The Senior Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Political Affairs, Otunba Tunde Badmus has paid heartfelt tribute to the late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke (Serubawon), the first Executive Governor of Osun State, on the occasion of his 70th posthumous birthday, says MY BOSS, OUR BOSS LIVES ON.
In his tribute, Otunba Tunde Badmus emphasized that Senator Isiaka Adeleke, fondly known as “Serubawon,” was a trailblazer whose leadership redefined governance in Osun State. His passion for the well-being of the people, coupled with his unparalleled generosity, remains a guiding light for all who strive to lead with integrity.
“Today, as we commemorate the 70th posthumous birthday of our beloved Boss, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, it is with profound honor and a heart filled with admiration that I pay tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on our lives and the history of Osun State. Known fondly as ‘Serubawon,’ he was a visionary, a political icon, and a leader with a golden heart whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
“Senator Adeleke, the first Executive Governor of Osun State, was a trailblazer whose tenure prioritized the welfare of the people above all else. His commitment to humanity was unparalleled, and his acts of kindness remain etched in the hearts of many. Whether through groundbreaking policies, empowerment initiatives, or his unwavering support for the downtrodden, he embodied the true essence of servant leadership.
“To me, Senator Adeleke was more than a political figure. He was a mentor, a father figure, and a leader. His guidance shaped my understanding of leadership as a tool for transforming lives. His humility, generosity, and dedication to justice serve as a benchmark for all who aspire to lead.
“Though he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the milestones he achieved. As we celebrate his 70th posthumous birthday, we honor not only his memory but also the ideals he stood for. May his soul continue to rest in peace, and may his legacy remain a beacon of hope and inspiration.”
Otunba Tunde Badmus is the PA/Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Affairs.
The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, said Nigerians will have to pay 30-60 percent more for calls, data, and other services in the telecommunications sector.
Tijani disclosed this in a recent interview with Channels Television.
According to him, the telecommunications sector is entirely about investment to spur Nigeria’s economic growth.
He noted that investors in the sector continuously invest in equipment to remain relevant despite inflation.
“I think the telecommunications tariff increase should not be more than 30 to 60 percent.
“The sector is about investment in infrastructure; the technologies are changing, so you have to keep investing in technology. Things like 3G will be decommissioned at some point because you have higher technology, so they have to keep investing in equipment. And we all know that there is inflation. For us, as we are protecting them, we want to keep importing capital in the sector. The foreign direct investment in our sector in the first quarter of 2024, driven by telcos, was close to $199 million; this is bigger than the entire inflow in 2023. We can’t get to a $1 trillion economy if mobile network operators are investing at a snail’s pace,” he stated.
This comes days after he confirmed that Nigeria’s telecom services tariff will be increased; however, not 100 per cent.
THE LAST KID TO SEE AKINTOLA ALIVE JANUARY 15th 1966…..59 YEARS AGO.
The 1966 Coup 59 years later. I Believe In Premier Ladoke Akintola 💔🕊️🇳🇬 by #DrKemi Lawrence January 15th 2025
Remember the 17 month old child in the car 🚙 that was seen leaving Ladoke Akintola’s house in Iyaganku, Ibadan January 15th 1966 moments before the army arrived to KILL him in that gun battle.
That was me Olukemi Olunloyo. My dad came to drop a letter to him to leave and that they had killed “everyone” in the North. 59 years ago Jan 15th 1966, a distinguished man was killed in Western Nigeria and he was the PREMIER. This anniversary of the day Nigeria changed forever let’s remember Samuel Ladoke Akintola, His deputy Premier Remi Fani-Kayode and his youngest commisioner (Special Duties and Economic planning) Victor Omololu Olunloyo my dad.
My father was 30yo and a commissioner in Akintola’s government. He ran to Akintola’s house that morning before the soldiers arrived. My mom a 26yo secretarial assistant was the one typing the letters fast as she told me.
I was 17 mos old and sick that morning sitting next to her then later taken to UI’s Jaja clinic. The letters were to tell the cabinet and others that the soldiers were “COMING”
and they had killed Ahmadu Bello, Tafawa Balewa and Okotie-Eboh that morning. Meanwhile in Agodi government house, the Premier had vanished and went to his private residence armed with guns in Iyaganku.
