Category: The Nation – Nigeria

Hon. Steve Oruruo has assumed duty as the new acting chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State with a pledge to rebuild, reposition and reenergise the party following the recent defections of Governor Peter Mbah and other top members.

Speaking during a briefing at the party’s secretariat in Enugu, Oruruo assured members and supporters that the PDP remains strong and united despite the political shake-up.

‘The intent of this gathering is to assure the people of Enugu, nay Nigeria, that PDP is still very much alive in Enugu State,’ he declared. ‘We’re willing at the moment to rebuild the party in the face of the current defections of Governor Peter Mbah and other elected officials of the Enugu State Government.’

Oruruo said his leadership would focus on galvanizing the party’s faithful to remain steadfast and committed to its ideals, noting that the party had faced similar challenges in other states and still stood firm.

He promised to ensure credible conventions and primaries that would produce quality candidates capable of earning the trust and support of the electorate, emphasizing that the PDP is entering a new phase of renewal and renaissance.

‘We’re creating a sense of reawakening. Even in the face of persons leaving the party, it does not amount to the capitulation of the PDP,’ he said. ‘If credible candidates emerge from our ranks, the public will rally behind them.’

While acknowledging that the governor’s departure might have financial implications, Oruruo maintained that the will of the people would continue to drive the party’s strength and direction.

He assured that under his watch, the PDP in Enugu would uphold fairness, equity, and a level playing field for all members, stressing that the party would remain independent and people-oriented.

‘We want to stand and create a party that will win elections. We’re building a PDP that is highly independent. We can’t win elections if we’re not independent,’ Oruruo stated.

On the relationship between the state and national leadership of the PDP, Oruruo called for greater inclusivity of the Southeast in the party’s national structure and decision-making process.

‘The Southeast must be encapsulated fully in everything that the PDP is doing at the national level,’ he said. ‘Going forward, the Southeast must be included in all political calculations and permutations so that our people can remain resolute behind the party.’

Oruruo, a former Commissioner for Information, vowed to lead with transparency, sincerity, and justice, adding that his goal is to build a stronger and more cohesive PDP capable of winning future elections.

He concluded by reaffirming that the PDP in Enugu is ‘in pole position to accommodate the yearnings of our people’, as the party embarks on a fresh journey to restore its dominance in the state’s political landscape.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tributes to business magnate and philanthropist, Chief Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu, on his 90th birthday, describing him as a national icon, cultural pride, and a silent giver whose life embodies hard work, humility, and enduring service to humanity.

In a statement personally signed by the President on Friday, Chief Adebutu was celebrated as ‘one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs,’ whose remarkable achievements in business, philanthropy, and culture have left indelible footprints across generations.

‘From a humble background in the serene town of Iperu-Iremo, where his life’s journey began, Chief Adebutu rose to national prominence as a businessman, philanthropist, and cultural icon who embodies the virtues of hard work, honour, and compassion,’ the President said.

Tinubu, who described Chief Adebutu as a dependable friend and loyal brother, praised his integrity, humility, and resilience, noting that their relationship has been built over the years on mutual respect and admiration.

‘Through his admirable personality, business acumen, resilience, and benevolent spirit, Chief Adebutu distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding entrepreneurs. His remarkable contributions to business, philanthropy, culture, and national development are footprints that will endure across generations,’ Tinubu stated.

The President highlighted Chief Adebutu’s pioneering role in Nigeria’s modern lotto business, which he said created jobs, sustained families, and inspired young Nigerians to pursue enterprise with integrity.

Beyond his business exploits, Tinubu extolled Adebutu’s philanthropic impact through the Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation, which has provided scholarships to indigent students and supported community development, youth empowerment, and sports.

‘He has remained a silent giver, touching lives without fanfare. Chief Adebutu’s generosity and commitment to the common good distinguish him among our country’s wealthy individuals,’ the President remarked.

Tinubu also acknowledged Adebutu’s contributions to democratic consolidation, peacebuilding, and cultural preservation, noting that his numerous traditional titles – including the revered Odole Oodua – are fitting honours for his lifelong service to the Yoruba people and Nigeria as a whole.

‘On this special anniversary of his 90th birthday, I thank Chief Adebutu on behalf of the nation for bringing joy, opportunities, and livelihoods to countless families through his businesses and philanthropy,’ Tinubu said.

