Flowerbud News

Category: General News

  • Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    Tragedy: FRSC confirms 11 persons dead  in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway accident

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of 11 persons involved in a fatal road accident on the Enugu to Port Harcourt Expressway.

    The Sector Commander of FRSC Enugu State Command, Mr Franklin Agbakoba, gave the confirmation to newsmen in Enugu on Saturday after the tragic accident that involved two vehicles..

    Agbakoba said, “The accident happened at about 6:46 p.m. today, Saturday, at a location adjacent to the FRSC Ozalla Unit Command in the expressway.”

    He said that the 11 persons that lost their lives included 10 males and one female.

    “A total of 36 persons, which included 27 males and nine female, got involved in the collision between a commercial Toyota Coaster Bus and an articulated Mercedes Benz trailer this evening in Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway.

    “Apart from those that unfortunately lost their lives due to the accident; seven persons, which included three males and four female, were injured in the accident.

    “The injured victims have been taken to the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH), Ituku-Ozalla for medical attention.

    “The dead victims were taken to the UNTH Morgue,” he said.

    The sector commander said that FRSC personnel had cleared off all obstruction on the expressway caused by the accident, adding: “we have restored free flow of vehicular traffic on the accident axis of the expressway.”

    Agbakoba added that preliminary investigations suggested Route Traffic Violation (RTV) and Loss of Control (LOC) as possible causes of the carnage.

    He appreciated officers and Marshals of FRSC Ozalla Unit Command for their swift response to the accident scene; rescue and taking the injured victims to UNTH for medical attention and clearing of obstruction.

    “Further information on the accident will be made known to the public soon,” he said.

  • OmoBarca Reaffirms Topnotch Love for Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency on Valentine’s Day

    OmoBarca Reaffirms Topnotch Love for Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency on Valentine’s Day

    OmoBarca Reaffirms Topnotch Love for Ajeromi Ifelodun Constituency on Valentine’s Day

    In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, philanthropist and community leader, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, popularly known as OmoBarca, has extended a heartfelt message of love and solidarity to the good people of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Constituency and residents across Ajeromi-Ifelodun

    In his official Valentine’s message released on Friday, Hon. Chima described the day as a celebration of compassion, unity, and selfless service. He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the growth, welfare, and sustainable development of the constituency.

    According to OmoBarca, the resilience of traders, the determination of the youth, the strength of mothers, and the wisdom of elders in Ajeromi Ifelodun continue to inspire his philanthropic drive and community engagement efforts.

    He emphasized that his love for the people remains “topnotch, sincere, and enduring,” assuring residents that their progress and wellbeing will always remain his top priority.

    The philanthropist further called for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective responsibility in building a stronger and more prosperous constituency.

    Residents and supporters have described the message as a reassurance of his continuous dedication to grassroots development and people centred service.

    Valentine’s Day, widely celebrated as a day of love and goodwill, served as an opportunity for the philanthropist to once again reaffirm his deep affection and commitment to the people he represents.

  • Tinubu appoints Amb. Ismail Yusuf as NAHCON chairman

    Tinubu appoints Amb. Ismail Yusuf as NAHCON chairman

    NAHCON
    By Muhyideen Jimoh

    Abuja, Feb. 11, 2026 (FBN) President Bola Tinubu has nominated Amb. Ismail Yusuf as the new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

    The nomination is subject to Senate confirmation, in line with Section 3(2) of the NAHCON Act, 2006.

    This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Tinubu said he had written to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, requesting the expeditious confirmation of Yusuf.

    The President said the nomination was to replace Prof. Abdullahi Usman, who resigned this week after about 14 months in office.

    Yusuf is a career diplomat and served as Nigeria’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Türkiye from 2021 to 2024.

  • Ashiru advocates ministry of religious affairs to promote harmony

    Ashiru advocates ministry of religious affairs to promote harmony

    Ashiru advocates ministry of religious affairs to promote harmony

     

    By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

     

    The Senator representing Kwara South Senatorial District, Arch. Lola Ashiru, has called for the establishment of a Ministry of Religious Affairs at the state level to promote harmony, peace and ethical values among Nigerians.

