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By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   The Chairman of the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC), Prof. Richard Adegbola, has urged government and relevant stakeholders to view the renewal of Fatima College, Ikire, as a shared responsibility. Adegbola made the call on Saturday in Ikire while delivering a lecture to mark the 70th anniversary of the college. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that his lecture was titled “Honouring a Missionary Legacy, Reclaiming Excellence and Reimagining the Future.” Adegbola, a 1968 alumnus, urged government, the Catholic mission, alumni and the wider community to treat Fatima College’s renewal as a shared investment in human capital development and moral leadership. He noted that Fatima College was facing challenges arising from changing educational standards, resource constraints, governance pressures and a gradual erosion of the disciplined academic culture that once defined its excellence. According to him, reimagining the future of ...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   Most Rev. Alaba Job, the Archbishop Emeritus, Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, has emphasised the need for government to return missionary schools to their original state and rightful owners. He said this on Saturday in Ikire, during the thanksgiving mass and blessing of the renovated chapel by Fatima College Ikire, 1976 set, in commemoration of the school’s 70th anniversary. He urged the Fatima College, Ikire, Old Boys Alumni to arise and ensure that government returns missionary schools such as fatima, to their original state and owners. He urged the old boys alumni of the college to champion the cause and reclaim the school’s heritage. The priest expressed hope that the school would regain its freedom and original status if the alumni engaged in the pursuit. “The school is celebrating its 70th anniversary but do you like what you see today? “I challenge you to arise, wake up and never sit back in this pursuit of the school return, so that it can sh...

PRESS STATEMENT:  The Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the declaration of Monday, 2nd February and Tuesday, 3rd February, 2026 as public holidays across the State. The declaration is to enable residents of Ondo State fully participate in activities lined up to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the creation of Ondo State, a historic milestone that marks five decades of growth, resilience and collective progress. The Governor urges citizens to use the opportunity of the holidays to join in the celebrations, reflect on the State’s journey so far, and recommit themselves to the shared vision of building a more prosperous and united Ondo State. Essential service providers are, however, advised to make adequate arrangements to ensure uninterrupted services during the period. Signed: Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State January 31, 2026.

Stakeholders in gender advocacy, government agencies and civil society organisations have called for stronger collaboration to end gender-based violence and promote gender equality following the official flag-off of the Male Feminist Networks (MFN) in Ondo State. The programme, organised by the New Initiative for Social Development (NISD) under the Male Feminist Network Project, was launched on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, in Akure.  The initiative aims to engage men as active allies in challenging gender-based violence, supporting women’s rights and transforming harmful gender norms to build a more inclusive and equitable society. The two-year project is being implemented across four Southwest states—Ondo, Osun, Ekiti and Oyo—and is funded by the Ford Foundation in partnership with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre-LSD). Speaking at the event, NISD Programme Officer, Mr. Ojo Olusegun, said the Male Feminist Networks are designed to advance gender equali...

‎ ‎ By Afolabi Oriola  ‎ ‎The Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences (FUTES), Iyin-Ekiti, has commenced admission into its Pre-Degree Programme, offering prospective students opportunities across 35 courses in four faculties duly approved and accredited by the National Universities Commission (NUC). ‎The programme, according to the university, is designed to adequately prepare candidates for admission into 100 Level undergraduate programmes by strengthening their academic foundation, addressing identified O’Level deficiencies and enhancing performance in JAMB/UTME and Post-UTME examinations. ‎ ‎A statement issued by the FUTES management stated that applicants must possess a minimum of five O-Level credits, including English Language, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and other relevant subjects, obtained in SSCE, NECO, or NABTEB examinations. ‎ ‎Prospective candidates are required to obtain application forms online at the cost of ₦10,000 via the university portal by ...

The Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, has charged Corps Members of the 2026 Batch ‘A’ Stream One to uphold the vision, mission, and core values of the Scheme as they embark on the journey of national service.  He gave the charge during his working visit to the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Iseyin, Oyo State. Addressing the Corps Members, the Director General reaffirmed the objectives of the NYSC, stressing discipline, patriotism, national unity, and selfless service as pillars of the Scheme.  He described the service year as a defining phase for character formation and nation-building, noting that the conduct of Corps Members, both within and outside the camp, must consistently reflect the ideals of the NYSC. Brig Gen OO Nafiu placed strong emphasis on cultural integration, urging Corps Members to respect the customs, traditions, and taboos of their host communities.  He encouraged them to deliberately learn, appreciate, and adap...

