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Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman, Lawal Wasiu Graces Commissioning of Ultra-Modern SUMMIT 2Sure LewaR Plant

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Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman, Lawal Wasiu Graces Commissioning of Ultra-Modern SUMMIT 2Sure LewaR Plant

Ado-Odo/Ota LG Chairman Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu attends the commissioning of the SUMMIT 2Sure LewaR ultra-modern manufacturing plant in Ogun

New Manufacturing Giant Opens in Ogun’s Industrial Hub as Ado-Odo/Ota Chairman Attends Grand Commissioning

The Chairman of Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government, Hon. Lawal Adewale Wasiu, FCA, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to industrial growth and economic prosperity by attending the official commissioning of the SUMMIT 2Sure LewaR Ultra-Modern Manufacturing Plant in Ota.

The newly unveiled facility, located within Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government—widely regarded as the industrial nerve centre of Ogun State—stands as a strong testament to the business-friendly environment cultivated by the local administration.

The plant was officially commissioned by Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Engr. Kehinde Akintomide.

Hon. Wasiu’s presence at the high-profile event highlights the local government’s strategic focus on attracting investment, fostering industrial expansion, and creating employment opportunities for residents.

Stakeholders at the event noted that the establishment of the ultra-modern facility signals growing investor confidence in Ogun State, particularly in Ado-Odo/Ota, which continues to attract major manufacturing ventures.

The commissioning further underscores the collaborative commitment between state and local governments to drive sustainable economic development and position Ogun as a leading industrial destination in Nigeria.

APC Heavyweights Rally Behind Hamzat as Lagos 2027 Governorship Race Gains Momentum

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APC Heavyweights Rally Behind Hamzat as Lagos 2027 Governorship Race Gains Momentum

The push by Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, to clinch the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket for 2027 gathered significant momentum on Thursday, following endorsements from key party figures.

Among those backing his ambition are the Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mudasiru Obasa, and former senator Ganiyu Olarenwaju Solomon, alongside other influential party stakeholders.

The endorsements came during a series of high-level consultations led by Hamzat, who visited the APC state secretariat in Ogba and later held private meetings with party leaders at their residences.

Addressing party executives, Hamzat underscored Lagos’ strategic importance to Nigeria’s stability and economic future, warning that any setback in the state could have far-reaching national consequences. He stressed the need for unity and electoral strength ahead of future contests.

He also referenced the 2023 elections, urging party members to avoid a repeat of past challenges and to secure decisive victories for both the APC and President Bola Tinubu in upcoming polls. According to him, opposition efforts to discredit the current administration stem from political weakness rather than performance gaps.

In response, Ojelabi expressed strong confidence in Hamzat’s leadership qualities, citing his competence and humility as key strengths that make him a worthy contender.

At a separate meeting, Obasa hinted at internal consensus within the party, suggesting that Hamzat’s candidacy already enjoys broad support among decision-makers. He pledged full backing to ensure electoral success.

Echoing similar sentiments, Solomon called on grassroots supporters, particularly in Mushin, to demonstrate loyalty to the APC by turning out en masse during elections.

The wave of endorsements signals early consolidation within the Lagos APC, positioning Hamzat as a formidable frontrunner in the race for the party’s governorship ticket.

Reps Push Fast-Track Bill to Boost Women’s Representation in Nigerian Legislatures

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Reps Push Fast-Track Bill to Boost Women’s Representation in Nigerian Legislatures

The House of Representatives has called for the accelerated passage of a proposed law that would create special legislative seats for women in both the National Assembly and state Houses of Assembly, in a renewed push for gender balance in governance.

The resolution was adopted on Thursday following a motion of urgent national importance moved by lawmaker Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi. He urged fellow legislators to prioritise the bill and secure the constitutionally required two-thirds majority needed for its passage.

To ensure swift progress, the House mandated its Committees on Constitutional Review, Women Affairs, and Electoral Matters to harmonise and expedite work on the proposal, with a directive to report back within a specified timeframe. Lawmakers were also encouraged to support the bill throughout all legislative stages.

The House further appealed to state assemblies to be ready for immediate concurrence once the bill clears the National Assembly, as required under constitutional amendment procedures.

In a bid to build nationwide support, lawmakers pledged to collaborate with civil society groups, traditional leaders, and the media to raise awareness and foster consensus around the legislation.

Debating the motion, Onuakalusi stressed that the bill goes beyond gender advocacy, describing it as a constitutional and developmental necessity. He warned that failure to pass the legislation would perpetuate systemic exclusion and weaken Nigeria’s commitments to international agreements on gender equality.

The House also advocated for institutionalising affirmative action as a temporary strategy to overcome longstanding structural barriers limiting women’s political participation. It called on the executive arm to provide strong political backing for the initiative and pledged continued oversight to ensure effective implementation if passed.

