Ajanaku added that the government would not allow ‘a handful of desperate individuals’ to tarnish the state’s image for selfish gain.

‘Ondo State belongs to all of us, and we will not stand idly by while a few people attempt to destroy the reputation of our state and its institutions. Enough is enough,’ he said.

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, on Friday, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Anambra State Government to establish Renewed Hope Creative and Cultural Villages, preserving historic sites and promoting economic growth through tourism and job creation.

The partnership aims to restore historic sites, palaces, and monuments, while conserving their cultural significance, and strengthening local craftsmanship through skills development and resources for artisans.

During her visit to Anambra state on Friday, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, who thanked Governor Charles Soludo and the people of Anambra for receiving her, explained that the partnership was the beginning of a brighter and more prosperous future for the people of Anambra State and the entire nation.

‘The creative and tourism industries must become the new oil of Nigeria because they exist in every community and hold immense potential. Flying over Anambra, one cannot help but notice its beauty-lush greenery and vibrant cities that promise great opportunity. This MOU is just the start of a journey that will boost our creative and tourism sectors and propel Nigeria toward a more dynamic and sustainable future.

Musawa said that the MOU, which was about collaboration, will bring together the resources of the federal government with those of the states.

She said, ‘No longer will we work in silos, as President Tinubu envisions a united approach. By combining federal investment, capacity-building, and resources with state-level initiatives, we can strengthen domestic tourism and expand our economy. Each state will be able to adapt the MOU to its own needs and priorities, while the federal government provides full support.’

The Minister also said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision and mission recognise the creative and tourism industries as key players in Nigeria’s future.

She added, ‘These sectors have the potential to boost our economy and create countless job opportunities. Job creation is at the heart of this vision, and the creative and tourism industries are uniquely positioned to absorb many people into the job market.

‘They also play a crucial role in promoting our cities, advancing our culture, and showcasing Nigeria’s soft power to the world.’

Governor Soludo, who was represented by the Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment and Tourism, Mr Don Onyeji, thanked the Federal Government for its intentional focus on the creative industry.

‘The creative industry stands to make people happy, create more jobs, it is about entertainment, tourism, promoting our culture and all of that. Governor Soludo loves the sector so much that you can see that tourism is being developed in the state.

‘You visited the Solution Fun City and the governor has approved a tourism masterplan for the state. We are working on the Agulu Lake, Owerri Ezukala Lake and Waterfalls, Ogbunike Cave, Anam Beach, and we are proposing a City Park; that’s the first step.

‘The rest is also to promote rural tourism, like festivals and our rich culture. Anambra is number one, and we are happy to have the minister visit us. On behalf of the state government, I can assure the federal government that we are ready to move with you.

The collaboration will focus on establishing mixed-use cultural villages with creative hubs, art studios, and performance spaces. Historic sites and monuments will be restored and conserved, and local artisans will receive training and resources to enhance their skills.

The initiative is expected to foster economic growth through tourism opportunities and job creation in the creative and cultural sectors.

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has tasked the 44 local government chairmen in the state to execute developmental projects and be vigilant in managing public funds, emphasising the need for openness and good governance in leadership.

The governor made this call at the opening of a four-day retreat organised by the Kano State Government in conjunction with ANHI Consultants International, held at the Barcelona Hotel in Abuja.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer (PRO), State Ministry for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Aminu Bello Sani, a copy made available to newsmen in Kano.

He said, ‘Transformational leadership is critical in promoting development and combating corruption at the grassroots level.’

He noted that ‘effective governance at the local level requires a commitment to integrity and probity. It demands leaders who are honest, accountable, and dedicated to serving the people.’

The retreat, themed ‘Anti-Corruption, Financial Fraud, Transformational Leadership, and Ethical Values in the Workplace’, brought together local government officials, including chairmen, secretaries, directors of personnel management, house leaders, and treasurers, to focus on the importance of ethical leadership and good governance.

Speaking on behalf of Governor Yusuf, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs, Alhaji Mohammed Tajo Othman, said the training provided for local government officials is designed to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive development and progress in their communities as well as to uphold the highest standards of ethics and morality.

Governor Yusuf then urged local government leaders to prioritise developmental projects such as the provision of feeder roads, ensuring access to primary healthcare services, school construction and renovation, portable water supply, and ensuring the construction of public toilets across densely populated places to address the issue of open defecation.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry for Local Government, Hajiya Fatima Adamu Barde, expressed her profound gratitude to Governor Yusuf for his commitment to ensuring fairness, justice, and responsible leadership at the grassroots level.

The Chairperson of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano State and Chairlady of Tudun Wada Local Government Area, Hajiya Sa’adatu Yushe’u Soja, welcomed participants to the training program and urged the 44 Local Government Chairmen to fully engage with the proceedings.

Dr. Aminu Ibrahim Gusau, a consultant with ANHI, commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s administration for its proactive approach to enhancing leadership capacity, ethical governance, and institutional excellence at the grassroots level.

Earlier, the elder statesman and technocrat Dr Akim Baba Ahmad extolled Governor Yusuf’s responsible leadership, praying for his upliftment in governance after completing two terms in office.

Ahmad also charged the Local Government Chairmen to fear Allah in their undertakings and adopt the spirit of teamwork to move their communities to greater levels.

He noted that the ‘retreat is a testament to the Kano State Government’s commitment to promoting good governance, citizen engagement, and community development in the state.’

‘By working together, local government officials can harness their collective energy and expertise to drive innovation and progress and build stronger, more resilient communities,’ he said