₦airaland Forum

Ogun Marks 50th Anniversary with Colourful Cultural Carnival, Road Show in Abeokuta

Activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ogun State continued on Thursday with a vibrant cultural carnival and road show that brought colour, music and excitement to major streets of Abeokuta, the state capital.

The procession featured six beautifully decorated floats representing the state’s major regions — Remo, Ijebu, Yewa and Egba (RIYE) — alongside a symbolic fish float highlighting the riverine communities, all celebrating Ogun’s rich cultural diversity.

Speaking at a reception held at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta, Governor Dapo Abiodun reaffirmed the state’s growing prominence in Nigeria, attributing its progress to the resilience, creativity and hard work of its people.

He described the carnival as a powerful showcase of Ogun’s cultural strength and organisational capacity, noting that it reflected the state’s ability to excel both economically and socially.

“Just as we demonstrated during the National Sports Festival, we have once again shown that Ogun State is not only the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity, but also the gateway to tourism, culture and social awakening,” the governor said.

“Our sense of state pride is at an all-time high. What we witnessed today — from morning till now — has been remarkable, spectacular and truly inspiring.”

Governor Abiodun expressed gratitude to past leaders for laying solid foundations for the state’s development and to civil servants whose dedication has helped build a thriving economy.

According to him, Ogun’s current achievements are built on decades of sacrifice, perseverance and collective effort, which have shaped the state into a proud cultural hub experiencing steady growth across sectors.

The governor noted that the carnival was designed to promote unity, heritage and resilience, adding that the golden jubilee celebration reflects the shared identity and pride of the people.

He assured residents of his administration’s continued commitment to people-focused policies and sustained development across the state.

No fewer than 3,000 indigenes from the 20 local government areas participated in the festivities, alongside dancers in traditional attire, drummers, masquerades, folkloric performers, skaters and bikers, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the city.

The highlight of the celebration was a colourful procession that moved from Oke-Igbein through Omida and Oke-Ilewo before ending at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, where cultural displays, acrobatic performances and music further thrilled spectators.

Ogun at 50: Abiodun Pledges Fairness, Equitable Development Across State

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed his commitment to governing with fairness, justice and inclusiveness, assuring residents that development will continue to reach every part of the state.

The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday during the State Banquet held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, as part of activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary.

Tracing the state’s journey since its creation on February 3, 1976, Abiodun said Ogun has grown steadily into Nigeria’s industrial capital, driven by consistent investments and strategic planning.

He explained that his administration has prioritised human capital development, education, housing, road infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and sports, leading to what he described as unprecedented progress across sectors.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the good people of Ogun State. I assure you that every promise I made will be fulfilled, and I will continue to govern with fairness, equity and justice,” the governor said.

According to him, the administration’s development agenda has been evenly implemented across Ogun West, Ogun East and Ogun Central since 2019, restoring the state’s prominence at both national and international levels.

The governor also highlighted the rising global profile of Adire fabric, describing it as a symbol of Ogun’s cultural revival and growing economic influence.

Calling on residents to sustain their support, Abiodun pledged to build on the foundations laid by the state’s founding fathers to make Ogun a model of progress in Nigeria.

In her remarks, Deputy Governor Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele commended past administrations for laying strong foundations and thanked citizens for their continued trust in the present government.

Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, described Ogun’s 50-year development journey as impressive, noting that the state has recorded remarkable transformation.

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, said the expansion of judicial divisions across the state has strengthened access to justice.

Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, said Ogun’s industrial strength and human resources have positioned it as one of Nigeria’s leading states.

Also speaking, Senator Sefiu Kaka, on behalf of former deputy governors, praised the consistency of leadership in the state and lauded the Abiodun administration for its commitment to sustainable development.

The Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, applauded the transformation of Abeokuta and improvements in security, urging the government to maintain the momentum.

Several dignitaries at the event, including former Military Administrator Col. Daniel Akintonde, industrialist S.K. Onafowokan, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola and Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, also commended the progress achieved over the past five decades.

The celebration featured a colourful cultural performance titled Golden Strides, anniversary cake cutting led by former governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, and musical performances by renowned artistes.

Ogun @ 50: Abiodun Celebrates Legacy, Progress in State Broadcast

Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ogun State as a moment of deep reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to sustained development.

In a statewide broadcast on Tuesday to mark the Golden Jubilee celebration, Governor Abiodun said the milestone underscored five decades of purposeful existence, built on the vision, sacrifices, and collective determination of the people of the Gateway State.

He recalled that Ogun State was created on February 3, 1976, out of the old Western Region, noting that the decision gave birth to a state founded on clarity of purpose and a strong sense of destiny. According to him, the Golden Jubilee offers an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the past while preparing the state for a more prosperous future.

The governor expressed gratitude to Almighty God and paid special tribute to President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for leading the nation at a historic moment when several states, including Ogun, are marking 50 years of creation. He prayed for continued wisdom and strength for the President as he implements the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Governor Abiodun highlighted the contributions of past leaders to the growth and stability of the state, acknowledging the roles played by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Olusegun Osoba, and other civilian and military administrators who guided the state through different phases of its history.

He said Ogun State had earned a reputation as a fountain of excellence, having produced notable national and global figures such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, and Tai Solarin, among others.

The governor also praised the contributions of women from the state, including Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, describing them as trailblazers who broke barriers and inspired generations.

According to Abiodun, political stability, religious tolerance, and inclusive governance have remained defining strengths of Ogun State, creating a peaceful environment conducive to growth and investment.

He noted that education has consistently been central to the state’s identity, adding that Ogun has evolved into Nigeria’s education capital with numerous federal, state, and private tertiary institutions. He also highlighted the state’s strategic location and growing industrial base as key drivers of economic expansion.

Governor Abiodun said his administration had prioritised infrastructure development, with over 1,600 kilometres of roads constructed or rehabilitated across the state. He added that the Gateway International Airport has been completed and certified, while projects such as the Kajola and Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Ports and plans for the Olokola Deep Sea Port are expected to further strengthen the state’s economy.

He disclosed that Ogun State’s economy is now estimated at about ₦17 trillion, with Internally Generated Revenue rising from about ₦52 billion in 2020 to approximately ₦250 billion by the end of 2025. He said significant progress had also been recorded in healthcare, education, housing, agriculture, power, security, and social empowerment.

While celebrating the achievements of the past five decades, the governor urged residents to remain united and committed to the state’s continued growth. He called on the youth to carry forward the legacy of hard work and responsibility, while appreciating elders and pioneers for laying a solid foundation.

Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive, transparent, and people-centred governance, describing the Golden Jubilee as both a celebration and a call to renewal for all citizens of Ogun State.

Obasanjo, Osoba, Monarchs, Others Celebrate Ogun at 50

Activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ogun State continued on Monday with an interfaith thanksgiving and prayer session held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The event drew a distinguished audience, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, past military administrators, traditional rulers, and other eminent sons and daughters of the state.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Dapo Abiodun said Ogun State had recorded remarkable progress over the past five decades, particularly in education, housing, healthcare, agriculture, and other key sectors of the economy.

According to him, Ogun is now one of the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria, with an estimated value of ₦17 trillion.

“Recent reports rank Ogun as the second-largest economy in Nigeria, after Lagos. Our state has attained an unprecedented level of prominence and excellence,” the governor said.

Governor Abiodun noted that Ogun has become the gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity, driven by multimodal transportation infrastructure, a world-class airport, and an extensive road network. He added that the state leads in education across all levels, has delivered an unprecedented number of affordable housing units, strengthened its healthcare system, and supported productive farmers, reinforcing its status as Nigeria’s industrial capital.

The governor also paid tribute to notable sons and daughters of the state, including Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, and Chief MKO Abiola, whose legacies laid a strong foundation for Ogun’s development.

In his remarks, former President Obasanjo commended past leaders of the state for their vision and dedication, noting that Ogun had made significant contributions to national development through its people. He urged the current administration to further leverage the state’s proximity to Lagos by strengthening infrastructure and attracting more investments.

Former Governor Osoba recalled Ogun’s historic role in producing the first Chief Judge of the Federation and highlighted the contributions of key figures to the creation of the state. He said the present administration was effectively building on the foundation laid by previous governments.

Speaking on behalf of former military administrators, Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin (rtd.) described Ogun as fortunate to have an educated and enlightened population, as well as leaders committed to the welfare of the people. He commended Governor Abiodun for giving attention to all sectors of the economy.

The Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and the Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, urged the governor to remain focused on delivering the dividends of democracy, noting that various parts of the state, including Yewaland, had benefited from ongoing development projects.

Chairman of the Governor’s Advisory Council and a pioneer civil servant in the state, Pa Olu Okuboyejo, reflected on the challenges at the time of Ogun’s creation in 1976 and expressed gratitude to God for the progress recorded over the past five decades.

Delivering a sermon titled “Ogun State, Be Grateful to God for Your Inheritance,” Bishop Michael Fape said the state had been blessed with visionary leadership from inception, enabling it to emerge as one of the foremost states in the country. He also commended the Abiodun administration’s ISEYA development agenda for expanding the state’s economic base and called for constructive engagement in public discourse.

Oil Discovery at Eba: Ogun Govt Reaffirms Jurisdiction, Cites Legal, Historical Evidence

The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its territorial jurisdiction over Eba Island in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, dismissing claims from some quarters in Ondo State as misleading and capable of triggering avoidable communal tension.

The clarification follows public debates and a motion sponsored by Hon. Donald Kimikanboh Ojogo, representing Ilaje Federal Constituency in Ondo State, after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the commencement of drilling activities at an abandoned oil well located on Eba Island.

In a statement issued on Sunday , the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, said the Eba Island where the approved oil well is located falls squarely within Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State.

According to Akinmade, boundaries between states and local governments in Nigeria are constitutionally defined and properly documented by the National Boundary Commission (NBC), adding that official boundary maps and records clearly situate Eba Island within Ogun State.

He explained that Eba is a long-established community within Ogun Waterside, whose status predates Nigeria’s independence and has remained unchanged through successive political and administrative reorganisations, including the 1976 state creation exercise that carved Ogun State out of the former Western State.

“Since 1976, there has been no constitutional amendment, judicial pronouncement or federal gazette that altered the boundary placing Eba outside Ogun State,” the statement said.

The government clarified that there are two distinct locations known as “Eba.” While one is located near the Ondo State forest reserve, the larger Eba Island—where the oil well approved by the President is situated—lies entirely within Ogun State’s coastal corridor.

Akinmade noted that the presidential approval for drilling followed extensive due diligence by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other relevant federal institutions, all of which confirmed that the oil well is located within Ogun State territory before clearance was granted.

He added that the deployment of national security assets, including naval formations around the drilling site, further demonstrates federal recognition of Ogun State as the host state.

Providing additional context, the statement disclosed that in October 2024, the Molokun of Atijere in Ondo State formally approached the Osobia of Makun-Omi in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, seeking permission to conduct business activities on Eba Island. The request was declined and subsequently reported to the Ogun State Government, NNPCL and security agencies.

According to the government, this engagement amounted to a tacit acknowledgment of Ogun State’s jurisdiction over the area.

On historical claims being circulated, the Ogun State Government described reliance on colonial documents from 1919 and 1920 as misleading, pointing instead to Colonial Government Gazette No. 660 of April 29, 1950, which clearly defined the boundary between the former Ijebu and Ondo Provinces and superseded earlier notices.

The government also cited lease agreements, historical community records and survey documents—including the Olokola Free Trade Zone Survey Plan—as further evidence establishing Eba Island as part of Ogun State.

Administrative validation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was also referenced, with the polling unit at LA Primary School, Eba, officially registered under Makun/Irokun Ward in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of Ogun State.

Akinmade said that following the discovery of hydrocarbon prospects in the coastal corridor, the Ogun State Government conducted independent verification of the well coordinates using geospatial and cartographic technology, which confirmed that the wells are located within Ogun State boundaries.

He added that Ogun State has worked closely with the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and NNPCL in securing the asset and preparing it for commercial exploration, including facilitating the establishment of naval security infrastructure in the area.

While cautioning against the spread of misinformation and inflammatory narratives, the Ogun State Government called for restraint and responsible engagement by all parties.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to the rule of law, peaceful coexistence and cooperation with the Federal Government in safeguarding national assets, adding that the people of Makun-Omi Kingdom have assured authorities of their readiness to maintain peace and protect lives and property.

“The facts are clear and the law is settled. Eba Island where the approved oil well is located is in Ogun State,” the statement concluded.

Ogun 2027: Yayi and Endorsement Beyond Borders

Ogun State is one of the leading States in Nigeria with profound political consciousness and greater sophistication among the electorate. Unlike in other climes where docility and sycophancy reign supreme as adopted political culture, that of Ogun State is practically cognitive.

This sophistication of Ogun electorate and their cognitive political culture have seriously advanced with time and frontally shaped the political trajectory in the state towards 2027 general elections, especially the gubernatorial poll.

There have been arrays of comments and opinions about the larger than life popularity of the Lawmaker representing Ogun West Senatorial District in the upper chamber of the National Assembly, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola popularly known as YAYI in the Nigeria's political parlance.

A cool, calm and convincingly collected personality with precise assertion, Senator Yayi has changed the pattern of political arithmetic and chronology in Ogun state, presenting a political credentials that automatically and unprecedentedly elicited uncommon support and affection among critical stakeholders.

Point blankly, Yayi has become an institution to study by political scientists and scholars of Comparative Politics, based on strategy, strength of character and sagacity; sincerely his political credentials remain intimidating and enviable.

Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola's greatest strength lies in his consistency and compassion, unlike many politicians in this part of the world, Yayi distinguishes himself with his distinct method of socio-political engagement, as he addresses the basic and essentials needs of the people directly with utmost precision.

