The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said women who wear makeup do not believe God did a perfect job on them.
Adeboye spoke on Saturday during the RCCG ministers’ conference held at the Redemption City, Mowe, Ogun State, as part of activities lined up for the church’s just-concluded 72nd annual convention.
Adeboye said God did a great job when God created humans, stating that women wearing make-up are expressing their disbelief in God who created them.
He said, “When you marry, you cut your coat according to your clothes. Some of you want to be like the people of the world. I can’t even imagine some of the things I see now. It wasn’t so in the beginning.
“People spend hundreds of thousands of naira on ‘shoot out’ (photo shoot). And then, on the day of the wedding, the girl put on all manner of decorations. Those who do make-up are those who do not believe God did a good job.
“When God created you, He did a great job, you are wonderful, perfectly made, and you cannot find any other fellow like you. You are special.
“When you begin to paint, and you think you can improve on what God has already done, you are a fool. You can never improve on what God has done.”
The Federal Government has vowed to end open defecation by 2030, saying over 45 million Nigerians still engage in the practice, as only about 25 per cent of the population has access to safely managed sanitation facilities.
The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, disclosed this at a press briefing to commemorate the 2025 World Toilet Day, with the theme“Sanitation in a Changing World,” with the tagline “We’ll Always Need the Toilet.”
Lawal, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary at the ministry, Mahmud Kambari, noted that this year’s theme reflected the growing impacts of climate change, rapid urbanisation, and widening inequalities that weaken sanitation systems.
The United Nations General Assembly, in recognition of the global sanitation challenge, declared 19th November every year as World Toilet Day.
The declaration is to raise awareness and inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis, which still affects billions of people worldwide.
The day also supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal Six – clean water and sanitation for all.
The minister said, “The advent and access to toilets remain a foundation to public health and play an important role in protecting both people and the environment.
“They hygienically remove human waste, reduce exposure to diseases, and uphold dignity.
“Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, toilets and the systems that support them remain underfunded, poorly managed, or neglected.
“Currently, about 4.2 billion people globally live without access to safe toilets, while in Nigeria, over 45 million people still practice open defecation, and only about 25 per cent of the population have access to safely managed sanitation facilities.”
He lamented that many schools, healthcare facilities, and public institutions either lacked functional toilets or had facilities that were poorly managed.
“In urban areas, the absence of adequate sewerage systems has led to unsafe disposal of wastewater and sewage into rivers and streams, thereby contaminating our environment with resultant impact,” he added.
The minister said the situation contributed significantly to diseases such as cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid, and intestinal worm infections, which continued to claim lives, especially among children under five years of age.
He, however, noted that the Federal Government was committed to tackling sanitation challenges and achieving an Open Defecation Free Nigeria by 2030.
This commitment, he said, was demonstrated through the Presidential Declaration of a State of Emergency on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, and the signing of Executive Order No. 009 (2019) titled: ‘The Open Defecation Free Nigeria by 2025, which is under review and Other Related Matters’
He added that the ministry and other stakeholders had reviewed and updated the 2005 National Environmental Sanitation Policy, including guidelines for safe excreta and sewage disposal.
The Director of Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Dr Bahijjahtu Abubakar, noted that billions still lacked access to safe toilets and millions continued to practice open defecation.
She warned that this posed serious health and environmental risks, especially to women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
“Today’s commemoration provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the progress made so far in improving sanitation services across Nigeria, while also renewing our collective commitment to ending open defecation by the year 2030,” she emphasised.
The Secretary General of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Abubakar Kende, highlighted sanitation as a vital human right and stressed the urgent need to address challenges such as climate stress, poor funding, overcrowded urban areas, and cultural barriers.
In a related development, the Oyo State government, through the State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund, Lagos Field Office, and SATO, a brand under LIXIL, has called on stakeholders to prioritise safe sanitation as a critical tool for disease prevention and environmental protection.
The Chairman of OYORUWASSA, Alhaji Babalola Afobaje, stated this on Wednesday, during the 2025 World Toilet Day celebration held at the Local Government Staff Training School Conference Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan.
Afobaje underscored the enduring importance of safe, functional, and dignified sanitation systems in all communities.
