Falana Charges Oyo Youth Parliament Leaders to Promote Youth Empowerment, Societal Development

The Chairman, Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Hon. Adebowale Adebayo Falana, has charged both outgoing and incoming members of the Oyo State Youth Parliament to sustain initiatives that promote youth empowerment and societal development.

He gave the charge on Thursday at the valedictory session marking the end of the 2nd Assembly, held at the House of Chiefs, Oyo State House of Assembly Complex, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Hon. Falana commended Governor Seyi Makinde for providing platforms that enable young people to actively participate in governance and policy formulation. He also applauded the outgoing parliamentarians for their commitment and contributions to youth development in the state.

“Leadership does not end with tenure. While the title may be temporary, the responsibility to serve is lifelong,” he stated, urging members to remain engaged in developmental initiatives beyond their time in office.

He further advised the incoming Assembly to uphold integrity, responsibility and dedication, noting that youth inclusion remains vital to sustainable development and democratic governance.

In his remarks, the Chairman, House Committee on Youth and Sports, Hon. Adebisi Yusuf, commended the outgoing Assembly for its service and encouraged the new members to maximise the platform for leadership growth and meaningful contributions. He assured them of the continued support of the House of Assembly.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Students’ Affairs, Hon. Victor Olojede, described the tenure of the 2nd Assembly as impactful, urging members to sustain their commitment to leadership, community service and personal development.

The Clerk of the House, Mrs. Taiwo Adenike Muraina-Akinola, and the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Mrs. Mustapha Kudirat, both commended the outgoing members and encouraged the incoming parliamentarians to remain focused and driven in advancing youth-oriented initiatives.

Delivering his valedictory address, the Speaker of the 2nd Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Fawole Israel, expressed appreciation to Governor Makinde and other stakeholders for their support. He noted that the Assembly recorded significant milestones through legislative engagements, partnerships and youth-focused advocacy.

He added that members demonstrated commitment to addressing issues affecting young people, while contributing meaningfully to governance and development in Oyo State.

A Milestone of Grace: Princess Ebunoluwa Elizabeth Osunkoya Set for Grand 80th Birthday Soiree

​ The Pacesetter State is preparing to play host to a spectacular celebration of life, legacy, and elegance as Princess Ebunoluwa Elizabeth Osunkoya gears up to commemorate her 80th birthday.

​The event promises to be a gathering of style and distinction, bringing together esteemed guests to honor a woman of remarkable grace. The celebration is set to take place on July 3rd, 2026, at the iconic Mauve 21 Hall, situated along the bustling Ring road in Ibadan.

 The atmosphere at the event is expected to be nothing short of electric, as the celebrated musical icon, Sule Malaika (K S1), has been billed to thrill guests with his signature soulful and rhythmic melodies throughout the occasion.

​As the countdown to the grand day continues, the social circles of Ibadan are already in high spirits, with family, friends, and well-wishers looking forward to joining Princess Osunkoya for what is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about events of the season. It is a day poised to be defined by warmth, celebration, and the infectious joy that comes with hitting the glorious age of eighty.

Defection storm hits APC, Accord, ADC as Adekambi, Ajadi, Olatunji receive defectors into APM in Oluyole

Oyo state political climate witnessed a major realignment on Thursday as the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Bimbo Adekambi, and the party's candidate for the Oluyole Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, formally received scores of defectors from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Accord and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) into the party.

The colourful event, which took place at Olomi area of Oluyole Local Government, also had party leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, market stakeholders, women groups and supporters from across the local government in attendance.

The development according to party faithful at the event reflect what they described as the growing influence of the APM ahead of forthcoming local government and general elections in the state.

The defectors, who arrived in large numbers dressed in branded T-shirts, pledged their loyalty to the APM and expressed confidence in the party's capacity to provide purposeful leadership and responsive governance for the people of Oyo State.

Speaking at the event, the APM governorship candidate, Bimbo Adekambi, described the influx of members from rival political parties as a clear indication that the electorate desire sustainability of the good governance in the state under the leadership of governor Seyi Makinde. 

Adekambi, who commended Olatunji for his grassroots appeal and popularity, assured the new members of equal opportunities within the party structure. 

He also urged them to remain committed to grassroots mobilisation and the party's collective vision of delivering quality representation and good governance.

He vowed to sustain and consolidate on the gains of what was described as a pervasive socioeconomic transformation across all the geopolitical zones of the state. 

The chairman, Central Campaign Council for Oluyole federal constituency in the forthcoming 2027 general election and Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, welcomed the defectors and charged them to work tirelessly towards strengthening the party's structures across the state.

Mogbonjubola noted that the increasing number of political stakeholders joining the APM was evidence of growing public confidence in the party's ideology and leadership under the guidance of governor Makinde. 

