Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The former southeast spokesman to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Denge. Josef Onoh, has exonerated the Department for State Services (DSS) of any blame on the screening of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

Onoh, while addressing newsmen in Abuja, said that the act of consistently asking nominees for public office to go for DSS screening is wrong and total abuse of the functions of the organization which he said should be stopped immediately.

He advocated that Nigeria should step up to a globally accepted practice and grow beyond the third world country practices.

‘ Involving the DSS was a practice by the military junta because the Constitution was suspended. Hence, the unconstitutional act became normalised and continued by the democratic government.

‘It is not the constitutional duty of the Nigerian Department of State Services (DSS) to screen the educational qualifications of a president’s nominee for public office,’ Onoh maintained.

He stressed that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) does not assign such responsibility to the DSS but outlines distinct roles such that the President nominates individuals for offices like ministers (under Sections 147 and 154), and the Senate conducts the formal screening and confirmation process to assess suitability, including qualifications.

‘Educational credentials for such nominees are typically verified by the issuing institutions (e.g universities) or through Senate inquiries during hearings, not by the DSS.’

Referring to the Constitutional Framework, said that the DSS’s Mandate is established under the National Security Agencies Act (Cap N74 LFN 2004).

‘The DSS’s core functions focus on internal security, counterintelligence, and protecting senior officials such as preventing crimes threatening national security. The Nigerian Constitution does not explicitly detail DSS duties but embeds them within broader executive powers (Section 5). It does not include vetting educational qualifications as a statutory obligation.’

Onoh said that the Nominee Screening Process under Section 147(2) requires Senate confirmation for ministerial nominees within 21 days, emphasizing the legislature’s role in evaluating fitness.

‘The Senate Rules (Order 44) guide this, often involving CV reviews, asset declarations (per Section 149), and public hearings where qualifications like degrees or NYSC certificates are probed. Past controversies (e.g., allegations against nominees like Kemi Adeosun or Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo) were handled via Senate scrutiny and institutional verifications, not DSS-led probes.’

He maintained that the role of the DSS in educational screening of public office nominees is an act that’s Practice vs. the Constitution because in practice, the executive (via the President’s office) often requests informal security clearances from the DSS for nominees, which may incidentally touch on credentials if they raise security red flags such as forgery linked to fraud.

‘Examples include the DSS clearances for 2024 ministerial nominees like Bianca Ojukwu, signaling no security objections before Senate screening. Historical cases, such as the 2015 Buhari administration, sending lists to DSS for preliminary checks. However, these are administrative conveniences, not constitutional imperatives.’

Onoh gave instances on DSS involvement in non-security screenings like Senior Advocate of Nigeria elevations. He said that such expansions exceed the DSS’s statutory scope under the NSA Act, potentially violating ultra vires principles. The Constitution prioritizes Senate oversight to prevent executive overreach.

‘If a nominee’s educational qualifications are in doubt, the Senate can demand direct evidence from bodies like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) or universities, as seen in the 2023 Tinubu cabinet screenings where three nominees faced delays over certificate verifications.

‘Even the US Secret Service does not screen educational qualifications of a President’s nominees for public office. Its primary role is protective and investigative, focusing on the safety of the president, vice president, candidates, and other designated individuals under 18 U.S.C. § 3056, as well as financial crimes like counterfeiting.

‘Background checks for nominees are handled by other agencies, such as the FBI, and educational verification is typically done by the nominating president’s White House staff, the Office of Presidential Personnel, or Senate confirmation committees.

For instance, the Secret Service’s background investigations apply to its own applicants (e.g., for special agent roles, which include education reviews for hiring qualifications), but not to public office nominees. Nominees undergo separate vetting through the Senate’s confirmation process, where educational credentials are examined as part of ethics and qualification reviews, but this is unrelated to the Secret Service.

‘Nigeria can never progress as a country if all organs of government continue to place wrong procedural acts that undermine the constitution,’ Onoh concluded.

The Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Yusuf Atah, has said there is no vacancy in the home of the President, Aso Rock Villa in Abuja, until 2031.

