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Ladi Adebutu Donates ₦50 Million at Iyabode Anisulowo’s 75th Birthday Book Launch in Ogun

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Ladi Adebutu Donates ₦50 Million at Iyabode Anisulowo’s 75th Birthday Book Launch in Ogun

Oladipupo Adebutu donates ₦50 million at Senator Iyabode Anisulowo’s 75th birthday in Ilaro, supporting church development and book launch

Ogun PDP Chieftain, Ladi Adebutu Donates ₦50m at Senator Anisulowo’s 75th Birthday Celebration

The Lisa Aje of Ota-Awori and 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State, Hon. (Dr) Oladipupo Adebutu, has donated a total of ₦50 million in honour of Distinguished Senator Iyabode Anisulowo at her 75th birthday celebration.

The event, held in Ilaro on Saturday, March 21, 2026, drew family members, political associates, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the former lawmaker.

During the ceremony, Adebutu announced a ₦10 million donation towards church development, alongside ₦20 million in support of the launch of the celebrant’s book titled “My Story of Grace and Grit.”

Breaking down the contribution, ₦10 million was made personally by Adebutu, while an additional ₦10 million was donated on behalf of his father, Sir Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu GCON.

The gesture was widely received as a mark of deep respect and appreciation for Senator Anisulowo’s years of service, leadership, and enduring impact.

The celebration highlighted her contributions to public service and her influence within Ogun State and beyond, as dignitaries paid tribute to her legacy. Read More

FG to Introduce Learner ID for Pupils, Replace Common Entrance with Continuous Assessment

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FG to Introduce Learner ID for Pupils, Replace Common Entrance with Continuous Assessment

The Federal Government will introduce a Learner Identification Number (LIN) to track pupils’ progress and replace common entrance exams with continuous assessment

FG Introduces Learner Identification Number, Plans to Phase Out JSS Entrance Exams in Nigeria

The Federal Government has unveiled plans to introduce a Learner Identification Number (LIN) for pupils starting from primary school, in a major move aimed at tracking students’ academic journeys across the country.

Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, disclosed the initiative during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, highlighting deep concerns over the alarming drop-off rate between primary and secondary education.

“We have over 50,000 public primary schools in the country with over 23 million pupils. However, from statistics available to us, only a little over 3 million among those pupils move to the junior secondary school level in our public schools, then the question is, where are the about 20 million not enrolled in our public secondary schools?” he said.

He added, “It is obvious that we cannot say our private schools accommodate all of them.”

According to the minister, the gap points clearly to limited access to education, a challenge the government is now prioritising.

“The issue is simply lack of access and we are working on that. There is need to build more schools and I have met the Nigerian Governors’ Forum over that. State governments need to build more schools to accommodate more pupils and students,” he stated.

To address the tracking challenge, Alausa explained that the LIN system will assign every child a unique identification number that follows them throughout their academic journey.

“To also follow up on our pupils and students, we are introducing the Learner Identification Number right from primary school level for our children. It will be unique to each child and they will have the number no matter where they started schooling or later transferred to.”

He added, “If somebody is expected to be in JSS class one and he is not there, we will be able to know the reason why he is not continuing his education.”

In another major reform, the Federal Government is set to phase out the long-standing common entrance examination for pupils transitioning into junior secondary school.

“It will be replaced by Continuous Assessment, CA. The CA will reflect the performance of the pupil from primary one and even if a pupil is transferring from one school to another, he will take it along to his new school,” Alausa explained.

The minister also revealed plans to revive the school feeding programme as part of efforts to boost enrolment and retention in public schools.

He hinted that the programme would soon be moved from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to the Federal Ministry of Education to ensure more effective monitoring and implementation. Read More

The Legislative Ledger – Evaluating Performance and Impact Of Otunba Gbenga Daniel In The Senate

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The Legislative Ledger – Evaluating Performance and Impact Of Otunba Gbenga Daniel In The Senate

By Otunba Fatai SOWEMIMO

Four years ago, Ogun East didn’t just elect a Senator; a builder was sent to Abuja. Today, the evidence of that choice is no longer in a manifesto. It is in the laws of our land and the asphalt on Ogun East roads.

Legislative Impact:

Most first-term senators spent their years “learning the ropes.” OGD, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy, however, hit the ground running.

With 16 bills and 4 major motions. In under three years, Senator Daniel is among the most productive senators in the 10th National Assembly. OGD isn’t just sitting; he is leading the Ogun state delegations in bill sponsorship.

