Human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, on Monday led a protest to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, demanding improved welfare and the removal of police officers from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The protest, held in collaboration with the Nigerian Union of Retired Police Officers, attracted several aggrieved retirees who decried years of neglect and hardship under the current pension system.
Protesters were initially blocked from entering the Force Headquarters but were later escorted by police personnel to the National Assembly complex.
Chanting solidarity songs in the rain, they carried placards with messages such as: “Decent Salaries Now,” “End Police Slavery,” “CPS is a Death Sentence,” and “Dignity for Those in Uniform.”
Speaking during the protest, Sowore called the CPS “exploitative and unjust,” urging the National Assembly to initiate urgent reforms that would restore dignity to retired police officers.
He said many of the retirees live in poverty after years of serving the country and called on the government to act with urgency.
The retired officers vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until concrete legislative action is taken.
In a strategic move aimed at strengthening health systems and improving planning efficiency, the Oyo State Ministry of Health in collaboration Nigeria Health Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) organized a four-day capacity-building programme for health sector leaders and managers across the 33 Local Government Areas of the state.
The training, which held at the Ibadan Business School in Ibadan, Oyo State capital between Monday 14th July to 17th July 2025 was themed “NHSRII Leadership Health Systems Strengthening and Planning: Capacity Development for Health Program Officers and Health Secretaries (Medical Officers of Health) across all the 33 Local Government Health Authorities (LGHAs).” It seeks to enhance the technical and leadership capabilities of key players in the health sector, particularly about the development of a unified and realistic operational plan and realistic health budget for Oyo State.
Speaking during the opening session, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stressed the need for collaboration and synergy among all departments, programme officers, and stakeholders involved in the delivery of healthcare services.
“It is time for us as a state to operate as one cohesive team. All program officers, directors, and partners must unite to set realistic and measurable goals for the improvement of healthcare in Oyo State,” Dr. Ajetunmobi stated.
“Currently, different sectors function in silos, but this training aims to harmonize efforts under a single plan, a single budget, and a unified reporting system. This is critical for our journey toward Universal Health Coverage and for achieving better health outcomes, especially in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates,” she added.
The commissioner further noted that the four-day workshop will form the foundation for the development of the 2026 Annual Operational Plan (AOP) for the State Ministry of Health. She emphasized that representatives from all health-related institutions in the state, including Colleges of Nursing Sciences, Health Science and Technology, LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Primary Health Care Board, Hospital Management Board, and the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, are participating in the training.
Dr. Oluwatunmise, the State Coordinator for the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), explained that the program is part of a national reform agenda aimed at realigning Nigeria’s health system with global best practices.
“This training was born out of the challenges we encountered while developing last year’s AOP. The current administration, upon reviewing the progress since Nigeria’s first health sector reforms in 1962, concluded that fundamental change is overdue,” Dr. Oluwatunmise explained.
“With the SWAp model, the government assumes full leadership and coordination of the health sector. We’re moving away from fragmented efforts to a unified ‘One Plan’ approach that ensures all MDAs work collaboratively and efficiently.”
This year, the AOP process is being upgraded from an Excel-based format to a modern, web-based platform, enabling easier access, better collaboration, and enhanced accountability.
One of the participants, Feranmi Oladiti, National Health Fellow, expressed optimism about the impact of the training.
“We’re here to understand how to align our state-level plans with the National Health Sector Strategic Plan. This training is essential in helping us structure our operational plans to be both impactful and aligned with national goals,” Oladiti said.
The Oyo State health sector comprises seven key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), all of which are actively participating in the training. These include: • Oyo State Ministry of Health • Oyo State Health Insurance Agency • State Primary Health Care Board • Hospital Management Board • LAUTECH Teaching Hospital • Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences • Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology
The training is expected to produce a comprehensive, well-coordinated roadmap for health sector planning, ultimately contributing to improved service delivery and better health outcomes for residents of Oyo State. It also forms part of a broader national strategy to standardize and enhance health sector planning across Nigeria.
The training ended in grandstyle on thursday with all participants having practical hands on sessions on the new web based AOP Framework.
The Royal Group also known as Egbe Omo Alade Ile Ibadan, an affiliate Socio-Cultural Group of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) on Saturday 19th July 2025 elected new executive council members that will pilot the affairs of the club for another two years.
The election which was held at the Ibadan House, Oke-Aremo had in attendance members of the club and was conducted by Prince Yahya Adanla led electoral committee.
