The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, says the nation remains indebted to those who laid down their lives as well as those still serving in difficult and dangerous conditions.
Governor Adeleke stated this at the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and the laying a wreath at the Cenotaph in honour of officers and men of the Armed Forces who paid the supreme price in defense of the nation.
He described the occasion as a solemn moment to remember the sacrifices of brave men and women who served Nigeria with courage, patriotism and loyalty.
The Governor noted that from the Nigerian Civil War to various peacekeeping missions across the world, Nigerian soldiers have consistently demonstrated gallantry and commitment to national unity.
The Osun State Governor said the courage and selflessness of the Armed Forces continue to inspire citizens to uphold the values of service and sacrifice.
Governor Adeleke assured veterans, serving officers and their families of the state government’s continued support, stressing that the welfare of ex-servicemen and the strengthening of peace and security remain a priority of his administration.
The Governor also called on Nigerians to honour the memory of fallen heroes by working towards a just, peaceful and prosperous nation worthy of their sacrifice.
Highlights of the event was the laying of wreath, 21 gun salute and prayers for the fallen heroes.
Present at the event were the Former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. Lasun Yusuf, Chief Judge of Osun State, Mrs. Adepele Ojo, Service Chiefs, members of the cabinet,widows and family of the fallen heroes among others.
Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has assured residents that his administration would work more to strengthen the security architecture for a safe and secured state.
He stated this at the this year’s Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde also hinted on plans to draw up a welfare scheme for the families of recently slain five forest guards at the Old Oyo National Park in Oriire local government area of the state.
In an interview shortly after the ceremony, Governor Seyi Makinde commended the effort of security operatives in sustaining the relative peace currently being experienced across the nation and assured residents that his administration would work more for a more secured Oyo state.
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On his part, the Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Oyo state, Julius Alabi commended both the federal and Oyo state governments for the improvement of their welfare.
Security heads, Top Government Functionaries, Old Soldiers, Representative of Widows and Children of Slain Soldiers and the Olubadan of Ibadan of Ibadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja amongst others graced the event.
Every 15th of January is commemorated in Nigeria as armed forces remembrance day, a day set aside to appreciate, raise concern for the welfare of disabled, aged ex-service men, their widows and children of slain soldiers who fought during the first, second world wars, Nigeria civil war, international peace keeping missions and other internal security warfare.
The first month of the new year is going gradually. Within this shortest trip into the year, some people are already losing sight of their resolutions. But why is it difficult for people to keep to resolutions?
A Baptist Clergyman,the Reverend ‘Segun Lawoyin once shared valuable insights on why resolutions often fall short.He spoke on ” Straight Talk”, a Radio Nigeria Programme that focuses on topical issues, with the host, Olutola Daramola.Reverend Lawoyin’s words remain relevant today, offering guidance on how to overcome the challenges that come with making New Year’s resolutions. He also touched on other issues affecting the nation.
Making New year resolution is a good thing because as human beings, there will always be room for improvement. After all, the largest room on earth is the room for change.
Therefore, having reflected over the previous year’s achievements, failures, experiences, coupled with different admonitions received while stepping into the new year, man is poised to make informed decisions and positive change for a better result as explained by a Baptist Clergyman during his lifetime,the Reverend Stephen Olusegun Lawoyin.
This principle is rooted in the scripture, where God reminds us that “new wine can’t be put into old wineskins”, (Matthew 9:17).
Yet, the real challenge lies not in the decision to change, but in the ability to stick to our commitments and see them through.
While featuring on, Straight Talk, a Radio Nigeria Ibadan programme Reverend Segun Lawoyin adduced such, to lack of proper thinking before decision making on the part of the people.
“At times people do not think well before they make resolutions because when a person makes a resolution that he cannot really keep to, that person will not fulfill whatever he wants to do. But when a person thinks hard and prays very well that God should help him with the the Holy Spirit on the resolutions he’s going to make, i.believe very strongly that person will keep to the resolution to the end” The Clergy said.
Reverend Lawoyin also pointed out that inconsistent government policies, coupled with the denial of workers’ benefits and entitlements, posed significant threats to individual’s well-laid plans and resolutions, particularly when it comes to their financial stability.
