Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Stop cursing leaders, pray for Nigeria – Clerics urge Nigerians

    Stop cursing leaders, pray for Nigeria – Clerics urge Nigerians

    Stop cursing leaders, pray for Nigeria – Clerics urge Nigerians

     

    By Adewale Owoade.

     

    Clerics have called on Nigerians to desist from cursing or speaking negatively about their leaders, urging citizens instead to embrace prayers and constructive engagement as tools for national transformation.

     

    The admonition was given during a seven-day programme organised by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Oyo Province 2, themed “The Covenant Keeping God.”

     

    Speaking at the event, the ministers emphasised that while Nigerians may be dissatisfied with the state of governance, resorting to curses and negative utterances could further worsen the nation’s challenges.

     

    They noted that words carry spiritual weight and can either build or destroy, stressing that leaders, regardless of their shortcomings, require divine direction to make decisions that will positively impact the country.

     

    One of the speakers, Pastor (Mrs) Olubukola Afuye of Ekiti Province 11, urged citizens to continually pray for those in authority.

    “We should be praying for those in government. The Bible instructs us to pray for kings and those in authority. When we pray for them, they will have the people in mind and change for the better.

     

    “Instead of cursing them or speaking ill of them, we should encourage them through prayers. Whatever we give in prayers will come back to us. It shall be well, and we will eat the fruits of the land,” she said.

     

    The cleric also encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast in faith, noting that God remains faithful to his promises and is able to turn difficult situations around for good.

     

    Samuel Adeyemo, Pastor-in-Charge of RCCG Oyo Province 2, also said  that God remains ever faithful.

    “The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is still the same today. He keeps His covenant. He said, ‘Call on me and I will answer you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened.’

     

    “If God has made such promises, then we must ask, seek and knock,” he said.

     

    Also, Olukorede Adeyemo, wife of the Pastor-in-Charge, affirmed God’s covenant-keeping nature.

    “She said” God is a covenant keeper. He has made promises to us, and He alone is able to fulfill them.

    The cleric, therefore, urged Christians to be good ambassadors of their faith by promoting peace, unity and responsible speech, especially in times of economic and social strain.

    The week-long programme featured prayers, teachings and worship sessions centred on God’s faithfulness and the importance of maintaining a covenant relationship with Him.

     

    Participants expressed renewed commitment to praying for the nation and its leaders, while also pledging to contribute positively to societal development.

    (NAN)

  • Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative

    Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative

    ‎Akande Champions Ibadan Heritage Project, Flags Off Hall of Fame Initiative
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.
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    ‎A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Dr. Debo Akande, has unveiled a plan to establish an Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame aimed at preserving the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
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    ‎Akande, who serves as the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, made the disclosure during a foundation-laying ceremony held at Bode Amoo Hall, Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo.
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    The event was organised under the auspices of the 2026 Historical Tour Committee.
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    ‎Speaking at the ceremony, Akande described the project as a forward-looking initiative designed to safeguard Ibadan’s legacy for future generations.
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    ‎“This vision has been on my mind for a long time. It is not just about the present, but about building a legacy that will endure,” he said.
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    ‎He lamented what he described as a widening gap between younger generations and the history of Ibadan, noting that many youths are increasingly unaware of the city’s contributions to Yoruba heritage and national development.
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    ‎“Ask many young people today about notable figures in Ibadan’s history, and you may get little or no response. Yet, this city has produced great men and women who have excelled in various fields both locally and internationally,” he added.
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    ‎Akande explained that the proposed Hall of Fame would serve as both a museum and a knowledge hub, documenting and showcasing the achievements of past rulers, warriors, professionals, and other distinguished indigenes.
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    ‎“This project seeks to answer critical questions: where is our history documented, and where can people learn about the exploits of our heroes? It is about preserving our identity,” he said.
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    ‎In his remarks, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief (Barr.) Sulaiman Ajewole, said the initiative was conceived to immortalise the legacies of Ibadan’s heroes and heroines.
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    ‎Ajewole noted that the idea originated from a historical subcommittee of the council and would provide a platform to honour past rulers, warriors, philanthropists, politicians, and community leaders.
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    ‎“Preserving history means documenting and celebrating those who contributed to the growth of Ibadan. This ensures their legacies are not forgotten,” he said.
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    ‎He commended Akande for championing the initiative, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Ibadanland, and expressed confidence that the project would be completed within a short time.
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    ‎Ajewole added that upon completion, the Ibadan Historical Library and Hall of Fame would stand as a major cultural landmark in the city.
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  • Oyo Opens Power Sector to Investors, Unveils New Electricity Market Framework

