President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians for their support, prayers, and goodwill as he marked his 73rd birthday.
Speaking at a special Iftar held in his honour at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, Tinubu acknowledged the difficult path to the presidency and reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
Reflecting on his political journey, the President recalled a moment during the 2023 election campaign when he briefly considered withdrawing from the race after an interaction with a close relative.
“Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle,” Tinubu said.
“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’”
“I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it.’”
The President revealed that his uncle later confirmed receiving the money but admitted that the messenger had only given him N10,000, keeping the rest.
“At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back,’” Tinubu added.
President Tinubu highlighted the economic challenges he inherited upon assuming office, emphasizing his decision to remove the fuel subsidy on his inauguration day.
“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.
“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future,” Tinubu added.
The Sporting World is mourning the tragic death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed and died during a fight at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
The 40-year-old boxer was competing against Ghanaian fighter John Mbagunu, known as “Power”, in an undercard bout of Ghana’s Professional Boxing League when the heartbreaking incident happened.
Boxer Collapses Mid-Fight During the match, Olanrewaju suddenly fell to the canvas, prompting the referee to immediately call for medical help. Initially, the timekeeper thought it was a knockdown, but it soon became clear that something was seriously wrong.
Despite urgent efforts by medical staff to revive him, he was later pronounced dead, with reports suggesting he may have suffered a cardiac arrest.
A viral video of the fight showed both boxers exchanging powerful punches before Olanrewaju staggered and collapsed, hitting his head on the ring.
Experienced Boxer with 23 Professional Fights According to BoxRec, Olanrewaju was born in Lagos and had 23 professional fights, winning 13, with 12 victories coming by knockout. However, he had been struggling in recent years, losing four fights in a row before this tragic match.
Address of the President General, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, to the 2025 Annual General Assembly Friday, 28th March 2025
Exactly three years ago today, Mr. David Oladimeji Mako was inaugurated as the 12th National President following his victory in the 2022 General Election. He assumed office with boundless enthusiasm and a remarkable passion for transforming both the school and the association. With unwavering determination, a clear vision, and a well-structured plan, he embarked on the ambitious task of revitalizing the system and restoring Ibadan Grammar School to its place as the premier secondary school in Nigeria. Many of us, his close allies, shared in his dream and vision.
Mako was a visionary leader of great repute—an unyielding advocate for a better IGS, one who believed that change should happen immediately. He was determined, energetic, and relentless in his pursuit of reform. Beyond that, he was a defender of the voiceless, a champion for the oppressed, and a staunch promoter of justice. Yet, despite these admirable qualities, he was often misunderstood. Unbothered by how others perceived him, he remained focused on pushing forward his plans for the school and the association.
Mako was deeply committed to several initiatives:
He sought to restore the hostels to full functionality, just as he and many of us had once enjoyed.
He envisioned a swift reintroduction of the HSC education program.
He was determined to enhance the school’s security by constructing an impenetrable perimeter fence.
He initiated a review of our outdated constitution, ensuring that all Grammarians, regardless of their location, could participate in elections and be eligible for leadership.
Having served the association for nearly four decades, Mako was a well-prepared leader, ready to deliver results in record time. In contrast, I was not. Tragically, his journey was cut short by death on Sunday, 22nd October 2023.
On his way to the hospital for a surgical procedure in Lagos, accompanied by Otunba Kenny Adebambo, IGSOSAUK President, Mako was still passionately discussing ways to advance Ibadan Grammar School with potential sponsors. Kenny advised him to focus on the journey ahead, but in his usual manner, Mako flippantly responded, “If anything happens, Gaphar will continue.” Kenny brushed it off, never imagining that Mako would not make it out of the operating room.
As the First Vice National President, I was thrust into leadership by the IGSOSA Registered Board of Trustees, led by Olorogun Goodie Ibru. I was unprepared, inexperienced, and hesitant to fill the enormous shoes Mako left behind. He had often advised me to pay closer attention, but I never fully grasped the weight of his words. Overwhelmed, I leaned on the support of my friends, classmates, colleagues, and the wider IGSOSA family. Their unwavering encouragement gave me the strength to step up to the challenge, and for that, I am deeply grateful. You all know yourselves, and I pray that God meets you at your points of need.
To my dear friend and predecessor, David Oladimeji Mako, I pledged to see through the projects you initiated. By the grace of God and with the support of your devoted admirers, we have made great strides. May your soul continue to rest in eternal peace.
