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Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde said he may consider putting forward an individual from within his team as successor in the 2027 elections.

Justifying the decision, the Governor said although the final decision on who take over after him lies with the people, suggesting a candidate from within his team, who would have been evaluated to have good understating of all that his administration is doing will be a sure path to a building on the roadmap for sustainable development beyond 2027.

The Governor spoke on Thursday at the Stakeholders’ Consultative and Engagement Meeting on the 2026 Budget at the Ogunlana Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

He said: ‘If we put anybody forward in our team, what it means is that we have evaluated that individual. It wouldn’t be about the individual per se. If within the team, we have a roadmap for continued development of Oyo State 2027 and beyond and we have people within that team that have already bought into it, that would be the best path forward.

‘Having said that, the decision on who would be the next governor rests with the people of Oyo State. We will make our own submission to the people, because Oyo State has gone beyond stunt politics. Maybe it used to happen in the past. Now, Oyo State people will ask you questions.’

As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stands at a critical crossroads. After years of internal crises, factional battles, and dwindling influence, the party is gradually regaining its footing.

One man who has played a central role in this rebirth is the Governor of Bauchi State and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.

Governor Bala Mohammed has not only proven himself as a competent leader in Bauchi but also emerged as a unifying force within our party at the national level. At a time when disillusionment and rancor threatened to rip PDP apart, his calm but firm leadership at the Governors’ Forum helped stabilize the ship.

Governor Mohammed built consensus where there was discord, rallied governors to speak with one voice, and restored confidence in the PDP as a viable alternative for Nigerians.

The importance of this achievement cannot be overstated. In Nigeria’s multiparty democracy, no political party can thrive without internal harmony. Bala Mohammed’s interventions gave PDP a fresh lease of life, convincing millions of our supporters across the country that the party still has the resilience and capacity to govern. It is therefore only logical that such loyalty, sacrifice, and leadership be rewarded.

Beyond party politics, Bala Mohammed’s record as governor speaks volumes. Under his stewardship, Bauchi has witnessed infrastructural renewal, improved healthcare delivery, agricultural support schemes, and a renewed commitment to education.

His governance style reflects pragmatism, inclusiveness, and a keen understanding of Nigeria’s diversity qualities that are indispensable in national leadership.

A shining example of his inclusive leadership is his accommodation of the Bauchi Christian community, both in government and in daily governance.

He has ensured their active participation in his cabinet, sponsored Christian pilgrims to Jerusalem, and hosted Christmas celebrations at the Government House acts that demonstrate his genuine commitment to unity and religious harmony.

He sees Christians in Bauchi as part of his family, and this rare leadership quality is what Nigeria needs at the national level.

Equally remarkable is his courage in addressing issues previous administrations avoided.

A case in point is his bold move to bring a permanent solution to the Tafawa Balewa Local Government crisis, a long-standing challenge that others chose to sidestep.

He has also tackled the lingering Bauchi water problem, effectively utilizing World Bank funds that had been left idle for years a testament to his foresight and managerial discipline.

Politically, Bala Mohammed’s stabilizing influence goes beyond Bauchi State. His strategic leadership kept the PDP safe from political undertakers who predicted its demise during the rise of the ADC.

Many who defected during the unveiling of ADC have since returned to the PDP a clear indication of his tactical acumen and political resilience. This is what true political calculation looks like.

He continues to play a key role in shaping the PDP’s national strategy, working to ensure that the party presents its best possible presidential candidate be it Peter Obi, Goodluck Jonathan, or other credible figures from the South showing that he prioritizes Nigeria’s unity and the party’s strength over personal ambition.

His decision to support zoning and sacrifice his own presidential aspiration for the sake of national balance underscores his patriotism.

Governor Bala Mohammed is also known for his confidence, eloquence, and fearlessness traits that earned him the traditional titles Kauran Bauchi and later of Daular Usmaniya.

He is the brain behind the formation of the Ministers’ Forum, where he supported the emergence of Kabiru Turaki (SAN) as a national leader. The forum continues to thrive as a space for policy dialogue and coordination among former ministers.

