A former member of the House of Representatives, Wale Okediran, has warned that the persistent insurgency in Northern Nigeria has deprived thousands of children and infants of access to life-saving immunisation over the past five years.
Okediran raised the concern on Thursday while speaking on Guest Platform, a monthly programme of the Oyo State-owned Broadcasting Corporation, in Ibadan.
His remarks come amid renewed security concerns following a deadly attack on Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, where gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram killed scores of residents and razed several houses on Tuesday evening.
The attackers, believed to have emerged from the Borgu National Park forest in neighbouring Niger State, reportedly invaded the communities around 6:00 pm, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee in panic.
Okediran warned that unless the insurgency is urgently addressed, the situation could lead to increased infant and child mortality, as well as outbreaks of preventable diseases.
“Boko Haram’s onslaught has restricted the movement of people in several northern states,” he said. “This has affected commerce, reduced Internally Generated Revenue and severely disrupted healthcare delivery, especially child immunisation.”
Health, Education, Economy Hit
The former lawmaker, who is also a medical practitioner and Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association, lamented that insecurity has reversed decades of social integration and development in the North.
“The North of Nigeria has become a very difficult story,” he said. “There was a time when many Nigerians loved going to the North. The railway system unified the country, and people moved freely.”
Recalling Nigeria’s past, Okediran noted that prominent figures such as the late Chief Bola Ige were born and raised in the North, where inter-ethnic coexistence was once peaceful.
“In those days, many Yoruba families lived and worked in the North. Movement was peaceful, and people felt safe,” he said.
He contrasted that era with the current reality, describing the region as increasingly unsafe over the last decade due to insurgency.
Immunisation Gaps Raise Alarm
Drawing from personal experience, Okediran said his research work on his book, Madagali, gave him first-hand exposure to the devastation caused by Boko Haram across Adamawa and Borno states.
“I was totally depressed by what I saw,” he said. “Apart from the destruction, the insurgency has worsened the crisis of out-of-school children and severely affected health indices.”
He expressed particular concern about immunisation gaps, describing them as a looming public health disaster.
“As a health practitioner, what worries me most is that many children in the North have not been immunised for years because of insecurity,” Okediran said. “When you look at Nigeria’s vaccination indices, the North consistently performs poorly.”
He added that farming, education and other sectors of human endeavour have also been badly affected, deepening poverty and social instability.
Hope for Recovery
Despite the grim outlook, Okediran expressed optimism that ongoing collaboration between Nigeria and foreign partners to combat insurgency could help restore stability to the region.
“I am hopeful that with sustained efforts and international cooperation, the North can regain the glory of its earlier years,” he said.
Insurgency Denying Northern Children Life-Saving Immunisation — Ex-Lawmaker Okediran Warns
Ignoring History Fuels Tyranny, Says Wole Soyinka at Yoruba Tennis Club Centenary
Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka has warned that societies which neglect their history and fail to confront injustice are at risk of sliding into tyranny, stressing that cultural identity and historical consciousness remain essential to justice and national renewal.
Soyinka delivered the warning while presenting the Centenary Lecture of the Yoruba Tennis Club (YTC) in Lagos, where he traced the origins of the club to a broader struggle for social liberation, dignity and self-definition among Nigerians during the colonial era.
The playwright and activist said the organisation that later became the Yoruba Tennis Club was conceived not merely as a social institution, but as part of a historical movement to reclaim identity and dignity in the face of oppression.
He described the club’s name as a deliberate and powerful affirmation of cultural identity, rejecting the idea that embracing Yoruba heritage contradicts global or universal values.
“What is wrong with being Yoruba?” Soyinka asked, insisting that cultural rootedness does not undermine cosmopolitanism.
According to him, humanity is not built on cultural erasure but on the recognition, respect and dignity of origins.
“The founders of the club understood who they were and what they stood for,” he said.
Lessons from Independence and Nationhood
Reflecting on Nigeria’s post-independence experience, Soyinka said many leaders were more interested in replacing colonial rulers than dismantling the unjust systems they inherited.
He noted that the excitement surrounding independence often overshadowed the need for deep reflection on governance, accountability and justice.
