Year: 2026

  • RENEWED HOPE IN ACTION: REPETE HAILS TINUBU’S REFORM AGENDA, DECLARES READINESS TO ADVANCE PRESIDENTIAL VISION

    RENEWED HOPE IN ACTION: REPETE HAILS TINUBU’S REFORM AGENDA, DECLARES READINESS TO ADVANCE PRESIDENTIAL VISION

    In a defining moment for progressive politics in Oyo State, Hopeful Ibadan North Federal Constituency Aspirant, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete), has passionately commended the transformative leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing his administration as “a bold era of courageous reforms, institutional strengthening, and people-centered development.”

    Hon. Repete made this assertion while addressing party stakeholders and community leaders in Ibadan, where he highlighted the far-reaching developmental strides recorded under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    According to him, President Tinubu’s leadership has demonstrated uncommon political will through strategic economic reforms, fiscal restructuring, infrastructure revitalization, and governance innovations aimed at repositioning Nigeria for long-term prosperity.

    Courageous Economic Reforms

    Repete applauded the President’s decisive steps toward economic stabilization, including subsidy reform, exchange rate unification, and revenue restructuring, noting that while such policies require sacrifice, they lay the foundation for sustainable national growth.

    “President Tinubu has shown that leadership is about courage and vision. The reforms we are witnessing today are designed to rescue our economy, restore investor confidence, and secure the future of our generation,” Repete stated.

    He further emphasized that targeted social intervention programmes, student loan initiatives, MSME support schemes, and youth empowerment policies are clear indicators that the administration is not only reform-driven but people-focused.

    Infrastructure and National Development

    Hon. Repete also praised the renewed attention given to infrastructure development across transportation, energy, and digital economy sectors. He described the administration’s drive to expand rail networks, rehabilitate federal roads, strengthen power reforms, and enhance digital inclusion as “a strategic masterstroke for economic productivity and job creation.”

    He noted that under President Tinubu, governance has taken a reform-oriented dimension—prioritizing institutional efficiency, transparency, and national competitiveness.

    A Loyal Progressive Ready to Serve

    Positioning himself as a committed progressive aligned with the President’s vision, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) reaffirmed his readiness to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda at the grassroots level if entrusted with the ticket to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

    “Asiwaju’s leadership is redefining Nigeria’s political and economic architecture. We, at the constituency level, must consolidate these gains by ensuring effective representation, people-centered legislation, and unwavering loyalty to the progressive ideals that brought this administration to power,” Repete declared.

    He assured party leaders and stakeholders that his aspiration is driven by competence, grassroots connection, and ideological alignment with the President’s developmental blueprint.

    A Bridge Between Presidency and the People

    Political observers note that Repete’s consistent support for the Tinubu administration signals his strategic positioning as a bridge between the presidency and the people of Ibadan North. His message resonates strongly within progressive circles that seek representatives who can effectively interpret and implement federal initiatives at the constituency level.

    As the political landscape gradually shapes toward the next electoral cycle, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) stands out as a vibrant voice championing continuity, loyalty, and reform-driven representation.

    With Renewed Hope gaining traction nationwide, Repete’s open endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscores his commitment to responsible leadership and his determination to deliver purposeful representation that aligns seamlessly with the vision of the presidency.

    Indeed, as Nigeria navigates a transformative era, Repete presents himself not merely as an aspirant—but as a dependable partner in progress.

  • Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

    Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

    Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎An educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Yeye (Dr.) Afolashade Shona-Aluko has urged women in society to remain focused, hardworking and confident, noting that they often have to work twice as hard as men to succeed in life.

     

    ‎Yeye Shona-Aluko, who shared her life experiences as someone who rose from humble beginnings through God’s grace, resilience and hard work, said she never pursued a throne but rather that the throne found her as a result of her dedication and commitment.

     

    ‎The Chief Executive Officer of DLA Children Playground Equipment and Toys Ltd. explained that her passion and commitment to education motivated her to venture into the supply of playground equipment and educational materials to schools across the country for more than 15 years.

     

    ‎Because of her integrity and unblemished reputation, she has partnered with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and several State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) to supply educational equipment and materials to schools in order to enhance teaching and learning nationwide.

     

    ‎A philanthropist at heart, Yeye Shona-Aluko has also been using her God-given resources to support women, youths, children and persons with disabilities, helping to make life more meaningful and bearable for them.

     

    ‎Her immense contributions to children’s education also earned her recognition from Ikeja Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, which honoured her with an award. She has equally been supporting children with special needs by paying the salaries of teachers handling their education.