Let us also not forget his contributions to the historic Doctrine of Necessity, which helped bring stability to Nigeria during one of its most uncertain political moments.

His strong sense of nationalism is evident in the inclusivity of his projects whenever he commissions projects in Bauchi, he ensures that people from all parts of Nigeria are invited, fostering a spirit of unity.

Where there were no voices, Bala Mohammed’s voice always rings out in support of the people whether in debates over the tax bill or other national issues that affect ordinary Nigerians.

Even more telling of his character is his enduring loyalty to former President Goodluck Jonathan. Despite the change of power, Bala Mohammed has never spoken ill of his former boss a rare quality in today’s political landscape where opportunism often trumps loyalty.

The PDP has made mistakes in the past by sidelining loyal party men in favor of temporary expediencies. 2027 presents an opportunity to correct this. If the party is truly serious about reclaiming power and offering Nigerians a credible alternative, it must entrust critical positions to men of character, loyalty, and capacity.

Governor Bala Mohammed is such a man. His role in stabilizing the PDP after years of turmoil deserves recognition. Making him the Vice-Presidential candidate in 2027 would not just be a reward it would be a strategic masterstroke for a party that must blend experience with political stability to win back the trust of Nigerians.

The PDP must rise above sentiment and short-term politicking. It must be bold enough to recognize merit and loyalty. Bala Mohammed has earned it.

Nasiru Hanga writes from Kano State.

Nigerian track and field star Blessing Okagbare had double reasons to celebrate as she turned 37.

The former Olympic medalist welcomed the arrival of her baby on her birthday, October 9, 2025.

Taking to her official X (formerly Twitter) page, Okagbare expressed her joy, describing it as her best birthday yet.

‘Best birthday ever. I get to celebrate it with my Oreofe. A very blessed 37th birthday indeed. Lord, you have always done it for me,’ she wrote.

Okagbare, who has long been celebrated for her achievements in athletics, now adds motherhood to her milestones, with fans and fellow athletes flooding her page with congratulatory messages.

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, admitted additional evidence in the ongoing trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, who is facing charges over an alleged $4.5 billion fraud.

Emefiele is standing trial on a 19-count charge bordering on receiving gratification and corrupt demand, filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

His co-defendant, Henry Omoile, is facing a separate three-count charge relating to unlawful acceptance of gifts by agents. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

At the resumed hearing, Justice Oshodi overruled the objections of the defence counsel, led by Senior Advocates of Nigeria Olalekan Ojo and Kazeem Gbadamosi, and admitted as evidence a bundle of documents extracted from the mobile phone of John Adetola, a former Executive Assistant to Emefiele.

Ruling on the admissibility of the materials, Justice Oshodi stated, ‘The court overrules the objection of the defence counsel and admits the documents as Exhibit G.’

Following the court’s ruling, the prosecution’s witness, Alvan Gurumnaan, continued his testimony and read out WhatsApp conversations contained in Exhibit G. The chats allegedly revealed that Omoile instructed Adetola to deliver $400,000 to ‘Oga,’ a term the witness said referred to Emefiele.

Led in evidence by EFCC counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo (SAN), Gurumnaan testified that Adetola had confirmed during interrogation that the $400,000 was handed to a CBN official named Ayo, who served as Emefiele’s personal assistant.

‘John Adetola confirmed that he went to Lekki, Lagos, where he met Ayo and delivered the $400,000. He later proceeded to the CBN office in Lagos, where he handed the money over to Mr. Emefiele,’ Gurumnaan told the court.

He further alleged that another $200,000 was delivered through the same channel. ‘This time, Ayo personally handed the money to Emefiele in his office,’ the witness added.

According to Gurumnaan, a CBN contractor, Victor Oyedua, confirmed providing the $400,000 and $200,000 to Ayo as part of an arrangement to ‘settle management’ to facilitate payment for pending contracts with the CBN.