Announcing the result, Prince Abiodun Muraina the secretary of the electoral committee on behalf of the electoral chairman and the committee announced Prince Akewula Kamikun re-elected to serve for another two years.
Prince Kamikun alongside the other four who served in the recently dissolved excos were returned by the club members with three new additional members who got elected to serve in different capacities.
Prince Akewula Kamikun returned as President, Prince (Dr) Tunmise Adeagbo returned as Vice-president, Prince Oluwatobi Adisa returned as Executive Secretary, Prince Adeniran Ayodele returned as Public Relations Officer & Prince Azeez Ademola returned as Social Secretary.
Also, Prince Lukman Falada was elected as Financial Secretary, Prince Saheed Okunlola elected as Treasurer and Prince ‘Kayode Ajani was elected as Assistant General Secretary of the club.
The new excos were sworn-in thereby and an oath-of-office was administered by Prince (Barrister) Wale Agbaje on behalf of the electoral committee.
The President, Prince Akewula Kamikun appreciated the club on behalf of the new executives and reiterated their commitment to the development of Ibadan land and advancement of the club, he assured members of greater improvement and strong consolidation on the existing achievement, and sought for the cooperation of every members.
In a decisive move against rising criminal activities, security operatives of the Ilorin South Local Government Council have apprehended three suspected serial kidnappers believed to be behind recent abductions along the Idofian Road axis.
The suspects were arrested during a pre-dawn raid on their hideout in Abelu, following actionable intelligence gathered by the council’s security team. Authorities disclosed that the hideout had served as an operational base for the gang, which has terrorized residents and commuters for weeks.
A bicycle, allegedly used by the suspects as a decoy to pose as harmless cyclists while scouting potential victims, was recovered during the operation. Security sources say the gang employed the strategy to evade suspicion before launching attacks.
Speaking on the breakthrough, the Executive Chairman of Ilorin South Local Government Council, Hon. Nuhu Majeed Podo, praised the operatives for their swift action, stressing that the council remains fully committed to safeguarding lives and property.
“This operation is a clear testament to the effectiveness of our renewed security strategy and the vigilance of our local security network,” Podo stated. “We will not rest until Ilorin South is rid of criminal gangs and residents can move freely without fear.”
The arrested suspects are currently being interrogated, with investigations underway to determine the full extent of their network and whether they are linked to other kidnapping cases in Kwara State.
Authorities have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, adding that community intelligence remains critical in the fight against crime.
The council also reiterated its pledge to continue strengthening local security architecture, including collaborations with state and federal agencies, to keep the area safe.
Fakayode emphasised the significance of adhering to traditional laws and customs, asserting, “Any actions contrary to this judgment and the laws of the land would be a disregard for the customs and traditions that have been the cornerstone of our heritage.”
“The burial was not in consonance with the law of the state, and it is obvious that the burial arrangement contravened Part 8, Section 55, Sub-section II of the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law.”
He stressed that the issue extended beyond mere burial rites, representing a challenge to the very fabric of Yoruba customs.
“The actions taken at the event were part of a larger agenda to erode the cultural practices that have defined us for generations.”
“We urge the sons and daughters of Ijebu-Ode and the entire Yoruba race to recognise that the institution of Obaship is not only a sacred tradition but also a choice that demands respect for our cultural heritage.”
“We condemn the disrespect shown to the Osugbo Confraternity during the event by the family of the late Oba, government officials, and the security agencies concerned. Furthermore, to prevent such occurrences in the future, we will take necessary legal actions.”
On his part, Barrister Opeodu, the legal representative of ICIR, echoed the sentiments, stating that the actions of the late monarch’s family, the Ogun State Government, and various law enforcement agencies posed a threat to democracy and infringe upon the fundamental rights of traditional believers.
“In consonance, the actions of these parties constitute a threat to the growth of democracy and an infringement on the fundamental rights of traditional believers to their own beliefs.”
“This is an aberration to the extant law regarding the installation and burial of Obas and Chiefs, leading to a state of anarchy.”
He criticised the Islamic clergies, led by the Chief Imam of Ijebu-Ode, for violating local laws, asserting that their actions reflect a lawless character inherent in their practices.
“The traditional institution, being a lawful entity, is guided by law, unlike the Islamic religion. The traditionalists will take appropriate legal action to seek remedy,” he affirmed.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has sounded the alarm over a wave of infectious disease outbreaks sweeping across the country, warning that Nigeria faces a serious public health crisis if urgent and coordinated action is not taken.
