Category: Nigerian Tribune

The Federal Government has called for an overhaul of general hospitals across the states to close gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare system and reduce the pressure on tertiary health facilities.

The Director, Reproductive Health Division, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Samuel Oyeniyi, made the call on Thursday at a special webinar, organised by the Doctors Medical Aid Foundation (DMAF), with the theme, ‘Nigeria’s Health Workforce at a Crossroads: Rethinking How We Deliver Care.’

Oyeniyi identified weak state-level general hospitals as a major gap in the country’s healthcare delivery system, noting that many patients bypass secondary healthcare facilities and travel long distances to tertiary hospitals in state capitals.

He said the situation had placed additional pressure on tertiary facilities, with some patients travelling between 120 and 300 kilometres in search of care that could have been provided at general hospitals closer to their communities.

According to him, state governments must take greater responsibility for strengthening general hospitals, particularly in areas of infrastructure, staffing, equipment and service delivery.

‘We have a challenge with our general hospitals in the states. That is one area where we need to look at what we can do differently because people bypass these hospitals and go straight to the tertiary centres,’ he said.

Oyeniyi said the Federal Government was considering ways of supporting the strengthening of secondary healthcare, while also engaging state governments and relevant stakeholders to address the gaps.

He said the issue had been raised in a memorandum to the National Council on Health, stressing that improving healthcare delivery required a holistic approach to workforce planning, infrastructure, commodities, coordination and partnerships.

The director also disclosed that the government was expanding the health workforce through the recruitment of 4,000 nurses and midwives under the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and Basic Health Care Provision Fund arrangements, particularly for facilities with significant workforce gaps and high disease burden.

He added that the government was expanding medical training capacity, with universities increasing admission capacity, while infrastructure was being supported through the Tertiary Education Trust Fund.

Oyeniyi said simulation and training centres were also being developed in Kano and Ekiti to strengthen practical training for health workers.

He further disclosed that the government was reviewing its task-shifting and task-sharing policy in collaboration with professional bodies, including the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria, the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, community health workers and local government authorities.

On the role of private healthcare providers, Oyeniyi said private facilities remained an important component of the health system but noted that their regulation largely fell under state governments, while the Federal Government provided policy direction and oversight.

Also speaking, a health systems and financing expert, Dapo Odulana, said addressing Nigeria’s health workforce challenges required looking beyond the number of health workers to the broader health system.

Odulana identified medicines and human resources as two critical inputs in healthcare delivery, warning that innovations such as task shifting would have limited impact where health workers lacked adequate infrastructure, medicines and other essential commodities.

He called for greater investment across the health workforce value chain, covering production, deployment, welfare and retention, while urging stronger engagement with the private sector.

The Health Systems Strengthening Expert at the Clinton Health Access Initiative, Ruth Adetokunbo, identified four critical areas requiring attention: production, absorption, deployment and retention of health workers.

Adetokunbo said workforce distribution remained heavily skewed towards urban areas, citing an assessment which found that fewer than four per cent of doctors were practising in rural areas, with similar patterns observed among pharmacists and laboratory scientists.

She also raised concerns about the capacity of training institutions, noting that more than 80 per cent of qualified nursing candidates were being directed to other courses because of limited training capacity.

Adetokunbo said efforts to address health workforce shortages must therefore go beyond recruitment to include equitable deployment, retention and provision of the equipment and infrastructure required for health workers to function effectively.

The Head of Training, Primary Healthcare Division, NPHCDA, Dr Gilbert Uwadia, said a functional primary healthcare system required not only the right number and mix of health workers but also adequate infrastructure, medicines and essential commodities.

He said the minimum workforce team for a functional primary healthcare facility should comprise four to five appropriately skilled frontline workers, adding that the agency had revitalised 3,504 primary healthcare centres since 2023.

Uwadia said the agency was also providing job aids and standard operating procedures to improve service delivery, while introducing incentives aimed at encouraging health workers to serve in rural areas.

He listed rural allowances, flexible duty rosters, accommodation, solarisation and other non-financial incentives among measures being used to improve rural deployment and retention.

He stressed that task shifting must be properly supervised and supported with essential commodities, clear referral pathways and appropriate regulation.

Chairman, Board of Trustees, DMAF, Prof Bala Audu, said the webinar provided an opportunity for stakeholders to examine the interconnected challenges of training, deployment and retention of health workers.

