By Oluwabimisayo Omoremi

Residents of Ofiki community in Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, are beginning to explore new economic opportunities from cashew production following a community-based intervention led by Slow Food Network Nigeria, with support from Slow Food International Headquarters (HQ) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The initiative has empowered more than 30 women with starter seed kits for household gardens, trained over 40 farmers and community members in agroecological farming, and equipped more than 20 women and men with post-harvest processing and agricultural valorisation skills focused on cashew apples.

Although Oke-Ogun is one of Oyo State’s leading cashew-producing regions, the economic value of the crop has traditionally focused largely on cashew nuts, leaving large quantities of cashew apples to rot during harvest seasons. The project seeks to address this challenge by raising awareness about the nutritional and commercial potential of cashew apples and helping residents convert what was previously considered agricultural waste into opportunities for food security, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihoods.

The initiative also challenged residents to rethink their understanding of agricultural waste. One of the collaborators, Mrs. Adejumoke Olowookere, founder of OlowoWaste (Waste Museum), urged the community to recognise the potential value of resources available on its land, stressing that what is commonly regarded as waste can become a valuable resource through knowledge, innovation and local enterprise. Her message reinforced the project’s central theme of encouraging residents to identify opportunities in resources they have long overlooked and explore innovative ways of putting them to productive use.

As part of the intervention, community members were trained to process cashew apples into fresh cashew juice, cashew chutney, cashew cooking sauce, dehydrated cashew apple snacks resembling raisins or dates, and nutrient-rich animal feed. The practical demonstrations reportedly changed participants’ perceptions of the fruit, while the slogan “Ofiki Gold, Kari Aye,” meaning “Ofiki Gold, to the World,” was adopted as the brand identity for the newly developed cashew products.

The project also exposed community representatives to modern food processing technologies through a visit to the National Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), where participants received hands-on training in the use of commercial food dehydrators and drying equipment. The exposure is intended to prepare the community for the establishment of similar processing facilities in Ofiki ahead of the next cashew harvest season, while strengthening links between research institutions and rural communities.

Beyond cashew processing, more than 40 participants received training in agroecological practices, including soil health improvement, composting, biodiversity conservation, sustainable agriculture and the production of natural farm inputs using locally available resources. Agroecology expert Mr. Opeolu Oluseesi (Agbelere) of Green Growers Nigeria encouraged residents to see the community’s abundant neem trees as valuable agricultural assets that could support the production of natural crop protection products and bio-inputs. The agroecology component has now entered its implementation phase, with soil analysis underway on a demonstration farm, while the Aare Alawoekun of Ofiki, His Royal Majesty Oba Gbenga Adeoye, donated three acres of land for the community’s agroecology demonstration farm.

The initiative also distributed starter seed kits to more than 30 women to establish household gardens aimed at improving family nutrition and reducing household food expenditure. With home gardens taking root, the demonstration farm underway and preparations beginning for community-scale cashew processing, the initiative is positioning Ofiki as a potential model for agricultural resource utilisation, food loss reduction and rural enterprise development. Through the combination of agroecology, value addition and community knowledge, residents are being encouraged to transform overlooked local resources into sustainable opportunities for improved food security, income generation and community development.

The gift of life is not to be taken for granted, for none of us is promised tomorrow. Therefore, having a day like this set aside to pay tribute to a pillar of youth empowerment brings great joy.

Mr. Tayo Koleosho is an exemplary leader and a devoted public servant. Currently serving as the Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS), his dedication to ensuring young people have a better future and attain leadership positions speaks volumes about his genuine love for the progress of the younger generation.

Looking at his remarkable journey—as the Chief of Staff to the Executive Chairman of the NRS, Special Adviser on ICT, and Commissioner for Integration and Inter-governmental Affairs under the late Governor Ajimobi, among other notable responsibilities—his career stands as a clear testament to his dedication to service, people-centered leadership, and commitment to good governance. Across these roles, he has consistently demonstrated vision, humility, and an unwavering passion for youth development and community advancement.

True riches are not found in castles or chariots, but in the number of lives impacted. By this standard, Oga Tayo Koleosho is a truly wealthy man. He has been a beacon of hope to young people and a fierce promoter of their interests. His penchant for nurturing and positioning young minds is unparalleled. Through his support, many youth have secured a brighter future, and his continued mentorship ensures they blossom and impact their respective communities.

He remains a true inspiration and role model whose leadership continues to inspire and positively influence countless individuals. This is particularly true for the young people who look up to his life of service, resilience, and integrity. His benevolence has left a lasting impression on many lives. He believes in the potential of every individual and will go to any length to help others.