    Ashiru made the call on Saturday during a courtesy visit by the Kwara Chapter of the Executive Members of the Correspondence Chapel of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Offa where he reflected on the role of religion in society and the need for government involvement in guiding religious practice.

    According to him, the fundamental purpose of religion is to foster peace, love, equity and harmony among people, noting that religion is meant to serve humanity and not the other way round.

    “Religion is supposed to bring harmony among people. The essence of worship is not because God needs our praise, but because religion is meant to shape our values, our conduct and our relationship with one another,” he said.

    The Senator expressed concern over what he described as the monetisation and commercialisation of religion, which he said had begun to undermine its positive impact on society.

    He observed that religious activities and doctrines dominate daily life in Nigeria, with churches and mosques attracting large followings, especially on Fridays and Sundays, stressing that such influence makes it important for government to pay closer attention to religious practice.

    Ashiru said government support for religious organisations should go beyond physical assistance to include intellectual guidance and policy direction to ensure that religious teachings promote peace and development.

    “It is important for government to give direction to religious teachings so that religion can truly play its role in developing the people and promoting harmony,” he said.

    He argued that a Ministry of Religious Affairs would be more impactful than some existing institutions, including ministries overseeing chieftaincy affairs, given the central role religion plays in the lives of citizens.

    According to him, such a ministry would help regulate religious activities, encourage interfaith harmony and reduce negative practices associated with religious extremism and exploitation.

    Ashiru added that deliberate government engagement with religious leaders and institutions would contribute significantly to social stability and peaceful coexistence in the country.

  • Over 50 Kaiama attack survivors receiving treatment in Ilorin — Sen. Umar

    Over 50 Kaiama attack survivors receiving treatment in Ilorin — Sen. Umar

    Over 50 Kaiama attack survivors receiving treatment in Ilorin — Sen. Umar

     

    By Afusat Agunbiade-Oladipo

     

    Ilorin, Feb. 6, 2026 (NAN)No fewer than 50 survivors of the recent bandit attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara are currently receiving treatment in various hospitals in Ilorin.

     

    The victims reportedly sustained varying degrees of injuries, including gunshot wounds, during the attack.

     

    The Senator representing Kwara North Senatorial District, Sen. Sadiq Umar, on Friday visited the injured persons to sympathise with them and their families.

     

    Umar described the incident as heartbreaking and prayed for the speedy recovery of the victims, assuring them of his continued support throughout their period of recuperation.

     

    He commended President Bola Tinubu for the deployment of additional security personnel under Operation Savannah Shield to restore peace and ensure the arrest of the perpetrators.

     

    The lawmaker also praised Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara for what he described as swift intervention, particularly the directive to the State Emergency Management Agency to provide relief materials to the affected communities.

     

    Umar called for sustained security operations across Kwara North, noting that the senatorial district had continued to experience security challenges.

     

    He urged residents to remain united, hopeful and prayerful, while reaffirming his commitment to the safety and wellbeing of his constituents and praying for lasting peace in the area.

  • Egbewole greets Gov. AbdulRazaq @ 66

     

    The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has felicitated the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, on the occasion of his 66th birthday.

    Prof. Egbewole, In a statement issued by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, described Governor AbdulRazaq as an outstanding patriot, who deserves to be honoured and celebrated.

    The Vice Chancellor explained that Mallam AbdulRazaq has left no one in doubt about his patriotism, hardwork and exemplary leadership dispositions before and since he became Governor of Kwara State in 2019.

    Prof. Egbewole said that the Governor has been a resourceful leader whose administration in the last seven years worked for the transformation of the State.

    The Vice Chancellor, who is also the Chairman of the Consortium of Kwara Universities (KU8+), thanked the Governor for considering many alumni of the University for political and public service appointments in his administration.

