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UBA’s LEO Becomes Africa’s First Chatbot to Power Cross-Border Payments

Banking

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July 16, 2025

UBA’s LEO Becomes Africa’s First Chatbot to Power Cross-Border Payments

United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has taken a bold leap in African financial innovation with the announcement that its AI-powered chatbot, LEO, is now capable of facilitating cross-border payment transactions, making it the first chatbot on the continent to enable such service.

According to a press briefing by the bank’s leadership, the integration of cross-border functionality into LEO was achieved through the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), developed in collaboration with the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim Bank). This new feature allows individuals, traders, and corporates to send and receive funds in local currencies between African countries where PAPSS operations have been approved by the respective Central Banks.

Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of UBA, Oliver Alawuba, emphasized the strategic importance of the milestone, “The introduction of cross-border payments on LEO, in partnership with PAPSS, reflects our commitment to digital innovation, Pan-African integration, and customer-centric banking. This is not just a banking upgrade; it is a bold leap into the future of African finance.”

The service is designed to simplify intra-African financial transactions by offering near-instant transfers via self-service platforms such as LEO, while significantly reducing transaction fees. According to UBA, no charges will be applied to recipients of the payments, and the service is designed for 24/7 availability.

Providing more insight into the operational benefits, Group Head, Retail and Digital Banking, Shamsideen Fasola, highlighted:

“This is a transformative step in Africa’s financial services landscape. With LEO now fully integrated with the PAPSS infrastructure, UBA customers can send and receive money across African borders in their local currencies within seconds. We’re not just simplifying transactions – we’re fostering intra-African trade and breaking down longstanding barriers to financial inclusion.”

The development aligns with the broader objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to deepen regional trade and economic integration. By supporting quick, secure, and local-currency transactions, UBA’s chatbot innovation is expected to formalize informal trade flows and empower a wider segment of African entrepreneurs and businesses.

LEO, UBA’s chatbot originally launched as a virtual assistant on messaging platforms such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp, has evolved into one of the most powerful AI banking platforms in Africa. With the cross-border payment functionality, it now expands its capabilities beyond traditional digital banking to become a vital tool for economic empowerment and regional financial integration.

United Bank for Africa, one of Africa’s largest financial institutions, operates in 20 African countries, as well as the United Kingdom, United States, France, and the UAE, serving over 45 million customers and employing more than 25,000 people group-wide.

By introducing this innovation through its digital ecosystem, UBA has once again reinforced its leadership in banking technology, financial inclusion, and customer-first service delivery on the African continent. Read More

Crackdown in Ondo: Police Uncover Ritual Syndicate, Rescue Kidnap Victims, Foil Cult Attack in Sweeping Security Gains

Lukman Omikunle

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July 16, 2025

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Crackdown in Ondo: Police Uncover Ritual Syndicate, Rescue Kidnap Victims, Foil Cult Attack in Sweeping Security Gains

Ondo State, Nigeria – July 16, 2025

In what authorities have described as a major breakthrough in the ongoing war against crime, the Ondo State Police Command has announced a string of recent security achievements, including arrests of armed robbers, ritualists, kidnappers, and cultists, alongside high-profile rescue operations and the dismantling of vehicle theft syndicates across the state.

The developments were disclosed during a press briefing by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Lawal Adebowale, who emphasized that the recent successes stem from “intelligence-led policing, robust inter-agency collaboration, strategic use of technology, and the unrelenting support of community stakeholders.”

According to the commissioner, officers across various divisions, supported by forensic tracking tools and real-time digital surveillance, successfully tackled multiple forms of crime including kidnapping, armed robbery, cultism, sexual violence, and ritual killings. Below are highlights from the command’s most recent operations:

Stolen Vehicle Recovered, Suspects Arrested

On July 6, detectives from Ore Area Command intercepted a white LT bus loaded with stolen goods and arrested two suspects—Jimoh Abdulmumuni, 28, and Jeremiah Lebe Igwe, 50. The principal suspect confessed to stealing the bus from his employer in Lagos. The stolen vehicle has been recovered and the suspects are in custody pending prosecution.

Armed Robber Nabbed in Ore

A notorious robber, Agent Oluwatobi, was arrested on July 10 following a robbery incident at a hotel in Ore, where he and his gang dispossessed a victim of his phone. “We acted swiftly on credible intelligence, and efforts are underway to apprehend his accomplices,” said the commissioner.

