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Malami: EFCC Vows Not To Succumb To Blackmail 

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Abubakar Malami
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has vowed not to bow to alleged blackmail by Abubakar Malami, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, and former Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation.
Malami was detained on Friday by the commission over alleged abuse of office and corruption while he served under late President Muhammadu Buhari.
The Minister has alleged that his detention was politically motivated, saying his bail should not have been revoked.
The commission, in a statement, on Saturday described the claims of  Malami, about a purported revocation of “his bail over attendance at a political gathering in Kebbi,” as false saying its operations are apolitical.
According to the anti-graft agency, administrative bail is a discretionary temporary reprieve that allows a suspect to be released on stated conditions pending conclusion of investigation and arraignment in court.
 To this effect, Malami after his brief interrogation on November 28, 2025, was offered provisional bail hinged on five requirements. He has neither met any of the requirements nor shown readiness to keep faith with them.
He was due back for further interrogation on December 1, 2025 , but in a curious twist, the former Minister pleaded with his investigators through a letter written to the Commission on December 4, 2025, to allow him to attend to his “ill-health”.  The Commission compassionately granted his plea even while his bail conditions had not been met.
He was initially required to commence reporting for further investigations on December 1, 2025 but this had to be deferred to December 4, 2025 largely owing to his “ Request for an Adjournment on Grounds of Ill- Health” . He neither provided a medical report nor credible proof of ill-health to the Commission
The EFCC said it  cannot allow the latitude granted the former Minister on his health stand in the way of investigations .  On this score, he was invited again on December 8, 2025 for further interrogation and detained until the pending bail conditions are met.
The agency stressed that the former minister’s claims of revocation of bail by the EFCC are untenable. It is equally ridiculous to insinuate that the Commission barred him “ from granting media interviews and from participating in political activities in Kebbi State”.
 Such bogus claims from a former chief law officer of the nation are strange, as the EFCC has no interest in the political affiliation of its suspects.  It bears reiterating that the Commission is apolitical. A former governor and ranking member of the ruling party was recently arraigned for alleged contract fraud, the commission said.

“We Have No Hand In The Disruption Of Senate’s Committee Sitting” – ATBU

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Abubakar Tafawa Balewa , University, ATBU

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The authorities of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University ATBU Bauchi on Saturday, December, 13, 2025, distanced themselves from the unruly conduct of a group claiming to be linked to the Alumni Association during the Senate public hearing on  the bill seeking to convert the institution from a  technology-based institution to a conventional one.

The Source reports that the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and Tertiary Education Trust Fund, TETFUND, had, on Thursday, December 11, adjourned proceedings indefinitely after the disruption of its activities by some aggrieved youths opposed to the conversion process.

Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South, had sponsored the bill seeking to change the status of the ATBU to a conventional institution so as to accommodate the educational needs of more people.

However, during the formal presentation of the bill, the committee meeting became heated, following opposition from some quarters including the Nigeria Universities Commission, NUC, the University’s Pro-Chancellor , former Executive Secretary of TETFUND, Prof Suleiman Elias Bogoro,and others.

The tensed atmosphere inside the venue of the   Committee’s sitting  was exacerbated  by pockets of resistance and protests outside by sundry groups including those that claimed to be members of the institution’s alumni association.

Others present during the  hearing were former Governor of Bauchi State, Malam Isah Yuguda, former chairman of Senate Committee on Police, Senator Haliru Dauda Jika, Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi and others.

The  sitting became further charged with  the presentation of a memorandum by the institution’s alumni association’s National President,  Mohammed Sani Wada, a development which forced the Committee to abruptly adjourn proceedings indefinitely.

The ATBU Management, in a statement issued by its spokesperson Zallani Bappa on Saturday, regretted what it described as the “unconventional behaviour” displayed by some individuals during the botched public hearing.

Recounting the unfortunate incident, the University authorities expressed, confidence that its graduates will not exhibit the kind of unruly conduct by some impostors disguising as members of the alumni association.