He wished the celebrant many more years of good health, happiness, and continued contributions to national progress.

Kiddwaya, son of billionaire Terry Waya has revealed that his ‘occupation’ is living off his dad’s wealth and enjoying life to the fullest.

The BBNaija star said he’s a man of leisure, not interested in work or business and prioritises having fun and travelling with friends.

In a podcast appearance on ‘Off The Record’, Kiddwaya said his idea of living life to the fullest involves waking up, deciding on a destination, and partying with friends.

According to him, he’s unapologetic about living off his dad’s wealth and says he’s giving the world ‘the truth they want to hear’, that he’s a rich man’s son living life to the fullest.

He said: ‘What I do for a living is that I wake up, I decide what destination I want to fly to, I go that destination, I’m with my boys and girls and have fun; we drink, eat, and party. And we repeat.

‘I’m a man of leisure. My view on life is live it to the fullest. I’m not interested in working. I can tell you I am into oil and trade but that is not my truth. It was my truth before, trying to figure out how to tell the world what I do. The world is not trying to hear that. So, I’m giving them my truth and also the truth they want to hear, which is I am a rich man’s son and I’m living my life January to January. I’m having fun.’

Kiddwaya also shared his views on marriage, saying he’d marry someone who shares his love for fun and doesn’t plan to change his lifestyle.

He claims to ‘work hard’ to maintain his integrity and family’s reputation by avoiding scandals, arguing that many would misuse his privileges if they were in his shoes.

MEYER PLC, paint manufacturer, has upskilled painters and others, in an interactive and empowernent outing, called the Painters’ Forum, in Lagos. It brought together painters from Abeokuta, Ibadan, Lekki, Badagry, and others.

The event served as a platform for the company to deepen its relationship with painters while unveiling innovations in its product range.

Managing Director, Henshaw Nwaorgu, introduced the firm’s latest product, Meyer Sleek Emulsion, and highlighted modern safety practice for painters as part of the company’s 2025 technical update.

Nwaorgu noted that the Meyer brand had undergone improvement over the years, assuring that the company would attain the apex of quality and customer satisfaction.

‘Meyer paints have improved, and this progress will not stop until we achieve the highest quality and ensure full satisfaction,’ he said.

He lauded painters for their loyalty and contribution to the company’s growth, describing them as ‘indispensable partners’ in Meyer’s success story.

The interactive session saw Technical Head, Makendi Ayodeji; National Sales Manager, Curtis Adekunle; and Eniola Kehinde engage participants on issues from product performance and safety standards to marketing strategies and the firm’s wall-satin paint.

Participants took part in a gift bonanza and lucky-dip, where winners got protective gear, tools, and other items.

A beneficiary, Mr. Ola, a Meyer user, described the forum as ‘one-of-a-kind.’ Having won a modern spray machine, he praised the brand’s quality and affordability, noting that his new tool now enables him to complete a three-hour job in just ten minutes.

Other participants lauded the forum for its practical insight, strong networking, and demonstration of Meyer’s commitment to uplifting the painting profession in Nigeria.

An Osun East Senatorial District aspirant, Francis Olaniyi, has lauded the conferment of award of honorary Fellow of the Centre for Leadership and Management on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, by the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), in recognition of what it called his exceptional contributions to national development, public service and visionary leadership.

The conferment took place at the university auditorium during the institution’s first Distinguished Lecture and Conferment of Award Ceremony, organised by the UNILORIN Centre for Advancement.

Olaniyi, who was at the event to felicitate the former Osun State governor, congratulated him on the honour bestowed on him by the institution.

Olaniyi, the Majobaote of Ipetu Ijesa, said: ‘The award is a well-deserved one. It’s a recognition of our leader’s selfless service to the people of Nigeria. It’s a recognition of his sterling performances in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.”

Olaniyi, whose political structure is popularly known as Ijoba Federal, told the audience that naming the centre after the minister was a good step in the right direction,

‘The minister is working effectively to transform the country’s blue economy into sustainable national development,’ he said.

The ceremony featured unveiling of Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy, established by the university to promote research, innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The centre was named in honour of the minister for his role in advancing the nation’s blue economy agenda.

Delivering the maiden Distinguished Lecture titled: ‘The Nexus between Blue Economy and Higher Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria’, Oyetola described the blue economy as a transformative pathway for sustainable national growth, driven by the responsible use of ocean, sea and inland water resources..