Kidnap Victim Rescued in Akoko

Police operatives in Supare Akoko, in collaboration with local hunters, rescued one Abu Kehinde who had earlier escaped his kidnappers. The rescue followed a coordinated bush combing operation triggered by a report of abduction.

Student Rescued from Ritualists in Akure

In one of the most disturbing cases, a 17-year-old female student of OAUSTECH, Orowole Laughter, was rescued after being abducted by suspected ritualists. Four suspects, including a fellow student and an Ogboni cultist, were arrested. Incision marks were found on the victim’s body, suggesting ritual practices. Surveillance and a trap involving a bank transaction led to the arrests. The suspects confessed to initiating the victim for ritual purposes. She is currently receiving medical and psychological care.

Cultist Arrested at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic

One Owolabi Tobiloba, 21, was arrested following a violent cult attack at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. He confessed to being a member of the Eiye Confraternity and was implicated in an assault inside an examination hall.

Vehicle Theft Syndicate Busted

SWAT operatives arrested ten suspects and recovered a stolen Toyota Corolla in a raid conducted between July 6 and July 12. The suspects confessed to a car theft ring that operated across Ondo, Lagos, and Edo States. Paul Niwa, identified as a key facilitator, was among those apprehended. Several other stolen vehicles remain unaccounted for.

Two AAUA Students Raped and Murdered in Chilling Kidnap Case

In a case that has sent shockwaves across the state, detectives uncovered the abduction, rape, and murder of two undergraduates of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko—Abah John Friday, 25, and Okah Andrel Eloho, 19.

Investigations led to the arrest of Abdul Mubarak and Ojo Michael, who confessed to the brutal crimes. Michael further revealed the involvement of the victims’ landlord, Oladele Femi, who initiated the attack over a personal dispute. The female victim’s body was recovered from a bush in Ode-Ekiti; her male companion’s remains are still missing.

“These young lives were cut short in the most gruesome manner. We are committed to bringing every perpetrator of this atrocity to justice,” said the commissioner solemnly.

Child Rape Case Progresses to Court

The gender unit of the Command confirmed that a case involving the sexual violation of a 12-year-old girl by a community chief has been fully investigated and has now been charged to court.

Foiled Cult Attack on SUG Election in Ile-Oluji

On July 15, a cultist identified as Muhammed Taofeeq, 28, was arrested in connection with a plot to launch a deadly attack aimed at disrupting the Students’ Union Government (SUG) election at Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji. Intelligence revealed plans for coordinated violence before, during, and after the polls. The suspect, a known member of the Alora Confraternity, had been on the Command’s wanted list for months.

His arrest also connected him to the July 13 attack on a bar in Ondo town that left several injured.

“Thanks to timely intelligence and swift action, we thwarted what could have been a bloodbath,” the Commissioner stated.

In closing, the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, reaffirmed the Police Command’s commitment to safeguarding all residents in Ondo State:

“These successes are a testament to what is possible when we combine intelligence, technology, and public collaboration. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and continue supporting our efforts through timely reporting of suspicious activities.”

He added that investigations are ongoing in many of the cases and that all suspects still at large would be pursued with full force. Read More

Again, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Donates Borehole, Printing Machine to Public Schools

Politics

Lukman Omikunle

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July 16, 2025

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By Lukman Omikunle

Again, Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Donates Borehole, Printing Machine to Public Schools

Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo, a UK-trained engineer and dedicated philanthropist, has once again uplifted her community by donating a borehole and a printing/photocopying machine to two public schools in Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The donations, facilitated through her foundation, The Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Renaissance Project, were presented on Monday, July 14, 2025, to MAALE Comprehensive High School (Junior) and All Saints Anglican Primary School.

During the presentation of the printing and photocopying machine, Mrs. Christiana Ireti Sholaja, Principal of MAALE Comprehensive High School (Junior), lauded Agemo-Okuboyejo’s selfless commitment. “Her gesture is a rare act of service to humanity,” Sholaja said. “Not every leader takes the time to visit public schools, assess their needs, and deliver on promises. This donation addresses a critical gap, as we’ve struggled for years to access timely school documents.”

The principal, speaking on behalf of the school’s teachers and students, expressed profound gratitude, noting that the machine would streamline administrative tasks and enhance the learning environment. “This act will be etched in our school’s history. We thank Madam Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo and pray for her continued blessings,” Sholaja added.