“The Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund began a public hearing on the bill sponsored by the Senator representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, Alhaji Shehu Buba, on the process of amending the law establishing the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University from a Science and Technology-based University.to a conventional one .

“This hearing began on Thursday,11th December,2025, at about 2 pm. However, the process was adjourned due to a disruption of the procedure by a group of youths who claimed to be members of the alumni association of the University. Some of the media outlets across the country have reported it as such.

“In view of this disturbing information, the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi wishes to distance itself from the action those impostors who are not graduates of the University.

“The ATBU prides itself on graduating disciplined students who have continuously been good ambassadors of the University across the globe for more than four decades.

“Hence, the University is ever confident that its graduates will never engage in any action that will disrespect the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, the University’s reads in part.

The Source further reports that the bill has, in the last few months, sharply divided the people of Bauchi State and the University’s catchment States major stakeholders, as well as graduates of the institution.

While the present university management and the majority of the elite are  not known to be averse to the proposed change, not so for many of the University’s graduates who believe that a change in status will not augur well for the hard earned reputation of the institution.

Kano: Gov Yusuf  Stops Ganduje’s  Independent Hisbah

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Abba Yusuf and Abdullahi Ganduje

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kano State Government has formally banned and criminalized the setting up of any private and or  parallel religious and  cultural security outfit in the State.

The State Governor, Abba Yusuf, Friday evening, December 12, 2025, signed an executive order proscribing any existing or  planned independent Hisbah security outfit in any part of the State.

The Governor’s action is coming against the backdrop of growing concerns over the plan by the immediate past Governor of the State and former National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, APC, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, to establish a 12,000 alternate Hisbah security outfit to assist in combating the new wave of terrorism activities in the State.

However, the state Commissioner for Information, and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Waya, at  a press briefing disclosed that Governor Yusuf has signed an executive order prohibiting the establishment of any kind of private Hisbah in the state outside the already state-backed Hisbah Commission.

He expressed Government’s concern over the plan by some individuals  and groups in mobilizing and recruiting persons into unauthorized and illegal security outfits in Kano.

According to the Commissioner, the State authorities view such illegal moves as targeted at undermining constituted authorities and the peace and stability of  Kano state.

This is as the Government warned the general public, particularly, the youth against participating, supporting or affiliating with the planned security initiative known as “Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi.”

The State authorities said severe consequences await those who may wish to flout the prohibition order.

Consequently, Government called on security agencies in the state, particularly the police, to immediately take steps to thoroughly investigate the situation with a view to unraveling those behind the move to set up parallel security outfits in the state

The Executive Order entitled Kano State Government “Prohibition of the Independent Hisbah Fisabilillahi Order 2025”,  partly reads “It shall not be lawful for any person or groups to recruit, assemble, mobilise,train or deploy persons for the purpose of operating a parallel Hisbah or similar enforcement outfit.

“Any acts  done in furtherance of such a body is unlawful, illegal, null and void”.

According to Waya, the executive order takes immediate effect, and offenders will face prosecution under existing laws covering offenses such as unlawful assembly, impersonation of lawful authorities, and more.

Ondo Police Command Arrests Suspects In Staged Self-Abduction

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Police Officer

By Ayodele Oni

Three suspects, that planned and carried out an abduction ploy to extort money from relations, are now guests of the Ondo State Police Command.

One of the suspects, Tobi Oluwatuyi, had deliberately staged his own kidnapping in a conspiracy with Jubril Abu ‘m’, aged 20, and Segun Oluwatuyi ‘m’, aged 21.

Police record revealed that their intention was to extort a ransom of ₦1.5 million which the victim’s unsuspecting family eventually paid, believing he had been genuinely abducted.

Spokesman of the State, command, Olusola Ayanlade explained in a statement at the weekend that the  individuals involved in a case of self-kidnapping orchestrated to extort money from unsuspecting family members.

“The case began when a concerned citizen reported at the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad that some suspected kidnappers had abducted one Tobi Oluwatuyi ‘m’, aged 22, a truck driver, from the Ilu Abo area of Akure.