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Nigerians to remain resolute in protecting the rights of women and the girl-child.

Abubakar made the call yesterday during a high-level town hall meeting on promoting peace and security through women’s inclusion and access to justice, in Sokoto.

The meeting, organised by Global Rights in collaboration with UK International Development and The Kukah Centre, served as a platform for inclusive dialogue on the interlinking issues of peace, justice, and women’s participation in conflict response and recovery.

Abubakar, represented by the District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar, emphasised that Gender-Based Violence (GBV) has become a growing phenomenon that requires an all-inclusive approach, describing it as a grave offense against humanity.

‘We must stand for women. They are our mothers, wives, and daughters. Violating their rights is a violation of humanity, and protecting them is non-negotiable.

‘ It is evidently clear that ending GBV in Sokoto and Nigeria is possible, and the path is clear for all of us.

‘Moreover, women are peacebuilders and community-oriented; they remain the foundation of our brighter future,’ he said.

Abubakar commended the state government for its sustained efforts in including more women in decision-making processes, noting that such initiatives have continued to yield positive results.

He also appreciated Global Rights and its partners for organising the meeting and urged participants to take full advantage of the opportunity to strengthen the initiative’s success.

In her remarks, Mrs Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights, expressed concern that the North-West region continues to face persistent security challenges.

‘In the face of insecurity and violence, women continue to demonstrate resilience, sustaining families and building communities.

‘Their experiences and leadership are of immense value, yet they continue to suffer various forms of violence.

‘ Women’s participation in peace and security processes, as well as their access to justice, remain very limited,’ she said.

Baiyewu stressed the need to change societal perceptions about women, urging communities to recognise women as agents of peace, security, and justice.

She called on the participants to use the dialogue as a platform to promote inclusion, equity, and justice for sustainable peace in the North-West and across Nigeria.

Also speaking, Mr Cliff Gai, Senior Programme Manager, UK Integrated Security Fund (UK ISF), described the meeting as a strong demonstration of commitment to promoting access to justice in Sokoto and across the country.

‘This gathering is not just a meeting but a strong commitment to promoting community participation in ensuring justice and addressing all forms of violence in our society,’ he said.

The Kogi West FGYB Legacy Group, comprising stakeholders from the seven Local Government Areas of Kogi West Senatorial District, has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for re-election.

The endorsement is contained in a communique at the end of a strategic meeting held in Kabba, Kogi State, on Saturday, October 11, 2025.

The communique was signed by its Drafting Committee Chairman, Kingsley Olorunfemi Fanwo; Secretary, Tanko Mohammed; and Member, Shaibu Ipinmisho on behalf of the group.

The stakeholders unanimously passed a vote of confidence in President Tinubu, citing his bold economic reforms, efforts towards energy stability, and massive infrastructural development across the nation.

They pledged over 90 percent of the votes from Kogi West Senatorial District in future elections, in recognition of his people-oriented leadership.

The meeting commended Ododo for his impactful leadership and remarkable achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, and humanitarian development.

The stakeholders particularly lauded the governor’s strategic approach to tackling security challenges across the State, especially in Kogi West, and for fostering peace and stability in all communities.

The meeting applauded the Governor for his ongoing and completed projects across Kogi West Senatorial District.

These include: including massive projects at the Kogi State University, Kabba, the Model Secondary School, Okebukun, and the Township Road reconstruction projects in Mopa and Ayetoro Gbede.

The stakeholders commended the take-off of projects at the U.K-funded College of Education (Technical), Mopa.

They expressed deep appreciation for the Governor’s personal visit to troubled areas and his efforts in ensuring security in the Senatorial District.

The group called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and citizens to support government efforts towards restoring and sustaining peace across Kogi State.

They reaffirmed their unwavering support for the administrations of President Tinubu and Governor Ododo, pledging to mobilize citizens in support of government policies.

The meeting commended security agencies for supporting Governor in ensuring security in District. Local hunters also commended for complementing security agencies in Kogi West.

The stakeholders resolved that leaders of every LGA in Kogi West should mobilize people to participate in Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), and commended the stakeholders’ turnout.

Earlier, during the meeting, the APC Chairman, Kogi State, Hon. Abdullahi Bello, said party is for progressive people with loyal leaders.

