CHRISTIAN LEADER , PASTOR STEPHEN AJAYI WARN POLITICIANS AS 2027 ELECTIONS GATHERS MOMENTUM

As 2027 general elections  approach a Christian Leader and a CAC District Coordinating Council SUPRITENDENT  PASTOR Stephen OLUWATOYIN Ajayi has cautioned politicians in the country not to see struggling to attain power as do or die but play the game by the rule in the overall interest of Nigeria . 

Fielding questions from journalists  in Ibadan , the Planter of CAC  Victory Centre AkINGBADE Old  Ife Road Ibadan  Pastor Dr Stephen AJAYI said it is only God who enthrones whoever He likes and not by force emphasizing that thuggery and political violence can not do it calling on Nigerians to vote  according to their conscience . 

The Cleric warned the INEC Chairman to be guided by the fear of God as a  CAC Elder and avoid being induced by desperate politicians  . 

Pastor Dr Stephen OLUWATOYIN Ajayi called  on the Electoral Umpire to let everyone vote count in the 2027 General Election and ensure fairness, and credibility of the election . 

He called on the Security Agencies not to compromise professionalism and ensure peaceful and hitch free  Electoral process. 

The man of God called on parents to warn their children against being used by politicians as thugs to perpetrate mayhem during  the January and February 2027 Elections . 

The Minister of God called on religious leaders to always preach peace and unity in their religious organisations noting that it is only in the atmosphere of peace that there could be meaningful  development . 

The CAC DCC SUPRITENDENT  advised the Federal  Government to tackle the myriad national challenges such as BANDITRY , kidnapping , insecurity , corruption in high places and high rate of unemployment  for Nigeria to move on . 

Dr OLUWATOYIN Ajayi admonished Nigerians to pray for the Country and the leaders as Nigeria belongs to all of us. 

He eulogiZed the CAC President Nigeria and  Overseas under Pastor Samuel Olusegun Oladele for his sterling leadership style which he said has moved the Church forward . 

He however prayed to God  to grant Nigeria desired peace and take absolute control of the affairs of the Country and 2027 elections in particular .

Breaking: Two Surveillance Aircraft Arrive in Ibadan

The two surveillance aircraft acquired by the Oyo State Government have arrived in Ibadan, fulfilling the government's earlier assurance that the aircraft would be delivered before the end of July.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner For Information, Prince Dotun  Oyelade, he said the arrival of the aircraft marks another step in the state's efforts to strengthen security operations through improved intelligence gathering and aerial surveillance.

The Commissioner recalled that the Oyo State Government announced the purchase of the two surveillance aircraft on July 8, 2025, as part of measures aimed at enhancing the capacity of security agencies to tackle emerging security challenges across the state.

He added that Governor Seyi Makinde had, on July 18, 2026, confirmed that the aircraft arrived in Nigeria and were undergoing reassembly at the Nigerian Air Force's hangar in Lagos.

The commissioner said the state government had, about a week earlier, assured residents that the aircraft would arrive in Oyo before the end of July, adding that the latest development fulfilled that commitment.

The aircraft are expected to support security agencies, including the Amotekun Corps and other relevant formations, in monitoring criminal activities and improving response efforts across the state.

He also noted that the Governor is on hand to receive the two aircraft at the airport.

Oyo Govt Commences Market Leaders' Council Referendum, Reaffirms Commitment to Democratic Representation of Traders

The Oyo State Government has commenced the referendum process for the reinstatement and activation of memberships into the Market Leaders' Council, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and democratic representation of traders and artisans across the State.

The statewide exercise, which commenced on 14 July 2026, is being conducted across recognised traders' clusters and associations and will continue at designated venues until its conclusion.

Representing the Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, at the various referendum exercises, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, conveyed the warm regards of the Honourable Commissioner to the traders and artisans. He explained that the referendum became necessary following the expiration of the tenure of the previous Market Leaders' Council members on 23 March 2024, adding that each recognised traders' cluster and association is expected to democratically elect one representative to serve on the Council for a two-year tenure.

Okesade stated that the Ministry's presence at every referendum is to ensure strict compliance with due process and democratic principles. He stressed that elected representatives must emerge through broad participation by members from all the seven geo-political zones of Oyo State, while participating associations are required to submit attendance records, minutes of the referendum and group photographs on their official letterhead as evidence of a credible, transparent and duly conducted process.

He congratulated the representatives already elected, commending the unity, maturity and cooperation displayed by traders and artisans throughout the exercise. 

     He also disclosed that the Oyo State Government, in collaboration with the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Abass Yekini Oladapo,Presidents and members of  Trade Associations will soon conclude on plans to introduce an identity card scheme for traders across the State. This is designed to strengthen Trade organisation, recognition and ease  coordination of Traders by the Ministry.