It is these rare attributes of a politician that brought about what people are talking about today in Ogun State and beyond, the uncommon endorsement of Senator Yayi beyond borders ; from Ogun West his ancestral home to the Central which remains his maternal root and the eastern district of the State where he is being seen as their own.

This spread of endorsement goes beyond the common sectional and kangaroo endorsement of any type, it's a real endorsement of the people, those with requisite political sovereignty that determines who get what , how and when.

As it stands, there is a general consensus on Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi towards 2027 and across party lines, indeed, Yayi campaign groups all over Ogun State have become a Movement of sorts, moving towards victory in 2027 with a speed of light.

Sina Olamide writes from Igbogila

Education Remains a Pillar of Development, Says Abiodun; Donates ₦2 Million to Overall Best Graduating Student of OOU

Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State — Governor Dapo Abiodun has reaffirmed that education remains a cornerstone of his administration’s developmental agenda, emphasizing continued investment in the sector as essential for securing the state’s future.

The Governor made the statement during the 35th Convocation Ceremony of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), held at the institution’s permanent site in Ago-Iwoye. The event was particularly significant as it coincided with Ogun State’s 50th anniversary, with Governor Abiodun noting that the university stands proudly among the legacies of this defining milestone in the state’s history.

Represented at the ceremony by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun lauded OOU for producing competent, innovative, and future-ready graduates while upholding high standards of discipline, innovation, and service. He commended the Pro-Chancellor, Professor Toyin Ashiru, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Johnson Agboola, and members of the Governing Council and Senate for sustaining the university’s ideals.

“The 35th Convocation celebrates academic excellence, access, and institutional relevance,” Governor Abiodun said. “By placing reliable data at the centre of decision-making, our administration has enhanced transparency, improved outcomes, and ensured that every intervention across the education value chain is strategic and measurable.”

Highlighting his administration’s commitment, the Governor revealed that ₦275.4 billion, representing 17% of the state’s ₦1.7 trillion 2026 budget, was allocated to education. “This reflects our determination to expand access to quality education, reduce inequality, and ensure no child is left behind, regardless of background or location,” he said.

Governor Abiodun congratulated the graduating students, urging them to continue learning, asking questions, and serving as ambassadors of the university. As a demonstration of support for academic excellence, he donated ₦500,000 to each of the 13 best graduating students from the university’s faculties and ₦2 million to Master Ajayi David of the Faculty of Engineering, who emerged as the overall best graduating student.

In his remarks, Vice-Chancellor Professor Ayodeji Olayinka Agboola praised OOU’s tradition of excellence, noting that the university currently ranks 16th nationally among 321 Nigerian universities, based on academic visibility, research output, and web presence. He highlighted that the university is second only to LAUTECH among state-owned institutions in Nigeria.

Professor Agboola also commended Governor Abiodun for prioritizing education as a catalyst for holistic and transformative development, reaffirming OOU’s commitment to advancing a knowledge-driven economy anchored on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development aligned with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

TASUED Convocation: National Endorsement, Not a Snub

By Kola Aderohunmu

Recent attempts to frame the 17th Convocation Ceremony of the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, as a political slight against Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, are rooted more in conjecture than in fact. A careful review of the events shows clear national validation rather than any marginalisation.

At the heart of the convocation was the formal transfer of TASUED from Ogun State ownership to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The transition was concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Governor Abiodun and the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Suwaiba Sa’idu Ahmad, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In governance practice, ministerial representation constitutes full executive presence, making any suggestion of a snub logically inconsistent.

The ceremony also marked TASUED’s transformation into the Tai Solarin Federal University of Education, a development that ensures stronger funding, institutional stability, staff welfare, and long-term academic sustainability. This milestone reflects deliberate national policy rather than political marginalisation.

Claims regarding the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are similarly misplaced. She was represented by Hajiya Nana Shettima, wife of the Vice President, who conveyed goodwill and announced a ₦50 million endowment fund for the best graduating female student. Representation accompanied by a tangible educational intervention cannot reasonably be construed as disregard.

The convocation also included the conferment of honorary degrees on distinguished Nigerians, including former Governor Olusegun Osoba and Governor Abiodun. University authorities, led by the Pro-Chancellor and Acting Vice-Chancellor, publicly acknowledged the contributions of both the Federal and Ogun State Governments to a seamless transition while affirming the institution’s record of full programme accreditation. These actions reflect institutional validation rather than political symbolism.

Much of the controversy appears to stem from a tendency among some commentators to frame positive developments as political controversies. Milestones are recast as disputes, and policy achievements are interpreted with suspicion rather than evidence.

Governor Abiodun’s administration has demonstrated measurable commitment to education, exemplified by a ₦275.4 billion allocation to the sector in the 2026 budget. The federalisation of TASUED aligns with this commitment and complements the Federal Government’s broader education reform agenda.

A snub, by definition, implies deliberate exclusion or rejection. The sequence of events at TASUED — federal representation, formal agreements, public commendation, and financial endowment — demonstrates the opposite. The 17th convocation will be remembered not as a political slight, but as a landmark in institutional advancement achieved through intergovernmental cooperation.

Ultimately, facts retain their authority regardless of narratives constructed around them, and it is these facts that will define the legacy of the event.

Ogun Begins 50th Anniversary Celebration with Weekly Road Commissioning

The Ogun State Government has commenced activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of the state with the weekly commissioning of major road projects across different parts of the state.

The Golden Jubilee celebration began last week with the commissioning of the Wole Soyinka Train Terminal and the Sagamu–Ayepe Road in Sagamu Local Government Area. This was followed by the commissioning of Afon Palace Road in Imeko/Afon Local Government Area.

As part of the ongoing activities, Governor Dapo Abiodun will on Friday, January 30, 2026, commission the Abeokuta–Obalende Road and the Osinubi New Town Road in Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area.

According to the state government, the road commissioning exercise is designed to showcase key infrastructure projects delivered across the three senatorial districts as part of the 50th anniversary celebration.

Other programmes lined up to commemorate the milestone include an inter-faith thanksgiving service scheduled for Monday, February 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Arcade Ground, Office of the Governor, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

A state banquet will hold on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, by 4:00 p.m., also at the Arcade Ground, Oke-Mosan.

Cultural displays and a carnival float are expected to take centre stage on Thursday, February 5, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m., with the procession moving from Isale-Igbein to Lalubu Road in Abeokuta.

The government added that another round of road commissioning exercises would commence the following week as part of the continuing Golden Jubilee activities.

E signed

Kayode Akinmade
Special Adviser
Information and Strategy

Abiodun Commissions Imeko-Afon Township Road, Orders Immediate Reconstruction of Olorunda–Imeko Road

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Wednesday commissioned the Imeko-Afon Township Road and ordered the immediate reconstruction of the Olorunda–Imeko Road.

The Imeko-Afon Township Road, originally constructed in 1959 by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was commissioned at a ceremony held in Imeko-Afon Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, Governor Abiodun said the decision to reconstruct the Olorunda–Imeko Road followed his personal experience while traveling on the road earlier in the day, describing its condition as deplorable.

According to the governor, he immediately directed the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure to prepare an estimate for the project and ensure that the road is advertised for bidding by qualified contractors.

“I told the commissioner that the project must go to the next Executive Council meeting and that construction should begin immediately,” Abiodun said.

The governor disclosed that his administration has constructed more than 1,600 kilometres of roads across the state in the last six and a half years. He added that the government also facilitated the construction of the 100-kilometre Sagamu Interchange–Papalanto–Obelle Road using reinforced concrete.

Abiodun said his administration would continue to respond to criticism through performance, stressing that Yewaland would continue to receive its fair share of development.

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Badagry–Sokoto Highway project, which passes through Imeko-Afon, noting that the project would significantly ease the transportation of agricultural produce upon completion.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, said the Imeko-Afon Township Road would enhance trade between Imeko-Afon and Abeokuta North Local Government Areas and help address flooding challenges in the community.

The Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, praised the administration for what he described as a renewed development focus on Ogun West, urging the governor to sustain the momentum.

Similarly, the Obaladi of Afon, Oba Babatunde Rasheed, commended the governor for reconstructing the township road, which he said had been abandoned by previous administrations.

Chairman of Imeko-Afon Local Government, Hon. Theophilus Oloyede, said the project demonstrated the government’s commitment to economic development, noting that improved road access would boost agricultural activities.

Also speaking, the lawmaker representing Imeko-Afon State Constituency, Hon. Jemili Akingbade, described the project as a major boost to commerce and agriculture in the area.

The member representing Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, also lauded the state government’s efforts on road infrastructure, saying the Imeko-Afon Township Road would promote prosperity for the people and the state.

Lagos -Abeokuta Road Reconstruction: Reflecting on developmental ideology of Gov. Dapo Abiodun

Olaniyi Ajibola

The concept of development is intrinsically relative in the Global South, where leaders majorly weaponize poverty and misery to hijack and sustain political power, thereby leaving people in perpetual agony without recourse to conscience.

However, despite the rampancy of the menace in most of these developing countries of the world, there are still few leaders at different levels of leadership that have conscientiously distinguished themselves to be responsive and sensitive to the plights of their people and genuinely ready to ameliorate their unpalatable conditions.

The developmental drive of the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun since it's inception has been undoubtedly predicated on inclusivity and sensitivity, as he publicly pledged conscious and constant interventions in all sectors across the state in equal proportion.

Obviously, one of the greatest challenges the administration inherited was road infrastructure within the ambit of both Federal and State governments and because of the proximity of the state to Lagos as well as it's status as Nigeria's industrial hub, this challenge became a serious embarrassment to Ogun State.

Among the roads of profound concerns inherited by the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun is Lagos -Abeokuta highway, spanning Lagos, Ota, Ifo through Ewekoro and totalling 81 kilometers. It was first awarded in 2003 but abandoned in a very deplorable state, causing unimaginable daily suffering to motorists on that route.

The sensitivity of the Governor therefore , coupled with his proactive developmental ideology made him to quickly push for the reconstruction of the road immediately he assumed office to address the daily suffering of the people and enhance economic activities in that corridor.

Unfortunately, the sensitivity of Governor Dapo Abiodun met pure insensitivity from the Federal Government of that era and he was provocatively prevented from working on the road, however, his consistency paid off during the present administration of President Bola Tinubu when he secured the consent of the Federal Ministry of Works to go ahead with the reconstruction.

The joy of Governor Dapo Abiodun knew no bound on August 23, 2024, the day he flagged off the reconstruction of Lagos-Abeokuta highway, as he broke the 21-year jinx of stagnation and frustration on that all-important road.

" I am glad to inform you that work is beginning on the road immediately. The excuse then was that there was a sitting contractor on the road. The best the State could do at that time was to carry out palliative works on the critical sections along the road axis. We re-opened our appeal to the Federal Government to reconstruct the road upon the inauguration of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who graciously, through the Honourable Minister for Works, handed over the reconstruction of the road to Ogun State.


"I want to use this medium, therefore, to express my heartfelt gratitude to the President of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for obliging our state’s request by granting the approval and releasing the Abeokuta/Ifo/Sango/Abule-Egba Road to us for reconstruction.

“My sincere appreciation also goes to the Federal Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, for his support and cooperation in ensuring our State got the necessary approval to reconstruct the road,” the governor excitedly submitted.

Ever since then, no day passes without construction workers working on that road with determination to meet the time frame given to them by the state government.

As at the last count, steady and measurable progress has been recorded on the road, with intensified construction activities currently underway across key sections of the strategic corridor, as works progressing simultaneously through Itori, Papalanto, Ifo, Ewekoro and towards the Sango axis. At Ewekoro and along the Ewekoro–Papalanto stretch, rigid pavement construction and reinforced concrete drainage works are advancing steadily, reflecting the administration’s emphasis on durability and long-term infrastructure quality.


Also in Sango Ota and Obada Oko, asphalt laying of both binder and final wearing courses has been completed in several sections. Elsewhere along the route, grading, spreading and compaction of sub-base materials are actively ongoing, particularly around the Itori axis and Iyana Ilogbo.

According to Max DePree, ''The first responsibility of a leader is to define reality. The last is to say thank you. In between, the leader is a servant".

Sincerely, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as a thought leader has responsively defined the reality of putting stop to the suffering and frustration of Nigerians on that highway after 21 years of agony.

At the end of the day, when the people start to rejoice and celebrate the great triumph and relief on that corridor, Governor Dapo Abiodun will simply be saying,''Thank you President Bola Tinubu for giving me the opportunity to serve my people better as a servant -leader''.

Ajibola is a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Strategic Communications.

Sen. Adeola Yayi, redefining leadership with utmost consistency

Consistency remains a scarce commodity in an atmosphere of selfish tendencies and murky water of power struggles; however, any discovery of that rare attribute in toxic environment of such must naturally be celebrated for uniqueness and distinct values.

Of course, the pattern of political trajectory of one man in the Nigeria's murky political environment has practically and distinctively exhibits consistency without pretence and redefining purposeful leadership without blemish.

Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) the lawmaker representing Ogun West senatorial district in the upper chamber of the National Assembly is that man, who is changing primordial perceptions and opinions among people of Ogun State and beyond, with rare leadership qualities that continued to attract teeming electorate into his camp across party lines and cultural divide.

Like the former Prime Minister of United Kingdom and prolific writer, Benjamin Disraeli puts it,'' The Secret of Success is Constancy of Purpose", indeed, Senator Yayi has tremendously achieved huge success through consistent and inclusive leadership ideology from his early political career up till this moment.

While some of his naysayers have erroneously speculated that his home coming was shrouded in covert political gimmick to achieve certain parochial goal, his sterling performance within few months in office across Ogun West Senatorial district and even beyond permanently shut the mouths of his antagonists and perpetually make them confuse the more.

