News, Events and People.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS, EBENEZER OLUFEMI ADELOLA: THE QUIET FORCE BEHIND THE SCENES.     By Sunday Ajibola      In a world teeming with millions—billions—of people, a few individuals stand out. Not necessarily for fame, flamboyance, or physical distinction, but for the extraordinary way they carry out the ordinary. They’re often difficult to describe or categorize. Call them different—perhaps even odd—and you might not be wrong. These are people who move quietly, yet make things happen. One such person is Ebenezer Olufemi Adelola. At first glance, he appears unassuming. Of average height and fair complexion, nothing in his outward appearance suggests the inner fire and strength he possesses. In a crowd, you might overlook him. But beneath the surface lies a rare combination of vision, resilience, and tireless dedication. His family calls him "Baba Ekun"—meaning “Father of the Tiger”. It's a name not given lightly, and one that encapsulates the essence of wh...

  Happy birthday to Nike Busari: A Quiet Force, A Consistent Flame. By Sunday Ajibola “Character is like smoke; no matter how hard one tries to hide it, it will always rise to the surface.” This timeless proverb underscores a profound truth: one’s character cannot be concealed for long. Regardless of how well one pretends, life will always offer an opportunity for the true self to emerge. Human beings—both men and women—are daily presented with chances to showcase their personal integrity. People may be born into certain ways of life, but consistency of character is not a common trait. It is a rarity, often accompanied by discipline and self-control . And there is something undeniably beautiful about consistency—it earns you respect without effort. As the saying goes, “Let your character speak before your words.” A Household Name with Dignity In Ondo State, one name resonates deeply within the media landscape— Nike Busari . She is a household name, particularly among jou...

Ondo State Earns National Praise for Strategic Economic Growth and Job Creation Initiatives By Sunday Ajibola Ondo State has received commendation from the National Economic Council (NEC) monitoring team for its strategic initiatives in driving economic growth and job creation through robust partnerships with the private sector. Leading the three-member inspection delegation to the South-West region, Professor Musibau Adedeji applauded the state's forward-thinking approach to attracting investment and enhancing value addition across critical sectors of the economy.   "Ondo State is making significant strides in creating a conducive environment for investors to thrive," said Professor Adedeji. "This has resulted in increased employment opportunities and a broader economic base." Highlighting the collaborative efforts between the government and private enterprises, Professor Adedeji noted, "The state is working closely with the private sector to create jo...

     The Forum of Accountants in the Public Service of Ondo State has honoured and showered accolades on a trailblazing accountant, Dr. (Mrs.) Oladipo Joycelyn Omobola , for achieving a historic milestone as the first female accountant to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting within the public service of Ondo State.    Dr. Oladipo, a distinguished member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and currently serving as the Director of Accounts at the Ondo State Ministry of Information and Orientation , was recognised for her academic accomplishments, professional expertise, and invaluable contributions to the accounting profession in the state’s public sector.    Speaking at a week-long annual event organised by the Forum in Akure, themed "Value Addition in Public Finance: The Role of Accountants," the Chairman of the Ondo State Accountants Forum, Comrade Ayodele Adekanbi , described the honouree’s achievement as a ...

  Okearo Reawakens: A Community's Long-Awaited Transformation Begins" By Sunday Ajibola The vicissitudes of life govern the world—our world. In the lives of both people and communities, and even inanimate objects, events unfold when the time is right. Often, someone—or a group of people—rises to the occasion to champion the needed change. This truth underpins the timeless wisdom found in the Holy Scriptures: “There is a time for everything.” For the people of Akure, especially those from Oke-Aro Street, a persistent question has lingered: Why has this area been so neglected in the larger scheme of things? Chief among their concerns has been the deplorable condition of the over 10-kilometre road that links the state capital to the cocoa-rich city of Idanre. When former Governor Akeredolu (Aketi) commenced work on the Ijoka-Idanre road, hopes dimmed for the Okearo-Idanre road. Many assumed it would be forgotten, at least for the foreseeable future. Yet, Okearo is no minor pa...

Adelegbe Highlights Achievements, Pledges More Development for Owo/Ose Member of the House of Representatives for Owo/Ose Federal Constituency, Otunba Hon. Dr. Timehin Adelegbe, has reiterated his commitment to the development of his constituency, highlighting numerous achievements in infrastructure, education, agriculture, and empowerment. Speaking at a press briefing, Adelegbe emphasized his dedication to improving the lives of his constituents through various initiatives. He noted that several projects, including school renovations, skill acquisition centers, and bursary awards for students, had been completed, while others were in progress. His efforts in agriculture have also benefited farmers through the distribution of improved cocoa seedlings, farming tools, and training in modern techniques. In the area of empowerment, Adelegbe announced that thousands of market women, youths, and artisans had received financial aid, work tools, and business grants to boost economic activities...