The referendum exercise,  is expected to be concluded on or before 31 July 2026. Upon completion, the duly elected representatives will constitute the reinstated Market Leaders' Council, further strengthening collaboration between the Oyo State Government and the organised trading community in advancing commerce and economic development across the State.

The exercise reflects the commitment of the State Government  to promoting transparency, accountability and inclusive representation across organised trading communities in Oyo State.

NIMC, NUJ Forge Stronger Alliance to Promote National Identity Awareness

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has called for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to promote nationwide awareness of the National Identity Number (NIN) registration exercise through responsible journalism and accurate information dissemination.

The Management Champion of the NIMC office in Ibadan Mr Oluwafemi Aniye made the appeal while leading the Management team of the commission on a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, at the Press Centre, Iyaganku in Ibadan.

 Mr. Aniye described NIMC as a strategic Federal Government agency established to create and manage a comprehensive national identity database for all Nigerians and legal residents, ensuring that citizens can be properly identified anywhere in the world.

He explained that the commission was established under the NIMC Act of 2007, adding that the law was recently reviewed through the NIMC Act 2026 to further strengthen the country's identity management framework.

According to him, the 2026 Act has positioned NIMC as the nation's Root Certification Authority, a development aimed at enhancing digital identity management, authentication and secure verification of citizens' identities.

The NIMC Management Champion, stressed the importance of public enlightenment in achieving the commission's mandate, noting that the media remains a critical partner in educating Nigerians on the benefits of obtaining the National Identity Number (NIN).

He disclosed that, based on population figures available through collaboration with the National Population Commission (NPC), Oyo State has an estimated population of about nine million people, while over five million residents have so far been enrolled into the NIMC database.

The NIMC representative therefore appealed to the NUJ to support the commission's advocacy campaign by ensuring accurate, factual and sustained dissemination of information capable of encouraging more residents to register for the National Identity Number.

Responding, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem the NIMC delegation and expressed appreciation for the commission's decision to partner with the union in advancing public awareness.

Mr. Abas reaffirmed the commitment of the Oyo NUJ to professionalism, ethical journalism and compliance with legal standards in the discharge of its responsibilities.

He assured the commission of the union's readiness to collaborate in promoting initiatives that would enhance national development, improve citizens' access to identity services and strengthen public confidence in government programmes.

"We are committed to working with NIMC in ensuring that the public receives accurate information that will encourage wider participation in the national identity registration exercise for the benefit of Nigeria," he said.

Oyo NUJ Inaugurates Central Planning Committee for Diamond Jubilee Celebration

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has inaugurated its Central Planning Committee to coordinate activities for the council's forthcoming 60th anniversary celebration, with veteran journalist and tourism administrator, Wale Ojo-Lanre, appointed as chairman of the committee.

The committee is expected to coordinate activities leading to the Diamond Jubilee celebration, with the aim of preserving the history and legacy of the Oyo State Council while charting a new course for the future of journalism in the state.

Other members of the Central Planning Committee include Mrs. Bummi Olalere, Mr. Kemi Olaitan, immediate past Secretary,  Mr. Olusola Oladapo, Mrs. Phebean Ojo and Mrs. Bukola Owolabi.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Ibadan, the Chairman of the NUJ Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, described the Oyo Council as the oldest NUJ council in Nigeria and a pace-setting council that must continue to sustain its leadership role in the journalism profession.

He commended past leaders and former executive members of the council for their immense contributions to its growth and development, noting that their sacrifices laid the foundation for the council's enviable status.

According to Abas, the essence of the Diamond Jubilee celebration is not merely to commemorate 60 years of the union's existence but to create a lasting historical legacy in the annals of the NUJ.

He noted that following consultations with former chairmen and other leaders of the council, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, was unanimously nominated to head the Central Planning Committee in recognition of his wealth of experience and commitment to the profession.

The Oyo NUJ chairman also revealed that the National President of the union and other critical stakeholders in the media industry had pledged to participate in the anniversary activities.

In his acceptance speech, the Chairman of the Oyo NUJ @60 Anniversary Committee,  Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre thanked the council for the confidence reposed in him, describing the appointment as "a call from home."

He said the Oyo NUJ played a significant role in shaping his career in journalism, public service, culture and tourism, stressing that returning to serve the council at such a historic moment was both a honour and a privilege.

He noted that the Diamond Jubilee should go beyond celebrations and entertainment to include documentation of the council's history, recognition of veterans, professional reflection and the execution of a legacy project that would benefit future generations.

"The Oyo State Council has produced distinguished reporters, editors, broadcasters, media administrators, scholars, unionists and defenders of truth who have made remarkable contributions to journalism in Nigeria," he said.

Ojo-Lanre urged members of the committee to work with dedication, transparency and unity to deliver a memorable anniversary that would honour the pioneers, celebrate serving and retired journalists, inspire younger practitioners and attract the support of government, corporate organisations and other stakeholders.