At All Saints Anglican Primary School, Agemo-Okuboyejo’s donation of a borehole has brought immense relief to a long-standing challenge of accessing clean drinking water for pupils and teachers. The headteacher, Mr. Taiwo, described the gift as “more than a project—it’s a profound act of kindness to our community.” The assistant headteacher and pupils echoed this sentiment, showering prayers on Agemo-Okuboyejo and pledging to maintain and protect the borehole.

Agemo-Okuboyejo’s contributions extend far beyond these donations. Her foundation has consistently supported public schools, students, and rural communities in Ado-Odo/Ota.

In October 2023, newsheadline247 reports that she donated a borehole to Local Government Primary School in Ajerogun, addressing water scarcity in the area.

On February 23, 2025, we also reported that she awarded N50,000 cash prizes to 36 outstanding graduating students of the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGSITECH) in Igbesa, celebrating academic excellence. These initiatives are part of her self-funded programs to provide scholarships, educational resources, and basic needs to indigent residents.

A passionate advocate for education and community development, Agemo-Okuboyejo continues to serve her people with unwavering dedication. Her efforts through The Temitayo Agemo-Okuboyejo Renaissance Project are transforming lives and inspiring hope across Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government. Read More

Final Salute: Buhari Laid to Rest in Daura as Nigeria Bids Farewell to Its Former President

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July 16, 2025

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Final Salute: Buhari Laid to Rest in Daura as Nigeria Bids Farewell to Its Former President

Daura, Katsina State – July 15, 2025

In a solemn ceremony filled with national pride and heartfelt tributes, former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari was laid to rest on Tuesday, July 15, at his private residence in Daura, Katsina State. The burial marked the final journey of a man who served Nigeria as both military Head of State and two-term civilian President.

The late President’s remains arrived earlier in the day from London, where he passed away. His body was flown into the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina and was received by a high-level delegation led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

President Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and several African leaders, including President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau and Niger Republic’s Prime Minister Ali Lamine Zeine, joined the procession to Daura. Former Nigerien President Issoufou Mahamadou and former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo were also present, alongside several governors, ministers, and prominent Nigerian business figures.

Massive crowds gathered in Daura, lining the roads and surrounding the late president’s residence, as Buhari’s body was briefly laid in state. The funeral prayer, Salatul Janazah, was led by Sheikh Salisu Rabiu, the Chief Imam of Daura Central Mosque.

At approximately 5:50 p.m., Buhari was interred amid full military honours—including a 21-gun salute and the sounding of the reveille—in recognition of his lifelong service to Nigeria.

President Tinubu described Buhari’s death as “a profound national loss,” adding, “He was a patriot to the core, a man of immense discipline who dedicated his entire life to the service of this nation. His legacy, both as a soldier and a civilian leader, will endure for generations.”

The Federal Government has announced a week-long series of commemorative activities in his honour, beginning with a formal condolence visit to the Buhari family on Tuesday evening.

Buhari is survived by his wife, former First Lady Aisha Buhari, their children, grandchildren, and a nation that continues to reflect on his decades of public service. Read More

“Bring The Wealth Home” – Dangote Calls On Wealthy Nigerians to Invest in Nigeria’s Future

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July 15, 2025

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“Bring The Wealth Home” – Dangote Calls On Wealthy Nigerians to Invest in Nigeria’s Future

…Says he defies odds to build $20bn refinery

President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has urged wealthy Nigerians to invest in Nigeria, as it is the only way to build the nation. He said there is no two ways about it: real growth and development cannot happen in a nation without significant investments.

He criticised the tendency of African wealth being exported and stashed abroad, calling on the continent’s entrepreneurs and affluent individuals to invest at home. “It is only through such commitment that we can drive true development,” he added.

In a chat with select media men, recently, Dangote said: “No nation develops without significant investments. I appeal to all wealthy Nigerians to look inward and invest here, in Nigeria, for the future of our unborn kids. There is hardly any country without corruption, but the difference between there and here is that, in those other corrupt nations, they invest the stolen funds in their country and grow their economy rather than keeping it in foreign banks that will not in any way impact positively on the economy.”

According to him, what Africa truly needs are bold, transformative projects capable of addressing its long-standing socio-economic challenges, particularly the creation of jobs for its growing population.

