Oduduwa News

A major milestone was recorded in Nigeria’s agricultural and economic transformation drive as Vice President Kashim Shettima, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, and Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Saturday performed the groundbreaking of the Oyo State Agribusiness Industrial Hub at Ijaiye, under the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme.

The ceremony, which held at Atan Village in Akinyele Local Government Area, drew stakeholders from across sectors, including top government officials, traditional rulers, development partners, agribusiness experts, and rural community leaders.

Representing Vice President Shettima, Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Senator Abubakar Kyari, praised the Oyo State Government’s commitment to using agriculture as a foundation for economic empowerment. He stated that the Federal Government is fully backing the project, which he described as a transformative initiative capable of unlocking vast potentials in the state and beyond.

“The future of Nigeria lies in turning agriculture into a value-driven sector. What is happening here today is a symbol of the partnership between states and the Federal Government to drive that transformation,” Kyari said.

In his remarks, Governor Makinde declared the Ijaiye hub a clear demonstration of his administration’s dedication to the Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development, 2023-2027, which envisions agriculture as a commercial enterprise—not just subsistence—capable of creating jobs, attracting investors, and securing food systems.

“We’ve been to the Oyo zone. We’ve been to Ibarapa zone. Now, we’re in Ibadan zone. This is Ijaiye. We are ensuring that the benefits of agribusiness development reach every region of our state.

“Well, let me also say this. We identified six old farm settlements established during the Western Region days. Then, the people had vision. They never thought about federal allocation; they were looking at productivity in their local environment.

He added: “I would like to appreciate you, Governor Makinde. You are an exemplary governor and I must tell you all; he is a very efficient governor. You are very visionary, passionate, and committed, and you have a heart for the people and I am very very appreciative of everything that you do.

“Fasola settlement was one of those settlements in those days. It was moribund as many of the old farm settlements were done by our Papa Awolowo, but you actually went there and thanks to the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, which has totally transformed that place.

Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade has recounted her journey from street hawking to international football glory during a church testimony in Ogun State.

Ajibade, who led Nigeria to its record 10th WAFCON title in Morocco, spoke on Saturday at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries’ monthly ‘Power Must Change Hands’ programme.

She told the congregation she once sold olive oil, kunu, and zobo drinks around the church premises during deliverance services as a young girl.

Now a professional footballer with Atletico Madrid, Ajibade said her rise is the result of prayer, hard work, and persistence.

She urged the audience not to give up in the face of challenges, stressing the importance of faith and determination.

Ajibade’s appearance drew cheers as she credited her faith for helping her through tough moments in her club and national team career.

A former Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, has issued a strong warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over speculations that he may replace Vice President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Shittu, speaking on AIT’s Focus Nigeria, cautioned that any attempt to sideline Shettima in the next election cycle could spell political disaster for Tinubu’s re-election ambitions.

There have been growing rumours that President Tinubu is considering picking a new running mate for the 2027 race. However, the Presidency has downplayed these claims, maintaining that no official decisions will be made or announced until the campaign season begins.

Shittu firmly rejected the idea of replacing the current vice president, describing Shettima as a “brilliant and deserving leader.”

“Shettima was not nominated as vice president because of whatever cleavage he had with ANPP. On his own merit, he got it,” Shittu said. “Shettima, as a person, merits it. He is a very intelligent vice president. I would vote for Shettima any day.”

The former minister also expressed confusion over why some individuals were pushing for Shettima’s replacement.

“I don’t know what he has done for people to think that he would act differently,” he added. “I don’t think Shettima deserves any prevarication on his continuity in Tinubu’s team.”

Shittu further warned that such a move could backfire politically.

“If there are any such suggestions from any quarters, I think we must be very careful about it,” he said. “It would bring a lot of disruptions if that move is made and it could endanger the possibility of Tinubu’s second presidency. They must continue. You don’t punish anybody for doing nothing wrong.”

As the 2027 elections gradually approach, political realignments and strategic decisions within the ruling APC are expected to attract closer public scrutiny.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed the supplementary budget of N299.8 billion into law.

‎The House passed the budget after the Chairman, Committee on Appropriation, Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Sunkanmi Babalola presented the report and considered clause by clause before it was read for the third time during the plenary session on Thursday.

‎With the passage of ₦299.8 billion supplementary budget, the 2025 total budget size of the state has increased from ₦684.1 billion to ₦984 billion.

‎Speaking with journalists shortly after plenary session, Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation, Budget and Economic Planning Hon. Sunkanmi Babalola, said the supplementary budget became necessary to accommodate several critical expenditures that were not initially captured in the 2025 budget.

‎He added that the approval of the supplementary budget was also necessitated to infrastructural development in the 33 Local Government Areas of the state.

‎According to the lawmaker, who represents Egbeda State Constituency, “The supplementary budget will take care of the funds approved for the reconstruction of the Government House, workers’ pensions and provisions for a new national minimum wage.

‎“The reality of the state’s financial obligations in the current fiscal year required a reassessment. This supplementary appropriation reflects the dynamic nature of governance and the need to respond to emerging priorities.

‎“The approved supplementary budget increase is a move to strengthen infrastructural development and social welfare across the state amid rising economic demands and inflationary pressures.”

‎Hon. Babalola confirmed that the reason for a working recess by the lawmakers, is to enable them to monitor the implementation of the budgetary allocations for the ongoing developmental projects in their various constituencies across the state.

‎He assured that all the chairmen of various committees have been charged by the Speaker, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin to be alerted during recess to ensure budget performance is in line with its objectives.

‎It will be recalled that Governor Seyi Makinde presented the 2025 budget of ₦684.1 billion late last year, which has since been passed into law.