  New students at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), have been charged to adhere strictly to university rules, maintain discipline, and prepare for rigorous academic work. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, issued the warning during his address at the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session on Thursday, 29 January 2026. In his address, Prof. Ige stated that the matriculation formally inducted the 8,000 new students into the institution, marking the beginning of their journey to achieve their aspirations. He noted that they were the most qualified candidates selected from over 18,000 applicants, a process which reflected the University's unwavering commitment to merit. “This University does not lower its standards to fill its halls; it raises individuals to meet its standards,” he declared. The Vice Chancellor was unequivocal on conduct, declaring a zero-tolerance policy towards social vices. “This University has zero tolerance for all forms o...

The Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, has disclosed that at least 15 female students have been expelled for engaging in acts of indiscipline . The affected students were reportedly involved in making sex videos, an offence that contravenes the rules and regulations of the institution. The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Prof. Bode Ayorinde, disclosed this at the university’s matriculation ceremony on Friday, where a total of 936 students took the matriculation oath. He urged students to avoid behaviour that could lead to the loss of their studentship, emphasising that the university has zero tolerance for indiscipline. He said, “You put your phone before you and you’re dancing naked and they put Achievers University, I will dismiss you. Use social media for positive things. “One of them, who would have graduated, was caught threatening that if Boko Haram came to Achievers University, he would deal with them, essentially inviting Boko Haram. We refunded his N2...

By Eleniola Bamidele, Ekiti  The Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) once again reaffirmed its commitment to innovation, digital learning, and creative collaboration with the successful hosting of EDUTECHMENT 2.0, the second edition of its Education, Technology and Entertainment initiative. The event attracted a diverse mix of academics, students, alumni, industry experts, creatives, musicians, Nollywood actors, and traditional rulers, creating a unique convergence of intellect, culture, and creativity within the university space. Speaking at the second edition of Edutechment, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, warmly welcomed all guests and participants to the event. He apologised for his late arrival and expressed gratitude to the organisers for sustaining the Edutechment initiative. The Vice-Chancellor also acknowledged the honour earlier bestowed on him by the Faculties of Management Sciences and Engineering, describing it...

This is to formally announce the postponement of the Tinubu/ Datiwa Half a Million Man Walk, which was earlier scheduled to hold on 31 January 2026. The postponement has become necessary due to the ongoing 50th Anniversary celebrations of Ondo State, which commenced yesterday and will culminate on 3 February 2026. In honour of our dear state and to allow full participation in these historic celebrations, it has become pertinent to reschedule the event to a later date. A new date for the programme will be communicated in due course. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this postponement may cause our teeming supporters who were already prepared to participate in this epoch-making event, held in support of the second-term bid of our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with the backing of our Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. We look forward to hosting you soon. Signed Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye Bonsue SSA on Sports to the Governor of Ondo State and State Coordinator for h...

Tension gripped parts of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, following the arrest of a man identified as Bola Oladi during a stop-and-search operation conducted by security operatives in the city.   According to sources, the suspect was apprehended by police officers on 28th January 2026, during a routine patrol when security personnel allegedly carried out a search on him and subsequently examined the contents of his mobile phone. Investigators reportedly discovered what they described as “vital evidence” on the device, including private conversations, photographs, and other digital materials allegedly linking the suspect to bisexual activities.   The discovery, according to security sources, immediately raised suspicion and led to Bola Oladi’s detention for further interrogation at a police facility in Ibadan. Police sources further disclosed that investigations have now been extended to another man identified as Ademola Olufemi Adedeji, who is believed to be closel...

The Olore In Council of Ore Kingdom, comprising of high chiefs, chiefs, women's chiefs, and Olojas and baales, wishes to address a circulating news item attributed to Chief Aladenika Akindele. We categorically state that the claim that CHIEF TOPE IJINIGA, THE AYADI OF ORE KINGDOM, is not part of Olore In Council is FALSE and MISLEADING. Chief Tope Ijiniga is a bonafide and qualified Chief in Ore Kingdom, and a rightful member of Olore In Council. This statement is issued to set the record straight and protect the integrity of our revered institution. We, the OLOLE IN COUNCIL is agitating for a Substantive monarch in Ore Kingdom! We reject "REGENT". E-Signed, Olore In Council, Ore Kingdom

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Higher National Diploma (HND) graduates of the Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology (OYSCHST) can now participate in the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme. OYSCHST Provost, Mrs Oluyemisi Oyewo, disclosed this on Thursday during the institution’s 2025/2026 matriculation in Ibadan. Oyewo said that NYSC recently listed the college among the institutions producing corps members in Nigeria. “Before now, the institution was not participating. “This is huge, and we are grateful for it,” she said. She remarked that the college had, over the years, built a strong reputation for producing skilled, competent and ethical health professionals. According to her, the professionals contribute meaningfully to the healthcare system in the state and beyond. “The school’s programmes are designed in line with national and international standards, with strong emphasis on professionalism, practical skills and community-oriented healthcare delivery,” ...

