The people of Ado-Awaye Community in Oyo State have appealed to the state government to urgently reconstruct the 27-kilometre Ado-Awaye–Ilua–Okeho Inter-Community Road, citing its deteriorating condition and the hardship it has caused residents and other road users.

The appeal was contained in a letter of appreciation addressed to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in which the community commended the governor for his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, and rural development across the state.

The community noted that the Ado-Awaye–Ilua–Okeho road serves as a vital link connecting Ado-Awaye with neighbouring communities and facilitates the movement of people, agricultural produce, and commercial goods.

According to the community, the road has remained in a deplorable condition for a considerable period, with deep potholes, erosion, and inadequate drainage making transportation difficult, particularly during the rainy season.

The residents said the poor state of the road had contributed to frequent vehicle breakdowns, accidents, security concerns, increased transportation costs, delays in the movement of goods, and hardship for residents, traders, students, and other road users.

They further explained that Ado-Awaye and adjoining communities are predominantly agrarian, stressing that the poor condition of the road had adversely affected the transportation of farm produce to urban markets, thereby contributing to post-harvest losses and discouraging potential investors.

The community also expressed concern that the state of the road had hindered access to essential services, including healthcare, education, and security.

The residents appealed to Governor Makinde to use his good office to approve and facilitate the urgent reconstruction of the 27-kilometre road, noting that the project would enhance socio-economic activities, improve security, reduce transportation costs, stimulate commercial growth, and promote the overall welfare of the people.

They expressed confidence that the reconstruction of the road would align with the governor’s commitment to sustainable rural development and infrastructural renewal across Oyo State.

The community further appealed to the governor to ensure that the project is completed before the end of his administration, while assuring him of their continued prayers, loyalty, and support.

Representatives of the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, have called for global recognition and scientific validation of African traditional medicine as part of efforts to promote indigenous healthcare and sustainable development.

The delegation, which formed part of the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s team currently in Brazil, made the call during the Brazil-Nigeria High-Level Bilateral Meeting on Traditional Medicine and Scientific Cooperation held at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Nigeria and Brazil in the areas of traditional medicine, medicinal plant research, technology transfer, academic exchange and public health innovation.

A statement issued on Saturday by the Senior Media Officer to the Ooni, Sodiq Lawal, said the meeting concluded with the adoption of a comprehensive implementation roadmap to guide bilateral cooperation in traditional medicine and related fields.

The delegation advocated a strategic partnership between Nigeria and Brazil that would combine indigenous knowledge with modern scientific research to improve healthcare delivery and promote sustainable development.

Representing the Ooni at the summit were the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Otunba Moses Olafare, and the President of Oduduwa Heritage Home in Brazil and International Consultant to the World Orisa Congress (WOOCON), Ajoyemi Olabisi Osunleye.

The high-level meeting brought together representatives of Fiocruz, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Royal Palace of the Ooni of Ife, Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Harvard University, Brazil’s Ministry of Racial Equality and the African Pride delegation.

Participants explored opportunities to deepen South-South cooperation in traditional medicine, medicinal plant research, human milk banking and academic training.

The meeting also reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to scientifically validate traditional medicine practices and promote the integration of evidence-based indigenous healthcare into formal health systems.

Participants reviewed the ongoing Harvard-Brazil-Nigeria metabolomics research involving 68 medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of diabetes. Discussions were also held on expanding the research to cover other therapeutic products with potential medical value.

The summit further recognised a collection of about 500 medicinal plants that have already been studied and scientifically validated in Brazil, describing the body of knowledge as a strong foundation for future collaborative research between Nigerian and Brazilian institutions.

Another key outcome of the meeting was an agreement to support the establishment of a Human Milk Bank in Nigeria. The initiative is expected to leverage the technical expertise of the Pan American Health Organisation/World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre and the extensive experience of Fiocruz in the field.

The participants also linked the Brazil-Nigeria partnership to broader global climate initiatives, including the International Savanna Forum and COP31, scheduled to hold in September in Goiânia, Brazil.

They identified biodiversity conservation, healthcare innovation and social technology as critical areas for future collaboration, stressing the need for stronger international partnerships to harness Africa’s indigenous knowledge and natural resources for the benefit of humanity.

The development marks a significant step in efforts to strengthen Brazil-Nigeria cooperation and position African traditional medicine for greater international recognition through scientific research, validation and responsible integration into modern healthcare systems.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State for the 2027 election, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has expressed confidence that ongoing reconciliation efforts within the party will result in a united and formidable political force ahead of the poll.

Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, disclosed this while speaking at a Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) programme tagged “A Day with BSA.”

The APC standard-bearer said efforts to reconcile aggrieved members and resolve internal differences within the party were already yielding positive results, stressing that the party was determined to put its house in order ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to him, restoring unity within the APC became one of his immediate priorities following his emergence as the party’s governorship candidate.

He said consultations with party leaders, stakeholders and other critical groups across the state were ongoing as part of efforts to build a stronger and more inclusive party ahead of the election.

Alli expressed optimism that the ongoing engagements would help heal existing divisions and strengthen the APC’s chances of reclaiming the Oyo State Government House in 2027.

He said the party could not afford to approach the election divided, noting that unity, effective mobilisation and a clear development agenda would be central to the APC’s campaign.

Beyond party reconciliation, Alli also unveiled some of the policy priorities that would guide his administration’s first 100 days in office if elected governor of Oyo State.

He placed education among the key sectors that would receive immediate attention under his administration, promising to restore quality and effective public education across the state.

The APC candidate specifically pledged to reduce overcrowding in public schools by ensuring that class sizes in public primary and secondary schools do not exceed 30 pupils per classroom.

He said the policy was aimed at creating a better learning environment for pupils and students while improving the ability of teachers to provide effective and personalised attention to learners.

Alli further stressed the need for sustained investment in the education sector, describing quality education as a critical foundation for the development of Oyo State and the preparation of its young people for future opportunities.

The senator said his administration, if elected, would focus on policies and programmes capable of improving the standard of living of residents, strengthening public institutions and creating an environment conducive to economic growth.

He urged residents of Oyo State and APC members to support the party’s efforts to build a united political structure capable of providing what he described as purposeful and people-oriented leadership.

With the 2027 governorship election drawing closer, Alli’s remarks are expected to further shape the APC’s campaign narrative as the party intensifies efforts to consolidate its structure and position itself as a strong contender for power in Oyo State.

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.