Year: 2026

Mothers’ Sunday: Oji River Council Chairman, Anyaegbudike, hails virtues of mothers

Mothers’ Sunday: Oji River Council Chairman, Anyaegbudike, hails virtues of mothers

The Chairman of Oji River Local Government Area in Enugu State, Mr Greg Anyaegbudike, has extolled virtues of mothers in building and sustaining peaceful and progressive homes.

Anyaegbudike gave the appreciation in a Mothering Sunday congratulatory message he issued on Sunday to newsmen in Enugu to commemorate this year’s Mothering Sunday.

In a message he themed: “You Are the Amazing Heartbeat of Our Families”, the chairman appreciated the multi-task achieving potentials of mothers that keep the family running smoothly.

According to him, from managing homes to building strong foundations for the Church, communities and the nation; your contributions to humanity are immeasurable.

“As we mark this year’s occasion of Mothering Sunday, may I on behalf of the Government and people of Oji River Local Government Area, extend my hearty felicitations to all mothers.

“Particularly those in the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Methodist Church, Nigeria and other denominations in Oji River Local Government Area and beyond celebrating Mothering Sunday today.

“We recognise the love, support, care and selfless sacrifices you make for our families, the Church and the society at large. Thank you for all you do.

“We appreciate you, not just today but every day. God bless all mothers. Happy Mothering Sunday,” he said.

March 15, 2026
Why China and Russia are keeping out of the Iran war
While condemning the war, China and Russia have refrained from providing military support, reflecting the limitations of their strategic partnerships with Iran

Wars often reveal the true strength and limitations of international alliances and partnerships. During the 12-day war of June 2025, Iran was left to fight largely on its own.

Apart from backing from Yemen’s Houthis, officially known as Ansar Allah, hardly any actors came to Tehran’s aid. The absence of meaningful action from China and Russia left many in Iran bitterly disappointed.

Now, as the United States and Israel again wage war against Iran, the conflict is forcing a renewed examination of Tehran’s partnerships with Beijing and Moscow, and the extent to which the Chinese and Russians are willing to stand by the Islamic Republic.

Beijing and Moscow’s early reactions

In response to the launch of Operation Epic Fury late last month, the Chinese and Russian authorities issued strong condemnations of the United States and Israel.

On 28 February, Chinese officials expressed deep concern but waited until the following day for China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi, to condemn the American and Israeli bombing of Iran as unacceptable.

He called for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic talks. Speaking by phone with his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, Wang also denounced the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as the “blatant killing of a sovereign leader”.

A week later, Beijing’s top diplomat warned that “plotting a ‘colour’ revolution or seeking government change will find no popular support” in Iran, while urging the international community to respect Iran’s sovereignty and calling on Washington and Tel Aviv to halt their military operations immediately.

Moscow responded in much the same vein. Russia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry condemned the American–Israeli assault on Iran as a “pre-planned and unprovoked act of armed aggression against a sovereign and independent UN member state”. President Vladimir Putin likewise denounced the assassination of Khamenei as a “cynical murder”.

On 9 March, Putin sent Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, a message of support. “I would like to reaffirm our unwavering support for Tehran and solidarity with our Iranian friends,” wrote the Russian leader, who added that “Russia has been and will remain a reliable partner” to Iran.

“At a time when Iran is confronting armed aggression, your tenure in this high position will undoubtedly require great courage and dedication,” added Putin.

Throughout this war, Iran’s leadership has stressed the importance of Tehran’s partnership with Moscow. On 8 March, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told NBC News’ “Meet the Press” that “cooperation between Iran and Russia is not something new, it’s not a secret” and that the Russians “are helping us in many different directions”.

As the US and Israel again wage war, the conflict is forcing a renewed examination of Iran’s partnerships with Beijing and Moscow, and the extent to which they are willing to stand by the Islamic Republic. [Getty]

Why China and Russia remain cautious

Not even two weeks into the war, predicting how events in the region will unfold is extremely difficult. Nonetheless, there is likely good reason to expect that China and Russia will tread carefully to avoid becoming too entangled in the United States-Israel-Iran conflict.

In Beijing’s case, its capacity to deter the American-Israeli alliance is extremely limited. While China wields significant economic influence in the Middle East, its willingness to intervene in regional crises through hard-power measures is low.

A key factor is Beijing’s desire to avoid direct confrontation with Washington. Thus, although Iran’s missile program depends on Chinese technology, there is no guarantee that Beijing would supply missiles to Tehran while the war continues.

President Xi Jinping will host Trump in China from 31 March to 2 April, and Beijing’s leadership will likely avoid responding to Middle East conflict dynamics in ways that could further complicate the delicate issues in China-US relations that the two leaders are set to address in person.

“For the Chinese, the war is a lower priority than the Trump-Xi meeting at the end of March, where tariffs are expected to be discussed, among other issues. Again, supporting Iran overtly with military aid will only jeopardise the meeting,” explained Dr Li-Chen Sim, an Associate Fellow at the US-based Middle East Institute, in an interview with The New Arab.

“China has ample supplies of oil in strategic and commercial reserves – enough to last three to four months – and they can engage in fuel switching from LNG to coal/pipeline gas from Russia and Myanmar in power plants to mitigate any prolonged supply issues from Qatar,” she added.

Russia appears to be doing more than China to assist Iran in tangible ways. Moscow is reportedly providing Tehran with intelligence on the locations and movements of US troops, ships, and aircraft.

These disclosures mark the first indication that Moscow may be seeking to involve itself in the United States-Israel-Iran war. Much of the shared information has reportedly come from Russia’s advanced network of reconnaissance satellites.