The disabled community in Ondo State has appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene in the administration of the Agency for the Welfare of Persons with Disabilities, citing poor leadership and mismanagement of funds. In a letter signed by Olabiwonninu Gideon Joseph and Inioluwa Praise, APC Disable Elders Forum, the community expressed disappointment and frustration with the current leadership of the agency, led by Folasade, who they claim is causing unrest and blocking progress. The community recalled that the Governor had previously announced Folasade's removal, but she has refused to step down, leading to tensions and conflicts within the agency. They also alleged that Folasade and her associates embezzled funds meant for the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The community is calling for the immediate dissolution of the agency's board and the appointment of Adenibuyan Monday Success, a counselor and special educ...

The Ondo State Eminent Persons group has condemned the celebration of President Tinubu's momentary lapse at a Turkey event, describing it as "insensitive" and "appalling". In a press statement made available to our correspondent, the convener of the group, Mr. Banji Alabi expressed dismay at the "unbridled enthusiasm and outright disrespect" displayed by some individuals celebrating the President's fall. According to him, "The viral videos showing the President falling down are a stark reminder of our shared humanity, not a subject for mockery or ridicule  "We condemn, in the strongest terms possible, the bringing out of a mountain out of a mole hill and the opportunistic politicization of this incident." Alabi urged Nigerians to show restraint, respect, and understanding, emphasizing that a simple fall is not a reflection of a leader's character or fitness for office. "Instead of celebrating, let's pray for his swift re...

A pregnant woman, Mrs. Mary Jesulayomi, has been kidnapped by unknown gunmen in Ayede Community, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State. The incident occurred on Tuesday night, and an eyewitness reported that the woman was taken away around 7:40pm. According to sources, an 85-year-old woman, Mrs. Ogunleye Mese, was also kidnapped but later released, while her 90-year-old husband, Pa Ogunleye Mese, suffered injuries during the incident. Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Police Command in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said that the command had deployed operatives to the community to rescue the victim unhurt. According to him, “Upon receipt of the report, the command has deployed tactical teams to the scene. “Efforts are ongoing towards rescuing the victim and arrest the perpetrators of the crime,” the PPRO disclosed. This incident comes just days after a school proprietress was kidnapped and three others injured in Ilu-Abo, also in Akure North Local Government Ar...

Ekiti-born Tungba Crooner, Fadahun Oluwasiji Abel, popularly known as Abel Praise, is set to feature at this year's Judah Mega Praise event .  The highly-anticipated concert is scheduled to hold on Saturday, January 31st, 2026, at the Liberty Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, Oyo State. Abel Praise, known for his soul-stirring vocals and energetic performances, is one of the exciting lineup of artistes confirmed for the event. His presence is expected to get the crowd singing along with him to praise God The Judah Mega Praise concert hosted by King of Tungba Music, Dr. Yinka Ayefele promises to be an unforgettable night of music, worship, and celebration.  The Liberty Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, is set to come alive with the sounds of Abel Praise and other talented artistes. Mark the date, January 31st, 2026, and get ready to experience a night of spiritual upliftment and entertainment. The countdown begins, and anticipation is building, It's going to be a night to remember! E-Signed...

Mr. Alaba Isijola, a former Head of Service in Ondo State and ex-State President of NULGE, has died.   He served as Special Adviser on Unions matters to former Governor Rotimi Akeredolu.  Isijola, a native of Owo, reportedly passed away on Tuesday night.  Details later Sunshinetruth

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has upgraded the licenses of major FinTech companies and Microfinance Banks, including Opay and Moniepoint, to national status, allowing them to operate across the country following compliance with regulatory requirements. The upgrade applies to key players such as Moniepoint MFB, Opay, Kuda Bank, Palmpay, and Paga, which have grown rapidly through mobile technology and agent networks, effectively outgrowing their previous regional licenses. Director of the Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department, Yemi Solaja, confirmed this development in Lagos at the annual conference of the Committee of Heads of Banks’ Operations, He said: “Institutions like Moniepoint MFB, Opay, Kuda Bank, and others have now been upgraded. In practice, their operations are already nationwide.” Solaja emphasized the importance of physical presence for customer support, noting “Most of their customers operate in the informal sector. They need a clear point of contact if ...