OGD Regional Vision:

The South-West Development Commission bill (SB 102) is his “Crown Jewel.”

He didn’t just propose it, he saw it through the Presidential Accent on (March 25, 2025)

This law is a generational win. It secures federal funding for roads and erosion control across the entire South West States. OGD has effectively institutionalised the development of our region. Only a leader of his experience could push such a massive regional bill to the finish line.

Educational and Economic Hub Creator.

Let us focus on the Federal College of Aviation Bill (SB 52) and Tai Solarin bill (SB 771).

He is positioning Ogun East as the “Aviation and Educational Hub of Nigeria. By positioning an existing institution to Federal status, he is bringing federal money to the people’s doorstep, creating jobs for local youth, and increasing the value of land. Continuity ensures these colleges are fully funded and operational.

Social Welfare:

Highlight of the Terminal Illness Trust Fund bill (SB 223) sponsored by him.

OGD is addressing the “silent killer,” the cost of healthcare for the poor.

HE understands that infrastructure is useless if the people are too sick or too poor to enjoy it. His focus on Terminal illness shows he has the heart for the most vulnerable citizens of Ogun East.

Federal Medical Centre, Ijebu Ode, Bill (SB 514). A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Medical Centre Act, 2022, to provide for the Establishment of Federal Medical Centre Ijebu Ode. The bill has scaled through the Senate floor and is in the House of Representatives for final concurrence and final passage.

Creation of State:

OGD sponsored the Federal Republic of Nigeria Constitution sixth alteration bill (SB 654).

A Bill for an Act to Alter Section 3(1) and the First Schedule, Part 1, States of Federation of 1999 Constitution (as amended) to provide for the creation of a state out of the old Ijebu Province to serve the cause of equity and justice by transforming the only province out of the initial 24 yet to become a state.

This generational bill will boost the political, economic, and social advancement of the homogenous people of Ijebuland and Remoland.

Tangible Home Front Projects.

Don’t talk about laws, talk about the 18+ facilitated projects.

From the Abigi Naval Base to kilometres of road in Simawa Road, he is delivering “stomach infrastructure” and “physical infrastructure” simultaneously.

While some Senators only show up during elections, OGD’s transformer distribution in IjebuOde, Sotubo Sagamu, Ijebu East, Odogbolu  etc, installations of solar lights in Isara, Obafemi Awolowo Way GRA Sagamu, Ijebu Igbo, Ago Iwoye.

Rehabilitation of Obafemi Awolowo Way, Sagamu,  construction and rehabilitation of Abigi/Makun Omi Naval Base, construction of Awokoya Road, Ijebu Ode, construction of Odo-Egbo Junction/Ereko street/Ondo Rd Junction, Ijebu Ode. Reconstruction of Joseph Oladeinde/Sani Luba Rd, Ijebu Ode. Simawa Road, and road Ewuga, Sagamu. OGD has turned Ogun East into a massive ‘construction site.’

Motions

OGD moves urgent need to intervene in the flooding issues in Sagamu, Ijebu Areas of Ogun East, Edu and Patigi Areas of Kwara North Senatorial District of Kwara State and other parts of the country. The prayers were modified and approved as contained in the Senate’s Votes and Proceedings of the 10th Senate of 5th July, 2023.

He moved the famous Apuren Community Development Association vs Nigerian Army: A Petition on behalf of the Apuren Community Development Association over the alleged invasion of their community by the Nigerian Army. The petition was laid at the 6th of January, 2026 and was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privilege and Petition.

Empowerment:

Free Medical outreach through Gateway Front Foundation and interest free loan to market women and traders.

“In the 10th Senate, OGD hasn’t just been a representative, he has been a transformer. He moved the South-West Development Commission from a dream to a law. He is moving our schools from state to federal funding. If he could achieve all this in one term. Imagine the massive federal influence Ogun East will wield when he returns as a High Ranking Principal Officer in his second term

This election is not about new faces:

* It is about results.

* It is about influence.

* It is about protecting the progress that Ogun East has already achieved.

The question is, will Ogun East move forward with proven performance or gamble on an experiment? Because the National Assembly does not reward new faces, it rewards ranking Senators with influence. Ogun East should not trade influence for an experiment.

Those calling for a new face understand politics, but they clearly do not understand how Abuja works.

If experience did not matter in the National Assembly, why do committee chairmanships and major responsibilities go to ranking members?