“Acting promptly on the report, detectives from the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad immediately commenced a meticulous investigation into the incident.

“As the inquiry progressed, preliminary findings revealed a startling twist: the supposed victim, Tobi Oluwatuyi, had deliberately staged his own kidnapping in conspiracy with Jubril Abu ‘m’, aged 20, and Segun Oluwatuyi ‘m’, aged 21.

“Their intention was to extort a ransom of ₦1,500,000, which the victim’s unsuspecting family eventually paid, believing he had been genuinely abducted.

“Building on this discovery, further investigation confirmed that the entire incident was a calculated attempt by the trio to obtain money fraudulently.

“All suspects have since confessed to their involvement in the crime, reinforcing the effectiveness of the Command’s investigative approach. They will be charged to court at the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.”

Meanwhile, another suspects, described as inter state motorcycle robbers, are helping the command in it’s investigation to unravel others behind the incident.

The command stated that individuals involved in an armed robbery incident in Ile-Oluji, has further reinforced the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property across the State.

“In the course of the robbery, Adaji Aaron (m), aged 20, alongside another accomplice armed with a cutlass, attacked and robbed one Adegbese Ademola (m) of his Boxer motorcycle.

“The victim sustained machete injuries during the attack. However, the swift and courageous intervention by members of the community enabled the pursuit and apprehension of the suspects, highlighting the importance of community vigilance in combating crime and complementing Police efforts.

“Building on this initial breakthrough, intelligence-led policing by the Command facilitated the arrest of additional suspects—Ojima David (m), aged 21, and Chukwuma Linus (m), aged 30—both confirmed members of a notorious syndicate known for stealing motorcycles and operating across state lines.

“All arrested suspects have confessed to the roles they played in the crime and will be charged to court upon the completion of the ongoing investigation.

“The stolen motorcycle has been successfully recovered, while the victim is currently receiving medical treatment at the hospital.”

Ekiti: Gov. Oyebanji Boosts Facilities At Special Schools With Birthday Donations

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Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State

By Ayodele Oni

As preparations for the celebration of the birthday of Ekiti state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji this year, gathers momentum, five special schools in Ekiti State are now counting their blessings from gestures from friends and relations during previous year’s celebrations.

Oyebanji marks his birthday on every December 21.

The five special schools are now wearing new looks with ultra modern facilities which were procured from donations made to them in commemoration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s birthday in the last three years.

Governor Oyebanji had commenced the act of celebrating his birthday with students with disabilities in the three schools since 2022 when he assumed office sustaining the gesture on December 21st of every year.

Oyebanji has always instructed his friends, political associates and groups not to place newspaper advertisement on his birthday, urging them instead to convert the money for such adverts into donations to the special schools in the state.

Three years down the line, the special schools now have better facilities courtesy of the donations by the Governor and his friends and associates.

According to a report on the Governor’s donations to the schools and centres for last year, the benefiting special schools are: Government Special School for Children with Intellectual and Physical Disabilities, Ido- Ekiti, which got total cash donation of N5.4 million; Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere Ekiti which was boosted with total cash of N7.8 million; and Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti which got a total cash donation of N7 million.

Others are Government Therapy Centre for Children With Disabilities, Ado Ekiti; which was gifted a total cash donation of N1 million and Ekiti State Relief and Rehabilitation Center, Ado-Ekiti which got M6.8 million; amounting to a total sum of over N28 million from the donors to the schools and centers.

The cash donations are outside the materials and food items donated to the schools and centres by the Governor, his family members and his associates.

This was disclosed in a report on the projects carried out with the donations forwarded to the Governor by the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Friday.

Projects executed with the cash donations include purchase of 30 iron beds, installation of 2.5 KVA solar inverter energy systems and renovation and installation of 43-inch plasma television at the Ekiti State Relief and Rehabilitation Centre, Ado Ekiti.

At Government Special School for Children with Intellectual and Physical Disabilities, Ido Ekiti, 50 new iron beds were provided due to the massive increase in students’ enrolment.