However, it remains unclear what, if anything, Russia is receiving in return for this assistance, or whether any individual Iranian strike can be directly traced to Moscow’s targeting intelligence.

Nonetheless, several Iranian drones have hit sites where there was a presence of US military forces. On 1 March, an Iranian drone struck a facility housing American personnel in Kuwait, killing six US service members.

In any event, such reports about Russia assisting Iran with intelligence sharing highlight how Moscow continues to maintain a close relationship with Tehran, especially within the context of Iranian support for Russia in the Ukraine war.

China and Russia are treading carefully to avoid becoming too entangled in the United States-Israel-Iran conflict. [Getty]

Still, as some analysts have noted, Russia’s involvement in this conflict is, like China’s, largely about issuing statements condemning Washington and Tel Aviv’s aggression against Iran.

Moscow’s overall calculus is that there is much to gain from Western powers becoming distracted by this war in the Middle East because that means the “less stringently secondary sanctions over its oil trade will be enforced – and this will present more wiggle room for China and India, its erstwhile customers, to buy its oil without too much fear of penalties,” Dr Sim told TNA.

“The longer the war lasts, the fewer missiles the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom can sell/transfer to Ukraine, a theatre that is more important to Russia than the Middle East. Consequently, the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom will prioritise replenishing their own missile stocks over providing supplies to Ukraine,” she noted.

Additionally, Dr Sim pointed out that the Northern Sea Route via Russia becomes more attractive as uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz persists, ultimately making it easier for the Russians to, over time, reestablish their oil and LNG resources as credible alternatives to Middle Eastern hydrocarbon supplies.

“[Russia] supporting Iran with overt military help at this point in time will jeopardise all of the above considerations,” she told TNA.

“About the only thing Iran can count on is diplomatic outreach from Moscow and Beijing. They’re not going to go to bat for Iran militarily,” explained John Feffer, director of Foreign Policy in Focus at the Washington, DC-based Institute for Policy Studies.

“Sure, Russia sells weapons to Iran, and China supplies some dual-use tech. But Israel has led these attacks in part because it has calculated that Iran is quite isolated,” he added.

Economic stakes and regional stability

None of this suggests that China and Russia lack high stakes in the conflict. Beijing is deeply concerned about long-term instability in the Gulf, largely for economic reasons. As the world’s largest importer of crude oil, China remains heavily reliant on the Middle East as a cornerstone of its energy supply.

In recent years, roughly 90 percent of Iran’s oil exports have been directed to China, often at discounted prices that allowed Beijing to cushion sanctions-related risks and fluctuations in global markets.

As some analysts note, however, what once served as a strategic advantage has increasingly become a source of vulnerability. Even the mere prospect of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz can send insurance premiums soaring, force tankers onto longer routes, and inject fresh volatility into global markets.

Asian manufacturing economies are especially sensitive to sustained oil price increases. China’s economic model continues to depend heavily on industrial output and exports, meaning that rising energy costs come with tangible political risks.

For Russia, one of the greatest concerns is the potential collapse of the Iranian state, which Trump recently stated is a probable outcome of this war. Instability stemming from a fragmented Iran could spill across neighbouring countries, potentially affecting the Caucasus and Central Asia. Put simply, for Moscow, the prospect of chaos in Iran hits uncomfortably close to home.

China and Russia also have strong interests in maintaining peace and stability among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states – all six of which have been targeted by Iran’s retaliatory strikes.

With Beijing and Moscow maintaining extensive economic and diplomatic ties with the Gulf monarchies, and with many of their citizens living in Dubai and other GCC cities, there is no denying that Iran’s actions since 28 February have alarmed both powers.

All these factors help explain why Putin has sought to convince Trump that winding down this war as quickly as possible is necessary. On 9 March, the two leaders had their first phone conversation since the current war on Iran began.

In what Trump said was a “very good call,” he and Putin addressed Iran and Ukraine. According to the Russian president’s foreign policy adviser, Yuri Ushakov, Putin set forth “several proposals” for concluding the US-Israel-Iran conflict.

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A more China-oriented Middle East?

Despite their vested interests in seeing the conflict wind down, China and Russia will likely judge that maintaining distance from the United States-Israel-Iran war best serves their strategic goals, given the risks of deeper involvement.

At the same time, both powers may take heart in the prospect of a more multipolar, less West-centric world emerging once the dust settles.

With the Islamic Republic’s third Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, now at the helm, Iran is extremely unlikely to have any opening to the West at any point in the foreseeable future. This means that Tehran is set to further double down on its ‘Look East’ foreign policy orientation.

The GCC states, while angry at Washington for initiating what Gulf Arabs overwhelmingly see as an unnecessary and reckless war that undermined their security, despite diplomatic efforts by GCC members, especially Oman, to avert it, will likely feel greater urgency in pursuing a higher level of autonomy from the United States.

How much this dynamic will draw the Gulf states closer to China and Russia remains uncertain, but it is a serious possibility given their declining confidence in Washington’s ability to act as a reliable security guarantor and promoter of regional stability.

Beyond the Gulf and the wider Arab world, Washington’s latest war of choice in the Middle East carries significant geopolitical ramifications that extend far beyond the immediate conflict.

“The Global South is looking for a power that can counterbalance the erratic United States. China, more so than the BRICS, has cohesive policies and the resources to serve as a stabilising force in geopolitics. This Iran War could be a turning point in terms of the balance of power on war and peace issues,” concluded Feffer.
March 15, 2026
Governor Adeleke Chides Osun APC, Says Federal Might is for Good Governance, Not Election Rigging

– Egbedun, Alabi, Oladipo, Bisi, Others Drum Support for Adeleke’s Re-election Bid

By Iyiola Olalere

Oshogbo: Governor Ademola Adeleke has chided the Osun State chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for its condemnable threats to unleash federal might on Osun voters on August 15, warning that federal might is for Good governance, not election rigging.