     

    ‎As the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, she has empowered many women and youths through vocational training programmes such as tailoring, baking, hairdressing and other skills, with the aim of making beneficiaries self-reliant.

     

    ‎Born in Kaduna over five decades ago, Yeye Afolashade Shona-Aluko embraced discipline and determination as guiding principles on her journey to greatness. She attended Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, Kwara State, before proceeding to the Federal College of Education, Kabuga, Kano State.

     

    ‎Her pursuit of education was not without challenges, but resilience and perseverance paved the way for her academic success. She later advanced her studies at Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye—now Olabisi Onabanjo University—where she earned a degree in Educational Management.

     

    ‎Yeye Shona-Aluko began her professional career as a classroom teacher, where she earned a reputation for discipline and commitment to her students, many of whom are today excelling in various professions.

     

    ‎Over the years, her remarkable contributions to education, entrepreneurship and humanitarian service have earned her numerous awards, honours, recognitions and a chieftaincy title from the throne of the revered monarch, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

     

    ‎She was installed as the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua in October 2025 by the Ooni of Ife at a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries from across the globe. The ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, witnessed a vibrant celebration on the installation day, which also boosted local economic activities.

     

    ‎Among her numerous recognitions are the Philanthropist of the Year 2024 Award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FRCN Ibadan Chapel; the 2023 Sterling Award from the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN); and the Lagos State Ministry of Education Award for her contributions to special education.

     

    ‎She has also received the Ikeja High School Leadership Award for her dedication to teachers and students, as well as the Oodua Special Recognition Award (OSRA) 2024.

     

    ‎Other honours include the Golden Star Award for Empowerment and Community Development from Security Watch Africa in Doha, Qatar, and the Award of Excellence on Human Development and Social Services from the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.

     

    ‎In 2025, Yeye Shona-Aluko received honorary doctorate degrees from European American University and Kingdom Life University, Florida, and she is also a Fellow of the Institute of Purchasing and Marketing Consultant.

     

    ‎She currently serves as the National Matron of the Association of Female Artisans of Nigeria (AOFAW), an organisation with membership across all states of the federation.

     

    ‎In recognition of her immense contributions to society and human development, she has been invited as a Special Guest of Honour to the Pan-Afrikan Drum Festival in Canada scheduled for July 2026. Earlier in June this year, she is also expected to receive the Silent Hero in Philanthropy Award.

  • Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

    Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

    Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

     

    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

    ‎The family of veteran Nigerian gospel singer and evangelist, Deborah Adebola Fasoyin, has dismissed reports of her death circulating on social media, describing the claims as false.

    ‎Rumours of the alleged death of the 86-year-old gospel icon began trending early Monday, sparking concern among fans and members of Nigeria’s gospel music community, with several online posts claiming the revered choir leader had passed away.

     

    ‎However, a family member who spoke with journalists said the reports were unfounded, confirming that the veteran singer is alive and in good health.

     

    ‎“The news is entirely fake. Mama is hale, hearty and healthy. There is no truth to the rumours,” the source said.

     

    ‎Fasoyin is widely regarded as a pioneer of indigenous Yoruba gospel music. She rose to prominence as leader of the Good Women Choir of the Christ Apostolic Church, Ibadan.

     

    ‎Born on March 1, 1940, in Oyo Town, she developed an early passion for music through her church choir.

     

    ‎One of the choir’s most popular songs, Odun Nlo Sopin, became a household anthem played during end-of-year thanksgiving celebrations in many Nigerian homes.

     

    ‎The choir has recorded over 25 albums, cementing Fasoyin’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential gospel music figures.

     

    ‎Her family urged the public to verify information before sharing it online to avoid unnecessary panic.

     

    ‎“Mama is doing well. There is no cause for alarm,” the source added.

  • IPMAN felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures facilitating his re-election

    IPMAN felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures facilitating his re-election

    IPMAN felicitates Gov. Mbah @ 54, assures facilitating his re-election

    The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has felicitated Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State on his 54th birthday anniversary, while assuring him of the association commitment to his re-election.

    The Chairman , IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, Mr Chinedu Anyaso, gave the congratulatory message to Mbah in a statement issued to newsmen in Enugu on Monday.

    Anyaso noted that IPMAN and other petroleum industry bodies are proud that “one of our own, coming from the petroleum industry, is setting the pace in leadership and people-focussed governance in the country.”

    The IPMAN boss described Mbah as an impactful leader, noting that his administration’s developmental infrastructure, programmes and policies had made the state better and “one to be reckoned with”.

    He called for the sustenance of the technology-driven security measures in Enugu State, which, he said, had enhanced business activities in the state.