It is a known fact that Ogun State has suffered quality leadership in the larger part of its existence, causing serious backwardness in various strata of its sectors, especially in the area of road infrastructure and human capital development.

As a man with rich political credentials, Senator Solomon Adeola has shown the people of Ogun State that nothing is impossible if there is political will and compassion in leadership with the way he has swiftly addressed those basic needs of the people of Ogun West and unwittingly dwarfed his predecessors and even his colleagues across the country and Ogun State in particular.

In every empowerment programme and road construction Yayi had embarked upon in the past, it always turned out to be a topic of discussion around the country as citizens wonder if the man belongs to special Senate different from the one their representatives belong, when they compare what is happening in their zones and what Yayi is doing in his area of jurisdiction.

Many of his admirers across the country have expressed their surprise in the way the senator has carried himself with humility and calmess despite his large support base all over Nigeria and the degree of influence and respect he enjoys in the corridor of power.

Sincerely, no politician in the history of Ogun State and arguably in the contemporary Nigeria has paraded the kind of huge supporters Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi has continually sustained in the past years, and the fold continued to swell on daily basis.

There is a narrative in some quarters that what is going to happen during the gubernatorial election in Ogun State is mere endorsement of Senator Yayi, that the people of Ogun State are too eager to have him as their Governor without any alternative consideration irrespective of political affiliations and geographical differences.

There is no doubt that political developments in Ogun in the year 2027 will be the most interesting across Nigeria, with it's peculiar peace and clarity of purpose among the electorate who are unanimously and conscientiously forming consensus on Senator Yayi's candidacy as the next Governor of Ogun State.

Sina Olamide writes from Igbogila

Dapo Abiodun: Between Sterling Performance And Campaign Of Calumny

Olaniyi Ajibola

By exactly 3rd February 2026, which is few weeks away from now, Ogun State, the Gateway to corporate entity of Nigeria will be celebrating fifty years of its existence and indeed, the celebration can not be complete without mentioning great achievements and indelible impacts that have changed the face and the story of the state over half a century.

Speaking dispassionately without mincing words, the period between May 29, 2019 and now have been a turning point in the history of Ogun State, as a result of determination and conviction of a man in the saddle to change the old order of inemptitude and make history against all odds and innuendos.

Because of the murky nature of Nigeria's political system and the hypocrisy in power corridor, no one gave Prince Dapo Abiodun any benefit of doubt to prove his mettle before 2019, which made his creative leadership afterwards a shock for several of his naysayers and antagonists; while some of these individuals changed their ways and came back to praise and support the governor, others resorted to propaganda and campaign of calumny to denigrate him and create false narratives in the public space.

Obviously, to political obscurantists in the state and their ilk, Governor Dapo Abiodun must not be celebrated depesite his huge achievements in all sectors of the state's economy and several unprecedented fiscal initiatives that have put the state in the strong financial footing, hence, the campaign of calumny using Commercial Activists and Advocates.

Yes, people like JustAdetoun is a certified Commercial Activist who dwells in falsehood that completely defies common sense and logical reasoning. Her outbursts against Governor Dapo Abiodun over the accident that involved a renowned boxer, Anthony Joshua and his friends along Lagos-Ibadan expressway sincerely stood logic on the head.

Clearly, no sound mind in a sound body would have come up with such narrative as not having functional ambulances in a state like Ogun State where government consciously prioritises infrastructure and welfare of the people beyond expectations as a leading industrial hub in Nigeria and a transit point to many states across Nigeria, where over 50 ambulances were positioned in strategic locations across the State.

Of course, such false accusation is a product of either chronic mental illness or pecuniary gains. While the former can not be immediately acsertained despite several traces, the former is most likely, considering the present political atmosphere in the senatorial district where the accuser hailed from and the desperation of a particular political player in the zone.

Another element in this game of Commercial Activism and Advocacy is one glutton, the self-acclaimed 'Balogun Eko' a notorious blackmailer whose trade-in-stock is defaming pubic figures for the purpose of forcing them into submission of parting with some cash to stop his verbal diarrhoea.

This notorious blackmailer did not start today or with Prince Dapo Abiodun, he once blackmailed President Bola Tinubu before the man became number one citizen in Nigeria and turned around to praise him when he became president, he did the same to Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu and recently King Wasiu Ayinke Mashal.

This self acclaimed 'Balogun Eko' is a bad example of a Yoruba man with zero culture of hardwork and decency, the attributes that constitute the ethos of Omoluabi in every Yoruba person. He behaves like a bastard in foreign land struggling to make ends meet through the backdoor.

Like JustAdetoun like self-acclaimed 'Balogun Eko', both represent the dark side of our society and pose serious danger to the coming generations, as they both commercialized activism and advocacy with tools of falsehood without recourse to their conscience and posterity.

However, like the 16th American President, Abraham Lincoln rightly observed,'' No Man Has A Good Enough Memory To Make A successful Liar". So, since these liars are insufficiently cognitive, it's incumbent on us to expose their lies and put issues in proper perspectives.

Every resident of Ogun State is aware and appreciative of the kind of socio-political environment the government of Prince Dapo Abiodun has created through responsive leadership. Unlike before when the state was made highly volatile with activities of political thugs and gangsters, the state has now become peaceful with attendant improved economy, creating a business -friendly ambience that made Ogun State the best in Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria.

Through his decisive concept of development popularly known as 'ISEYA' the acronym for Infrastructural development, Social Welfare, Education, Youth Empowerment and Agriculture, Prince Dapo Abiodun has built over 1500kms of roads, surpassing the combined efforts of his predecessors in totality.

The pattern of road construction adopted by the Governor is distinctly commendable, considering the huge deficit he inherited from previous administrations and the need to ameliorate the sufferings of the people, Prince Dapo Abiodun took it upon himself to intervene in several Federal Government roads and those roads in the Lagos-Ogun border communities that were last constructed during the administration of Aremo Olusegun Osoba.

Despite this huge deficit in the face of limited resources, the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun has been very consistent in changing the embarrassing story of deplorable roads across the three senatorial districts as several ones have been concluded while others are ongoing with appreciable degree of completion.

Also, the Governor has brought a lot of reforms into the system, thereby improving the IGR of the state and enhancing it's financial base. For example, advanced technology was introduced in the process of issuance of Certificate of Occupancy, which totally eliminated bureaucracy and sharp practices and served as a big relief for investors who are willing to acquire lands for construction of factories.

In the same vein, several multinational companies have been made to establish their factories in Ogun State as a result of impressive infrastructure put in place by the government as well as attractive policies that support business to thrive, including the largest garment factory in Africa, projected to provide between 120,000 and 150,000 direct and indirect jobs for the teeming youths and located within the Special Agro Processing Zone in Ilisan/Iperu axis.

Aliko Dangote, the African richest man last year declared that the new economic policy of the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun, coupled with his genuine concerns about developing Ogun State have made him to change his mind about investing in the State after suffering array of humiliation and harassment from immediate past government in the state.

The Dangote group immediately returned back to Itori, the administrative headquarters of Ewekoro Local Government Area of the State, to complete the construction of a gigantic cement factory it once abandoned and as well commenced arrangement to establish a major seaport and a dry port at Olokola free trade zone in Ogun State, to enhance logistics for his refinery and fertilizer complex, aiming to create Nigeria's biggest and deepest port, connected by rail to inland dry ports like the proposed Ijebu-Ode facility, transforming the region into an industrial hub.

It is a known fact that the Gateway International Airport is a milestone for the State and a strategic move to strengthen the industrial capacity of the state and explore it's advantage of location, with proximity to Lagos, the financial nerve centre of Nigeria. With biggest runway in Nigeria, the Airport has since been operating commercial flights to Abuja.

We can go on and on to mention and celebrate the unprecedented achievements of Prince Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State with precision and verifiable evidence beyond the senseless narratives of Commercial Activists and Advocates alike.

Ajibola is a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Strategic Communications

Beyond 2027: The Growing Calls for Abiodun’s Senate Bid​








Femi Ogbonnikan








Nigeria is once again caught in the fever pitch of pre-election politics. In Ogun State, the conversation is no longer just about the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun’s current achievements; it has moved to the next level. The burning question is: what comes after 2027?​
While the answer is still tucked away in the womb of time, the whispers within the All Progressives Congress (APC) are becoming louder. Communities, concerned groups and high-ranking party leaders are reportedly nudging the Governor towards a Senate seat. It is a strategic move that would see him remain a vital force in the nation's political fabric, ensuring his experience continues to serve the interest of his constituents well beyond his departure from Government House, Okemosan, Abeokuta.
This pressure from the party leadership is not merely ceremonial; it is a calculated move to preserve the party's ranking influence within the National Assembly. By elevating an experienced executive to the Red Chamber, the APC seeks to bridge the gap between state-level governance and federal policy-making, ensuring that the 'ISEYA' legacy has a powerful voice in Abuja.​ In Nigeria, the Senate is often referred to as the retirement home for Governors, but in a strategic sense, it is about relevance. For the APC, having an experienced ally like Abiodun in the Red Chamber ensures that the party maintains a high-ranking loyalist at the federal level who can still influence Ogun State politics from Abuja.​​
With the presidency currently in the Southwest, the APC hierarchy is keen on consolidating power. By moving a sitting governor into the Senate, the party ensures that the legislative arm has heavyweights who can defend the interests of the region and the party’s national agenda, especially regarding federal allocations and regional projects.​The Senate operates on a ranking system. If Abiodun wins a seat in 2027, he enters with the prestige of a two-term governor. The party hierarchy may see him as a potential candidate for a Principal Officer role (like Senate President or Chief Whip) in the future, which brings more federal power and resources back to Ogun State.​
By encouraging the Governor to move to the Senate, the APC hierarchy may be trying to manage succession politics. Providing the outgoing Governor with a clear next step can prevent internal friction between him and whoever emerges as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for 2027, ensuring a smoother transition of power within the state.
The Governor's performance is no longer a localized metric but a 'proof of concept' for his federal potential. His success in Ogun’s Industrial Revolution and IGR growth, ranking only behind Lagos, serves as his primary credential for a seat in the Red Chamber.​ The shift in conversation from his performance on the ISEYA mantra to his 2027 options suggests that stakeholders have already certified his executive competence. The current rating criteria have evolved: voters are now assessing his ability to translate state-level success into legislative influence at the national level.​ By positioning himself for the Senate, Abiodun is signaling a desire to protect his legacy.
A high rating in 2027 would effectively serve as a Letter of Recommendation' from the people of Ogun to the National Assembly. Ultimately, the Governor’s performance rating has become the bedrock of his post-2027 viability. By transforming Ogun into a top-tier investment hub and securing accolades like the Forbes ‘Best of Africa’ award, Abiodun has moved beyond mere state-level appraisal. His record is now being viewed as a Federal Resume, where every completed project strengthens the argument for his transition to the Senate as a seasoned administrator capable of high-level policy advocacy. The shift in focus towards 2027 is essentially a transition from a 'State Performance Review' to a 'Federal Job Interview.' Abiodun’s rating is no longer tied to local road repairs alone, but to his Economic Viability. Having overseen an Ogun State budget that crossed the ₦1 trillion mark—ranking the state as the 3rd highest in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) nationwide—his performance is being interpreted by the stakeholders as a 'proof of concept' for his readiness to lead high-level Finance or Appropriation committees in the Senate.​ However, a holistic performance rating must also account for the last mile challenges. While the Gateway International Airport stands as a crown jewel of his administration, hitherto, critics in areas like Sango-Ota and Agbado point to the deplorable state of Federal-link roads as a lingering issue, but have been reconstructed. For Abiodun, a Senate seat is being framed not just as a reward, but as a strategic necessity—giving him the legislative platform to finally fix those federal bottlenecks that even a Governor’s executive powers could not fully resolve.
Beyond political maneuvering, the Governor’s performance scorecard serves as a testament to a dependable leadership style that citizens can rely upon. In an era where effective service delivery is often the exception rather than the rule, his administration's focus on the 'ISEYA' mantra has provided a blueprint for tangible results. This track record suggests that his potential transition to the Senate would not just be a change of office, but a scaling up of a proven model for robust legislative representation and community development.
His dependable track record cuts across the key areas like infrastructure, transport projects, education, housing, industry and investment, security as well as social welfare. In infrastructure, Abiodun has constructed more roads than any of his predecessors. Within six years, he has constructed well over 1,500km of roads and completed the Gateway International Airport. The Airport seves as a proven ability to lobby for Federal Aviation & Transport projects. His investment initiatives are tied to reform policies, like the Ease-of-Business Ranking, leading to attraction of over 70 percent of Nigeria's new manufacturing companies.
These achievements present him as an ideal candidate for Senate Committee on Industry and Investment. The administration's grassroots-focused development that impacts could be seen in the renovation of over 1,000 schools (Yellow Roofs revolution) and upgraded Primary Health Centers in 236 wards.
Overall, this performance scorecard is a testament to Governor Abiodun's dependable leadership style people can rely upon for effective service delivery, robust legislative role and community development. Over the years, he has demonstrated skill in navigating federal bureaucracy and policy. Through his robust legislative potential, he was able to successfully lobbied for Ogun to be recognized as an oil-producing state. As the Governor approaches the twilight of his second term, the clamour for his Senate bid is fueled by a simple logic: dependability. Having transformed Ogun into a top-tier industrial hub and Nigeria’s investment destination of choice, the 'womb of time' may soon reveal that his next chapter is in the hallowed chambers of the Senate—carrying with him the same spirit of effective service that has defined his governorship.
While the ultimate decision remains under wraps, the consensus among political analysts is clear: a leader who has proven himself a dependable steward of a state’s resources is the ideal candidate to protect those to at the federal level.​ As the sun begins to set on his gubernatorial term, the womb of time seems poised to birth a new chapter of service—one where the robust legislative role of Dapo Abiodun becomes the cornerstone of Ogun’s continued growth in the Red Chamber.​
A central theme in this unfolding narrative is the prolonged yearning of the Ogun East Senatorial District for effective and heavyweight representation at the Red Chamber. This has been a recurring discourse among stakeholders who feel that the district requires a representative with the executive clout to navigate the complexities of federal legislation. Expectation is high that Governor Abiodun will heed this call, transitioning from the state house to the Senate to fill this perceived void.​ This expectation is rooted in a dependable leadership style that the people have come to rely upon. His performance scorecard serves as a testament to effective service delivery—most notably through the 'ISEYA' mantra. By transforming Ogun into a top-tier industrial hub and securing its position as a leading IGR performer, Abiodun has demonstrated the federal readiness required for a robust legislative role.​ For the Ogun East constituents, Abiodun in the Senate represents effective service delivery. The assurance is that the executive speed seen in his governorship will be applied to legislative oversight. His robust Representation will provide a voice strong enough to ensure Ogun East receives its fair share of federal projects and interventions.​
In line with his community development effort, a continuation of the grassroots impact seen in his Yellow Roof" school projects and healthcare upgrades will guarantee better life for Ogun East constituents.​​ As the 2027 horizon nears, the shift in focus is clear. The conversation is no longer about his performance—which many consider a settled matter—but about the mandate of necessity. Should he heed the call, the Governor would be bringing a proven record of reliability to a district that is hungry for good governance and quality representation.










Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Ogun State Governor on Media

Ogun's Creative Economy Through Tourism and Sustainable Partnership

By Olaniyi Ajibola

While the 21st century's idea of diverse economic advancement started from the narration of diversification, as countries, mostly developing economies came up with the thoughts of generating revenue through multiple means, this has now been overtaken by the concept of creative economy; an economic system where human imagination, creativity and intellectual property generate value and driving growth through certain sectors.

This speaks to the fact that it is not the number of sectors from where revenue is generated that matters but the degree of value certain sectors provide through creative initiatives and ideas. Afterall, a social commentator once said that ,'' You don't see money with your eyes but with your mind and a poor man is not a man without cash but a man without idea".

This strength of the mind to create value in certain sectors through creativity is what is changing the dynamics of Ogun State's economy since Prince Dapo Abiodun assumed office as the 5th executive governor of Ogun State, as he embarked on aggressive departure from stagnant economic system of old, which solely depended on monthly allocations from the federation account.

As Governor Dapo Abiodun's success in industrialization through brilliant policies that made Ogun State the best in Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria remains indelible across the country so also the dynamic creativity he brought to bear in the tourism sector of the state to boost the state's economy further and more efficiently.

One of the significant historical tourist sites in Ogun State is Olumo Rock, a primordial symbol of sanctuary for the Egba sub-ethnic group of Ogun State in the early 19th century, which became a fascinating site of attraction for people around the world.

Meanwhile, despite Olumo's historical value and attractive ambience, lack of political will and inemptitude leadership over the years have made it impossible for the centre to add relevant value to the state's economy.

It is in view of this reality that Governor Dapo Abiodun closed down the tourist centre for immediate renovation in April 2025. Showing a genuine concern and undiluted political will to transform the centre and make it a place of economic value for the state, the massive renovation was carried out with the speed of light and within three months, the centre was ready.

The centre comprises a galleria that contains artworks made up of pictures of eminent Nigerians, a gazebo, a restaurant that will serve both local and continental dishes, shops for selling adire fabrics, and a standby generator that will power the newly installed elevators and other facilities, coupled with the introduction of online ticketing to guarantee accountability.

Inaugurating the centre on July 31, 2025, Governor Dapo Abiodun, flanked by eminent personalities in the state announced that the place was officially opened for business with free entry to all members of the public till the end of September 2025. This turned out to become a strategy that launched the tourist centre to the new world of economic transformation.

The Governor later confirmed the degree of the economic transformation while receiving the management of MAG Group led by its strategic advisor, Mr Fayad Fayad at his office in Oke-mosan, Abeokuta late September saying before the renovation of the centre, it's turnover stood at N20m per annum, adding that the recent renovation had attracted more tourists to the site and tremendously increased the turnover to N20m weekly.

To further strengthen this revolution and sustain the tempo of speedy economic advancement at the centre, the state government on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Whatadeal Tourism Ltd for efficient management of the Olumo Tourism Centre.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi signed on behalf of the State government while Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh, signed for Whatadeal Ltd, at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Addressing Journalists at the Centre, the Commissioner noted that the decision to concession the site was to ensure that it is being manage by professionals who have the technical know-how in the sector.

Fagbayi further corroborated what the the Governor has earlier announced in September noting that the center has significantly improved the revenue base of the state, as he expressed optimism that the State would benefit more if the centre is being manage by professionals.

He said, "Before the renovation, we made less than N50m- N60m in a year but since the Ministry took over from August 26 to November 2, 2025, we made significant amount of money that increased the Internally Generated Revenue of the State, so, giving it to professionals that have more expertise and experience in the sector, we expect that they will make reasonable amount of money into the purse of the State government.

The Managing Director of Whatadeal Ltd, Mr. Fela Bank-Olemoh, in his address said his organization is happy to take over the running of Olumo Rock which is one of the most iconic tourist sites in Nigeria and Africa as a whole, saying apart from organizing various events, shows that include plays would also be staged on regular basis at the centre to attract more tourists across the world.

" We are going to have a Virtual Reality Center here so when you come here if you don't visit the virtual reality center,you've not visited Olumo, beyond climbing the rock, there are other things that will attract you here.

"We are going to ensure that there is a game arcade in this place, we are going to do many things to attract people here which is exactly what the government want to achieve in the first place, to increase attendance, maintenance of this site, create international standard in running this place, make this a place that people will want to visit when they come to Nigeria and that is commitment we've made, that is what we are going to do.

''We are going to ensure that we maintain the standard that has been set here and also improve it, like I told you, our vision is very clear, when we talk about tourism in Nigeria, we want it to be undoubtedly clear that one place you must visit if you come to Nigeria is Olumo Rock.

" One of the key things we've done is that the staff in Olumo remain here, we want to ensure that indigenes are here running Olumo, Nigerians are here running Olumo, that is going to continue, you are going to see more traffic here.

" We are making a promise to the Government of Ogun State, the people of Ogun State and Nigerians that keep an eye on Olumo, this site is going to become the most visited site in the country and when you're coming to Africa, people will say, I want to visit Olumo, that is our promise and that is what we are going to do".

This is indeed a profound assurance from a determined partner that knows his onus and prepare to hit the ground running with utmost alacrity. Some will say the company has no choice than to deliver effectively, considering the sophistication of template laid already by the state government towards making the site a global choice of sort.

Ajibola is a Senior Special Assistant to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Strategic Communications

Fed Poly Ede: Be Self Reliant, Innovative- Rector Advises Students

The Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ede Osun State, Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya, fnse has charged the students of the institution to be self reliant and be resourceful.

Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya gave the charge at the opening ceremony of the career training, organized by Directorate of career services center of the Polytechnic, on Tuesday, 9th December, 2025.

He said the purpose of the training was to empower the students with adequate skills as part of the re-branding of the Polytechnic and in conformity with the present administration for self reliance, and sustainability.

Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya then urged the students to grow and become employers of labour, self reliant and highly industrious, instead of waiting for an elusive white collar job.

The Rector also used the occasion to appreciate the efforts of the Director, career centre, Engr Dr. Kabiru Hassan for his selfless service for the institution inspite of the meager resources.

In his contribution, the Director, Career Centre of the institution, Engr Dr. Kabiru Hassan stated that the day marked a significant shift in the history of students development at the Polytechnic

He said, for years, the centre have excelled at giving students academic knowledge,,'' We have taught you the theories of Engineering, the principles of Accounting, and laws of Science, but the labour market of the 21st century demands more than just a certificate, it demands employability. That is why this Directorate exists. Our mandate, is to Empower you with skills, Connect you with opportunities, and help you Launch and Thrive in your careers", he said.

Dr. Hassan also used the occasion to appreciate the sterling qualities of the Rector, Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya, for his uncommon Leadership role, He stated further that " A leader takes people where they want to go, but a great leader takes people where they need to be."

Engr Dr. Hassan however reiterated that while others may focus solely on present, the Rector focuses on both present and the future. He said, the Rector approved the Directorate of Career Centre not just as an office, but as a launch pad for student's dreams, proving once again that he is not just an administrator, but a father who is deeply invested in the success of every single student under his watch.

Present at the occasion were: Rector, Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya, fnse, Deputy Rector, Academics, Alhaji Isiaka Lawal, Deputy Rector, Administration, Dr. Adeoye Ileladewa, Registrar, Alhaji Sanusi Ayantoye Rafiu, The Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Muftau Akorede Diyaolu, Bursar, Alhaja (Mrs) Shade Adebayo, Deans, led by the Chairman, Committee of Deans, Dr. Isiaka Tunji Adelabu, who also doubled as Dean, School of Business Administration and Management Studies among others.

Prof. Siyan Oyeweso's demise, a collosal loss to the nation- Ede Poly's Governing Council Chairman

Chairman, Governing Council, The Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, Prof. Taiwo Akanbi Olaiya, Esq, has described the death of an erudite scholar, Prof Siyan Oyeweso as a collosal loss to the entire Osun State and Nigeria at large.

Prof. Olaiya made this known on the sideline of the 8th day Fidau Prayer for the late Professor of history on Tuesday, 9th December, 2025 at Ede Mega High School, Ede, Osun State.

He told newsmen that the death of Prof. Oyeweso, who until his demise was the Pro Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Osun State was a personal loss to him

According to him'', The passing of Baapitan of Lagos, was a huge loss to me personally, in fact, I still can't fathom the sudden death, this is a man who have a lot to offer the country, with his deep and satisfactory knowledge of history and African culture".

Prof Olaiya further described the late scholar as a bridge builder, and a beacon of light, who inspired young minds to stand tall and speak boldly in the native language anywhere around the world.

He continued '', We have shared years of good relationship and he was a leader and always willing to support and treat any matter brought before him with urgency it deserves.

"On behalf of the 7th Governing Council, management and entire staff and students of The Federal Polytechnic, Ede Osun State, I'm using this medium to commiserate with His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa 1, Timi of Ede Land, Management, staff and students of the Polytechnic, over the loss of our former 5th and 6th member of the Governing Council

''Goodnight our beloved Baapitan of Lagos, Rest in peace".

ECOWAS must crush any coup in West Africa henceforth -ADAPHAI

It is appalling and terribly barbaric for some group of people with access to armament by the virtue of their profession to subvert the will of the majority in total disregard to the constitution and rule of law and hijack the machinery of government.

Without mincing words, the recent incursions of military officers in the civil administrations of countries in the West Africa sub-region must be quickly reviewed by ECOWAS and devise means of reversing this ugly trend without further ado.

It is obvious that the silence of ECOWAS in the face of military interregnum in Mali, Niger Republic, Burkinafaso, Senegal, Garbon and recently Guinea-Bissau had served as impetus for dubious military officers in the sub-region to be moving towards toppling democratically elected governments.

Against this backdrop, the reported coup in Benin Republic must as a matter of exigency be crushed and civilian administration should be restored immediately. This trend of military take -over must be seen and treated as affront on the preponderant will of the people and total suppression of liberty.

In this age and time, military administration is not only primitive but a complete retrogression of democratic trajectory in the sub-region and clear bane of economic advancement and social development. It must stop henceforth.

Olaniyi Olabode

ED, Advocacy for Advancement of Peace & Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI)

December 7, 2025.
advocacyinafrica@gmail.com

Ex-OAU Union Leader, Adegbite joins 2027 race in Ogbomosho

A former member of the Students' Representative Council and Special Adviser to Chairman of Students' Electoral Commission, Obafemi Awolowo University,Ile-ife, Osun State, Hon. Isaac Adeeyo Adegbite, has declared to represent Ogbomosho North State Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2027.

Adegbite, popularly known as Eyo in Ogbomoso political circle is contesting on the platform of Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) and said the rationale behind his ambition predicated on his satisfactory knowledge about the needs and challenges facing the local government.

A trained teacher, astute administrator and public commentator, Adegbite has an impeccable pedigree in public debate and constructive analysis right from his parliamentary days on OAU campus with huge popularity under the political name of "Honourable Akala".

He has carved a profound niche for himself in local politics and community development in Ogbomosho North and the Oyo State in general, with history of integrity, consistency and communal cohesion.

Declaring his ambition on Saturday in a statement, Adegbite said", I, Isaac Adeeyo Adegbite, from Sabi/Taraa ward nine in Ogbomoso North Local Government passionately wish to inform the general public of my desires to contest for the Ogbomoso North State Constituency under the PDP in 2027.

"Our ambition hinges on our deep rooted understanding of the needs and challenges of the Council. The Local Government is too important to be left in the care of political importees,our morbid desires for impactful representation and the need to promote the interest of our people to the State Government are motivating factors which shall continue to encourage me not to falter.

"Your support towards achieving these noble goals will be appreciated,having worked as a public School teacher for several years,worked as an administrator under the State Ministry for few months and being an academic in a tertiary institution have given me the requiste sociopolitical exposure and experience to understand the needs of our people.

I had witnessed the needs of the Students,challenges of an average citizen and the desires of several undergraduate Students.

This is the right time to support a home grown candidate with the right concepts, philosophy and orientation which I clearly represent".