Facilities provided with the donations at Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere Ekiti include provision of two rooms, purchase of storage equipment (two deep freezers of 160 litres each), a 5.5KVA generator and a 2KVA stabilizer to ensure reliable power supply.

The facilities provided with the donations at Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro Ekiti include solar inverter installation, dormitory bathroom construction, renovation of four toilet rooms in the boys’ hostel and successful execution of water reticulation to both bathrooms to ensure regular water supply.

According to the report, Government Therapy Centre for Children with Disabilities, Ado- Ekiti is yet to utilize the money donated to it as at the time of submission of the report to the Governor.

Princess Agboola noted that the special schools have benefitted immensely from the donations received from the Governor and his admirers who were acting under his instructions to donate to the schools, noting that the gesture has boosted facilities in the schools.

Princess Agboola said in the report: “Every year, you have magnanimously encouraged your family, friends, and political associates to donate to the Special Schools and Centers instead of giving you birthday gifts.

“This generous gesture has greatly supported the development of these facilities and fostered a sense of inclusion among the children in our society.

“On behalf of the three special schools and two centers, we express our heartfelt gratitude and pray for God’s blessings upon you and your households. I am pleased to share how each facility utilized the 2024 birthday donations.

“The successful execution of these projects underscores the significant impact of Your Excellency’s commitment to the Community of Persons with Disabilities.”, she added

Omisore Boycotts Osun APC Primary As Delegates Ratify Oyebanji’s Candidacy

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Iyiola Omisore

By Ayodele Oni

Chairman of the Osun State Primary Election Committee and Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has declared the immediate past Chairman of Nigeria Inland Waterways Authority, (NIWA), Mr Bola Oyebamiji, as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), for next year’s governorship election in the State.

Oyebamiji emerged after he was affirmed by the 1,660 delegates, having been nominated by one of the aspirants, Mr Kunle Adegoke, SAN, and seconded by another aspirant, Senator Babajide Omoworare.

Thereafter, the Chairman of the primary election committee, Governor  Okpebholo, asked for a voice vote, and all the delegates affirmed his candidacy.

In his declaration, Okpebholo said: “By the power conferred on me as Chairman of the primary election committee, I hereby declare Bola Oyebamiji, AMBO, as the candidate of our party.”

Oyebamiji, described as the annoyed candidate of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, is expected to square up with incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, a candidate of the Accord Party and other contestants during next year’s election.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier in the week met with other aspirants of the party in Aso Rock during which he appealed to them to rally round the annoyed candidate.

All the aspirants, except a former secretary of the party, Iyiola Omisore were present during Saturday’s primary election in Osogbo.

Omisore had earlier boycotted the Parley with President Tinubu.

Bayelsa Deputy Governor’s Death: Diri Cuts Short Foreign Trip, Visits Widow

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Douye Diri visits deputy governor widow

By Ayodele Oni

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri has cut short his foreign trip abroad, following the sudden death of his deputy on Thursday.

On arrival in the state capital, Yenegoa, the governor paid a condolence visit to the family of his late Deputy Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, whom he described as a dependable ally.

While consoling the deceased’s wife, Barr (Mrs) Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo at the official residence of the Deputy Governor on Friday December 12, said he shared a wonderful relationship with his late Deputy and promised to support the family.

The Deputy Governor slumped in his office and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa where he died in spite of spirited efforts by doctors to save his life.

Governor Diri’s Statement “Following the sad news of the demise of my dear Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, I had to cut short my official trip outside the state to attend to the incident.

“I led a delegation of top government officials to visit Her Excellency, Mrs. Beatrice Ewhrudjakpo, the widow, and other family members at their official residence at the Government House, Yenagoa.

“Accompanied by my wife, Gloria, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, the immediate past Deputy Governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (retd), and others, I shared with everyone present words of comfort and gave assurances from the government that we will stand with the family at this time.