    Oyo Opens Power Sector to Investors, Unveils New Electricity Market Framework

    Oyo Opens Power Sector to Investors, Unveils New Electricity Market Framework.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

    ‎The Oyo State Government has commenced a major overhaul of its electricity sector, opening up the market to private investors as part of a broader strategy to improve power supply, drive economic growth, and enhance service delivery.

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    ‎The Commissioner for Energy and Natural Resources, Prof. Dawud Sangodoyin, made this known during a press conference at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan.

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    ‎He said the reform, anchored on a new regulatory framework, would allow multiple operators to participate across the electricity value chain, including generation, transmission, and distribution.

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    ‎According to him, the state has already created an enabling environment for investment by segmenting its electricity market into industrial, institutional, residential, and underserved clusters to attract targeted solutions.

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    ‎“We are deliberately opening up the electricity space to credible investors. Our framework allows them to study our electricity priority plan, conduct feasibility assessments, and deploy tailored solutions,” Sangodoyin said.

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    ‎He disclosed that more than 30 potential investors had already been engaged, with at least one showing interest in hydroelectric power generation.

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    ‎To strengthen oversight, the commissioner noted that the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission had been empowered as the primary authority to license operators and regulate activities within the sector.

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    ‎“There is now a functional local regulator responsible for licensing, tariffs, and service delivery. Any operator in the electricity space within the state must comply with the commission’s guidelines,” he said.

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    ‎He added that the commission had introduced a complaint resolution mechanism, promising to address issues raised by residents and businesses within 72 hours.

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    ‎Despite the focus on market liberalisation, Sangodoyin acknowledged the significant gap in electricity supply, revealing that the state currently generates between 151 and 182 megawatts, far below the estimated 520 megawatts required for optimal performance.

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    ‎To address this, he said the government had initiated short- and medium-term interventions, including a 12-megawatt independent gas-powered project expected to come on stream within two months.

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    ‎He explained that the project would increase available capacity to about 194 megawatts in the short term, while longer-term plans aim to raise supply to nearly 300 megawatts by 2027.

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    ‎As part of infrastructure improvements, the independent power project will prioritise electricity supply to critical government facilities in Ibadan, including the State Secretariat, Government House, and the judiciary, as well as street lighting networks.

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    ‎“We are starting with critical infrastructure to improve efficiency in governance, while also exploring ways to extend benefits to surrounding communities through energy audits,” he said.

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    ‎Sangodoyin further disclosed that the state had begun integrating renewable energy into its mix, with pilot solar-powered street lighting projects already showing promising results.

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    ‎On policy alignment, he assured that the state’s electricity reforms were consistent with existing national laws, including the Electricity Act and the Petroleum Industry Act.

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    ‎“We are working in harmony with federal regulations to ensure that our reforms deliver mutual benefits without conflict,” he said.

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    ‎The commissioner also emphasised the need to avoid monopolies in the sector, noting that competition among multiple operators would lead to improved service delivery and more competitive pricing.

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    ‎“Encouraging competition is key. It ensures efficiency, innovation, and better outcomes for consumers,” he added.

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    ‎While acknowledging transitional challenges, particularly with existing distribution companies, Sangodoyin expressed optimism that ongoing stakeholder engagements would ensure a smooth reform process.

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    ‎He reiterated the government’s commitment to building a sustainable electricity market that supports businesses, reduces operational costs, and improves the quality of life for residents.