Acknowledgments
Members of the National Executive Council
Chairman, Secretary, and Members of the Registered Board of Trustees
Esteemed Elders of IGSOSA
Past National Presidents
Branch Chairmen and Diaspora Chapter Presidents
Class Set Leaders
Leaders of Standing Committees
Distinguished Mountaineers Worldwide
Principal Officers and Staff of Ibadan Grammar School
Ladies and Gentlemen
Introduction
I begin by giving glory to Almighty God for granting us the grace to witness yet another Annual General Meeting. This gathering stands as a testament to His continued mercy and protection over our lives. It is my great pleasure to welcome our esteemed members and invited guests to our beloved institution, Ibadan Grammar School, for the 2025 AGM.
When fate entrusted me with the leadership of our esteemed association on 1st November 2023, I affirmed that our collective strength and resources would be instrumental in building upon the legacy of President Mako and the solid foundation laid by past presidents, in alignment with the traditions and ethos of Ibadan Grammar School.
As your 13th National President and the first President General, I will refrain from repeating details that will be covered in the Secretary-General’s and National Treasurer’s reports. Instead, I will highlight key achievements and challenges since our last AGM.
Milestones and Achievements
Since the last AGM, we have celebrated remarkable accomplishments and navigated challenges. Some notable highlights include:
Celebrations of birthdays and national/international recognitions of our members.
Our Emeritus National President, Prof. Charles Ogugua Aworh, along with Prof. Aderemi Adedibu and Dr. Bola Osinowo, received prestigious awards.
Prof. Simiat Olanike Elias (née Odetunde) launched the TAPPINA Reading Club.
Prof. Oladipupo Oluwaseun Oladejo became Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at LAUTECH.
The IGSOSANA convention was held in St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
The IGS Perimeter Fence Project Committee was inaugurated.
The Mathematics Laboratory, dedicated to the memory of Pa Agunbiade Bamishe, was commissioned, thanks to Dr. Victor Makinde of the 1971/75 Class Set.
The 9th Venerable Emmanuel Alayande Annual Memorial Distinguished Alumni Lecture was successfully held.
Ibadan Grammar School placed 2nd overall at the 86th AIONIAN Sports and Education Festival, winning 20 medals.
The Oyo State government restructured the school into four administrative units: two junior schools and two senior schools.
Key Developments
Emergency General Meeting & 2025 Electoral Committee
On 30th January 2025, we held an Emergency General Meeting where the reviewed constitution was ratified. The meeting also saw the inauguration of the 2025 Electoral Committee, led by Prof. Gbolahan Gbadamosi, to oversee our first-ever e-voting process, enabling global participation.
Historical Groundbreaking of the IGSOSA Legacy Wall – Perimeter Fence Project
A landmark event took place on 5th February 2025—the groundbreaking ceremony for the IGSOSA Legacy Wall – Perimeter Fence Project. The foundation-laying ceremony was conducted by Hon. Prof. Saliu AbdulWaheed Adelabu, the Oyo State Commissioner for Education, alongside IGSOSA Elders and the National Executive Council. Work commenced immediately, and I extend my sincere gratitude to all donors and potential contributors supporting this crucial project.
Obituaries
Sadly, we lost several distinguished members:
Prince Adegoke Ademiluyi, former National President and Lagos Chapter leader.
Engineer Saidi Sulu, a pioneer figure in the association.
Mr. Bankole Anthony Ige (1974/79 Class Set), a founding member of IGSOSAUK.
May their souls rest in peace, and may the Lord continue to comfort their families.
Appeal for Continued Support
As my tenure comes to an end, I appeal for your unwavering support for the incoming administration, led by Mr. Dayo Onakoya. May God guide and strengthen them in their leadership.
Closing Remarks
I am profoundly grateful to God for granting me the privilege of serving as IGSOSA’s National President and First President General. His grace has sustained us, and for that, I give thanks.
To our esteemed leaders, your wisdom and counsel have been invaluable in moments of challenge—I am eternally grateful. To my fellow Mountaineers, your constructive criticisms, kindness, and prayers have strengthened our collective spirit. I do not take any of it for granted.
Together, we can elevate this association to greater heights.
Deo et patriae
Thank you, and God bless you.
Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola President General, IGSOSA www.igsosa.org
I extend warm and heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the joyous occasion of his 73rd birthday.
Mr. President, your visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to national development, and tireless dedication to the progress of our great nation continue to inspire millions of Nigerians. Your administration has embarked on transformative policies aimed at economic growth, infrastructural development, and social reforms, reinforcing your legacy as a true statesman and a leader of exceptional wisdom.
As we celebrate this milestone, we pray for continued strength, good health, and divine wisdom to steer the affairs of Nigeria toward greater heights. May your leadership journey be marked with success, peace, and prosperity, ensuring a brighter future for all Nigerians.