According to him, “toilets are not just facilities but life-saving infrastructure essential for public health, environmental protection, climate resilience, and human dignity.”
He commended existing partnerships, particularly with UNICEF, for progress in driving the Open Defecation Free campaign across Oyo State.
He, however, stressed the need for intensified efforts to deliver climate-resilient sanitation systems, aimed at achieving a total end to open defecation by 2028.
The General Manager of OYORUWASSA, Mr Adeniyi Adeduntan, affirmed that access to safe toilets remains a constant necessity, regardless of technological or societal changes.
He noted that women and girls were disproportionately affected through heightened risks of abuse, poor health outcomes, and school absenteeism due to the absence of safe and hygienic toilets.
In a keynote presentation, the co-founder of Recycledge and Partnership Lead of the Young Water Professionals (International Water Association), Mr Victor Oyejide, called for continuous education and awareness on dignified sanitation.
He outlined challenges faced by vulnerable groups, especially women, girls, and young people who lack access to clean and comfortable toilet facilities.
Oyejide noted that many schoolgirls missed classes during their menstrual periods due to inadequate WASH facilities, urging greater government and private sector investment in innovative sanitation solutions, including mobile and static toilet systems.
First Bank of Nigeria Limited (FirstBank) said it has identified poor funding as one of the biggest challenges facing micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the country.
Head of SME Banking at FirstBank, Abiodun Famuyiwa, stated that the need to bridge the funding gap for MSMEs and support growth in the sector prompted the bank to lend over N200 billion to the sub-sector in 2024.
Speaking at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) 2025 National MSMES Conference held in Lagos, Famuyiwa said: “One of the major problems MSMEs are confronted with, as we all know, is funding.
“We can’t shy away from it because they need money to be able to run their operations. And in this area, FirstBank has come in handy.”
The conference with ‘Grow Nigeria: Building a Future of Innovation, Resilience and Prosperity’ as the theme also focused on businesses, finance, technology and the creative economy.
Famuyiwa said: “I can tell you confidently that last year, we disbursed about N100 billion to businesses across diverse markets alone. Petty traders also got about N70 billion, not to mention businesses in other areas.”
Overall, FirstBank disbursed over 200 billion to small businesses in one year.
Describing the feat as remarkable, he said, “So, we are wholeheartedly supporting them, and these funds are mainly given to them without any collateral at all. We just look at the way they do their businesses and determine what they can actually afford.”
He further said that part of what the bank does is to look at the risk criteria of each SME to avoid lending beyond capacity.
Famuyiwa said FirstBank has been directly involved in ensuring that SMEs move to the next level.
“We’ve organised different webinars, seminars for SMEs on how they can scale their businesses because growing businesses is not just about money alone. When the money is given to you, what do you do with it? How do you use that money effectively to be able to expand your business?”
Labour Party (LP)’s supporters gather during a campaign rally at Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria, on November 23, 2022, ahead of the 2023 Nigerian presidential election. (Photo by PIUS UTOMI EKPEI / AFP)
Ahead of the 2027 general election, the Labour Party (LP) has vowed to unseat President Bola Tinubu’s APC-led administration.
The party cited the present administration’s alleged imposition of hardship and insecurity on Nigerians.
Speaking against the backdrop of hardship and insecurity in the country in Abeokuta yesterday, the Deputy National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Dr Ayo Olorunfemi, disclosed that the party is now one indivisible family, and anyone making statements to the contrary was merely creating noise that would not affect the party’s focus as the 2027 election approaches.
Olorunfemi urged Nigerian workers to join the party and help rescue the country from the APC’s “clueless” government.
He stated that workers have the constitutional right to belong to any political party and can hold executive roles, provided they resign or apply for leave of absence to contest for elective office.
The party also announced appointments, including Comrade Abayomi Arabambi as acting Vice Chairman for the Southwest and Lamidi Apapa as a member of the party’s Board of Trustees.
The party Deputy National Chairman said he was in the state to sensitise party members on the forthcoming ward, local, and state congresses, scheduled for December.
He explained that the opposition party is now under one umbrella led by Julius Abure and that, in the spirit of ongoing reconciliation, its former factional chairman, Lamidi Apapa, has been appointed a member of the party’s Board of Trustees.