Highlighting the urgency, Onuakalusi noted that despite women making up nearly half of Nigeria’s population, their representation in elective offices remains below five per cent—one of the lowest rates globally.

He explained that the proposed bill would introduce constitutionally backed affirmative action by creating additional seats exclusively for women as a corrective, time-bound measure.

Drawing comparisons with other countries, he pointed to models such as reserved seats and quota systems that have significantly improved women’s participation in governance across Africa.

He also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under international frameworks promoting gender equality, arguing that greater inclusion of women in politics would enhance policymaking, strengthen democratic institutions, and improve outcomes in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and economic development.

According to him, addressing gender imbalance in political representation is essential not only for fairness but also for sustainable national growth and cohesion.

2027 Realignments: Bala Mohammed Declares Himself ‘Freelance Politician’ as Peter Obi Visits Bauchi

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2027 Realignments: Bala Mohammed Declares Himself ‘Freelance Politician’ as Peter Obi Visits Bauchi

Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has described himself as a “freelance politician,” signalling a possible shift in political alignment amid ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mohammed made the remark on Thursday while hosting former Anambra State governor and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, alongside key stakeholders from the South-East in Bauchi.

According to the governor, the high-level meeting focused on national unity, collaboration, and the evolving political landscape, rather than partisan interests.

“Neither the Peoples Democratic Party nor the ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and his party is also in limbo.

We are looking up to the judiciary,” Mohammed said.

He noted that ongoing engagements among political actors are geared towards possible realignments and strategic cooperation ahead of future elections.

“We cannot operate without a platform. At the end of the day, the current political situation may even help unify us and strengthen our chances of winning elections,” he added.

Describing Obi’s visit as symbolic, Mohammed said it reflects broader efforts to build bridges across regions and foster national cohesion.

“He is talking about unifying the country, building bridges, and creating a new tomorrow for Nigeria. This is what we stand for as a state and as a people. We feel highly honoured by this visit,” he said.

Earlier, Obi explained that his visit was part of wider consultations aimed at promoting unity and strengthening collaboration across the country.

“My purpose is to solicit support and cooperation among stakeholders, particularly from Bauchi State, in our quest to unite this country,” Obi stated.

He dismissed speculation that the meeting was linked to political defections, emphasising that the engagement was not about party alignment.

“We are not inviting each other into political parties; we are inviting ourselves to build a better Nigeria,” he added.

The meeting was attended by prominent South-East stakeholders, including former Imo State governor Achike Udenwa, as well as senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh.

The development comes amid a series of cross-party consultations led by Mohammed in recent months, as political actors intensify moves and negotiations ahead of the 2027 elections.

Fubara Backs Tinubu’s Second Term, Urges Southern Unity for Sustained Growth

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Fubara Backs Tinubu’s Second Term, Urges Southern Unity for Sustained Growth

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has thrown his weight behind the leadership of Bola Tinubu, calling for broad support for the president’s re-election to sustain ongoing reforms and development initiatives.

Fubara made the appeal on Thursday in Port Harcourt during a meeting of the Southern Traditional Rulers Council, which brought together monarchs from the 17 southern states to deliberate on unity, security, and economic growth.

Addressing the gathering, the governor acknowledged existing national challenges but maintained that the current administration has made notable strides in economic recovery and infrastructure delivery. He referenced key projects, including the ongoing coastal road construction, as evidence of progress.

He stressed the need for continuity in governance, warning against disrupting ongoing policies. According to him, “it is not ideal to change the goalposts in the middle of the game.”

Fubara further urged stakeholders across the southern region to strengthen collaboration in pursuit of shared objectives, noting that unity remains critical to achieving long-term development. He also highlighted that the turnout of traditional rulers underscored Rivers State’s peaceful atmosphere and its readiness to host major national engagements.

Earlier, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, who chairs the council, said the meeting was convened to promote peace and reinforce unity across the southern region.

Ogunwusi noted that the council represents Nigeria’s cultural diversity, with over 400 dialects spoken across the southern states, describing the forum as a practical demonstration of unity in diversity. He added that the Port Harcourt meeting was the fourth in the series, following previous sessions in Imo State, Ogun State, and Lagos State.

According to him, the platform enables traditional rulers to engage on shared values and collective interests, while also exploring ways to support government efforts in addressing security and economic challenges.

He noted that participation in the council is voluntary but crucial to repositioning both the region and the country.

The meeting attracted prominent monarchs from the South-South, South-East, and South-West, including co-chairman, the Obi of Obinugwu, Eze Cletus Illomuanya, and the Olubadan of Ibadan, Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.