Looking ahead to 2027, we remain confident in your leadership and vision for a renewed Nigeria. Your remarkable strides and commitment to national unity affirm that you are well-positioned for a second term, as Nigerians continue to trust in your ability to deliver on your promises.
Once again, Happy 73rd Birthday, Mr. President! May this new age bring you fulfillment and grace as you continue to lead our beloved country toward a more prosperous future.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, wishes to react to media reports linking its investigations of Ms. Aisha Achimugu with political undercurrents involving former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
We wish to state unequivocally that the investigations of Achimugu have no correlation of any kind with the two political actors. She is being investigated for alleged criminal conspiracy and money laundering and has since been declared Wanted by the Commission.
The EFCC commenced investigation of Achimugu in 2022 and though she approached the court to obtain an injunction restraining the Commission from arresting, investigating, inviting or detaining her for any alleged criminal act, the injunction was challenged and vacated on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 by a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.
The court ruled that “…no court has the power to stop the investigative powers of the Police or EFCC or any agency established under our laws to investigate crimes when there is reasonable suspicion of commission of a crime or ample evidence of commission of an offence by a suspect”.
The court further upheld the interim order of forfeiture of assets of Achimugu suspected to be proceeds of crime, dismissing her suit against it as lacking merit .
The foregoing clearly establishes that the EFCC’s case against her has no immediate or remote nexus with any politician or any veiled or open reference to any political engagement or transaction.
The EFCC is non-partisan and non-sectarian. We enjoin the public to continue to keep faith with the professionalism of the Commission without imputing any extraneous consideration to its works.
The Zone 2 Police Command, Lagos State, is working on a petition submitted by the family of a legion officer, Jeremiah Edet who was allegedly killed by the personal car of Oba Sefiu Olawale Adeyeri, the Aseyin of Iseyinland, in Oyo State, Nigeria, during the invasion of a landed property.
The family has accused the monarch and the the police in Oyo State of trying to cover up the truth about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The family claimed the act was intentional as the monarch and his aides allegedly abandoned the deceased on the road after the incident and refused to take him to the hospital.
According to SaharaReporters learnt that the incident occurred on Tuesday, 18th March 2025 around Iseyin Laigbe.
The monarch was said to have led some thugs to forcefully invade a landed property being guarded by the deceased legion personnel.
While trying to flee the scene, the official vehicle of Oba Adeyeri allegedly hit him and drove off.
According to Sahara Reporters, that the monarch offered N300,000 to Edet’s family after his death.
The Delta State government has officially withdrawn the disciplinary query issued to Osato Edobor, a student of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences, following public scrutiny and debate. The query, which was initially given for her alleged involvement in recording and sharing an “unauthorised” video on social media during the visit of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was confirmed withdrawn by the Delta State Commissioner for Health.
A copy of the disciplinary letter addressed to Edobor surfaced online on Friday, posted by journalist Oseni Rufai via X (formerly Twitter). The letter, signed by the institution’s provost, Evbodaghe Rita Ogonne, and dated March 27, 2025, accused Edobor of engaging in a “malicious act” by recording herself singing and posting an “unofficial response” to a song during the First Lady’s arrival at the Dome Event Centre in Asaba.
The event was part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Health Programme, where 10,000 professional kits were distributed to midwives in the South-South geopolitical zone. The provost’s letter stated that Edobor’s actions violated the school’s code of conduct, citing the Student Handbook under standardised disciplinary action for some punishable offences No. 8, Page 21.
The institution had initially directed the nursing student to provide a written explanation in triplicate within 24 hours, justifying why disciplinary action should not be taken against her.
This development came in the wake of a viral video showing a group of nursing students at the event seemingly rejecting the First Lady as their “mother.” The incident occurred when the Master of Ceremony introduced Oluremi Tinubu as “everyone’s mother,” a common honorary title for First Ladies in Nigeria. However, the students, in unison, responded, “Na your mama be this,” which translates to “This is your mother,” implying their reluctance to accept the designation.
The video triggered widespread reactions, with many interpreting the students’ response as a reflection of the growing public discontent over economic hardship, food scarcity, and high living costs under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The rising inflation and economic struggles have particularly affected young Nigerians, fueling frustration and unrest.
Meanwhile, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori commended the First Lady’s commitment to improving healthcare services under the RHI programme, stating that the country was experiencing significant progress in the health sector. He also praised her dedication to enhancing the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
During her visit, the First Lady also met with traditional rulers at the Traditional Rulers’ Council Chambers, including the Orodje of Okpe, retired Major General Felix Mujak Peruo, and other prominent leaders.
Following public debate and scrutiny, the Delta State Commissioner for Health has confirmed that the query against Edobor has been withdrawn. This decision has been met with relief among students and the general public, with some seeing it as a step towards upholding freedom of expression while maintaining institutional discipline.
Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor and report on developments surrounding freedom of expression, students’ rights, and the broader implications of this incident in Nigeria’s educational institutions.
The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mrs. Bisola Kola-Daisi, daughter of Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, wife of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi.
Governor Abiodun described Bisola’s passing as a painful and irreplaceable loss, not just to her family but to all who knew her.
He particularly acknowledged the deep and long-standing bond between the Ajimobi and Abiodun families, making this loss even more personal and heartfelt.
“This is a deeply painful moment for the Ajimobi family, and my heart goes out to Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, her children, and loved ones. Losing a child is an unimaginable pain, and I pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear this heavy loss,” Governor Abiodun stated.
He further prayed for the peaceful repose of Mrs. Bisola Kola-Daisi’s soul, urging the family to take solace in the cherished memories she left behind and the impact she had during her lifetime.
The Corps Commander of Amotekun in Ogun State, Brig. Gen. A.I. Adedigba (rtd), has dismissed as pure fiction, the story by controversial online news platform, SaharaReporters, alleging that the outfit was being underfunded by the Ogun State government.
Adedigba, who averred that the security outfit’s collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges in the state are second to none, said Amotekun is being well funded by the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration, describing the report by Sahara Reporters as malicious, misleading, and lacking in substance.
Brig. Gen. Adedigba noted that since the inception of Amotekun in 2020, the administration had been steadfast in meeting its commitment to providing the necessary resources to ensure the effectiveness of this vital security initiative.
“Governor Abiodun was one of the governors who promptly inaugurated and empowered Amotekun in the state. He has prioritized the safety and well-being of Ogun residents, giving the security outfit 10 brand new Toyota Hilux patrol vehicles and also deploying a comprehensive approach to security through robust funding and other logistical support for Amotekun,” he said.
The Commander noted that contrary to Sahara Reporters’ false claim, substantial allocations to the tune of ₦731,770,793.53 were made to the outfit in 2024. This is against the sum of ₦103 million quoted by the newspaper in its report.
He added: “I can proudly say that our budget has been increased from this initial figure to ₦1.5 billion with the approval of the Ogun State House of Assembly for the year 2025.
“It is very unfortunate that the writer’s sense of judgment was beclouded with mischief to the extent that he couldn’t remember that it is during the same year under review that Ogun Amotekun moved to its newly constructed and well-furnished State Headquarters office accommodation, while the meager amount of ₦10 million claimed to have been spent on services is low compared to the monthly running cost specifically allocated for the operational costs of Amotekun, which includes funds designated for maintaining vehicles, office supplies, and essential operational resources.
“Such allocations ensure that our security personnel are well-equipped to protect our communities effectively,” he added.
Adedigba also noted the significant investments of the state government in providing the necessary equipment to the outfit, which had enabled its personnel to carry out their duties effectively.
“The renovation of the old secretariat office complex with drilling of a borehole to address water challenges, and training programs were aimed at enhancing the skills of our security personnel were all executed.
“Furthermore, in the year 2024, the present administration, in its continued efforts at building a resilient and combative force, approved the recruitment and training of an additional 750 personnel to strengthen the numerical figure of the outfit. In his generous tendencies, the governor approved the payment of salaries for the new recruits counting from their days in camp, as well as two pairs of uniforms for each new operative with other kits to complete their attire.
“It is imperative to note that claims suggesting a lack of logistics are unfounded and do not reflect the truth of ongoing government support.
“With the current status of Amotekun in Ogun State, our collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges are second to none, as numerous training programs and workshops approved by the Governor have improved the operational capacity of our personnel.
“Also determined to make Ogun State a safe haven for businesses to thrive and residents to live without fear, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, two weeks ago, again handed over an additional operational vehicles and power bikes to Amotekun. With this, the Agency now have over 45 serviceable operational vehicles and 70 motor bikes in its inventory to conduct its daily activities.
“The operational vehicles clearly symbolize the government’s unwavering dedication to a safer Ogun State.
“Additionally, the Governor has graciously approved the first batch of 500 additional personnel, barely two months after graduating 750 new operatives, with approval for two pairs of full kits (uniform and others), while their salaries have already received the kind approval of the governor with cash backing.
“I wonder how an unserious government that neglects security would have invested this much in an outfit like Amotekun.
“Let it be on record that the Ogun State Government remains committed to transparency and accountability in its dealings. As such, we encourage all stakeholders and members of the public to engage with official sources of information rather than rely on sensationalist reports. The budget documents and allocations are publicly accessible for scrutiny to affirm the government’s commitment to the security of the State,” the Corps Commander said.