Soyinka explained that his early play, A Dance of the Forests, was intentionally pessimistic, designed to serve as a warning against repeating historical mistakes.
Contrary to expectations that the work should celebrate independence, he said he believed the real work of nation-building had only just begun.
“The future is not merely about liberating ourselves from the past,” Soyinka said, adding that genuine progress requires remembering, confronting and learning from past failures in order to avoid reproducing them in new forms.
He warned that tyranny rarely arrives suddenly, but often takes root when societies neglect justice, silence dissent and allow leaders to step comfortably into the roles of former oppressors.
YTC Reaffirms Cultural and Intellectual Legacy
Chairman of the Yoruba Tennis Club, Chief Olawumi Gasper, reaffirmed the club’s commitment to preserving history, culture and intellectual leadership.
He described the centenary celebration as a testament to the institution’s enduring legacy and sustained influence in Nigeria’s cultural and intellectual landscape, noting that the club has remained rooted in tradition while engaging contemporary issues for over a century.
Gasper praised Soyinka’s intellectual depth, cultural insight and moral clarity, describing the lecture and interactive session as a rare opportunity to engage with wide-ranging discussions on literature, culture, nationhood, humanity, conscience and the enduring role of history in shaping societies.
He also paid tribute to the club’s founding fathers, acknowledging their foresight, sacrifices and dedication to preserving the values and traditions of the Yoruba Tennis Club.
CIBN Hails Otti’s Economic Reforms as Abia Records GDP Growth, Job Creation
The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has commended Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, for what it described as remarkable economic progress recorded under his administration.
The President and Chairman of the Council of the CIBN, Prof. Pius Olarenwaju, gave the commendation on Thursday while leading a delegation of the institute on a courtesy visit to the governor at his office in Umuahia.
Olarenwaju said Abia State had achieved notable economic milestones within a short period, including a 10 per cent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), an eight per cent reduction in poverty, the attraction of investments and the creation of over 10,000 jobs.
“You have achieved, within this short time, notable economic progress—10 per cent GDP growth, an eight per cent reduction in poverty in this part of the country, the attraction of significant investments and the creation of more than 10,000 jobs,” he said.
“We have read about these achievements in the newspapers, but seeing them firsthand makes them even more impressive. We appreciate you, sir.”
Social Sector, Infrastructure, Security Applauded
The CIBN president also praised improvements in the social sector, including strengthened healthcare delivery, reduced mortality rates, the introduction of health insurance schemes and enhanced education infrastructure driven by free education policies.
He further acknowledged ongoing road construction and other infrastructure projects across the state, describing them as clear indicators of purposeful and people-centred governance.
Olarenwaju commended Abia’s Operation Crush security initiative, noting that it had improved safety, restored youth confidence and stimulated economic activities across the state.
He also lauded Governor Otti’s contributions to the banking and finance profession, describing him as a goodwill ambassador of the institute whose achievements have brought pride to CIBN members.
According to him, the institute plans to organise an event later in the year to honour outstanding former bank chief executives for their contributions to the industry.
Call for Deeper Collaboration
The CIBN chairman called for deeper collaboration between the institute and the Abia State Government, particularly in the areas of financial literacy, financial inclusion, infrastructural development and the completion of the CIBN state office.
He disclosed that the institute was implementing a national programme aimed at training 10 million women and youths on financial inclusion, stressing that financial literacy remained fundamental to economic empowerment.
“There is a condition precedent to financial inclusion, and that is financial literacy. We are intentional about this, and we want the state to be actively involved,” he said.
Otti Reaffirms Commitment to Sustainable Growth
In his response, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and stronger collaboration with the CIBN, describing the relationship with the institute as long-standing and strategic.
He highlighted key achievements of his government, including job creation, economic growth, poverty reduction, free and compulsory education, and improved healthcare delivery.
The governor disclosed that the introduction of free education had led to over 100 per cent increase in school enrolment, adding that 5,394 teachers had already been recruited, with plans underway to employ an additional 4,000 teachers.
Otti also commended the CIBN’s efforts in curriculum reform and expressed interest in adopting the institute’s updated curriculum across state-owned tertiary institutions.