In an official alert released Friday via its website, the NCDC listed five major diseases currently surging across multiple states: cholera, dengue fever, Mpox, diphtheria, and yellow fever—all requiring immediate national attention.
According to the update covering epidemiological week 26 (June 23–29, 2025), suspected cholera cases have been reported in 34 states, with Zamfara State alone accounting for 32% of all cases. Other heavily affected states include Bayelsa, Adamawa, Delta, Lagos, and Rivers.
“The situation demands heightened vigilance and intensified response efforts from all stakeholders,” the agency warned.
Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, leads to severe diarrhoea, dehydration, and, in severe cases, death if untreated. The outbreak is being worsened by poor sanitation and unsafe drinking water.
The NCDC also confirmed an outbreak of dengue fever in Edo State between June 9 and 13 following laboratory investigations. Like yellow fever, dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes and thrives in areas with poor waste management and standing water.
Yellow fever itself has now been confirmed in Abia, Anambra, Edo, Ekiti, Lagos, and Rivers states, with seven cases verified as of the last report.
“The yellow fever vaccine remains the most effective prevention strategy,” the NCDC emphasized.
Ongoing cases of Mpox and diphtheria were also highlighted. Mpox presents with fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, while diphtheria causes painful throat infections and dangerous breathing difficulties.
The NCDC urged Nigerians to:
Eliminate mosquito breeding sites
Sleep under insecticide-treated nets
Use insect repellents
Maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene
Avoid self-medication
Seek medical testing promptly, especially as dengue and yellow fever symptoms often resemble malaria
As the threat level rises, health experts say public awareness, preventive behaviour, and swift government response will be critical in curbing the spread of these life-threatening diseases.
Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Is’haq Oloyede, has criticised some Nigerian universities over what he called the indiscriminate and devalued awarding of honorary degrees.
Oloyede made the remarks on Wednesday during the University of Ilorin’s 50th anniversary celebration in Ilorin.
Speaking at the investiture of 65 distinguished Nigerians, including 50 ambassadors, 10 alumni, and two recipients of the Award of Excellence, Oloyede said the culture of awarding honorary degrees without merit has eroded the value and dignity once associated with such honours. “Honorary degrees have become worthless,” he declared.
Oloyede praised the University of Ilorin for distancing itself from this trend. “I was part of the team then, during my time as VC, who said the University of Ilorin should not be part of the maddening crowd of awarding honorary degrees,” he said. “I can’t remember any in the last 20 years, just because we want to be different.”
The JAMB boss also lauded the current Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, for what he described as a “creative and dignified” approach to recognising excellence. He added that even the most prestigious honorary degrees could not match the impact made by the university’s new form of recognition.
“Some people even send their drivers to represent them to pick up the awards, just because it has become worthless,” Oloyede said. “From us, we say this is a big honour and we pledge to continue to serve this university, this nation, and humanity at large.”
In his response, Prof. Egbewole explained that the ambassadors were nominated by their faculties and confirmed by the university’s Centre for Advancement. He said the recipients were chosen based on merit and consistent contributions to the university’s growth.
“These individuals have consistently demonstrated loyalty to the values of our university,” Egbewole noted. “Some honourees were added in recognition of their extraordinary acts of generosity and support, reaffirming the saying that one good turn deserves another.”
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially renamed the University of Maiduguri in honour of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. The institution will henceforth be known as Muhammadu Buhari University, Maiduguri.
President Tinubu made the announcement on Thursday during an extended session of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) held at the State House, Abuja. The special session, attended by current cabinet members and members of Buhari’s former administration, was convened in honour of the late statesman, who passed away on Sunday.
Buhari, who died at approximately 4:30 p.m. in London at the age of 82, was Nigeria’s former military Head of State and later, a democratically elected president. He is widely remembered for his austere leadership style, integrity, and strong stance against corruption.
Kosodo, Ojagbo and its environs in Ibadan witnessed a historic moment yesterday as a newly constructed Primary Health Centre (PHC) was officially commissioned, thanks to the visionary efforts and philanthropic gesture of Mogaji Samson Olukayode Taiwo.