Ogun 2026 budget and Abiodun's bold revenue target








Femi Ogbonnikan






Following the series of town hall meetings organized by the Ogun State government to seek stakeholders’ inputs into the 2026 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), the governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun on Wednesday, precisely December 3, 2025 presented a ₦1.668trn 2026 budget to the State House of Assembly, tagged "Budget of Sustainable Legacy" for consideration. This amount represents a 63 percent increase from the previous budget. In a radical departure from the past, the entire framing of the budget preparation focuses on high capital allocation driven by aggressive revenue generation. A high Capital Expenditure (CapEx) ratio is the hallmark of a development-focused budget. ​ The 2026 budget is fundamentally designed as a Capital-Intensive Budget, with the aggressive Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) target being the required fuel for this elevated spending on development projects.​ As presented before the state assembly, the budget essentially focuses on ambitious Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) targets, amounting to ₦509.88 billion to finance the new fiscal year.
For the realization of this significant increase, the administration intends to leverage the state's position as an industrial hub and a rapidly expanding economy. As the Governor rightly pointed out in his address to the lawmakers, the Ogun’s economy continues to grow strongly with the annual GDP now standing at ₦17 trillion. The net effect of this sustained growth has further increased the State’s capacity for IGR which has been in an upward trend from ₦52bn in 2020 to ₦192bn 2024, leading to a projected ₦250bn in 2025.
In this regard, the Governor specifically tasked the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OGIRS), including OPIC, the Bureau of Lands, and relevant Ministries to contribute ₦250 billion of this total. He charged each of these relevant agencies to intensify their revenue generation efforts, while also aiming at an aspirational target of about ₦750 billion by 2027. “Over the past six years, we have grown our State economy to an estimated Gross Domestic Product of about Seventeen Trillion Naira (₦17 trillion). Our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown considerably from about Fifty-Two Billion Naira (₦52 billion) in 2020 to close to One Hundred and Ninety-Two Billion Naira (₦192 billion) as of 2024, and is projected to reach about Two Hundred and Fifty Billion Naira (₦250 billion) for the full year 2025,” Abiodun enthused.
To engender effective collaboration, the Governor emphasized the need for all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prepare ambitious budgets, viewing them as "pieces of a jigsaw that must fit together to complete the bigger picture." The overall approach is one of fiscal discipline combined with accelerated investment in growth-enabling sectors. The overall analysis of the proposed budget highlights a renewed determination by the government to consolidate the gains made under its ISEYA Development Agenda, which stands for: Infrastructure, Security/Social Wellbeing, Education, Youth Empowerment/Job Creation, and Agriculture. Making specific reference to the government’s sustained effort for the creation of an enabling environment for industrial investment, Governor Abiodun highlighted key infrastructure achievements over the last six years, including the Gateway International Airport, now operational, as well as the ongoing work on the Kajola and Ijebu-Ode Inland Dry Ports.
Other than these landmark projects, he also gave a long list of road interconnectivity, amounting to1500 kilometres over the last six years. He said: “We have constructed and rehabilitated over 1,500 kilometres of roads-more than the achievements of previous administrations over a combined period of sixteen years. This unprecedented milestone has opened rural communities, improved urban mobility, reduced transport and logistics costs, enhanced trade, and boosted productivity across all sectors.“Major roads either completed or under construction in the Central Senatorial District include the 13.1km Ijana–Alapako–Oni–Mosa Road in Obafemi-Owode; 12.98km Kila–Alagbagba Road in Odeda; 10.34km Tepona Road in Wasimi, Ewekoro; 6.5km Olodo–Adawo Road in Odeda; 19.02km Akinsinde–Coker Market Road; 4.3km Akute–Ajuwon Road; and the 1.45km Alagbole–Ajuwon Road, all in Ifo.In the West Senatorial District, key projects include the 10.08km Agosasa–Idolorisa Road in Ipokia; the 16.02km Oja-Odan–Orobiyi–Ebute Igbooro Road in Yewa North; and the 3.12km Oke-Erinja Road (Phase I) in Yewa South.In the East Senatorial District, projects include the 15.19km Itebu–Ago-Isobo Road in Ogun Waterside; the 14.09km Mamu–Aba Panu Road in Ijebu North; the 8.64km Ganganbiaro–Odo Ona Road in Remo North; the 1.5km Awomasu–Agbato Road in Ogere, Ikenne; the 1.6km Odolewu–Lasesi–Isiwo Road in Odogbolu; and the 1.4km Awokoya Road in Ijebu-Ode.We also facilitated the construction of a dedicated access road leading to the Prof. Wole Soyinka Railway Station in Abeokuta, and have prioritized key federal corridors such as the 103km Sagamu–Papalanto Road and the 72km Ota–Abeokuta Road—critical steps toward regional integration and transport efficiency. ”The breakdown of sectorial allocation in the new budget further reveals the government’s intension to prioritize infrastructure as a key driver for industrialization. Out of the total annual budget proposal, infrastructure alone gulps ₦526.15bn, representing the largest single sectoral allocation, reflecting the administration's stated commitment to using infrastructure-specifically roads, bridges, and transport facilities—as the primary accelerator for economic growth, industrialization, and improved connectivity between the state and Lagos.This renewed commitment focuses on completing and rehabilitating road projects across all three senatorial districts to improve connectivity and economic activities. By focusing on infrastructure, the administration intends to cement the state's position as an industrial hub. It also emphasises the planned urban renewal, including the redevelopment of areas like Kara near Isheri, which is described as an important gateway to the state, to address its poor condition.​
The government’s decision to invest massively in infrastructure is like using one stone to kill two birds. Besides investment attraction, directly and indirectly, infrastructure will in turn generate massive employment for local engineers, artisans, and labourers through road construction and urban renewal projects. The administration’s human capital development initiative focuses on continuation of rehabilitation of science laboratories and technical colleges, training of STEM teachers, and enhancement of digital learning initiatives. For this realization, ₦275.40bn is earmarked for the education sector.
This is closely followed by the health sector receiving an aggregate allocation of ₦210.59bn. Among others, expansion of access to quality healthcare through the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme, renovation and equipping of Primary Healthcare Centres, and installation of solar power systems constitute the primary focus of the administration. Recalling the giant strides the administration has recorded, the Governor said: “Through targeted renovations, new facilities, solar-powered energy systems, and the implementation of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) at over 140 Primary Health Care Centres, we have strengthened healthcare delivery across the State.
“The expansion of the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme has increased enrolment to over 70,000 citizens, reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses and improving access to quality care—an achievement that continues to ease the financial burden of healthcare for thousands of households. ”For the Agriculture sector, the government’s focus on food security signals a determined effort to leverage the state's arable land to achieve food self-sufficiency and boost exports. This involves strengthening value chains, procuring modern farm machinery, rehabilitating farm settlements, and transforming rural markets like Kila Market into modern agro-logistics centres.
More importantly, the Ogun Youth Agricultural Programme aims to train thousands of youths annually in modern techniques like greenhouse management, creating new farmers and agro-entrepreneurs, thereby addressing food security.Youth empowerment and job creation focuses on empowering young people, supporting small businesses, and strengthening social protection systems. ​The strategy in the 2026 budget is focused on two main directions: direct skills provision and financial support for entrepreneurship. By projection, the budget is expected to fund the scaling up of OGYES, which is designed to provide grants and interest-free loans to young entrepreneurs. Previous announcements indicated grants ranging from N500,000 to ₦10 million for business-oriented youths and women. The new budget proposal aims to increase the reach and scope of these grants.​For business support initiative, the plan is to strengthen support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which are the largest employers of labour outside of government. This includes funding for capacity building and access to markets.​
To enhance skills development and employability, dedicated funds will be allocated to strengthen the Ogun Job Centre and Work Hubs like the one at Idi-Aba, Abeokuta. These centres serve as a one-stop shop for career guidance, vocational training, and linking job seekers with industrial employers in the state.​Additionally, arrangement has also been made for the continuation and expansion of partnerships with international agencies (such as GIZ-SKYE) to train graduates in essential employability and soft skills needed for the 21st-century labour market.
A significant provision has equally been made for intensive digital literacy and technical/vocational training to equip youths with market-ready skills. The biggest indirect job creation efforts are tied to the major capital projects, which the ₦500 Billion IGR target is meant to finance. The Governor views security as indispensable for achieving the ambitious ₦500 Billion IGR target. According to him, investment in security ensures investor confidence. A safe environment is crucial for maintaining and attracting new industrial investments, which are the main engine of the state's revenue. The huge allocation for security aims to ensure that the major transit corridors, especially the Lagos-Ibadan expressway and border towns like Kara, are secure to facilitate commerce and movement of goods. A significant portion of the budget will be channelled towards capital expenditure for procuring high-tech equipment, vehicles, and security infrastructure to solidify Ogun's position as a peaceful industrial state.​ Given the fact that security is one of the core pillars of the Governor Dapo Abiodun's ISEYA agenda, the administration's stated focus and previous spending history provide clear indicators of its priority. ​The renewed strategy is focused on enhancing three major areas: Community Policing, Technology, and Infrastructure Security.
Consequently, the budget prioritizes the recruitment and enhanced equipping of Amotekun operatives (the Western Nigeria Security Network) to strengthen community surveillance and crime prevention, especially in rural areas, forests, and border communities. By providing recurrent support and overhead for the operational activities of Amotekun, the corps will play a crucial role in complementing the efforts of the Nigeria Police.​ For enhanced surveillance, allocation for the deployment of solar streetlights in strategic locations and industrial areas has been made in the budget to improve visibility at night, which is a significant deterrent to crime. This is coupled with investment in communication equipment, patrol vehicles, and technological aids for security agencies to ensure rapid response times.​
More than a finance document, the budget maintains a careful balance between fiscal discipline and effective service delivery, ensuring that every naira expended yields measurable value. It addresses unemployment and poverty, supported transformative economic growth, and social well-being, while also committing to strategic investments that secure long-term prosperity.








Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Ogun State Governor on Media

I have painstakingly watched and systematically studied Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State with his unprecedented political will, capacity, and critical mind.

Sincerely, Gov. Peter Mbah comprehensively dwarfed every contemporary political leader in Nigeria, his masses-oriented policies and decisive move to change old order in the South Eastern State is highly inspirational and commendable.

From his super technologically driven security architecture, human capital development and aggressive infrastructural advancement, indeed, this Gov. Uba is from another world.

I continue to wonder how this man has exposed cosmetic solution a professor claimed to be providing in the neighbouring state and beyond convergence of global community called SUMMIT.

As a matter of fact, the traditional progressive governors of the South West must sit up unless this Enugu helmsman will soon surpass them in all ramifications even the almighty Lagos. Watch out.

And for Governors in the North where criminal elements have taken over the nooks and crannies of their domains, killing , maiming , raping and burning at will, they need to pocket their pride and visit Enugu for tutorial.

With Gov. Mbah, there is hope of good leadership in Nigeria .

Owolabi Olabode

Let's imbibe spirit of oneness- Fedpoly Ede Rector

The Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State , Engr Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, fnse has charged the Polytechnic Community to always imbibe the spirit of oneness.

He made the remarks during the official unveiling of the Christian Central Board, The Federal Polytechnic Ede on Thursday, 4th December, 2025

Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya also used the occasion to eulogize the sterling qualities of the immediate past Chaplain of the institution, Dr. Ayodeji Adebesin, for his selfless service not only to the Christian Community but the entire Polytechnic Community

He said,'' I must commend the outgone Chaplain for his contribution in maintaining peace throughout his tenure, I, therefore, charge the new Chaplain to emulate his exemplary style".

The Rector also praised the immediate past executives of the Christian body of the institution for their foresight for the building of a befitting Chapel for the Polytechnic

Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya also thanked the outgone Chaplain for his selfless service for twenty five years as the Chaplain, he then advised the new Chaplain to put more energy and sustain the already existing peaceful co-existence among members of the Polytechnic Community, irrespective of religion, tribe and affiliation.

Earlier in his address, the immediate past Chaplain of the institution, Dr. Ayodeji Adebesin appreciated the Rector for his contribution in both cash and kind towards the building of the Chapel, he solicited for more support for his predecessor.

Pastor Dr. Adebesin also used the occasion to show his appreciation for the immediate past executives of the Christian body for their maximum support and pledged his assistance to the newly inaugurated executives whenever they need his assistance.

The outgone Chaplain, thereafter, introduced and handed over the new Chaplain of the Polytechnic, Pastor Dr. Hezekiah Olalekan Olaleye and the new executives to the Rector

Present at the occasion were:
*Rector, Engr Dr. Sani Man Yahaya
*Deputy Rector, Academics, Alhaji Isiaka Lawal
*Deputy Rector, Administration, Dr. Adeoye Ileladewa
*Registrar, Alhaji Sanusi Ayantoye Rafiu
*Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Muftau Akorede Diyaolu
*Bursar, Alhaja (Mrs) Sade Aishat Adebayo
*Director, Physical Planning, Arc. Kayode Lawal
*Principal Private Secretary to the Rector, Mr Adolphus Adamu
*Ag. Director, Information, Protocol and Public Relations, Sola Lawal.

Federal Polytechnic Ede Emerges Best Polytechnic in Research and Development 2025

.....shines at TETFAIR and ASIP Innovation Programmes

The Federal Polytechnic Ede, Osun State, on Thursday in Abuja recorded yet another historic milestone, sweeping top honours at two national innovation programmes, clinching the prestigious title of Best Polytechnic in Research and Development of the Year 2025, at this year's editions of Alliance for Innovative Research (TETFAIR) and the Academic Staff Incubation Programme (ASIP)

The two flagship initiatives are being funded by TETFund with technical support from Innov8 Hub.

This remarkable achievement has profoundly positioned the citadel
as one of Nigeria’s fastest-rising hubs for research excellence and technological innovation.

A statement by the Institution's Acting Director, Information, Protocol and Public Relations, Sola Lawal, and made available to newsmen on Friday said the Polytechnic delivered an outstanding performance at the two events.

