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The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the Executive Arm of Government to take deliberate and urgent steps to expand computer knowledge among students in public schools across the state.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. W.A. Salami, during plenary.

The motion noted that computer literacy has become a fundamental requirement in modern education, enhancing interactive learning and better academic outcomes.

However, many public school students, especially in underserved areas like Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and parts of Oyo still lack access to digital education, putting them at a disadvantage in computer-based tests (CBT) such as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.

Despite being academically sound, a significant number of students have failed to secure university admission due to poor CBT performance, often caused by unfamiliarity with basic computer operations.

In response, the House urged the government to intensify efforts to improve digital education in public schools, including establishing computer rooms, equipping them with necessary accessories, and integrating computer training from the primary school level.

It also called for collaboration with JAMB to set up CBT centres in all 14 federal constituencies of the state and encouraged partnerships with education-focused philanthropists, NGOs, and foreign donors.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin stressed the urgency of bridging the digital divide, noting that in today’s world, digital literacy is no longer optional.

He emphasized that students must be equipped with the skills required to compete and succeed in a technology-driven society.

The Speaker added that it was inclusive for the State Government to prioritise inclusive computer education as a tool for academic success and long-term development.

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday restated his administration’s focus on supporting Nigerian youths and driving economic reforms as the country marked its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a national broadcast from the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu described young Nigerians as the nation’s ‘greatest assets,’ encouraging them to dream big and pursue opportunities in science, technology, sports, arts, and the creative sector.

He outlined initiatives already in place to back education, entrepreneurship, and youth development.

According to him, the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has so far provided N99.5 billion in student loans and N44.7 billion in upkeep allowances to about 510,000 students in 228 higher institutions.

‘Our administration, through policies and funding, will continue to give you wings to fly sky-high.

‘We created NELFUND to support students with loans for their educational pursuits. Approximately 510,000 students across 36 states and the FCT have benefited from this initiative, covering 228 higher institutions,’ he said.

Tinubu also noted that the Credicorp scheme had disbursed N30 billion in loans to 153,000 Nigerians for vehicles, solar power, home improvements, and digital devices. Additionally, the YouthCred programme, launched in June, has begun providing credit to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to assist with their resettlement.

He said the Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) programme, developed with the Bank of Industry, African Development Bank, French Development Agency, and Islamic Development Bank, was close to full rollout to boost the technology and creative industries further.

Speaking on the economy, the President acknowledged that current reforms had created difficulties, with inflation and high living costs affecting many citizens.

‘The alternative of allowing our country to descend into economic chaos or bankruptcy was not an option. Sacrifices made were laying a new foundation cast in concrete, not on quicksand,’ he said.

He stressed that progress should be measured not just by figures but also by improvements in food security, education, electricity, and safer communities.

Tinubu called on state and local governments to support federal efforts by driving productivity and innovation.

‘Let us be a nation of producers, not just consumers. Let us farm our land and build factories to process our produce. Let us patronise ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ goods. I say Nigeria first,’ he declared.

The President assured Nigerians that a more prosperous and self-reliant country was achievable and urged citizens to work together in the nation-building process.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recorded a remarkable milestone in institutional transparency, ranking 3rd out of over 500 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) assessed in the 2025 Transparency and Integrity Index released by the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI).

According to the report released on Tuesday, ICPC achieved an impressive 78.13% score, placing it among the top three most transparent and accountable government institutions in Nigeria.

This performance represents a historic leap for ICPC, which ranked 19th in the 2024 Index with a score of just 24%.

The dramatic rise of over 50 percentage points highlights the Commission’s strengthened internal systems, proactive information disclosure, and commitment to openness in line with global standards of accountability.

The Transparency and Integrity Index measures institutional compliance across five key variables: Fiscal Transparency, Open Procurement, Human Resource and Inclusion, Control of Corruption, and Citizens’ Engagement.

ICPC’s strong showing across these areas demonstrates the Commission’s resolve to lead by example in Nigeria’s anti-corruption drive.

Observers note that this leap sends a powerful message about institutional reforms, accountability, and the Commission’s renewed commitment to building public trust.