Audu said the foundation would sustain conversations around health workforce development and support efforts aimed at improving the country’s healthcare system.

In its closing remarks, DMAF said Nigeria’s health workforce challenge could not be resolved through numbers alone, stressing the need for equitable distribution, retention, conducive working environments and deliberate utilisation of available skills.

The foundation also cautioned that task shifting should complement, rather than substitute, investment in health workforce development and must be based on competence, clear roles, collaboration, supervision, referral systems, regulation and accountability.

The Country Director, Doctors Medical Aid, Dr Hameed Adediran, said an earlier poll among participants showed that 66 per cent identified poor remuneration as the biggest health workforce challenge.

Adediran said 23 per cent cited poor working conditions, while 21 per cent identified inadequate workforce numbers.

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has granted executive clemency to 91-year-old Lamidi Mohammed Garuba and 100 other inmates as part of the celebrations for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. He urged the recipients to embrace this second chance.

The clemency for Lamidi Mohammed Garuba, who is 91 years old, was granted on medical grounds.

Governor Ododo announced this decision during his Independence Day address to the people of the state on Thursday.

He explained that the exercise was carried out in accordance with the constitutional prerogative of mercy and was guided by considerations of rehabilitation, remorse, humanitarian circumstances, public interest, and justice.

The governor emphasised that this decision is significant, as Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary symbolises freedom, responsibility, and the hope of building a better society for future generations.

He stressed that justice should be balanced with compassion, noting that a society committed to justice must also recognise rehabilitation and the possibility of redemption for individuals who show genuine remorse and a readiness to lead responsible lives.

Ododo disclosed that he inaugurated the seven-member Kogi State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy on September 2, 2026, in accordance with the constitutional framework governing the exercise of the prerogative.

The council, chaired by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Yunus Abdullahi, SAN, reviewed relevant case records, considered representations made on behalf of inmates and convicts, examined correctional reports and visited correctional centres across the state.

The facilities visited included correctional centres in Koton Karfe, Kabba, Dekina, Ankpa, Idah and Okene.

According to the governor, the council considered several factors in arriving at its recommendations, including the age and health of inmates, nature and circumstances of offences, period already served, conduct in custody, remorse, rehabilitation, vocational skills acquired, family and community support, interests of victims, public safety and the broader interests of justice.

He explained that 94 beneficiaries were granted mercy based on factors such as old age, medical conditions, good conduct, rehabilitation, remorse and other compassionate considerations, while seven others had their sentences remitted.

Those granted mercy on old-age and medical grounds include Lamidi Mohammed Garuba, 91; Ajagbonna Olufemi David, 72; Yakubu Atabo; Chief Umane Okeme; Saidu Atuluku Yunusa; Hilary Chike Nwaeze; Ebenezer Mopah; Abdullahi Jibril; and Usman Ismaila.

The seven beneficiaries whose sentences were remitted are Tunde Adura, Olusaye Moses Abayomi, Abu Mowde, Zakariyau Baba, Michael Ojonugwa, Rami Sadiq and Salawudeen Sanusi.

Governor Ododo emphasised that the exercise did not diminish the seriousness of the offences for which the beneficiaries were convicted, describing the decision instead as an exercise of constitutional compassion in deserving circumstances.

He urged the beneficiaries to see their release as a fresh responsibility and return to their families and communities as responsible citizens.

‘You have been given another opportunity, and every second opportunity comes with a greater responsibility,’ the governor said.

He urged them to avoid criminal activities and make productive use of the skills, education and lessons acquired during their period of incarceration.

The governor also called on residents, particularly young people, to shun kidnapping, armed robbery, fraud, theft, cultism, drug-related offences and other forms of criminality.

He said poverty, peer pressure and the pursuit of quick wealth should not be used as excuses for criminal conduct, stressing that education, hard work, enterprise, integrity and perseverance remained legitimate pathways to a meaningful life.

Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies and strengthening the administration of justice while protecting citizens’ rights and maintaining firm action against criminality.

He urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, youth organisations and other stakeholders to support government efforts to combat crime.

‘The battle against criminality is not a battle that government can win alone. It is a collective struggle for the soul and future of our communities,’ he said.

Ododo Commends Tinubu

The governor also used the Independence Day address to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as the courage and vision of his administration in pursuing national renewal.

He said the Federal Government’s focus on economic reforms, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education, healthcare, youth empowerment and social investment was aimed at addressing immediate difficulties as well as longstanding structural challenges.