As he marks another year today, may his years ahead be filled with peace, fulfillment, and even greater accomplishments in service to humanity. Once again, happy birthday, and congratulations on another year of an impactful life!

A seven-year-old Nigerian artist, Kendis, has received a life-changing reward after his impressive portrait of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as YAYI, captured widespread attention on social media.

The young artist’s extraordinary talent won the admiration of thousands of Nigerians, with many praising his creativity and artistic brilliance despite his tender age. The portrait quickly went viral, drawing commendations from admirers across the country.

In recognition of the remarkable artwork and to encourage the child’s exceptional potential, Senator Adeola awarded Kendis a full educational scholarship covering his studies from his current level through university. The Senator also presented the young artist with a cash gift of ₦2.5 million.

The gesture has been widely applauded as a significant investment in youth development and a demonstration of the importance of nurturing young talents. Many Nigerians have described the reward as both inspiring and deserving, expressing hope that it will motivate other gifted children to pursue their dreams.

The story of Kendis has since become a symbol of how talent, when recognized and supported, can open doors to life-changing opportunities. His achievement continues to inspire parents, educators, and young creatives across the country.

Says Accord Party Will Rule Nigeria in 2027

The Gbenga Hashim Solidarity Movement (GHSM) has rejected what it described as an “illegal, politically contrived and inconsequential gathering” at the Osun State Government House, Osogbo, where Governor Ademola Adeleke and some Accord Party officials were reported to have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement issued Monday by its National Coordinator, GHSM said the meeting had no constitutional basis and cannot override the will of Accord Party members.

“No beer parlour meeting in Osogbo can determine the Presidential direction of the Accord Party. The mandate of Accord members given to Dr. Gbenga Hashim on May 30, 2026 cannot be traded inside any Government House,” the group stated.

GHSM insisted that Nigerians already know who carries the Accord Party’s Presidential banner.

It noted that Dr. Gbenga Hashim emerged as the party’s presidential candidate on May 30, 2026, through a Nationwide Direct Primary conducted in compliance with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines.

“That mandate cannot be overturned by press statements, political bargaining or backroom deals,” the group said.

“No meeting convened outside the constitutional structures of the Accord Party can extinguish the mandate freely given to Dr. Hashim.”

The Movement described the alleged endorsement of President Tinubu as “null, unconstitutional and without political consequence.”

GHSM accused Governor Adeleke of pursuing anti-party activities and alleged that state resources were being deployed to hijack the Accord Party and subordinate its Presidential project to another political party.

“The Nigerian people will never accept a One-Party State or a sole Presidential candidate imposed through political intimidation and institutional manipulation.
Accord belongs to its members, not to politicians seeking temporary political advantage,” the statement added.

The Movement expressed confidence that Dr. Hashim would emerge victorious in 2027, describing him as “the most credible and unifying alternative before Nigerians.”

It said supporters across the country’s 774 Local Government Areas would intensify mobilisation to ensure that “the will of the people prevails over political conspiracy.”

GHSM noted that the dispute over the Accord Party’s Presidential nomination remains before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings have been concluded and judgement reserved.

It argued that attempts to make pronouncements on issues before the court were inappropriate and contemptuous and reaffirmed that Dr. Hashim would pursue the matter to its logical conclusion through all available judicial processes, including the highest court.

“The 2027 election will not be decided in Government Houses. It will be decided by Nigerians. No amount of political theatre can stop the rising National momentum behind the Hashim Project,” it concluded.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State and leaders of a faction of the Accord Party have reportedly adopted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as their preferred presidential candidate for the 2027 election.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by Pelumi Olajengbesi, spokesperson for the Adeleke re-election campaign.

According to the statement, Adeleke and leaders of the Accord Party faction met on Saturday night in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, where they held extensive discussions on issues confronting the party and the political direction ahead of the 2027 general election.

The meeting reportedly focused on strengthening political cooperation and addressing challenges within the party, while also considering the broader political landscape ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The reported decision by the faction to back President Tinubu’s 2027 presidential ambition is expected to generate further political reactions in Osun State and beyond, especially as political parties and various interest groups continue to realign ahead of the 2027 elections.

The statement did not provide further details on the terms of the reported political arrangement or whether the decision represents the official position of the entire Accord Party.

The development comes amid ongoing political realignments across the country as political actors begin preparations for the 2027 general elections.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Babachir Lawal, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a kind and compassionate person who listened to advice and went to great lengths to help people before he became Nigeria’s president.