Atah said the Presidential Villa will still be occupied in 2027 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The minister was reacting to what he called a pernicious campaign of outright distortion, falsehood and malice, sponsored by those who lost out in the political machinations surrounding the last general election.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his media aide, Seyi Olorunsola, the minister refuted the narrative by ‘some elements, particularly from the APC, PDP, and Labour Party (LP),’ that the North’s population opposed President Tinubu’s administration and would, therefore, not support his re-election bid in 2027.

Attah said: ‘This claim is not only baseless; it is disrespectful to the genuine sentiments and aspirations of millions of northerners who have benefited from the Renewed Hope Agenda.

‘As the Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, I wish to set the record straight: there is no vacancy in Aso Rock Villa in 2027.

‘The insinuation that northerners have ‘closed ranks’ against President Tinubu is a deliberate misrepresentation designed to foment discord, stir regional prejudice, and undermine national cohesion.

‘It is instructive to recall that since May 2023, President Tinubu has pursued an agenda that is demonstrably inclusive, strategic, and geared toward regional balance.’

The minister, who hails from Kano State, noted that, despite inheriting severe security deficits, President Tinubu has engaged vigorously with the hydra-headed challenges of insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence, deploying new strategies, reinforcing security frameworks, and working hard to restore confidence.

‘Indeed, northern stakeholders themselves have publicly acknowledged improvements in security and infrastructure under his watch.

‘On the economic front, the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of exchange rates (among other reforms) have unlocked critical fiscal space for state governments and local governments.

‘More resources are now available for development at the grassroots, while autonomy for local government areas ensures that local priorities are addressed promptly.

‘President Tinubu’s tenure has also seen a steady acceleration of infrastructure projects across the North,’ Atah said.

He confirmed that Islamic clerics, religious leaders, traditional rulers, cultural stakeholders, and influential civil society personalities have lent their moral authority and backing to President Tinubu’s candidacy for 2027.

Attah said: ‘To the northern people, I say: do not be swayed by the false rhetoric of failed and retired politicians whose only agenda is to reclaim access to the public purse.

‘Their smear campaign is a smoke screen for their irrelevance and opportunism. Instead, weigh the record: the inclusion you see, the projects you see, and the benefit you feel.’

Africa’s best players in the past two years, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman will lead Nigeria’s charge for crucial three points when the Super Eagles go up against the Crocodiles of Lesotho in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in the South African city of Polokwane on Friday evening.

The clash is the penultimate matchday of the series, with Nigeria needing all three points and favour from elsewhere to stand in good stead heading into the final matchday, when they host present group leaders Benin Republic at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

With three points off first-placed Benin Republic and second-placed South Africa, Nigeria must go guns-blazing for their remaining two games, starting with the encounter with the Crocodiles on neutral ground on Friday.

Coach Eric Chelle has been unable to call on wing-back Olaoluwa Aina, injured on an atrocious Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein pitch in the clash with South Africa’s Bafana Bafana last month, and defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, midfielder Raphael Onyedika and forward Cyriel Dessers are also out injured.

However, Chelle welcomes back Osimhen (who missed the clash with the Bafana after sustaining an injury against Rwanda in Uyo days earlier), and the triumvirate that shone brightly at last year’s Africa Cup of Nations (the others being Ademola Lookman and Simon Moses) is intact for this big challenge.

Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali is most likely to retain his place in goal, with Captain William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, Semi Ajayi, Zaidu Sanusi and Benjamin Frederick all in line for shirts in the defence line, and Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi and Christantus Uche available for selection in midfield.

Osimhen, Lookman and Moses are top for the fore, but Chelle also has Samuel Chukwueze, Tolu Arokodare, Terem Moffi and Jerome Akor Adams all in good form.

21 Super Eagles to battle Lesotho in Polokwane:

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)

Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City, England); Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium)

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey); Christantus Uche (Crystal Palace, England)

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham FC, England); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Tolu Arokodare (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England); Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France); Jerome Akor Adams (Sevilla FC, Spain).

As the world marks World Mental Health Day on October 10, the Changed Foundation seeks urgent attention to the plight of millions of Nigerians suffering in silence due to stigma, poor funding, and a lack of professional care.