With this development, ICPC has set a new benchmark for transparency among Nigeria’s public institutions, further cementing its role as the nation’s foremost anti-corruption agency.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, described the Transparency and Integrity Index (TII) as a vital instrument for entrenching accountability and good governance in Nigeria’s public institutions.

He noted that the assessment has, over the years, provided a benchmark for reforms that strengthen governance and improve service delivery.

According to him, the 2025 edition of the Index, jointly conducted with the Centre for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity (CeFTPI), is aligned with the National Strategy for Public Service Reforms (NSPSR 2021-2025), the Freedom of Information Act, and Nigeria’s commitments under the Open Government Partnership.

Dr. Arabi emphasized that the Index is more than numbers or rankings, but about building a culture of openness and responsibility that fosters public trust, as contained in a statement signed by Demola Bakare, Director, Public Enlightenment and Education/Spokesperson for the Commission.

ýTHE political sagacity and ideology of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State is coming under a new kind of scrutiny with the public presentation of the book ‘Omituntun Political Ideology of Governor Seyi Makinde: A Principle and Practice for Good Governance and Socio-Economic Development’ taking place soon, in Ibadan.

ýýThe book, written by a scholar and public servant, Babatunde Osumah, is an independent assessment of the new political culture brought with the Omituntun political philosophy of Governor Makinde. It is also a manual on how the younger generation of Nigerian politicians can learn from and be prepared for the vagaries of political high office from the Omitutun Philosophy, which is anchored on moral and delivery-driven politics.

ýýSnippets show that the book is for education and for the sustenance of the highly impactful Omituntun Philosophy. In showing how, snippets from it say the book ‘shows how new orientation can be rendered from the attitude of Governor SeyiMakinde to the upcoming young politicians so that they will be well-prepared before occupying political offices.’

ýýSpeaking on why the project was undertaken, Osumah said: ‘The purpose of the book launch is to honour and celebrate the excellent performance and quintessential leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde in this 21st century political dispensation in Nigeria.

ýý’Dignitaries invited for the book launch are members of Oyo State Executive Council, Oyo State House of Assembly members; Oyo State Chief judge, Oyo State Local Government Chairmen, veteran media personalities, political pundits in Nigeria, distinguished personalities in their chosen careers and representative of the Nigeria Youth.’

ýýThe Special Guest of Honour for the occasion billed for Thursday October 23, 2025 is Governor Makinde himself.

The Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, Most Reverend Dr Henry Ndukuba, has called for a renewed spirit of patriotism, volunteerism, and sacrifice among Nigeria’s leaders and citizens, stressing that the nation’s progress depends on values-driven leadership and strong institutions.

Speaking at the sidelines of the World Mission Congress held at St. Matthias House, Gudu, Abuja, Archbishop Ndukuba reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence, noting that while the country has remained resilient through numerous challenges, there is a need for a paradigm shift in governance and national orientation.

‘At 65, I think that as we look back at what we have passed through as a nation, we have every reason to give thanks to God. But compared with other developing nations like Brazil and India, Nigeria must strive harder to measure up. We have all it takes, the scientists, the engineers, the resources, but corruption and nepotism continue to hold us back,’ he said.

The Anglican Primate observed that the unity and selflessness displayed by Nigeria’s founding fathers at independence have been replaced over the years by what he described as a sense of entitlement among some in leadership. He urged political leaders to put service above personal gain and work toward building a just and prosperous society.

On security, Archbishop Ndukuba commended the present administration for showing the political will to confront banditry and insurgency, while acknowledging the efforts of the military and other security agencies.

He, however, called for more support and resources for security personnel, stressing the need to identify and hold accountable those who finance and sponsor violence.

‘Without security, there will be no development, whether economic or social. We must also strengthen our judiciary and other institutions to deliver on their mandate,’ the Anglican Primate added.

Addressing Nigeria’s diversity, he noted that with over 250 ethnic groups, the country requires strong unifying forces. He cautioned against the misuse of religion and ethnicity for political advantage, warning that such practices fuel division and instability.

‘The ordinary Nigerians are not the problem. The real challenge lies with the elites who must rise above divisive politics and unite to build the nation,’ he said.

