Flowerbud News

Author: Felix Ajide

  • Olarinoye Urges Kwara United To Win President Federation Cup For Performing Gov AbdulRazaq, Kwarans

    Dr Steve Olarinoye, former Director General Kwara State Sports Commission, has called on Kwara United FC to ensure they win the 2025 President Federation Trophy for the progressive and sports loving Kwara Governor Abdulrahaman AbdulRazaq for his impressive stride in sports infrastructures development in the state.

    Dr Olarinoye, also Former Executive Secretary Professional Football League, former Head of International Competitions NFA, made call on Saturday in a statement he signed and made available to newsmen in Ilorin on Saturday.

    The final, which is scheduled for today, Saturday, June 28, 2025, will take place at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, where Kwara United will lockhorn with the Spirited Boys of Abakaliki in what promises to be a historic contest.

    Aacording to him, apart from the former Governor George Innih, who initiated the building of the stadium, Governor Abdulrahaman stands out as the major developer of sports infrastructures in the history of sports development in our dear state.

    “So, to crown his efforts, Kwara united FC and Kwarans generally should go all out win this year’s trophy for the Governor.

    Olarinoye, also Former Secretary Referees appointment committee NFA, NFF accredited match commissioner, commended the players, coaching staff, management, and supporters for their collective commitment, determination, handwork and drive, in reaching the final.

    “I have no doubt in my mind that this is a task that must be accomplished to bring honour to the performing governor and the good people of the state.”

    The seasoned sport administrator wished Kwara United the best of luck in the final, expressing optimism that the coveted trophy will come to Kwara in return for the team’s efforts and the spirit of Kwara.

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  • Youth Confab 2025: Committee begins nationwide campaign, urges youth to register

    By Ibironke Ariyo

    The Contacts and Mobilisation Sub-Committee of the Youth Confab 2025 has launched a national awareness and mobilisation campaign to encourage youth to register for participation in the upcoming conference.

    This follows the official unveiling of the Youth Confab 2025 registration portal by the Minister of Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande.

    A statement by the Chairman of the sub-committee, Chief Obinna Nwaka on Thursday in Abuja stated that the registration window was set to close on June 30.

    Nwaka, who currently serves as the Director General, Committee of Youth on Mobilisation and Sensitisation (CYMS), said that the team was deploying a range of strategic outreach initiatives.

    He said that the move aimed at boosting youth participation nationwide with special emphasis on increased representation of women from the Northern region to help achieve the Confab’s 50/50 gender inclusion target.

    He emphasised the critical role youth participation played in shaping policies and development agendas.

    “This Confab is a platform for young Nigerians to connect, contribute, and present their needs, challenges, and aspirations.

    “We are calling on all Nigerian youth to take advantage of this opportunity offered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make their voices heard,” he said.

    The CYMS DG added that the central objective of the awareness drive was to reawaken civic consciousness among young people.

    This, he said, was to ensure that no demographic, especially women, persons with disabilities (PWD), and marginalised groups were left behind in this national dialogue.

    According to him, several thematic areas such as Education, Governance, Agriculture, Technology etc have been outlined to guide participants in shaping their contributions at the Confab.

    “These themes are designed to reflect the most pressing concerns facing young Nigerians today, ranging from education and employment to innovation, security, health, and inclusion,” he said.

    Nwaka said that the sub-committee was the final group established by the Central Planning Committee led by Mr Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

    He added that the committee has been tasked with ensuring comprehensive and inclusive participation across the country, from grassroots federal constituencies to the national level.

    “The Committee is urging stakeholders across public and private sectors, as well as civil society organisations, to support the mobilisation effort.

    “They should also ensure the success of what is being described as a historic opportunity for national youth engagement.

    “The Youth Confab 2025 is expected to bring together thousands of young Nigerians from diverse backgrounds to engage in meaningful dialogue, shape policy recommendations, and contribute to the country’s development roadmap.

    “To register as a delegate, interested participants can access the portal through the website www.nationalyouthconfab.gov.ng before the deadline on Monday, June 30, 2025,”he said.
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  • Stakeholders seek law to tackle marine debris

    Lagos – Stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime sector have called for legislation to end marine debris and protect the country’s oceans for future generations.

     

    The call was made during the 2025 annual summit of the Shipping Correspondents Association of Nigeria (SCAN), held in Lagos on Thursday.

     

    They noted that marine debris hampers navigational safety, disrupts port operations, pollutes coastlines, and poses risks to tourism, coastal livelihoods, and public health.