  ODIRS disburses N42m land use charge, radio/TV licence revenues to 18 Ondo Local Govts The Ondo State Internal Revenue Service (ODIRS) has presented cheques totaling ₦20,445,784.00 for land use charges and ₦22,100,000.00 for radio and television license revenue to the 18 local government chairmen. The cheques were handed over during the March edition of the Joint State Revenue Committee (JSRC) meeting, held at the ODIRS Hall in Alagbaka, Akure. Strengthening Revenue Collection The Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Mr. Bayo Rojugbokan, emphasized that the JSRC serves as a collaborative platform between ODIRS and the local government chairmen to harmonize policies and guidelines for efficient internal revenue collection across the state. “We are making progress and fostering a cooperative approach toward improved revenue collection in Ondo State. Compared to previous disbursements, this allocation is higher, and I believe the local government chairmen are pleased to receive these cheques...

IFAD/LIFE-ND ONDO OFFICE GRADUATES OVER 5000 INCUBATEES, TO ENGAGE 6,000 MORE THIS YEAR. Over 5,000 incubatees engaged by the IFAD/LIFE-ND, Ondo Project have been presented with certificates of participation by the Office. At a short ceremony held at the Ministry of Women Affairs, Akure, representatives of the incubatees drawn from the 10 local government areas where the project is taking place were advised to use the knowledge they have acquired to benefit their communities. The National Project Coordinator, who spoke through the State Project Coordinator, Prince Olawale Ademola, said the IFAD/LIFE-ND Project was aimed at alleviating poverty in the Niger Delta states, focusing on women and youths. "You are our ambassadors. Go and use the seeds we have given you wisely. Develop what you have learned, become employers of labor, and engage other youths. I am looking for 20 champions in each local government area. I am talking about 20 people I can show the world as successful produ...

It was a day of accolades as Depna Gas, a subsidiary of Enpre Nigeria Limited, officially opened for business in Akure, the Ondo State capital. Dignitaries at the opening ceremony praised the CEO of the company for her industriousness, entrepreneurial drive, and sense of responsibility. Chairing the event, the CEO of Denki Wire and Cable, Engr. Emmanuel Adewumi, lauded her business acumen and progressive strides. In his words Engr. Adewumi stated that  "I am delighted by the exceptional ability to turn ideas into success you have consistently demonstrated. Nigeria needs more individuals like you, both in the private and public sectors, to achieve greatness. " Other dignitaries who graced the occasion included Mr. Bayo Philip, Mr. Bamidele Daisi, and the former General Manager of NTA Akure, Mrs. Tinu Olowofela. They echoed similar sentiments, expressing confidence that her track record would ensure the success of the gas station. In her response, the CEO of Depna Gas gave glor...

Ondo State at 49: A Footballing Legacy By Sunday Ajibola Ondo State marked its 49th anniversary on Monday. How time flies! If it were a human being, it would be an adult by now—perhaps with a family, children, and even grandchildren. When the late General Murtala Muhammed's short-lived but eventful regime announced the creation of Ondo State, the news was met with jubilation. The elderly, who understood the significance of this development, rejoiced, while we, the younger ones, eagerly joined in the celebrations. Ondo State was carved out of the defunct Western Region, along with Ogun and Oyo States, which were also created on the same day. Looking back, Ondo State started on a strong footing. Many people from Oyo, Ilorin, and Abeokuta chose to make it their home, drawn by the opportunities in the newly created state. Even some expatriates were not left out. Ondo was like a young, untouched land, full of promise for all who sought to grow. In various sectors—agriculture, educati...

Trump’s Victory, U.S. Immigration, Nigeria’s Leadership Crisis and  Its Implications By Sunday Ajibola Given the chance, many would have prevented Donald Trump from winning the last U.S. presidential election. Many Nigerians followed the election closely, primarily due to concerns about the new administration’s immigration policies. However, the reality remains that a majority of Americans supported the outspoken Trump. He made it clear that America belongs to its citizens and that everything must be done to protect American interests—economically, socially, and militarily. Some of the promises made by his opponent, Kamala Harris, contributed to Trump's victory. As he returned for a second term, Trump was neither a newcomer nor a novice in U.S. politics. Unlike traditional politicians, he is not one to bow to public pressure. A billionaire businessman, Trump largely self-funded his first campaign, which explains why he governed like he was running a business empire. One of his m...

  U.S. Moves to Deport 3,690 Nigerians in Immigration Crackdown As part of the Trump administration's intensified crackdown on illegal immigration, the United States government has identified 3,690 Nigerians residing in the country unlawfully, signaling their imminent deportation. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) pinpointed these individuals as part of its ongoing efforts to enforce federal immigration laws. According to official reports, the affected Nigerians are listed under the “Noncitizens on the ICE Non-Detained Docket with Final Orders of Removal by Country of Citizenship.” This means that they have undergone legal proceedings and have been ordered to leave the country but have not yet been physically detained. Deportation operations will be carried out by ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) officers, who are responsible for maintaining national security and public safety. This development aligns with President Donald Trump's aggressive immig...