The Archbishop urged both leaders and citizens to embrace righteousness and service to humanity, reminding them that a nation can only prosper when its values are rooted in justice, sacrifice, and the common good.

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has expressed dissatisfaction with the state of Nigeria’s independence, describing it as another means of bondage.

In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele stated that the country has not become better and that people who fought for the nation’s independence have not been fully appreciated.

He stated that there are several differences in the country on different grounds, most especially politically, which have not allowed Nigeria to experience what it means to be independent.

‘At 65, we are still not better; those who fought recklessly for our independence have not been fully appreciated. They need to be appreciated by Nigeria getting united, but as it stands, we are not yet fully independent because of our several differences as a nation, especially politically.’

‘Our independence is bondage for us; we are in a serious situation where there is no rest of mind and peace, for how long do we continue to pass through all of these?’

He frowned at people ruling the country the way they want it, which includes not appreciating those who worked tirelessly for where the country is at the moment.

‘It’s unfortunate that the country is being run just the way people want; leaders are not appreciated, and people who have worked tirelessly have not been allowed to gain ground.’

Furthermore, the cleric advised Nigerian leaders to work on five major things for the nation to experience what it means to be independent.

He noted that the nation is sitting on a time bomb due to the issues in the country involving citizens.

‘These are the five things we need to work on as we clock 65: insecurity, increase in production, utilisation of our mineral resources, agriculture, and true federalism. It would be a fantastic independence.

‘A lot of people are praying for separation; they have seen the government as without direction, there is tribal war, and I doubt if we are improving because we are not committed. Nigeria is in a very difficult independence moment, and we are sitting on a time bomb,’ he added.

As part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary, the Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched the free distribution of Mother-Baby Kits and the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project.

During the official launch at the Asokoro District Hospital in Abuja, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, noted that the two health flagship programmes represent a holistic vision of health: protecting mothers and newborns during childbirth while safeguarding families from the dangers of household air pollution.

Mahmoud also noted that the initiatives symbolise the administration’s resolve to invest in both immediate healthcare needs and long-term environmental sustainability.

The Minister further explained that the Mother-Baby Kits contained essential medical items and consumables that would support safe labour, delivery and neonatal care for women and babies across the FCT.

According to her, ‘No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care.

‘These kits reflect our deep commitment to maternal and child health and to ensuring that every mother and baby is given the best start possible.’

She, however, described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.

Mahmoud emphasised that by replacing polluting fuels such as firewood, charcoal and kerosene with smart, efficient Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cookers, the administration is addressing one of the silent but deadly health risks in homes: respiratory disease caused by smoke inhalation.

The Minister affirmed that these two transformative programmes are part of a broader transformation under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Speaking further, Mahmoud said the administration has strengthened its workforce through improved conditions and training investments, while infrastructure upgrades-from hospital renovations including call rooms to the establishment of a Public Health Emergency Operations Centre-have boosted efficiency and resilience.

She therefore used the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary to call on Nigerians to recommit themselves to building an FCT where every home is healthier, every birth is safer, and every breath is cleaner.

Earlier in her welcome remarks, the Mandate Secretary, FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, revealed that every year, Nigeria continues to face unacceptably high rates of maternal and infant mortality.

She lamented that despite progress made, too many women still lose their lives during childbirth, and too many newborns do not live to see their first birthday.

‘One major reason for these preventable deaths is the lack of access to clean, safe and essential supplies during delivery.

‘The Renewed Hope Mother-Baby Kit initiative is designed to bridge that gap. Each kit contains basic but critical items needed to ensure a hygienic and safe delivery both for the mother and the child,’ she noted.

She reiterated the FCT Administration’s commitment, under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, to invest in strategic health interventions that have a direct impact on the lives of rural people.

As Nigeria commemorates 65 years of independence, Keem Abdul’s Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015-2023) offers a timely reflection on the life and presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, the former Head of State and President who left an enduring mark on the nation’s political history. The book examines Buhari’s journey from military ruler to elected leader, and the challenges he faced in office. It traces how his reputation for integrity shaped his political rise, and how his presidency navigated issues of governance, security, the economy, and national unity.