If Otunba Gbenga Daniel is working, bringing laws, bringing projects, and giving the Senatorial District a stronger voice in Abuja, what exactly is the jurisdiction for replacing him with a new face?

A second term makes OGD a “Ranking Senator,” giving him power to lead major committees and bring even bigger projects home. Ogun East cannot afford to lose this momentum.

Continuity

ins’t just a choice: for Ogun East, it is a development necessary. Read More

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Tinubu Celebrates Tony Elumelu, Hails Him as African Business Icon

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Tinubu Celebrates Tony Elumelu, Hails Him as African Business Icon

President Tinubu celebrates Tony Elumelu’s birthday, praising his impact on African enterprise and youth empowerment through $5,000 grants

Tinubu Celebrates Tony Elumelu at Birthday, Praises Africapitalism and Youth Empowerment

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to renowned investor, banker, and philanthropist Tony Elumelu, describing him as “an African business icon and a leading advocate of Nigerian and African enterprise.”

In a birthday message marking Elumelu’s celebration on March 22, the President spotlighted his far-reaching influence across Africa’s economic landscape.

Tinubu highlighted Elumelu’s leadership roles as chairman of Heirs Holdings, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Transcorp, alongside his work as founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

He commended the business mogul for “his resilience, the excellence that governs his entire enterprise, and his steadfast belief in Africapitalism,” noting that his contributions continue to shape Africa’s economic future.

The President gave special recognition to the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s flagship entrepreneurship programme, describing it as a powerful engine for youth empowerment across the continent.

According to him, the initiative “has so far trained 2.5 million young Africans across 54 countries and empowered over 24,000 budding African entrepreneurs with non-refundable seed capital of $5,000 each.”

“As a strong supporter of youth investment,” Tinubu said, he “particularly lauds the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s entrepreneurship programme,” underscoring its role in expanding opportunities and driving inclusive growth.

“As Elumelu marks this special occasion,” the President added, he “joins his family and friends in wishing him good health, strength, and continued success in all his pursuits.” Read More

Hakimi Rejects AFCON 2025 Title After CAF Ruling, Insists Senegal Deserved Victory

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Hakimi Rejects AFCON 2025 Title After CAF Ruling, Insists Senegal Deserved Victory

Captain of Morocco’s national team, Achraf Hakimi, has publicly rejected the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, maintaining that his side did not earn the trophy on the pitch.

The Morocco national football team defender made the declaration following a controversial decision by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to award Morocco a 3–0 victory after overturning their 1–0 loss to the Senegal national football team in the final.

CAF’s Appeal Board ruled on March 17, 2026, that Senegal’s walk-off during the match constituted a forfeiture under tournament regulations, effectively handing Morocco the title.

However, Hakimi distanced himself from the decision, insisting he could not accept a championship he believes was not won fairly.

“My mum told me to reject the AFCON trophy.

I’m officially rejecting it and hope my teammates do same. We had a chance but failed to win,” he said.

The Paris Saint-Germain star acknowledged Senegal’s performance, describing them as deserving champions and warning against undermining their achievement.

“That’s football—sometimes you win, sometimes you lose. Senegal beat us fairly and deserved it. It would be unfair to ruin their joy after the hard work,” he added.

Hakimi emphasised that while he respects CAF’s authority, his personal stance remains unchanged.

“I respect the CAF decision but I’m officially rejecting the trophy. I didn’t win AFCON 2025. Congratulations to Senegal once again,” he said.

The development marks a rare moment in international football, with a player openly declining official recognition in favour of sporting integrity.

Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation has announced plans to challenge the ruling at the Court of Arbitration for Sport, setting the stage for a potential legal battle over the tournament’s final outcome.

Obasa Pushes Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election, Says Continuity Key to Sustaining Reforms

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Obasa Pushes Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election, Says Continuity Key to Sustaining Reforms

Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has declared that the continuation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration beyond 2027 is critical to consolidating ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Obasa made the statement on Saturday in Ikeja during an interfaith prayer session organised by The Mandate Movement (TMM) to mark the President’s 74th birthday.

According to the Speaker, the gathering was not only to pray for Tinubu’s health, wisdom, and longevity, but also for Nigeria’s peace, unity, security, and sustainable development.

Describing Tinubu as a pragmatic and visionary leader, Obasa said the administration’s policies are already reshaping Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their support, emphasising that continuity would ensure the full benefits of ongoing reforms.

He cited the removal of fuel subsidy as a policy that has significantly improved state revenues, while also highlighting the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFund) as a transformative initiative expanding access to higher education.