     

    Guest Speaker, Capt. Tajudeen Alao, President of the Nigerian Association of Master Mariners, decried the takeover of potential tourist sites by debris.

     

    Alao warned that the unchecked spread of marine debris was damaging Nigeria’s competitiveness in the maritime sector.

     

    Represented by his Second Vice-President, Capt. Jide Olugunwa, Alao called for legislation supported by the National Assembly.

     

    He further suggested a fine of five million naira for those caught dumping waste illegally into Nigerian waters.

     

    Alao said the summit’s theme, ‘Marine Debris: The Danger Ahead’, underscored the urgency of the crisis facing marine ecosystems and coastal communities.

     

    “The growing scale of marine debris is a socioeconomic threat, endangering the maritime industry and the livelihoods of coastal communities,” he said.

     

    Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho, said marine debris endangers biodiversity, affecting fish, marine mammals, and seabirds through entanglement and ingestion.

     

    Dantsoho, represented by Capt. Femi Oyewole, said NPA was committed to global and national actions against marine litter to protect marine ecosystems.

     

    He said that marine pollution was not a future threat, but a growing and urgent issue that must be tackled immediately.

     

    “NPA has adopted proactive steps, including operating port reception facilities at all major ports across Nigeria,” he said.

     

    He added that these facilities comply with the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78).

     

    “Specifically, Annex V deals with waste disposal from ships visiting the Ports Authority’s four pilotage districts.

    “These facilities handle vessel waste securely and sustainably, including plastics, food waste, hazardous residues, sludges, and bilge water.

     

    “This helps discourage illegal disposal and ensures that all waste is managed in line with national and international standards,” he said.

     

    Dantsoho also said NPA conducts regular clean-up of marine litter and seaweed around port channels and quay areas.

     

    He noted that removing debris and packaging materials will help to protect marine life and improve drainage and vessel movement.

     

    He said such clean-ups ensured uninterrupted navigation and operations within port environments and shipping channels.

     

    Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Pius Akutah, called for urgent clearance of inland waterways for smooth vessel movement.

     

    Akutah, represented by Mr Adeshina Sarumi, Deputy Director, Monitoring and Enforcement, said debris and wrecks hinder water transport efficiency.

     

    Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Mr Bolaji Oyebamiji, urged stakeholders to join efforts in tackling marine debris.

     

    He also stressed the need for more education within coastal communities about the dangers of marine pollution.

     

    Oyebamiji said marine waste was a global issue, not limited to Nigeria alone.

     

    He was represented by NIWA’s Assistant General Manager, Mrs Aisha Eri, who noted that a marine litter action plan was already in place.

     

    She added that the plan involves multiple stakeholders and emphasises shared responsibility in addressing the challenge.

     

    NIWA and other agencies are making efforts, she said, but need coastal residents to stop polluting waterways.

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  • NDLEA seizes 14 containers of illicit substances in 1 year

    NDLEA seizes 14 containers of illicit substances in 1 year

     

    Caption: From second left, Strategic Commander, Apapa Command of the NDLEA, Buba Wakawa and the Strategic Commander, Tincan Island Port, Callys Alumona, during the grand finale of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Lagos on Thursday

     

    Lagos – National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Apapa Command, said it had seized 14 containers with different types of psychotropic drugs in the last one year, breaking the distribution cycle of illicit drugs.

    The Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, Buba Wakawa (ACGN), made this known during the joint grand finale by Apapa and Tin-Can Strategic Seaport Commands of NDLEA.

    The programme was in commemoration of the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention. Break the Cycle”.

    Every June 26 is set aside by the United Nations to create awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking and its rippling effects on the health, economy, and security of society.

    Wakawa said notable among the drugs seized were 744,635 bottles of codeine-based syrups and 36,652,460 tablets of Tramadol with a gross weight of 131,920.7 kg.

    The commander said that the cycle could be broken and together, they could make it happen.

    He said that the agency had one common enemy, the drug dealers and peddlers who were ever ready to break the law for wealth, create the monster of insecurity, and jeopardise the entire health of the nation.

    “Let me state, we are not unmindful that the maritime sector is a major global source of wealth and revenue generation for every nation, as well as a veritable means of bulky transportation of goods and services.

    “However, we must secure the process from unscrupulous elements taking control and turning it into a safe haven for illicit drug business.

    “Painfully, psychotropic substances of abuse such as Tramadol and cough syrups with codeine that were medically produced to treat and remedy health issues have been turned into recreational drugs.