Addressing leaders and ward officials of the enlarged Accord across the 332 wards in Osun state, the governor berated the Osun APC for dragging President Bola Tinubu’s names in mud through its constant vow to deploy federal institutions to rig forthcoming elections.

Gov. Adeleke clarified that Mr President as a democrat is not involved in such brazen anti-democratic boasts, a statement by Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor disclosed.

“The President is using federal power to deliver on good governance like the ongoing reconstruction of Ibadan-Ilesa road, the loan programmes for students, the pledge to institute state police among others, noting that neither the president nor the top leaders around him supports threats by the Osun APC to disrupt upcoming Osun polls.

“I task Osun APC to stop denigrating the names of Mr President and the Federal Government. Instead of supporting Mr President and showing the world that the number one citizen is a democrat in words and actions, Osun APC’s campaign slogans have been all the way anti-people and anti-democracy.

“Osun people are passionate about free and fair elections. Our people are insistent on their votes deciding who wins, who governs them. Our duty as candidates is to market our manifestoes and seek their votes. Only electoral bandits boast of rigging in a democracy”, the governor told the party chiefs and leaders.

“I call on Osun people to sustain and heighten their preparedness for August 15. Your votes will determine the winners. No force can override the people and God. Ignore those threatening you with federal power. They don’t have the support of Mr President”, the governor noted.

The main speaker at the event, Rt Hon Lasun Yusuf charged the leaders to be on electoral war footing through house to house mobilisation and defence of votes and voting processes, declaring that the people own the power and their votes must count.

Chairman of Elders’ Forum, Senator Olu Alabi called on elders across the local governments to launch out on electoral preparations to deliver their areas for Accord and ensure the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The Chairman of Imole Movement, Prof. Wale Oladipo and the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Sunday Bisi reaffirmed the endorsement of Governor Ademola Adeleke by the PDP, directing that PDP structures across the state should work and deliver votes for Governor Adeleke.

House Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun who was accompanied by members of the Osun State House of Assembly urged leaders at the meeting to target over two million membership registration for the Accord, vowing that the governor will be overwhelmingly re-elected come August 15th.

March 15, 2026
Liberia’s Electoral Chief Browne-Lansanah Resigns Amid Controversies

*By Paul Ejime

Madam Davidetta Browne-Lansanah, Chairperson of Liberia’s National Elections Commission (NEC), has announced her resignation effective 15th March 2026, about a year before the expiry of her tenure in April 2027.

A veteran broadcast journalist with public administration experience, including a stint in the UN system before joining NEC 11 years ago as a commissioner, Browne-Lansanah delivered Liberia’s widely acclaimed general elections in October 2023.

She served as Co-Chair and Acting Chair before assuming the substantive position as NEC’s fifth Chairperson in 2020, pledging to “strengthen the Commission’s core values of independence, integrity, professionalism and consistency.”

Her leadership style resonates strongly across the ECOWAS region, which is grappling with insecurity, resurgence of military incursions in politics, manipulated elections, and poor governance.

Three of the four member states of the 15-nation organisation, ruled by the military, have left to form the Alliance of Shael States, AES, with Liberia, Senegal and Ghana holding up some hope for the survival of electoral democracy in the politically restive region.

Liberia’s NEC is no stranger to controversies. In 2011, James Fromayan, one of Madam Browne-Lansanah’s predecessors, was forced to step down after being accused of bias by the then-opposition leader George Weah. The same George Weah, as President, appointed Madam Browne-Lansanah as NEC Chair in April 2020 and lost his re-election bid in the 2023 elections conducted by her.

“I have done my best,” Madam Browne-Lansanah told this writer in a telephone chat on Saturday, 14th March. “I want to focus on my family as a single mother,” she added.

Since assuming leadership of the NEC, Madam Browne-Lansanah has faced a running battle with some of her commissioner colleagues, suspected of acting on behalf of politically exposed persons to undermine her position.

Last year, she was accused of “unilaterally announcing the closure of the NEC office for one month and dismissing 25 employees (for insubordination) without the knowledge or approval of the NEC Board of Commissioners, as required by law.”

This led to protests by some employees at the NEC headquarters in Monrovia and resulted in her suspension in January 2025 by the government of President Joseph Boakai. The government reinstated her one month later.

In lifting her suspension, the president expressed the hope that the “uncertainty surrounding the NEC has been addressed, clearing the way for the smooth conduct of (then) upcoming Nimba County by-election to fill the vacancy left as a result of the passing of Senator Prince Yormie Johnson.”

However, NEC’s internal wrangling and alleged external interference continued, culminating in Madam Browne-Lansanah’s sudden resignation, which she first announced on Thursday during a tour of the ongoing renovation of the NEC’s headquarters in Monrovia.

She told the media and development partners: “I have conveyed this (decision) to the President’s Office, and I await to hear from him. It is time to move on and give any other person the opportunity to run the Elections Commission.”

“I am happy because I have done my best,” she added.

Informed sources link her sudden resignation to “mounting pressure” following an undisclosed audit report that allegedly raised concerns about administrative and financial practices at NEC.

A major source of disagreement during her tenure was the procurement of biometric voter registration equipment before the 2023 elections.

Independent observers believe Madam Browne-Lansanah “is targeted for being professional and refusing to bend rules.”

The NEC was part of the 2003 Comprehensive Peace Agreement that ended Liberia’s 14-year civil war. It replaced the 1986 Elections Commission as “an autonomous government institution, independent of any branch of government with powers to run elections in Liberia.”