Lawal, while reflecting on his relationship with the president, described Tinubu as an “excellent human being” who was always willing to assist people facing difficulties. According to him, Tinubu was a good listener, receptive to advice and sympathetic to the plight of others.

The former SGF said he once likened Tinubu’s character to that of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whom he also described as a kind and sympathetic person.

However, Lawal claimed that Tinubu’s personality and approach changed after he assumed the presidency. He said something happened to the president after he became head of state, leading to a significant change in the person he previously knew.

Lawal said he was aware of the period when Tinubu began to change and claimed that he personally told the president about it. According to him, the change became noticeable around 2022, when Tinubu relocated to Abuja as part of his efforts to pursue his presidential ambition.

He further alleged that, during that period, Tinubu became surrounded by some of his northern associates and friends, who, in his words, “caged him.” Lawal suggested that the people around the president had influenced his accessibility and decision-making, contrasting the situation with the Tinubu he knew before his presidency.

The comments by Lawal have added to the ongoing public debate about President Tinubu’s leadership style and the influence of those around him. His remarks, however, represent his personal assessment of the president’s transformation before and after assuming office.

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered the immediate repair of the newly commissioned ₦8.52 billion Lameco Flyover in Osogbo, following the sinking and development of visible defects on a section of the 672-metre bridge less than a month after it was opened to the public.

The flyover, commissioned by Adeleke on July 1, 2026, reportedly developed a depression and cracks on one lane after prolonged rainfall in Osogbo. The affected section was subsequently cordoned off, with security personnel deployed to restrict access while concerns were raised by motorists and residents over the safety of the structure.

Following an inspection of the site, Governor Adeleke ordered engineers from the Osun State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to commence immediate repairs. He also directed enhanced surveillance and monitoring of key public infrastructure across the state, saying public assets must be protected from acts that could undermine their usefulness to residents.

Adeleke attributed the damage to alleged political sabotage and vandalism, accusing unnamed political elements of attempting to undermine his administration’s infrastructure projects. He condemned the development and called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible, while urging politicians to focus on presenting their records and programmes to the electorate rather than targeting public infrastructure.

The development, however, has triggered a political controversy, with opposition voices rejecting the sabotage explanation. The Osun State APC has argued that the defects raise questions about the quality of construction and the structural integrity of the project, calling for an independent assessment by qualified professionals and urging that the bridge remain closed until experts certify it safe for public use.

The APC’s position contrasts with claims from the Accord Party, which supported the government’s allegation that the damage was linked to sabotage and alleged that opposition elements were seeking to discredit the Adeleke administration ahead of the forthcoming governorship election. The competing claims have intensified the political debate surrounding the project, with calls for a transparent investigation into the actual cause of the damage.

The Lameco Flyover was presented by the Adeleke administration as a major infrastructure project and part of its broader road and flyover development programme in Osun State. With the structure now undergoing urgent attention, the immediate focus is on determining the precise cause of the defect, ensuring the safety of motorists and commuters, and restoring the flyover to a condition that meets the required structural and engineering standards.

Obasanjo made the allegation in a statement responding to former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, over his account of the political events surrounding the 2003 general elections.

In the statement, titled “Reply to Your Inaccurate Posture: How Obasanjo Deceived Us in 2003,” the former President rejected Osoba’s claims that he deceived leaders of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and Afenifere during political negotiations ahead of the 2003 elections.

Obasanjo also revisited the impeachment threat that confronted his administration during his first term, alleging that the move was initiated by Atiku, who was then Vice-President.

According to him, Atiku invited Na’Abba to his office on a Friday while Obasanjo was away and allegedly persuaded the Speaker that the President should serve only one term.

Obasanjo claimed that Atiku subsequently gave Na’Abba ₦5 million to commence the impeachment process.

“On the Friday, he invited Na’Abba; he gave him N5 million to begin his impeachment work. It was all noted, recorded and reported to me by my Chief of Staff, a professional intelligence officer,” Obasanjo alleged.

The former President said he was not intimidated by the impeachment threat because, in his view, there was no constitutional basis for removing him from office.

Obasanjo further alleged that the impeachment effort was part of a broader political strategy by Atiku to position himself to succeed him as President.

He claimed that the move eventually failed and that subsequent political arrangements were pursued ahead of the 2003 general elections.

Obasanjo also maintained that he never deceived the leadership of the AD or Afenifere, arguing that Osoba’s account of the political developments of the period was inaccurate and incomplete.

The former President’s allegations have, however, been rejected by Atiku Abubakar. The former Vice-President, through his spokesperson, dismissed the claim that he bribed Na’Abba to pursue Obasanjo’s impeachment, describing the allegation as reckless and questioning why it was being raised after the late Speaker could no longer respond to it.