    While congratulating the Governor, Prof. Egbewole prayed to Allah to continue to favour him with sound health and a more successful tenure.

     

  • Alabi Condemns Attacks on Woro, Nuku Communities, Urges Unity, Vigilance

     

    By Felix Ajide

    Dr. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi, a respected community leader and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has expressed shock and deep sadness over the recent deadly attacks on residents of Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State.

    In a statement signed by his media team, Dr. Alabi described the attacks as disheartening, particularly coming at a time when government at both state and federal levels is intensifying efforts to rid the country of hoodlums and bandits.

    He condemned the perpetrators as wicked and enemies of peace, stressing that the senseless acts should serve as a rallying call for unity and collective support for government efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and harmony in the state.

    The philanthropist urged residents of the affected communities and Kwara State at large to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report suspicious movements to help safeguard their environments.

    Dr. Alabi also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Emir of Kaiama, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Mu’azu Shehu Omar (Bagidi Kiyaru IV), the families of the victims, and all those affected by the tragic incident.

    He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Kwara State Government under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for their swift response and proactive measures to protect lives and property, as well as their determination to rid the state and the country of criminal elements.

    The APC chieftain further praised the efforts of the military, police, and other security operatives combating banditry and related crimes in Kwara North and South, assuring them of the people’s support.

    “We are with you in your efforts to combat terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening peace in our state,” he said,

    The community leader added that sustained vigilance is necessary to prevent forests and border areas from being reoccupied by criminals after they have been dislodged.

    It would be recalled that bandits attacked Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area on the evening of Monday, February 3, 2026, with the assault extending into Tuesday, February 4, 2026.

    The attacks reportedly claimed more than 20 lives, including some security personnel, while several houses and food stores were razed.

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  • A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa

    A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa

    A Legacy of Excellence: Celebrating Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa
    By Hon. Barr. Peter C. Eneje, Former Leader, Enugu State House of Assembly.
    On Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, family, friends, associates, and well-wishers gather in Abuja and Enugu respectively in gratitude to celebrate the birthday of Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa — an accomplished public servant, visionary administrator, church leader, and philanthropist.
    A leader whose life has been marked by unwavering service to God, government, and society.
    Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa’s distinguished career in public service spans decades of exemplary leadership and institutional reform.
    As a Federal Permanent Secretary in several federal ministries including Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Abuja, he brought to bear a rare combination of professionalism, accountability, and strategic thinking, contributing significantly to policy formulation, implementation and the strengthening of public institutions at the national level.
    Earlier in his career, he served with distinction as Accountant-General of Enugu State, where he played a pivotal role in entrenching fiscal discipline, transparency, and prudent financial management.
    His tenure was characterized by strong oversight of public funds, improved financial controls, and a commitment to accountability that enhanced confidence in the public finance system. Through his work, he helped lay foundations for sustainable governance and responsible stewardship of resources.
    His passion for grassroots development was further demonstrated during his service as Commissioner for Agriculture in Enugu State. In this role, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa championed agricultural productivity, rural empowerment, and food security.
    He supported initiatives aimed at boosting farmer participation, improving access to inputs, and strengthening agricultural value chains. His tenure contributed to the upliftment of rural communities and reinforced agriculture as a viable driver of economic growth within the state.
    In 2022, motivated by a deep love for Ndi (people of) Enugu and a desire to broaden his impact, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa aspired to the office of Governor of Enugu State.
    His gubernatorial primary aspiration was anchored on a clear vision of inclusive development, institutional competence, and people-centered governance, further underscoring his readiness to serve at the highest level.
    Beyond government, Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa is a man of deep faith and committed service to the church. As former Lay President of the Agbani Diocese of the Methodist Church Nigeria, he provided exemplary leadership rooted in humility, unity, and spiritual discipline, strengthening the church’s administrative and evangelical mission.
    His compassion for humanity finds expression in his role as a philanthropist, where his generosity has supported education, healthcare, community development, and the upliftment of the less privileged. Often working quietly behind the scenes, his acts of kindness have transformed lives and restored hope to many.
    Presently, as Chairman of the Governing Council of Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa continues to invest in the future. His leadership promotes academic excellence, sound governance, and institutional stability, ensuring that ESUT remains a center for innovation, learning, and human capital development.
    Arguably, in the annals of Nigeria public administration, few names resonate with as much authority, integrity, and transformative impact as that of Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa – a man known to his peers as a strategist, to Ndi Enugu as Odalije, and to the nation as a quintessential public servant.
    As he marks another year of life, we celebrate a man whose legacy is defined by integrity, service, faith, and enduring impact. May the Almighty grant Odalije Sir Chinyeaka Ohaa continued good health, wisdom, peace, and the grace to keep serving humanity with distinction.
    Happy Birthday to Odalije — a life devoted to service and excellence.
  • Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

    Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

    Stakeholders urge government to harness youth population for bio-economic growth

     

    By Olatunde Ajayi

     

    Stakeholders in agriculture and economic sectors have called on the government to harness opportunities in Nigeria’s huge youth population to boost the country’s economic diversification.

     

    The stakeholders, drawn from Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), academia, research institutions, youths, and farmers’ groups, made the submission at a two-day public-private dialogue on the implementation of the cassava bio-ethanol value chain development project.

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the workshop, organised by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Ibadan for stakeholders in the southwest geopolitical zone, aimed to discuss how to harness cassava bio-ethanol utilisation in the industry and energy sector for economic transformation.

    The Executive Secretary, Nigerian Academy of Science, Dr. Doyin Odubanjo, said that Nigeria is yet to fully utilise its youth population, especially in the agriculture value chain, such as the bio-ethanol implementation project.

     

    According to him, more young citizens in their productive age must be encouraged by the government to get involved in anything related to agriculture, particularly cassava bio-ethanol diversification for alternative and cleaner energy for economic growth.

     

    “The youth are an ignored potential wealth of Nigeria. They are critical, and their population is a huge advantage that we have in Nigeria and Africa at large above the rest of the world, which we must maximise,” he said.

     

    He commended the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning for the inclusion of academia, research institutions, and other critical stakeholders like the Nigerian Academy of Science in the discourse towards effective implementation of the bio-ethanol value chain project.

     

    “We are working with the leadership of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, particularly on the bio-ethanol project, to ensure that everything that is done is evidence-based.

     

    “So what we’re doing is to ensure that this is not a white elephant project. As much as they work with the Nigerian Academy of Science, the academy’s responsibility is to provide technical support from the best brains in science among Nigerians and abroad.

     

    “We are also providing technical support and advice at every stage of the development of the bio-ethanol value chain,” he said.

    Similarly, the Project Consultant, Dr. Lanre Adekanye, urged the government to provide incentives that would attract youths to get involved in agriculture, especially the cassava bio-ethanol value chain project.

     

    “Our youths can be incentivised to be part of this project. Instead of looking for a white-collar job, a lot of opportunities abound in cassava and ethanol value chain projects.

     

    “Entry barriers facing youths to participate, such as barriers to resources, information, and other challenges, should be addressed by the government with proper sensitisation,” he said.

     

    A youth representative from Ekiti State, Comrade Ayuba Akinola, commended President Bola Tinubu for sustaining economic diversification drive through his renewed hope agenda so that Nigeria can meet up with the standard best practices obtainable around the globe.

     

    “Nigeria cannot be secluded from the realities of the 21st century, 21st century, which is diversification to bio-economy. Bio-economy enriches people, restores investors’ confidence, and is equally environmentally friendly,” he said.

    Another participant, Dr. Patricia Amaechi-Obi, from the Federal College of Agriculture, Ibadan, said that women and youths in agriculture need to be empowered to overcome barriers such as land acquisition and funds so as to be able to actively participate in the project.

     

    The workshop also featured presentations on the project monitoring and evaluation strategies, tracking and presentation of certificate among others.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)