Wike Laments Super Eagles’ Failure to Secure 2026 World Cup Ticket.
Wike made the remarks during the commissioning of the Gwagwalada–Kuje Dual Carriageway, Phase 1, in Abuja, where former Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo was among the dignitaries present.
Addressing Yobo during the event, the minister urged him to relay the message to the national team.
“We have congratulated one of our stars, Joseph Yobo, but let me use this medium, through you, to tell the Super Eagles we’re not happy. I saw people clapping for you; the moment they said ‘Super Eagles,’ I said I won’t clap because I watched the World Cup and saw countries I had never heard of before qualifying to play in the World Cup. But here, we did not qualify. Yobo, go and tell them we’re not happy,” Wike said.
Nigeria failed to secure a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico after a disappointing qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles struggled throughout the series, failing to win any of their first four matches.
Tow managerial changes occurred during the campaign and Franco-Malian coach Eric Chelle was brought in to steady the ship.
After winning four of their remaining six games, Chelle guided the team to the African playoffs where they finally lost the ticket on penalties against DR Congo.
The failure extended Nigeria’s World Cup drought after the country also missed the 2022 tournament in Qatar. On that occasion, the Eagles were denied qualification by Ghana on the away-goals rule following a 1-1 aggregate draw in the final round of the African qualifiers.
Nigeria’s absence from back-to-back World Cups has continued to draw criticism from football stakeholders and supporters, particularly given the country’s pedigree as one of Africa’s most successful football nations.
The Super Eagles have featured at six World Cups, making their debut at the 1994 tournament in the United States and reaching the Round of 16 on three occasions.
The Association of Resident Doctors at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, Ogun State, has announced a 10-day warning strike over the non-payment of revised professional and specialist allowances, acute manpower shortage, delayed training funds, and deteriorating welfare conditions.
The association also imposed a fine of N50,000 on any member who violates the strike directive.
The decision to embark on the industrial action was reached at the association’s second-quarter Ordinary General Meeting held on Monday at the Adebola Adegunwa Hall, OOUTH, Sagamu, according to a communiqué made available to our correspondent on Tuesday.
In the communiqué, signed by the association’s President, Dr John Omotoso, the resident doctors expressed deep concern over the Ogun State Government’s failure to implement and pay the revised Professional Allowance and Specialist Allowance, including outstanding arrears.
They noted that despite the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum earlier issued to the government, no Memorandum of Understanding had been signed and no firm commitment had been received regarding the implementation and payment of the revised allowances.
The communiqué stated: “Congress expressed serious concerns regarding the non-implementation and non-payment of the revised Professional Allowance and Specialist Allowance, including outstanding arrears.
“Congress noted that despite the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum, no Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed and no firm commitment to payment has been received from the relevant authorities.”
The doctors also decried the delay in the payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, despite its adoption by the Ogun State Government, as well as critical manpower shortages that have resulted in excessive workload, burnout, and prolonged working hours due to inadequate staffing across departments.
Other concerns raised included recurrent security breaches, theft and burglary within the hospital environment, which they said posed risks to staff and patients, the poor condition of call rooms and inadequate accommodation facilities, as well as the persistent poor quality and inadequate provision of call meals for resident doctors.
The association stated that after extensive deliberations, “the congress unanimously decided to proceed on a 10-day warning strike, demand the immediate payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund and that the revised Professional Allowance and Specialist Allowance be reflected in the July 2026 salary payment.”
The doctors also demanded a comprehensive overhaul of the hospital’s security architecture, including improved lighting, enhanced perimeter fencing, and other necessary security measures.
They further called for the immediate renovation and upgrading of call rooms and accommodation facilities, as well as an improvement in the quality and quantity of call meals provided to resident doctors.
The association warned that “any doctor found disobeying the directive of the association during the 10-day warning strike would pay a fine of N50,000.
It added that an emergency general meeting would be convened at the expiration of the warning strike to review developments and determine the next line of action.
As the 2027 general elections approach, the people of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency have before them a leader whose record of service, compassion, and commitment to grassroots development speaks for itself.
