Be yourself; Everyone else is already taken.
— Oscar Wilde.
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Egbewole applauds appointment of TVC News Director, Kolade-Otitoju
Prof. Wahab Egbewole SAN, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ilorin (Unilorin), has applauded the appointment of Mr Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, as the Director of News, Television Continental (TVC).
This is contained in a statement signed by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, on Friday in Ilorin.
The Vice-Chancellor described the appointment of the veteran journalist as befitting and well-deserving.
Egbewole noted that the appointment reflects Babajide-Otitoju’s years of experience, editorial leadership, and commitment to credible and impactful journalism.
The Vice-Chancellor, also the Secretary-General of the Association of West African Universities (AWAU), said that the elevation, no doubt, marked a very significant milestone in Babajide-Otitoju’s media career.
He urged the veteran journalist to continue to discharge his responsibilities with his characteristic courage, finesse, and professionalism.
“Babajide-Otitoju, has over three decades of exciting experience in the media industry graduated from the University’s Department of History in 1989.
“I wish Babajide-Otitoju a more successful and rewarding career,” Egbewole said.
NSCDC inaugurates Amoyo Divisional Headquarters in Kwara
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara Command, on Thursday, inaugurated the Amoyo Divisional Headquarters, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state, to strengthen security at the grassroots.
Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Community Development, Alhaji Abdullahi Bata, described security as a critical foundation for development.
The governor reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to support security agencies in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
He commended the NSCDC for its visible presence and proactive approach to security across communities in the state.
AbdulRazaq said that the inauguration of the Divisional HQ would further strengthen the Corps’ capacity to safeguard lives, property, and critical assets within the area.
On his part, the Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government Area, Malam AbdulRasheed Yusuf, praised the NSCDC in Amoyo led by Mrs Funmilayo Omoyele.
The chairman described her as hardworking, dedicated, and community-focused.
Yusuf noted that her tireless efforts and effective coordination with community stakeholders have contributed significantly to improved security in the area.
He pledged the local government’s continued support to the Corps.
He promised to provide a motorcycle and an operational vehicle to enhance patrols and rapid response within the division.
In his remarks, the State Commandant of NSCDC, Commander Umar Mohammed, described the inauguration of the office complex as part of a deliberate strategy to strengthen the Corps’ presence at the grassroots.
Mohammed reiterated the Corps’ readiness to combat crime and protect critical national assets across the state, stressing that improved infrastructure directly translates to better service delivery.
He expressed appreciation to the state government, Ifelodun Local Government Council, and host communities for their unwavering support.
Mohammed also commended officers and men of Amoyo Division for their dedication and professionalism.
The projects include, Divisional Sign Post, Quarter Guard, newly built offices, Photo stand, and the renovated existing office building. all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and improving the working environment for the personnel.
Nigeria Custom Service gets new Head in Kwara
The Nigeria Customs Service, Kwara Command has appointed an Acting Area Controller, DC Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi.
Ogundeyi expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and his management team for giving him the opportunity to serve the nation in that capacity.
He extended sincere appreciation and commendation to Comptroller Faith Mathew Ojeifo (rtd) for his outstanding dedication, professionalism, and exemplary leadership throughout his tenure.
“Compt. Ojeifo’s unwavering commitment to duty, discipline, and service has laid a strong foundation upon which the Command will continue to build.
“I am committed to uphold the standards, values, and excellence of the service with the cooperation and support of officers and men of the Command,” he said.
The Acting Comptroller emphasized on teamwork, professionalism, transparency, and discipline as the pillars of effective leadership.
He reiterated that his leadership approach would be anchored on mutual respect, strict adherence to rules and regulations, and unwavering commitment to effective service delivery.
“Every officer and personnel will be motivated to give their utmost best, recognizing that our collective effort is central to our success.
“I call on all officers to extend the same level of cooperation, support, and dedication accorded to my predecessor.