‘Excellence Is Engineered’: Kwara Commissioner Lawal Olohungbebe Hosts African Spelling Bee Champions in Ilorin

Lukman Omikunle
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‘Excellence Is Engineered’: Kwara Commissioner Lawal Olohungbebe Hosts African Spelling Bee Champions in Ilorin

By Lukman OMIKUNLE

Kwara Education Commissioner Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe receives Ar-Raheem School students after African Spelling Bee success in Harare, highlighting rising academic excellence

Kwara Commissioner Lawal Olohungbebe Celebrates African Spelling Bee Champions from Ilorin

The Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Lawal Olohungbebe, has received a delegation of outstanding students from Ar-Raheem School, Ilorin, following their remarkable performance at the African Spelling Bee in Harare, Zimbabwe.

The students, who competed against peers from over 30 African countries, were presented to the Commissioner by the school’s management in a moment that underscored the growing academic strength of Kwara State on the continental stage.

Speaking during the reception, Dr. Olohungbebe, who hosted the students alongside the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Rebecca Bake, described their achievement as a reflection of deliberate investment in education and the power of discipline meeting opportunity.

“At Harare, young minds from across Africa gathered—sharp, prepared, and unyielding,” he said. “Their success proves that excellence is rarely accidental; it is carefully engineered.”

The Commissioner noted that the students’ feat transcends medals and applause, describing it as a clear signal of what is possible when educational foundations are strengthened.

“This is more than a victory—it is a declaration. Fix the foundation, and the structure will not beg for strength; it will command it,” he added.

Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development

Dr. Olohungbebe also highlighted that the spelling bee success comes shortly after students from Kwara’s public schools returned from Malaysia with medals and trophies from an international debate competition, where they represented Nigeria with distinction.

According to him, the back-to-back achievements demonstrate that excellence is no longer confined to isolated institutions but is emerging across the state’s entire education system.

Reaffirming the vision of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Commissioner stressed the administration’s commitment to building a robust ecosystem where both public and private schools are empowered to compete globally, innovate, and lead.

“We are building a system where institutions do more than survive—they compete, they evolve, and they lead,” he said.

He added that the state’s long-term goal is to institutionalise excellence to the point where such achievements become routine rather than exceptional.

“This is how systems mature—deliberately and consistently—until excellence stops being news and becomes the standard,” he stated.

Dr. Olohungbebe congratulated the students on their success and charged them to aim higher as they prepare for their next international outing.

“Congratulations, champions. The world is watching. China awaits you in July 2026—go and raise the flag even higher,” he said.

The visit marks another milestone in Kwara State’s steady rise as a centre of academic excellence, with its students increasingly making their mark on global platforms.

APC Consensus Row: Iyabo Obasanjo Backs Unity but Demands Inclusion After Ogun Candidate Selection

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APC Consensus Row: Iyabo Obasanjo Backs Unity but Demands Inclusion After Ogun Candidate Selection

Former senator and governorship aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, has thrown her weight behind the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s consensus candidate in Ogun State, while cautioning party leaders against sidelining loyal members who stepped down in the interest of unity.

In a statement released on Thursday, Obasanjo reaffirmed her long-standing support for a consensus approach, describing it as a strategic tool to reduce internal friction and strengthen the party’s chances ahead of the 2027 elections. She noted that throughout her consultations before the primaries, she consistently advocated consensus and pledged to abide by its outcome.

True to her word, Obasanjo said she immediately congratulated the party’s chosen candidate, Senator Solomon Adeola, following the APC caucus meeting held on April 13, 2026, in Abeokuta, and subsequently suspended her governorship campaign.

However, the former lawmaker raised concerns about the process, warning that consensus must not come at the expense of fairness and inclusiveness. She stressed that aspirants who invested time, resources, and grassroots engagement deserved recognition for their contributions.

Obasanjo also alleged that the caucus meeting was marred by incidents of violence, claiming that some of her supporters were denied entry and physically assaulted, with at least two requiring medical attention. She described the development as inconsistent with the APC’s values of discipline and mutual respect.

In addition, she lamented what she termed selective recognition during the meeting, noting that while some aspirants from a particular senatorial district were acknowledged for stepping down, others—including herself and former Central Bank deputy governor Dr. Tunde Lemo—were overlooked despite their extensive statewide consultations.

“Consensus should foster unity, but it must also ensure that everyone feels valued and included,” she said, emphasizing that true cohesion goes beyond mere agreement.

Despite her reservations, Obasanjo reiterated her unwavering loyalty to the APC and pledged full support for Adeola’s candidacy, as well as for President Bola Tinubu and his administration.

She urged party leaders to adopt a more inclusive approach moving forward, one that acknowledges the efforts of all stakeholders and strengthens collective resolve ahead of the elections.

Drawing on Yoruba proverbs, Obasanjo underscored the importance of fairness and reciprocity in leadership, calling for a united front built on respect, recognition, and shared purpose as the party prepares for the next phase of its electoral journey.