He outlined seven pillars that would guide the committee's assignment: history, honour, professionalism, welfare, publicity, partnership and legacy, adding that the committee would work closely with past leaders and veterans to preserve the rich history of the council.

In his remark, former National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Dr. Gbemiga Bamidele, commended the Oyo State Council for its steady growth and achievements over the years.

He described the inauguration of the Central Planning Committee as a significant step towards a successful Diamond Jubilee celebration and urged members of the committee to justify the confidence reposed in them.

Bamidele also appealed to members of the union, former leaders and other stakeholders to give the committee maximum support to ensure that the Oyo NUJ @60 celebration becomes a memorable and historic milestone.

Makinde Fulfils Promise, Pays Hazard Allowance to Oyo Amotekun Personnel

The Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has fulfilled his promise to personnel of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps, with the payment of their hazard allowance, reaffirming his administration's commitment to improving the welfare and motivation of security operatives safeguarding lives and property across the state.

The Commandant of the Oyo State Security Network Agency and Amotekun Corps, Colonel Olayinka Olayanju (rtd.), disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday and made available to journalists in Ibadan.

 He said Governor Seyi Makinde's approval of the payment demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the welfare of frontline security personnel and further reinforces his reputation as a leader who fulfils his promises.

He described His Excellency's fulfilment of the promise to pay hazard allowances to Amotekun personnel as a significant morale booster for officers serving across Oyo State, noting that the gesture reflects the Governor's unwavering commitment to the welfare and motivation of the Corps.

According to the Commandant, His Excellency Governor Makinde had made the commitment in October 2024 during the passing-out parade of 520 Amotekun Forest Rangers at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Iseyin, where he assured the newly recruited rangers that their welfare, including the payment of hazard allowance, would remain a priority. 

He noted that the governor has now fulfilled that promise by approving the payment of the arrears of the hazard allowance, a development that has been warmly received by the personnel of the Corps.

Olayanju said the payment goes beyond settling a financial obligation, stressing that it represents recognition of the sacrifices made daily by Amotekun operatives who risk their lives to safeguard communities across the State.

 "The payment has significantly boosted the morale of our personnel and strengthened their determination to remain committed to the protection of lives and property. It is a clear demonstration that the government appreciates their sacrifices and is prepared to support them always," he said.

The Commandant observed that personnel welfare remains a critical factor in effective security management, noting that motivated officers are better positioned to deliver efficient and professional services. He also praised Governor Makinde's sustained investment in strengthening the state's security architecture through the provision of operational logistics, surveillance equipment, intelligence support, training programmes and improved welfare packages.

Olayanju recalled that since the establishment of the Agency in 2020, the Oyo Amotekun Corps has worked closely with the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies to tackle kidnapping, armed robbery, cattle rustling, illegal mining and other criminal activities across the 33 local government areas of the State. He further noted that the creation of the Amotekun Forest Rangers has expanded the operational capacity of the Corps by enhancing security surveillance within forests and the State border areas.

According to him, the Rangers have continued to play a vital role in securing farming communities, protecting agricultural investments and improving safety along major routes across the state. The Commandant expressed confidence that the improved welfare package would further inspire personnel to discharge their responsibilities with greater dedication, professionalism and patriotism. 

He reaffirmed the commitment of the Corps to sustaining collaboration with other security agencies in ensuring the safety of lives and property across Oyo State.

Olayanju also appreciated Governor Makinde for consistently prioritizing the welfare of security personnel despite prevailing economic challenges, saying the gesture reflects responsive leadership and responsible governance. 

He added that the fulfilment of the hazard allowance has further strengthened the confidence of officers in the administration and reaffirmed the governor's commitment to building a safer, more peaceful and prosperous Oyo State.

 

Lagos Christian Leaders Launch Grassroots Campaign for Tinubu, Hamzat, APC Candidates

Christian leaders in Lagos State have begun a statewide mobilisation and voter sensitisation campaign in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and all candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the forthcoming elections.

The mobilisation meeting, held at the Renewed Hope Ambassadors Headquarters in Lagos, brought together Christian leaders from across the state to strategise on grassroots engagement and electoral participation.

Speaking at the meeting, the Director of Christian Affairs of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, Dr Sam Ogedengbe, said the initiative was aimed at coordinating support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the election of Dr Obafemi Hamzat, and other APC candidates.

According to him, representatives were drawn from all 20 local government areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State to spearhead mobilisation efforts in their respective communities.

Dr Ogedengbe explained that the coordinators had been mandated to return to their churches and communities to encourage eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the electoral process.

He also urged members to sensitise their congregations on what he described as the achievements of President Tinubu's administration and the reasons they should support his bid for a second term.

As part of the meeting, local government coordinators were officially inaugurated to lead the campaign for President Tinubu, Dr Hamzat, and other APC candidates across the state.

The organisers expressed confidence that the grassroots mobilisation would boost support for the APC and promote increased voter participation throughout Lagos State ahead of the elections.