Ododo particularly highlighted the Federal Government’s recently approved deep offshore investment framework, which the Presidency says is expected to unlock up to US$50 billion in new investment and revive major deep offshore developments.

He also cited interventions in education, agriculture, housing, compressed natural gas, domestic refining and other sectors as part of the Federal Government’s broader development agenda.

The governor said Kogi remained aligned with the national aspiration for a stronger, more prosperous and secure Nigeria.

He noted that Kogi’s strategic location at the confluence of the Rivers Niger and Benue, alongside its agricultural, mineral and tourism resources, gives the state significant development potential.

Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, security, human capital development, rural electrification, mining, tourism and enterprise.

According to him, the administration’s objective is to create a Kogi where opportunities are accessible across communities and where government provides the infrastructure, environment and policies required for citizens to create wealth.

The governor further called for unity among the people of Kogi State, irrespective of political, religious, ethnic or social differences.

‘Politics will come and go. Administrations will come and go. But Kogi State will remain our common home,’ he said.

He urged citizens to protect the state, invest in its future and give younger generations reasons to remain proud of their heritage.

As Nigeria marked 66 years of independence, Ododo called on Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and remain committed to building a stronger, more productive and prosperous nation.

He congratulated President Tinubu and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the anniversary, while paying tribute to the country’s founding fathers, soldiers and security personnel serving to protect the nation.

The governor concluded by reaffirming his administration’s commitment to good governance, security, infrastructure development, human capital development, economic empowerment and the creation of opportunities for the people of Kogi State.

‘The Nigeria we desire is possible. The Kogi State we desire is possible. But possibility becomes reality only when hope is matched with action,’ Ododo said.

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Dr Mukail Aremu Akinde, has said the next phase of his administration will focus on strengthening the ‘Engineering Identity’ of the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro (FUTI), with emphasis on hands-on technical skills, research and practical application of knowledge.

According to him, the objective is to create an environment where research can be replicated and applied to real-world industrial and societal needs.

For Akinde, however, the progress recorded over the past four years is not an endpoint,c saying, ‘We haven’t done anything, other than that we have to do more,’ he said.

Despite the expansion recorded under his administration, Akinde has played down the achievements, saying the institution still has much more to accomplish.

Reflecting on his four-year tenure, he said: ‘We haven’t done anything, other than that we have to do more collectively with the council, principal officers, deans, directors, heads of department, heads of units, staff, students and the unions.’

Akinde’s connection with the institution predates his appointment as its head, noting that he started as a clerk in an institution where his late father was a vendor.

He began his career in 1987 as a clerk in the Bursary Department and later worked across several administrative areas before becoming an Instructor on February 11, 1999.

He also studied at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, where he graduated with an ND in Accountancy in 1991 and an HND in Accountancy in 1994.

He added that he later became the pioneer head of the Taxation Department in 2015 and was elected dean in 2018 after a closely contested election in which he won by one vote, 28 to 27.

Recalling one of the individuals who supported his progression within the institution, Akinde said Alhaji Rilwan Egbeyemi, the then registrar, recognised his potential and allowed him to contribute more directly to the development of the institution.

He said the transition from the former Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, to the Federal University of Technology, Ilaro, was progressing, although the process was being handled strategically.

He said committees headed by Professor Rahman Bello, a former VC of the University of Lagos, and Dr Charlotte Bose Iro-Idoro, respectively, had made steady progress on the respective aspects of the transition.

‘Our people should know that the work of changing FPI to FUTI is progressing. Only that thing must be done strategically,’ he reiterated.

He added that the institution was targeting the 2027/28 academic session for the commencement of university education

He also attributed the continued relationship between the institution and its host community to cooperation with the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, HRM Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, MFR, Asade Agunloye IV, as well as the Polytechnic Ilaro Community Forum.

On the challenge of academic staff leaving the country for opportunities abroad, the Akinde-led administration intensified and ensured strict compliance with a policy requiring staff sponsored for international studies to return and serve the institution and the country.

Four years on, the institution is the best polytechnic in Nigeria before transitioning to a University of Technology.

The institution has also expanded from six schools to eight specialised schools, adding the School of Agriculture and the School of Art and Design and Printing Technology, alongside growth in student population, academic programmes, staffing, academic staff, an increase in the number of PhD holders, and non-teaching infrastructure and research activities by winning more Institutional Based Research (IBR) and National Research Fund (NRF) grants of TETFund.