Speaking of his decision to defy the odds in building the $20bn refinery, he said he was determined to see Nigeria become self-sufficient in refined petroleum products and to serve as a catalyst for other African nations, despite numerous challenges and opposition.

He explained that he undertook the ambitious project to secure energy independence for Nigeria and the wider African continent. He stressed that, except for Libya and Algeria, most African countries still rely heavily on imported refined petroleum products despite the continent’s abundant crude oil reserves.

“Apart from Algeria and Libya, which are self-sufficient, virtually every other African country is an importer,” Dangote said, underscoring the urgent need for operational refineries on the continent. He also lamented that Africa had become a dumping ground for substandard petroleum products due to this overreliance on imports.

Africa holds around 125 billion barrels in proven oil reserves, with significant contributions from Nigeria, Algeria, Angola, Egypt, and Libya—all of which rank among the world’s top 30 oil-producing nations.

Dangote revealed that many had doubted the capacity of the Dangote Group to deliver such a massive project. Some even advised him to abandon it, citing the failures of several sovereign nations to complete similar undertakings.

“People think building a refinery is like building a house,” he said. “But, as I always say, if I had known the scale of challenges we would face, I wouldn’t have started at all. We were fortunate as a group because we didn’t fully grasp what we were getting into, but we believed that nothing is impossible.”

As the project progressed, the group faced a critical juncture: to halt and suffer the losses, or to forge ahead and succeed. “We had to keep pushing to ensure delivery,” Dangote said.

He expressed hope that the refinery would inspire other African countries to enhance their refining capacities and invest in value-added industries, rather than continuing to export raw materials.

Dangote further argued that true independence goes beyond politics—it also requires economic self-reliance and financial freedom for African citizens. He warned that continued import dependency would keep African nations trapped in poverty.

“Your Crown May Rest, But Your Legacy Remains Lifted” – Balogun Fasasi Adesoye Onasanya Family Pays Tribute to Awujale

Lukman Omikunle

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July 15, 2025

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By Lukman Omikunle

“Your Crown May Rest, But Your Legacy Remains Lifted” – Balogun Fasasi Adesoye Onasanya Family Pays Tribute to Awujale

The Balogun Fasasi Adesoye Onasanya Family has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, Ogbagba II, describing his 65-year reign as a monumental era that shaped the heritage and identity of the Ijebu people.

In a heartfelt tribute, the family eulogized the revered monarch as “more than a king,” lauding him as “the living embodiment of duty, grace, and visionary leadership.”

“Kabiyesi was more than a king. He was the living embodiment of duty, grace, and visionary leadership. Throughout his decades of service, he remained deeply connected to his people, listening, guiding, and acting with sincerity and strength,” the tribute read. “His selflessness was not performative. It was a quiet force that shaped lives, uplifted communities, and safeguarded the dignity of our culture.”

The family reflected on cherished personal moments shared with the late monarch — filled with dialogue, laughter, and deep counsel — which revealed the humanity and unwavering commitment that characterized his reign.

“He made service look noble. He made kingship feel personal,” the tribute stated.

A significant portion of the message paid homage to the longstanding relationship between the monarch and the Onasanya lineage. According to the Balogun Fasasi Adesoye Onasanya Family, Oba Adetona shared a deep bond with their late patriarch, Balogun Fasasi Adesoye Onasanya — a bond that was marked by mutual respect and cultural legacy.

**Otunba Adegboyega Adesoye, the Otunba Gbaderogun and Osi Balogun of Ijebu Land**

“Through that special bond, he honored Otunba Olatunji Agoro Adesoye (late) with the Otunba Taiyese of Ijebu land, Chief Aderemi Ligali Adesoye with Chief Gbaderogun of Ijebu Land, and Otunba Adegboyega Adesoye with Otunba Gbaderogun and Osi Balogun of Ijebu Land,” they recalled. “These honors were more than tradition. They reflected the Awujale’s faith in leadership rooted in integrity, loyalty, and cultural stewardship.”

The tribute also expressed regret that the monarch did not live to witness the realization of his long-held dream of an independent Ijebu State, a cause he championed passionately until his final days.

“It weighs heavily on our hearts that Kabiyesi did not live to see the realization of the Ijebu State he so passionately pursued. He fought for this vision tirelessly — not for power, but for the pride and progress of his people.”