“The institute’s programme on financial inclusion and financial literacy is very important,” he said. “Even those who believe they have some knowledge still make mistakes because they do not fully understand financial decisions. I am happy you are doing this.”
The governor was joined at the meeting by the Commissioner for Finance, Uwaoma, Commissioner for Agriculture, Cliff Agbaeze, the Accountant-General of the State, Mrs Njum Uma-Onyemenam, and other senior government officials.
Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Commitment to Lagos International Financial Centre, Targets Global Hub Status
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the establishment of the Lagos International Financial Centre (LIFC), urging sustained collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders to position Lagos as a globally competitive financial hub.
The governor spoke at the unveiling of the LIFC Phase 1 Report held at the Lagos State House, Marina, where he described the initiative as a strategic economic reform aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s global competitiveness and transforming Lagos into a leading international financial centre.
Chairman of the Lagos International Financial Centre Council (LIFCC), Sanwo-Olu said the project, conceived about two years ago, was designed to attract international capital, deepen financial markets and generate sustainable economic opportunities for Nigeria.
According to him, the success of the initiative is anchored on a clear long-term vision, strong institutional backing and sustained stakeholder support.
“For me, it is all about leadership and confidence. If you can dream it and envision it, then you can achieve it. The foundation we are laying today is for the future of our economy, our children and generations to come. This is not just about Lagos; it is about building an economic legacy that will transform Nigeria’s financial ecosystem,” the governor said.
Sanwo-Olu noted that significant groundwork had already been completed through policy engagements, technical partnerships and institutional capacity building, adding that the next phase would focus on implementation and structural reforms.
He commended the United Kingdom government and TheCityUK for providing technical and financial support, stressing that the development of a credible international financial centre requires a robust institutional framework and strategic investment partnerships.
The governor also emphasised the need to shield the project from political transitions, revealing that key state and federal institutions had been integrated into the implementation framework.
“We have designed a model that involves both state and national institutions so that the project becomes institutional rather than personality-driven. It is about building a sustainable structure that will outlive any administration,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu called for stronger synergy between the public and private sectors, noting that effective risk-sharing and joint investment strategies were essential to achieving the objectives of the LIFC.
In his remarks, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, described the initiative as a major economic milestone capable of unlocking domestic and international capital flows for infrastructure development, job creation and overall economic growth.
He praised the Lagos State Government and EnterpriseNGR for driving the project and strengthening collaboration with federal institutions, adding that a well-structured international financial centre would deliver broad benefits to the national economy.
Also speaking, Co-Chairman of the LIFCC, Mr Aigboje Aig-Imokhuede, underscored the importance of private sector participation, describing the LIFC as a collaborative economic ecosystem that thrives on strong partnerships between government and business institutions.
He said EnterpriseNGR had played a leading role in advancing the initiative by drawing lessons from established global financial centres such as London, New York and Kigali.
HFN: Private Sector Innovation Key to Affordable, Quality Healthcare in Nigeria
The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) has emphasised that technology-driven private sector innovation is critical to improving healthcare quality, affordability and access, as Nigeria continues to grapple with high out-of-pocket spending and limited public funding.
Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday ahead of the 2026 HFN Annual Conference in Lagos, the federation’s President, Mrs Njide Ndili, said the private sector has already demonstrated its ability to transform healthcare delivery when supported by enabling government policies.
Ndili cited the Federal Ministry of Health’s recent decision to allocate a federal tertiary hospital to private organisations as a sign of growing government recognition of private-sector expertise.
“In December last year, the Federal Ministry of Health allocated a tertiary hospital to private organisations to improve the quality of care in federal facilities. That is a big win,” she said, noting that privately operated facilities have shown near world-class standards when efficient systems are deployed.
She added that consistent advocacy and proven results are gradually influencing public policy in favour of private-sector participation.
On healthcare affordability, Ndili noted that enrolment in Nigeria’s health insurance scheme has grown from about five million to nearly 20 million, but millions—particularly in the informal sector—remain uninsured.
“There is what we call the ‘missing middle’. The majority of Nigerians are still not covered by health insurance,” she said, stressing that private-sector innovation could help bridge the gap through simplified, technology-driven enrolment processes.
Drawing parallels with the banking and telecommunications sectors, Ndili said digital innovation could similarly unlock healthcare access and reduce out-of-pocket spending.