Hon. Oluwakemi Razaq Daddah has emerged as a formidable contender for the House of Representatives, bringing with him a wealth of experience, visionary leadership, and an enduring passion for public service.Popularly known for his humility and human kindness, Hon. Oluwakemi Razaq Daddah has built a reputation as a grassroots politician who understands the needs of the people and consistently works to address them.
As the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Ijebu Central Federal Constituency, comprising Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North East Local Government Areas, he represents hope, continuity, and purposeful leadership.
Hon. Razaq Daddah’s journey in public service has been defined by integrity, accessibility, and a genuine commitment to community development. Throughout his political career, he has demonstrated the ability to translate government policies into meaningful benefits for ordinary citizens, earning respect and admiration across political, social, and economic divides.
During his tenure as Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government remains one of the notable highlights of his public service career. Under his leadership, the local government witnessed significant infrastructural development, including the construction and rehabilitation of roads that improved connectivity, boosted economic activities, and enhanced the quality of life of residents.
Beyond infrastructure, Hon. Razaq Daddah championed people-oriented initiatives that strengthened community participation in governance. Through regular stakeholder engagements, inclusive leadership, and strategic collaboration with traditional rulers and community leaders, he promoted a culture of collective responsibility and sustainable development.
The impact of his administration continues to resonate across Ijebu Ode today. Many of the developmental strides recorded during his tenure laid the foundation for sustained economic growth, stronger institutions, and improved social cohesion within the community.
In recognition of his competence and outstanding performance, the Ogun State Government appointed Hon. Oluwakemi Razaq Daddah as Special Adviser to Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun on Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs. In this strategic position, he played a vital role in policy formulation, conflict resolution, grassroots governance, and the strengthening of traditional institutions as key partners in the state’s development agenda.
As Special Adviser, Hon. Razaq Daddah served as an effective bridge between government, local authorities, and traditional rulers, fostering harmony, promoting effective governance, and supporting sustainable development initiatives across Ogun State. His ability to handle complex administrative and community-related matters further reinforced his reputation as a dependable and result-oriented public servant.
His aspiration to represent Ijebu Central Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives is driven by a sincere desire to advance development and ensure effective representation for the people at the national level. Hon. Razaq Daddah envisions a constituency where quality infrastructure, youth empowerment, quality education, accessible healthcare, and expanded economic opportunities become realities for all citizens.
With extensive experience in local governance and state administration, Hon. Oluwakemi Razaq Daddah possesses the practical knowledge, legislative understanding, and leadership capacity required to attract federal projects, sponsor people-focused legislation, and effectively advocate for the interests of Ijebu Ode, Odogbolu, and Ijebu North East.
His leadership philosophy is anchored on accountability, inclusiveness, transparency, and service to humanity. These values, combined with his proven track record of performance and dedication to community development, distinguish him as a credible and capable representative for the constituency.
As the APC candidate for the House of Representatives, Hon. Oluwakemi Razaq Daddah stands as a symbol of progress, compassion, and purposeful leadership. His experience, vision, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people positioned him as the ideal choice to champion the aspirations of Ijebu Central Federal Constituency and contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and prosperity of Ogun State and Nigeria.
A renowned cleric, Sam Alo, on Monday, felicitated with Governor Abiodun Oyebanji on his re-election as Ekiti State Governor, urging him to run an all-inclusive government in the state.
A statement released by the cleric’s Personal Assistant, Deji Ogunbusuyi, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, further urged Oyebanji to carry all stakeholders, political groups, and communities along for the betterment and development of the state.
The cleric also hailed President Bola Tinubu for providing a peaceful atmosphere that enabled the Independent National Electoral Commission to conduct a hitch-free governorship election in the state.
Online reports that Oyebanji emerged as the overall winner of the gubernatorial election conducted in Ekiti State on Saturday, as he defeated candidates of about 13 registered political parties that participated in the poll and thus created a record as the first sitting governor to win a re-election in the state.
However, Alo, in a statement on Monday, said, “Let me use this period to congratulate Governor Abiodun Oyebanji on his re-election as Ekiti State Governor. I’m also urging him to run an all-inclusive government that carries all stakeholders, political groups, and communities along for the betterment and development of the state.
