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A university don, Solomon Obaje, has called for robust investment in foundational geoscientific data and the establishment of a comprehensive national geospatial data bank as a catalyst for Nigeria's sustainable development.  He also urged the government to increase investment in geological data banks within the solid minerals sector, stating that this could boost Nigeria's foreign exchange earnings and strengthen economic growth by improving mineral discoveries and attracting mining investments. Obaje, a Prof. of Geology in the Department of Earth Sciences at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, made these calls on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, while delivering the 60th inaugural lecture of the institution, titled "Not Medicine, But Mission: From Disappointment to Discovery in Geoscience for National Development." The geoscientist underscored Nigeria's vast endowment of mineral resources, noting that the nation's developmental trajectory remains constrained ...

An Abuja-based media professional and communication strategist, Israel Fagbemigun has congratulated the honourable minister of interior, Hon (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO) on the occasion of his 44th birthday . Fagbemigun, an Ikale-born perception manager in a statement released on Friday said as Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo marks his 44th birthday today, it is important to reflect on a tenure that has come to represent purposeful and results-driven governance. According to him, the Ministry of Interior under BTO has witnessed reforms that are both measurable and impacting.  "The intervention that facilitated the release of over 4,000 inmates through the payment of fines speaks to a humane and pragmatic approach to justice. Improvements in fire and emergency response times, alongside the promotion of over 70,000 officers within two years, further demonstrate a commitment to institutional efficiency and workforce motivation. "These are not just figures—they reflect real outcomes. Famili...

Engr. Mebinone Asogbon, an All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirant for Ilaje Constituency II at the Ondo State House of Assembly, says he has withdrawn his aspiration due to a consensus agreement by the party . Asogbon, at a news briefing on Thursday in Igbokoda, said he would support the consensus candidate, Oluwasegun Iwalokun, who was chosen by the party’s state chapter. The former aspirant said Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, held a party stakeholders meeting on Wednesday in Akure to inform all aspirants of the consensus candidates chosen by the party for various posts. According to him, the party is bigger than any politician, while the interest of the party and that of the governor must be respected. “Although, this project has started since two years ago but as a loyal and obedient politician and partyman, I support and align with the interest of the party, as well as that of Mr governor. “I, hereby, step down my aspiration for Ondo State House of Assembly, Ilaje constitue...

Academic activities across Nigerian universities are set to be disrupted as the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities, (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) have commenced a total and comprehensive strike action nationwide . The directive, issued by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of both unions, takes effect from 12:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026, and affects all federal and state universities, as well as inter-university centres across the country. The decision follows a high-level meeting between the union leadership and the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, alongside other key stakeholders in the education sector.  Despite appeals by government representatives for the unions to suspend the planned industrial action, discussions reportedly ended without any concrete resolution. At the heart of the dispute is the prolonged delay in renegotiating the 2009 agreements concerning non-teaching staff unions. The unions had earlier demanded that t...

In a significant boost to orientation camp infrastructure, the Oyo State Government has completed the flooring and tiling of the 4,000 capacity Multipurpose Hall at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Iseyin.  Delivered within a year of the assumption of office of the State Coordinator, Mr. Kayode Ola Peters, the project reflects a renewed drive to improve the camp environment for corps members and officials. The intervention, executed under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, underscores the state’s sustained commitment to youth development and institutional support.  The Governor reaffirmed his resolve to implement more impactful projects within the camp, noting that the welfare of corps members remains a top priority in recognition of their contributions to the state’s socio-economic growth. As a central hub for camp activities, the upgraded hall is set to enhance the quality of lectures, social engagements, and official programmes. The improved facility provides a more co...

The political atmosphere in Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency continues to gather momentum as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate, Pastor Leke Akingboye, paid a strategic visit to the Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Biyi Poroye, in his office yesterday.  The visit, widely seen as a move to consolidate support ahead of the general elections, provided an opportunity for both leaders to reflect on years of political struggle and reaffirm their commitment to the growth of the progressive movement in the constituency. Speaking during the meeting, Prince Poroye commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for recognizing and rewarding loyalty, dedication, and long-standing service to the party. He specifically acknowledged Pastor Akingboye’s unwavering commitment to the progressive cause, tracing his political journey from the days of the Action Congress (AC), through the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and now t...

The BTO4PBAT Support Group on Wednesday brought its ward-to-ward mobilisation tour to a grand finale in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State, drawing party faithful, key stakeholders, and grassroots supporters in a strong show of unity ahead of the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu . The group, convened by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and led by its Director General, Ogbeni Adojutelegan Adesuyi Gideon, used the event to reaffirm its commitment to the ideals of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration. Addressing the gathering, the Director General, Adojutelegan Adesuyi Gideon, urged residents to sustain their unwavering support for President Tinubu.  He stressed the importance of civic responsibility, particularly voter preparedness, encouraging eligible citizens to ensure their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are valid and up to date.  He also called on newly eligible youths, especially thos...