Abdul writes: ‘The story of Buhari is the story of a man who became the symbol of integrity in Nigeria, but whose government eventually became a byword for competence tested by enormous national challenges.’ (p. 9)

He later adds: ‘The Buhari years will be remembered not only for the change they promised, but for the lessons they leave behind for a country still seeking its democratic balance.’ (p. 313)

Through chapters such as ‘Baba Go-Slow,’ ‘A Giant with Feet of Clay,’ and ‘The Winter of Our Discontent,’ Abdul offers a thoughtful account of Buhari’s leadership. The book reflects on both his enduring reputation for honesty and the difficulties of governing a complex nation, presenting his presidency as part of the larger story of Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Keem Abdul, the author, is a Nigerian writer who focuses on politics, governance, and society. His work aims to encourage readers to reflect, not only on leaders themselves, but on the institutions and citizens that shape Nigeria’s path.

Scorched Earth is available on Mainstack and Selar.

He attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958-1963) and Olivet Baptist High School (1964-1965). He studied at the University of Liège, Belgium (1966-1972) where he earned a degree in chemical engineering.

He is a Nigerian monarch. He is the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan. Before ascending the throne, Ladoja was a chief and politician who served as the governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006 on the PDP platform; and from 2006 to 2007.

He was elected to the Senate of Nigeria in 1993 during the short-lived Nigerian Third Republic, he was a member of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) during the Abacha Political Transition. By 2000, Ladoja had become a director of Standard Trust Bank Limited.

He attended Ibadan Boys High School (1958-1963) and Olivet Baptist High School (1964-1965). He studied at the University of Liège, Belgium (1966-1972) where he earned a degree in chemical engineering.

He is a Nigerian monarch. He is the 44th Olubadan of Ibadan. Before ascending the throne, Ladoja was a chief and politician who served as the governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006 on the PDP platform; and from 2006 to 2007.

He was elected to the Senate of Nigeria in 1993 during the short-lived Nigerian Third Republic, he was a member of the United Nigeria Congress Party (UNCP) during the Abacha Political Transition. By 2000, Ladoja had become a director of Standard Trust Bank Limited.

As Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, state governors across the federation called for national renewal anchored on unity, patriotism, and respect for democratic values.

In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need for synergy between government and citizens, saying both must support each other wholeheartedly to achieve collective progress.

Speaking after inspecting a ceremonial parade at Lagos House, Marina, the governor charged Nigerians to hold fast to the ideals of resilience and patriotism, while reeling out achievements under his THEMES+ Agenda, which prioritises social inclusion, gender equality, youth empowerment, healthcare, and education.

‘The government and people must have faith in each other so that the effort of one is supported wholeheartedly by the other.

‘As a state, we are deliberate about protecting the weak and uplifting the vulnerable. No citizen should be left behind on the path to progress,’ Sanwo-Olu said.

In Osun, Governor Ademola Adeleke stressed the need to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic foundation through full compliance with the constitution and the rule of law.

In his Independence Day statement, Adeleke urged the political class to embrace true federalism, strengthen federating units, and respect judicial processes.

‘We must in totality ensure compliance with the rule of law, not rule of the thumb. Nigeria must run truly as a federation where tiers of government operate with clear regulations as provided by the constitution,’ he said.

He congratulated President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians at large, pledging Osun’s ‘unalloyed submission to the constitution and the rule of law’ while urging citizens to remain law-abiding.

In Gombe, which also marked its 29th anniversary as a state, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya reflected on the state’s journey since creation in 1996, attributing its transformation to the 10-Year Development Plan (DEVAGOM).

He highlighted achievements in education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, industrialisation, and social welfare, noting that his administration has constructed over 900 kilometers of roads, expanded healthcare access, and disbursed over ?25 billion in gratuities to retirees.

‘In less than three decades of existence, Gombe has ushered in a new dawn defined by vision, discipline, and results,’ Yahaya said.

He urged citizens to remain patient amid economic reforms, assuring that these measures would build a stronger and more prosperous future.

The Gombe governor, who also chairs the Northern States Governors’ Forum, prayed for peace, stability, and continued growth in Nigeria, calling on citizens to celebrate with gratitude while recommitting themselves to unity and national progress.