“I reminded the wife and the family of my close relationship with the late deputy governor since our paths crossed under the immediate past administration and particularly, our time together in the trenches before the Supreme Court declaration that brought us to office in 2020.

“In our almost six years in office, I saw in him a very resourceful partner who was committed to our collective aspiration for the development of our dear state. He will be greatly missed.

“Once again, on behalf of my family, and the Government of Bayelsa State, I extend my deepest condolences to the wife, children, immediate family, the people of Ofoni Federated community, His Excellency, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, and the people of the state for this irreparable loss. May God comfort us all.”

Uzodimma Lauds God’s Grace Upon His Family, Marks 67th Birthday With Thanksgiving Service

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Hope Uzodimma Birthday
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, assisted by his wife, Chioma, displays The Catholic Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV's birthday letter to him during a Special Thanksgiving Service to mark his 67th birthday at the Government House Chapel Owerri... Friday

A grateful Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma on Friday, December 12, marked his 67th birthday celebration with a Thanksgiving Service where he lauded God’s grace upon himself and his family.

The Thanksgiving Service which had in attendance top government officials, Security Chiefs, traditional rulers, religious leaders from different denominations, politicians, youths, women groups, friends, family members and numerous well wishers was held at the Government House Chapel, Owerri.

In his remarks after Service, Governor Uzodimma also called on Imo residents in particular and Nigerians in general to intensify their prayers for the peace, progress, and security of Imo State and the Country.

Though Governor Uzodimma acknowledged the grace and goodness of God upon himself as a person, his little twin daughters who share the same birthday date with him, and his entire family, he however used the occasion to invite the audience to join him in service to the State under his watch through their fervent prayers.

The Governor who emphasised the critical role of divine intervention in overcoming the current social and economic challenges facing the Nation, specifically urged the people to make earnest prayers for sustained peace and continued development across all sectors in Imo State.

Hope Uzodimma Birthday
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, assisted by his wife, Chioma, displays The Catholic Pontiff, Pope Leo XIV’s birthday letter to him during a Special Thanksgiving Service to mark his 67th birthday at the Government House Chapel Owerri… Friday, December 12, 2025.

He stressed that a stable and prosperous Nigeria requires the collective prayers and vigilance of every citizen, especially as the nation continues to grapple with various forms of insecurity and instability.

Governor Uzodimma underscored the belief that unity and spiritual commitment are essential ingredients for navigating the complexities of governance and ensuring the well-being of the populace during this challenging period.

He was however full of appreciation to those who joined his family at the Thanksgiving Service and also prayed for God’s blessings upon them.

Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Okigwe Diocese, Most Rev. (Dr) Solomon Amatu reflected on the essence of abiding by the precepts of God as individuals if we desire peace in our lives, community and State.

Bishop Amatu maintained that “as a people we must stand our ground to know where we are going, know what we want and stand by it so long as it pleases God”.

“Let nobody confuse you because each sees things differently,”  he said, noting that “if you want to please everybody, you may succeed in pleasing no one.”

He then enjoined christians not to evoke the anger of God as was the case during the time of Prophet Isaiah when God regretted creating man.

The Special Thanksgiving by the Governor and his family was characterised by singing of songs of praises by the audience who responded joyously to the renditions of the Government House Chapel choir in gratitude to God for the Governor’s birthday and dedication of the State and the Nation to God.

The highpoints were the cutting of the Governor’s 67th birthday cake and the presentation of letter by Catholic Pontiff, Pope Leo xiv, through the Auxiliary Bishop of Orlu Diocese, Most Rev. (Dr.) Thomas Obiatuegwu to the Governor.

Other gifts came from religious groups, the Imo APC family, St. Rose the Lima Parish, Omuma, the youth group and individuals.

The Governor’s wife, Barr Chioma Uzodimma and her children as well as other top Government officials

Jonathan Mourns Bayelsa Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo

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Goodluck Jonathan
Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has expressed deep shock over the news of the passing of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Dr. Jonathan described Senator Ewhrudjakpo as a devoted public servant, a true patriot, and a loyal steward of Bayelsa State and Nigeria. He noted that throughout his years in public service, the late Deputy Governor served the people of Bayelsa with unwavering passion and earned widespread admiration.

Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo
Late Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo

He recalled Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s hard work, commitment, and lifelong pursuit of knowledge, highlighting the distinction he brought to every office he held. “From his service as Commissioner, to the Senate, and later as Deputy Governor, Senator Ewhrudjakpo was known for his depth, insightful grasp of governance, eloquence, and warm sense of humour”, Jonathan said.

Dr. Jonathan further described his passing as a profound loss to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, as well as to his family and all who worked closely with him.

“Senator Ewhrudjakpo will be remembered for his forthrightness, dedication to duty, and steadfast commitment to the development of Bayelsa,” he said.

The former President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ewhrudjakpo family and the Government of Bayelsa State, urging them to find solace in the impactful life of service he lived in devotion to his people.

He prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Deputy Governor’s soul.

Ikechukwu Eze

Special Adviser to H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

FEC Re-invalidates Ondo Sea Port Licence To Reflect Investor’s Identity

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Lucky Aiyedatiwa, with FEC

By Ayodele Oni

Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the revalidation of the Ondo  State deep sea port licence, signalling commencement of operation.

Ondo State Governor,  Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the approval, as a milestone pivotal for industrialization and investments in the state.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan stated that Aiyedatiwa made the announcement on Friday, while addressing All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders at the final expanded quarterly meeting for 2025 at the International Culture and Event Centre, The Dome,  in Akure.

He explained that the licence, initially secured from the Federal Government during his tenure as deputy governor, faced delays due to a naming error in the original business case.

“There was an error in terms of the name of the potential investor. It created setbacks because the licence was not in the name of Deep Sea Port Limited. We had to start new processes and prepare a brand-new full business case.”

The Governor revealed that the port will be located in Erona, Ilaje local government area, which boasts the state’s longest coastline and serves as a gateway to global trade.

The corridor, he added, will host chemical plants producing fertilisers, the Sunshine Petroleum Zone, and a modular refinery with a 500,000-barrel capacity, all at different planning and development stages.

“A lot is happening. The MOU has been signed, land allocated and preliminary work done. Construction on the modular refinery has already begun, underlining the state’s readiness for large-scale investments.

He emphasised infrastructure development as central to the administration’s strategy, noting that roads to industrial zones are being dualised and modernisation projects are ongoing.

“Preparations for residential, educational, and hospitality facilities to support an anticipated population increase are also underway.”

Highlighting social achievements,  Aiyedatiwa noted that 412 primary healthcare centres have been completed or nearing completion, ambulances provided to all local governments, and doctors’ welfare prioritised.

“Security remains a key focus, with 512 personnel deployed across the state, supported by command and control centres. Traditional rulers have been prioritised with enhanced salaries and mobility to strengthen grassroots oversight.”

Aiyedatiwa urged party unity, stressing that personal ambitions should not divide the APC.

Recalling his governorship primary, he said, “Even if your aspirant does not secure a ticket, it should not divide the party. Eight of 15 aspirants supported me immediately, and the others eventually joined. That is the way it should be.”

He also called for unity ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Linking state progress to national reforms, the Governor pointed out that improved fiscal policies have allowed Ondo to invest in infrastructure, security, and industrial projects while reducing debt.

“We have started with infrastructure and security to attract investors. Once the port, refinery, and petrochemical plants are operational, we can access further funding to support mega projects.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa announced that February 2026 will mark the first anniversary of the elected administration and will feature an investment summit to showcase industrial opportunities to global investors.

He affirmed inclusive development, noting that all local governments will benefit from these projects, with the Native Lookout hosting assets to transform the state’s fortunes.

The Southwest APC Vice Chairman, Hon. Isaac Kekemeke, praised the governor for his humility and inclusive leadership.

He urged lawmakers to participate fully in party activities and highlighted the expansion of representation from 10 to 60 delegates per local government, welcoming stakeholders from all 18 local government areas.