“When people say healthcare is expensive, it’s because they are paying directly from their pockets. Insurance changes that dynamic,” she added.
Also speaking, HFN Executive Secretary, Mr Olufemi Akingbade, said fragmentation within the private healthcare sector contributes significantly to high costs, as facilities often operate independently and bear the full burden of equipment procurement.
He explained that the federation is exploring shared-use models, such as regional hubs for expensive equipment like CT scan machines, to spread costs and make healthcare more affordable.
Akingbade also disclosed that HFN is pursuing partnerships in the power sector to reduce energy costs for private hospitals, noting that electricity expenses are a major driver of healthcare pricing.
The Chief Executive Officer of Infinity Health, Mrs Irene Nwaukwa, highlighted the role of technology in strengthening public-private partnerships and standardising healthcare delivery nationwide.
She said digitising primary healthcare centres would improve accountability, reduce medical errors and ensure adherence to clinical guidelines, especially during emergencies.
Other speakers, including the Chairman of the Guild of Medical Laboratory Directors in Lagos State, Mr Julius Adekoya, commended HFN for convening key stakeholders across policy, finance and healthcare delivery to drive sustainable reforms.
The Healthcare Federation of Nigeria Annual Conference 2026, themed “Transforming Healthcare: Leveraging Private Sector Innovation to Achieve Quality Outcomes and Universal Health Coverage,” is scheduled to hold from March 4 to 5, 2026, in Lagos.
Africa Unveils ‘Queen of Africa,’ First Reality TV Show Celebrating Women Leaders Across the Continent
Africa is set to redefine the celebration of women’s leadership with the launch of Queen of Africa, the continent’s first reality television show dedicated to showcasing African women as leaders, changemakers and cultural ambassadors.
Conceived as a pan-African platform for visibility and impact, Queen of Africa will bring together 54 women—one representative from each African country—to compete for the historic title of Africa’s First Lady. The initiative is convened by Lady Gina Orizu, President of the Uto Umuokpu Anambra Association in the United States, and represents a departure from conventional beauty pageants to purpose-driven representation.
The show is organised by LFC International Production Limited in collaboration with Uto Umuokpu Anambra USA Women Association and Christian Ruart Fashion Group NYFW Experience.
At its core, Queen of Africa seeks to address long-standing gender disparities by shifting the focus from physical appearance to leadership capacity, vision, social impact and cultural influence.
Speaking at the official launch, Lady Orizu said the project was inspired by the need to empower African women who have been historically marginalised by cultural and societal barriers.
“Our goal is to empower women, especially those who need it most. This platform is about creating real opportunities for women to lead, inspire change and foster unity across the continent,” she said.
Open to women aged between 25 and 40, the competition will follow a transparent selection process combining national nominations with public participation from audiences within Africa and the diaspora. Contestants will be evaluated based on leadership qualities, merit and public votes, with the eventual winner holding the Queen of Africa title for a two-year reign.
The winner will receive a $50,000 cash prize, a branded vehicle from Innoson Motors, and international recognition as a continental ambassador for African women and leadership.
Executive Producer and Director of the show, King Jerry Nrialike, described Queen of Africa as a movement designed to transcend entertainment and drive social development.
“Queen of Africa is about breaking the glass ceiling and accelerating women’s development across Africa,” he said.
The reality show will be streamed across multiple digital and social media platforms, ensuring global reach and accessibility while allowing African women to tell their stories through lived experiences, culture and leadership journeys.
FG Enrols 250,000 Youths in TVET Programme as Tinubu Targets One Million Skilled Nigerians
FG Enrols 250,000 Youths in TVET Programme as Tinubu Targets One Million Skilled Nigerians
The Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has disclosed that no fewer than 250,000 young Nigerians have been enrolled in the Federal Government’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme nationwide, marking a major milestone in the administration’s skills development agenda.
The programme, which was launched with a target of enrolling one million beneficiaries, is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical and market-ready skills.
Alausa made the disclosure on Thursday during his induction as a member of the Epe Club at a ceremony held in the Alausa area of Lagos State. The event was organised in honour of a political leader in the Epe Division, Shakiru Akanni, and attracted political stakeholders and traditional rulers from across the state.