The prosecution also tendered additional documents obtained from the apex bank and a company letter dated February 24, 2024, which Justice Oshodi admitted as Exhibit H despite objections from the defence.

A Mi 10T smartphone belonging to Adetola, which was reportedly seized while still powered and in flight mode, was admitted as Exhibit I.

The EFCC further sought to tender statements allegedly made by Emefiele during investigation. However, the defence objected, claiming the statements were obtained under duress.

Following the objection, Justice Oshodi ordered a trial-within-trial to determine the voluntariness of the statements. He directed both parties to report on the progress of forensic inspection by November 21, 2025.

The case was subsequently adjourned till December 2 and 3, 2025, for continuation of trial.

A notable northern policy group, the Arewa Think Tank (ATT), has concluded arrangements to hold its Nigeria Independence Day Anniversary Lecture on October 30, 2025, in Kaduna.

Among the prominent personalities expected at the event is Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who will deliver the keynote address on the theme: ’65 Years of Nigeria’s Independence: The Journey So Far with the Renewed Hope Agenda in View.’

Other dignitaries expected to grace the occasion include the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, and several serving ministers from the Federal Executive Council.

According to a statement by the Convener of ATT, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, northern elders, technocrats, and captains of industry will also be in attendance.

Yakubu explained that the event, earlier scheduled for October 9, 2025, was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the planning committee.

‘We have now reached a concrete conclusion that the lecture will hold on the new date, October 30, 2025, at the same venue, the Auditorium Hall of Arewa House, Kaduna,’ he said.

‘We are grateful to our supporters and partners who have stood by us this far, and we sincerely apologise for any inconvenience the change of date might have caused our esteemed guests.’

Yakubu noted that President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day address served as a clarion call for Nigerians to rekindle faith in the nation’s limitless potential.

He said the group aligns with the President’s message of hope, unity, and national rebirth, describing it as the moral compass needed to drive Nigeria’s development at this critical juncture.

The ATT, he added, firmly believes that national unity remains the foundation for Nigeria’s progress and collective advancement.

Nigerian film of the year, ‘Thicker Than Water,’ a psychological drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat is set for release.

Directed by Yomi E. Adejumo and produced by Joshua Enakarhire, this film promises to deliver a thrilling narrative that explores the complexities of human relationships and the depths of sisterhood.

The film follows Ese, a photojournalist who embarks on a journey to find her long-estranged sister, only to discover that her sister’s disappearance is linked to a dark and sinister plot. As Ese delves deeper into the mystery, she finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and lies that threaten to destroy everything she holds dear.

‘Thicker Than Water’ is a psychological drama, romance, mystery, and thriller set to premiere on Amazon Prime Video on October 10, 2025.

The film features Adaobi L. Dibor as Ese, a determined photojournalist, alongside Bimbo Ademoye as Onome, Taye Arimoro as Kazeem, and Damilola Ogunsi as Ola. The supporting cast includes Toyosi Benjamin, Mawuyon Ogun, Pamilerin Ayodeji, Diana Egwuatu, Jemima Adelekan, and Chikere Bright in various roles.

The Northern Ethnic Nationalities Forum (NENF) has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would restore public confidence in the electoral process.

The group also described his historic appointment as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

A statement on Thursday in Abuja by the Chairman of NENF, Dr. Dominic Alancha, said the appointment reflects a commitment to meritocracy and national inclusiveness.

The statement reads: ‘As a Forum believes he will steer the Commission with independence, transparency, and excellence at a time when our democracy requires bold, ethical, and visionary leadership.

‘The Northern Ethnic Nationalities Forum also wishes to express profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making this strategic and commendable choice, as well as to the Council of State for their endorsement and support of Prof. Amupitan’s nomination.

‘This decision demonstrates a clear commitment by the current administration to electoral reform, national unity, and competent leadership across all arms of governance.

‘We believe this appointment will inspire confidence among Nigerians, particularly the youth, and the organised civil society and serve as a catalyst for a more credible, technologically advanced, and peaceful electoral process in the years to come.