    According to him, we are aware of your giant strides in education, health, tech-innovation, youths empowerment and skills upscale programmes, environmental management and upgrading, upgrade on transport and transport facilities and lots more.

    “On behalf of the entire members of the IPMAN Enugu Depot Unit, we wish you a wonderful and fulfilling 54 years birthday and prayer that the good Lord grant you many more beautiful years ahead in good health and abundant grace.

    “As our own, who have made us proud, we are with you throughout this campaign period to the fulfillment of your re-election as we earnestly work  and pray.

    “May the Almighty always illuminate your path; as indeed it is a new dawn for us in Enugu State. Once again happy birthday Your Excellency,” he said.

  • Sokoto Eye-Care, Sightsavers offers eye care services to High Court Judges, others

    Sokoto Eye-Care, Sightsavers offers eye care services to High Court Judges, others

    Sokoto Eye-Care, Sightsavers offers eye care services to High Court Judges, others

    Sokoto State Eye-Care Programme in collaboration with Sightsavers Nigeria have offered free eye care services to High Court Judges and others in Sokoto State.

    The Programme Manager, Dr Nasir Umar told the Newsmen that the exercise was part of the commemoration of 2026 World Glacauma Week.

    Umar said the exercise comprised Glacauma screening, optic nerve and intraultra pressure checks and offered medications as well as provide free eye glasses to citizens.

    He said the exercise was also to create awarenesses of glaucoma prevalences, screen people to detect early glaucoma and offer management tips.

    ” We superceded the initial target of 50 people as more people patronised the services making the exercise a great success.

    ” Many people have benefited with medications, free eye glasses and other supports during the exercise,” Umar-Yabo said.

    A beneficiary, Kabiru Jafaru, expressed appreciation over the support and thanked the organizers stressing that with the free eye glasses given to him he can now see very well.

    Cross-section of other beneficiaries commended Sightsavers for the exercise which would surely health peoples health condition and general well-being.

    The exercise also featured general eye screening, virtual equity, conjunctivitis, pandoscapy and provision of reading glasses and allergy test.

  • ADC suspends ward chairman, 2 others over Ireti Kingibe’s purported suspension

    ADC suspends ward chairman, 2 others over Ireti Kingibe’s purported suspension

     

    The FCT chapter of African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday suspended three executive members from Wuse Ward in Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) for allegedly spearheading the controversial suspension of Sen. Ireti Kingibe.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Kingibe currently represents FCT at the Senate.

    The suspended executive members include: the ward Chairman, Kanayo Chukwu as well as Amanda Pam and Omale Suleiman.

    Addressing newsmen and party members in Abuja, a member of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), Emmanuel Destiny, said the purported suspension was in violation with the party’s constitution and laid-down procedures.

    Destiny also said that the suspension lacked legitimacy as due process was not followed.

    “The party is supreme to every individual. Until now, the national wing of the party has not been served any letter of complaint or petition against Sen. Kingibe.

    “You cannot wake up and suspend a serving senator without putting your complaints or petition in writing,” he said.

    Destiny added that the national leadership would not condone what he described as misconduct by the ward officials.

    “We are fully present to say ‘No’ to such shenanigans and the misbehaviour of a self-acclaimed Wuse ward chairman not recognised by the party.

    “Whatever gangsterism they have been parading in the last 72 hours, the national wing of the party will take full disciplinary action against them,” he stated.

    Also weighing in on the controversy, the party’s Deputy National Auditor, Princess Nneka Nneboh, said the leadership could no longer remain silent after giving those involved ample opportunity to follow due process.

    “It is of no use keeping quiet because we asked them to do the right thing and follow the proper channel.

    “Whatever decision we take here today stands, and as a national officer, I want to say it is time to call a spade a spade. Enough is enough,” she said.

    The FCT Secretary of the party, John Hyginus, also criticised what he described as administrative lapses and disregard for the party’s constitution.

    “We are here to address the administrative incompetence of the state chairman and the gross breach of the party’s constitution as well as several anti-party activities he has committed.

    “Today, the ward and area council chairmen have passed a vote of no confidence in the three initiators of Sen. Kingibe’s suspension,” he said.

    NAN reports that the meeting, held at ADC’s FCT secretariat in Abuja, drew representatives from key organs of the party, including the FCT Chairman, Clement Ihigiato; the Secretary, John Hyginus; AMAC Chairman, Emeka Nnamani, Danlami Zuru and Jemila Ahmadu, among others.