With a passionate concern for the nation, the clergyman emphasized that overcoming Nigeria’s challenges required a collective commitment to truth.
He urged political leaders to stop fueling false hopes with empty promises and rather, fulfill their electioneering promises, thereby, restoring the trust of the people.
“These politicians don’t really have good vision for the nation.They don’t have good mind for the people they are leading.They only want the people to vote them into power.That is why they make those vague resolutions.
In order to avoid this, leaders must be resolute in fulfilling their electioneering promises”.
For the nation to witness positive change in the new year, Reverend Lawoyin said, all manners of corrupt practices and immoral behaviour must not be treated lightly. “Look at how leaders are looting the nation’s treasury and a lot of ugly practices like a man of forty defiling a little child. Until there is a stringent measure, like a capital punishment, most of us will not change in this country.This is why I’m appealing to the president, he must sit with his cabinet members and begin to impose severe penalities including capital punishment for these heinous crimes. When that happens, there will be change. It is like a rat eating something somewhere, when it is caught in trap, it will caution other rats from treading the same path”.
The clergyman emphasized the need for leaders to do away with propaganda and lead with sincerity of heart.
While reflecting on the proliferation of churches and breakdown of moral values in the society, Reverend Lawoyin said it was not sufficient alone to tell people not to do this or that, hammering that the example should start with the leader of the church,the clergyman himself. “If the preacher preaches people refrain from drinking, smoking, sexual immorality and embezzling,he too should not be involved.
Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches we should be doers of The Word and not hearers only.When the Pastor lives by example, members will also follow. Such impression will engender positive changes in people”, he concluded.
The US government has suspended immigrant visa processing for Nigerians seeking to travel to the US, marking the latest in a series of travel restrictions targeting the country.
This means the US will temporarily stop accepting and processing immigration visa applications from Nigerians.
The suspension also affects Russia, Somalia, Brazil, Afghanistan, and a host of other countries.
Recalled, that a memo from the US State Department showed that the Donald Trump administration is suspending visa processing for applicants from 75 countries in total.
The order was issued in November to tighten regulations on potential immigrants the administration deems likely to become “public charges” in the US.
The State Department spokesperson, Tommy Piggott, said, “The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge in the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,
“Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits.”
The processing suspension will come into force on 21 January.
A week ago, the US introduced a travel policy that required Nigerians seeking to enter the United States on a B1/B2 visa to post bonds of up to $15,000.
Recalled, the policy requiring Nigeria to post bonds will also take effect on 21 January.
Last month, the US barred entry for Nigerians seeking to enter the US as green card holders, or on B‑1, B‑2, B‑1/B‑2, F, M, and J visas.
The government cited high rates of visa overstays and insecurity as reasons for the restrictions.
It also instituted partial and full travel bans on several African, Latin American, and Asian countries.
Singapore’s Leader of the Opposition in parliament, Pritam Singh, has been stripped of his title by the prime minister following a vote by lawmakers.
The vote took place on Wednesday in parliament, which is overwhelmingly dominated by the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP).
The move follows Singh’s conviction for lying under oath to a parliamentary committee. Singh has consistently maintained his innocence.
He remains a member of parliament and secretary-general of the largest opposition party, Workers’ Party (WP), but will lose privileges such as additional allowances and the right of first reply during parliamentary debates.
Singh’s case stands out as one of the only criminal convictions against a sitting opposition lawmaker. He was also the first person to hold the title of Leader of the Opposition.
Critics have previously accused Singapore’s government of using the judiciary to go after its political opponents – charges authorities have always denied.
On Wednesday, Indranee Rajah, the Leader of the House who had initiated the debate, said that Singh’s lies “strike at the trust” Singaporeans place in parliament and accused him of “failing to take responsibility”.
Singh defended himself during the debate, saying that his “conscience remains clear” and disagreed with the debate’s resolution that his behaviour was “dishonourable and unbecoming”. He also vowed to continue his work as an MP.
After three hours of debate, the parliament backed a motion that agreed Singh should not be the Leader of the Opposition. All 11 present WP members voted against it.