Similarly, the party’s former National Publicity Secretary, Abayomi Arabambi, has been appointed acting Vice Chairman for the Southwest, pending ratification at the forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.
He further stressed that the party will begin the journey to restrategise and strengthen itself for the 2027 election, and that Nigerian workers should join the opposition to address the hardships imposed by the APC-led government.
The constitution allows freedom of association with any political party or trade union. A recent Supreme Court judgment also affirmed that civil servants cannot be prohibited from joining political parties of their choice.
“There is no provision barring civil servants from party membership. They can even hold party positions, but to contest elective offices, they must apply for leave of absence or resign.
“The Supreme Court has made it clear that courts should not entertain disputes over party leadership. Julius Abure and his team were duly elected to the NWC, and no court has invalidated the convention. That convention is sacrosanct under the law, as affirmed by the Supreme Court.”
Also speaking at the event, Abayomi Arabambi commended the party for the new appointments and pledged to work diligently to make Labour Party the party to beat in Ogun State in 2027.
He described Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration as incompetent and promised that an LP government would be transparent, responsible, and prioritise citizens’ interests.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North, has called for a political solution to the ongoing legal issues involving the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Kalu made the appeal while reacting to Kanu’s recent conviction by the Federal High Court in Abuja on terrorism-related charges. He said he has consistently engaged the Federal Government on ways to resolve the matter.
“The problem of Nnamdi Kanu is what we need to solve through a political process,” the senator said during an interview on Politics Today. “I have been working with the Federal Government of Nigeria on how to solve this issue, and nobody should question the decision of Justice Omotosho.”
He noted that while Kanu’s legal team would head to the Court of Appeal to challenge the judgment, he plans to meet with the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, to advise the President on the matter.
Kalu lamented the loss of lives and livelihoods in the South-East, attributing the situation to the activities of IPOB. According to him, dozens of Igbo people have been killed and many businesses destroyed over the years.
The senator also recalled his efforts in 2017 to secure Kanu’s temporary release. He said he mounted significant pressure on former President Muhammadu Buhari, with support from Mamman Daura and then Attorney General Abubakar Malami.
“I know the pressure I personally put on President Buhari before he was released in April 2017,” Kalu said.
Kanu’s case has been in court since 2015. Last Thursday, Justice James Omotosho sentenced him to life imprisonment on four counts of terrorism, including counts one, four, five, and six. He also imposed 20 years imprisonment on Count Three and five years on Count Seven, with all sentences set to run concurrently.
The judge held that the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and that evidence showed Kanu ordered the sit-at-home directives in the South-East. He added that Kanu’s broadcasts constituted acts of terrorism.
Aloy Ejimakor, a consultant to the IPOB leader, has vowed to challenge the life sentence.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s determination to tackle insecurity across the country, assuring Nigerians that he will not relent until every citizen is protected.
In a statement released on Sunday via his official X handle, the President emphasized that all Nigerians, regardless of location, deserve safety and security.
“Let me be clear: I will not relent. Every Nigerian, in every state, has the right to safety — and under my watch, we will secure this nation and protect our people,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that he cancelled his planned trip to the Group of 20 Summit scheduled for November 22 and 23 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in South Africa. He explained that Vice President Kashim Shettima was delegated to represent the country so he could focus on coordinating security efforts at home, particularly the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and worshippers kidnapped in Kwara State.
Providing an update, Tinubu confirmed the release of all 38 worshippers abducted from the Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, Kwara State. He also announced that 51 of the more than 300 schoolchildren abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State had regained their freedom.
He commended the security agencies for what he described as swift and coordinated efforts that led to the rescue of the victims, adding that he continues to receive regular updates on security operations nationwide.
“You will recall that I cancelled my trip to the G20 summit in South Africa to enable me coordinate the security efforts at home. Thanks to the efforts of our security forces over the last few days, all the 38 worshippers abducted in Eruku, Kwara State have been rescued. I am equally happy that 51 out of the missing students of the Catholic School in Niger State have been recovered,” the President said.
Earlier, Tinubu had instructed security agencies to intensify search-and-rescue operations and bolster preventive deployments in affected areas. Last Thursday, he directed the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to relocate to Kebbi State to oversee operations aimed at rescuing the abducted schoolgirls.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in the fight against insecurity.