“Governor Oyebanji should consolidate on the good work that earned him the people’s mandate again. Ekiti residents have rewarded him. He should be more focused on infrastructure, agriculture, and welfare programmes for another four years.
”He stressed that Oyebanji must ensure the creation of an enabling environment for peace to reign across the state, adding, “Lasting development can only thrive where unity and security are guaranteed. Remain humble, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the masses.”
He, therefore, prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and protection for the governor as he begins his new tenure, saying God will order the governor’s steps to deliver more dividends of democracy to the state.
As Ogun State gradually approaches another critical political cycle ahead of the 2027 general elections, various political interest groups and grassroots movements continue to position themselves within the evolving political landscape. Among these emerging and established political platforms, the Yayi Progressives Movement has distinguished itself as one of the most vibrant, organized, and influential grassroots political movements currently shaping conversations across the state.
Led by its Convener, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, and coordinated by Hon. Olusegun Kaka alongside other notable leaders, apex executives, and thousands of committed members, the Yayi Progressives Movement has grown into a formidable political force. The movement has continued to attract widespread support from youths, women, community leaders, artisans, professionals, and party loyalists who share a common vision for the future of Ogun State.
The journey of the movement reflects a remarkable evolution in grassroots political mobilization. Before the 2023 general elections, the platform operated as the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda (DACA), a political structure established to support the re-election bid of Governor Dapo Abiodun. As political realities evolved and broader consultations were held among stakeholders, the movement transformed into the Omoluabi Movement, embracing a wider ideological framework centered on progressive values, inclusiveness, and people-oriented leadership.
Following further strategic engagements and mergers with several political groups across Ogun State, the organization eventually emerged as the Yayi Progressives Movement. This transformation was not merely a change of name but a deliberate effort to build a stronger and more united political platform capable of mobilizing citizens from all corners of the state under a common progressive agenda.
Today, under the visionary leadership of Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, the Yayi Progressives Movement has become a household name in Ogun politics. With a membership strength exceeding 50,000 across the state’s twenty local government areas, the movement has established itself as one of the largest and most coordinated political support groups in Ogun State.
The recent inauguration of the movement at the Ake Palace Ground in Abeokuta provided a clear demonstration of its growing popularity and influence. The massive turnout of members and supporters from different parts of the state reflected not only the movement’s organizational capacity but also the growing acceptance of its political vision.
The gathering further reaffirmed the group’s unwavering support for Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, and other candidates aligned with the movement’s progressive ideals. Beyond political mobilization, the Yayi Progressives Movement has emerged as a bridge connecting citizens to active political participation and leadership opportunities.
The movement continues to create platforms for engagement, mentorship, and grassroots involvement, especially among young people who seek meaningful participation in governance and public affairs. One of the defining strengths of the movement remains the leadership style of its Convener, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde.
Widely regarded by supporters as a strategic mobilizer and grassroots politician, Akintunde has consistently demonstrated commitment, resilience, and a deep understanding of the political dynamics of Ogun State. His ability to unite diverse interests, build strong alliances, and sustain an expanding network of supporters has been instrumental in the movement’s growth and relevance across the state.
Equally deserving of recognition are the executive members and coordinators who continue to drive the vision of the movement at various levels. From local government coordinators to ward executives and state officers, these dedicated individuals have invested time, resources, and energy in strengthening the movement’s structures. Their commitment to grassroots engagement, community outreach, and political education has significantly contributed to the movement’s increasing visibility and acceptance among the people.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, the movement has set an ambitious target of expanding its membership base to over 80,000 across Ogun State. According to the Convener, this objective reflects the group’s determination to build a robust grassroots network capable of contributing meaningfully to the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its candidates from the presidential election down to legislative contests at both federal and state levels.
For Ogun residents, the Yayi Progressives Movement presents an opportunity to become part of a growing political family committed to progressive governance, grassroots development, and inclusive participation. The movement encourages citizens, particularly young people, to move beyond political spectatorship and become active stakeholders in shaping the future of their communities and the state at large.
As the political atmosphere continues to evolve, one thing remains increasingly evident; the Yayi Progressives Movement has become a significant player in Ogun State’s political equation. Whether measured by its growing membership, organizational structure, leadership capacity, or grassroots appeal, the movement stands as a political force to watch in the journey toward 2027 and beyond.