Obasa further pointed to the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway as one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, with the potential to drive economic growth and boost tourism.

He also commended the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, for her Renewed Hope Initiative, noting its impact in food distribution, women-focused agricultural support, economic empowerment, and digital learning programmes.

The Speaker called on Nigerians to rally behind Tinubu and candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general elections.

In his remarks, former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, praised Tinubu’s leadership and reform agenda, urging citizens to support his re-election bid to sustain national progress.

Also speaking, Chief of Staff to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Tayo Ayinde, commended the President’s efforts in repositioning the economy and prayed for continued wisdom and good health.

Lawmakers including Stephen Ogundipe and Lanre Ogunyemi also urged Nigerians to celebrate the President’s achievements and maintain support for his economic reforms.

The event attracted a wide array of political leaders, party faithful, community stakeholders, and religious clerics, alongside supporters of the APC from across Lagos State.

Benin Palace Drama Deepens as Queen Ewuare Counters ‘Unauthorised Visit’ Claims Over Peller

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Benin Palace Drama Deepens as Queen Ewuare Counters ‘Unauthorised Visit’ Claims Over Peller

The controversy surrounding the visit of social media influencer Habeeb Adelaja, popularly known as Peller, to the Benin Royal Palace has escalated, with Queen Ewuare publicly challenging claims that the visit was unauthorised.

The development comes amid disciplinary action by the Benin Traditional Council, which recently announced the queen’s suspension alongside some chiefs and a palace staff member over what it described as a “desecration of the sacred precincts” of the palace.

Peller, currently on a nationwide tour, visited Benin City on March 6, where he was reportedly received by certain palace officials—an այց that triggered backlash within traditional circles.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Frank Irabor, the council condemned the visit as a breach of protocol, ordering Peller to appear before a committee of chiefs to explain his actions and issue an unreserved written apology. It further alleged that the influencer and his entourage gained access without proper approval, causing embarrassment and disrupting peace within the palace.

The council also disclosed that the queen involved could face further disciplinary measures, including possible removal from the palace.

In a swift response, Queen Ewuare took to TikTok to refute the allegations, insisting that the narrative being circulated is misleading.

She shared what she described as documentary evidence—a letter stamped and acknowledged by the council—which she claims proves that Peller’s visit was formally communicated in advance.

“The Benin Traditional Council lied that Peller’s visit was unauthorised,” she stated, adding that deeper issues exist beyond the current controversy.

The document, dated February 23, 2026, and addressed to Oba Ewuare II, reportedly notified the palace of the influencer’s planned visit and requested a brief audience.

While the queen maintains that the acknowledgement validates the visit, critics argue that receiving a letter does not amount to official approval, fueling debate across social media.

The development has sparked divided reactions online, with some backing the queen’s position while others insist that palace protocols must be strictly upheld.

Supporters praised her transparency, while critics emphasised the sacred nature of the Benin Palace and the need for formal authorisation before any visit.

Amid the growing tension, Peller’s management released a statement defending the visit, insisting that due process was followed.

According to the team, a formal request was submitted ahead of the visit, initially scheduled for March 3 before being moved to March 6.

They also confirmed they were informed that the Oba would not be available but were still permitted entry and received by palace representatives.

“They were welcomed, guided through the palace, and educated on its history and traditions,” the statement read, adding that any perceived misconduct was unintentional.

The team further apologised for any misunderstanding, stressing that Peller is committed to promoting Nigerian culture respectfully.

Despite the explanations, the Benin Traditional Council has maintained its position, reiterating that the palace is a sacred institution, not a venue for casual visits or content creation.

In a further twist, the council revealed that a palace staff member, Mr Omuemu, has been detained by the Nigeria Police Force and charged in court for allegedly facilitating the unauthorised access.

Authorities, it added, remain on alert and may take additional action as the situation continues to unfold.

‘We Were Branded Troublesome’ — Omotola Opens Up on Alleged Nollywood Ban

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‘We Were Branded Troublesome’ — Omotola Opens Up on Alleged Nollywood Ban

Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has opened up about the circumstances surrounding her alleged ban from the Nigerian film industry years ago, revealing that it stemmed from a push for higher professional standards.

Speaking during a recent interview while promoting her new movie ‘Mother’s Love’, Omotola disclosed that she was not alone in the experience, naming fellow industry heavyweights including Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Stella Damasus, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and Nkem Owoh as part of those allegedly sidelined.