‘We are especially proud that this appointment reflects the Federal Government’s recognition of the deep well-being of talent and integrity that exists within the North-central region and among its diverse ethnic nationalities. Prof. Amupitan stands as a shining example of the excellence that our region contributes to national development.

‘As stakeholders in the democratic project, we call on all Nigerians-regardless of region, ethnicity, or political affiliation-to support Prof. Amupitan, as he embarks on this crucial national assignment.

‘Once again, we congratulate Prof. Joash Amupitan, and we assure him of our prayers and unwavering support in his quest to reposition INEC as a truly independent and trusted institution.’

The House of Representatives has called for strict enforcement of compliance with the provisions of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act, 2022, particularly as it concerns the participation of private companies in the mandatory health insurance scheme for employees.

This followed the adoption of a motion titled ‘Need to Enforce the Compliance of the Provision of Health Maintenance Organisations (HMO) in Private Companies,’ sponsored by Hon. Felix Uche Nwaeke during Thursday’s plenary.

Presenting the motion, Hon. Nwaeke expressed concern over the widespread refusal of many private companies across the country to comply with the law mandating them to enroll their staff in accredited Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs).

He noted that the National Health Insurance Act, 2022, makes health insurance compulsory for all Nigerian employees in private establishments with more than five staff members, in addition to those in the public sector.

According to him, the NHIA is empowered to grant accreditation and regulate the operations of HMOs in the country to ensure that both employers and employees have access to suitable and sustainable healthcare plans.

Nwaeke further explained that under the Act, private companies and employers are required to contribute 10 percent of an employee’s basic salary, while the employee contributes 5 percent, making a total of 15 percent, meant to guarantee access to healthcare services.

However, he lamented that ‘most private companies have totally refused to enroll their staff or make the mandatory contributions to the scheme,’ thereby exposing employees to severe health risks and financial hardship during medical emergencies.

He warned that the non-compliance by private companies not only undermines the intent of the NHIA Act but also deprives workers of the health benefits and protections guaranteed by law.

‘The refusal of employers to enroll staff into any healthcare plan leaves many workers to their fate in times of sickness, with no form of institutional support,’ he said. ‘This defeats the essence of the health insurance reform, which was designed to make healthcare accessible and affordable to all Nigerians.’

Adopting the motion, the House urged the National Health Insurance Authority to immediately begin compiling data on defaulting private companies and to sanction those found to be violating the law.

It also mandated the House Committee on Healthcare Services to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Act and to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.

Lawmakers emphasized that enforcing compliance would not only promote the health and well-being of Nigerian workers but also strengthen the country’s health insurance system and reduce the burden on public hospitals.

The motion was widely supported by members who described it as timely and necessary to ensure accountability in the private sector’s role in national healthcare delivery.

With the House resolution, attention is now on the NHIA to act decisively against erring companies and ensure that every eligible employee in the private sector is enrolled in a certified health insurance scheme as stipulated by law.

As part of its renewed commitment to tackling preventable blindness, the federal government plans to distribute five million pairs of free reading glasses within the next three years, it emerged on Thursday.

In addition, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation to strengthen comprehensive eye health services in Nigeria.

The MoU focuses particularly on refractive error treatment and capacity building to improve nationwide access to quality eye care.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Adekunle Salako, revealed these during the 2025 World Sight Day commemoration in Abuja, where he reaffirmed government’s determination to improve eye health and reduce preventable blindness across Nigeria through the integration of Primary Eye Care (PEC) into the Primary Health Care (PHC) system and other targeted interventions.

The initiative, launched under the Effective Spectacle Coverage Initiative Nigeria (ESCIN), also known as Jigibola 2.0, aims to reduce visual impairment caused by uncorrected refractive errors.

Salako explained that refractive errors such as presbyopia remain the most common causes of visual impairment in Nigeria.