Speaking as chairman of the occasion, the minister said the enrolment figure reflects the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to revitalising the education sector and repositioning skill acquisition as a driver of national development.
“Skill is the present and the future. We have changed the interest of our young citizens in skill development. Within the last 14 months, we have put a robust technical and vocational education and training programme in place, and we have seen massive interest from young Nigerians,” Alausa said.
He added that the current batch represents the first phase of the one-million-enrolment target expected to be achieved within the next two years. According to him, beneficiaries will be supported with starter packs and access to low-interest loans upon completion of their training.
The minister also expressed appreciation to the Epe Club for conferring membership on him and commended the recognition given to Akanni, noting that such honours reinforce positive social values and inspire future leaders in nation-building.
In his remarks, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, said Nigeria continues to record progress under President Tinubu’s administration, urging citizens to remain optimistic and take advantage of available opportunities.
Hamzat encouraged young Nigerians to emulate the leadership qualities, community spirit and political values exemplified by the honorary award recipient.
Earlier, President of the Epe Club, Olayemi Dada, said the club remains committed to supporting indigent students and providing equipment for health centres within the Epe Division. He explained that the honour was designed to celebrate individuals who have contributed significantly to community development while still alive.
The ceremony also featured a fundraising session for the proposed ultra-modern Epe Club building. Read More
2027: Awori Unity Committee Raises Alarm Over Ogun West Unity, Says Inclusion Is Key to Governorship Dream
Awori Unity Committee urges calm and internal dialogue amid Ogun West controversy, raises concerns over inclusion and calls for sincere Yewa–Awori unity to actualise the district’s 2027 governorship ambition
2027 Ogun Governorship: Awori Unity Committee Raises Concerns, Calls for Genuine Yewa–Awori Unity
The Awori Unity Committee (AUC) has called for calm, restraint and sincere internal engagement among stakeholders in Ogun West Senatorial District, warning that lingering divisions between the Yewa and Awori blocs could once again derail the district’s long-standing ambition to produce a governor for the first time since the creation of Ogun State nearly 50 years ago.
In a statement released on Thursday, February 5, 2026, the AUC reacted to the political controversy triggered by a keynote address delivered by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, at a media chat organised by Ogun West Professionals for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) in Ilaro on February 1, and the subsequent response by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
The Committee expressed concern that the exchange of views had spiralled into a social media storm, generating sharp divisions within the Awori and Yewa communities at a time when unity is most critical.
“We are deeply worried by the barrage of reactions and counter-reactions playing out on social media. Awori-related concerns are best resolved internally through dialogue, not public escalation,” the AUC stated.
While expressing deep concerns over the controversy, the AUC acknowledged Senator Bamidele’s repeated recognition of the Awori people, particularly Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, which he described as the industrial heartbeat of Ogun State.
According to the Committee, the Senate Leader correctly noted that Ogun West’s repeated failure to clinch the governorship seat since 1976 has largely been due to internal wrangling, lack of cohesion and elite fragmentation, and that unity between Yewa and Awori stakeholders is indispensable to success in 2027.
The AUC agreed that the call for collective support for Senator Adeola (Yayi) and the broader message of unity are, in principle, unavoidable.
“Unity between Yewa and Awori is essential and unavoidable if Ogun West is serious about producing a governor in 2027,” the Committee noted.
However, the AUC warned that public exchanges surrounding the Deputy Governor’s reaction to Senator Bamidele’s speech risk reopening old wounds and undermining ongoing efforts to strengthen Awori unity, particularly among traditional rulers.
“This is a delicate moment. Political interests must not be allowed to disrupt the process of Awori unity, which is non-negotiable,” the statement stressed.
The Committee reiterated that Aworiland’s political relevance and development — both in Ogun and Lagos states — depend on internal cohesion and disciplined engagement.
Beyond rhetoric, the Awori Unity Committee raised uncomfortable but critical questions about equity, inclusion and sincerity in the Ogun West project.
Among the concerns highlighted were:
- The reported absence of Awori representation among the five appointees currently handling Ogun West affairs in Abuja.