Ogun Govt Should Prevent Outsiders’ Influence In Choosing Next Awujale — Okuwa
…calls for Ifa Oracle to Guide Selection
As the process to select the next Awujale of Ijebuland gathers momentum, a curator and former legislator, Professor Bankole Okuwa, has urged the Ogun State Government to prevent undue external influence and ensure that only candidates from the authorised royal lineage are considered.
Okuwa, a former member of the Ogun State House of Assembly during the administration of Chief Bisi Onabanjo, made the appeal on Thursday during an interactive session with journalists at his residence in Ijebu-Ode.
The academic, who relocated to the United States for his teaching career and served with the U.S. Department of Defense at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, before retiring in 2011, now serves as Curator of the Oba Adesimbo Tunwase Museum in Ijebu-Ode.
He described it as an “insult” for anyone to attempt to buy his way onto the revered stool of the Awujale.
Okuwa cautioned kingmakers against compromising the integrity of the selection process, insisting that the Ifa oracle should guide the choice of the rightful candidate.
According to him, some individuals who have long been absent from family affairs are suddenly identifying themselves as members of the Fusengbuwa ruling house following the passing of the immediate past Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
He emphasised that the Fusengbuwa ruling house must present a candidate chosen through the Ifa oracle, saying the sacred throne demands adherence to tradition, transparency and integrity.
“I know the Fusengbuwa family very well meetings used to hold at Agbusebi Quarters and I expect them to present the best candidate. I have noticed that some people who have not attended meetings for years have suddenly appeared. Nevertheless, the family must do what is right for the community.”
Okuwa stressed that the Awujale stool has historically produced men of strong character and maintained confidence that the Fusengbuwa lineage would uphold that legacy.
He warned against any attempt by outsiders to influence the selection, noting rumours that political actors may try to impose a candidate.
“Our governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is a competent man. I believe he will act in the best interest of the Ijebu people. But anyone seeking the throne must first present himself properly to his family. No one can impose himself on us.”
Okuwa condemned reports of financial inducements and gift distribution allegedly aimed at swaying decision-makers, calling such practices ‘unacceptable.’
“The Awujale stool cannot be bought. It would be an insult to all Ijebus. Those working elsewhere should return home and present themselves formally instead of using political connections from outside.”
Speaking on the importance of tradition, Okuwa referenced the selection of the current Ooni of Ife, noting that the process was guided by the Ifa oracle. He urged that the same standard be maintained in Ijebuland.
“We still rely on the Ifa oracle as a guiding tradition. It has helped our people for centuries. The family should consult the oracle to narrow the field before presenting candidates to the Afobajes.”
On the question of age, Okuwa recommended a range of 45 to 60 years for prospective candidates, noting that Oba Adetona himself ascended the throne at age 26 without difficulty.
“With as many as 48 people reported to have collected forms, the question is how to identify the best among them. Age between 45 and 60 is ideal. Beyond 60 raises other considerations.”
He appealed to all stakeholders, families, kingmakers and government to protect the sanctity of the selection process.
Several prominent Nigerian celebrities have taken to social media to condemn the recent attacks in Kwara and Kebbi states, calling on the government to urgently address the rising insecurity.
Their reactions follow reports of a terrorist attack on a church in Eruku, a boundary town in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State. The Kwara State Police Command confirmed on Tuesday that suspected bandits killed at least two people and injured one during the attack. A parish of the Christ Apostolic Church was invaded during a service, with a livestream video of the incident circulating online.
Tension was further heightened by the pre-dawn attack on Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko-Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where 25 students were abducted and a staff member was killed.
Reacting on X on Wednesday, comedian and actor Ayo Makun (AY) expressed frustration over the worsening security situation. He wrote: “Nigeria is turning into a crime scene. Bandits storm churches to kill and abduct Christians. Children are kidnapped from schools. A Brigadier General is shot dead. Every day brings fresh chaos. How did we get here? We need safety, accountability and real action, not silence.”
Rapper and actor Folarin Falana (Falz) also demanded swift intervention from President Bola Tinubu, asking: “How many more people have to be kidnapped and murdered in cold blood?”