The seven farmers kidnapped in their farmland at Itaogbolu in Akure North LGA, Ondo State, on Saturday have regained freedom. 

The victims were working on their farms when gunmen launched an attack and whisked them away. 

A relative of one of the kidnapped farmers, who did not want to be named for security reasons, confirmed on Friday that the seven farmers were released on Wednesday night after spending five days in captivity. 

“I’m happy to tell you that the kidnappers released all seven farmers on Wednesday night. They are back with their families. 

“I want to let you know that when the kidnappers demanded ransom, which was N100 million initially before it was reduced to N20 million, we were only able to raise N5 million.

“They were released in Ikere-Ekiti, Ekiti, on Wednesday night after collecting N5 million and food items. The victims are now in the hospital for medical attention,” he said. 

The commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, could not be reached for comments.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, simply said: “I’m not aware of their release.” 

(NAN)

As part of efforts to promote tourism and culture in Ogun State, the famous Olumo Rock Tourist Centre in Abeokuta will be open to members of the public free of charge from now until the end of September this year.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, who made the announcement on Thursday at the commissioning of the newly renovated Tourist Complex, said the gesture is to encourage people to embrace tourism as well as appreciate the richness of their culture.

The Complex has a galleria that contains artworks made up of pictures of eminent Nigerians, a gazebo, a restaurant that will serve both local and continental dishes, shops for selling adire fabrics, and a standby generator set that will power the newly installed elevators and other facilities.

Olumo Rock, the governor noted, is more than a majestic outcrop or an assemblage of stones; it represents a sanctuary of strength, a symbol of refuge, and an identity for a people.

“For centuries, it has stood tall, offering safety and identity to the Egba people in times of conflict and change.

“Renovating this sacred site is not just about infrastructure; it is about reviving memory, rekindling pride, and reaffirming our cultural roots. The site connects us to our roots.

“We recognize that tourism, when properly developed, has the capacity to generate employment, attract investment, promote cultural understanding, and serve as a catalyst for community development,” he said.

The governor noted that his administration would continue to prioritize tourism as a strategic pillar of the ISEYA development agenda, emphasizing that when properly developed, it could impact the local economy, generate employment opportunities, and boost the revenue of the State.

While declaring the State a foremost destination of choice, Governor Abiodun beckoned to tourists around the world to come to the State and experience its tourist attractions, adding that the Olumo Rock Tourism Complex has undergone a total renovation and is now equipped with a world-class arts gallery and restaurants.

He said: “This renovation has transformed Olumo Rock from a historic relic into a modern heritage destination. From an economic standpoint, this revitalized complex is a tourism magnet.

“Entrepreneur zones have been provided for artisans, vendors, and creatives to showcase their talents and benefit from growing visitor traffic. This centre will boost local commerce, empower our youths, and build a thriving cultural and creative economy.

“Socially, Olumo Rock reminds us of who we are: a people of strength, a people of courage, a people of ingenuity, and a people of unity. Spiritually, it connects us with our roots and reaffirms the values that we find in our collective identity. It stands as a cultural invitation to the world.”

His administration’s goal, Governor Abiodun stated, is to establish tourist sites across the state, assuring that the renovated Olumo Rock Tourist Complex would be concessioned to a reputable organization for its proper upkeep.

Welcoming guests to the occasion, the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Sesan Fagbayi appreciated the state governor for repositioning the tourist centre, adding that this would attract more tourists and visitors.

In his remarks, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, revealed that the Rock, in the olden days, served as a sanctuary for the Egba people and was also used as a military observation post by local militias who defended the town from invaders.

While noting the spiritual importance of the tourist center, the monarch observed that apart from serving as a place where prayers are answered, it provides a place for relaxation for seekers, even as he appreciated Governor Abiodun for giving the facility a facelift.

The Chief Executive Officer of Nike Arts Gallery, Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye, expressed optimism that the renovation of the Complex would lead to an increase in tourism traffic from around the world, assuring that a wide range of unquantifiable services would be offered to both local and foreign tourists and visitors.

She said: “We are going to bring people who are art lovers from different museums all over the world to come and celebrate our culture and our heritage, which is Olumo.

“We will share our knowledge with them, and they will also share their knowledge with us. With this, everybody is going to benefit. We are going to create more jobs and train people in new ideas about what they can do to make more money.

“This place is going to be number one in the whole country; that is why I said, give it two years.”

The Presidency has stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully entitled to seek a second term in office, just like his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari.

This was made known by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, during an interview on Trust Radio.

Onanuga warned against what he described as politically motivated attacks aimed at discrediting Tinubu’s leadership, particularly by those who feel uncomfortable with a Southerner at the helm.

“This President is a Nigerian. He deserves the same two terms that Buhari had. Let’s not sacrifice the country for personal ambition,” he said.

He accused certain individuals and political actors of deliberately trying to stir division by pitting Northern Nigerians against the President in the build-up to the 2027 general elections.

According to him, allegations that Tinubu’s administration has marginalized the North in terms of development and appointments are nothing but “falsehoods” driven by “political mischief.”

“You need to get your statistics right. The National Security Adviser, Chief of Defence Staff, and both Defence Ministers are all Northerners,” he noted, while citing improvements in security in areas like Birnin Gwari and Igabi in Kaduna State.

Onanuga also emphasized the need for unity and sacrifice among all Nigerians, regardless of region or political affiliation.

“There are bad roads across the country, not just in the North. We should stop promoting false narratives. Everyone must put national interest above personal ambition,” he added.

The remarks come amid increasing political tension and speculation about Tinubu’s future ambitions ahead of the 2027 presidential race.