He commended former Governor Yayaya Bello raising people at the grassroots and laid a solid foundation for the incumbent Gov Ahmed Ododo to build on.

He emphasised that APC stakeholders meeting would strengthen the party in the state and the country at large.

Bello urged members to be focused and united, and beware of inexperienced and self-centered politicians.

The APC Chairman commended President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigerians urged party members sustain support for Tinubu and Gov. Ododo.

The Commissioners: for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones; for Finance and Budget Planning, Hon. Asiwaju Idris; and for Environment and Ecological Management, Hon. Olusegun Joseph, spoke on behalf of Kabba-Bunu, Yagba East and Yagba West respectively, lauded Gov. Ododo and President Tinubu’s unprecedented achievements.

The meeting was attended by all Commissioners, LG Chairmen, Assembly members, Federal Lawmakers and all former and present political appointees from Kogi West, as well as former Sen. Smart Adeyemi.

Other Signatories for each of the seven LGAs are: Rt. Hon. Aliyu Umar Yusuf, Speaker, Kogi State House of Assembly – Lokoja LGA; Cdr Jerry Omodara rtd, State Security Adviser – Kabba/Bunu; and Dr. Mrs Folashade Ayoade – Secretary to the State Government – Yagba East.

Others include: Hon. Kingsley Fanwo- Commissioner for Information and Communications – Mopamuro LGA; Engr. Bashir Gegu, Commissioner for Solid Minerals – Kogi LGA; Engr. Olusegun Joseph, Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management – Yagba West; Dr. Helen Adeniyi, Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology – Ijumu LGA.

Rapper Erigga has stated that the ongoing feud between colleagues Odumodublvck and Blaqbonez is detrimental to the hip-hop scene.

In an interview on Yanga FM, Erigga claimed the beef is creating tension and forcing other rappers and fans to take sides.

According to Erigga, fans are partly to blame, as they ‘like it when rappers fight.’

He argued the feud is giving hip-hop a bad image and allowing outsiders to criticise the culture.

He added that the focus should be on celebrating hip-hop achievements, rather than fueling conflicts.

‘Nigerian fans like it when rappers fight. The ongoing beef between Odumodublvck and Blaqbonez is bad for the culture because it enables people who don’t love our culture to bring in their crazy opinions.

‘Beef isn’t really good for the music business, especially for hip-hop. It brings traction but it doesn’t help the culture. Blaqbonez and Odumodublvck are beefing, they’re both my close colleagues so the room now is a bit tensed.

‘People are hyping their beef not because they love hip-hop but because they love to see artists fight. When last did you see them celebrating hip-hop achievements? They only come around when the culture is heated. This their fight is beyond rap beef.’

Erigga acknowledged that rap battles are part of hip-hop, but thinks the current beef is causing more harm than good.

Former Executive Chairman of Agege Local Government Area of Lagos State, High Chief Ganiyu Kola Egunjobi, in this interview with select journalists, speaks on politics, governance, and other related issues.

About three months ago, you left office as Chairman of Agege Local Government after eight years. What would you say are your achievements?

You just put me on the spot. It’s not in my nature to beat my own drum – I allow my work and performance to speak for themselves. I can’t take all the credit because it was a team effort. However, we did our best and executed several legacy projects.

Among them is the Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre, which the council built and equipped during my tenure. Recently, the government announced plans to phase out pen-and-paper exams for the Senior School Certificate Examinations and NECO by 2026 in favour of computer-based testing. If I’m not mistaken, this shift will eventually apply to all public examinations.

JAMB had long adopted this system, and we established the CBT centre to bring such facilities closer to candidates in our community. Another initiative that fills me with pride is the council’s free shuttle bus service.

We also constructed several roads, purchased ambulances, built and equipped health centres, and empowered many residents through job opportunities and vocational training.

Additionally, we established the Agege Crime Fighters, a security outfit owned by the council to complement state and federal security agencies in tackling crime and insecurity. My firm belief is that local governments in Lagos are having a greater impact than their counterparts in other states.

Can you shed more light on your assertion that Lagos councils are more impactful than those in other states?

The proof of the pudding is in the eating. The scale of projects and programmes carried out by councils in Lagos is often beyond what their counterparts in other states can handle.

During my tenure, we built hospitals. My colleague, Pastor J.S. Babatunde of Orile-Agege LCDA, did the same. Some councils even constructed housing estates, such as the one built by Dele Oshinowo of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA.