Oluseun JOSHUA, a journalist and State Media Director of the Yayi Progressives Movement, writes from Ogun State.
The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), the Ijebu Development Initiative on Poverty Reduction (IDIPR) and Imowo Microfinance Bank on Friday handed over 50 assembled-in-Nigeria three-wheel mobility assets to urban transport operators in Ijebu-Ode as part of efforts to expand access to consumer credit, reduce poverty and stimulate local economic growth.
The handover ceremony, held at the Awujale Palace, brought together traditional rulers, business leaders, development practitioners, financial institutions and community stakeholders in a demonstration of support for initiatives aimed at promoting financial inclusion, asset ownership and sustainable development across Ijebuland.
The programme, implemented in partnership with Simba TVS, forms part of CREDICORP’s nationwide mobility initiative and its flagship S.C.A.L.E. (Securing Consumer Access for Local Enterprises) programme, which seeks to connect consumer purchasing power with local manufacturing, job creation and industrial growth.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the CREDICORP Board, Otunba Aderemi Abdul-Bojela, described consumer credit as a critical driver of industrialisation, economic inclusion and shared prosperity.
According to him, the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s long-standing vision of making credit accessible to ordinary Nigerians as a means of stimulating economic growth and strengthening local industries.
Abdul-Bojela said President Tinubu had championed the idea of consumer credit long before assuming office, maintaining that broad-based access to finance is essential for sustainable economic development.
Drawing from his experience as an industrialist, he noted that one of the biggest challenges facing manufacturers is weak consumer purchasing power, which often slows inventory turnover and constrains business growth.
“Manufacturing succeeds when producers can sell what they make at the right speed. The answer is structured consumer credit designed to enable Nigerians to purchase Nigerian-made goods and services,” he said.
He added that CREDICORP’s programmes are designed to connect Nigerian consumers directly to Nigerian producers, expand demand for locally manufactured products and create jobs across the value chain.
Also speaking, CREDICORP’s Executive Director of Operations, Olanike Kolawole, described asset-backed credit as one of the most powerful tools for inclusive economic growth.
“Ijebu-Ode is the latest chapter in a story we are writing across Nigeria. Our mission remains helping hardworking Nigerians access the assets they need today while paying responsibly over time,” she said.
Kolawole noted that the mobility programme complements other interventions by the corporation, including the recently launched Women in Mobility Programme, aimed at empowering Nigerians through productive asset ownership.
Chairman of Imowo Microfinance Bank, Otunba (Mrs.) Abolaji Osibogun, said the initiative would enable beneficiaries to move from being transport operators to asset owners while improving their earning capacity and financial independence.
She described the three-wheelers as more than transportation assets, saying they represent opportunities for livelihood, economic empowerment and wealth creation.
“This is what responsible financial inclusion looks like. It is not charity; it is structured, dignified financing that enables hardworking people to build better lives for themselves,” she said.
Osibogun explained that Imowo Microfinance Bank, which has served communities across Ogun State for more than three decades, provided the credit structure for the programme, conducted due diligence and ensured regulatory compliance throughout the process.
She noted that the bank’s partnership with CREDICORP reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to finance for farmers, traders, artisans and small business owners.
The Imowo MFB chairman congratulated the beneficiaries, describing them as the first batch of asset owners under the programme in Ijebuland.
“You were selected because you demonstrated commitment and creditworthiness. You are no longer just operators; you are becoming owners,” she said.
Chairman of IDIPR, Lekan Bello, described the collaboration as a natural partnership between institutions committed to improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities.
Bello traced the origins of IDIPR to the historic Ijebu Day Consultative Conference on Poverty Reduction convened in 1999 under the leadership of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, noting that the organisation has since evolved into a nationally and internationally recognised model for poverty reduction and community development.
According to him, IDIPR has impacted more than 133,000 beneficiaries, facilitated the establishment of over 189 community societies and created more than 1,300 direct jobs through programmes focused on youth empowerment, healthcare, enterprise development and financial inclusion.
He disclosed that the organisation’s microfinance initiatives have disbursed billions of naira in loans, primarily to women entrepreneurs, while maintaining an impressive 99.4 per cent loan recovery rate.