But as with many other electoral umpires in Africa, political pressure and interference by sitting governments often undermine the electoral process and the independence of the so-called independent/autonomous electoral Commissions, thereby contributing to flawed elections.

Liberia’s next general elections are in October 2029. Madam Browne-Lansanah has done her part with a strong track record; it remains to be seen what her successor will bring.

(*Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst and Consultant on Strategic Governance Communication*)

March 15, 2026
Pray for Nigeria’s Unity, Peace instead of cursing our nation- Dingyadi urges citizens

Pray for Nigeria’s Unity, Peace instead of cursing our nation- Dingyadi urges citizens

Nigerians performing the lesser Hajj in Mecca, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have been advised to refrain from using bulgar language, cursing and criticizing the nation’s leadership while offering prayers during the month of Ramadan.

Yusuf Dingyadi, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the APC National Chairman, made this appeal in a release circulated to press in Sokoto on Sunday

Dingyadi, who is currently in Saudi Arabia performing the Ramadan lesser Hajj with other other Muslims across the globe, noted that those praying against Nigeria and its leadership are contributing to much to the continued crisis, bedevilling the nation, include insecurity and other political challenges.

He expressed sadness and dismay that some group of Nigerians are being recorded on social media abusing, cursing some particular political leaders or openly castigating their leaders in front of the Holy Ka’abah where sensitive decorum, respect and fair of Almighty God is needed above anywhere in the world.

Dingyadi emphasized that those who travel to the Holy land should do so for sacrifices, prayers, and seeking divine redemption, rather than displaying contents or abuses and casting aspersions at leaders because of certain reasons that normally associated with leadership challenges.

He urged Nigerians performing the pilgrimage or lesser Hajj to focus on fervent prayers for Nigeria to overcome its challenges, rather than engaging in negative prayers for the nation and its leaders.

He said this is particularly important now as people are observing the last ten days of Ramadan with greater minds of fear of Almighty God, seeking divine guidance and blessings.

He called on leaders not to be a burden to their people, instead stand firm and bring an end to the numerous challenges facing them, most particular of insecurity, poverty and injustice.

March 15, 2026
Sad: College director killed after giving ₦25.7m, motorcycles to rescue family from bandits

The killing of Malam Bashar Sani, a senior administrator at the College of Education, Maru, by suspected bandits has once again exposed the grim reality of insecurity in parts of Northern Nigeria, where families that pay huge ransoms to rescue loved ones often remain trapped in a vicious cycle of abductions.

Investigations by PRNigeria revealed that the late Sani had paid not less than ₦25.7 million in ransom and other demands over the years to secure the release of family members kidnapped by bandits before he was eventually killed by the same criminal network.

Family members and community sources disclosed that the chain of attacks against the family began a few years ago when bandits abducted Sani’s two wives from their residence at Tsohon Tasha in Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

In a desperate bid to secure their freedom, he reportedly paid ₦2 million to the kidnappers.

Months later, the criminals returned and kidnapped his younger brother, Hassan Sani, forcing the family into another round of negotiations.

Speaking to PRNigeria, Hassan Sani confirmed that his brother paid ₦3.5 million to secure his release.

“In addition to the ₦3.5 million he paid for my freedom, the kidnappers also demanded airtime recharge cards and mobile phones, which he also facilitated and delivered,” Hassan told PRNigeria.

The repeated attacks left the family traumatised and forced Malam Bashar Sani to relocate his household to a more populated area in search of safety.

“My brother and his family moved to a house close to our relatives at Shiyyar ’Yan Hudu in Maru town, hoping he would be safe from these marauders, but unfortunately, he could not escape them,” Hassan said.

For about 18 months, the family enjoyed relative calm before the bandits traced their new location and struck again.

During the raid, the attackers abducted Malam Bashar Sani, one of his wives who had previously been kidnapped, and his daughter, alongside several other residents of the neighbourhood.

Hassan disclosed that the bandits also killed the wife of a policeman and abducted her five children during the same attack.

The kidnappers demanded ₦20 million for the release of Sani and his family members.

According to the family, the ransom was eventually paid in full. In addition to the cash payment, the abductors also demanded motorcycles, airtime recharge cards worth ₦200,000, and four mobile phones, which were delivered to them.

However, the criminals continued to escalate their demands.

“They later demanded 15 motorcycles, but after negotiations, they reduced it to three motorcycles, which we also bought and delivered to them,” Hassan said.

He added that after the additional motorcycles were handed over, the bandits asked the family to return home and wait for further communication regarding the release of the hostages.

“Unknown to us, my brother had already been killed at that time,” he said.

PRNigeria gathered that the kidnappers later directed the family to Gidan Kano village in Maradun Local Government Area to pick up their relatives.

Upon arrival, they found his wife, daughter and other freed hostages, but Malam Bashar Sani was missing.

“When we asked about him, his wife told us that he had already died while in captivity,” Hassan revealed.

Further investigations indicated that the late Sani died in the bandits’ camp after prolonged torture and serious medical complications, including an untreated fractured leg sustained during captivity.

Residents of Maru described the incident as a heartbreaking example of the insecurity plaguing rural communities across Zamfara State, where bandit groups continue to abduct victims for ransom with devastating consequences.

Community leaders said the late Sani was widely respected as an educator and administrator who dedicated his life to public service and the advancement of education in the region.

His death has renewed calls for stronger security interventions to protect vulnerable communities across Zamfara and other parts of Northern Nigeria battling banditry.

Friends, colleagues and community members have continued to mourn the late academic, offering prayers for the repose of his soul.

“May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah,” one mourner said.