In many other states, such projects are handled by state governments because local councils lack the resources. For instance, the level of infrastructure development in Epe, achieved by local councils, cannot be compared with that of neighbouring Ijebu in Ogun State. The same applies to councils in Lagos West compared to local governments in Ota, Ogun State.

What is your assessment of the administration that succeeded yours under the chairmanship of Alhaji Tunde Azeez, especially ahead of the traditional 100-day celebration?

As they say, the morning shows the day. I’m impressed by the performance of the Acting Chairman, Alhaji Ganiyu Vinod Obasa. He has shown strong leadership in the absence of Alhaji Tunde Azeez, who deserves commendation for transferring power to his deputy in line with the constitution while attending to health matters.

Vinod has demonstrated uncommon capacity in a short period, implementing impactful programmes in education, security, and environmental sanitation, among others. He has indeed become the darling of Agege residents, visitors, and business owners.

As an APC chieftain at the grassroots, how do you respond to allegations that the ruling party is stifling opposition?

Those allegations are baseless. It’s well known that the opposition’s problems are self-inflicted. Everyone witnessed how the PDP’s internal divisions during the 2023 general elections contributed to its loss. Today, the party is in disarray, with members defecting en masse to the APC due to President Bola Tinubu’s impressive strides in improving Nigeria’s fortunes.

For example, the student loan scheme has ended the era when students dropped out of school due to financial hardship. Is it the APC’s fault that Peter Obi, the so-called ‘social media president,’ cannot manage the Labour Party, leading to its polarisation between Julius Abure and Nenadi Usman?

The same internal crisis plagues the ADC. Our party remains focused on governance and the reelection of President Tinubu in 2027. We don’t engage in distractions or attempt to create crises in opposition parties.

From eleven governors, the PDP is now down to eight after three joined the APC. Several opposition lawmakers have also defected, giving the APC a two-thirds majority in the Senate – enough to pass major legislation with ease.

Some incidents, such as the attack on the ADC secretariat in Ekiti and the disruption of the party’s meetings in Kaduna and Alimosho by hoodlums, are cited as evidence of APC’s clampdown on opposition. What is your reaction?

We must be cautious about the danger of a single story. The APC is not made up of busybodies; we are focused on governance and moving the country forward.

I’m aware that both the national and state leadership of the APC have disowned those incidents. Who is to say the ADC didn’t orchestrate them to smear the APC in the eyes of the public?

How is life after office, and what is next for you politically?

I’ve returned to my alma mater, Lagos State University, where I completed my first and master’s degrees, to pursue a PhD in Peace and Security Studies. I’m also attending to my business and spending more time with family and friends.

As the Otun of Egbaland – the second-in-command to the Alake of Egbaland – my role requires active involvement in Abeokuta’s traditional affairs, alongside political engagements.

As for my next political move, that decision rests entirely with our leader in Agege, Rt. Hon. Mudasiru Ajayi Obasa.

The NEPAD Business Group Nigeria (NBGN) has announced plans to host a High-Level Business Forum on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event will be held under the theme, ‘Mobilising Africa’s Private Sector for AfCFTA Towards Africa’s Economic Development Amid Global Uncertainty.’

The forum will bring together business leaders, policymakers, development partners, and regional economic stakeholders to explore strategies for strengthening private sector participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and advancing Africa’s economic transformation agenda.

According to the organisers, discussions will centre on deepening intra-African trade, promoting industrial competitiveness, and fostering sustainable economic growth. Key focus areas include policy alignment, trade facilitation, investment promotion, value-chain development, and industrial cooperation across African economies.

The event is expected to attract participants from government ministries and agencies, financial institutions, regional economic communities, chambers of commerce, development organisations, and leading industry players from within and outside Nigeria.

Speaking ahead of the forum, Bashorun J. K. Randle, FCA, Chairman of NEPAD Business Group Nigeria, underscored the crucial role of the private sector in driving Africa’s development under the AfCFTA framework.

‘The private sector remains the engine of Africa’s transformation. Through this forum, we aim to build actionable strategies that will strengthen Africa’s economic resilience, promote cross-border trade, and ensure inclusive prosperity for all,’ Randle stated.

Outcomes from the High-Level Business Forum are expected to inform policy recommendations and strategic frameworks that will enhance regional trade integration and contribute to the realisation of Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.