“Together, we shall work diligently to sustain existing achievements, address emerging challenges, and advance the progress of this Command,” he said.
The Outgoing Area Controller, Compt. Faith Ojeifo urged officers and men to give the newly deployed acting controller the necessary support to excel.
Comptroller Ojeifo expressed appreciation to all officers and men of the Command, sister security agencies, and stakeholders for their immense cooperation during his tenure.
“Together, we recorded commendable achievements in revenue generation, enforcement, and service delivery,” he said.
The former Comptroller explained that he has absolute confidence in the leadership capacity, experience, and professionalism of the Acting Controller, DC Najeem Akanmu Ogundeyi.
“I remain grateful to the Comptroller General of Customs for the opportunity to serve, and I wish Kwara Command continued peace, progress, and operational excellence,” he said.
2027: APC members warns against imposing governorship candidate in Kwara
Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara state, under the aegis of the Kwara Political Leaders of Thought (KPLOT) have called on the national leadership of APC not to impose governorship candidate on the state in the forthcoming 2027 general elections.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Thursday, the group led by Mohammed Mariam Alhassan, said that ideal leader for Kwara in 2027 could come from any district of the state, stressing that 2027 governorship should not be based on zoning.
The APC group, which advised the party’s national leadership and the Presidency, to be cautious on issue of who becomes Kwara governorship candidate in the 2027 general elections, said that the stakeholders should be guided.
Alhassan said that Kwara is practically at war, especially due to insecurity challenges in some parts of the state, adding that, “wars are not won by convenience or sentiment, but by deliberate strategic, and competent leadership.
“Kwara is confronted today with realities that leave us with no room for emotional politics, convenient assumptions, or premature conclusions.
“The present reality demands sobriety,
honesty, and courage. It requires that our political decisions be driven by capacity, competence, and character, not by sentiment or turn-by-turn calculations.
“From Edu to Patigi, Ifelodun to Isin, and from Ekiti to Kaiama, Kwara state has, regrettably, become an epicentre of banditry and terrorism, a situation unprecedented in the history of our state,” he said.
The group commended both the state government, led by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for
their sustained efforts at stemming the tide.
“We hearken to say that communities are still under siege, livelihoods are still threatened, and the sense of safety that once defined Kwara has been gravely eroded.
“In the face of this crisis, it is no longer acceptable to approach leadership selection the way we might have done in more stable
times.
Alhassan queried that if Kwara once had the luxury of making sentimental political choices, that luxury no longer exists.
“The leadership question before us is no longer about where a candidate comes from, but who that candidate is.
“Who has the competence to confront insecurity? Who has the capacity to rebuild confidence in governance? Who has the courage, experience, and vision to navigate Kwara out of its present challenges and secure its future?
“These are the questions occupying the minds of ordinary Kwarans across the state, not the narrow, primordial sentiments being promoted by a section of the political class,” he said.
The group also said that the ideal leader for Kwara in 2027 can come from anywhere; North, South, or Central, adding that, “If the best and most capable candidate emerges from the North, we must not hesitate to support such a person. “If that candidate comes from the South, the same principle must apply. If competence and capacity reside in the Central, we must equally embrace it.
“At this critical moment, limiting our choices based on zoning or primordial sentiment is dangerous, and the consequences will be borne by all Kwarans,” he said.
The people also called on traditional rulers in the state to steer clear of partisan politics and political agitations and permutations, saying that, “the throne derives its strength from neutrality, moral authority, and the trust of all subjects, irespective of their political leanings.
“Once a royal institution is dragged into partisan battles, it risks losing its unifying essence and the sacred distance that commands reverence. Monarchs must remember that their domains are
home to people of diverse and often conflicting political interests; aligning with one tendency, no matter the temptation
or promised reward, inevitably alienates others, and erodes the
sanctity of the stool,” he said.