The UK-based non-profit enjoined the federal, state and local governments, civil society, communities, and other stakeholders to treat mental wellness and physical health the same way.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 40 million Nigerians-a staggering 20% of the population-live with a mental health disorder.

However, nearly 80% of those cannot access proper care, a crisis worsened by the fact that Nigeria has one of the world’s lowest ratios of mental health professionals. Only about 350 psychiatrists serve over 200 million people.

Changed Foundation founder, Scholastica Onumonu, said: ‘Mental health is treatable and nothing to be ashamed of. Unfortunately, cultural misconceptions and stigma often compel sufferers to seek traditional or spiritual healing instead of medical care.’

To mark the 2025 Mental Health Day, the NGO launched ‘Mind Matters Nigeria,’ a campaign to raise awareness, promote early help-seeking, and enhance community efforts through policy roundtables, personal storytelling, and educational materials.

‘Mental health doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone,’ Onumonu noted. ‘But help is available, recovery is possible, and no one needs to suffer in silence. Every Nigerian deserves the right to be heard, treated, and supported.’

‘Seeking help early saves lives, reduces suffering, and strengthens communities. Together, we can end stigma, assist one another, and build healthier, more resilient societies,’ the humanitarian added.

Onumonu urged the government to implement the National Mental Health Act (2021/2023), expand mental health services to primary health centres, encourage professionals with incentives, conduct awareness campaigns, as well as workplace and school programs.

On the humanitarian situation in Plateau State, she described the cycle of violence as ‘one of Nigeria’s most enduring ethno-religious and communal crises. Any genuine attempt at reconciliation must be anchored on fairness and truth.’

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As the world marks World Mental Health Day on October 10, the Changed Foundation seeks urgent attention to the plight of millions of Nigerians suffering in silence due to stigma, poor funding, and a lack of professional care.

The UK-based non-profit enjoined the federal, state and local governments, civil society, communities, and other stakeholders to treat mental wellness and physical health the same way.

According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 40 million Nigerians-a staggering 20% of the population-live with a mental health disorder.

However, nearly 80% of those cannot access proper care, a crisis worsened by the fact that Nigeria has one of the world’s lowest ratios of mental health professionals. Only about 350 psychiatrists serve over 200 million people.

Changed Foundation founder, Scholastica Onumonu, said: ‘Mental health is treatable and nothing to be ashamed of. Unfortunately, cultural misconceptions and stigma often compel sufferers to seek traditional or spiritual healing instead of medical care.’

To mark the 2025 Mental Health Day, the NGO launched ‘Mind Matters Nigeria,’ a campaign to raise awareness, promote early help-seeking, and enhance community efforts through policy roundtables, personal storytelling, and educational materials.

‘Mental health doesn’t discriminate; it can affect anyone,’ Onumonu noted. ‘But help is available, recovery is possible, and no one needs to suffer in silence. Every Nigerian deserves the right to be heard, treated, and supported.’

‘Seeking help early saves lives, reduces suffering, and strengthens communities. Together, we can end stigma, assist one another, and build healthier, more resilient societies,’ the humanitarian added.

Onumonu urged the government to implement the National Mental Health Act (2021/2023), expand mental health services to primary health centres, encourage professionals with incentives, conduct awareness campaigns, as well as workplace and school programs.

On the humanitarian situation in Plateau State, she described the cycle of violence as ‘one of Nigeria’s most enduring ethno-religious and communal crises. Any genuine attempt at reconciliation must be anchored on fairness and truth.’

The E1 Lagos Grand Prix has come and gone but the memories the sporting tournament left will forever linger on in the memories of attendees and special guests.

The three day event, which was held in the heart of Victoria Island, Ikoyi and Lekki, was spiced up by special performances led by Adekunle Gold, Fireboy DML, Shoday, Lojay, and Tiwa Savage.

The tone of the tournament was set by Adekunle Gold, who recently released his third album, Fuji, on Friday, October 3, 2025 with his performance at the LASWA Boat Jetty – Five Cowries Terminal.