As they bid farewell to the royal icon, the family described him as “a father figure, a guardian of tradition, and a soul whose impact will echo through the corridors of Ijebu history.”

“Kabiyesi, rest well. Your footprints are immortal. Your spirit, irreplaceable,” the family stated. Read More

Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82: Nigeria Bids Farewell to a Statesman of Principle | By Owolabi Aleshinloye

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July 15, 2025

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Buhari’s leadership was defined by a commitment to anti-corruption, national security, and infrastructure development

Former President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 82: Nigeria Bids Farewell to a Statesman of Principle | By Owolabi Aleshinloye

Nigeria mourns the loss of one of its most prominent and influential leaders, former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, Jul y 13th, 2025, at a private hospital in the city London, United Kingdom at the age of 82, following a prolonged illness.

A former military ruler turned elected president, Buhari served as Nigeria’s Head of State from 1983 to 1985, and later as democratically elected President from 2015 to 2023. The People’s General was fortunate to have served the country twice as a military leader and a civilian president.

A Lifetime of Service!

Born on December 17th, 1942, in Daura, Katsina State, Muhammadu Buhari began his public life as a military officer, quickly rising through the ranks with a reputation for discipline and integrity. His military government between 1983 to 1985 was known for its war against indiscipline and strong anti-corruption stance.

Three decades later, in a historic democratic turn, Buhari made history in 2015 when he defeated incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

The President of Integrity!

Buhari’s leadership was defined by a commitment to anti-corruption, national security, and infrastructure development. His administration pursued massive public works projects, including railways, roads, and agricultural reforms, and introduced major social programs aimed at reducing poverty and youth unemployment.

Despite facing criticism over economic challenges and health-related absences during his presidency, he remained widely respected for his personal discipline, humility, and refusal to engage in excess. His signature style, measured, reserved, and stoic, made him both admired and critiqued in equal measure.

National Mourning and Global Tributes!

In recognition of his service, his friend and President of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared seven days of national mourning, with flags flown at half-mast across the country, and declared Tuesday 15th of July as public holiday in honor of Mai Gaskia. Buhari’s body was flown home to Nigeria and laid to rest on Tuesday, July 15, in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, in accordance with Islamic rites.

Leaders across the globe, including those from the African Union, ECOWAS, and the United Nations, paid tribute to Buhari’s legacy. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo described him as “a man of deep patriotism whose commitment to Nigeria was beyond question.”

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, stated: “President Buhari’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic consolidation and anti-corruption efforts will be remembered for generations.”

Legacy of a Patriot

Throughout his life, Muhammadu Buhari remained a symbol of austere leadership in a nation hungry for accountability. Whether in uniform or in democratic office, he projected a rare image of honesty, frugality, and unwavering loyalty to Nigeria.

He is survived by his wife, Aisha Buhari, children, grandchildren, and a grateful nation.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s name is etched into the annals of Nigerian history, not just as a soldier or a politician, but as a leader whose convictions shaped decades of national discourse.

As Nigeria bids farewell, we remember him not just for the offices he held, but for the principles he lived by.

May his soul rest in perfect peace!
May Almighty Allah grant unto him Aljana Firdaus (Amen).

Comrade Owolabi Aleshinloye (OwoSports) is a seasoned journalist and public commentator. He writes from Lagos State, South West Nigeria.
July 15, 2025

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OKFTZ: Gbenga Daniel 2004 Vision Comes Alive as Dangote Commits to Olokola Deep Seaport Project

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July 15, 2025

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OKFTZ: Gbenga Daniel 2004 Vision Comes Alive as Dangote Commits to Olokola Deep Seaport Project

The revival of the OKFTZ is not just a win for Dangote or Ogun State—it is a triumph for visionary governance and a lasting tribute to the developmental foresight of Otunba Gbenga Daniel

OKFTZ: Gbenga Daniel 2004 Vision Comes Alive as Dangote Commits to Olokola Deep Seaport Project

Ogun State, Nigeria – In a major boost to Nigeria’s industrial and maritime landscape, Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has submitted formal paperwork to commence the construction of a multi-purpose deep seaport within the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ) in Ogun State — a vision originally championed by former governor and current Senator, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.