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  • Security Operatives Foil Disruption of OYRLEA Crackdown on Illegal Trading

    Security Operatives Foil Disruption of OYRLEA Crackdown on Illegal Trading

     

    Security Operatives Foil Disruption of OYRLEA Crackdown on Illegal Trading

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and safeguarding public spaces following a successful enforcement operation against illegal street trading across key locations in Ibadan.

     

    The operation, conducted on Tuesday, covered Gate, Molete and Challenge areas. It was led by the Chairman of the State Environmental Task Force, retired DCP Francis Ojomo, alongside the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode, Esq., with support from enforcement officers, the Nigeria Police Force and the Oyo State Amotekun Corps.

     

    During the exercise at Challenge, enforcement officers encountered resistance from suspected miscreants who attempted to obstruct lawful duties and incite disorder. Security operatives providing cover swiftly intervened, dispersing the crowd and restoring calm without any reported casualties.

     

    The prompt response prevented a potential escalation and ensured the smooth continuation of the enforcement exercise.

     

    Four individuals were subsequently arraigned in court on charges bordering on obstruction of law enforcement officers and violation of environmental regulations.

     

    In a related development, enforcement officers impounded five cows being herded along the Molete expressway in violation of the state’s open grazing regulations.

     

    The Authority reiterated that enforcement of the ban on illegal street trading and open grazing remains lawful, continuous and non-negotiable. It warned that any attempt to interfere with officers carrying out their duties constitutes a criminal offence and will be prosecuted accordingly.

     

    Traders occupying unauthorised roadways and public corridors have been directed to vacate such locations immediately, while herders have been advised to keep livestock off major roads and expressways.

     

    The Authority further warned that individuals or groups who incite, obstruct, or attempt to hijack enforcement operations pose a threat to public safety and will face arrest and prosecution.

     

    OYRLEA urged residents to comply with regulations and cooperate fully with enforcement agencies in the interest of public order, safety and environmental sanitation.

  • World Oral Health Day: Oyo Strengthens Push for Quality Dental Services.

    World Oral Health Day: Oyo Strengthens Push for Quality Dental Services.

     

    World Oral Health Day: Oyo Strengthens Push for Quality Dental Services.

     

    By Adewale Owoade.

     

    The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening oral healthcare delivery through strategic collaborations aimed at improving access to quality dental services and promoting oral health awareness among residents across the state.

     

    The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated this on Tuesday during activities marking the 2026 World Oral Health Day at the Ministry’s Conference Room.

     

    She emphasised that oral health is an integral part of overall well-being and should not be treated separately from general health.

     

    Ajetunmobi commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the health sector under the Omituntun 2.0 agenda, noting that his administration continues to prioritize initiatives that improve the well-being of citizens in sustainable ways.

     

    She noted that the government has taken deliberate steps to strengthen preventive and promotive healthcare services across the state.

     

    The commissioner also appreciated the support of Aspira Nigeria Limited and other partners, adding that their collaboration has significantly enhanced the reach of oral health promotion initiatives in Oyo State.

     

    She, therefore, urged residents to take personal responsibility for their oral health and to share this important message within their homes and communities.

     

    According to her, this year’s theme, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” delivers a simple but powerful message.

    “It is time to bring oral health to the forefront of our public health agenda. We must adopt a holistic, life-course approach that integrates oral health into the broader healthcare delivery system, promotes prevention, and empowers people to make healthier choices,” she said.

     

    Ajetunmobi highlighted a key milestone in the sector, noting the integration of basic oral healthcare services into antenatal care across primary healthcare facilities.

     

    She explained that pregnant women now receive oral health education, screening, and preventive care as part of routine maternal services.

     

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, said the essence of World Oral Health Day is to raise awareness and improve universal access to oral healthcare.

     

    He noted that available data indicates that only a few people pay adequate attention to their oral health.

    Ayinde stressed that achieving improved oral health outcomes requires collective efforts, adding that the state is working towards attaining universal health coverage by 2030.

     

    In a presentation titled “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Life,” the Deputy Director of Medical Services at the Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Chisom Fajimi, emphasised the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene, noting that the mouth is a vital part of the body.