My dad was with him while I was in the backseat of the car and told Akintola to leave! He said I will be an “Omo Akin” his last words meaning BRAVE TILL THE END. Akintola reportedly exchanged gunfire with the soldiers. MY FATHER AND I HAD JUST LEFT HIS HOUSE THAT MORNING minutes before the army arrived !! They could have killed him too considering they were sparing the children that morning and letting us witness TRAUMA.
Meanwhile on the Remi Fani-Kayode side at the Deputy Premiere’s residence in Agodi (still the Deputy Governor’s residence to this date) the soldiers arrived and were beating the hell out of @realFFK’s father with their guns RIGHT IN FRONT OF FEMI WHO WAS 5yo. Femi, myself and my mom recounted this moment Jan 2016 over the phone on the 50th anniversary. Femi told my mom he vividly remembers the tying up of his dad, the beatings, then the army coupists took his dad away. Remi Fani-Kayode later escaped death fleeing from the army coup plotters.
These pictures are the day my dad narrated it fully to me calling me to make an appointment to see him in his office. This is what he wanted to put on the record for me before he dies. My dad and I would not be here today if the army had met us there, but then remember the pattern: they did not kill the children but killed and tortured parents in front of kids. Femi watched his dad beaten, the Ademulegun kids watched their dad and pregnant mom executed.
The picture of Akintola at his office in 1960-1966 like they display on the wall of the Governor’s office remains in my dad’s office in Molete till today. Remember your heritage.
The coup was orchestrated by junior Igbo military officers and Ojukwu, Nnamdi Azikiwe and other top Eastern region leaders were conveniently OUT OF THE COUNTRY on vacation in the Caribbean when this mayhem and carnage happened. The July coup 6 months later was worse. A lot of Igbos were eliminated in revenge. WHAT A YEAR in Nigeria.
From an excerpt of my upcoming ebook #TheChildrenof1966
@HQNigerianArmy
WE DON’T NEED SANUSI’S STAMP OF APPROVAL FOR FG’s LAUDABLE POLICIES
The Federal Government notes the recent remarks by His Highness, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, regarding the economic reforms introduced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, at a public event in Lagos. We note the emir’s acknowledgement of the noble initiatives which, he said, he could explain away but for his decision “not to help the government”.
First, we acknowledge that Sanusi, and indeed any Nigerian, has the inalienable right to express an opinion either in the form of commendation or criticism on how the government is being run. However, we find it amusing that a leader, more so one from an institution that ennobles forthrightness, fairness, and justice, would publicly admit to shuffling off telling the truth because of personal interest hinged on imaginary antagonism.
It is pertinent to state that Nigeria is at a pivotal juncture where bold and decisive actions are necessary to tackle entrenched economic challenges. This administration has implemented transformative reforms not because they are easy, but because they are essential for securing Nigeria’s long-term stability and growth, as Emir Sanusi had consistently advocated.
The temporary pains currently experienced from these inevitable decisions, as Sanusi himself acknowledged, are a “necessary consequence of decades of irresponsible economic management” more than anything else.
These reforms are already delivering measurable progress. The unification of exchange rates has bolstered investor confidence, which has contributed to increased foreign reserves and strengthened Nigeria’s ability to shield itself from external economic shocks. The removal of the fuel subsidy has freed up significant resources, allowing for greater investment in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Projections from respected institutions, including the World Bank, show an upward trajectory in Nigeria’s GDP, signalling that our economy is firmly on the path to recovery. Additionally, by addressing inefficiencies, the country has reduced its debt service-to-revenue ratio, creating a more sustainable fiscal framework for future generations.
It is deeply disappointing that reforms widely recognized as essential by global experts—including by Emir Sanusi II himself—are now being subtly condemned by him because of shift in loyalty. His Highness, given his background in economics, has a unique responsibility to contribute constructively rather than undermine reforms aimed at collective progress because he feels estranged from his “friends” in government.
We urge the Emir to rise above personal interests and partisan undertones and prioritize the greater good of Nigerians.