This development marks a significant resurrection of the OKFTZ project, which was initiated by Senator Daniel in 2004 during his tenure as Governor of Ogun State in partnership with the then Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu. The zone was conceived as a strategic industrial hub to drive Nigeria’s economic growth, focused on oil and gas processing, petrochemicals, refining, heavy and light manufacturing, and port infrastructure.

The project had stalled for years due to political and administrative setbacks, especially during the administration of Governor Ibikunle Amosun (2011–2019), leading to the relocation of Dangote’s $16 billion refinery project from Olokola to Lagos. But now, Otunba Daniel’s bold vision is finding new life.

“The OKFTZ is back to life!” the statement declares, echoing the enthusiasm of economic stakeholders across Ogun State and Nigeria. “Truly, Otunba Daniel’s works will keep speaking for him no matter how late.”

According to a Bloomberg report published on Monday, July 14, Dangote confirmed that paperwork for the project was submitted in late June 2025, as part of his plan to build Nigeria’s largest and deepest seaport—just 100 kilometres from his existing fertilizer and petrochemical complexes in Lagos.

“Africa’s richest person has applied to begin work on a seaport near his fertilizer and oil refinery plants to make it easier to export goods — including liquefied natural gas — and support the rapid growth of his industrial empire,” Bloomberg reported.

“It’s not that we want to do everything by ourselves, but I think doing this will encourage other entrepreneurs to come into it,” Dangote was quoted as saying.

The planned Atlantic seaport in Olokola is expected to serve as a major export channel for urea, fertilizers, and eventually liquefied natural gas (LNG). It is also being considered a strategic alternative to the Lekki Deep Sea Port, with capacity that could potentially surpass it.

The reactivation of the Olokola project represents more than just economic advancement; it also vindicates Otunba Daniel’s foresight in infrastructural planning and regional development. His vision for a self-sustaining industrial corridor along the Ogun coastline now appears closer to realization, two decades after the groundwork was first laid.

Under the current Ogun State administration, relations with the Dangote Group have improved, creating an enabling environment for large-scale investment. As part of the broader infrastructure rollout, Dangote is also advancing plans for a network of pipelines linking the Niger Delta to Lagos for LNG transport — a project expected to rival the operations of Nigeria LNG Ltd.

Meanwhile, the company is preparing to begin nationwide fuel distribution in August 2025, using a fleet of 4,000 gas-powered trucks. Despite concerns about possible market dominance, Dangote has dismissed suggestions of monopolistic intent.

With a personal fortune of $27.8 billion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Aliko Dangote’s push into seaport and logistics infrastructure signals another bold move in reshaping Africa’s economic architecture.

As the OKFTZ begins to rise from dormancy into action, observers say this revival is not just a win for Dangote or Ogun State—it is a triumph for visionary governance and a lasting tribute to the developmental foresight of Otunba Gbenga Daniel. Read More

Awujale’s Passing: Olota of Ota Mourns Oba Sikiru Adetona, Describes Him as ‘A Titan of Royalty and Wisdom’

Lukman Omikunle

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July 15, 2025

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Awujale’s Passing: Olota of Ota Mourns Oba Sikiru Adetona, Describes Him as ‘A Titan of Royalty and Wisdom’

Oba Obalanlege praised the Awujale’s inclusiveness, his devotion to inter-ethnic harmony, and his particular affection for the Awori people

Oba (Prof.) Adeyemi Obalanlege, Lanlege Ekun II, the Olota of Otta and Chairman, Awori Obas Forum, Ogun State,

By Lukman Omikunle

Awujale’s Passing: Olota of Ota Mourns Oba Sikiru Adetona, Describes Him as ‘A Titan of Royalty and Wisdom’

The Olota of Otta and Chairman, Awori Obas Forum, Ogun State, His Majesty Oba (Prof.) Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, Lanlege Ekun II, has extended heartfelt condolences to the Ogbagba Anikilaya Royal Family and the entire people of Ijebuland on the passing of His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Kayode Adetona, GCON, Ogbagba II, the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland.

In a formal letter addressed to the royal family and made available to Newsheadline247, the Olota expressed “deep sorrow yet profound gratitude for a life nobly lived,” noting that Oba Adetona’s transition marks the end of a “rare and illustrious era.”

“Oba Adetona’s transition marks the end of a rare and illustrious era, an era of unflinching moral courage, reformist monarchy, and unwavering commitment to justice, cultural integrity, and national unity,” the letter read.