March 15, 2026
Nasarawa varsity partners vocational institute to train 500 furniture artisans

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Nasarawa State University, Keffi and Prince Interior Vocational Institute have taken a significant step toward strengthening entrepreneurship and practical skills development among its students aimed at training professional furniture artisans.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the collaboration formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), is expected to produce over 500 furniture artisans within two years.

In her remarks during the signing of the MoU, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Sa’adatu Liman said that the collaboration was one of the criteria for TETFUND guidelines in entrepreneurial development output.

Liman commended the company for finding the institution a worthy and reliable partner for the entrepreneurial and vocational project.

According to her, the partnership will be beneficial to the entire university community.

Earlier, the Director of the university Entrepreneureship Development Centre (EDC) , Prof. Rashidah Olanrewaju, said the university students will benefit from about 50 different skills in the EDC.

She appreciated the company for the partnership and wished the partners a successful and fruitful collaboration.

Also speaking., the Chief Executive Officer, Prince Interior Vocational Institute, Emeka Owgueke explained that the programme targets the establishment of a medium-scale furniture workshop on campus.

He said that the workshop will be equipped with the basic machines to sustain production and reduce the university’s overhead costs on furniture procurement.

According to Owgueke, the partnership represents a shared vision to create opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire marketable skills and build sustainable businesses within the furniture and interior design industry.

He explained that participants in the programme will be exposed to the entire furniture production value chain, including raw material sourcing, product manufacturing, finishing, branding, marketing, and distribution.

He said under the agreement, students of the university will receive hands-on training in furniture making, interior product design, and business development.

” Under the agreement, university students will be enrolled at Prince Interior Vocational Institute to acquire hands-on, certified training in furniture making, interior product design, and business development.

He commended the leadership of the university for recognising the importance of vocational education and enterprise development in addressing youth unemployment and building a resilient local economy.

“We are deeply grateful to Prof. Sa’adatu Liman and the leadership of the Nasarawa State University for recognising our uniqueness and extending this incredible opportunity to us.

” This partnership is more than an academic arrangement — it is a shared commitment to opening doors for more young Nigerians to boldly step into their career journey, whether from scratch, brushing up existing skills, or upgrading to the next level in the interior and design space.”

He said that graduates of the programme will be equipped to launch, scale, and manage furniture enterprises, contributing directly to Nigeria’s industrial and economic growth agenda.

” This aligns with Nigeria’s Buy Naija to Grow the Naija initiative, prioritising locally made, high-quality products over imports.

Students gain profitability-focused mentorship covering production, pricing, branding, and distribution of furniture goods.

” The Institute’s curriculum blends technical craftsmanship with entrepreneurial thinking, ensuring students do not merely learn a trade but learn to build a business also.

” From raw material sourcing to finished product delivery, participants gain a full-cycle understanding of the furniture value chain, including production, pricing, branding, and distribution, ” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

March 15, 2026
Ede Muslim Council felicitates with Engr Taofeek Adekunle Abdulhameed as he bows out as Pioneer Rector, Fed. Polytechnic Ayede

By Biola Lawal
Ede (Osun State): Ede Muslim Council has rejoiced with Engr. Taofeek Adekunle AbdulHameed on the successful completion of his tenure.as the pioneer Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, in Oyo State.

The Council expressed the joy in a congratulatory message signed by the Chairman, Dr Musibaudeen Olatunde Idris and Secretary, Haj. Mujeeb Adekilekun Tijani.

Dr. Olatunde Idris noted the outgoing Rector demonstrated excellent leadership qualities, discipline and integrity in the course of serving the nation as the administrator of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede.

He wrote:
”Imam Abdulhameed, during your successful tenure as the Pioneer Rector of the institution, you demonstrated quality leadership, discipline and integrity which earned you several recognitions from various bodies,””.

Dr. Idris prayed for good health and more prosperity for Engr. AbdulHameed, saying;

”We pray that Allah grant you good health for better opportunities.”

Accept our warmest congratulations, he stated.

March 15, 2026
For the Records: Ayede Polytechnic: The Historic Address of Dr. Taofeek Adekunle AbdulHameed, FEDPA Pioneer Rector – an Embodiment of Integrity, Dedication and Grace

– Federal Polytechnic Ayede is more than just a place of learning; it is a community dedicated to nurturing talents, fostering innovation, and promoting a culture of integrity – Rector

– .This ceremony is not only a celebration of our graduands but also a testament to what purposeful leadership, dedication, and collaboration can achieve within a short period of time.

By Biola Lawal,
Ayede (Oyo State) Few weeks ago, the Campus of the increasingly famous Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, now fondly called, FEDPA, bubbled as the institution held its first ever Convocation ceremony attracting unusually high number of dignitariez from far and near.

The cynosure that day, however, was the pioneer Rector of the Institution, Dr. (Engr.) Taofeek Adekunle AbdulHameed, who through uncommon dedication, unusual leadership qualities nurtured the institution from Day one to unbelievable greatness, popularity and enviable all-round achievements with the first five years of the tertiary institution.

One of the most impressive event of the FEDPA Maiden convocation was the very rich, truthful and inspiring speech delivered by Dr. AbdulHameed. The Editorial Board of FLOWERBUDNEWS decided to present and publish the Historical speech verbatim for future record purposes. It is expected to serve as reference points for his peers as well as future academic and educational administrators.