According to the statement, Powermantech Team Wins TETFAIR Market Validation Champion Nominated earlier in March 2025, the team, which comprises Mr. Saka Lukman Ayinde, Mr. Goodness Oreoluwa Edaogbogun, and Mrs. Ogunwusi Adebimbe Abosede are all from the Department of Physics and represented the Polytechnic among 11 innovators from higher institutions of learning across the country.

At the grand finale, the team emerged Market Validation Champion, securing the overall best position with their groundbreaking Smart IoT-Enabled Distribution Box. This innovation also earned the team a patent, marking the second successful patent recorded by the Polytechnic.

Also, the CoolTech Team from the institution emerged as ASIP 2025 Overall Pitch Champion, with impressive outing, the team was led by Dr. Ben Festus (Director of R&), Dr. Yusuf Taliat Ola (Director, Rector’s Office), and Mr. Oke Timothy (Department of Physics)

Both teams received their prizes, certificates, and patent awards from the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Arch. Sunday Echono, in the presence of other dignitaries, including:Dr. Salihu, Director of Research & Development, TETFundInnov8 Hub Management and Board Members Representatives of WIPO, NASENI, Rectors, as well as delegates from beneficiary institutions.

In the same vein, the Polytechnic, by evening of the same day won an institutional award as the Best Polytechnic in Research and Development of the year Award 2025 presented by the International association of research scholars and administrators (IARSA) at the Nigerian national merit award house, Maitaima Abuja.

Amb. Prof. Ogunsakin-Akin B, who represented the organizers hinted that the Federal Polytechnic, Ede has consistently demonstrated a dedication to fostering a vibrant research environment, impressive groundbreaking technologies, and successful collaborations with industry's national and international partners to enhance research capabilities and broaden its academic network, high-impact publications, facilitating collaborative projects and knowledge exchange.

He said,'' The institution's commitment to nurturing researchers and providing them with the resources and support necessary for success is truly commendable. Obviously, the Federal Polytechnic Ede's commitment to research and development serves as an inspiration to other institutions and individuals, and we are confident that its continued effort will lead to further breakthroughs and advancements in the future".

Meanwhile, Dr Taliat OlaYusuf, Director, Office of the Rector stood in for Rector, Engr Dr Sani Man Yahaya, alongside two other members of management, they are:

Dr Thompson Ojo - Director, Academic Planning.

Dr. Ben Festus - Director Research and Development.

Alhaji Sarafa Adiat Adigun. - Director Innovation and Commercialization.

Abiodun’s renewed security strategy amidst rising banditry







Femi Ogbonnikan







The current escalating insecurity in the country is not only alarming but also calls for an urgent action from the government. At this critical juncture in our national development effort, governments at all levels (local, state and Federal) can no longer sit back and watch the growing trend of banditry, terrorism and kidnapping. It has become an existential threat that requires effective collaboration of all the stakeholders, including the citizens. To be safe, citizens too must contribute to intelligence gathering and timely release of information that can help to prevent attack of bandits or kidnappers who now see ransom-taking as a lucrative business. Everybody’s vigilance can go a long way to ward off criminal elements in our midst before they wreak havoc. They are not invincible, they are cowards.

The manner of attack by bandits and their surreptitious movement show that they are weak, cowardly, and callous. And this, of course, cuts to the heart of the psychology behind their asymmetric warfare. It shows the classic tactics of a force that knows it cannot win a direct, conventional engagement, so it resorts to terror to project power it does not actually possess.

In military strategy, a force that hides, moves only at night, or relies entirely on ambush tactics often does so because it lacks the capacity to hold ground. Bandits engage in asymmetric warfare because they know they are numerically or technologically inferior to state security forces. Their stealth is an admission that they cannot sustain a prolonged battle. If they were strong, they would occupy territory openly. Instead, they strike and run, which is a tactical admission of fragility.

True courage is often defined by facing a challenge where the odds are equal or against you, usually to protect others. Banditry is the exact opposite. Bandits almost exclusively target soft targets—unarmed civilians, travelers, or isolated villages—rather than hard targets like fortified military bases. Lying in wait to attack someone who is unprepared is the definition of a cowardly act. It relies on the victim’s vulnerability rather than the attacker’s skill. By disrupting livelihoods, farming, trade and instilling fear in entire communities, bandits show a total lack of empathy for human suffering.

When kidnapping or looting is involved, they reduce human life to a mere commodity or transaction. This detachment requires a profound hardening of the heart. As human beings like us, their tactics is to latch on the security loopholes in our communities to launch their attacks. We can contain them, if we all volunteer to be a part of community policing. Community policing means taking ownership of the security arrangement around us. It is practically impossible to have security personnel in every corner of the country. But when we all see security as our collective responsibility and ready to work with the police, the task of protecting our lives and property would become easier to handle. As it is often said, if you see something, you must say something.

On the part of the government, there is a need for a review of approach to security matters in our nation. Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in his quick response to the security concern on Monday, November 24, 2025 held an urgent meeting with security chiefs in the state to review the current security landscape and assess emerging issues at both the state and national levels. The meeting, held in Iperu, his home town, focused on strengthening coordination among security agencies and sustaining the state’s reputation as one of the most peaceful in Nigeria.

Stressing the need for proactive measures to tackling the rising security challenge during the engagement, the governor noted that the best time to prepare for war is during a period of peace. This, he said, was necessary to sustain the Ogun State reputation as a peaceful and stable environment. He explained that maintaining this position requires proactive planning, consistent evaluation, and the implementation of measures designed to prevent threats before they arise. While similar meetings have been held in the past, he described Monday’s session as particularly crucial in reinforcing the state’s collective readiness.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with security agencies to preserve peace, enhance public safety, and ensure that Ogun State remains secure for residents, investors, and visitors.

Additionally, Abiodun assured that a robust security arrangement would be put in place to secure the state against the spiraling spate of banditry, terrorism and other heinous crimes in some parts of the country. He disclosed that the state government would soon begin the documentation of all undocumented foreign nationals working with multinational companies operating in the state. According to him, new non-indigenes entering the state for the first time would undergo proper screening by their community leaders to ensure they are not used to orchestrate violence, stressing that government must know their purpose and means of livelihood.

Addressing journalists at Iperu after a security meeting, Governor Abiodun said the measures formed part of proactive steps to safeguard lives and property across the state. He revealed that about 70 foreigners, mostly from Niger Republic, Sudan and Chad, had been arrested in recent days after failing to provide clear explanations for their presence in the State. “The law enforcement agencies have arrested, within the last three to four days, about 70 persons from Chad and Sudan who cannot even speak English and cannot explain what they are doing here.

We are going to process these individuals with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). We will also be calling on our non-indigene communities to be more vigilant so that we know who is here and why they are here,” he said.

The governor further expressed concern over the activities of scavengers, noting that they had become a security threat to communities in the state. “We discussed the issue of scavengers who have become more of a threat. Law enforcement agencies will pay particular attention to them. We will engage them to ensure they are not being used to perpetrate crimes in the state,” he added.

Prince Abiodun emphasized the need to extra vigilance to contain the rising wave of insecurity in the country, noting that as Nigeria’s industrial capital, Ogun receives more than five million daily commuters, making it crucial for government to maintain close watch on criminal elements. Accordingly, he directed the police to immediately move into areas such as “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode and similar enclaves across the state and clear them out, warning that properties used by criminals would henceforth be seized by the government.

Speaking on the recent incident at Ajebo in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, the governor noted that security officers had visited the settlement to verify that its occupants pose no threat. He also assured that the state’s forest reserves would be thoroughly combed to prevent criminals from using them as hideouts.

Referencing the concern trends in the mining sub-sector, Governor Abiodun said the government was aware that some miners operate as miscreants, and working with security agencies to flush out criminals from mining sites and forest reserves. He appealed to residents to actively support community policing efforts by providing credible information to security agencies. “Security is not the responsibility of security agents alone. We must work with them. We must report anything suspicious so law enforcement can respond promptly. We must be observant and be our brother’s keeper,” he said.

He also assured that his administration would continue to provide the necessary logistics to security agencies and cautioned Obas and Baales against allocating government land to strangers, warning that any traditional ruler found culpable would be held accountable for undermining the state’s interest. He commended security agencies for their cooperation and synergy, which he said, had contributed significantly to the peace Ogun State currently enjoys.

The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for stabilizing the economy as well as his swift response to the new emerging security situation in the country, leading to the rescue of kidnapped victims in Niger and Kwara states.

Complementary to the effort of President Tinubu, security also topped the agenda of the South West Governors’ Forum at a meeting held on Monday, November 24, 2025, at the Governor's Office, Secretariat, Ibadan, Oyo State capital. Other than security, there was equally an extensive deliberation on various issues, including agriculture, economic and regional development. The Forum’s resolutions formed part of the broader approach to the new security challenge confronting the nation. While the governors commended Mr. President for his economic reforms and other developmental agenda, they also pledged their support in the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping. They particularly expressed solidarity with the Federal Government in its efforts in Kebbi, Kwara and Niger States after the recent spate of kidnappings, at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga town, the Catholic institution of St. Mary's in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger and the CAC Church at Eruku, Kwara State.

The meeting holds major significance as it resulted in concrete, unified, and technology-driven decisions aimed at tackling the region's escalating security challenges and strengthening regional integration. ​The key significance lies in the creation of new joint mechanisms to secure the region and the renewed, urgent call for State Police.

​The core of the meeting's significance was the approval of a new regional security architecture in response to rising incidents of banditry, kidnapping, and illegal mining. Their renewed demand for state police underscores the imperative of a review of the current security architecture. The governors collectively reaffirmed their long-standing support for the establishment of State Police, declaring that "The Time is Now" and the reform can no longer be delayed. This is a powerful, unified position aimed at pressuring the Federal Government to decentralize policing.

​They also agreed to set up a dedicated South West Security Fund under the DAWN Commission, to be overseen by the Special Advisers on Security from all six states. This provides a sustainable, regional financial mechanism to fund security operations and technology.

​The Forum resolved to establish a live, digital intelligence-sharing platform across all six states (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti). This platform will coordinate threat notifications and incident logs, traveller and cargo alerts and ​state-to-state rapid response.

​The governors called on the Federal Government to secure the vast forest belts used as hideouts by criminals and agreed to deploy Forest Guards with states providing personnel to reclaim these spaces from bandits and kidnappers.

They expressed deep concern over illegal mining, which threatens regional security and environment, calling for strict licensing and enforcement. They equally agreed to intensify collaboration to monitor unregulated interstate migration to prevent it from becoming a conduit for insecurity, calling for collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).

​Beyond security, the meeting reaffirmed the region’s commitment to collaborative economic development and integration. The governors commended farmers for their efforts in agricultural output and reiterated the need for regional collaboration to curb food inflation.

​For regional cooperation, they welcomed the establishment of the South West Development Commission (SWDC) and praised the efforts of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Commission) in promoting integration.

​In essence, the Ibadan meeting shifted the Forum's focus from mere discussion to the implementation of actionable, integrated security measures backed by a dedicated fund and a digital coordination system, while collectively re-emphasizing the critical need for State Police to secure the South West region.

Properly implemented, these measures will complement the renewed effort of Governor Abiodun to make Ogun State a secure environment for all residents. We all must support the administration in our collective interest.









Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Ogun State Governor on Media

Insecurity: Eternal Vigilance As Best Panacea, The Ogun Example

By Olaniyi Ajibola

The third American President, Thomas Jefferson, in recognition of the indispensability of consciousness at all times posited,'' The cost of freedom is eternal Vigilance". As one of the 5-man committee that drafted the Declaration of Independence for America in the year 1776 at the age of 33, Jefferson must have had satisfactory knowledge about the necessity of vigilance in the quest for freedom from shackles.

At present, Nigeria is under the shackles of insecurity, which is posing profound existential threat to the corporate entity, especially in the Northern part, with the surge of terrorism and banditry ravaging the region and portending a great danger to the rest of the country.

Meanwhile, it is a general knowledge that Ogun State remains the Gateway to Nigeria in all areas, from being the industrial capital of the most populous black nation in the world to being a transit state that connects every part of the country and the only neighbour of Lagos, the financial nerve centre of Nigeria.

According to experts, between 5 million and 6 million people visit the state on daily basis, making the State very vulnerable and densely populated with this level of influx of people of different backgrounds and orientations.

It is against this backdrop that the Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who doubles as the Chief Security Officer of the State in his usual manner rose to the occasion and swiftly moved to nip any unpleasant incident in the bud.

Of course, great thinkers conclude that,''The greatest litmus test of a great leader is ability to recognise problem before it becomes an emergency". This thought indeed speaks to the leadership style of Governor Dapo Abiodun since he assumed office as Governor, moving proactively ahead of every situation and remains perpetually on top of it at all time.

The Governor, on Monday called the meeting of heads of security agencies and other critical stakeholders alike, to deliberate on topical issues of concerns in the state's security architecture, to fine-tune appropriate steps to be taken towards securing the state.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, at the end of the extensive deliberations assured residents of the state that an all-inclusive security arrangement would be put in place to secure the state in view of the recent threat, noting that the state government will begin the documentation of all undocumented foreign nationals working with multinational companies operating in the state.

He also said new non-indigenes entering the state for the first time would undergo proper screening by their community leaders to ensure they are not used to orchestrate violence, stressing that government must know their purpose and means of livelihood.

To show the world that the state is practically in control of its security architecture, the Governor informed journalists at the briefing that about 70 foreigners, mostly from Niger Republic, Sudan, Mali and Chad, had been arrested in recent days after failing to provide clear explanations for their presence in the State.

Governor Abiodun said,'' The law enforcement agencies have arrested, within the last three to four days, about 70 persons from Chad and Sudan who cannot even speak English and cannot explain what they are doing here.
We are going to profile these individuals with the Nigeria Immigration Service.
We will also be calling on our non-indigene communities to be more vigilant so that we know who is here and why they are here.