The institution is currently fabricating 11 electric and solar-powered tricycles for transportation on campus to further support the clean energy initiatives of the Federal Government ably led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Schools of Engineering and of Pure and Applied Sciences have also fabricated equipment for the production line of gari processing, waste conversion for use in the farm and printing press, as well as other patented machines awaiting interest from entrepreneurs to use as commercial machines to help the host community.

According to Akinde, government and TETFund interventions have supported the institution’s development, with high-impact interventions, special interventions, agricultural farm grants, grants for Senate Building, Innovation Hubs, and capital expenditure rising from N400 million in 2022 to billions of naira presently.

The institution’s electricity supply is improving with the ongoing 1.56 megawatts of solar energy generation through TETFund intervention.

The acting deputy vice chancellor(Academics), Dr (Mrs) Charlotte Bose Iro-Idoro, said FUTI was preparing to commence with nine faculties, covering engineering technology, sciences, environmental technology, communication and information, administrative and management science, social science, computing, agriculture technology and visual arts.

She added that the institution would also operate a Centre for General Studies.

The Registrar, Mrs Aderonke Folasade Babatola, said the increase in student population and academic programmes had created additional demand for manpower.

She said FUTI currently had at least 80 PhD holders on its staff list, while 371 new staff members had been recruited in two batches of 146 and 225.

Babatola added that the institution was seeking waivers to enable it to recruit more professors.

The Edo State Tourism Agency (EDSTA) has identified technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and the creative economy, as key to the future of tourism in Nigeria.

The agency’s Director-General, Lady Vivian Elabor, made this known as the state marked the 2026 World Tourism Day, observed last Monday under the theme, ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.’

As part of the celebration, EDSTA organised a road walk from the gate of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), followed by a symposium at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA).

Governor Monday Okpebholo hosted the event, while Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, attended as special guests of honor.

Elabor said the celebration provided an opportunity for the agency to explore how Edo State could use technology to showcase its rich culture, heritage, and tourist attractions to a wider global audience.

She said the focus was on how digital tools could help the state tell its story more effectively and create new opportunities through tourism and the creative economy.

The agency emphasized the importance of embracing technological innovation to promote Edo’s tourism potential and expand its reach.

Researchers at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, have identified heterogeneously dense breasts, advanced age, and having had at least five pregnancies as significant predictors of suspicious breast changes, including lumps, among women undergoing three-dimensional mammography.

The study found that women with heterogeneously dense breasts had about 10 times the odds of having suspicious breast changes compared to those with other breast patterns.

Women over the age of 70 also had about 10 times the odds of presenting with suspicious lesions, while grand multiparity-defined as having had five or more pregnancies-emerged as another significant predictor.

The findings were presented at the I-Research and Innovation event organised by the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan.

The study examined sociodemographic, reproductive, and radiological factors independently associated with suspicious findings-classified as BI-RADS 4A to 5-compared to benign findings, classified as BI-RADS 4A-5, compared with benign findings classified as BI-RADS 1-3, among women undergoing digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), commonly known as 3D mammography.

Speaking about the research, Dr Ayo Idowu, a Consultant Radiologist at UCH, stated that the study was designed to identify factors that could help predict suspicious findings among women undergoing DBT.

According to her, DBT uses multiple X-ray images taken from different angles to create a three-dimensional view of the breast, reducing the effect of overlapping tissues and helping radiologists detect and evaluate abnormalities.

The researchers conducted a retrospective, cross-sectional analytical study involving women who underwent DBT at UCH. They found that heterogeneously dense breast tissue was the strongest independent predictor of suspicious findings.

‘Among the factors we assessed, heterogeneously dense breast tissue emerged as the strongest independent predictor of a suspicious final assessment,’ Idowu said.

She noted, however, that menopausal status, family history of breast cancer, and previous breast disease were not significantly associated with suspicious findings in the study.

Idowu stated that the findings underscore the need for further research involving Nigerian women, noting that risk factors identified in studies conducted in other populations may not necessarily yield the same results in Nigeria.

‘We need our own data to look at our women and identify which clinical factors can predict suspicious findings during mammography,’ she said.

She explained that DBT was available at UCH and could be useful for further evaluation of women with dense breasts.

However, she emphasised that women must first undergo mammography to determine whether they have dense breast tissue.