Youth Parliament commends ex-Minister of defence, Badaru for exemplary service
The West Africa Youth Parliament (WAYP) has commended the immediate past Minister of Defence, Dr. Abubakar Badaru, for his outstanding, selfless and patriotic service to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
This is contained in a statement signed by Amb. Olasunkanmi Kolawole, Regional Speaker, West Africa Youth Parliament (WAYP).
“During Dr Badaru’s tenure as the Minister of Defence, he demonstrated uncommon commitment, strategic leadership and unwavering loyalty to Nigeria as a country.
“His contributions significantly strengthened the nation’s defence architecture and recorded notable progress in the fight against banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity across affected regions.
“These achievements brought renewed hope, improved stability and restored confidence in the nation’s security efforts,” Kolawole said.
The WAYP also acknowledged Babaru’s steadfast, loyalty and invaluable contributions to the present administration, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Dr. Badaru’s sense of duty, discipline and alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda remained exemplary and worthy of emulation by present and future public office holders.
“He continued to serve as a mentor, guide and source of inspiration to Nigerian youths and the West African youth community at large.
“His accessibility, wisdom and consistent support for youth development initiatives reflect his deep belief in the power of young people as drivers of peace, security and sustainable development in the region,” he said.
The Parliament prayed that Almighty God grants the former Minister of Defence sound health, long life, and greater opportunities to continue serving Nigeria and the West Africa region in higher capacities.
Emir of Ilorin mourns ex-CJN, Muhammad
The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has expressed deep pains over the demise of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad.
This is contained in a condolence message issued on Tuesday, by the Emir’s Press Secretary, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona.
Sulu-Gambari described the deceased as an incorruptible jurist, who served the nation diligently before his voluntary resignation as the 18th Chief Justice of Nigeria and retirement from judicial service.
“The late Justice Tanko worked with me at the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division before my enthronement as the 11th Emir of Ilorin in 1995.
“I had since then held him in very high esteem, due to his commitment to work and love for our dear nation,” Sulu-Gambari said.
The Emir noted that the deceased was a dedicated jurist who tried his best by being upright at work and a mentor to many young lawyers and judges.
“I honour his tireless dedication to the rule of law and the improvement of the Nigerian judiciary, values for which he will always be remembered.
“His professional achievements and unwavering commitment to justice have had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s legal system,” he said.
The Emir therefore expressed his condolences to the family members of the deceased, government and people of Bauchi state, the Nigerian Judicial Council and the federal government over the death of Justice Muhammad.
Sulu-Gambari prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and admit him into Al-janatul firdaus.
Governor AbdulRazaq approves perimeter fencing of Kwara Polytechnic — Rector
Gov. AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has approved the construction of perimeter fencing of the State Polytechnic, Ilorin, to ensure security of staff and students and prevent further encroachment on the institution’s land.
Dr Jimoh Mohammed, Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic disclosed this on Monday, at a news conference in Ilorin organised by the Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies, in conjunction with the Information and Publications Division of the Institution.
Mohammed said that the institution had solicited government support following the continuous encroachment of its land, stressing “it was a big challenge to the polytechnic.”
According to the rector, the perimeter fence will ensure security of lives and properties of residents within the polytechnic.
“The polytechnic was faced with the challenge of encroachment of its land, which was a big challenge that the caring governor has found a solution to.
“He is very compassionate and has given us a directive that we should ensure that no building is demolished,” Mohammed said.
Also, Mallam Saadu Salahu, Senior Special Adviser and Counsellor to the state Governor, said that the administration of Malam AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq was gradually implementing the vision of the polytechnic’s founding fathers.
“By restoring funding, modernising infrastructure, introducing digital literacy, and elevating KWARAPOLY’s status, the governor has consolidated the vision of the founding fathers and kept alive our collective hope.
“The aspiration to see the State Polytechnic transform into a University of Technology is now closer to realization than before, backed by a proven track record of institutional investment,” he said.