- Claims that about 500 federal appointments and employments have been made for Yewa–Awori people, with no clarity on how many Awori beneficiaries are included.
- The alleged exclusion of Ado-Odo/Ota youths from five federal health-sector employment letters presented at the Ilaro event.
- Perceived imbalance in the sharing of national benefits meant for Ogun West.
- Electoral data showing that Ado-Odo/Ota contributes about 65% of votes from the senatorial district, making it indispensable to any winning governorship strategy.
“How genuine are we among ourselves in the quest to produce a governor from a district that has been politically marginalised for 50 years?” the Committee queried.
The AUC appealed directly to all Ogun West governorship aspirants to deliberately engage Awori leaders and stakeholders, especially in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, in a manner that reflects fairness, equity and genuine inclusion.
According to the Committee, only truthful engagement, balanced representation and mutual respect can produce the level of internal coherence required to secure external political support across Ogun State.
As the 2027 election cycle gathers momentum, the Awori Unity Committee warned that Ogun West cannot afford another missed opportunity caused by internal disunity.
“Unity, when sincere, remains our strongest political asset,” the Committee concluded, urging stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and focus on the historic task of delivering the first-ever governor from Ogun West. Read More
Adron Homes at 14: From Shimawa to Over 60 Livable Communities, Building Cities Beyond Estates
Fourteen years ago, what began as a visionary real estate development effort in Shimawa, Ogun State, has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most recognizable housing success stories.
Adron Homes at 14: From Shimawa to Over 60 Livable Communities, Building Cities Beyond Estates
Today, Adron Homes & Properties stands as a major force in structured urban development, with over 60 livable communities and estate dwellings spread across key regions of the country. Its journey reflects a deliberate mission that is not just to sell land, but to build functional cities where Nigerians can live with dignity, security, and a strong sense of community.
At a time when Nigeria faces rapid urbanization and an ever-growing housing deficit, Adron Homes has embraced an approach rooted in planning and affordability. From its earliest developments, the company adopted a city-building model that integrates structured layouts, accessible infrastructure, and community-focused design. Roads, drainage systems, green areas, and designated social spaces are incorporated into estate planning, transforming empty land into organized residential hubs.
The story of Adron’s growth mirrors Nigeria’s evolving urban landscape. Beginning in Shimawa, the company strategically expanded into major growth corridors, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, Abuja, Nasarawa, Niger, and beyond. Its estates have not only provided shelter but have also influenced the emergence of new residential districts, encouraging organized expansion and helping to reduce the challenges associated with unplanned settlements.
Central to the company’s success is its commitment to affordability. Through flexible payment structures and innovative housing initiatives, Adron Homes has opened the door to homeownership for thousands of Nigerians who previously considered property ownership out of reach. This democratization of housing has empowered families, strengthened communities, and supported economic growth through increased property investment and local business opportunities within estates.
Beyond physical structures, Adron Homes prioritizes community building. Estates are designed as living ecosystems where families interact, children grow in secure environments, and entrepreneurs find opportunities to thrive. The emphasis on social cohesion has helped transform residential spaces into vibrant neighborhoods, reinforcing the idea that housing development should nurture human connection as much as physical infrastructure.
As Nigeria continues to urbanize, Adron Homes’ model demonstrates that real estate development can be both commercially viable and socially impactful. Its projects serve as reference points for emerging residential corridors, attracting further investment and setting standards for organized development across multiple regions.
Celebrating fourteen years of growth and innovation, Adron Homes remains committed to shaping Nigeria’s urban future through sustainable planning, inclusive housing solutions, and community-driven development. From its humble beginnings in Shimawa to a nationwide network of livable communities, the company’s journey stands as a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and a steadfast belief that cities are built not just with structures, but with people at their heart.