‘You need to undergo mammography before you know whether you have dense breasts. In our study, dense breasts were associated with about 10 times the odds of detecting a suspicious lesion,’ she said.

The radiologist advised Nigerian women to begin regular mammography screenings at age 40 and to continue with annual examinations thereafter.

‘When you turn 40, you should start getting mammograms. It’s not like taking an anti-malaria drug once and forgetting about it. You need to come back annually so we can monitor your health,’ she said.

Idowu stated that women with dense breasts could undergo further assessment using digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) to help radiologists identify suspicious abnormalities that may require additional investigation and treatment.

She said the study aimed to improve breast cancer screening and clinical decision-making by generating evidence specific to Nigerian women.

Idowu urged women to undergo regular breast cancer screenings even when they have no symptoms, stressing that early detection and appropriate follow-up can improve treatment outcomes.

All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Engr. Toyin Okoro, and the incumbent lawmaker, AVM Rufus Ojuawo (Rtd), have traded allegations over the party’s primary election and a petition before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Okoro, through his Campaign Council, accused Ojuawo of actions capable of undermining the unity of the APC ahead of the 2027 general election, while the lawmaker denied any involvement in the petition against the party’s candidate.

The APC primary committee declared Okoro winner of the primary conducted in May, after he polled 9,798 votes against Ojuawo’s 1,842 votes. The constituency comprises Ikere, Ekiti South-West and Ise/Orun local government areas. The result has also been reported by multiple media outlets.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Director of Media, Strategy and Publicity, Yomi Abegunde, the Okoro Campaign Council alleged that Ojuawo had continued to challenge the candidate’s emergence after losing the primary.

The council urged the incumbent lawmaker to pursue any grievance through the recognised internal mechanisms of the party and the courts, where applicable.

Reacting to a purported protest against Okoro’s candidature, the council alleged that Ojuawo was behind the development, arguing that such actions could create tension within the APC at a time members should be preparing for the 2027 election.

‘The outcome of the primary is a matter of record, and any subsequent challenge to the candidate’s emergence should be pursued through the recognised internal and legal mechanisms available to party members,’ the council said.

It also urged Ojuawo to allow the ICPC to independently examine any petition he might have submitted against Okoro.

‘Having invoked the jurisdiction and authority of the ICPC, the appropriate course of action is to allow the Commission, as the competent statutory authority, to independently examine the allegations, conduct whatever investigation it considers necessary, and arrive at its own findings in accordance with the law,’ it said.

The council stressed that the existence of a petition or investigation should not be regarded as proof of wrongdoing until the relevant authorities complete their processes and reach their findings.

Reports in September indicated that Okoro had been invited by the ICPC to respond to allegations concerning his activities while serving as a legislative aide and his alleged links to a private company. The allegations remain subject to investigation and have not been established as findings of guilt.

The campaign council, however, alleged that the disagreement over Okoro’s candidature had gone beyond the primary and could affect the cohesion of the APC in Ekiti.

It said the party’s leadership, including Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other stakeholders, had invested efforts in strengthening the party and urged members to avoid actions that could undermine its preparations for the 2027 election.

The council further alleged that the dispute could be exploited by opposition interests and appealed to party members in Ikere, Ekiti South-West and Ise/Orun to remain calm while established party mechanisms and the courts resolve any outstanding issues.

It also urged those involved not to drag traditional rulers and other prominent individuals into the disagreement.

The council said attempts to overturn the primary result through protests would not alter the outcome, maintaining that the party’s internal electoral process had produced its candidate.

It further alleged that the dispute was part of efforts to frustrate the commitment of Governor Oyebanji and APC leaders to securing President Bola Tinubu’s victory in the state.

The council also made claims about Ojuawo’s political associations and motives, alleging that his actions were connected to wider political interests. Those claims were not independently established in the statement.

Ojuawo denies involvement

Responding through his media office, Ojuawo denied the allegations and said he had no involvement in the ICPC invitation or petition against Okoro.

‘We respectfully advise Engr. Toyin Okoro to concentrate on addressing whatever issues have arisen between him and the ICPC and to allow the appropriate institutions to carry out their responsibilities,’ he said.

Ojuawo said there was no justification for linking him to the ICPC invitation, insisting that he neither initiated nor had prior knowledge of the matter. His media team had similarly denied any connection between him and Okoro’s invitation to the anti-corruption agency.