The parliament also agreed to review the implications for two other WP lawmakers at another time.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said in light of Singh’s conviction and the vote that it was “no longer tenable” for him to continue as the Leader of the Opposition.
He also invited the WP to nominate another of their MPs to take the title.
In response to BBC queries over text messaging, Singh responded with a single word: “#WeContinue”.
The WP said it will deliberate on the move and respond “in due course”. It previously said it would conduct an internal review of whether Singh contravened their rules.
The party holds 12 seats in Singapore’s 108-seat parliament.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA Ogun State Command, has sustained its aggressive offensive against drug trafficking with the seizure of 1.6 tonnes of cannabis sativa in Mowe, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of the state.
The Command’s Public Relation Officer, Mr Harris Musa said the seizure was made during a carefully coordinated, intelligence-led operation by operatives of the NDLEA at a residential premises in Mowe.
Mr Musa explained that three suspects, including Benedict Joseph Thaddeus, were arrested at the location while attempting to load the illicit drug consignment into a Toyota Sienna bus and a Hummer bus.
He said that a total of 115 bags of cannabis sativa, weighing 1,600 kilograms, were recovered at the scene, dealing a significant blow to drug trafficking networks operating within the state.
Mr Musa reaffirmed the Command’s determination to sustain the momentum in line with its statutory mandate of dismantling drug syndicates and curbing the circulation of illicit drugs.
He added that the ongoing operations are aimed at safeguarding public health and security, in alignment with the strategic vision and directives of the Agency
In an effort to solve the challenges associated with accessibility to the ongoing second phase of nationwide continuous voter registration, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC in Oyo state has announced decision to rotate the movement of its Voter Enrollment Device, IVED across the 351 Registration Areas in the state
Resident Electoral Commissioner in Oyo state, Dr. Adeniran Tells made this known at a news conference on update on the ongoing voter registration.
Dr. Tella who said the IVED machines will be mobile, hinted that the Commission has meticulously designed a 50-day rotational schedule to ensure that the enrollment services reach every corner of the State.
He said the machines will be moved systematically starting from Monday the 9th Feb. 2026 from 9am to 3pm daily excluding weekends and public holidays.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner explained that a Stakeholders’ meeting comprising Political Parties, Security Personnel, Traditional and Religious Leaders would be organized at both the State and respective LGAs Offices to enhance effective dissemination of information, deployment of materials at the agreed venues and dates for each registration area
Sixteen Palace Chiefs of the Ooni of Ife have commended Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke for the remarkable developmental strides recorded under his administration.
They gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the Governor at the Government house, Okefia, Osogbo. Speaking on behalf of the delegation, during the visit, the Obalufe of Ife, Oba Adediwura Idowu, the chiefs expressed deep satisfaction with the governor’s performance, declaring that Ile-Ife has never had it this good in terms of infrastructure and government presence.
They applauded Governor Adeleke for his people-centred leadership and visible achievements across the state, stressing that the people of Ile-Ife are proud of the governor’s accomplishments in the last three years and have collectively resolved to throw their full weight behind him by endorsing him for a second term
Also speaking, Baba Lowa Adimula described Governor Adeleke as a true son of the source, whose commitment to the ancient city is evident in the quality and scope of projects being executed. Baba Lowa Adimula urged the governor to hasten work on the ongoing bridge project, the first of its kind in Ile Ife and ensure that the road is properly tarred and dualised all the way to the Ooni Palace, at Enuwa to further ease traffic movement and boost economic activities.
The Chiefs also used the opportunity to admonish the Federal Government over the continued withholding of local government funds, a situation they noted has prevented traditional rulers and other local government beneficiaries from receiving their entitlements for the past 11 months. They called for an urgent resolution of the issue in the interest of grassroots governance and welfare. Edited by Titilayo Kupoliyi
Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late wife of the first civilian Governor of Ogun State, Chief Lucia Onabanjo, as a woman who rendered selfless and dedicated service to humanity, particularly in the field of education.
In a condolence message in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Chief Obasanjo described late Onabanjo as a role model whose personal life and achievements inspired generations of young people, stressing that she derived joy from mentoring and guiding younger men and women to succeed in life.