Former Deputy Governor of Ondo State and the Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in the last election, Agboola Ajayi, has rejoined the All Progressives Congress. As reported by PUNCH, Ajayi formally returned to the APC on Tuesday at Apoi Ward 2 in Kiribo, Ese Odo Local Government Area of the state, several years after leaving the party. Speaking at the event, the former deputy governor said his decision was motivated by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the party and support the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election. He explained that his return was also aimed at backing the EASE Agenda of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as well as Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda at the federal level. Ajayi described his move as a reaffirmation of his full membership of the APC, noting that it would enable him to participate actively in the party’s activities and decision-making process. Drawing from global political experiences, he said political disagreement...

The Registrar of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Mr Olugbenga Arajulu, has been honoured for his professional excellence, winning the ‘Akoni Oodua Heritage Education Merit Award 2025’. The award, presented by the Oodua Edu-Essence Magazine, recognises him as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding leadership personalities in education for the year. The ceremony was held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, at the Enuwa (Ile Oodua) Palace of the Ooni of Ife, under the theme: ‘Searching through the Role of Indigenous Knowledge in the Educational Development of Nigeria’. The event was hosted by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. Other dignitaries included the Chairman of the PCRC in Ondo State, Chief Gabriel Ariyo, as Father of the Day; the Olori of Ikare Akoko, Folasade Momoh, as Mother of the Day; and Prof Adeola Falaiye of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, as Guest Speaker. The award was formally presented to Mr Arajulu in his office on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. During the prese...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Two medical experts have highlighted the health risks of excessive phone and social media usage, cautioning that they could lead to mental health challenges. The experts made the remarks in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Tuesday. Dr Oluwagbemi Ibrahim, a Psychiatrist at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, said social media addiction could lead to depression, anxiety from cyberbullying and unhealthy comparison. Ibrahim emphasised that the challenges might eventually lead to suicidal ideations, low self-esteem, poor sleep, reduced attention, memory impairment and poor academic performance. She remarked that excessive phone and social media use, especially among young people, could cause fatigue, headache, burnout, irritability and eye and visual problems. “There are also metabolic risks, as excessive social media usage encourages a sedentary lifestyle, which serves as a risk factor for conditions such a...

A member of Femi Adebayo's family has revealed that his estranged wife, Omotayo Sanusi (Iyan Aladuke), was aware of the circumstances leading to her eviction from a Lagos property. The eviction had sparked controversy on social media, with claims that Adebayo abandoned his former partner. According to Mrs. Taiwo Abdulmalik, a family member, the property was purchased by Adebayo through a bank loan, and the bank initiated foreclosure due to repayment issues. "She knew Femi bought those properties with a loan and that the bank was coming for recovery," Abdulmalik said. Abdulmalik emphasized that Sanusi had prior knowledge of the impending recovery exercise months before the eviction. Despite this, Adebayo reportedly relocated Sanusi, her family, and staff to a short-let apartment, paying the rent in full. The family member's statement contradicts claims that Adebayo acted unfairly, saying the eviction was a result of bank actions, not the actor's decision. Adebayo c...

About 15 million Nigerians aged between 15 and 64 use drugs, nearly three times the global average, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier-General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd.), has revealed. Marwa made the disclosure on Monday during a courtesy visit with his delegation to Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, at the governor’s office in Akure. Presenting comprehensive data on drug use prevalence, enforcement outcomes and cannabis production across the country, with particular emphasis on Ondo State, Marwa cited the 2018 United Nations drug use survey, stating that one in every seven Nigerians in the age bracket consumes drugs, describing the figure as unacceptably high. According to the NDLEA chief, drug use prevalence in Ondo State stands at 17 per cent, translating to roughly 400,000 users. He compared this with 33 per cent in Lagos State, about two million users and 24 per cent in Oyo State. Providing operat...

The Ondo State Coordinator of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk and Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue), has welcomed the former Deputy Governor of the state, His Excellency Hon. Alfred Agboola Ajayi, into the All Progressives Congress (APC). Akinrotoye, in statement personally signed described Ajayi’s defection to the ruling party as a significant boost to the progressive family in Ondo State, noting that the former Deputy Governor would add immense value to the success and growth of the party. “The former Deputy Governor will, no doubt, contribute meaningfully to the continued success of the party,” he said. The former OSOPADEC Commissioner also commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his leadership style, which he said has significantly swelled the ranks of the APC in Ondo State. According to him, Governor Aiyedatiwa’s open-door leadership approach has continued to position the APC and the Ondo State Government as a h...