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), is bursting with pride and joy as the National Universities Commission (NUC) grants full accreditation status to twenty of its academic programmes .  This is a resounding testament to the university's unwavering commitment to excellence. In a letter addressed to the university by the Director of Accreditation, Engr. Abraham Chundusu, on behalf of the NUC Executive Secretary, the approved programmes span six faculties. This reflects AAUA's growing academic strength and national recognition. In the Faculty of Administration and Management, three programmes earned full status: Accounting, Banking and Finance, and Public Administration. Over at the Faculty of Arts, success stories include Linguistics and Yoruba, Philosophy, and Yoruba Language. The Faculty of Education recorded nine programmes, the highest. They are Adult Education, Educational Management, Education Biology, Education Mathematics, Education Physics, Education Religi...

By Our Correspondent A respected leader and devoted youth mentor, Mr. Matthew O. T. Ilesanmi, has been honoured with an Award of Honour in Excellent Service by the Boys’ Brigade Nigeria, Akure Battalion Council, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the organization and youth development in Ondo State . The award, presented on April 26, 2026, celebrates Ilesanmi’s years of dedicated service, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the growth and strengthening of the Boys’ Brigade within the Akure Battalion and across the state. Speaking during the presentation, members of the Battalion Council commended Ilesanmi for his tireless efforts in mentoring young boys and instilling in them the core values of discipline, responsibility, and godliness, which the Boys’ Brigade is known for. They noted that his leadership style, marked by humility, integrity, and vision, has significantly contributed to the expansion and effectiveness of the Brigade’s activities in Ondo St...

All preparations have been concluded for Prof. Nnaoma Iwu, a distinguished expert in Comparative Politics, Strategic Studies, and Conflict Resolution at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, to present the institution’s 61st inaugural lecture on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 . The lecture, titled “Killing the ‘gods’ of Ethnicity inhibiting Nigeria’s Journey towards Technological Innovation: Football Theory of Scientific Development to the Rescue,” aims to examine ways of overcoming ethnic divisions to enhance national development and accelerate technological innovation in Nigeria.  The event, which marks another academic milestone at AAUA, will be held in the University Multipurpose Hall at 2pm; guests are urged to be seated by 1.30pm. The lecture promises to generate robust discourse among scholars, policymakers, and students alike. In a statement, the Deputy Vice Chancellor and Chairman of Ceremonies, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, affirmed that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga ...

A 20-year-old student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ondo State, Audi Emmanuel, has reportedly died after allegedly taking his own life. The deceased, said to be a Computer Engineering student of the institution, was reportedly found hanging in his residence. Sources in the area said the incident occurred along Awolowo Road, Emure-Ile, Owo, near the Amotekun Corps office, sparking shock among residents. Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh said: “The Ondo State Police Command confirms the report of a suspected suicide incident at Emure-Ile involving a 20-year-old student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, who was found dead in his residence. “Police operatives promptly visited the scene, where the body was recovered and deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy. Preliminary observations suggest a case of suicide; however, a thorough investigation is ongoing to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the incident. “Th...

A 32-year old Beninese fashion designer, identified simply as Jacob Joseph, has been accused of defiling his 16-year old apprentice after allegedly forcing her to consume cups of strong alcoholic drinks. Joseph, a father of four, allegedly committed the act around 11pm, on Monday, April 22, 2026, at his shop located within the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Shopping Complex, around the Mother and Child Hospital area in Akure, Ondo State. The HOPE METRO gathered that the victim, whose identity has been withheld, was a new apprentice in the shop. She was reportedly instructed by her master to return after closing hours for what he described as compulsory night duty. The victim was said to have woken up to discover that she was alone in the shop and bleeding from her private part, after the suspect allegedly took advantage of her condition, overpowered her, and sexually assaulted her. The incident was said to have left the victim with emotional trauma and physical injuries. Narrating her or...

Youths and students across Ondo North Senatorial District have held a massive solidarity walk in support of the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, PhD, ahead of the 2027 general elections.   The walk drew thousands of participants from tertiary institutions, youth groups, and community associations across the six local government areas of the district.  Organizers said it was designed to mobilize grassroots support and reaffirm confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu and Senator Ipinsagba. Addressing participants during the walk, representatives of the Ondo North Youths and Students Coalition commended Senator Ipinsagba for prioritizing youth development, describing him as “a Senator who walks his talk.” They pledged to mobilize aggressively for the re-election of President Tinubu and Senator Ipinsagba in 2027. Speaking at the event, Senator Ipinsagba expressed gratitude for the overwhelming show of support from young people...

Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has urged members of the 2026 Batch A Stream II posted to the state including those redeployed from Lagos to approach their national service with sincerity, courage, and optimism, as he officially declared the orientation course open. The governor gave the charge during the swearing-in ceremony held at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, where a strong sense of patriotism and commitment marked the beginning of a new service year. Represented by the Director of Youth in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Alhaja Kuburat O. Mustapha, Makinde welcomed the Corps Members to Oyo State, describing it as the Pacesetter State known for its hospitality, rich history, and vibrant cultural heritage. He congratulated the graduates on completing their academic programmes, noting that their mobilisation into the National Youth Service Corps signals a transition into greater responsibility, leadership, and service to the nation. Makinde also emp...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  A Public Health Physician, Dr Ifeoluwa Odedina, says Nigeria’s 2030 malaria elimination target may be unrealistic as cases and deaths have slightly increased . Odedina, Senior Registrar, Department of Community Medicine, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, made the remark on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), in Ibadan. He spoke ahead of the 2026 World Malaria Day, themed “Driven to End Malaria: Now We Can, Now We Must”. Odedina said according to WHO’s World Malaria Report, Nigeria recorded about 68,136,000 cases and 184,600 deaths in 2023. He added that in 2024, the country had an estimated 68,466,000 cases and about 184,800 deaths. “Figures for 2025 are not yet available,” he said. Odedina, also an Epidemiologist, noted that the data showed a slight increase in both cases and deaths. “The 2030 elimination target seeks to reduce malaria incidence by at least 90 per cent from the levels in 2015 by the year 2030. “...

  The Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has charged corps members to embrace purposeful service as the National Youth Service Corps held the swearing-in ceremony for the 2026 Batch 'A' Stream II at the Permanent Orientation Camp in Ikare-Akoko. The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Omoyofunmi Segun Henry, described the service year as a defining phase that requires commitment, discipline and a strong sense of duty. He noted that the NYSC remains a vital platform for promoting national unity and meaningful development. He urged the corps members to make positive impact in their host communities by understanding local needs and contributing practical solutions that will create lasting value. The Governor assured them of their safety, stating that Ondo State remains peaceful through effective collaboration with security agencies. He also encouraged them to take the Skill Acquisition and Entrepren...

Every administration with a strong record of transformation, economic growth, infrastructural development, and progress deserves another term to implement additional policies. This was the assertion of Thalis  Olonite Apalowo, Director General of the Ondo Youth Alliance for Tinubu, during Day 2 of the local government tour across Odigbo and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo Local Government Areas. The tour train arrived in Odigbo and Ile-Oluji/Okeigbo with the aim of creating awareness and sensitizing youths across the state on the impact of the economic policies of Bola Tinubu, as well as the importance of his re-election. The event brought together political, traditional, and religious leaders, youths, and other dignitaries from various walks of life. It also served as a platform to promote inclusiveness and bring government closer to the grassroots. In his remarks, Thalis Olonite Apalowo  welcomed party leaders and members, commending their commitment to the party and the group. He emphasi...

 A High Court in Lokoja has awarded N1billion in damages against Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, in a defamation suit filed by former Kogi governor, Yahaya Bello. The order is contained in the Certified True Copy of the judgement, dated April 23 on Friday in Lokoja. The court held that based on the preponderance of evidence or balance of probabilities, judgment was entered in favour of the claimant. Justice Justice A. S. Ibrahim, while delivering his judgement in the suit marked, “HCL/16/2023”, held that upon the conclusion of the suit, the two issues formulated for determination were resolved in favour of the claimant. “The interview granted by the defendant on 4/11/2022 on Arise TV programme of ‘The Morning Show’ is defamatory to the claimant’s character and reputation. “The said interview of 4/11/2022 in which the defendant described the claimant as a murderer, killer, perpetrator of evil acts, and a terror to the people of Kogi State was without justification.” The court also gav...

Popular Nollywood actor Richard Oguntimehin, widely known as Don Richard, has debunked widespread rumours of his death, assuring fans and colleagues that he is alive and in good health. The actor addressed the speculation in a statement on his social media platforms, describing the reports as false and misleading.  He emphasized that there was no truth to the claims circulating online, urging the public to disregard the rumour. Expressing gratitude, Don Richard reflected on the support he received during difficult moments, noting that he would never forget those who stood by him.  “I will never forget the people who came with a lamp when I was in the dark, not to fix me, but to sit with me until I could see again,” he said. He further reassured his fans of his well-being, declaring, “I am alive. Nothing do the son of God. God is at work,” a statement that has since drawn reactions from followers who expressed relief and joy over the clarification.