Former President said the late matriarch distinguished herself as a committed teacher in the public service, noting that the quality of her contribution was evident in the large number of students she mentored who have excelled in their various careers over the years.
Chief Obasanjo also described her as a strong advocate of women’s rights and empowerment, whose life was a source of inspiration to many Nigerian women.
The former President, who recalled that the late Chief Onabanjo fully supported her husband during his tenure as Ogun State’s first civilian Governor from 1979 to 1983, added that she would be remembered for her integrity, humility and love for the people, prayed God to grant her eternal rest.
The Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has directed the Commissioner for Education to issue letters of appointment to the first batch of newly recruited teachers in the state, describing education as the most powerful tool for individual empowerment and sustainable development.
Governor Adeleke gave the directive while speaking at the Commendation and Solidarity Parade organised by the Stay-in-School Initiative of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, Osun State Command at St. Charles Grammar School, Osogbo.
He said the directive was the decision of the State Executive Council taken in December last year, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to education and school safety.
Governor Adeleke noted that the Stay-in-School Initiative, which operates as a school policing and neighborhood watch programme in line with the Federal Government’s Safe School Initiative, underscores the state’s resolve to protect the future of its children by ensuring a safe and secure learning environment.
The governor stressed that beyond providing access to education, his administration is committed to guaranteeing the safety, retention and successful completion of schooling for every child.
Governor Adeleke expressed appreciation to the leadership and personnel of the Stay-in-School Initiative for their solidarity and support, describing security as a collective responsibility that requires the cooperation of parents, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations and the wider community.
He assured that his administration would continue to prioritise education through policies and investments aimed at protecting students from violence, crime and social vices, while providing a conducive environment for learning and character development.
In his remarks, the Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria, Osun State Command and Lead Consultant of the Stay-in-School Initiative, Commandant Ayinde Kayode, commended the Governor for his commitment to promoting education in the state, particularly his efforts at ensuring the safety of students in schools.
He pointed out that incidents of bullying and other social vices among students have been reduced to a minimal level as a result of the initiative.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Education Mr. Dipo Eluwole, had described the solidarity parade as a public affirmation of trust reposed in Governor Adeleke’s leadership, adding that 300 Peace Corps officers have been engaged under the Stay-in-School Initiative.
The Oyo State Government has disproved reports alleging that it demolished a property belonging to the former Deputy Governor of the state, Mr Rauf Olaniyan, for political reasons.
Oyo state government has denied media reports that it had demolished a property belonging to the former deputy governor of the state, Rauf Olaniyan for political reasons.
Some online media had reported that Oyo State Ministry of Land and Urban Development through its officials demolished the former governor’s property located at Temidire Zone 1, Bodija/Ojoo Expressway, Ibadan,
The Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Akin-Funmilayo Williams debunked the demolition while speaking with journalists after an on the spot assessment on the property noting that only fences erected illegally to block access road was brought down.
The commissioner also explained that the decision was taken after receiving a lot of complaints from residents of the community and serving notices to those concerned.
He said the approval claimed to be obtained by the federal ministry of lands, housing and urban development prohibited those concerned from blocking the access road linking to the major road.
The Commissioner noted that the Ministry’s officials served the former deputy governor, Rauf Olaniyan, a notice to remove the illegal structure after complaints from the residents of the community.
He added that government would not tolerate any unlawful act that would truncate the peaceful atmosphere enjoyed by the people of the state.
Super Eagles of Nigeria failed to make it back to back appearance at the African Cup of Nations, AFCON final, after losing 4-2 on penalties to the 2025 Host Nation, Morocco in the semi finals.
The Super Eagles, who were hoping to continue their perfect record in the ongoing tournament, were second best all through the game as they battled to a goalless draw in regulation time.
The game stretched to penalty shootout after both teams could not still find the back of the net after extra time.
Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemeachi both missed their spot kicks as Nigeria fell to a 4-2 defeat to Morocco.
The Super Eagles will now settle for a third place battle on Saturday with Egypt, who had earlier lost 1-0 to Senegal in the first semi final game.
The final will be between the Host Nation Atlas Lions of Morocco and the Terenga Lions of Senegal on Sunday.
Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, FRCN, Ibadan Chapel have been drawing commendations for their full and strategic participation in the 2025 NUJ State Council election as they recorded a strong showing.
The Chairman of the NUJ FRCN Chapel, Mr Oluwakayode Banjo gave the commendation at first congress of the year held at the Studio One, Broadcasting House, Dugbe Ibadan.
Mr Banjo declared that the chapel performed gallantly in the State Council poll, saying this was reflected in the elections, with two members of the FRCN Chapel, Mr Temidayo Adu, emerging as secretary and Mr Moses Morenikeji as treasurer at the state council.
The vice chairman, of the FRCN Chapel, Ms Rasheedah Makinde also commended the interventions of FRCN management for resolving emerging conflicts, the peaceful resolution of the conflict and the re-union of members.
Reacting, the Deputy Director News and Current Affairs FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Mr Adewumi Faniran urged members to be wary of unscrupulous elements in the union when taking political decisions in future.
Mr Faniran who stressed that the FRCN chapel possesses the numerical strength in determining election outcomes, however, noted that such unfaithful elements have tactics of destabilizing election at the state council, hence the need to resist their influence.
Mr Faniran who decried the monetization of NUJ politics stressed the need for adequate preparations, unity and adoption of common decision in emerging victorious.
In the same vein, the Deputy Director Programmes, DDP, FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station, Reverend Niyi Dahunsi also stressed the need for adequate preparation to prevent conflict of interest among candidates.
Members of the FRCN NUJ chapel including Deputy Director Programmes Reverend Niyi Dahunsi and Deputy Director News and Current Affairs, Mr Adewumi Faniran commended Mr Mosope Kehinde, an FRCN staff for his sportsmanship well demonstrated by stepping down for the current secretary of the union at the state council, Mr Temidayo Adu.
Highlights of the congress included prayers for members, FRCN, and Nigeria, as well as the inauguration of the FRCN NUJ Chapel Electoral Committee.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed condolences to the family of former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, over the death of their matriarch, Chief ,Mrs, Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo.
Mama Onabanjo died at the age of 101.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Tuesday, Governor Abiodun described her passing as the end of a glorious era, noting that she lived an exemplary and fulfilled life devoted to God, family, and service to humanity.
The Governor said the death of a mother is always painful, regardless of age, but noted that Mama Lucia’s longevity and impactful life were worthy of celebration.
He recalled her steadfast support for her late husband during his struggles for democracy, human rights, and social justice, describing her as a strong pillar throughout his political journey.
Governor Abiodun said Mama Onabanjo was a source of inspiration, prayer, and encouragement to many, adding that she raised children and grandchildren who have distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavour.
He prayed that God grant the deceased eternal rest and give the Onabanjo family, friends, and associates the strength to bear the loss.
Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of the Akran of Badagry, Oba De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I.
Chief Obasanjo said the news of the monarch’s death was a rude shock, describing the late traditional ruler as one of the most respected monarchs in Lagos State.
The former President noted that Oba Menu-Toyi I lived a fulfilled life spanning over eight decades and reigned for about fifty years, during which Badagry Kingdom enjoyed peace, stability and progress.
He described Badagry as a historic kingdom with a rich cultural heritage, noting that the late monarch was a patriotic custodian of tradition who devoted himself to preserving and promoting the values of his people, while fostering unity, peace and development across Badagry.
The former President commiserated with the Lagos State government ,the people of Badagry and the royal family, urging them to take solace in the belief that the late monarch lived a worthy life of service.
Professor Musibau Babatunde has been sworn in as the newly appointed Secretary to the Oyo State Government.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who swore in the new SSG after he took the oath of office and allegiance at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, noted that, Professor Babatunde played a vital role in drafting his administration’s development roadmap, describing him as a key member of the team that laid the foundation for the government’s achievements.
Reflecting on his leadership journey, Governor Makinde said that although his government started well, it must also “finish strong,” stressing that governance is a continuous cycle that requires renewal and strategic repositioning.
He urged the new SSG to foster unity within the government team, urging all officials to avoid internal conflicts and distractions, and to remain focused on the mandate given by the people of Oyo State.