Skit maker Debo Adedayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, lamented the repeated incidents of violence, stressing that insecurity affects all Nigerians regardless of region. “These terrorist attacks concern all of us… We cannot keep quiet while Nigerians are being slaughtered in different parts of the country,” he wrote on Wednesday. He also criticised the President for not addressing the nation, saying schoolchildren and security agents had been murdered “in cold blood.”
Actress Funke Akindele expressed distress after watching the livestream of the Kwara church attack. “I wept seeing that old woman who couldn’t walk well running for safety. They are harmless citizens… I’m so weak,” she wrote.
Social media influencer Enioluwa Adeoluwa said the livestream showed how vulnerable everyone is. “That livestream put it into reality for so many of us. The reality is that it can happen to anyone,” he said.
Actress Kate Henshaw blamed the crisis on leadership failure, stating: “There is everything wrong with those saddled with the responsibility of leading and making sure lives and property are safe.”
Medical doctor and influencer Chinonso Egemba, known as Aproko Doctor, described the situation as a failure of governance. “This is terrorism, and it cannot continue… NigeriaGov, protect your citizens. We have a right to live!” he wrote.
OGUN NUJ CELEBRATES AARE LAI LABODE ON HIS INSTALLATION AS AARE ONA KAKANFO OF EGBALAND
The Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) congratulates Aare Lai Labode, PhD, on his formal installation as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Egbaland, a revered traditional title that symbolizes courage, service, and unwavering commitment to cultural preservation.
Aare Labode’s installation is a well-deserved honour, his longstanding contributions to media development, youth empowerment, community advancement, and the promotion of Egba heritage both locally and globally can not be overemphasized .
Aare Lai Labodes elevation reflects exceptional leadership, integrity, and the respect he commands within and outside the media space.
His new role further reinforces his status as a custodian of tradition and a driver of progressive leadership.
The installation of Aare Lai Labode as the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Egbaland is a significant moment not only for Egbaland but for the journalism community in Ogun State.
His dedication to cultural enrichment, public service, and purposeful leadership continues to distinguish him as a man of honour.
We celebrate this remarkable milestone and pray for wisdom, strength, and divine guidance as he assumes this historic responsibility.
The Council also commend His Majesty, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, for preserving cultural values and honouring deserving individuals who contribute meaningfully to society.
E – Signed:
Comrade Wale Olanrewaju Chairman, Ogun State Council, NUJ
Comrade Bunmi Adigun Secretary, Ogun State Council, NUJ
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called on the Federal Government to respect university autonomy and stop implementing policies that undermine academic freedom.
In a statement issued in Calabar, the ASUU Zonal Coordinator for the Calabar Zone, Comrade Ikechukwu Igwenyi, alleged that various government-imposed policies have disrupted smooth academic operations.
He demanded the immediate release of the union’s three and a half months’ outstanding salaries, payment of all withheld salaries, refund of all third-party deductions, and settlement of all promotion arrears.
ASUU also called for the payment of the outstanding 25–35% wage award with consequential adjustments, increased budgetary allocation to education, and sustainable funding for Nigerian universities.
“We demand the completion of renegotiation and full implementation of agreements with timelines, as well as fair remuneration and improved work conditions for academic staff to curb the exodus of talent,” the statement read.
Igwenyi, alongside nine other union leaders, noted that the Federal Government had been given a four-week ultimatum to address the issues. They warned that ASUU would not hesitate to embark on industrial action if the demands remained unmet.
“We shall remain unbowed in our resolve on embarking on industrial action, unbroken, and unwavering in this just struggle if our demands are not met,” they added.
The union maintained that education is a right for all citizens and stressed that it is the government’s responsibility to demonstrate the political will to adequately fund the sector.
Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun East Independent Chapel, on Sunday joined family, friends, associates, and eminent Nigerians to celebrate the 70th birthday of the President of the Africa Regional Council of Women, Dr. Gloria Laraba Shoda.
Led by the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, the Vice Chairman, Charles Segun Adegbite, the Secretary, Mrs. Funmi Adewoju Suleodu, Comrade Johnson Dairo, and Mr. Dauworth Kayode Fathai, the team gave the chapel a strong representation at the colourful celebration held at The Innova Place, Obafemi Awolowo Avenue, GRA Quarters, Sagamu.