Expert calls for need to promote, improve geriatric care
An expert, Prof. Ibraheem AbdulRaheem, Department of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Ilorin (Unilorin) has called for the need to promote and improve geriatric care for healthy aging.
The expert made the call during the 294th Inaugural Lecture at Unilorin, on the theme; “Multifaceted Complexity of Ageing: The Need for Strengthening Geriatic Care”.
“Biological aging is the type of aging most people are familiar with; since it refers to the various ways the human body naturally changes over time.
“Geriatric epidemiology deals with the application of epidemiological techniques to the study of elderly persons.
“It is a branch of epidemiology that focuses on health, diseases, and functional status of older populations,” AbdulRaheem said.
The expert defined ageing as the time-related deterioration of the physiological functions necessary for survival and fertility, and can be classified objectively, subjectively and functionally.
“Objectively, it is a universal process that begins at birth and is specified by the chronological age criterion.
“Subjectively, it is marked by changes in behaviour and self-perception and reaction to biologic changes.
“Functionally, it refers to the capabilities of the individuals to function in society. Its process is that of growing old or developing the appearance and characteristics of old age,” he explained.
AbdulRaheem noted that the concept in the process of growing older, involving time-related physical, psychological, and social changes, often leading to a decline in physiological functions necessary for survival.
He said that the global population is aging rapidly, with the number of people aged 60 and over projected to increase significantly in the coming decades.
“This trend is particularly pronounced in Nigeria, highlighting the need for proactive planning and adaptation to ensure the well-being of older adults and sustainable development.
“The challenges facing the elderly are multidimensional, a complex interplay of multiple health conditions, psychological factors and social circumstances, rather than a simple, single-disease model.
“There is need for geriatric care that are multidisciplinary and integrated where older adults are at the centre of care models that consider social, psychological, mental and physical health needs,” the expert said.
AbdulRaheem calls for the establishment of a Training Centre for Geriatric Care, to promote healthy aging and educating healthcare professionals on the unique needs of older adults.
Court dissolves petitioner’s marriage over lack of love, care
An Area Court sitting at Centre-igboro, Ilorin on Thursday, dissolved the four-year-old Islamic marriage between Aminat Mustapha and Wahab Adeshina, following the petitioner’s insistence.
The petitioner had told the court that she was no longer interested in her marriage with her husband (respondent), following claims of lack of love and care.
While delivering ruling, the presiding Judge, Mr Toyin Aluko, held that the respondent had written to the court, accepting the divorce application made by his wife, the petitioner.
Aluko, consequently, dissolved the marriage between the parties and ordered the woman to observe one month iddah (waiting period) before she could remarry.
Meanwhile, the court granted custody of the two children of the marriage, ages one and three, to their mother.
He ordered the father to pay a monthly sum of N20,000 for the children’s feeding and maintenance.
The court also held that the respondent will be responsible for their education and healthcare.
Again, the court held that the father has unrestricted access to his children, but at reasonable time, adding that he should be notified before any decision is taken on his children.
The judge ordered the petitioner to get a copy of the judgement and send the same to the respondent.
Court grants woman custody of her son
An Area Court sitting at Centre-igboro, Ilorin, on Thursday, granted custody of a six-year-old male child to his mother, Mrs Kabirat Usman.
While delivering judgement, the presiding Judge, Mr Toyin Aluko, said that according to Islamic law, the mother had more right to custody of the child.
Aluko, consequently, granted custody of the child to the mother, on the grounds that the woman had no medical issue, was not promiscuous, and was also not medically deranged.
The court ordered the father of the child, Mr Rasheed Ishaq, to pay the sum of N15,000 as monthly upkeep for the child, adding that he will also be responsible for the child’s education and medical expenses.
The court, however, warned the mother not to take unilateral decisions without the consent of the father.
The father had earlier refused the woman custody of the child after dissolution of their marriage, insisting on keeping the child.
He had told the court that the woman lacked the financial capacity to cater to the child’s needs.
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