Describing the late monarch as a mentor and father figure, the Olota reminisced about their close relationship, particularly since his own ascension to the throne of Ota.

“Since my ascension to the throne of Ota Kingdom, I have been privileged to enjoy an endearing father-son relationship with Kabiyesi. He was not only a father to me in royalty but also a mentor, advisor, and beacon of wisdom,” Oba Obalanlege wrote.

He further recalled the Awujale’s last birthday celebration on May 30, 2025, which he attended with reverence.

“I recall with reverence my presence at his last birthday celebration… modest in its setting, yet rich in substance. I never thought that would be the last birthday I’d celebrate with him. It offered an unforgettable testament to his enduring legacies, especially at the Oba (Dr.) S.K.A Adetona Institute for Governance Studies at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye.”

Oba Obalanlege praised the Awujale’s inclusiveness, his devotion to inter-ethnic harmony, and his particular affection for the Awori people.

“Kabiyesi’s unwavering love for the Awori people, his inclusive kingship, and his commitment to harmonious inter-ethnic relations remain greatly appreciated and will never be forgotten by the Awori Kingdom.”

Highlighting the Awujale’s contributions to the advancement of education, industrialisation, culture, tradition, and family values, the Olota described him as a titan of royalty and cultural icon.

“As we mourn, we also celebrate a titan of royalty, a cultural icon, a revered traditional ruler, and a statesman of immense stature,” Olota concluded the letter with prayer.

“We pray the Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings, accept his return, and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus. Ameen.”

In a further demonstration of solidarity and respect, the Olota dispatched a high-powered delegation to Ijebu Ode to deliver his condolences in person. The delegation, led by High Chief Adelani Faleye, Baale of Eledi Atala in Ota, High Chief Jamiu Komolafe, Baale of Ipamesan Oke, Ota and Chief Abayomi Oluwadamilare Omoroga, the Regent of Osi Otta Quarters and Eletu of Otta.

The representatives were warmly received at the Awujale’s palace in Ijebu Ode.

Oba Sikiru Adetona, who passed away at the age of 91, was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning monarchs and a powerful voice for traditional institution reform and good governance. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in Yoruba and Nigerian traditional leadership. Read More

Rep. Akinosi Celebrates Ex-Governor Osoba at 86, Hails Him as Courageous Statesman, Inspirational Leader

Politics

Lukman Omikunle

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July 15, 2025

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By Lukman Omikunle

Rep. Akinosi Celebrates Ex-Governor Osoba at 86, Hails Him as Courageous Statesman, Inspirational Leader

As elder statesman and former Ogun State Governor, Akinrogun Chief Olusegun Osoba, clocks 86, tributes have continued to pour in from across the nation, with Member of the House of Representatives representing Ado-Odo/Ota Federal Constituency, Hon. Engr. Tunji Akinosi, FNSE, leading the chorus of praise for the revered political icon.

In a congratulatory message personally signed by the federal lawmaker and made available to newsheadline247, Rep. Akinosi extolled Chief Osoba as a beacon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership, describing him as a “statesman of uncommon courage, a journalist of distinction, and a leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations.”

Akinosi’s statement reads, “Happy 86th Birthday to Akinrogun Segun Osoba!
A statesman of uncommon courage, a journalist of distinction, and a leader whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
May your years ahead be filled with peace, good health, and the joy of fulfilled purpose.”

Chief Olusegun Osoba, a highly respected figure in Nigerian politics and journalism, served as Governor of Ogun State in two separate terms and remains a formidable voice in the political evolution of the South West and Nigeria at large. Beyond his political achievements, Osoba is widely acknowledged for his sterling contributions to the media industry, having risen through the ranks as a distinguished journalist before venturing into politics.

Rep. Akinosi’s tribute reflects the immense respect the elder statesman commands within and outside Ogun State. The lawmaker praised Osoba’s continued relevance and mentorship in national affairs, noting that the former governor’s leadership footprints have become a source of guidance for younger politicians and public servants.

The message, which has since gained traction on various media platforms, joins many others across Nigeria in celebrating the life, legacy, and contributions of one of the nation’s most distinguished elder statesmen.

As the Akinrogun of Egbaland marks his 86th birthday, Nigerians from all walks of life are paying homage to a man whose service, sacrifice, and stature continue to shape the narrative of good governance and responsible leadership. Read More