Tinubu Meets Senate Power Bloc Behind Closed Doors, Signals Major Decisions on Urgent National Issues

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Tinubu Meets Senate Power Bloc Behind Closed Doors, Signals Major Decisions on Urgent National Issues

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday convened a closed-door meeting with the extended leadership of the Senate at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, fueling anticipation of major policy decisions.

Sources indicate that the high-level talks centered on pressing national concerns, with discussions described as critical to the country’s immediate future. Although specifics remain under wraps, insiders suggest that far-reaching resolutions were reached during the session.

The Senate delegation was led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and featured key figures including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, and Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro.

Also in attendance were prominent lawmakers such as Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Danjuma Goje (Gombe Central), and Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central).

As of the time of filing this report, official details of the meeting’s outcomes had not been made public, leaving observers watching closely for potential policy announcements.

Tinubu Approves ₦17bn Grassroots Fund to Power Development Across Nigeria’s 8,804 Wards

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Tinubu Approves ₦17bn Grassroots Fund to Power Development Across Nigeria’s 8,804 Wards

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a ₦17 billion intervention fund designed to accelerate development at the grassroots level across Nigeria’s 8,804 wards, marking a significant push toward decentralised governance.

The initiative, announced by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, aims to place communities at the centre of decision-making by allowing them to identify and implement projects that directly address their most urgent needs. Each ward is expected to collaborate with verified community-based organisations to ensure that projects are both relevant and impactful.

Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, described the programme as a shift away from traditional top-down development strategies. According to him, the framework empowers local communities to set their own priorities, fostering practical solutions that enhance livelihoods and improve service delivery at the grassroots.

The fund will support interventions in key areas including nutrition, access to essential health commodities such as micronutrients and therapeutic foods, and minor upgrades to schools, primary healthcare centres, and sanitation infrastructure.

Implementation is scheduled to run from March to December 2026. A dedicated programme management unit will oversee execution, alongside monitoring and accountability structures. The ₦17 billion allocation will be kept in a ring-fenced account to ensure transparency in both disbursement and utilisation.

Additionally, a multi-agency task force comprising representatives from finance, humanitarian services, and anti-corruption bodies will supervise the rollout, strengthening oversight and compliance.

Officials say the programme builds on previous reforms, including expanded social intervention initiatives and community-based procurement systems, reflecting a broader policy direction focused on inclusive, bottom-up development.

Observers, however, note that the success of the initiative will depend largely on effective implementation and whether the funding translates into tangible improvements in living standards across Nigeria’s diverse communities.

GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2026 Presents “Everything Food and Drink”

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GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2026 Presents “Everything Food and Drink”

Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) has announced the 9th edition of the GTCO Food and Drink Festival, scheduled to hold from Friday, May 1st, to Sunday

GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2026 Presents “Everything Food and Drink”

Lagos, Nigeria – April 2026 – Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) is pleased to announce the 9th edition of the GTCO Food and Drink Festival, scheduled to hold from Friday, May 1st to Sunday, May 3rd, 2026, at GTCentre, Plot 1 Water Corporation Drive, Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos.

This year’s theme, “Everything Food and Drink,” captures the expansive nature of the Festival experience. It reflects not only the variety of cuisines on display but also the depth of stories behind them. Over the years, the GTCO Food and Drink Festival has grown far beyond a seasonal celebration to become a culturally significant platform where food and drink serve as a meeting point for storytelling, innovation, and opportunity. The Festival will feature 204 free retail stalls, showcasing the rich diversity and creativity of our food culture; from time-honoured traditional dishes preserved across generations, to bold contemporary interpretations of global cuisine, creating space for every flavour, every technique, and every craving to find expression.

Visitors can expect a rich programme featuring interactive masterclasses, live culinary demonstrations, food and wine tastings, and a vibrant marketplace showcasing small and medium-scale food businesses alongside established culinary brands. In addition to its wide range of food and drink offerings, the GTCO Food and Drink Festival is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, with a well-equipped play area and a variety of engaging activities for children, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Speaking ahead of the 2026 edition, the Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, Segun Agbaje, emphasised the Festival’s continued evolution as both a cultural and economic enabler: “The GTCO Food and Drink Festival has, over the years, become a living expression of what we stand for as an institution: innovation, opportunity, and enterprise that is accessible to all. What makes this platform special is not just its scale, but its humanity. It brings together people from different walks of life around something universal—food and drink—and in doing so, it breaks barriers and builds connections that extend far beyond the event itself.”

Since its inception, the GTCO Food and Drink Festival has positioned itself as one of Africa’s most prominent culinary gatherings, attracting participation from across Nigeria and increasingly from the wider continent and diaspora.

Admission remains free and open to all, reaffirming the Festival’s commitment to accessibility as a consumer-focused event that brings people together through food, drink, culture, and enterprise.

For more information on the event, please visit: https://foodanddrink.gtcoplc.com

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