Rebuilding Nigeria requires unity, focus, and sacrifice from all stakeholders. As a government, we urge esteemed leaders to refrain from rhetoric that undermines public trust. Instead, they owe it a duty to champion the collective goal of a prosperous Nigeria. This is a critical time for our country, what is needed is collaboration, not unnecessary distractions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolute in its mission to lead Nigeria towards economic inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity. The challenges we face demand courage and collective effort, not divisive narratives. This administration is open to constructive dialogue with all well-meaning stakeholders while remaining steadfast in putting the interests of Nigerians above all else.
Let history record this moment as a turning point—when leaders and citizens alike choose to prioritize the nation’s destiny over personal gain. Together, we will deliver on the promise of renewed hope and a better Nigeria for all.
The Naira yesterday depreciated to N1,670 per dollar in the parallel market from N1,660 per dollar on Tuesday. Similarly, the Naira depreciated to N1,550 per dollar in the official foreign exchange market.
Data published by the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, showed that the exchange rate for Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) rose to N1,550 per dollar from N1,549 per dollar on Tuesday, indicating N1 depreciation for the naira.
Consequently, the margin between the parallel market and NFEM rate widened to N120 per dollar from N111 per dollar on Tuesday.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Folashade Arinola Adekaiyaoja, as the Deputy Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS).
The approval, the first of its kind by any President, it was gathered, seeks to revise the agency’s structure for better efficiency. This, it was learnt, is in line with the original organogram of the Service.
Checks revealed that the DSS is structured to comprise three Deputy Directors General in its hierarchy.
The appointment and ratification by the President was based on the recommendation of the DG, through the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, The Nation learnt.
“It is line with its extant regulations and unprecedented in the history of the Secret Service,” a source said
The appointment of Adekaiyaoja, a native of Kogi state was celebrated by a cross section of officers and operatives who see her as eminently qualified for the position, it was learnt.
It was further gathered that President Tinubu had, in line with his promise to improve on the security of life and property of Nigerians, tasked the heads of security agencies to come up with proposals on how to improve on their service delivery.
“It was on this note that the President approved the DG’s recommendation, which many serving and retired officers are confident would boost career progression in the Service,” the source said.
President Tinubu had at the the investiture ceremony of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Executive Intelligence Management Course 17 graduates last December, promised to support the DSS and other security agencies with Artificial Intelligence- powered state-of-the-art equipment to combat insecurity across the country.
Speaking through the NSA, the president stated that he was not oblivious of the security challenges in contemporary times, and charged all security agencies to synergize for the common good of Nigerians.
The DSS Director-General, Mr. Oluwastosin Ajayi, had on assumption of office late August 2024, promised sweeping reforms in the Organization, which he assured would transform the DSS into one of the most efficient covert Security Agencies in the world.
The Ihovbor 230MW power plant has successfully rejoined the national grid after more than a decade-long hiatus, in a major boost to Nigeria’s energy sector.
Nigeria has faced a persistent energy crisis with frequent blackouts and power shortages that have stymied economic growth and hindered the daily lives of millions of citizens.
The re-commissioning of Ihovbor is seen as a significant step towards increasing the country’s electricity generation capacity.
The management of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), led by Jennifer Adighije, managing director/CEO, and Abdullahi Kassim, executive director (Generation), announced the successful restoration of two turbine units at the Ihovbor Power Plant during a visit to the facility in Benin on January 8 2024.
Adighije emphasised that this marks a significant milestone in achieving sector-wide goals under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises access to reliable, affordable, and accessible electricity for all Nigerians.
“The restoration of these units aligns with the ongoing industry transition to bilateral trading deals.
“We already have offtakers and potential customers eager for the energy we produce, which will enhance the revenue-generating potential of the company,” she said.
Adighije further noted that the earning potential of the NDPHC is directly tied to its generation capacity, underscoring the urgency of restoring all idle units across its power generation portfolio.
“This achievement is a testament to our commitment to accelerating the restoration of generating units, as it remains central to the vision of NDPHC management,” she added.
Advisors Reports has gathered that the Ihovbor Power Plant in Edo State, Nigeria, referred to as Ihovbor 1, is poised to contribute significantly to commercial clusters in Edo state and environs through bilateral power deals, following the restoration of two turbine units.