Attendees of the event at other watching venues couldn’t get enough of the 38-year-old singer, who dished out tunes upon tunes to their delight.

After Adekunle Gold belled the cat for performances at the tournament, other music acts like YBNL signee, Fireboy DML, fast rising singer, Shoday and Lojay took turns in adding spice to the fun filled event.

The performances didn’t come as a surprise to many, who have attended the FirstBank inspired annual initiative, DecemberIssaVybe. Many of the attendees, who were mostly the younger generation, commended the Lagos State Government as well as major sponsors led by FirstBank of Nigeria.

Taiwo Elegbede, a 23-year-old student living in Lagos said the experience has set the tone for what December in Lagos will be like.

In her words, ‘When I heard about the E1 event, the first thing I did was to google about it and I saw that it was a sporting event. I am not really into sport but I was urged by my friends to attend and I don’t regret attending. The performances in the last three days have been awesome and now I have an idea how Christmas in Lagos will be.’

At the sporting tournament, nine teams including Aoki Racing Team, Team Alula, championed by LeBron James, Team Blue Rising, Team Brady, owned by Tom Brady, Team Brazil by Claure Group, Team Drogba, owned by football legend Didier Drogba, Team Miami powered by Magnus, and Team Rafa, owned by Tennis star, Rafael Nadal, participated at the tournament.

However, Team Brazil by Claure Group lifted the highly coveted trophy in a keenly competed race.

On why FirstBank decided to throw its heavy financial weight behind the tournament, the Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Yinka Ijabiyi, who spoke during the E1 Lagos GP, said FirstBank would continue to be involved in driving initiatives that enhance creative culture across the country.

He also expressed that the vision of Firstbank as sponsors of the E1 Lagos GP was to champion a movement that would continue to celebrate global ideas and innovations that are not only sustainable but that could also push the boundaries of sustainability, and unleash the ‘unstoppable Vybes of Lagos’ onto the global stage.

With the success recorded with the first-ever all-electric powerboat racing competition in Africa, Ijabiyi noted that it was a good testimony that the brand was not only determined to drive every initiative that prosper Lagos State, but was ready to transform the Lagos coastline into global reckoning.

The E1 Lagos Grand Prix was rounded off with a scintillating performance by the self acclaimed Number one African bad gyal, Tiwa Savage, on Sunday, October 5, 2025. Tiwa left the audience asking for more as she sang her soul to the delight of guests, dignitaries and other attendees at the event.

These performances were part of a broader effort to celebrate Lagos culture and the innovation of the E1 series electric powerboat race.

Coach Eric Sekou Chelle, and team captain William Troost-Ekong have both emphasized focus, discipline and intensity as Nigeria face-off today with Lesotho in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture in Polokwane, South Africa .

Speaking at the pre-match press conference yesterday, Chelle underlined the importance of approaching the encounter with total concentration, noting that unpredictable factors could shape the outcome of the game.

‘Things can happen during the game because of the weather, referees, injuries and so on. So we need to stay focused about what we want from this game,’ Chelle stated. ‘We must strive to get the three points and then think about the next game. Lesotho is a good team with a good coach. We must start the game very well and play it with high intensity and aggressiveness.’

Nigeria, who are looking to reignite their qualification hopes after a slow start to the campaign, face a confident Lesotho side that has proven difficult to beat at home. The Crocodiles held the Super Eagles to a 1-1 draw in Uyo earlier in the series and have shown steady improvement under their current manager.

Captain Troost-Ekong echoed his coach’s sentiments, stressing the team’s determination to approach the match with the same commitment and tactical discipline that earned them a strong display against South Africa in their last outing.

‘We are approaching the game the same way we did against South Africa. It is important for us to play to win and secure the three points,’ the former PAOK Salonika defender said. ‘We have to show Lesotho some respect knowing that they have done well in the group. They even picked a point against us.

‘It is going to be an important game for both teams. We are just focused on our preparations now and looking forward to the game tomorrow (today).’

With the stakes high and only a few matches left in the qualifying series, Nigeria know that nothing short of victory will suffice if they are to keep their World Cup dreams alive.