The lawmaker said he remained focused on his legislative responsibilities and urged political actors to separate political contests from personal hostility.

‘Political contests should end when the contest ends. They should not become a basis for perpetual hostility or the manufacture of narratives against political opponents,’ he said.

Ojuawo added that he remained committed to peace, responsible political engagement and the interests of the people of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I.

The dispute comes against the backdrop of the APC primary in which Okoro defeated Ojuawo to secure the party’s ticket for the 2027 House of Representatives election.

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Oluyole District, Ibadan, on Wednesday donated food items to an orphanage and settled the medical bills of some patients at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Yemetu, Ibadan, as part of activities marking its second anniversary.

The district also visited Children of Promise Ministries, Ashi, Bodija, Ibadan, where it presented various food and household items to support the home and the children under its care.

Items donated included bags of rice and beans, spaghetti, toothpaste, body creams, seasoning cubes, vegetable oil, palm oil, salt, sugar, cornflakes, tissue papers and beverages, among others.

Speaking during the exercise, the Chairman of ICAN Oluyole District, Dr Olawale Dopemu, said the anniversary was an opportunity for the district to make a positive impact on the lives of members of the community.

Dopemu said the outreach was part of the district’s commitment to giving back to society and supporting vulnerable members of the community.

He said, ‘Today is our second anniversary, and one of the points of our activities is to leave a life of impact. That is why we visited the orphanage home, Children of Promise Ministries at Ashi, Bodija, Ibadan.

‘Last month, we organised a quiz competition among secondary schools in Ibadan and also paid the WAEC fees of 100 students as part of our efforts to impact the community.

‘Today, we are visiting the orphanage home to give them gifts, and we are also here at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Yemetu, to support some of the patients. You can only do what is within your capacity, and we are trying to do our best.’

According to him, the donation to the orphanage was made up of essential food and household items needed by the children.

The ICAN chairman also called on individuals, organisations and governments to pay greater attention to the needs of vulnerable people in society.

He said, ‘My advice is that if you have anything to give, let us reach out to the less privileged. At least, they will be happy that they are part of Nigeria.

He added that other activities had been planned as part of the second anniversary celebration, including a programme scheduled for October 11.

In her remarks, the supervisor of the orphanage, Oluwatosin Adelakun, commended ICAN Oluyole District for its gesture and continued support for vulnerable people.

She said, ‘We want to express our gratitude to you for your visit today. Your encouragement, donation and support are the keys to our existence and a pillar to the programmes we provide to the less privileged, orphans and vulnerable children, including widows.

A medical officer at Adeoyo Maternity Hospital, Yemetu, Ibadan, Abibat Nurideen-Busari, appreciated the gesture, saying the donation would provide much-needed relief to patients facing financial difficulties.

She said some patients with serious medical conditions often incur huge expenses on treatment, drugs and other medical needs, making the support from organisations such as ICAN particularly valuable.

Nurideen-Busari said, ‘Thank you so much. We really appreciate your contribution. The donation given to patients who really need this help means a lot because there are some patients with medical conditions that require them to spend so much, and they still need more support.

‘This help will provide some relief for them, assist them in getting drugs, blood for transfusion and also help them settle part of their medical bills. We really appreciate the gesture.’

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has called for urgent reforms in the university system, saying the state of higher education warrants sober reflection rather than celebration.

In an exclusive interview with the Nigerian Tribune, CONUA National President, Dr ‘Niyi Sunmonu said that although Nigerian universities had expanded in number and access, the system remained below the standards the country should aspire to achieve.

Sunmonu recalled the early 1970s, when Nigerian universities, despite being few in number, competed favourably with leading global institutions in teaching, scholarship, and research.

However, he said the decline that became evident in the late 1970s had yet to be reversed, adding that the expansion of universities had not been matched by comparable improvements in quality, infrastructure, research capacity and global competitiveness.

‘We cannot celebrate yet,’ the CONUA president stated.

To address the challenges, Sunmonu called for deliberate, sustained and long-term reforms, beginning with improved and sustainable funding.

He said universities could not deliver quality education without adequately equipped laboratories, modern equipment, functional digital infrastructure and sufficient research funding.

He urged the government to provide predictable funding and ensure that resources were channelled into functional facilities, research support and conducive learning environments.

He stressed that ‘quality assurance must be matched by quality funding.’

The union also called on the government to rebuild confidence in industrial relations within the university system.