  The Ondo State Government has been urged to enforce strict compliance with safety standards for all buildings and structures under construction to prevent the recurring issue of building collapse and the resultant loss of lives. The call was made on Saturday by the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Ondo State chapter, during a public awareness walk in Akure, the state capital. The event, themed “Walk Against Building Collapse,” brought together professionals to raise awareness about the dangers of cutting corners in construction and the need to prioritize safety and professionalism. Speaking to journalists at the Alagbaka roundabout, where members of the institution converged, the state Chairman of NICE, Engr. Rasak Ejibunu, attributed most cases of structural defects and building collapse to the actions of building owners. According to him, many developers compromise on quality by cutting costs, often ignoring professional advice and safety standards. “A lot of fac...

Ondo State Governor Commissions IFAD-Sponsored Projects to Boost Rural Agriculture The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has inaugurated six impactful projects across the state. These projects, funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) under the tripartite FGN/NDDC/IFAD-assisted Livelihood Improvement Family Enterprises – Niger Delta (LIFE-ND) Project, were established in Mahintedo, Ilaje Local Government Area, and Igedegede, Akoko North-West Local Government Area. At the cassava processing mill in Mahintedo, Dr. Olayide Adelami, representing the governor, emphasized the transformative nature of the project: “This is a project that will improve the livelihoods of rural communities. The cassava processing plant, located in the agrarian Mahintedo community, will encourage farmers to grow more cassava by eliminating the challenge of transporting raw and processed produce to markets. “Remarkably, all the processing machines are locally produced in Nigeria...

Ministry Celebrates Pastor Babalola for Transformative Leadership  The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure has honored Pastor Joseph Ayoade Babalola, the immediate past Special Adviser to the Governor on Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, for his exceptional leadership, character, and contributions during his tenure. The event, held at the Ministry’s headquarters, was attended by top government officials and staff, who described Pastor Babalola as a visionary leader, a mentor, and a team player who exemplified humility and a strong work ethic. Speaking at the ceremony, the Administrative Secretary of the Ministry, Engineer Akinluyi Omotola, emphasized the need to celebrate Babalola’s legacy, which, according to him, left an indelible mark on the Ministry. “Pastor Babalola brought a new dimension to leadership during his short but impactful tenure. He fostered unity, love, and inclusion, ensuring that no officer was sidelined or marginalized. His humility, openness, and respect fo...

 NG-CARES: A Model for Effective Grassroots Intervention  says Ondo Govt.   The Commissioner for Economic Planning and Budget, Dr. Emmanuel Igbasan, has praised the NG-CARES initiative, describing its framework as the most effective among social protection programmes in Nigeria. Dr. Igbasan made these remarks while hosting the Independent Verification Agents (IVA), who were in the state on verification exercise of the results achieved under the NG-CARES Programme. In his address, the Commissioner commended the Federal Government, the World Bank, and the Governors’ Forum for conceiving the NG-CARES programme. He highlighted its far-reaching impact on poor and the vulnerable and its success in delivering life-changing initiatives across the state. “NG-CARES is designed with robust safeguards and an embedded monitoring mechanism that make it unique and its outcomes verifiable,” he stated.  “This program played a significant role in the Governor’s landslide victory durin...

TUKANA'S DEMISE IS THE DEEPEST CUT INTO THE SOUL OF AKURE Akure, the beleaguered capital city of Ondo State, found itself in the news during the first weekend of 2025. However, the messages it received were neither of celebration nor joy. Instead, they were condolences—words meant to soothe the wounded hearts of its people. Yet, given the choice, Akure would rather not have been the recipient of such sympathies. The city mourned quietly, as it has done so often before. This weekend merely reopened its deep scars, adding another name to its ever-growing list of illustrious sons lost in their prime. To understand the weight of this moment, we must revisit history. In the mid-1970s, thirteen of Akure’s wealthiest young men perished in a tragic auto crash on their way to Lagos to purchase goods. Earlier, in 1972, the city lost its most talented musician, Wale Glorious, who died suddenly at the tender age of 29. Eleven years later, in 1983, Akure experienced a tempestuous day of tragedy...

  Ondo State Government Advocates Community Partnership in Road Maintenance Assures Completion  of Ongoing Projects, Warns Against Misuse The Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Lands and Housing, Pastor Ayoade Babaloa has called on residents of the state to collaborate with the government in maintaining roads, emphasizing the need for responsible road usage. Pastor Babalola made the call during an inspection of the ongoing asphalt laying on Aule and rehabilitation of Igoba township road, urged residents to monitor and protect the newly constructed roads.  The Special Adviser highlighted the importance of preventing practices that could damage the roads. He advised residents of Aule Road to ensure no canopies are nailed onto the asphalt during ceremonies and cautioned against burning tires or creating bonfires during protests, which could degrade the road surface. He also discouraged diesel spillage from heavy-duty vehicles, noting its damaging effects on asphalt. He reite...