In an interview,the newly appointed SSG, Professor Musibau Babatunde promised to ensure efficient and effective service delivery through improved coordination of government activities.
Professor Babatunde also assured residents that the government would adopt a more coordinated approach to policy implementation, with a focus on delivering tangible outcomes that positively impact citizens.
Recalled, Governor Makinde on January 5 announced Professor Musibau Babatunde as the new Secretary to the State Government, SSG, taking over from Professor Olanike Adeyemo.
The controversial musician, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has been arraigned before Magistrate Court 1 sitting in Ota, Ogun State, over nine-count charges.
The charges include assault, occasional harm, stealing, resisting arrest and serious assault on a police officer, among others.
Portable, who had been having repeated encounters with law enforcement agencies over various offences, was denied bail by the court and subsequently ordered to be remanded at the Ibara Correctional Centre in Abeokuta.
The magistrate adjourned the case to January 19, 2026, for further hearing.
In a stunning end to a celebrated chapter, Real Madrid announced the immediate departure of head coach Xabi Alonso.
The club confirmed the split was by mutual agreement, abruptly concluding the legend’s tenure.
In a statement on the club’s website, the club expressed its enduring affection and admiration for Alonso, hailing him as a permanent legend who embodies Madrid’s values and will always consider the Bernabéu his home.
Real Madrid thanked him and his staff for their dedication, wishing them well in future endeavors.
Despite swirling media reports pinning the decision solely on Alonso, sources suggest the reality is more nuanced, lying somewhere between club and coach.
In a swift move, Castilla coach and former teammate Álvaro Arbeloa has been elevated to fill the vacant leadership role, marking a dramatic new turn for the club.
The Federal Government has inaugurated the ₦40 billion Close Circuit Television (CCTV) Monitoring Centre for the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos State, marking a major step in strengthening infrastructure security and traffic management.
Inaugurating the facility, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, said the administration inherited the Third Mainland Bridge, alongside Carter Bridge and Iddo Bridge, in a severely deteriorated condition when it assumed office in 2023.
“When we came on board in 2023, we met a very terrible Third Mainland Bridge, Carter Bridge and Iddo Bridge—on the pavement, surface, infrastructure above the water and even below the water,” Senator Umahi said.
He explained that President Bola Tinubu consequently ordered a total re-evaluation and comprehensive rehabilitation of the bridges, including the replacement of faulty expansion joints on the Third Mainland Bridge.
According to the minister, the completed rehabilitation has restored public confidence and improved safety, noting that Lagos residents expressed satisfaction with the quality of work delivered.
“Lagosians were very happy with the President for that beautiful work, and the project is still succeeding because of its quality,” he added.
Senator Umahi commended the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which built the CCTV centre, for what he described as a professional and high-quality execution of the project.
He disclosed that, as part of the contract, the Ministry of Works would hand over a surveillance boat and two Hilux vans to the Nigeria Police for effective monitoring of activities on and around the bridge.
He added that other security agencies could be integrated into the monitoring framework if necessary.
“The idea of this project is that we now have a lay-by on the bridge and can view everything happening on the bridge in real time,” the minister said.
Senator Umahi also raised concerns about excessive speeding by motorists on the bridge, urging strict adherence to traffic rules and regulations to prevent accidents.
Earlier, the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos, Mr Olufemi Dare, described the CCTV monitoring centre as the first of its kind in Nigeria, noting that it would significantly enhance bridge surveillance, safety, and rapid response to incidents.
Normalcy has returned to Ikoyi-Ile community in Oyo State after security agencies confirmed that the reported bandit threat that sparked panic over the weekend was a hoax.
The Oyo State Police Command led the response after receiving intelligence reports about a handwritten note allegedly dropped in front of a residential building in Ikoyi-Ile, Orire Local Government Area.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the note—written in both Yoruba and English—claimed that suspected bandits planned to attack the community.
He said the development prompted the command to immediately activate its intelligence, tactical, and operational response mechanisms, including increased police presence along the Ikoyi-Ile Road.
However, subsequent investigations revealed that the threat was not genuine.