The Super Eagles are expected to field a strong lineup when they take on Lesotho today at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, with fans hoping for a convincing performance to restore confidence in the team’s qualification campaign.

Prominent individuals and stakeholders from across 22 local government areas of Oyo State, under the aegis of G22 Renewed, have condemned what they described as the political dominance of Ibadan in occupying the governorship seat to the detriment of other regions.

The group, which called for a rotational governorship arrangement, comprises representatives from four of the five political zones in the state – including the ten LGAs in Oke-Ogun, five in Ogbomoso, four in Oyo, and three in Ibarapa.

They lamented that despite Ibadan being only one of the five zones, it has produced governors for a cumulative period of 26 years.

Speaking at a press conference held at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, the group said the event was organized to draw public attention to what they termed an ‘intolerable imbalance and insensitivity’ in the state’s political structure.

Addressing the gathering on behalf of the group, Chief Ademola Ayoade stated that G22 Renewed is made up of respected and responsible individuals who have consistently championed the unity and progress of Oyo State.

He added that for peace to reign, governance in the state must be guided by the principles of fairness, equity, and justice.

He said, ‘The purpose of this Press conference is to draw attention of the general public to the historic and intolerable imbalance and insensitivity being perpetrated in Oyo State as far as the office of Governor of Oyo State is concerned.

‘Going by the Federal Character Principle as enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Conatituion (as amended), Oyo state is divided into five administrative zones viz: Ibadan (11 LGAs), Oke-Ogun (10LGAs), Ogbomoso (5 LGAs), Oyo (4 LGAs) and Ibarapa (3LGAs).

‘Historically, we like to invite attention to the hegemonic trend of governance of Oyo State since the advent of civil/democratic rule using 1979 as starting point:

‘Dr Victor Olunloyo (3 months/Ibadan), Chief Kolapo Ishola (1year 11month/Ibadan), Alhaji Lamidi Adeshina (4years/Ibadan), Senator Rashidi Ladoja (4years/Ibadan), Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala (4years/Ogbomoso), Senator Abiola Ajimobi (8years/Ibadan) and Seyi Makinde (8yrs/Ibadan).

‘As could be seen, the governrishp of Oyo State has been dominated by Ibadan Zone to the exclusion of the remaining four zones. Ibadan Zone, apart from being the state capital with 11 LGAs is just one-third of the entire state in voting strength.

‘Excpet for accidental emergence of Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala between May 2007 – May 2011, none of the remaining four zones comprising 22 LGAs has ever produced a governor in the state. The cumulative period of Ibadan dominance of the governorship of Oyo State is about 26years whereas it is one of the remaining zones (Ogbomoso) that ruled for only four years.’

He said further, ‘We also wish to forward attention to the pattern of governorship candidates and elections in other Southwest states contrary to the winner takes all situation in Oyo State, no particular Zone has been dominating the political landscape of their respective states.

‘For instance, since the creation of Ondo, Osun and Ekiti states, apart from rotating the governorship slot, no indigenes of the state capitals of Alure, Osogbo and Ado- Ekiti has been elected as governor of these three states. The citizens of the state capitals have always ensured that the governor comes from outside the state capital.

‘It is also pertinent to state that even at the federal level, if the North had weaponised its famed voting population, no Southerner would have emerged as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is where the seeming uncompromising posture of Ibadan co-patriots becomes an issue. All told, the voting pattern in Oyo State has consistently shown that only 30percent of the voting population in Ibadan are Ibadan indigenes. The implication of this is that the remaining 70 percent belong to the other zones of the state as well as non-indigenes of Oyo State.

‘In the light of the foregoing, we on behalf of the 22 local governments outside Ibadan in the state are, by this Press conference making a clarion call on all stakeholders to effect the following changes in the political landscape of our dear state:

‘That our Ibadan co-compatriots should, in the interest of justice, peaceful co-existence, equity and fairness allow the 22 LGAs to nominate candidates for the governorship position in Oyo State for the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

‘That all political parties in the state should support this peaceful and legitimate demand of the remaining four zones in the state by ensuring that their respective parties nominate governorship candidates from any of the 22 LGAs for the 2017 general elections.