     

    She demonstrated practical tooth-brushing techniques and explained that many oral diseases can be prevented through good oral hygiene practices, reiterating that a healthy mouth contributes to a healthy life.

     

    A representative of Aspira Nigeria Limited, Mr. Subair Babajide, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting oral health awareness campaigns in the state.

     

    In their separate remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerian Dental Association, Oyo State Chapter, Dr. Adeola Akintola, alongside other dental professionals including nurses, technologists, technicians, and therapists, emphasised the need for improved oral hygiene practices.

     

    They noted that most oral health conditions are preventable and can be effectively treated when detected early.

     

    The event also featured oral health screening for staff at the State Secretariat Clinic.

  • Remi Oseni Foundation launches subsidised food scheme for vulnerable residents.

    Remi Oseni Foundation launches subsidised food scheme for vulnerable residents.

       

    Remi Oseni Foundation launches subsidised food scheme for vulnerable residents.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Residents of Ibadan and surrounding communities are set to benefit from a new intervention aimed at easing the burden of rising food prices, following the commencement of the Remi Oseni Asoludero Market Scheme.

     

    The initiative, recently launched by the Remi Oseni Foundation, is designed to provide subsidised food items to vulnerable members of the community, including widows, widowers, the elderly, persons living with disabilities, artisans, traders and other indigent individuals.

    According to the organisers, the scheme seeks to cushion the effects of economic hardship by ensuring that essential food items are accessible and affordable, regardless of beneficiaries’ tribe, religion, gender or political affiliation.

     

    The foundation noted that special consideration would be given to senior citizens aged 70 years and above, as well as persons with disabilities, who will receive priority attention and dedicated assistance during registration and purchase.

     

    Registration for the April cycle of the programme is scheduled to commence on March 30 and end on April 7, 2026, excluding weekends and public holidays.

    The organisers explained that registration is a one-time process, after which beneficiaries will not be required to register again.

     

    Subsequent registration exercises, they added, will take place at the beginning of each month for one week, while the purchase of food items will continue throughout the remaining weeks.

    To complete registration, prospective beneficiaries are required to present their National Identification Number (NIN), after which registration slips will be issued.

    The exercise will take place at the foundation’s office located on the ground floor of Aderemi Oseni House, Carpenter Bus Stop, Ologuneru, Ibadan, where participants will also make their purchases.

     

    As part of measures to ensure fairness and wider reach, the foundation stated that each registered individual would only be allowed to purchase food items once every 30 days, with a maximum limit of 5kg or 5 litres per item.

    Payment for items, it stressed, will be strictly through Point of Sale (POS) machines or bank transfers, with cash payments not permitted under any circumstance. The foundation, however, clarified that it would not be held responsible for unsuccessful transactions.

     

    The organisers also assured that adequate security arrangements would be put in place to maintain orderliness, urging participants to remain patient and cooperative throughout the process.

     

    Describing the scheme as a long-term intervention, the foundation reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the initiative as part of efforts to promote community welfare, economic relief and inclusive growth.

     

    It added that purchased items are non-refundable, non-returnable and non-transferable.

     

    Eligible residents have been encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity and follow the foundation’s communication channels for regular updates.

  • Women in Music Day: Nigerian Artistes Push for Mentorship, Funding, Safe Spaces