FULL SPEECH BELOW::
CONVOCATION ADDRESS DELIVERED AT THE COMBINED MAIDEN CONVOCATION CEREMONY FOR 2023/2024 AND 2024/2025 SETS OF FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC AYEDE, OYO STATE BY THE PIONEER RECTOR, ENGR. DR. TAOFEEK ADEKUNLE ABDUL-HAMEED (FNSE), ON THURSDAY, 12TH FEBRUARY, 2026 HELD AT THE INSTITUTION’S PERMANENT SITE, AYEDE, OGO-OLUWA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE

PROTOCOLS:
It is with profound gratitude to Almighty Allah and a deep sense of honour that I welcome you all to this very historic maiden convocation ceremony of the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

Today marks a defining moment in the life of our young but promising Institution; a day that will be remembered as the formal celebration of academic excellence, resilience, and collective vision.This ceremony is not only a celebration of our graduands but also a testament to what purposeful leadership, dedication, and collaboration can achieve within a short period of time.

We gather here today to officially present to the world the first sets of graduates produced by the Federal Polytechnic Ayede. This, indeed, calls for celebration.I wish to express profound gratitude to our Visitor, His Excellency, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), for his tremendous role. The Institution has enjoyed marvelous support through Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the education sector.

I also acknowledge the unwavering commitment of the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa; Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad; the Executive Secretary, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Prof. Idris M. Bugaje; Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arc. Sony Echono; and other regulatory bodies for their guidance, accreditation support, and continuous encouragement which have led us to this feat.Our sincere appreciation goes to the Governing Council of our Polytechnic, ably led by very distinguished and venerated Honourable Yakubu Dati (fnipr) for the strategic direction, policy guidance, and support.

I also commend other Principal Officers, Academic Board, Management Committee, Staff for their sacrifices, professionalism, and belief in the vision of this Institution.Let me emphatically state that Ogbomosoland is one of the best communities in the country and beyond. We have enjoyed maximum cooperation and supports from Ogbomoso sons and daughters too numerous to mention. So, I want to commend my father, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomosoland and the Soun-in-Council for their special interest in the growth of Federal Polytechnic Ayede. His Imperial Majesty has constantly linked us with groups, individuals and government functionaries at the Federal Government level and beyond to come to our aid in diverse areas, including infrastructure and other amenities.

Similarly, I want to also sincerely commend the efforts of His Royal Majesties, the Alajaawa of Ajaawa, Oba Thomas Adeyeye Oyetunji, Atunlute Olumole I; the Onpetu of Ijeru, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, Lagbami Osekun III; Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olusola Alao; Aresa-Pupa of Iresa-Pupa, Oba Moses Olayiwola JP, Ajiboye III and many other traditional rulers too numerous to list.

I must not fail to appreciate our host communities, community leaders, the good people of Ayede and its environs for their hospitality, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence since the establishment of the Polytechnic. A whole lot of people paid very pivotal role in the progress and development of our Polytechnic. We have strengthened our relationship with the Oyo State Government as led by His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

On this, we must appreciate the effort of His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, the Onpetu of Ijeru in facilitating our meeting with the Governor. Just last week, the Chairman of Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area, Hon. Seun Ojo, also promised to bear our message of infrastructure needs to Governor Makinde. We thank Mr. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Dr. Tajudeen Abbas (GCON) for his support. I also salute the Executive Chairman, Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), Drr. Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, for his huge support. In fact, one of our biggest challenges remains access roads to our Permanent Site. Today, I proudly tell this gathering that the road from Idi-Araba is now under construction as facilitated by Dr. Adedeji, an illustrious son of Iwo-Ate in Ogo-Oluwa LGA.

Importantly, Arc. Sakiru Akionla Suara, Alhaji Alimi Sarumi, Alhaji Lamidi Monsuru Ayoade Ejide, Pa Festus OLadejo Ajani, Barrister Chief Olusegun Adeyemi Adekunle (OON), Senator Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun, among others, are hugely commended. Your names have, indeed, been written in gold as far as this institution is concernedThese development-oriented individuals have donated projects to us and we remain grateful for their supports. We cannot forget the unwavering commitment of the Ogbomosoland Consultative Council (OCC), Ogbomoso First Community Initiative (O’First Group), Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, among others. Established on January 19, 2021, Federal Polytechnic Ayede is distinguished by outstanding attainments across different areas. Such attainments represent milestones in diverse fields throughout its shortest journey. The Polytechnic commenced academic activities in 2023 with the NBTE approval for four (4) National Diploma programmes in Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology, and Statistics.

Between December 27 and December 30, 2023, the Institution invited the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) for Resource Verification of nine National Diploma (ND) programmes that were not granted in the first instance. Interestingly, we secured the NBTE’s approval for eight (8) out of nine. We later secured approval to commence ND in Office Technology and Management. The Polytechnic now offers National 13 ND programmes in Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology, Statistics, Agricultural Technology, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology, Urban and Regional Planning, Estate Management and Valuation, Tourism Management Technology, Office Technology and Management, Business Administration and Management, Accountancy, and Public Administration.Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, the journey of Federal Polytechnic Ayede has been one of determination and steady progress. From its inception, the institution was conceived to serve as a centre of excellence for technical, vocational, and entrepreneurial education, with emphasis on innovation, self-reliance, and national development. As an institution, we have held on to this determination and by the grace of Almighty ALLAH, we are making tremendous progress. Federal Polytechnic Ayede is more than just a place of learning; it is a community dedicated to nurturing talents, fostering innovation, and promoting a culture of integrity. We pride ourselves on providing a dynamic and inclusive environment where every student can thrive and realize their full potential. I humbly say that Federal Polytechnic Ayede, indeed, stands out with our skills acquisition and entrepreneurship programmes championed by the Institution’s Centre for Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (CSAED). It will interest you to know that all our graduands are graduating with National Diploma in their fields of studies and at least two other certificates in their chosen vocations.