Sunmonu said all duly registered unions should have fair and effective platforms for engagement, while negotiated agreements should be concluded and implemented within clearly defined timelines.

He cited the delay in concluding and signing CONUA’s negotiated agreement as an example of the need for a more predictable and inclusive framework for industrial relations.

‘A stable university system should not depend on which union can exert the greatest pressure,’ Sunmonu said.

On staff welfare, the CONUA president demanded fairness over three-and-a-half months of salaries withheld from his members following the 2022 industrial dispute.

He maintained that CONUA members neither declared nor participated in the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike but had yet to receive the outstanding salaries.

According to him, resolving the matter would address a legitimate welfare concern and reinforce the principle that workers should not suffer the consequences of industrial action in which they did not participate.

CONUA also called for increased investment in research and innovation through better funding, modern specialised facilities and stronger partnerships among universities, industries and government.

The union stressed that university governance, including the administration of inter-university centres, should be based on merit, transparency, competence, academic leadership and relevant enabling laws.

It further called for sustained attention to staff welfare and career progression, noting that delays in promotions, allowances, and other entitlements continued to affect staff morale and productivity.

Sunmonu said Nigeria needed to move away from short-term crisis management and embrace long-term reforms capable of rebuilding the university system.

He said the goal should go beyond preventing strikes and resolving salary disputes to creating a university system that was adequately funded, properly governed, research-driven, technologically relevant and globally competitive.

CONUA described the 66th Independence Anniversary as an opportunity for honest assessment and renewed commitment rather than self-congratulation.

‘Nigeria once demonstrated that a relatively small university system could compete with the best in the world. Restoring that capacity requires deliberate policy, sustained investment, institutional integrity, equitable engagement, and faithful implementation of agreements,’ Sunmonu said.

He concluded, ‘There is much to rebuild. We cannot celebrate yet; but we can begin, deliberately and sustainably, to restore the Nigerian university to the level of excellence it once demonstrated.’

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, an Ogbomoso philanthropist, scholar and businessman, Alhaji Monsur Ejide Ayoade, has felicitated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, customers of Ejide Enterprises and Nigerians at home and abroad.

Ejide described Nigeria as a nation of immense possibilities, blessed with human and natural resources capable of placing it among the world’s leading nations.

He said the 66th anniversary should not only be a celebration of independence but also an occasion for sober reflection, renewed patriotism and collective determination to build a more prosperous country.

In his goodwill message, Ejide congratulated President Tinubu and Nigerians for witnessing another milestone in the nation’s journey since independence.

He said, ‘Independence is not merely the freedom we inherited in 1960; it is also the responsibility we owe to generations yet unborn. Every Nigerian has a role to play in building the country we desire.’

The philanthropist commended Nigerians for their resilience, enterprise and ability to overcome challenges, noting that despite the difficulties confronting the nation, the Nigerian spirit of perseverance, creativity and determination remained unshaken.

He urged the Federal Government to continue pursuing policies that would strengthen the economy, support businesses, create opportunities for young people and improve the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, the success of Nigeria cannot be the responsibility of government alone.

‘Government has a critical role to play, but nation-building is a collective responsibility. Businessmen, professionals, traditional rulers, religious leaders, philanthropists, academics, young people and ordinary citizens must all contribute their quota,’ he said.

Ejide also congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State, urging the government and citizens to continue working together to promote peace, economic development and social stability.

He said Oyo State had enormous potential in agriculture, education, commerce, industry, tourism and human capital development, adding that collaboration between government and the private sector was essential to unlocking those opportunities.

The philanthropist, who has supported educational and community development initiatives, stressed the importance of investing in people.

‘The greatest investment any society can make is investment in its people. When we educate a child, empower a young person, support a business or provide facilities that improve learning, we are building the future,’ he said.

Ejide equally extended Independence Day greetings to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, describing the traditional institution as an important pillar of unity, identity and community development in Ogbomoso.

He called on sons and daughters of Ogbomoso to continue supporting initiatives capable of attracting development, investment and opportunities to the ancient city.

‘Ogbomoso belongs to all of us. Whatever our differences, our common interest must always be the peace, progress and development of our town. We must continue to support our traditional institution, our leaders and every genuine effort aimed at taking Ogbomoso to greater heights,’ Ejide stated.

He also expressed appreciation to customers and business partners of Ejide Enterprises, describing them as an important part of the company’s growth.