The plant, commissioned in May 2013, was designed to generate 450MW from four gas turbine units, each with a capacity of 112.5MW.
However, operational challenges, including gas supply shortages and inefficiencies, have plagued the facility, resulting in prolonged downtime.
Further checks by Advisors Reports revealed that as of November 2024, the plant was producing only 73MW—approximately 15 percent of its installed capacity.
Since commissioning, just the two reactivated units of its four units have been operational, supplying around 225MW to the national grid when gas supply is adequate.
The recent restoration of two additional turbine units is expected to increase the plant’s output by 230MW, enhancing its role in meeting the power demands of commercial and industrial clusters in the region.
The Federal Government has confirmed multiple outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu, in Kano State, impacting various bird species, including layers, ducks, guinea fowl, and turkeys.
In a circular signed by Dr. Taiwo Olasoju on behalf of the Chief Veterinary Officer of Nigeria, authorities warned of a high risk of disease spread, urging the immediate activation of surveillance and response systems.
“We need to implement strict preventive measures,” the circular stated, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity protocols and educating stakeholders, including poultry farmers, traders, and the general public. The directive also stressed prompt reporting of suspicious cases to mitigate further spread.
Dr. Olasoju highlighted the critical need for these measures to prevent the virus from reaching neighbouring states or spreading nationwide.
The Chairman of the Poultry Association of Nigeria (PAN) in Kano State, Dr. Usman Gwarzo, confirmed the outbreak and detailed an incident believed to be linked to the spread.
“In December 2024, a secondary school student from Galadanchi Quarters in Gwale LGA purchased a duck from Janguza Market in Tofa LGA. After mixing the duck with his flock of hens and chickens, the duck died, followed by the death of several chickens,” he explained.
Samples taken to Gwale Veterinary Clinic confirmed the presence of Avian Influenza in early January 2025.
Dr. Gwarzo noted that no similar cases have been reported from commercial poultry farms. He assured that the PAN Kano chapter is working closely with the state government to create awareness and encourage farmers to report any unusual bird deaths for prompt action.
The Central Bank of Nigeria has sanctioned nine Deposit Money Banks with fines totalling N1.35bn for failing to ensure cash availability via Automated Teller Machines during the festive season.
Each of the banks was fined N150m following spot checks that revealed non-compliance with the apex bank’s cash distribution guidelines.
The affected banks include Fidelity Bank Plc, First Bank Plc, Keystone Bank Plc, Union Bank Plc, Globus Bank Plc, Providus Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, and Sterling Bank Plc.
The fines will be directly debited from the banks’ accounts with the CBN.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, the Acting Director of Corporate Communications at the CBN, Mrs Hakama Sidi Ali, emphasised the regulator’s commitment to ensuring seamless cash availability.
The statement read, “In a clear message of zero tolerance for cash flow disruptions, the Central Bank of Nigeria has sanctioned Deposit Money Banks for failing to make Naira notes available through automated teller machines, during the yuletide season.
“Each bank was fined N150m for non-compliance, in line with the CBN’s cash distribution guidelines, following spot checks on their branches. The enforcement action follows repeated warnings from the CBN to financial institutions to guarantee seamless cash availability, particularly during periods of high demand.
“The affected banks include Fidelity Bank Plc, First Bank Plc, Keystone Bank Plc, Union Bank Plc, Globus Bank Plc, Providus Bank Plc, Zenith Bank Plc, United Bank for Africa Plc, and Sterling Bank Plc.”
Sidi-Ali noted that CBN will not hesitate to impose further sanctions on any institution violating its cash circulation guidelines.
The apex bank had previously warned banks to comply with cash distribution policies.
The CBN has pledged to intensify monitoring of cash hoarding and rationing at bank branches and Point-of-Sale terminals.
The regulator was collaborating with security agencies to address illegal cash sales and ensure compliance with the daily withdrawal limit of N1.2m for POS operators.
Last September, the CBN announced plans to penalise banks failing to dispense cash via ATMs as part of efforts to ensure adequate cash circulation.