Bello also highlighted the Ijebu Village Innovation Cluster, which he described as the largest community-based fish farming project in sub-Saharan Africa, producing about 2,000 metric tonnes of catfish annually and contributing significantly to the local economy.
“What CREDICORP is doing today is helping significantly in reducing poverty in Ijebuland. Our appetite for microcredit is far larger than what we currently have, and this partnership will help expand economic opportunities for our people,” Bello said.
CREDICORP disclosed that it has so far enabled 227,728 Nigerians to access consumer credit for vehicles, digital devices, solar energy systems, work tools, home improvement projects and other essential needs. The corporation currently works through 35 financial institutions nationwide and has maintained zero non-performing loans while supporting growth across 15 local industries.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CREDICORP, Uzoma Nwagba, reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to making consumer credit accessible to hardworking Nigerians, stressing that responsible access to finance remains a key driver of productivity, wealth creation and improved living standards.
Dignitaries at the event included Chief Olorogun Sonny Kuku, Ogbeni Oja Akile Ijebu and Chairman of the occasion, represented by the Apebi of Ijebu-Ode, Chief Kunle Ogunade; Otunba Lateef Owoyemi, former President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and Head of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House; members of the CREDICORP Board; directors of Imowo Microfinance Bank; traditional rulers; community leaders; business executives; development partners; and other distinguished guests from across Ijebuland and beyond.
Stakeholders said the partnership is expected to strengthen access to credit for transport operators, entrepreneurs, small business owners and households, while supporting broader efforts to reduce poverty, expand local enterprise and accelerate sustainable economic development across Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.
Argentine television presenter Florencia Peña has resigned following a major on-air blunder in which she announced the death of Jorge Messi, father of football superstar Lionel Messi.
According to a report by L’Equipe on Friday, the incident occurred during the programme “El Show del Verano” on Luzu TV. Peña was reportedly fed the false information through her earpiece by the production team.The erroneous announcement quickly spread before it was debunked by members of the Messi family.
Jorge Messi is alive and has been reported to be recovering from health issues.The channel issued a statement immediately after condemning the lapse, describing the broadcast of sensitive information without proper verification as “inacceptable.”
Luzu TV said it had decided to dismiss those responsible for the error, while Peña chose to step down. “We regret deeply what happened on air,” the station stated.Peña later took to social media to apologise to the Messi family, admitting she was deeply ashamed for causing them pain.
She revealed that she had personally contacted Lionel Messi’s mother, Celia Cuccittini, In an emotional appearance on another programme, “Sálvese Quien Pueda,” the visibly distraught presenter explained the circumstances leading to her resignation.
The matter drew strong reactions in Argentina, including from President Javier Milei, who criticised the journalist harshly on social media, calling her a “commère mesquine” (petty gossip) and stating that an attack on Messi is an attack on everyone.
The story has sparked widespread discussions online, particularly among football fans.
A post by football coverage handle #TouchlineX, which detailed the resignation and apology, elicited varied reactions.
One user, #3getKennethed22, commented “This is bad communication from the production team and she doesn’t have to resign for it.”
Another, #bodex333, noted “You have to take some minutes to digest info before going on air and announce such info without legit confirmation.”
While #Osinbolu1 observed “One wrong cue in the earpiece… and a simple mistake becomes global news involving one of the most sensitive names in football.”
Peña’s resignation marks the end of what has been described as a career-damaging error, though her prompt apology and direct outreach to the Messi family have been acknowledged by some as responsible steps.
The Nigeria Police Force on Friday said it has completed security deployments across all 2,545 polling units in Ekiti State ahead of the governorship election scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Commissioner of Police in charge of Election Security, CP Shogule Abayomi said a multi-layered security architecture had been adopted to guarantee a peaceful, credible and hitch-free election.
He said security personnel and operational assets had been strategically positioned across polling units and other designated locations to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials, election observers and sensitive electoral materials throughout the exercise.
The deployment, he added, also covers critical infrastructure, major entry and exit routes, border communities and other strategic locations identified as vital to the electoral process.