During the commissioning event, Mogaji Taiwo pledged to donate medications worth ₦500,000 annually for the next ten years, to ensure consistent pharmaceutical support for the centre. The event drew dignitaries and well-wishers from within and outside Ibadan, including the Chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government, friends and associates who showed strong solidarity through additional donations.Among notable supporters was Mogaji Aboderin Kudeti of Ibadan, who announced a ₦500,000 donation in support of the facility. Also present was Honourable Obasa from Lagos, who served as Chairman of the Day. Hon. Obasa made a generous donation of ₦1 million on behalf of House Eleven club of Lagos and another ₦1 million on behalf himself. Furthermore, Hon. Obasa pledged to provide drugs monthly for the next 24 months, on behalf of Biomedical Laboratories, a medical organization where he serves as chairman and Mogaji Taiwo is a director, reinforcing their commitment to sustainable healthcare for the Taiwo-Alaka community.
Speaking at the event, Mogaji Taiwo expressed gratitude to His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde for his one health care per ward initiative which made the process easy and faster, equally, he appreciated the Chairman of Ibadan North East Local Government, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo and the Executive Secretary of Oyo State Primary Health Care, Dr. Muideen Olatunji for their support.
Furthermore, he acknowledged the support of the donors and guests, stating that the Taiwo-Alaka PHC is more than just a facility — it is a legacy of service, compassion, and hope. “This centre is a dream come true, not just for our compound but for everyone who believes healthcare should be within reach. We are not stopping here; this is only the beginning,” he said.The commissioning of the Taiwo-Alaka Primary Health Centre is expected to significantly improve access to basic medical services for residents, especially women, children, and the elderly, and stands as a shining example of community-led development and healthcare reform.
In a remarkable show of community commitment, Mogaji Taiwo donated two plots of land to the local government to facilitate the construction of the health facility, which is set to serve residents of his compound and the broader surrounding environment.The newly commissioned health centre, named “Taiwo-Alaka Primary Health Centre,” marks a significant milestone in grassroots healthcare delivery in Ibadan. The project not only provides essential medical services to a previously underserved community but also symbolizes the power of individual leadership in community development.
Angela Peters, a 56-year-old mother of five and grandmother of 12 from Australia, has defied age and public opinion to welcome twin daughters with her 39-year-old Nigerian husband, Bright, a journey she calls a miracle years in the making.
Peters first connected with Bright in 2020 through a dating app while chatting with his older brother, Emeka, who lived in Senegal. Although the initial connection didn’t blossom, she was drawn to Bright after Emeka shared a family photo. “It was like a thunderbolt, I knew this was the man I was meant to be with,” she told The Sun UK.
At the time, Peters was based in Australia, and Bright was working as a cook in South Africa. The pair began a long-distance relationship, which led Peters to travel to Nigeria in February 2021. Just nine days after meeting in person, they were married in a civil ceremony in Lagos.
“The kids were horrified when I called to tell them, but I knew that once they met Bright, they’d understand,” she recalled. Peters had previously divorced in 2019 after years in what she described as an unfulfilling marriage. Though she hadn’t planned on having more children, she was touched by Bright’s desire to become a father.
Initially, Peters believed motherhood was behind her. At 54, she was experiencing perimenopause and had been told that IVF wasn’t legally available in Australia for women over 52. “I even considered telling Bright to have a child with someone else,” she admitted.
But a visit to Nigeria changed everything. Encouraged by a friend of Bright’s, Peters explored fertility clinics in the country, where doctors offered her the chance to carry a child using an egg donor and Bright’s sperm. She described the experience as the answer to their prayers.
In December 2023, Peters learned she was pregnant, with twins, just as her husband had once predicted. The couple welcomed two daughters, Khorus and Knowyn, in August 2024.
Despite online criticism and concern from medical professionals, Peters described the pregnancy as her smoothest yet. “It was my easiest pregnancy. I felt strong,” she said, crediting the experience with bringing her family closer together.
Her daughter Deina, 28, admitted she was initially worried the relationship was a scam. “Then I got the shocking news that they’d got married and wanted me to be their surrogate,” she said. Learning that her mother would carry the babies herself came as a relief. “She flew through it. She’s so incredible with the girls, it’s a wonder to see.”
Encouraged by her daughters, Peters documented her pregnancy on TikTok to inspire other women facing fertility challenges later in life. “Suddenly, I had people recognising me in public, which was strange,” she said.
Now a mother of seven, Peters said the twins have brought renewed purpose and joy. “To those who dream of motherhood later in life, don’t lose hope,” she said. “It’s never too late to follow your heart.”