He assured that with dedication and collective efforts of party members and stakeholders, APM would deliver on all of its candidates from top to bottom. 

The host of the event and APM House of Representatives candidate for Oluyole Federal Constituency, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, expressed appreciation to the new entrants for choosing the party, assuring them that their decision would not be regretted.

He said the development represented a significant boost to the party's grassroots network in Oluyole and would further enhance efforts aimed at expanding the APM's political reach across the constituency.

The gathering was attended by several prominent political figures, including the Deputy Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke, and the PDP State Secretary, Hon. Oyelami Joel.

Also present were the APM candidates for Oyo Central Senatorial District, Hon. Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo and Oluyole State Constituency seat in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Waheed Akintayo; former Council Chairman, Hon. Popoola Olaide Settle; Vice Chairman of Oluyole Local Government, Hon. Niyi Akorede; and the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Oluyole Federal Constituency Matters, Hon. Olumide Akinlade.

Others in attendance included the Chairman of APM in Oluyole Local Government, Alhaji Nasiru Hamzat, as well as traditional rulers led by the Baale of Oleyo, Chief Kabiru Olajide.

The defectors were led by notable political figures from their respective parties, including Hon. Wahab Kazeem, who led members of Accord into the APM, and Hon. Lukman Arowolo, who coordinated the movement of ADC members into the party.

Also lending their support to the APM grassroots mobilization in Oluyole were market leaders led by the Oluyole Babaloja-General, Chief Mukaila Olalere, alongside other market executives, while the Chief Imam of Oluyole, Alhaji Taliat Abdul Azeez, offered prayers for peace, unity and political stability in the state.

Party faithful, ward chairmen, community stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women groups, market men and women, as well as youth representatives, were among the large crowd that witnessed the defection.

OYRLEA, SECURITY AGENCIES CLAMP DOWN ON ILLEGAL TRANSPORT ACTIVITIES AROUND ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL, OKE-PADRE

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), in collaboration with the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun Corps) and the Nigeria Police Force, has carried out a joint enforcement operation to address the persistent issue of illegal parking, loading and transport activities around St. Mary's Cathedral, Oke-Padre, Ibadan.

The operation followed a formal petition submitted to the Authority, alleging that commercial transport operators had repeatedly occupied the frontage of the Cathedral despite several warnings and engagements by relevant authorities.

 The petition further stated that the activities of the operators obstructed access to the church, caused traffic congestion, disrupted worship activities and posed security and safety concerns to worshippers and members of the public.

During the exercise, enforcement officers successfully cleared the area of unauthorized transport activities and restored order within the Cathedral's vicinity. A total of six vehicles were impounded for various traffic and environmental violations, comprising four commercial buses and two Micra taxis.

The operation encountered some resistance from a few transport operators who attempted to obstruct the exercise and incite disorder. Their actions briefly created tension in the area, however, security personnel acted promptly and professionally to restore calm and maintain law and order. The operation was concluded successfully without any major incident.

Reacting to the development, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke A. Aderemi (Rtd.), condemned the persistent disregard for the law and public order exhibited by the transport operators.

She stressed that places of worship deserve respect and should not be converted into unauthorized motor parks at the expense of worshippers and other road users.

According to her, "The Authority will not stand by while a few individuals hold the public to ransom and undermine the sanctity of our places of worship. The frontage of St. Mary's Cathedral is not a motor park. This enforcement action is not a one-off exercise, it will be sustained until full compliance is achieved across the State."

Justice Aderemi further commended officers of OYRTMA, Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force and the OYRLEA Enforcement Team for their professionalism, dedication and effective collaboration throughout the operation. She noted that inter-agency cooperation remains essential to ensuring effective law enforcement and maintaining public order.

She reiterated that the enforcement exercise was conducted in line with the Authority's statutory mandate to uphold the rule of law, protect public infrastructure, ensure public safety and safeguard the rights of residents and worshippers to carry out their lawful activities without obstruction.

OYRLEA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing relevant laws across Oyo State and warned individuals and groups against the unauthorized occupation of public spaces, illegal parking and transport activities that constitute a nuisance or threat to public peace and order.

OYO GOVT URGES TRADERS TO EMBRACE UNITY, PEACE FOR SUSTAINED ECONOMIC GROWTH

The Oyo State Government has called on traders across the state to continue to promote unity, peaceful coexistence and cooperation as key drivers of a stable and thriving business environment.

The Honourable Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Alhaja Faosat Joke Sanni, made the call while receiving the Babaloja General-in-Council and representatives from the seven geopolitical zones of the state at her office in Ibadan.

Welcoming the delegation, the Commissioner described the visit as an  opportunity to strengthen mutual understanding and foster closer l

collaboration between the government and the trading community. She noted that traders remain critical stakeholders in the state’s economic development and emphasized the need for sustained harmony across markets.