Abayomi said, “Security deployments and operational arrangements for the Ekiti State Governorship Election scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026, with security coverage extended to all 2,545 polling units across the state has been put in place.
The deployment also covers critical infrastructure, major entry and exit routes, border communities, and other strategic locations identified as vital to ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
He stated, “Security personnel and operational assets have been strategically positioned across polling units and other designated locations to ensure the safety of voters, electoral officials, election observers, and sensitive electoral materials throughout the exercise.”
He said the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, assured the public that all officers deployed for election duties had been adequately briefed on their responsibilities and rules of engagement.
“Personnel would carry out their duties professionally, impartially, and in strict compliance with the law,” he said.
Abayomi warned that electoral offences and any actions capable of undermining the integrity of the electoral process would be met with appropriate sanctions under the Electoral Act and other relevant laws.
He urged eligible voters to turn out peacefully and exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation, while cautioning against the spread of unverified information capable of causing panic or disrupting public order.
Abayomi also released emergency number residents of the state could contact.
“Citizens are urged to remain law-abiding and conduct themselves peacefully before, during, and after the election. The police encourage members of the public to promptly report any security concerns through the dedicated election emergency line, 080062335577, which will remain active throughout the election period to facilitate rapid response and intervention,” he said.
No fewer than 13 political parties would participate in the state governorship election slated for Saturday.
Grammy-winning Nigerian singer Tems has shared candid thoughts on modern relationships, saying many men approach women with intentions that are primarily sexual rather than emotional.
Speaking during an episode of Flow With Korty, the singer reflected on her experiences with love and dating when asked whether she had ever been in love.
According to Tems, many men make their intentions obvious from the outset.“A lot of guys, they are very obvious. There is no agenda but to penetrate,” she said.
The remark sparked conversations on social media, with fans and commentators debating her assessment of contemporary dating and relationships.
Beyond discussing romance, Tems also opened up about her childhood experiences, revealing that she was often misunderstood because of her reserved personality.She recalled being bullied while growing up due to her quiet nature and the way she expressed herself.
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has said his administration is one of the few states implementing the approved national minimum wage.
Adeleke made this known in Osogbo, Osun State on Wednesday at the opening session of the National Retreat of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council.
The governor also said his administration has placed high premium on workers’ welfare through provision of work friendly environment to enhance their productivity.Beside payment of the national minimum wage to its workers,
Adeleke also said his administration has equally continued the implementation of measures to ease the burden on retirees.
He added that efforts were being made to clear outstanding liabilities to the retirees.Highlighting other incentives to motivate the state workforce, the governor said he has ensured regular and prompt payment of salaries to workers across the State.
He stated, “We have maintained a cordial relationship with organised labour and kept open channels of communication for conflict resolution. Osun State is one of the few States implementing the approved national minimum wage. This also covers consequential adjustments for eligible workers in the State.
We have also consistently approved and implemented promotions and career progression opportunities for deserving public servants. I personally ensured that the dignity of labour is upheld.
“For our pensioners, we have taken deliberate steps to improve their welfare. We pay monthly pensions regularly. Our government has made substantial payments towards inherited pension arrears and outstanding obligations.”
Beyond workers’ welfare, the governor said his administration has invested massively in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and local economic development.
“These investments not only improve the quality of life of our people but also create a more enabling environment for economic growth and job creation,” he said
He commended the leadership of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council for choosing Osun as the host of this year’s retreat, saying the development was a vote of confidence in his administration where labour and workers’ welfare was topmost priority.
The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council is the official consultative and negotiating platform for the Nigerian Government and Organised Labour.
It brings together representatives from government agencies and eight public service trade unions.
The convener of the Yayi Progressives Movement (YPM) Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, has congratulated the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, and the party’s governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), on the selection of Mrs. Kudirat Abiodun Balogun as the deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 election.
Mrs. Balogun is a distinguished corporate executive, finance professional, and business leader with extensive experience in finance, corporate governance, manufacturing, business transformation, and strategic leadership.
In a statement released to journalists on Monday in Abeokuta by the State Media Director of the movement, Oluseun Joshua, and signed by the Convener, Armstrong ‘Tope Akintunde, the Movement described the choice of Mrs. Balogun (nee Adegunwa) as a strategic and commendable decision that reflects the party’s commitment to inclusiveness, competence, and balanced representation.