Speaking specifically about shanties around the state which have allegedly become hideouts for criminals, the Governor directed police to immediately move into areas such as “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode and similar areas across the state and clear them out, warning that properties used by criminals would henceforth be seized by the government.

The helmsman addressed the recent incident at Ajebo in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area, as he assured the people of the state that security officers had visited the settlement to verify that its occupants pose no threat. He also assured that the state’s forest reserves would be thoroughly secured to prevent criminals from using them as hideouts.

Among areas of security concerns discussed at the meeting according to the Governor was the nefarious activities of the scrap dealers and scavengers. There are plethora of video evidence and eye witnesses' accounts across Nigeria on how these scrap dealers perpetrate heinous acts in different communities, making them highly dangerous to the society.

Addressing this menace, the Governor said security agents would properly monitor their activities and engage them to ascertain individuals among them who may be aiding criminal networks.

''We discussed the issue of scavengers who have become more of a threat. Law enforcement agencies will pay particular attention to them. We will engage them to ensure they are not being used to perpetrate crimes in the state".

In the same vein, the Governor spoke about the scourge of illegal mining in the state, saying that the government is aware that some miners operate as miscreants, and that the government is working with security agencies to flush out criminals from mining sites and forest reserves, he then appealed to residents to actively support community policing efforts by providing credible information to security agencies.

“Security is not the responsibility of security agents alone. We must work with them. We must report anything suspicious so law enforcement agents can respond promptly. We must be observant and be our brother’s keeper,” he said.

As a responsive and responsible leader, Governor Abiodun assured security agencies operating in the state of adequate supports in all areas of intervention, especially logistics as he has been doing.

The briefing would not have been comprehensively delivered without touching on the excesses and abuse of power by traditional rulers in their domains, who were fond of allocating government lands to strangers thereby undermining the state's security architecture and making the state vulnerable, warning that whoever caught in the act would be held accountable in the face of law.

The commendation Governor Dapo Abiodun gave the hunters in the state was inspiring and encouraging, it reflected the innate knowledge of a leader who understands the place of community policing in national security arrangement.

Governor Dapo Abiodun glowingly praised Ogun hunters for their patriotism and consistency in flushing out criminal elements from forests across the state and their significant contributions to the peace and tranquility in the State.

The Governor concluded his briefing by eulogising the synergy among security agencies working in the state, as he applauded the swift and proactive response of President Bola Tinubu to array of security challenges facing the nation presently, as well as the brilliant way he has stabilized the economy.

All in all, Governor Dapo Abiodun has shown responsible leadership and capacity to be at the fore-front leading his people with vision , at the middle inspiring them with passion and at the back defending them with courage.

Kudos Omo Baba Teacher!

Ajibola is a Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Strategic Communications

Insecurity: Remove age barrier on recruitment of security agents- ADAPHAI tells FG

A Civil Society Organisation working on peace advocacy in Nigeria, Advocacy for Advancement of Peace &Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI) has urged the Federal Government to henceforth remove age barrier in the recruitment process of security agents, considering the present security challenge in the country.

ADAPHAI argued that several individuals with requisite zeal, capacity and patriotism to contribute substantially in the fight against insecurity have been denied the opportunity as a result of the policy of age barrier.

This was contained in a statement signed by the National Coordinator of the organisation, Comrade Sulaimon Suberu on Monday in Abuja, against the backdrop of the recent surge in criminal activities of insurgents and bandits in the Northern part of Nigeria.

The statement noted that the Federal Government must quickly look inward and change it's policies on internal security for better outcome adding that doing the same thing in the same way always end up in failure.

According to the statement, the methodology of engagement in internal security arrangement must not be static but dynamic in all ramifications because of the evolving global environment, especially with the advent of internet which has made the world a global enclave.

It further suggested the need to strengthen Forest Guard and decentralise it across all the states of the federation to entrench sanity in forests across Nigeria and immediately stop criminal activities.

The statement read,'' It is now expedient for the Federal Government to immediately direct all the security agencies to as a matter of importance remove the age barrier clause from their recruitment process and allow all Nigerians who are willing and fit to serve the county to do so.

"Obviously, our organisation through comprehensive investigation has discovered that there are many Nigerians with necessary capacity, zeal, integrity and bravery to serve in various security formations in Nigeria who have been denied the opportunity as a result of this age barrier.

"Sincerely, the present security situation in Nigeria does not give room for such consideration, we can not continue to do the same thing in the same way and expect different results. How has this illogical age barrier helped us to solve our security quagmire?

"In the same vein, the Federal Government must quickly restructure Forest Guard and decentralise it by giving the sub-national governments powers to establish Forest Guards in their domains and arm then with assault rifles to quickly stop various criminal activities in forests across Nigeria".

Abiodun mourns Segun Awolowo


Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the passing of Mr Olusegun Awolowo Jr., grandson of former Nigerian nationalist, and statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as a deeply profound personal loss.


Abiodun, who described the lawyer and ex- executive director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council, as a gentleman par excellence, voice of courage and consummate public servant, at 62 as a deeply shocking incident, said he received news of his passing with utter disbelief, but will however treasure memories of his acquaintance.


He said that to all who knew him, Mr Segun Awolowo was affable, highly intelligent, extremely affable and easy going, adding that he will be sorely missed.


He said: "It is extremely hard to process the news that Segun Awolowo Jr. is gone, but we submit unreservedly to the decision of the Almighty God, who has called him into His bosom.

"We are deeply heartbroken, but we will take consolation in the exemplary great lessons his life taught us, for he was such a jolly good fellow.

"Born two months after his father's death, Awolowo Jr. was acquainted with grief from childhood, but he rose above the challenges and became an icon in his own right.

" After Awolowo working with the law firm of Abayomi Sogbesan & Co. and also with the law firm of GOK Ajayi & Co. after his call to bar in December 1989, he served in President Olusegun Obasanjo's administration as a Special Assistant on Traditional Institutions, Legal Due Diligence and Legal Matters.

" His record as Special Assistant to President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua and as Secretary for Social Development and Secretary of Transport from 2007 to 2011 executive director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council from 2013 to 2021, was unblemished.

"He gave his best in advancing the fortunes of Nigeria, and it was not by accident that he was, in July 2021, he was unanimously elected as the President of National Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs) from ECOWAS member States.


"His earthly sojourn may have been brief, but it was hugely impactful. I commiserate with his dear wife and children, the Awolowo family, and Nigerians in general. May his gentle soul rest in sweet repose."

Roads: Abiodun’s critics are drowning in their politics


By Seyi Bakare

IF a lie journeys for 20 years, truth will catch up with it in just a day, so says the Yoruba people of Nigeria’s South-West. And that aptly captures the situation in Ogun State where, despite ceaseless onslaughts sponsored by dark forces, the achievements of the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, continue to dwarf the noise of naysayers.

From deep ports to airports, and from rail to road, the Iperu-born Prince continues to record landmarks that establish the Gateway State as Nigeria’s top investment destination. FInheriting a state in which propaganda often overshadowed the provision of infrastructure, Abiodun had his work uncannily cut out for him—bad roads everywhere, chaotic transport infrastructure, a health sector in crisis and an education sector clearly comatose--and it did not help that the same forces who left vast swathes of the state in a state of disrepair for so long were always intent to incite the public and pile their failures on his government using hack and hired writers. They never wanted him, and they loaded the public space with bile against his person and his office.



Instructively, though, in the last six years, hardly a day has passed without stories or videos of road construction in Ogun State. The Abiodun government has taken over the reconstruction of federal roads time and again. The situation he inherited was so gross; it was as if there was no government in place before he came on board. But instead of trading in blames, he took the bull by the horns. He held town hall meetings with stakeholders in each of the three senatorial zones and asked them to list roads they wanted attention on based on priority needs. The demands were daunting, even overwhelming, but even in the first 100 days his intent to reconstruct those roads had become sufficiently clear. He built road after road in various communities, often without fanfare, but blackmail over federal roads, roads which Ogun has more than any of the 36 states, festered anew.



Among others, the road linking the Sagamu Interchange to Abeokuta was in a very deplorable state; it took two hours to reach Abeokuta. The place became a spot for accidents because of the lorries bulldozing their way through. Abiodun reconstructed the road, made it a double lane, and put in place all the necessary furniture. Now instead of two hours, it takes just 20 minutes to reach Abeokuta. Road users rejoiced but the naysayers went haywire: they announced that Abiodun had done nothing even while enjoying the pleasant trip to Abeokuta, their blindness an article of faith. For four years running now, the road has remained in good shape; except for the thieves that stole traffic lights. The Epe Mojoda road and many other roads critical to Ogun interest have been built. The Atan-Agbara-Lusada road was in a very deplorable state, and some residents wanted to relocate. Despite the road being federal, Dapo moved there and started work. Go there and see things for yourself.



Nigerians will recall the sad case of the Abeokuta-Sango Ota road where the then Works Minister, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), refused Governor Abiodun taking over. Still, the governor did palliative works there. Of course, people do not readily separate federal from state roads, which require strict procedure to work on. If you don’t have federal permission, you are on your own. Thanks to President Bola Tinubu that allowed Ogun to attend to the Abeokuta-Sango Ota road that has been a nightmare for a long time.


Abiodun promised to spread development across the state, so that all the 20 LGs will have a feel of government presence, and he has done excellently well on that pledge. But of late, somebody held surreptitious meetings with a group of mercenaries and started de-marketing the governor, saying that all roads in Ogun are bad. The intent is to erase all the good things he has done just because of politics.



But falsehood cannot overcome truth, and what the people see is what they see. People living in Magboro now heave a sigh of relief because the road there will stand the test of time. In the next 20-30 years, there will probably be no need for reconstruction. People living in Arepo are happy. Those in Ajuwon, akute and other areas are happy. These places use to be eyesores Many places in Ijebu Ode, Ijebu Igbo and Ilaro were just like that. The chief blackmailer does not want people to see these: he hired disgruntled hacks to go to areas with bad roads and start posting them on the internet. A 'pastor' even promised to lead a vanguard against bad roads.



What happened to the roads before Dapo came into Oke Mosan? If those roads had been well built, how did they suddenly degenerate to their present level? Abiodun’s predecessor was busy demolishing houses everywhere–Mowe, Ibafo, Alagbole, Ilaro, etc--saying that he wanted to create 16-lane roads. But it was a hoax. Yet the critics are laser-focused on the man working day and night to address the years of failure and
ensure that Ogun becomes a centre of excellence, a place of pride for investors. People are now trooping into Ogun to work and live. There is peace and stability. But the naysayers are bad, sad and mad. They believe that in the history of Ogun State, no governor has ever had stability. These evil ones barraged Segun Osoba, and the same Gbenga Daniel who is now throwing stones at Abiodun and his government had a second term that was like hell on earth. Lawmakers’ nudes were published. Political violence was rife. And when Ibikunle Amosun came, it was the same scenario.




Now, 18 months to the end of Abiodun’s tenure, there is peace and stability and the destabilizers are not happy. They believe that he must be distracted. It behooves the people of Ogun State to stop them in their tracks.

They cry day and night that Abiodun has done nothing, yet Ogun now targets 500bn in IGR and recording an influx of industries. The Abiodun government is working simultaneously working on four major highways around Ifo, Sango and Idiroko axis alone, and is fixing the Lagos-Abeokuta expressway. Abiodun has grown Ogun's GDP from N3.5 trillion to N16 trillion, built over 1,500 kilometres of roads; built an airport that is truly world class; and signed partnerships with many investors, including the Chinese energy firm, CteeC, to build power infrastructure and an industrial parks. He is extending the Lagos State Red and Blue Rail Lines to Ogun, he has exponentially increased the production of rice, maize, and cassava; massively increased primary school enrolment, and upgraded healthcare facilities.



Since the critics harp on roads, then let’s list just a few out of the many that the Abiodun administration has done. In Ogun Central alone, they should go see the Idi–Aba–Elite–One Lantoro Road , Bayo Oju–Ejigbo–Ijeun–Ake Road, Flyover Bridge at Kuto, Lafenwa Rounder–Ayetoro Road (First Phase), Olomore–Sanni Road, Elega–Mokola Bridge Entrance; Ake–Ilupeju–Ago–Ika , measuring 0.4419 kilometres, Obantoko Road (Fajol–American Junction–Unity Estate–Gbonagun; Somorin–Kemta–Idi Aba Road, Abeokuta–Sagamu Expressway, the City Gate Monument Development, Panseke–Adigbe Road, aArepo Road, Siun–Owode Road, Ofada Road, Kuforiji Olubi–Quarry Road, Iyana Oloke Junction to MAPOLY School Gate, Laderin–Train Station–School Gate Road — all completed. Again, there are the Ifo–Tajudeen Adeniran/Olose Titun–Visin Road; Old Bank Road , Olusosun Osoba Town–Agbado Road, Sango–Ota–Oke Aro–Ojodu Abiodun Road, Akute–Denro–Shasha Road, Ajayi Kosoko Street, Ojodu–Abiodun; and the Inner Roads at Itori Junction.



In Ogun East, we have the 3-kilometre Awujale Road, the Ijebu Ode–Epe/Sagamu Bridge Interchange Flyover Bridge, Molipa/Fusigboye/Ayegun/Ofosa Road, and Asafa Oke / Asafa Isale / Ofosa Street. Other roads include Molipa Expressway (Igbeba Garage–Ijebu Ode), Ejirin/Ososa/Igbogun Road, Ayegbami–Olu IGA Streets, Onijogbo–Olia–Saka Asiru–Ijebu Ode Road, Abeokuta Road–Omilowo–New Road, and Ijebu Ode Club Road; Ijebu Ode–Mojoda Expressway and Erunwon–Idowa–Awa–Ibefun–Itokin Road. What about Oru–Awa–Ilaporu–Ibadan Express Road; Igan Road, Ikenne–Ilisan–Ago Iwoye Road, internal road of OGU, Ago Iwoye, Molusi College Road in Ijebu Igbo, and Martin Ikoye Street, Ago Iwoye (1.5 km), Erunwon–Atan Road, Esure–Ijebu Mushin Road, Ogere/Amotekun Base to Orita Imobi Road, Togburin–Agodo–Togura Road (6.1 km), Ibiade/Old Garage Roundabout–LGA Secretariat–Efire–Ijunction Road and Orita Aja–Ibiade–Ipokin Road?