Atiku’s camp also suggested that the timing of the allegation was politically motivated, particularly in the context of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

The exchange has reignited debate over the political tensions between Obasanjo and Atiku, who served together as President and Vice-President between 1999 and 2007 before their relationship deteriorated.

The latest allegations have also brought renewed attention to the political struggles within the administration in the early years of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and the events surrounding the 2003 presidential election.

While Obasanjo has maintained that Atiku was behind the impeachment effort, Atiku has denied the allegation. The claims therefore remain part of the competing accounts of the political events of that period.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerian doctors and other healthcare professionals living abroad to return home and contribute their expertise to the transformation of the country’s health sector.

The President made the call in Abuja while receiving a delegation of Nigerian medical and healthcare professionals in the diaspora as part of activities marking the 2026 National Diaspora Day.

Tinubu appealed to the professionals to consider returning to Nigeria and joining efforts to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, stressing that their knowledge, experience and expertise acquired abroad could play a significant role in improving healthcare delivery in the country.

Addressing the delegation, the President emphasised the importance of contributing to national development and encouraged Nigerians living abroad to see the country as a place where they could make meaningful contributions.

“I can tell you there’s nowhere like home. Some people built the society where you are… their focus was to develop their nation,” Tinubu told the medical professionals.

The President noted that the development of any nation requires the commitment and contributions of its citizens, urging Nigerian professionals in the diaspora to consider bringing their skills and experience back home.

He said the Federal Government is committed to creating an environment that would encourage professionals to return and contribute to national development.

The President’s appeal comes amid ongoing concerns over the migration of Nigerian doctors and other healthcare professionals abroad, a trend commonly referred to as the “Japa” phenomenon, which has raised concerns about the availability of skilled medical personnel in the country.

The Federal Government has continued to emphasise the need to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, improve working conditions for medical professionals and expand access to quality healthcare services.

Tinubu urged the diaspora community to see themselves as important partners in Nigeria’s development, stressing that their contributions could help accelerate progress across critical sectors, including healthcare.

The President’s call to Nigerian doctors abroad is expected to further stimulate discussions on strategies to reverse the brain drain in the health sector and encourage the return of highly skilled professionals to support the country’s healthcare transformation agenda.

The 2026 National Diaspora Day provides an opportunity for the Federal Government and Nigerians in the diaspora to deepen engagement, strengthen collaboration and explore ways of harnessing the expertise and resources of citizens living outside the country for national development.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has challenged Nigerian universities to move beyond conventional classroom teaching and research by developing practical, evidence-based solutions to the country’s pressing challenges, particularly food insecurity, insecurity, climate change and technological backwardness.

The President made the call in a message delivered at the 56th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he urged the nation’s academic institutions to play a more active role in addressing challenges affecting the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.

Tinubu stressed the need for universities to strengthen research and innovation that can translate into tangible solutions, particularly in the agricultural sector, as part of efforts to improve food production and achieve greater food security.

According to the President, Nigerian universities possess the intellectual capacity and human resources required to help the country overcome its developmental challenges. He therefore called on academics to focus more on research that responds directly to national needs and produces measurable impact.

He emphasised that universities should contribute to the development of innovative approaches capable of increasing agricultural productivity, improving food systems and supporting sustainable development.

The President also identified insecurity, climate change and the country’s technological gap among the critical areas requiring stronger collaboration between government, universities and other stakeholders.

Tinubu’s call comes amid the Federal Government’s broader efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s food security through increased agricultural production, research, technology and investment in the agricultural value chain.

He urged the academic community to embrace a more solution-oriented approach, saying the nation’s universities must become important drivers of national development rather than institutions focused solely on teaching and theoretical research.

The President further encouraged universities to deepen partnerships with government and industry, commercialise relevant research findings and ensure that innovations developed within academic institutions are translated into practical applications that can improve the economy and the well-being of citizens.

He noted that addressing Nigeria’s challenges would require collective action, with universities playing a central role in generating knowledge, nurturing innovation and providing evidence-based policy recommendations.

The President’s charge reinforces the growing emphasis on using research, science and technology to transform Nigeria’s agricultural sector and strengthen national food security.

Tinubu said the Federal Government remains committed to creating an environment where knowledge and innovation can contribute meaningfully to solving the country’s most urgent challenges.

He called on Nigerian universities to rise to the occasion by producing research and innovations that can help Nigeria achieve sustainable food production, improve security, address climate-related challenges and close the technological gap.