    NAN also reports that the controversy began earlier in the week when officials of the party’s Wuse ward announced Kingibe’s suspension over allegations of anti-party activities, insubordination and breach of party rules.

    The senator was also accused of withholding funds meant for the party’s campaigns during the recent area council elections in the FCT.

    The national leadership of the party, however, distanced itself from the suspension.

    In an earlier statement, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, urged the public and the media to disregard the report, describing it as false and misleading.

    The motion seeking the suspension of the three ward executives was moved by an ADC chieftain from Wuse ward, Danlami Zuru, and seconded by an exco member from the ward, Samuel Dimgba.

    In an open letter reportedly sent to members of the party’s National Working Committee, the ward publicity secretary, Samuel Nwigbo, had raised concerns on how “a serious party” would attempt to go into a major election with a candidate who refused to openly campaign for her party in an election held within her constituency.

  • CCIDESOR, others task citizens on budget preparation, monitoring in LGs

    CCIDESOR, others task citizens on budget preparation, monitoring in LGs

    CCIDESOR, others task citizens on budget preparation, monitoring in LGs

    The Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights (CCIDESOR) and Nigeria Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Situation Room have tasked citizens on participation in local government budget preparation and monitoring.

    The Executive Director of CCIDESOR, Dr Emeka Ononamadu, gave the task at the weekend in Enugu during an ongoing Budget Participation and Capital Budget Monitoring Training.

    Ononamadu noted that Nigerians and the vast majority living in suburb and rural council areas had been shortchanged over the years do to their docile nature.

    “Our people fail to ask questions and get clarification on what is happening to the monthly and yearly budget of their immediate council areas and allowing politicians and their cronies to continue to manipulate them,” he said.

    The executive director noted that objectives and benefits of budget participation and budget monitoring included: to verify the existence of budgeted projects and to assess compliance with due process in project award.

    “To determine the cost and value of projects; to evaluate the quality and standard of implemented projects; to determine the relevance of projects to community needs and to assess the level of community participation.

    “To establish the Implementation timeline of projects; to evaluate the utilisation and Impact of the projects; and to assess equity in project distribution across wards within a given council area among others,” he said.

    He said that CCIDESOR in collaboration with Nigeria Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Situation Room, would carrying the field practice of the training in Abia, Imo and Enugu States.

    Speaking, one of the participants at the training, Mr Samuel Ani, appreciated the CSOs for coming out with modalities to make those in localities participate in the practical development of their areas.

    Ani, who is the Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), assured that the youths would be mobilised to participate in the affairs of their council areas to check waste and lack in localities.

    Another participant, Onyinye Mamah, Executive Director, Heroine Women Foundation, said that a functional council system would benefit women the more and help to rise their socioeconomic status.

    Mamah, who is also the President, Women Support women for Human Empowerment and Mentorship Initiative, said that women groups are backing the training and its field survey to make the local government system work for all.

    A total of 30 participants drawn from CSOs, youths and women groups as well as the media attended the training.

    The training was organised by CCIDESOR and Nigeria Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) Situation Room with sponsorship of UK International Development.

  • ENGR. DR. TAOFEEk ADEKUNLE ABDUL-HAMEED: A LEGACY CARVED IN GOLD AT FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC AYEDE

    ENGR. DR. TAOFEEk ADEKUNLE ABDUL-HAMEED: A LEGACY CARVED IN GOLD AT FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC AYEDE

    When history recounts the rise of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, one name will stand tall, indelible and evergreen — Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, FNSE.

    As the Pioneer Rector concludes his historic five-year tenure, what remains is not merely a record of service, but a monumental legacy of vision, courage, structure, and transformational leadership that has permanently altered the trajectory of the institution.

    Appointed at inception in 2021, Engr. Dr. Abdul-Hameed did not inherit an established system; he built one. From bare foundations to a nationally respected polytechnic, he translated policy into progress and vision into verifiable milestones. Within an exceptionally short institutional lifespan, Federal Polytechnic Ayede evolved into one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing technical institutions — a feat widely acknowledged among the six polytechnics established in its era.

    Under his leadership, the Polytechnic secured approvals for thirteen (13) National Diploma programmes across five academic schools — spanning Engineering Technology, Science and Technology, Environmental Studies, Management Sciences, and Agricultural Technology. What began with four pioneer programmes rapidly expanded into a comprehensive academic structure fully accredited by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).

    More than expansion, his tenure was defined by substance.

    Over sixty-eight (68) major infrastructural, ICT, laboratory, and utility projects were executed across both the Temporary and Permanent Campuses through strategic engagement with TETFund interventions, Federal Government appropriations, and institutional partnerships. Administrative complexes, engineering workshops, ICT centres, health facilities, departmental buildings, digital infrastructure, power installations, internal road networks, and specialized laboratories now stand as physical testimonies to disciplined planning and prudent financial stewardship.