    Women in Music Day: Nigerian Artistes Push for Mentorship, Funding, Safe Spaces

    ‎Women in Music Day: Nigerian Artistes Push for Mentorship, Funding, Safe Spaces
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    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju
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    ‎Female musicians in Nigeria on Saturday joined their counterparts worldwide to mark the 2026 International Women in Music Day, highlighting persistent challenges and calling for greater inclusion in the industry.
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    ‎In separate interviews, the artistes said thriving in a male-dominated space requires resilience, consistency and strong support systems.
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    ‎Ashionye Ekemode, popularly known as Ashny, said female artistes often face underestimation and must work harder to prove themselves.
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    ‎“Being in a male-dominated industry comes with challenges, from being underestimated to constantly having to prove your worth,” she said.
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    ‎“I have learnt to stay focused on my craft, trust my voice and surround myself with supportive people. I believe in my music and vision, and that confidence has helped me break barriers.”
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    ‎She identified funding, rejection and moments of hopelessness as common struggles for emerging artistes.
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    ‎“To overcome these, I stayed determined and saved every penny to push my career,” she added.
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    ‎Ashny noted that women are increasingly making bold strides in the industry but stressed the need for more intentional support.
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    ‎“There is a need for mentorship, funding and platforms that deliberately uplift female talent. The industry must also create safe spaces where women feel respected and heard,” she said.
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    ‎Similarly, Funmilayo Ayedogbon, known as ÒDÈRÉ, described her journey as both challenging and empowering.
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    ‎“The music industry has long been male-dominated, meaning women often have to work twice as hard to be seen and respected,” she said.
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    ‎“I have chosen to stand confidently in my identity, letting my work speak for itself.”
    ‎She cited limited access to funding and difficulty in building the right team as early challenges.
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    ‎ÒDÈRÉ said consistency, faith and self-investment helped her overcome obstacles, adding that she created her own platform through her annual music event, “Odere Live.”
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    ‎“There is more visibility and diversity among women in music now, but gaps remain, especially in production, sound engineering and executive roles,” she said.
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    ‎She called for deliberate efforts by stakeholders to create inclusive opportunities and support young female talents early.
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    ‎Also speaking, Doyinsola Akinola, popularly known as Doyinsola, said the journey has not been easy but noted steady progress.
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    ‎“Funding and access to platforms were major challenges at the early stage, but I kept pushing,” she said.
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    ‎“Social media has created diverse opportunities for promoting music.”
    ‎She added that female participation in the industry has improved significantly.
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    ‎“We will keep encouraging one another. The sky is big enough for everyone,” she said.
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    ‎In the same vein, Oladele Olajumoke, known as Bayonle, said the challenges of the industry have motivated her to work harder and remain confident.
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    ‎“My early challenges included limited resources, lack of exposure and balancing creativity with industry expectations,” she said.
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    ‎“I overcame them by staying consistent, believing in my talent and continuously improving my sound.”
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    ‎Bayonle acknowledged increased visibility for women but stressed the need for more structured support.
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    ‎“There should be stronger support systems, mentorship and more opportunities. Creating safe spaces and promoting female talent will boost participation,” she said.
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    ‎The artistes advised aspiring female musicians to remain focused, embrace their uniqueness and persevere despite challenges.
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  • Makinde’s Govt Deepens FAO Collaboration on Food Security.Makinde’s Govt Deepens FAO Collaboration on Food Security.

    Makinde’s Govt Deepens FAO Collaboration on Food Security.Makinde’s Govt Deepens FAO Collaboration on Food Security.

    Makinde’s Govt Deepens FAO Collaboration on Food Security.

     

    By   Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) to enhance agricultural productivity and improve food security across the state.

     

    The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musbau Babatunde, gave the assurance on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde while receiving the newly appointed FAO Country Representative at the SSG Conference Room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

     

    Prof. Babatunde said the administration remains focused on leveraging strategic partnerships with international development organisations such as the FAO to drive innovation, boost productivity, and achieve sustainable rural development.

     

    He described agriculture as a key pillar of the state’s economic agenda, noting that collaboration with global bodies would support farmers with modern techniques, capacity building, and access to improved inputs.

     

    The SSG also highlighted ongoing government interventions in the sector, adding that the state is open to further technical support and knowledge exchange to strengthen value chains and promote food sufficiency.

     

    In his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said the administration has recorded significant progress in agriculture.

     

    He listed key initiatives to include the promotion of mechanised farming through a 50 per cent tractorisation subsidy, distribution of improved seedlings and farm inputs, and provision of fertilisers at subsidised rates.

     

    Other interventions, he said, include rehabilitation of rural farm roads, irrigation support programmes, and the strengthening of extension services to reach farmers at the grassroots.

     

    Olaleye added that the government has intensified efforts in livestock development, fisheries support, youth engagement in agribusiness, and the promotion of agro-processing and value addition to reduce post-harvest losses and increase farmers’ income.