He assured them of his continued commitment to integrity, quality service and responsible business practices, while thanking them for their confidence and patronage.

‘To our valued customers, your trust is the foundation upon which Ejide Enterprises continues to grow. We are deeply grateful for your patronage, loyalty and confidence. We shall continue to strive for excellence and remain committed to serving you better,’ he said.

Ejide urged Nigerians to make peace, tolerance, justice, compassion and patriotism central to the nation’s development agenda.

He particularly appealed to Nigerians to reject hatred, ethnic suspicion, religious intolerance and divisive tendencies, stressing that the country’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division.

‘Nigeria is our common home. We may speak different languages, practise different religions and come from different parts of the country, but our destiny is intertwined. We must learn to disagree without destroying one another and compete without hatred,’ he said.

He further called on Nigerians in the diaspora to continue contributing their knowledge, resources and expertise to national development.

As Nigeria enters another year of nationhood, Ejide expressed optimism that the country would overcome its challenges and fulfil its potential.

‘I believe in Nigeria. I believe in the Nigerian people. I believe that the challenges before us today will not define our tomorrow. With unity, visionary leadership, hard work, integrity and genuine love for our country, Nigeria will rise to the greatness that God has destined for her,’ he said.

He prayed for President Tinubu, Governor Makinde, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders and all Nigerians, wishing the country peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development.

‘May this 66th Independence Anniversary usher in a new chapter of peace, prosperity and renewed hope for Nigeria. May God bless our leaders, bless Ogbomoso, bless Oyo State and bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that 9,324,349 young Nigerians were newly registered during the 2026 Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercises, as it unveiled nine returning and new Youth Ambassadors to deepen youth engagement ahead of the 2027 general election.

Chairman of the Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan, SAN, made the disclosure at the investiture ceremony of newly appointed Youth Ambassadors in Abuja on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. He was represented by National Commissioner, Prof Rhoda Gumus.

Amupitan said the figure underscored the growing importance of youth participation, stressing that the active involvement of young Nigerians was vital to strengthening democracy.

‘This figure reinforces the critical role of active youth participation in Nigeria’s electoral process, which also helps in shaping electoral outcomes and strengthening public confidence in the democratic process,’ he said.

He said the appointment of Youth Ambassadors was a deliberate step to strengthen the connection between the Commission and the youth population.

‘We believe that youths are more likely to engage with electoral information when it is communicated through credible, relatable and influential voices within their communities and social networks,’ he said.

He urged the ambassadors to use their influence to raise voter awareness, promote peaceful participation, counter misinformation and uphold integrity and impartiality.

In his welcome address, National Commissioner and Chairman, Outreach and Partnership Committee, Prof Kunle Ajayi, called on the ambassadors to speak against electoral violence and manipulation and promote accurate information.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, represented by Deputy Director, Network and Social Mobilisation, Mrs Lami Bature, urged the ambassadors to promote electoral awareness and peaceful participation and join the fight against misinformation and electoral violence.

Director-General, National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, represented by Director, Civic Values and Democracy Education, Dr Olukemi Afolayan, also urged the ambassadors to promote civic responsibility and electoral integrity.

Director, Gender and Inclusivity Department, Mrs Lakunuya Dorothy Bello, said the Youth Ambassadors Initiative, established in 2014, connects the Commission with young Nigerians through credible youth figures to promote voter education and responsible digital engagement.

Deputy Director, Inclusivity, Haj Habiba Abdulkareem Jatto, said the initiative would strengthen partnership with influential young Nigerians and promote greater participation.

The nine ambassadors, drawn from the movie, music and comedy industries, are Amal Umar, Christopher Yohanna (Uncle CY), Alex Kool Ibeh (Mr Kool), Mike Godson, Emmanuel Ikubese, Seun Ajayi, Ibrahim Tukur Bello (Disability Is Not Inability), Sunday Agbaji and Thompson Ukeki.

Highlights included the presentation of certificates, plaques and ambassadorial mufflers, and the administration of the Oath of Commitment.

In a related development, INEC presented a Certificate of Return to the winner of the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency bye-election held on 19 September 2026.

The Certificate was presented to the Member-elect, Hon Kallamu MaiJama’a, by the National Commissioner supervising Gombe State, Rear Adm Jamila Abubakar Sadiq Malafa (rtd), at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.

MaiJama’a commended the Commission, describing the exercise as free, fair and credible.