In Sagamu, major roads completed include Oba Erinwole Road, Sagamu Junction–Papalanto Road, Sagamu–Ikenne Road, GRA Road, Hospital Road, Bishop Fashina Baruwa Street, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital Access Road, Aregbale Road, Olumele/Sote Road, Makun, and Hospital Road, Ogijo . In Ikenne, completed roads include Idarika Street Road, Olabisi Onabanjo Road, Araromi/Sokoto Street Road), Iregun/Ita Osikilu/Ilisa Road, Ilisan Market Road, Iperu Roundabout–Ode Phase 2, Oju Ale Road, Ilisan–Ilara Road, Awolowo Road, Ilisan Roundabout–Babcock University Road, and Babcock Road. In Remo North, the Orile Oko Road has been completed, while in Ogun West, projects include the Ikola/Navy/Osi Ikola Road, RAY Power Road, Singer–Toll Gate Road, Joju Road, Sango, Igbesa–Ehila Road (4.5 km), and GRA Road, Ota. In Yewa North, go see the Imasai–Igan Okoto–Ayetoro Road, while in Imeko Afon, the Oke–Ola Road, Imeko is there. In Ipokia, the Ilaro–Koko–Alari Road has also been completed and commissioned and in Yewa South, the Ilaro–Iwoye Road, Iwoye–Owoode–Yewa Road, Owode Yewa–Owode Junction, and the Oke–Erinja–Ibiri Road have all been completed and commissioned.



Governor Abiodun will not be deterred by devious politics. He will instead keep taking Ogun eagle to greater heights.

Bakare sent this piece through seyibakre@gmail.com

Senator Gbenga Daniel remains suspended from APC, says Ward 4 of Sagamu LG



The Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ward 4, Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State, has declared that the suspension of the senator representing Ogun East in the National Assembly, Gbenga Daniel, remains in effect.


The committee, which made this declaration in a statement issued by the chairman of
APC Ward 4 in Sagamu Local Government
Ogun State, Hon. Adebayo Ismail and the Secretary, Hon. Durojaiye Oluwole, on Wednesday,said that going by the APC's Constitution, tthe National Working Committee (NWC) of the party cannot issue any directive to review, nullify, set aside, or reverse the valid suspension earlier imposed on Daniel by the appropriate party organs in Ogun State.




It, therefore, dismissed the press release issued by MJS Partners on behalf of Senator Daniel regarding a letter from the National Secretariat of the party dated 17 November, 2025.



It said that while it is not the intention of the ward to publicly engage non-members on issues concerning the party, it is considered imperative to clarify and restate the issues in contention.


It said that the communication made to NWC by the State Chapter was in relation to the suspension of Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, adding that the decision to suspend him was itself taken and communicated to the State Executive by the Ward Executive, so as to allow for thorough investigation of allegations made against the senator, which pertained to anti-party activities. This, it said, was after the senator failed to honour invitations extended to him to appear to defend the allegations.


The statement added that contrary to the assertion of the APC National Secretary, Sen. Surajudeen Bashiru contained, the initiation of disciplinary proceedings against a party member is, to use the exact words of the Party Constitution, the exclusive preserve of the "Executive Committee Concerned" which depending on the allegations made, may be any of the Executive Councils at the Ward, Local Government, State, Zonal or National levels.


It added that whilst Article 21(5)(vii) of the Constitution also grants the National Working Committee the power to suspend erring members, that power does not in itself abrogate that of the Executive Councils, nor does it subject their decisions at any level to the review of the National Working Committee.


It added: "On the contrary, the exercise by any Executive Council of its disciplinary power, inclusive of the power of suspension such as that made in relation to Senator Gbenga Daniel, is subject only to appeal as outlined in Article 21.4.

"Again, at the risk of repetition and for the purpose of emphasis, no provision of Article 21(4) subjects the decision to suspend the Senator to the overview of the National Working Committee.


"Consequent upon the foregoing, the directive contained in the letter of the National Secretary is misplaced and has no foundation in the Party's Constitution.

"The NWC cannot issue any directive to review, nullify, set aside, or reverse the valid suspension earlier imposed on Senator Otunba Olugbenga Daniel by the appropriate Party organs in Ogun State.


"While it may be conceded that Senator Otunba Olugbenga Daniel is yet to be expelled from the party, the fact of suspension, which remains unchallenged in accordance with the Party Constitution, brings a temporary halt to his rights, privileges and obligations in the party.



"This entire episode originated from the last general elections, when Senator Otunba Olugbenga Daniel acted in open defiance of the Party and engaged in actions inimical to the interest of the party and its candidates in Ogun State.


"Beyond the elections, he further attempted to obstruct and frustrate the course of justice during the Election Petitions Tribunal sittings by actions and interventions that were directly hostile to the interests of the APC and its candidates. These and many more are the unchallenged anti-party activities of the suspended senator.



"We therefore reaffirm that the suspension of Senator Otunba Olugbenga Daniel remains in full effect."


The statement said that the leadership of Ward 4 remained committed to upholding discipline, fairness, and due process within the party.

OGUN’S ROAD REVOLUTION: Hidden Realities, Hard Facts, and How One Governor is Rewriting a Decades-Old Story

Between Years of Federal Neglect and a Governor’s Relentless Infrastructure Rebirth

By Abimbola Doherty

Ogun State’s sprawling road network is finally receiving the attention it has long deserved—not because the deterioration is new, but because, for the first time in years, the state is experiencing a bold and methodical infrastructure renaissance under Governor Dapo Abiodun.

For decades, federal roads slicing through Ogun—Ota to Idi-Iroko, Sagamu to Abeokuta, Sagamu to Ore, Sagamu–Papalanto–Ilaro–Idi-Iroko, the Berger–Ondo axis, and the Oyo-border stretch—suffered chronic neglect. Yet Ogun arguably hosts the highest mileage of federal roads in Nigeria, a burden often overlooked in national discourse. Lagos, with fewer federal kilometres, consistently received faster and more frequent interventions.

One uncomfortable truth frequently lost in political debates is this: Abiodun inherited these roads at their worst. The decay was generational, but responsibility for a response fell squarely on his administration.

What followed—and continues—is a blend of political tact, fiscal innovation, intergovernmental diplomacy, and a refusal to succumb to the politics of blame.

Following countless attacks on the Dapo Abiodun-administration on social media platforms and by political adversaries, I took a tour round the state, and also obtained a copy of the data containing the projects that are being executed by the government from the Ministry of Works. In this piece, some of the efforts of the administration have been highlighted. This, I believe, will provide insight into the myth surrounding road infrastructure in Ogun State, and also set the record straight for a disinformed populace.

Despite being Nigeria’s most industrialised subnational hub and Lagos’s economic hinterland, federal investment in Ogun’s road infrastructure remained shockingly inadequate. Even after Governors Dapo Abiodun and Babajide Sanwo-Olu jointly requested urgent reconstruction of the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway, the proposal stalled at the Ministry of Works under Babatunde Fashola.

With the project frozen, Ogun faced a difficult decision: watch the roads collapse or intervene on federal assets outside its legal jurisdiction.

Abiodun chose action. He deployed palliative works, stabilised critical sections, and sustained pressure on Abuja until President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu graciously conceded major parts of the reconstruction. This persistence led to the landmark award of the Papalanto–Sagamu Interchange to Dangote Industries—an industrial logistics game-changer.

The Ijebu-Ode–Epe–Majoda Breakthrough: A New Gateway for Ogun

Perhaps the most transformative intervention under Abiodun is the Ijebu-Ode–Epe–Majoda Road. As reported by Punch, its completion created a reliable alternative to Lagos routes, deepened market access, and significantly boosted investor confidence.

In his widely circulated commentary, Seyi Bakare described Ogun under Abiodun as a “construction site”, where roads are no longer political rhetoric but economic enablers intentionally linked to commerce, industrial growth, and improved mobility.


Magboro–Makogi: A Model for Community-Centred Development

Once crippled by seasonal flooding and near-impassable during rainy periods, the Magboro–Makogi Road is being rebuilt with concrete interlocking blocks—a terrain-responsive solution solicited directly by residents.

Community leaders, including Uche Okoro and Alhaji Wasiu Sanusi, commended the state for choosing a sustainable model instead of the usual temporary fixes. The Commissioner for Works, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, accelerated the project to optimise the dry-season window.

Columnist Funmi Branco highlighted Abiodun’s listening leadership, noting that many road projects under his administration emanate from community engagements rather than political expediency.


New Roads and Housing Estates: The Latest Approvals

Reflecting Ogun’s expanding industrial footprint and its growing population, the State Executive Council recently approved several strategic road projects and new housing units at its first meeting in the newly commissioned Exco Chambers, Abeokuta.

Newly Approved Roads

Miliki Junction – Bode Olude – Alhaji Sugar Avenue Road, Abeokuta North (1.05 km, 10 m width)

Paddy Arikawe Road, G.R.A Sagamu (3.39 km, 9 m width)

Itanrin–Sabo Road, Ijebu-Ode/Odogbolu (5.0 km, 10 m width)


Newly Approved Housing Units

Twenty-six duplexes at Ogun State Housing Corporation, Ibara, Abeokuta

Nine duplexes at HID Estate (Iseya Court), Obasanjo Hilltop, Abeokuta


The council also ratified new traditional councils and approved appointments of traditional rulers across multiple LGAs, reinforcing administrative stability alongside infrastructural expansion.


Ongoing Asphalt Laying on Alagbole–Akute Road

As of Sunday, 16 November 2025, sweeping, priming, and asphalt overlay had been completed on major stretches of the Alagbole–Akute Road. About 700 metres of asphalt were laid in a single day, with full completion of the 2.68 km stretch projected for the following day.

Road marking will follow immediately to enhance safety. Once fully reopened, this vital corridor will ease congestion and stimulate daily commercial activity.


Abiodun: “We Will Complete Akute–Ijoko Road Soon”

During a recent inspection, Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his resolve to complete the 20 km Akute–Ijoko arterial road, describing it as one of the state’s most significant inter-zone connectors.

He criticised the previous administration’s haphazard interventions, which worsened the road’s condition, and emphasised that his administration adopted a phased and engineering-driven approach.

“This road is almost 20 kilometres long—20 kilometres of dual carriageway, which means 40 kilometres with drainage. By His grace, we will finish this road,” he said.

Residents expressed gratitude during the inspection—a testament, the governor noted, that governance must remain people-driven.


Major Roads Completed by the Abiodun Administration

Abeokuta & Ogun Central

Idi-Aba–Elite–One Lantoro Road (2 km)

Bayo Oju–Ejigbo–Ijeun–Ake Road (1.42 km)

Olomore–Sanni Road (3.41 km)

Lafenwa Rounder–Ayetoro Road (6.5 km, Phase I)

Somorin–Kemta–Idi-Aba Road (5.7 km)

Obantoko Road (7.5 km)

Kuto Flyover & Interchange

Elega–Mokola Bridge Entrance


Ijebu-Ode & Ogun East

Sixteen completed urban roads

Molipa/Fusigboye/Ayegun/Ofosa Road (3.1 km)

Molipa Expressway (3.2 km)

Oru–Awa–Ilaporu–Ibadan Road (7.1 km)


Ado-Odo/Ota & Ogun West

Ikola/Navy/Osi–Ikola Road

Singer–Toll Gate Road

Completed phases of Atan–Lusada–Agbara Road

Palliative works on Sango–Idi-Iroko and Sango–Ota–Abeokuta corridors


Major Roads Currently Under Construction

Federal & Inter-State Arteries

Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway (50% completed)

Papalanto–Sagamu Interchange (Dangote-led)

Sango–Idi-Iroko Highway

Sagamu–Abeokuta–Papalanto Corridor


Inner-City & Community Roads

Magboro–Makogi Road (8.17 km)

Alagbole–Ajuwon–Akute Road (3.25 km)

Sango–Ijoko–Agbado–Oke Aro–Lambe–Akute Corridor (~30 km)

Atan–Lusada–Makogi Toll Road (19.2 km)

Igbeba–Eid Ground Road

Imoro–Imegun–Opopo Road

Odelewu–Ladeshi–Ishiwo Road


Campaigns of Calumny and the Politics of Perception

Despite obvious progress, certain opposition actors continue to circulate images of collapsed federal roads to push narratives of state-level neglect. Many of these failed roads predate Abiodun by decades and remain federal responsibilities.

As Funmi Branco noted in one of his essays, this is “a deliberate distortion of truth”. While critics weaponise federal liabilities, Abiodun continues to intervene—responsibly and strategically—where Abuja has failed.


A Governor, His Reputation, and the Facts That Matter

From over 1,000 kilometres of completed or rehabilitated roads—with some assessments putting the figure above 1,500 km—to new housing estates, intercity links, industrial corridors, and urban regeneration projects, Ogun State is experiencing its most deliberate infrastructure renewal in decades.

The roads exist.
The communities feel them.
The economy reflects them.

In a state long disadvantaged by federal neglect, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s infrastructure drive is not just governance—it is a reclamation of dignity, opportunity, and the future prosperity of the Gateway State.

Doherty , a public analyst , sent this piece through abimbhorty@ aol.com