In November, the bank urged customers to report ATM and branch cash withdrawal issues starting December 1, 2024, through designated state-specific phone numbers and email addresses.
The fines underline CBN’s determination to prioritise customer needs and ensure uninterrupted access to cash.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, has said that the umpire would require about N126bn to fund its activities in 2025 and begin preparation for the 2027 general elections.
Mahmood stated this at the National Assembly Complex while defending the 2025 budget proposal before the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters.
According to him, the N40bn proposed for the Commission in the 2025 budget proposal by President Bola Tinubu is inadequate considering the payment of salaries and allowances for the year given the recent increase in the minimum wage.
He noted that in 2024, INEC was allocated the same N40bn, which only covered salaries and some social contributions such as NHIS contributions, pensions, and ITF, among others.
He said, “We complained about the allocations, and you asked what we thought would be adequate. We made a proposal of N80bn then. We are aware that you made efforts to ensure an increase, but that did not work.
“On our part, we made efforts and approached the executive for more funds, and we were able to get about N10.5bn from the executive to take care of the Edo and Ondo governorship elections. That was why we were able to conduct those elections and came out successful.”
He described 2025 as a critical year, saying, “We have the Anambra governorship election coming up later in the year. Provision for preparation for that election is not in the budget.
“We must prepare for the conduct of the Area Council elections scheduled for February 2026, and the budget for that election is not in this budget. We must monitor party primaries for these elections, including the conduct of bye-elections, and the budget for that is not in the current budget.
“Also, we must begin preparation for the 2027 general elections this year. We have not commenced the continuous voter registration exercise because of a lack of money. We have to start this year and end it in 2026. We must also begin the redistribution of voters to polling units from those that are overpopulated. All these activities cost money, and that has not been considered in this budget,” he added.
The INEC boss also noted that the Commission has about 11 bye-elections this year, both in the National and state Houses of Assembly, as a result of death and resignation, adding that the Commission has been able to secure about N500m from the government for that purpose, adding that the money will, however, not be enough to cover the cost of the exercise.
Yakubu lamented that despite the inflationary trend in the country, the Commission is still being allocated N40bn without consideration of the increase in minimum wage.
In his words, INEC currently has over 14,700 staff members apart from political appointees affiliated with the commission.
He listed the political appointees in the commission to include the chairman and 12 national commissioners, 37 resident Electoral commissioners, and their aides, who draw salaries and allowances from the funds allocated to the commission.
He also said that the Commission has over 850 buildings across the country in need of renovation as well as offices in the 8, 809 wards, 774 local government, 36 state offices and the Federal Capital Territory.
He also disclosed that currently, there are still 59 local government offices located in local government headquarters that it planned to relocate, stressing that if the N126b budget proposal is approved, the commission is targeting the relocation of at least 30 of them in 2025.
The INEC Chairman also disclosed that the Commission planned to replace some of its items, such as BVAS machines, voting cubicles and other materials, adding that between the conduct of the 2023 general election and now, the commission has lost about 440 BVAS machines.
He, however, added that INEC has collected an insurance premium of about N205m for the damaged BVAS.
He said, “That money was not paid directly to the Commission. It was paid directly to government coffers.”
Reacting to the presentation by the INEC Chairman, Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT) urged the parliament to look inward and come up with adequate funding for INEC to enable it to discharge its responsibility to the nation.
She said, “INEC has to be independent, and whatever we have to do to get funding for the commission must be done. It is not whether the commission will get the money. It has to get the money needed. ”
Also contributing, a member of the House of Representatives, Adeboye Paul, said, “From what we are seeing, it is clear that we are running a dangerous system. We are all participants in the electoral process, and we know what goes on. When there is a shortfall, the local government comes in to supplement, and that is dangerous for the system.
“If the essence of budget defence is that we cannot make input, why then do we embark on the exercise? Last year, we were here in this same situation, and we made efforts to improve the budget to no avail. We need to deliberate on how best to assist the commission and save our democracy. If we allow them to continue going cap in hand to the executive for funds, that is not good for democracy in this country.”
The budget defence later went into a closed-door session between the joint committee and the INEC chairman and seven national commissioners and directors were also in attendance.