    “This was to get high, enhance performance, and social pleasure without medical reason. We will not tolerate this in the maritime corridors,” he said.

    Wakawa said that the 2018 UN Drugs Survey estimated that 14.3 million Nigerians between the ages of 15 to 64 had used drugs in the preceding years.

    He said the theme for the year was, therefore, apt as it was also consistent with its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), a novel idea and brainchild of its visionary leader, the Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa.

    In his view, Dr Omotayo Ajirotutu, Medical Psychologist, Federal Psychiatrist Yaba, said an average private treatment of government hospitals costs between N800,000 to N1.5 million per month to treat patients affected with drug abuse.

    Ajirotutu lamented that the cost of treating patients was expensive, thereby calling on every parent to be observant, monitor, and relate with their children and know what they were doing and the friends they keep.

    The psychologist said that it starts from home because parents were supposed to teach moral values while teachers were supposed to teach subjects.

    He, therefore, called for collaborative efforts by the law enforcement agencies, the churches, mosques, and NGOs, to reach out to the communities, constituencies, and wards because these damages were much.

    Also, Mr Callys Alumona, Tin Can Island Strategy Port, said the command has been able to break the supply chain, adding that between June 2024 to date, the command had mopped up over 30 tonnes of illicit drugs, which include Tramadol and cocaine.

    Alumona said that the command had worked with the British Border Force and international agencies to get intelligence because without this, it could not know what was going on.

    He said some of these ships transcend from several countries to bring in these illicit substances into the country’s shores.

    Alumona noted that the command would continue to mop it up before it gets to the shores of Nigeria.

    In his goodwill message, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller, Babatunde Olomu, who was represented by Deputy Comptroller Administration, HA Eromobor, said the service would not relent on its efforts in ensuring zero tolerance for smuggling of illicit substances.

    Eromobor urged Nigerians to support the government in the fight against illicit drugs to discourage the economic saboteurs from illegal operations.

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  • Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi Rallies Support for Kwara United Ahead of Federation Cup Final

     

     

    As Kwara United Football Club prepares for the highly anticipated 2025 Federation Cup final, renowned entrepreneur and community champion, Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, has extended a heartfelt message of support to the team, encouraging all Kwarans to rally behind their own.

    The final, which is scheduled for Saturday, June 28, 2025, will take place at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, where Kwara United will face off against the Spirited Boys of Abakaliki in what promises to be a historic showdown.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Alabi applauded Kwara United for their remarkable journey to the final, describing their campaign as a testament to discipline, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the state.

    “Kwara United has brought pride to all of us, not just through their victories, but through the unity, grit, and sportsmanship they’ve displayed throughout the tournament,” he noted.

    He commended the players, coaching staff, management, and supporters for their collective commitment and drive, emphasising that the team’s performance mirrors the strength, determination, and values of the Kwara people.

    Dr. Alabi also highlighted the unifying power of football, noting its vital role in promoting youth development, social harmony, and a shared sense of identity across the state.

    “This moment goes beyond football. It speaks to our dreams as a people, our resilience, hope, and belief in collective success. I urge every Kwaran, both at home and in the diaspora, to stand firmly behind our team. Let our voices rise in support,” he urged.

    He concluded by wishing Kwara United the best of luck in the final, expressing optimism that the coveted trophy will return home in celebration of the team’s efforts and the spirit of Kwara.

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  • Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi Felicitates Muslims on Islamic New Year 1447 AH

     

     

    Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, a renowned public affairs advocate and President of the Igbaja Progressive Union National Executive Council (IPUNEC), has extended warm greetings to Muslims in Kwara State and across Nigeria on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, 1447 AH.

    In a personally signed statement, Dr. Alabi congratulated the Muslim Ummah for witnessing the start of the new Hijrah year, describing it as a significant period for spiritual renewal, self-reflection, and reaffirmation of core values such as peace, sacrifice, and service to humanity—hallmarks of the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

    “Hijrah is more than a historical event; it is a timeless reminder of the virtues of faith, resilience, and steadfastness in the face of trials,” he said.

    He urged Nigerians, particularly leaders at all levels, to draw inspiration from the spirit of the Hijrah by fostering justice, equity, and compassion in their communities. Dr. Alabi also emphasised the importance of unity, mutual respect, and collective effort in building a stronger and more inclusive nation.

    “As we usher in 1447 AH, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of a just society, deepen our prayers for peace, and remain hopeful that through our collective actions, a better Nigeria is possible,” he added.

    Dr. Alabi concluded by wishing the Muslim community a peaceful, prosperous, and spiritually fulfilling new year.