Our robust trainings, together with the certificates will make them employers of labour, and not just job seekers, creating jobs and wealth for themselves and others.Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it will interest you to know that among the six Polytechnics established by the previous administration, Ayede stands out. We are taking the lead in many areas and we have been commended by our regulatory bodies. Resolve to Relocate to Permanent SiteSince we commenced operation at our Temporary Site in Iresa-Pupa, Surulere Local Government Area, we have been striving to ensure that our relocation to the Permanent Site comes quickly.

As you can see around, we have put edifices here but we have not been able to use the facilities due to poor access roads. Now, I want to tell the world that there is no better time to move to the Permanent Site here than now. Interestingly, we remain committed to that and as we have staged the Convocation events here, we have come to stay in Ayede. We have fully prepared for this. To ease the movement, we have met with critical stakeholders (Chairman of the Council Area and Traditional Rulers led by the Alajaawa of Ajaawa) and particularly the Ayede Community.

Convocation Lecture:
At our maiden convocation lecture yesterday, the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Dr. Zacch. Adelabu Adedeji, did justice to the theme “The Role of Technology in Implementing Nigeria’s New Tax Laws: Challenges, Prospects, and Implications for National Development” under the chairmanship of Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, GCON, Speaker, House of Representatives. The effort of the duo are not, in any way, taken for granted. We, indeed, gather here today to celebrate the achievements of our graduands and acknowledge the hard work, dedication and perseverance that aided their academic journey so far. Today, we honour our graduands’ academic excellence, leadership and commitment.

On behalf of the Governing Council, ably led by Honourable Yakubu Dati (fnipr), Academic Board, Management, Staff and Students of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, I bring heartfelt felicitations to the graduands, their families, and also to the Institution for training, molding, nurturing and developing the celebrants of today as solutions providers in the country.Academic ProgrammesFederal Polytechnic Ayede currently runs 13 National Diploma (ND) programmes in five Schools: Agricultural Technology, Engineering Technology, Environmental Technology, Management Sciences, as well as Science and Technology. The Departments, ladies and gentlemen, are Agricultural Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technology, Urban and Regional Planning, Estate Management and Valuation, Accountancy, Business Administration and Management, Public Administration, Office Technology and Management, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology, Statistics, Tourism Management Technology, including General Studies, a service Department.

The GraduandsToday, we are graduating a grand total number of 325 graduands for the combination of 2023/2024 and 2024/2025 sessions. For the 2023/2024 session, we have a total of 138 graduands from Departments of Computer Engineering Technology, Computer Science, Science Laboratory Technology and Statistics. Out of this figure for the session; 29 graduands are in the Distinction category; 49 are in Upper Credit; 52 make Lower Credit and 8 of them are in the Pass category. For the 2024/2025, our graduands cover 13 Academic Departments and we have a total of 187 of them. Out of this figure, 43 graduands are in the Distinction category; 66 make Upper Credit; 67 graduate with Lower Credit while 11 are in the Pass category.I am delighted to inform you that Miss Taiwo Ibukunoluwa Arinola who is graduating with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.96 from the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, School of Science and Technology is the Overall Best Graduating Student for the 2023/2024 Academic Session.

Similarly, Mr. Olapese Quadri Ayofe who is graduating with a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 3.96 from the Department of Agricultural Technology, School of Agricultural Technology is the Overall Best Graduating Student for the 2024/2025 Academic Session. I am highly elated to congratulate the parents, guardians and families who have severally supported and encouraged these outstanding giants and for guiding them to have so been found worthy both in character and learning. To all our graduadands, Federal Polyechnic Ayede has nurtured you into greatness through the knowledge and the skills you have acquired here. I charge you, therefore, to be good ambassadors of Federal Polytechnic Ayede wherever you go henceforth.

I beseech you, our dear graduands, to always remember to give back to this citadel of learning that has refined you for greatness. Our graduands are, indeed, lucky to have passed through this institution, graduating with National Diplomas and other certificates in skills development. Dear graduands, as you stand to celebrate this achievement, remember that your journey had just begun. Let me sound it that the world needs your unique knowledge, skills and innovation.

So, on behalf of our Governing Council and Academic Board, I, once again, congratulate the graduands, their parent parents and guardians, their families, and well-wishers. I must also also congratulate the entire Polytechnic Community on this milestone.

Fellowship Awards: Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, we immensely appreciate the role of all our donors of projects both in our Temporary and Permanent Sites. However, the following eminent Nigerians have been selected for our Fellowship Awards at today’s event: Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas GCON, Speaker of the House of Representatives; Dr. Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, Executive Chairman, Nigeria Revenue Service; and Engr. Dr. Abubakar Isa, Chairman/CEO of Spectrum Engineering Ltd. We found amply qualified to be so awarded because of their contributions not only to the education sector bus also to humanity at large.

Achievements:
Distinguished Chairman and dignitaries here present, since its establishment in 2021, Federal Polytechnic Ayede has pursued deliberate, measurable development anchored on infrastructure, research, staff capacity, and partnerships. Within a short period, the Polytechnic has successfully executed sixty-eight (68) major infrastructural, utility, ICT, and equipment projects across its Permanent Campus in Ayede and Temporary Campus at Iresa-Pupa.