Dr. Shoda, who is also the matron of the NUJ Ogun East Chapel, turned 70 on Sunday, November 16, 2025. The platinum jubilee celebration—already described as the talk of the town—attracted numerous groups and distinguished personalities across Nigeria, with strictly limited invitations issued to selected representatives.
Among the dignitaries present were the former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola; former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Senator Gbenga Daniel; former Senator Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello; and Chief (Mrs.) Bola Obasanjo, wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Also in attendance were notable lawmakers including Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka and Hon. Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, who represents the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency. Wives of former governors and other political heavyweights were also present.
Royal fathers who graced the event included the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, HRM Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi; the Elepe of Epeland, HRH Oba Adewale Ajayi; and several other traditional rulers.
Captains of industry, members of various Chambers of Commerce where Dr. Shoda previously served—including as Ogun State Chairman—leaders of academic institutions where she once chaired governing councils, professional bodies, trade unions, women’s groups, and grassroots associations also honoured her.
The ceremony, anchored by renowned broadcaster Mr. Yemi Sodimu, featured thrilling performances from Apala music maestro, Musiliu Aruna Ishola. The event commenced shortly after the church service, under tight yet courteous security arrangements that ensured a smooth and successful celebration.
Born in Kowa, Kaduna State, in 1955, Dr. Shoda is a woman of exceptional versatility. Married to a retired military officer and former Military Assistant to the late General Oladipo Diya, she built a distinguished career in business, education, advocacy, and community development.
She rose from serving as President of the Remo Chamber of Commerce, Mines and Agriculture (RECCIMA) to becoming President of the Ogun Council of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OGCCIMA). She later became the first female Chairman of the Governing Council of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, where she made impactful contributions to technical and vocational education in Ogun State.
Her passion for learning also led to the establishment of Great Scholars International School, Sagamu.
Nationally, Dr. Shoda played pivotal roles in the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS), Nigeria’s foremost women’s organization. She served as National Vice President (2012–2016) and later as National President (2016–2022), a period widely regarded as one of the most transformative in the council’s history.
Her administration championed women’s economic empowerment, widows’ welfare, girl-child education, maternal health, political inclusion of women, youth mentorship, and community development. Under her leadership, NCWS supported thousands of widows, empowered small-scale women entrepreneurs, and funded WAEC fees for indigent students nationwide.
Dr. Shoda’s influence expanded to the continental and global stage when she was elected President of the Africa Regional Council of Women (ARCW) and became the first and only Black African woman elected to the Board of the International Council of Women (ICW), France. She was overwhelmingly re-elected to the ICW Board in 2025 with over 90% support.
In 2021, she founded the African League of Women Voters (ALWOV), which she continues to lead as President & Founder.
Her work at ICW has amplified African women’s voices in global policy discussions, particularly in gender rights, peace-building, and sustainable development.
Dr. Shoda has received numerous awards locally and internationally. Her chieftaincy titles include: Erelu of Yoruba in the FCT (Abuja), Yeye Moye of Remoland, Yeye Apesin of Iperu-Remo, and Iyalode of Ibogun Kingdom, among others. She was conferred with the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022.
At the global level, she has received several distinguished recognitions including the African Women Leadership Award, ECOWAS International Leadership Award, Pan-African Servant Leadership Award, Ambassador of Peace, and African Women Leader (World Peace Programme, 2024).
Dr. Shoda became the Patroness of the NUJ Ogun East Independent Chapel about a year ago and was formally invested during the Chapel’s inauguration ceremony in Ijebu-Ode in December 2024.
Alumni Impact: MAHSOSA 06’ Set Unveils Modern Toilet Complex for Students
The Makun High School Old Students Association (MAHSOSA) 2006 Set under the chairmanship of Comrade Bashiru Hammed Adewale (Honourable Prince Lahbash) has in a landmark contribution to educational infrastructure and student welfare, commissioned a modern public toilet facility for the Junior School section of Makun High School, Sagamu.
The project—spearheaded by the 2006 Set Chairman, Comrade Bashiru Hammed Adewale, popularly known as Honourable Prince Lahbash—was formally unveiled during a ceremony attended by school authorities, alumni leaders, and community stakeholders.