    He also offered prayers for continued divine guidance for the nation and the well-being of all its citizens.

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  • IPUNEC President Condoles Kwara Over Senator Adebayo’s Death, Describes Him as Iconic Leader

     

    Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, a respected public affairs champion and President of the Igbaja Progressive Union National Executive Council (IPUNEC), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Senator Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a former governor of Kwara State and elder statesman.

    In a condolence message, Dr. Alabi commiserated with the Adebayo family, the Igbaja community, and the entire people of Kwara State, describing the late leader as “an icon of integrity, vision, and selfless service whose life made a lasting impact on our state and nation.”

    Senator Adebayo passed away in the early hours of Wednesday in Abuja at the age of 84. Born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, he served as Governor of Kwara State in 1983 and later as a senator. He was also appointed Minister of Communications during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

    Dr. Alabi described Adebayo as a beacon of leadership and dignity, noting that he exemplified the values of honesty, courage, and service to humanity throughout his public life.

    “Senator Adebayo’s legacy as a principled and visionary leader will remain indelible in the hearts of all Kwarans and Nigerians who value justice and good governance,” she said.

    He urged today’s leaders to draw inspiration from his exemplary life and commitment to the development of society.

    While offering prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul, Dr. Alabi prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and the Igbaja community. “May the Lord grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss, and may his legacy continue to guide our path,” she added.

    The passing of Senator Adebayo marks the end of a significant chapter in the political and developmental history of Kwara State.

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  • Ex-Kwara Gov., Communications Minister, Cornelius Adebayo Dies at 84

    Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    Former governor of Kwara State and one-time minister of communications, Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, is dead.

    He died at the age of 84.

    He passed away early Wednesday morning in Abuja, according to information from his family.

    Adebayo, who was born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Kwara State, served as governor of the state in 1983.

    Before then, he was elected as a senator in 1979 under the Unity Party of Nigeria.

    Cornelius Adebayo, between 1975 and 1978, was commissioner for education in Kwara and was known for pushing reforms in the sector.

    In the 1990s, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group of activists who opposed military rule and fought to reclaim the mandate believed to have been given to MKO Abiola in the annulled 1993 presidential election.

    That same year, Adebayo rejected an offer to serve as a minister under General Sani Abacha.

    In 1995, a bomb blast in Ilorin led to his arrest alongside other NADECO members.

    The following year, he fled to Canada for a short exile when reports said the military was once again targeting him.

    Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a distinguished figure in Nigerian politics and governance, has navigated various roles throughout his career, leaving a profound impact on education, telecommunications, and infrastructure development in the country.

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  • Customs intercept 13.6kg dry donkey skin worth N3.6bn in Owerri

    Caption: The Customs Area Controller in charge of FOU Zone C, Abdullahi Balogun

     

    Lagos – The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone C in Owerri, has intercepted 13.6 kilograms of dry donkey skin worth N3.6 billion in Owerri, Imo State.

    It stated that the dry animal skins were warehoused in a 40ft container and were billed for export.

    The Customs Area Controller in charge of FOU Zone C, Abdullahi Balogun, said this in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos on Tuesday.

    Balogun added that the prohibited item, which is classified as dried salted donkey skin, was uncovered by eagle-eyed officers following a comprehensive examination of the container.

    He explained that dry donkey skin is a product listed under the Export Prohibition List by the Federal Government due to its implications on biodiversity, environmental balance, and the illegal trade in endangered species.

    “Upon examination, it was discovered that the items were packed in 10 pieces per sack and nine pieces per sack, totaling 3,022 pieces. Each dry salted donkey skin has an average weight of 4.5 kilograms, giving a total weight of 13,599 kilograms.

    Caption: Truck intercepted by Custom with 13.6 kg of dry donkey skin worth N3.6bn

     

    “A 40-ft containerised donkey skin billed for illegal export and worth N3.6 billion has been intercepted by vigilant officers of the Federal Operations Unit Zone C in Owerri.

    “Further investigations revealed the global price of dry salted donkey skin stands at $750 and a unit price of $166.6 per kilogram,” Balogun said.

    The controller commended the dedication and professionalism of the operatives involved in the seizure.

    Balogun emphasised that the leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, remains fully committed to enforcing government trade policies and combating the smuggling of prohibited and endangered goods.

    He warned individuals and syndicates involved in the illegal trade of wildlife and restricted items to desist from the act.

    He stressed that the service would continue intensifying surveillance, intelligence gathering, and strategic enforcement operations across all zones.

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