‘I’m thanking all and sundry for giving thoughts to this our humble consideration, we are confident yahy as true Democrats and dogged fighters for justice, equity and fairness, tou will join hands with us in our collective quests for changing the narratives in the political landscape of Oyo State.’

First Bank of Nigeria yesterday launched a state-of-the-art Digital Xperience Centre at Bayero University Kano (BUK), offering 24/7 automated banking services.

The centre provides services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, and payment transactions through advanced ATMs without human assistance.

The bank’s Group Head of Branch Operations and Services, Mrs. Abimbola Kunle Ajayi, said the centre showcases the bank’s digital transformation and makes banking more convenient for customers.

The centre, the second in Northern Nigeria, offers a platform for customers to independently perform transactions in a friendly environment.

Mrs. Ajayi said the centre’s efficiency was demonstrated during the commissioning when the Deputy Vice-Chancellor successfully carried out a transfer and the Students’ Union President created an ATM card.

The Managing Director/CEO of First Bank Group, Olusegun Alebiosu, has described the bank’s new digital centre as a strategic step towards creating a ‘digital-first’ experience for customers.

Alebiosu said the centre would revolutionize banking, expand access to financial services, and provide seamless, secure, and round-the-clock access to financial services.

He emphasized that the bank’s transformation agenda is anchored on leveraging technology to simplify transactions and enhance accessibility, noting that the future of banking is digital.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Haruna Musa, represented by Prof. Amina Mustapha, thanked FirstBank for the initiative and urged the university community to utilize and take care of the facility.

Bank customers who spoke after performing transactions expressed satisfaction with the centre’s efficiency.

Dauda Yusuf welcomed the digital centre, saying it would solve the problem of having to travel to town for banking transactions.

The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to rally behind the nation’s girls, empowering them to achieve their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.

In a message marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated globally on October 11, Mrs. Tinubu called for collective action to uplift girls and remove the barriers that hinder their progress.

‘Let us come together to support our girls to reach their maximum potential,’ she said, emphasizing that inclusive opportunities for girls were essential for national growth and sustainable development.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, ‘The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,’ the First Lady said the day serves as a reminder of the daily struggles faced by many girls across Nigeria and the world.

She acknowledged the courage of those who, despite daunting challenges, continue to pursue education, fetch water for their families, and endure displacement with dignity and hope.

‘To every brave girl, striving to reach the classroom, walking miles for water, or carrying the quiet strength of displacement, you are seen, you are heard, and valued. Your courage lights the way to a brighter future,’ Mrs. Tinubu stated.

She reaffirmed her commitment to championing initiatives that protect and empower girls, noting that every investment in their education, health, and safety translates into stronger families and a better society.

‘Today, on International Day of the Girl Child, let us remember the daily struggle of our girls,’ she said, calling on communities, families, and institutions to create safe spaces for girls to dream, learn, and lead.

Ogun Governor Dapo Abiodun, has celebrated Matilukuro Olanrewaju, a dedicated educator from Muslim High School, Ago Iwoye, who emerged the overall best teacher in the Senior Secondary Category during the 2025 Presidential Teacher and School Excellent Award

The prestigious recognition was announced during the World Teachers’ Day Celebration at the June 12 Cultural Center, Abeokuta, where the Governor, represented by Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, applauded the exceptional contributions of teachers across the state toward shaping the future of young learners.

Oyedele-Salako commended Matilukuro for his unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching methods, and positive impact on students’ learning outcomes.

She emphasised that the State Government remains dedicated to promoting and rewarding excellence among educators as part of its vision to elevate the standard of education in Ogun State.

The event was attended by top government officials, education stakeholders, and representatives from various schools.

The atmosphere was filled with excitement and pride as colleagues, students, and well-wishers celebrated Matilukuro’s remarkable achievement.

The recognition of Matilukuro Olanrewaju as the 2025 Ogun State Overall Best Teacher (Senior Secondary Category) stands as a testament to his passion, professionalism and enduring dedication to the teaching profession – a true reflection of the excellence Ogun State is known for.