Akintunde noted that the APC’s decision demonstrates political foresight and a clear understanding of Ogun State’s diverse interests.
According to the Convener, selecting the daughter of renowned industrialist, philanthropist, Chairman of Rite Foods Limited, and Asiwaju of Ijebuland, Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa, underscores the party’s determination to foster unity and ensure equitable representation across the state’s geopolitical zones.
He further stated that with Senator Adeola emerging from Ogun West Senatorial District and Mrs. Balogun representing Ijebuland, the APC has reinforced its commitment to a fair rotational arrangement capable of strengthening governance and promoting inclusiveness.
“I celebrate our respected leaders and principals, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, Senator Solomon Adeola, and our great party for putting the right peg in the right hole. This is indeed a balanced and strategic arrangement that positions the APC strongly ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Ogun State.
“We all know the immense contributions of our father and icon of Ijebuland, Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa, whose entrepreneurial legacy through Rite Foods has created opportunities and impacted countless lives. Having his daughter as the deputy governorship candidate further reflects the party’s recognition of competence, service, and broad-based representation.
Armstrong Akintunde added that the APC remains a party driven by unity, inclusiveness, and collective purpose, expressing confidence that the emergence of Mrs. Balogun as Senator Adeola’s running mate would further strengthen the party’s chances in the 2027 general election”.
In the same statement, the State Coordinator of the movement, Hon. Olusegun Kaka, commended the leadership of the APC for its efforts in strengthening the party’s structure and positioning it for future success.
Kaka expressed optimism that the APC would record overwhelming victories in the 2027 general elections, citing the party’s strong grassroots presence, leadership credentials, and growing support base across Ogun State.
He maintained that the APC remains the party to beat in the state and expressed confidence that its candidates would emerge victorious at all levels of the election.
The Yayi Progressives Movement reaffirms its commitment to grassroots mobilization, political education, and the promotion of progressive leadership across Ogun State. The movement remains dedicated to supporting policies and leaders capable of delivering sustainable development, economic growth, and inclusive governance for all residents of the state.
A socio-political group, the Daytayo Progressive Movement (DPM), has announced plans to stage a mega rally in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State in support of the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the governorship aspiration of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), the re-election bid of Hon. Lukman Adeleye for the Ogun State House of Assembly, and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
The group, led by former House of Assembly aspirant for Odogbolu State Constituency and current Special Assistant to the Ogun State Governor, Hon. Moshood Adetayo Abubakar, popularly known as Daytayo.
Hon. Daytayo revealed that the rally is part of ongoing efforts to mobilise grassroots support for the APC and its candidates ahead of the forthcoming elections.
The mega rally is scheduled to hold on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Odogbolu Motor Park/Garage., and is expected to attract party faithful, supporters, community leaders, youths, women groups and other stakeholders from across the local government area.
While speaking to journalists on the planned rally, Daytayo explained that the event is aimed at demonstrating the overwhelming support enjoyed by President Tinubu, Senator Adeola, Hon. Lukman Adeleye and other APC candidates in the State
According to him, the rally will also provide an opportunity for supporters of the party to reaffirm their commitment to the progressive ideals of the APC and showcase the achievements and leadership qualities of the candidates.
He noted that President Tinubu’s administration has continued to implement policies aimed at repositioning the nation, while Senator Adeola has distinguished himself through impactful constituency projects, empowerment programmes and developmental initiatives across Ogun State.
Daytayo also described Hon. Lukman Adeleye as a committed representative who has remained accessible to his constituents and has continued to champion the interests of the people of Odogbolu State Constituency at the Ogun State House of Assembly.
Adding excitement to the event, Daytayo revealed that popular Fuji music star, Sule Alao Malaika, will entertain guests and supporters at the rally, alongside other attractions lined up by the organisers.
He expressed confidence that the massive turnout expected at the rally would send a strong message about the readiness of APC supporters in Odogbolu to work for the success of the party and its candidates.
He therefore called on APC members, supporters and residents of Odogbolu and neighbouring communities to turn out in large numbers and be part of what he described as a historic gathering in support of the party’s candidates.