Alhaja Sanni urged market leaders to remain united and continue to work closely with the government, stressing that while differences may arise, dialogue and mutual understanding are essential for resolving conflicts and maintaining peace.

She further encouraged traders to channel their concerns through established leadership structures, assuring them of the Ministry’s openness and readiness to address issues affecting their activities. She also cautioned against misinformation and actions capable of disrupting the peaceful atmosphere in markets across the state.

The Commissioner assured the delegation that their requests would be conveyed to Governor Seyi Makinde for consideration, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to traders’ welfare and business growth.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Mamud Okesade, commended the Babaloja General-in-Council for fostering unity and coordination among traders. He highlighted the importance of organised and peaceful markets in driving economic growth and pledged the Ministry’s continued support for initiatives that strengthen market systems.

Earlier, the Babaloja General of Oyo State, Alhaji Abass Yekini Oladapo, appreciated the Commissioner and the Ministry for the warm reception. He noted that the council’s ongoing engagements across the state have enhanced unity, cooperation and understanding among traders, while reaffirming its commitment to improving traders’ welfare and expanding business opportunities across all 33 Local Government Areas.

Speaking on behalf of the seven geopolitical zones,  the market representatives congratulated the Commissioner on her appointment and pledged their continued support for government initiatives. They described the inauguration of the Babaloja General-in-Council as a landmark achievement in strengthening market leadership and coordination.

The representatives also acknowledged ongoing government efforts to support traders and promote inclusiveness, while appealing for the provision of buses for market zones and the office of the Babaloja General to enhance coordination of activities across the state.

Hon. Gowin Ikuru Felicitates Gov. Sanwo-Olu on 61st Birthday, Hails His Performance

The Senatorial Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) for Delta Central, Hon. Gowin Ikuru, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the occasion of his 61st birthday.

In a goodwill message, Ikuru described Governor Sanwo-Olu as one of the best-performing governors in Nigeria, commending his leadership style and developmental strides in Lagos State.

He noted that the governor's commitment to good governance, infrastructural development, and the welfare of the people has earned him admiration across the country.

Hon. Ikuru used the occasion to pray for Governor Sanwo-Olu, asking God to grant him good health, divine wisdom, strength, and many more fruitful years in service to the nation.

I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on his 61st birthday. He is one of the performing governors in Nigeria, and I pray that God Almighty will continue to preserve him, bless him with sound health, and grant him many more years to celebrate in happiness and fulfilment," Ikuru said.

Lagos Hosts Ethiopian Delegation to Deepen Sustainable Financing and Development Cooperation

 

The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDGs), has hosted a high-level delegation from Ethiopia on a sub-national exchange visit aimed at strengthening collaboration on sustainable development financing and the implementation of Nigeria’s Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF).

The visit, which brought together development financing and economic planning experts from both countries, focused on sharing best practices, fostering partnerships, and exploring innovative approaches to financing sustainable development initiatives.

Welcoming the Ethiopian delegation, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of SDGs, Mrs. Kaphayah Olayemi Sarumi, emphasized the importance of peer learning and strategic partnerships among African nations in addressing development financing challenges.

She reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to sound fiscal management, innovative financing mechanisms, and strategic partnerships that support the delivery of critical infrastructure and social development programmes.

According to Sarumi, the Integrated National Financing Framework provides a practical platform for aligning public expenditure with sustainable development priorities while ensuring measurable impact on citizens.

“Lagos State remains committed to the fiscal discipline, innovation, and partnerships required to bridge financing gaps and accelerate development outcomes. The Integrated National Financing Framework offers a structured approach for aligning our budgetary priorities with global sustainability targets while ensuring measurable impact for our citizens,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Ethiopian delegation, its Head, Mr. Solomon Tesfasilassie, expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its hospitality and willingness to share governance and financing experiences.

Tesfasilassie noted that Ethiopia is keen to learn from Nigeria’s sub-national financing strategies as it seeks to strengthen its own development financing architecture. He also commended Lagos State’s efforts in promoting economic resilience and sustainable urban development.

In a goodwill message, the Technical Adviser to the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Dr. Bala Yunusa, highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange and regional cooperation in tackling emerging development challenges across Africa.

He stressed that stronger collaboration between national and sub-national governments is essential for unlocking innovative financing opportunities and accelerating sustainable development across the continent. Yunusa also conveyed the Federal Government’s appreciation to Lagos State for hosting the exchange programme.

The multi-day engagement featured technical sessions, policy dialogues, and inter-ministerial reviews designed to promote the exchange of ideas and experiences in development financing.

The programme further strengthened bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Ethiopia and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to advancing the goals of Africa’s Agenda 2063 through sustainable financing, resilient institutions, and inclusive economic growth.