Confirming the situation in an exclusive interview with Radio Nigeria, the Ashipa of Onikoyi Kingdom, Chief Saka Akanji, dismissed reports of any bandit invasion and assured residents that peace had fully returned to the area.
Chief Akanji explained that children allegedly placed a threat letter on major streets in the community, using stones to hold it down and prevent it from being blown away.
He said the act unintentionally triggered fear among residents before security agencies intervened.
Chief Akanji commended the swift response of the police and urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and avoid spreading unverified information that could cause unnecessary panic.
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested controversial musician Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, again, and ordered an investigation into a viral video showing his alleged assault while in custody.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi who confirmed the arrest, said Portable was currently being detained by the police, but described the actions seen in the circulating video as unacceptable and contrary to police standards.
Mr Babaseyi condemned the alleged beating of the handcuffed suspect and the filming of suspects in custody, stressing that the police do not permit such conduct under any circumstance.
The police spokesperson assured that the Command had ordered a full investigation into the incident captured in the video, adding that appropriate action would be taken against any personnel found culpable.
Although the reason for Portable’s arrest was yet to be disclosed as at the time of filing this report, it would be recalled that he was recently involved in a violent scuffle with one of his wives and other family members.
Osun state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has welcomed the call by Sally Tibbot Limited on the anti-corruption agencies to review the controversial Osun State Staff Audit Report. In a statement by his Spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor said both the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, are free to review the audit report. Governor Adeleke noted that what anti-corruption agencies will be checking and reviewing was the inherited payroll and personnel list from the former governor Oyetola’s administration. “Our administration did not and has not expanded the personnel and payroll structures inherited from the last administration. Moreover, what was audited was the payroll and personnel structure under Oyetola’s administration. The Governor said he should be commended for not accepting the recommendations of the consultant to lay off legitimate workers for the consultant’s personal gain. He pointed out that his administration stopped likely fraud even while pushing to clean up the system.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintain a safe, secured, and stable environment, by improving its security architecture
He stated this at the 2026 armed forces remembrance day church service held at the Cathedral of St. Peters, Aremo, Ibadan.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Makinde represented by the Chief of Staff, Segun Ogunwuyi applauded the strength, endurance and resilience of the Nigerian armed forces, in the face of the security challenges facing the nation.
He renewed his unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all residents of the state by working closely with armed forces and other paramilitary forces.
Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army, Ibadan, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife,commended the sacrifices of the Nigerian armed forces who fight daily to ensure that the country is safe.
Earlier, the Provost of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan, the Most Reverend Samuel Olawoyin, emphasized the importance of honoring the nation’s fallen heroes, stressing that it is crucial to remember and recognize the dedication, perseverance, and sacrifices made by the heroes to uphold Nigeria’s unity and oneness, even in the face of adversity and persecution.
Special prayers were offered for the nation, Oyo State, members of the armed forces and families of fallen heroes.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has asked the church to keep praying for sustainable growth and development in Oyo State.
The governor said this at the Thanksgiving Service held at Rehoboth Cathedral, Oluyole Estate, Ibadan.
While expressing his appreciation to God for keeping the state safe and prosperous under his watch, Governor Makinde also thanked the church for supporting his administration right from the outset.
While assuring of his administration’s determination to continually improve the infrastructure, Makinde promised to fix Elebu and BCJ roads before the end of his tenure.
Earlier, the Presiding Bishop of Rehoboth Cathedral, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun, said people should give thanks to God because it is a command by the Almighty, adding that doing so is the key to abundant life.
He prayed that Governor Makinde would finish on a high note. He also prayed for continued progress in the state.
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed a major fire outbreak at the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone, Igbesa, affecting several industrial facilities and adjoining residential buildings.
In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ogun State Command, Mr Oluseyi Babaseyi said the inferno was traced to a gas-related explosion at a foam-manufacturing company located within the trade zone.
Mr Babaseyi explained that the fire rapidly spread to surrounding structures due to the presence of flammable materials and the close proximity of industrial buildings.
The Ogun State Police Command added that a full investigation had been launched to determine the exact cause of the fire and to review safety compliance by companies operating within the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone.