Speaking at the commissioning, the National President of MAHSOSA, CSP Ibrahim Babatunde Mojeed, described the initiative as a meaningful investment in the future of the school. He noted that the gesture reflects the enduring bond between the alumni and the institution that shaped their formative years.
“This project represents our shared legacy,” Lahbash said. “It is an expression of gratitude and a commitment to uplifting the learning environment for current and future students.”
The Principal of Makun High School (Junior), Mr. Olusegun Oyewusi, praised the 2006 Set for their vision and generosity. He said the new facility will significantly strengthen hygiene, safety and overall learning conditions within the school.
“This modern facility reaffirms our belief that every learner and visitor deserves a clean, secure and dignified environment,” he remarked. He urged users to maintain the toilets responsibly, adding, “Those who give shall never lack; may the donors continue to flourish.”
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Makun High School, Mr. Sunday Oyeyemi, commended the 2006 Set for their well-coordinated effort and urged other alumni groups to work closely with the national body when proposing similar projects to ensure alignment with the school’s development plans.
“The Class of 2006 has acted with foresight and brought honour to the school,” he noted.
In his address, Comrade Bashiru Hammed expressed appreciation to the Ogun State Government, through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, for approving the project. He also thanked members of the 2006 Set for their unwavering support from the planning stage to completion.
He reiterated that the project reflects the Set’s commitment to giving back to their community and strengthening the school’s infrastructure.
“Our goal is to leave a lasting impact—one that enhances student wellbeing and reinforces the values we were taught here,” he said.
The newly commissioned ultra-modern toilet facility is expected to improve hygiene standards, reduce open defecation, and enhance the overall school experience for hundreds of students.
Ijebu-Ode was agog on Sunday as Nigerian celebrities and dignitaries flocked to the much-anticipated annual Ijebu Rewa Cultural Festival, held at the Ijebu-Ode Local Government Secretariat, Itoro, Ogun State.
Among the high-profile celebrities were Basorun (Dr.) Femi Branch, President of the Ijebu Pride Network; Mrs. Toyosi Adesanya, Secretary of the Ijebu Pride Network; and Atinuke Kazeem, popularly known as Mama ‘No Network’ in the entertainment industry.
Other notable figures and media personalities who graced the occasion included Alhaji Adesola Adetoyese, Baakini of Yorubaland; Barrister Wale Banjo (Omo Ijebu Atata); Adedeji Sunmola (Ebiti); Olusegun Ajayi (Alaseye Oodua); Comrade Oluseun Oduneye, Chairman of NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel; Hon. Olakunle Balogun, Head of Station, Eagle FM; Alaga Geseem; OmoAkin (FineBoy Presenter); Tife Alara; Agbara Oro; Ayinke Chanter; and Adunni Chanter.
The festival lived up to its reputation, drawing a large and diverse crowd for a day filled with excitement, entertainment, and vibrant celebrations of Ijebu heritage.
Visitors of all ages enjoyed a variety of indoor and outdoor games. Adults competed in snooker, table tennis, scrabble, chess, ludo, and ‘ayo olopon’, while children enjoyed bouncy castles, swimming pools, and other recreational activities arranged specially for them.
A major highlight was the cultural festival presentation which showcased the richness of Ijebu tradition.
Attendees were treated to captivating performances including Agemo, Egun Arowodade, Egun Aladeigbo, Eyo, Esu, Igunnuko, Bata Dance, Rubber Body, Traditional Dance, Agere, and traditional chants, each reflecting the artistic brilliance, spirituality, and cultural depth of the Ijebu people.
The festival also celebrated local artisans, honouring 19 outstanding vendors for their dedication and contributions. Each was recognized with awards, including landed properties, highlighting the festival’s commitment to empowerment and community upliftment.
In his address, the festival convener, Prince Sijuade, expressed profound gratitude to all attendees, participants, and partners.
He emphasized that the Ijebu Rewa Games Hangout & Cultural Festival is dedicated to promoting community bonding, preserving cultural heritage, and engaging the youth across the Ijebu region.
He noted that the resounding success of this year’s edition sets a bright tone for the future, leaving participants and guests eagerly anticipating an even bigger and better celebration next year.