PRESS RELEASE: Awori Unity Committee Calls for Calm, Internal Resolution and Genuine Yewa–Awori Unity
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PRESS RELEASE: Awori Unity Committee Calls for Calm, Internal Resolution and Genuine Yewa–Awori Unity
The Awori Unity Committee (AUC) wishes to clarify its position on the recent public discourse that followed the keynote address delivered by the Senate Leader of Nigeria, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, at the media chat organised by Ogun West Professionals for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi) in Ilaro, Ogun State, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, and the subsequent reaction by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Her Excellency, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
The AUC notes that the exchange of views has generated widespread commentary and controversy within the polity, particularly on social media, with divergent opinions expressed by individuals across the Awori and Yewa communities. While acknowledging the right to free expression, the Awori Unity Committee wishes to state clearly that the Committee is worried about the ongoing controversy and strongly believes that Awori-related concerns are best resolved internally, through dialogue and engagement, rather than through public exchanges or social media confrontations.
Acknowledging Senator Bamidele’s Position
The Committee observed that during his address, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele consistently acknowledged the strategic importance of the Awori people, particularly Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, within the Ogun West Senatorial District. He recognised Ado-Odo/Ota as the industrial hub of Ogun State and repeatedly emphasised that only collaboration among all stakeholders in Ogun West — Yewa and Awori alike — would make it possible for the district to actualise its long-standing aspiration of producing a governor.
Senator Bamidele also highlighted that historical records show that Ogun West has failed in previous attempts to produce a governor largely due to internal wrangling, lack of cohesion, and elite fragmentation, and he therefore called for unity and collective support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), whom he described as the most qualified candidate.
The AUC acknowledges that the emphasis on unity between Yewa and Awori is, in principle, essential and unavoidable if Ogun West is to succeed politically in 2027.
On the Deputy Governor’s Response and Public Reactions
The Committee is aware of the response issued by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, and the subsequent condemnation of her position by some Awori individuals, who felt she ought not to have addressed the Senate Leader publicly.
While the AUC is seriously worried about this matter, it expresses concern over the barrage of reactions and counter-reactions on social media, which risk deepening divisions at a time when unity is most needed. The Committee firmly insists that such sensitive issues should be addressed within appropriate internal platforms, not through public escalation.
Call for Sincere and Balanced Unity
The Awori Unity Committee emphasises that this is a critical period in which the Awori people must be more united than ever, especially as efforts are ongoing to strengthen unity among Awori traditional rulers. The Committee cautions that political interests must not be allowed to disrupt this delicate and important process.
The unity of the Awori people is non-negotiable, as it remains the foundation for sustainable development and political relevance of Aworiland, both in Ogun State and Lagos State.
While agreeing that the call by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele for Yewa–Awori unity is valid and necessary, the AUC raises an important question that must be addressed with sincerity:
How genuine are we among ourselves in the quest to produce a governor from a senatorial district that has been politically marginalised since the creation of Ogun State fifty years ago?
Concerns That Must Be Addressed
The Committee notes, with concern, that:
- The five appointees currently handling Ogun West affairs in Abuja are reportedly entirely from Yewa, with no known representation from Awori or Ado-Odo/Ota.
- There are reports of about 500 appointments/employments made for Yewa–Awori people at the federal level, yet the number of Awori beneficiaries, if any, remains unclear.
- At the Ogun West Professionals for Yayi event in Ilaro, where five youths reportedly received federal employment letters in the health sector, none could be identified as being from Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government.
- National benefits meant for Ogun West should be shared fairly and equitably between Yewa and Awori, but current perceptions suggest an imbalance.
- Electoral records consistently show that Ado-Odo/Ota contributes about 65 percent of votes from Ogun West, underscoring its indispensable role in any governorship ambition from the district.
These issues, among others, must be handled with utmost care, honesty, and inclusiveness if the call for unity is to be meaningful and not merely rhetorical.
Appeal to Aspirants and Stakeholders
The Awori Unity Committee therefore appeals to all individuals aspiring to become the next Governor of Ogun State from Ogun West to deliberately and genuinely engage Awori leaders and stakeholders, particularly in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, in the spirit of fairness, equity, and inclusiveness.
Only through truthful engagement, balanced representation, and mutual respect can the Yewa–Awori people present a united front capable of achieving the historic goal of producing the first governor from Ogun West.
The AUC reiterates its commitment to peace, unity, and constructive dialogue. The Committee urges all parties to de-escalate tensions, avoid inflammatory narratives, and focus on building the internal coherence required to secure external political success.
Unity, when sincere, remains our strongest political asset.
Signed:
Awori Unity Committee (AUC)
February 2026