He added that ESCIN aligns with the 74th World Health Assembly’s target of increasing global refractive error coverage by 40 percent by 2030, saying, ‘Investing in eye health today is an investment in Nigeria’s future.

‘By prioritizing eye health, we are building a brighter, more productive, and more prosperous nation’d.

Salako, who was represented by the Ministry’s Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Jimoh Salaudeen, emphasized that good vision is central to national development and individual productivity, noting that impaired sight can hinder education, reduce workplace efficiency, and slow economic growth.

Highlighting Nigeria’s global commitments, he recalled that the country joined other UN member states in adopting the General Assembly resolution ‘Vision for Everyone: Accelerating Action to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals,’ which seeks to end preventable sight loss by 2030.

‘Evidence shows that blindness prevention contributes directly to poverty reduction. Following successful cataract surgery, 46 percent of households move up the economic ladder, improving food security and livelihoods,’ Salako said.

The Minister outlined key government efforts to strengthen eye health services nationwide, including the development of the National Eye Health Policy (2019) and the National Eye Health Strategic Development Plan (2023-2027), which together provide a framework for expanding eye care delivery at all health levels.

According to him, integrating PEC into PHC services will make eye care more accessible to Nigerians in rural and low-income areas, especially women and the elderly.

‘We have trained 12 master trainers across the six geopolitical zones, developed data collection tools for PHC facilities, and enhanced the capacity of primary healthcare workers to manage simple eye conditions and improve referrals,’ Salako said.

While presenting the details of the MoU, Raphael Okumu, Associate Director of Partnerships at the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation, Africa Chapter, said the collaboration reflects a shared goal to reduce preventable vision loss through sustainable, community-based eye health programs.

‘A pilot phase involving at least three vision centers will assess progress and guide future expansion,’ Okumu explained.

Under the MoU, the Foundation will provide equipment, training, and infrastructure support, while the Ministry will offer health facility space, personnel, and regulatory oversight.

The partnership, he said, aims to establish self-sustaining vision centers nationwide and expand access to affordable eye care.

Earlier in her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Kachollom Daju, commended eye health professionals and development partners for their dedication and contribution to reducing visual impairment in Nigeria.

Represented by the National Coordinator, National Eye Health Programme at the Federal Ministry of Health Abuja, Dr Oteri Okolo, the Permanent Secretary urged Nigerians to prioritize regular eye check-ups and early detection, warning that vision loss carries serious economic and social consequences, particularly in a youthful and rapidly growing nation like Nigeria.

‘I therefore want to use this opportunity to advocate for routine eye exams and greater public awareness on early detection,’ she said.

Also speaking at the event, renowned musician and producer, Cobhams Asuquo, advised Nigerians, especially young people to take their eye health seriously, noting that good vision is vital for personal development and societal progress.

World Sight Day, celebrated annually under the auspices of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), aims to raise global awareness about the importance of eye health.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has approved the appointment of new members into the Oyo State Independent Electoral Commission (OYSIEC) and the Governing Council of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.

According to appointment letters signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, eight persons were named to serve on OYSIEC, while seven others were appointed to the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital governing council.

Comrade Adeniyi Afeez Babatunde was appointed as the new Chairman of OYSIEC. Other members include Olatunde Akintunde Theophilus, Mrs. Adebayo Mariam Adepeju, Mr. Olanrewaju Emmanuel, Chief Kunmi Agboola, Mr. Remi Ayoade, Mr. Sunday Falana, and Mr. Babatunde Ige.

The newly appointed members of the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital Governing Council are Prof. Banji Oyeyinka Oyelaran (Chairman), Mr. Olatunde Gabriel Oyelade, Dr. Bello Adebayo Taiwo, Mrs. Isola Agnes Bolanle, Dr. Akintunde Kehinde Ayinde, Prof. Olawale Adebayo Olakulehin, and Prof. Adenike Olugbenga-Bello.

Governor Makinde charged all appointees to perform their duties with diligence, dedication, and loyalty to the state, noting that the appointments take immediate effect.