These projects were funded through a combination of Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) Annual, Zonal, ICT, Take-Off and Special High-Impact Interventions, Federal Government Capital Appropriations, support from Federal Ministries, institutional consult initiatives, and philanthropic donations.At the Permanent Site, completed TETFund- and Capital-funded projects include the Main Administrative Building, Twin Departmental Building, Health Centre, Gate Houses, Urban and Regional Planning Building, ICT Centre, Mechanical Workshop, Mini Library, boreholes, 11KVA Power Infrastructure, internal roads, Six Utility Vehicles, classrooms, staff offices, and support facilities. Major ongoing projects include the Main Library, Multi-Skills Acquisition Centre, Electrical/Electronics Engineering Building, Electrical/Electronics Laboratories, 33KVA power installation, supply of electrical laboratory equipment, and an ambulance, largely funded by TETFund Annual and Special High-Impact Projects.Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, at the Temporary Site, we have delivered projects such as a 230-capacity auditorium (TETFund), administrative buildings and road infrastructure (Federal Ministry of Works), office complexes (Polytechnic Consults), renovation of Science Laboratory Technology laboratories, Career Service Centre, public conveniences, boreholes, solar installations, and extensive ICT and digitalisation upgrades, funded through TETFund, Capital Appropriation, Overhead votes, and special interventions.In addition, the Polytechnic has benefitted from notable donor-supported projects, including the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria FRIN) Building donated by Professor Adesola Adepoju, lecture halls donated by Alhaji Lamidi Monsur Ayoade Ejide, Pa Festus OLadejo Ajani and Alhaji Alimi Sarumi, office equipment donated by the Ogbomosoland Consultative Council, 2-year rent free Staff Quarters donated by Senator Hamzat Ayoade Adeseun and a ₦1 million cash donation by the Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, used for the renovation of the Adeseun ICT Centre, now deployed for Polytechnic academic use.

These donations underscore strong community ownership and stakeholder confidence in the institution.Beyond infrastructure, the Polytechnic has recorded strong performance in research and innovation. To date, over sixty-four (64) Institution-Based Research (IBR) projects have been successfully carried out across disciplines, alongside nine (9) completed TETFund-funded fabrication projects, including machines for agriculture, construction, food processing, electronics, and digital manufacturing.

These outputs reinforce the Polytechnic’s applied research mandate and industry relevance.Staff capacity development has equally been prioritised. Currently, fifteen (15) academic staff have benefitted from TETFund PhD and MSc scholarships in Nigerian universities, while over one hundred and ninety (190) staff members have benefitted from local and international conferences, workshops, and specialised professional trainings across Nigeria, Africa, Europe, Asia, and the United Kingdom.
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This sustained investment in human capital has strengthened teaching quality, research output, administrative efficiency, and institutional resilience.In recognition of the importance of structured engagement and industrial harmony, the Rector also inaugurated two staff unions on campus, namely the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), thereby entrenching orderly representation, dialogue, and institutional stability.In the area of sports and student development, the Polytechnic has steadily built a culture of participation and excellence.

The institution recorded podium finishes at the 21st Nigerian Polytechnic Senior Staff Games (NIPOSSGA), successfully organised the Maiden and Second Editions of the Rector’s Cup Football Competition, created a temporary sports field for regular training and competitions, and made its first official appearance at the Nigerian Polytechnic Games (NIPOGA) on observer status.

These achievements reflect our commitment to holistic education that promotes teamwork, discipline, physical fitness, and community engagement alongside academic pursuits.Taken together, these achievements reflect prudent utilisation of public funds, effective engagement with funding agencies and donors, and a clear institutional vision. They provide a solid physical, intellectual, and human foundation upon which Federal Polytechnic Ayede will continue to grow, innovate, and serve national development in the years ahead.Areas of Needs.

The sustainable growth and long-term success of Federal Polytechnic Ayede depend largely on the collective support of key stakeholders and government at all levels. One of the pressing needs of the institution is the urgent construction of access roads linking the Polytechnic from Idi Araba (under construction), Oolo and Odo Oba.

These roads will serve as vital lifeline for students, staff, visitors, and host communities. Construction of such roads will not only ease the transportation but also enhance security, encourage investment and foster stronger town-gown relationships. Equally crucial is the issue of adequate and affordable accommodation for staff and students.

Purpose built-hostels and private-public partnership initiatives in student housing will go a long way in promoting academic focus, welfare, and discipline while also stimulating local economic activities. Beyond roads and accommodation, there is a compelling need for the provision of other essential amenities such as potable water, stable electricity, healthcare facilities, digital infrastructure, and recreational spaces. Investment in these critical areas, through government at all levels, will strengthen the Polytechnic’s capacity to deliver quality technical and vocational education, in line with national development goals.

We, therefore, call on the Federal Government, Oyo State Government, Local Government Areas in Ogbomoso zone and beyond, relevant agencies, traditional institutions, and well-meaning stakeholders to join hands in supporting Federal Polytechnic Ayede. Provision of such infrastructure will yield lasting benefits for the institution and the surrounding communities.

We are very appreciative of the various interventions and supports received from well-meaning individuals and corporate organisations. But like Oliver Twist, I beseech them all to continue in the spirit in order to move the Polytechnic forward. Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, our appeal goes to the local, state, national and international communities, as well as groups and philanthropists to come to our aid on infrastructure development like good road networks in our Permanent Site and other basic amenities, recognising that the governments cannot do it alone. Just as we have so decided to move to our Permanent Site here in Ayede, the movement has, indeed, allayed the fear that the Polytechnic had been hijacked from Ogo-Oluwa Local Government Area.

We would have moved down here long before now. But we were handicapped by some factors: access roads to the institution, electricity, accommodation for staff and students, and other basic amenities in the Ayede community. We have sought supports of many sons and daughters of Ogbomosoland on infrastructure generally. Therefore, I am soliciting the supports of our Fellowship Awardees to always come to our aid in meeting our diverse needs.

Sirs, I beseech you kindly see Federal Polytechnic Ayede as your project which must always occupy top position among the comity of higher institutions in Nigeria and beyond. It is on this note that sincerely thank everybody who has been part of this event. God bless you all.

(Signed:Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed, FNSE, FIMC, FNIEE, FIPMD, IIONPioneer Rector, Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State.)

About Flowerbudnews
Established by Hon. Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers.

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Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght. The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

March 14, 2026