  A renowned geologist, Professor Solomon Obaje, will deliver the 60th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), on Tuesday, April 28, 2026.  The lecture, which marks a significant milestone in the university’s academic calendar, is expected to draw scholars, students, and dignitaries from across the country.   Titled “Not Medicine, But Mission: From Disappointment to Discovery in Geoscience for National Development”, the lecture will take place at the University’s Multipurpose Hall. It is scheduled to begin at precisely 2 pm, and guests are expected to be seated by 1:30 pm. The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration) and Chairman of the Ceremonies Committee, Prof. Adebisi Daramola, confirmed in a statement that the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will preside over the event.   Prof. Obaje began his academic journey in 1988, when he earned a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Geology from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. He obta...

By Our Correspondent  Leaders and stakeholders of Ifedore Local Council Development Area (LCDA) have endorsed Hon. Samuel Ajayi as an aspirant for the Idanre/Ifedore Federal Constituency. The endorsement was made during a strategic meeting held on Thursday, where members of the council expressed confidence in the aspirant’s leadership capacity, experience, and commitment to delivering quality representation to the people of the constituency. Speaking at the meeting, participants described Hon. Ajayi as a grassroots politician with a clear vision for development, empowerment, and inclusive governance. They noted that their decision to support his aspiration was based on his track record of service, accessibility to the people, and readiness to champion the interests of Idanre/Ifedore at the national level. The stakeholders further called on residents and party faithful across the constituency to rally behind the aspirant in order to ensure victory at the polls. Responding to t...

Tension is mounting at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) as staff unions have strongly rejected what they describe as a purported suspension of union activities and their duly elected executives by the Ondo State Government. In a strongly worded rejoinder issued to staff and stakeholders and made available to Newsline NG,  the workforce of the institution condemned the alleged move, describing it as unlawful, undemocratic, and a violation of workers’ fundamental rights.  The unions maintained that the action was reportedly taken in response to their ongoing agitation for the implementation of the newly approved national minimum wage. The statement emphasized that trade unions are legally recognized entities under the Trade Unions Act, noting that their existence, operations, and leadership are protected by law.  According to the unions, no state authority has the unilateral power to suspend union activities or dissolve elected executives without due legal process, stress...

A renowned professor of Development Economics, Adebayo Fatukasi, has argued that government policies aimed at poverty eradication will continue to fail without the inclusion of, and input from, indigenous development economists . He therefore advocated closer collaboration between the government and development economists to ensure the success of targeted, transformative strategies that would reduce the country’s rising poverty rate. He also appealed to the government to invest in the simultaneous development of all regions and states in Nigeria. According to him, the current rate of development in the South-West, South-East and South-South is incomparable to that of the northern regions, which are far behind in terms of development. Prof.  Fatukasi stated this on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, while presenting the 59th inaugural lecture of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, titled: “Reducing Poverty in Our Land: Divine Mandate of a Development Economist!” He acknowledged...

Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday intensified calls for unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC), urging aspirants and stakeholders to embrace consensus and avoid internal rivalries capable of weakening the party. The Governor, who spoke at the Northern Senatorial District stakeholders’ meeting held in Owo, said while ambition is legitimate in politics, it must not override collective interest. “It is good to aspire for a position, very good. But the position you are vying for, you are not the only one. There are other people also showing interest. That office is for one person at a time,” he said. The Governor explained that the APC allows both consensus arrangement and direct primaries in candidate selection, noting that consensus would be prioritised where agreement is achievable among stakeholders. “A consensus is preferred, but where it cannot be achieved, we go for direct primaries. We will engage our stakeholders, the leadership and the aspi...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   An Ibadan-based legal practitioner, Mr Oluwatobi Fatoki, has emphasised that the Cybercrime Act can threaten free press and democracy if not well managed. Fatoki, the former spokesperson of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ibadan Branch, made the assertion in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Wednesday. He said using the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc.) Act 2015, though amended in 2024, to silence journalists, raises a whole lot of dust and eyebrows. He added that, in some cases, the law has been used to suppress the voices of the masses, especially those of media practitioners. According to the lawyer, journalists are tasked with ensuring government accountability under Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution. He emphasised that the right to freedom of expression, as guaranteed by Section 39 of the Constitution, does not, however, cover libel, slander, or sedition. “Despite Sections 39 and 22, journalists face ...