According to her, the group faced resistance from movie marketers after advocating for improved structure, professionalism, and better standards within Nollywood.

“They said we were too troublesome because we were trying to better the industry. They said we were bad influences because we were pushing for standards,” she revealed.

Omotola further disclosed that although a reconciliation meeting was later arranged, she chose not to attend.

“They called for a reconciliation meeting, and I refused to go,” she said.

Addressing long-standing public curiosity about her relationship with Genevieve Nnaji, the actress clarified that while they maintain cordial relations, they are not particularly close.

“People don’t need to be best friends, but we talk,” she added.

Her revelations shed new light on past tensions within Nollywood, highlighting the challenges faced by actors who sought to reform the industry’s structure and standards.

Nigeria Not Taking Foreign Deportees Presidency Clears Air on UK Migration Deal

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Nigeria Not Taking Foreign Deportees Presidency Clears Air on UK Migration Deal

The Nigerian Presidency has firmly dismissed reports alleging that the country agreed to accept foreign deportees under a newly signed migration agreement with the United Kingdom.

Clarifying the development on Friday, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Temitope Ajayi, said the deal strictly applies to Nigerian citizens residing illegally in the UK and does not extend to non-Nigerians.

Ajayi explained that the clarification became necessary following the spread of misinformation about the scope of the agreement, which was signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK.

In a statement shared via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Ajayi noted that the pact—executed by Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and UK Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood—focuses solely on the return of Nigerians without legal residency status in the UK.

“For clarity, the agreement only relates to Nigerians who do not have legal status to live and remain in the UK,” he stated.

He emphasized that Nigeria is under no obligation to accept deportees who are not its citizens, stressing that the UK government has not imposed such a condition.

“Nigeria is not taking back non-Nigerians. The UK is not compelling Nigeria to accept individuals who are not our nationals,” Ajayi added.

According to him, the clarification was prompted by misleading narratives suggesting that the agreement involved a broader deportation arrangement.

He further assured that the deal includes provisions to ensure the humane treatment of returnees, in line with Nigerian laws and international standards. Nigerians returned under the framework, he said, would also retain the opportunity to reapply for entry into the UK, subject to immigration requirements.

Supporting the Presidency’s position, the Ministry of Interior stated that the agreement establishes a structured framework for the “dignified return and reintegration” of Nigerians without legal status in the UK.

The ministry highlighted key components of the arrangement, including secure travel documentation, case-by-case identity verification, and protections for vulnerable individuals such as victims of human trafficking.

It also noted that the agreement strengthens bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the UK in areas such as information sharing, capacity building, training, and joint research on migration and border management.

The Federal Government maintained that the pact represents a balanced and lawful approach to migration, while protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and the rights of its citizens.

Martial Arts Legend and “Walker, Texas Ranger” Star Chuck Norris Dies at 86

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Martial Arts Legend and “Walker, Texas Ranger” Star Chuck Norris Dies at 86

The world mourns the loss of iconic martial artist and actor, Chuck Norris, who passed away at the age of 86.

Norris’ family announced his death on Friday via social media, describing him as a man who lived with faith, purpose, and kindness, inspiring millions through his work and discipline. He reportedly fell ill on Thursday on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, a day after celebrating his 86th birthday.

“It is with heavy hearts that our family shares the sudden passing of our beloved Chuck Norris,” the statement read. “While we would like to keep the circumstances private, please know that he was surrounded by his family and at peace.”

The statement highlighted the duality of Norris’ life: a global martial arts and film icon to the world, and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother to his family.

“Through his work, discipline, and kindness, he inspired millions around the world and left a lasting impact on so many lives,” the family said.

A six-time world karate champion and holder of multiple black belts, Norris became a household name for his tough-guy persona and signature roundhouse kicks. He rose to Hollywood fame with films such as The Way of the Dragon, starring opposite Bruce Lee in the legendary fight scene that cemented his reputation. He also starred in “Missing in Action,” “The Delta Force,” and “The Expendables 2,” with a career spanning decades, starting from a cameo in the 1968 Dean Martin film, “The Wrecking Crew.”

Just last week, Norris celebrated his 86th birthday with a playful boxing video on social media, declaring, “I don’t age. I level up.”

Fans, colleagues, and martial arts enthusiasts worldwide have shared tributes, honoring his unparalleled contributions to cinema and his lifelong dedication to martial arts. Norris’ legacy as both a Hollywood icon and a disciplined martial artist will continue to inspire generations.

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