     

    Also speaking, the FAO Country Representative, Hussein Gadain, commended the Oyo State Government for its proactive approach to agricultural development and expressed readiness to deepen collaboration in climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness development, and food systems transformation.

     

    Gadain highlighted FAO’s contributions to agricultural development in Nigeria, including support for smallholder farmers through capacity building, provision of climate-resilient seeds, promotion of sustainable farming practices, pest and disease control, and food systems strengthening.

     

    He added that the organisation is also supporting farmers with early warning systems, digital agricultural solutions, and resilience-building programmes aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and improving food security nationwide.

  • World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

    World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

    World Theatre Day: Industry Players Push for Revival of Nigerian Theatre.

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    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju.
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    ‎A Nollywood actor, Babatunde Ojobaro, popularly known as Mister Rain, has said Nigeria’s theatre industry is yet to reach its full potential.
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    ‎Ojobaro made this known while commemorating World Theatre Day, observed annually on March 27.
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    ‎The day celebrates theatre arts and their impact on society, highlighting the role of stage performance in storytelling, cultural expression and social change.
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    ‎According to Ojobaro, although Nigeria boasts immense talent, compelling stories and willing audiences, the sector still lacks the structures required to thrive.
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    ‎He identified key challenges as inadequate performance spaces, limited funding and weak audience development.
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    ‎“The major challenges include few functional performance spaces, poor funding and sponsorship structures, as well as weak audience development from schools and communities.
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    ‎“In addition, theatre is not yet treated as an economic sector, and many practitioners migrate to other industries or abroad.
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    ‎“In short, we have the creativity but not enough infrastructure,” he said.
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    ‎Ojobaro stressed the need for deliberate efforts to grow the sector, including the establishment of community theatre hubs, reintroduction of theatre in schools and stronger collaboration among practitioners.
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    ‎He also called for improved digital visibility and proper positioning of theatre within the creative economy.
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    ‎“These steps will strengthen the ecosystem and accelerate growth,” he added.
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    ‎The actor further urged government at all levels to play active roles by providing accessible venues, creating production grants and reviving school theatre festivals.
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    ‎“Supporting technical theatre training for youth employment and partnering with existing organisations are equally important,” he said.
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    ‎He described theatre as a powerful tool for education, employment, cultural preservation and national storytelling.
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    ‎Similarly, a 300-level Theatre Arts student at the University of Ibadan, Odama Bakari, described theatre as a dynamic and immersive art form that connects people.
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    ‎“It is the magic of the stage, where raw emotions meet action. Whether it’s fantasy or realistic drama, theatre brings stories to life.
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    ‎“It is a total art form involving script, movement and set design, all working together to build a world before an actor speaks,” he said.
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    ‎Bakari noted that in Nigeria, theatre also serves as a bridge to cultural roots, transforming oral traditions and proverbs into modern expressions.
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    ‎He added that World Theatre Day serves as a source of motivation for aspiring practitioners.
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    ‎“As a student and aspiring actor, the day validates our commitment to the craft and reminds us of its global relevance,” he said.
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    ‎While acknowledging improvements in technology and production quality, Bakari said more investment in infrastructure and creative spaces was needed.
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    ‎“We need more functional theatres across cities to reduce the burden of centralisation, especially in Lagos,” he said.
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    ‎He also emphasised the importance of strengthening links between academic institutions and the professional industry to make theatre a viable career path.
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    ‎“When students see clear pathways to paid opportunities, the quality of output will improve,” he added.
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    ‎Also speaking, a 400-level student, Awah Mfonobong, described theatre as a collaborative art that blends acting, directing, music, costumes, lighting and set design.
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    ‎She said World Theatre Day offers practitioners a rare moment of recognition.
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    ‎“Theatre is often misunderstood and underappreciated, but this day reminds us that our work matters,” she said.
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    ‎Mfonobong called on policymakers to improve funding and infrastructure to make theatre more accessible and inclusive.
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    ‎“If properly supported, theatre will not be limited to certain social classes but open to everyone,” she said.
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    ‎World Theatre Day was established in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) and first celebrated in 1962.
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