    In research and innovation, the Polytechnic recorded over sixty-four Institution-Based Research projects and multiple TETFund-supported fabrication initiatives — reinforcing its mandate as a centre for applied technology and problem-solving.

    Human capital development equally flourished. Fifteen academic staff members secured postgraduate scholarships, while nearly two hundred staff benefitted from professional development engagements locally and internationally. Institutional stability was strengthened through the formal inauguration of staff unions, ensuring structured representation and industrial harmony.

    Perhaps most symbolic of his success was the historic Maiden Combined Convocation Ceremony, where 325 graduates were presented to the world — many earning distinctions and all graduating not only with National Diplomas but with additional vocational certifications through the Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (CSAED). This dual-certification model positioned graduates as job creators rather than job seekers — a direct alignment with Nigeria’s technical and entrepreneurial development priorities.

    Crucially, he successfully commenced the strategic relocation to the Permanent Site in Ayede — overcoming longstanding infrastructural constraints and firmly anchoring the institution within its host community. This decisive move marked the transition from foundation-building to consolidation.

    Through deliberate governance, transparent fund utilization, collaborative stakeholder engagement, and unwavering institutional focus, Engr. Dr. Abdul-Hameed established administrative systems, academic standards, infrastructural frameworks, and a growth culture that will endure far beyond his tenure.

    While this milestone is rightly centered on his leadership, it is important to acknowledge the collective strength of his principal management team — Mr. Akin Odesola (Registrar), Alhaja Rashidat Titilola Oladepo (Bursar), and Dr. Oke Ogunniyi (Polytechnic Librarian) — whose professional support complemented the Rector’s strategic drive and ensured administrative balance throughout this formative era.

    Five years later, Federal Polytechnic Ayede is no longer an emerging institution; it is a structured, accredited, research-active, infrastructure-grounded Polytechnic with a clear academic identity and national relevance.

    Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed’s name is not merely recorded in the annals of the institution — it is engraved into its foundation. His tenure represents proof that visionary public-sector leadership, when matched with competence and accountability, can deliver measurable national impact within a compressed timeframe.

    As he bows out as Pioneer Rector, he leaves behind a thriving institution, a strengthened workforce, empowered graduates, and a development blueprint worthy of replication at national scale.

    Indeed, Federal Polytechnic Ayede will continue to rise.
    And history will forever remember the man who built it.

  • Reps hopeful Kehinde Bello vows equitable distribution of meaningful projects

    Reps hopeful Kehinde Bello vows equitable distribution of meaningful projects

    By Lawal Abdullahi-Jubril

    A House of Representatives aspirant, representing Ijebu North- Ijebu East- Ogun Waterside Federal constituency, Kehinde Bello, has assured residents of equitable distribution of meaningful development projects across all communities in the constituency if elected.

    Bello gave the assurance while addressing supporters, emphasizing his commitment to inclusive governance and grassroots development.

    Bello noted that his representation would prioritize fairness by ensuring that no ward or community is neglected in the execution of development initiatives.

    He explained that his vision is to attract projects that directly impact the lives of ordinary people.

    Bello stressed that development must be people-centered and evenly spread to achieve sustainable growth.

    The aspirant further stated that he intends to establish a transparent system for identifying the needs of different communities.

    Through consultations with traditional rulers, youth groups, women associations, and other stakeholders, he said his office would ensure that projects reflect the real priorities of the people.

    Bello also promised to champion empowerment programmes that would create opportunities for young people and women across the constituency.

    He noted that economic empowerment remains a key factor in reducing unemployment and strengthening local economies.

    He said effective representation goes beyond making laws, adding that a legislator must also serve as a bridge between the people and government institutions.

    Bello assured constituents that he would maintain open communication channels to keep residents informed about projects and policies affecting them.

    While highlighting the importance of accountability, Bello pledged to regularly brief constituents on his activities if chosen to represent them.

    According to him, transparency and periodic engagement with the electorate would help build trust and ensure that public resources are used for the collective good.

    Bello reiterated that unity among communities would be essential to attracting federal attention and development projects.

    He encouraged residents to work together and support initiatives that promote peace, cooperation, and progress within the constituency.

    He lauded the leadership of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state led by Gov. Dapo Abiodun, the party Chairman, Yemi Sanusi and the leadership of the party in his federal constituency for ensuring the stability and growth of the party.

    NAN/Flowerbudnews