Mujeeedah's blog

Kwapoly MFB issues share certificates to shareholders

The Kwara state Polytechnic Microfinance Bank (MFB) has presented share certificates to shareholders of the bank, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening ownership and encouraging greater participation in the institution’s financial operations.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the insituation, Hajiya Halima Garba, on Sunday, in Ilorin.

The Manager of Kwarapoly MFB, Mr. Ismaila Abdullahi said that the bank has established robust banking operations that goes beyond operating only salary accounts.

Abdullahi explained that the Bank offers a wide range of financial services, designed to meet the evolving needs of staff and customers.

He further said that in line with global digital transformation, prospective customers could conveniently open accounts online without visiting the banking hall.

The Manager appealed to the Polytechnic Management to increase its shareholding in the bank, in line with regulatory expectations, while also soliciting greater patronage from members of staff.

He stressed that increased investment and active participation by the Polytechnic community would further strengthen the bank’s capacity to provide quality financial services.

Kwarapoly Rector, Engr. Abdul Jimoh commended the management of the Microfinance Bank, noting that the vision behind establishing the bank was gradually being realized.

Jimoh assured the Manager of Kwarapoly MFB that the Polytechnic would increase its shareholding in accordance with the directive of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The Rector called on members of staff and stakeholders to support the growth and sustainability of the bank through continuous patronage, emphasizing that the Bank belongs to the Polytechnic community.

2026/2027 session: UNILORIN admits students for MBBS programme

The University of Ilorin has assured the general public that the institution will admit new students into the MBBS programme, for the 2026/2027 academic session.

The assurance was to debunk the rumor on social media, suggesting that the University will not admit new students into the MBBS programme, for the 2026/2027 academic session.

This is contained in a statement signed by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, on Sunday, in Ilorin.

“The University wishes to state categorically that the information being bandied about on social media did not originate from the University and does not represent its official position.

“It is a misleading rumour intended to confuse prospective admission seekers and should be disregarded in its entirety.

“For emphasis, the university reiterates that it will admit students into the MBBS programme for the 2026/2027 academic session,” he said.

Akogun said that UNILORIN had already advertised for admission into the programme and Post-UTME registration is currently ongoing.

He said that the university was seriously concerned about issues relating to some of their medical graduates who were yet to be inducted.

“We wish to assure all concerned graduates that every necessary effort is being made to ensure that their induction takes place in the shortest possible time.

“We are actively engaging relevant regulatory authorities to facilitate the process and affected graduates are encouraged to remain patient and expect further updates.

The Director of Corporate Affairs also assured medical students at different levels of their programmes that the university would ensure that no student is disadvantaged.

“The academic progress and welfare of our students remain our priority, and we will continue to take proactive steps to sustain their academic strides.

“As an institution, we have the highest regard for the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) as the regulatory agency.

“We will continue to engage the council constructively to ensure that all issues are resolved amicably,” he said.

Akogun said that the management called on the general public to disregard the misinformation circulating on social media and rely only on official communication channels of the university, for accurate information.

He said that UNILORIN remains committed to excellence, stability, and the highest standards in medical education.

Emir of Ilorin mourns Ilorin Waka Icon, Batimoluwasi

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of popular Ilorin Waka singer, Alhaja Ruqayyat Batimoluwasi.

This is contained in a condolence message issued by his Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, on Saturday, in Ilorin.

The Emir described the late singer as a cultural ambassador who used her talent to promote Ilorin’s cultural heritage through Waka music.

“Batimoluwasi was a pride of Ilorin. She dedicated her life to preserving our culture and entertaining the people with moral and educational songs.

“Her voice and moral uprightness will be greatly missed,” he said.

The Chairman of Kwara Traditional Rulers commiserated with the immediate family, Waka music community, and the entire people of Ilorin Emirate over the loss.

Sulu-Gambari prayed to Almighty Allah to accept Batimoluwasi good deeds, forgive her shortcomings, and grant her Al-Jannah Firdaus.

He also prayed that Almighty Allah grant the family of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss.

Egbewole congratulates Ogunade on re-election as Kwara NIPR Chairman

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, SAN, has congratulated Mr Gabriel Ogunade on his re-election as the Chairman of the Kwara state Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

This is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, on Friday, in Ilorin.

Egbewole described the re-election of Ogunade as well-deserved, saying that it was a reward for his exemplary performance during his first term.

He also described the Chairman as a tested and accomplished public relations practitioner, pointing out that he had been a very good friend of the university.

The Vice-Chancellor, who is also a Fellow of the NIPR, said that the decision of members of the State Chapter of the professional body to entrust Ogunade with another term in office was a confirmation of his good performance during his first term.

Egbewole appreciates the support of NIPR to UNILORIN and urged Ogunade and members of his new executive committee to do more towards preserving and expanding the existing cordial relationship between them, for mutual benefits.

He assured the NIPR of the university’s continuous support and cooperation at all times.

Emir of Ilorin mourns the Oba of Ayedun

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman Kwara Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has expressed profound grief over the passing of Oba Olusegun Rotimi, the Obajisun of Ayedun.

This is contained in a condolence message issued by the Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, on Friday, in Ilorin.

The Emir described the late monarch as a revered traditional ruler, a bridge-builder, and a custodian of the rich cultural heritage of Ayedun Kingdom.

Sulu-Gambari said that the late Obajisun lived a life of service, peace, and dedication to the development of Ayedun and Kwara in general.

“On behalf of the entire members of the Kwara Council of Traditional Rulers, I extend heartfelt condolences to the people of Ayedun.

“His death is a great loss to Ayedun, Kwara, and the entire traditional institution,” Emir said.

Sulu-Gambari commiserated with the immediate and extended royal family, as well as the government and people of Kwara, over the loss.

He prayed that Almighty Allah grant the late monarch eternal rest and give the people of Ayedun the fortitude to bear the great loss.

NSCDC nabs suspects, recovers illegal firearms in Kwara

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara Command has arrested two suspects over alleged burglary, unlawful possession of firearms, and suspected cult-related activities within the Ilorin metropolis.

The State Commandant of NSCDC, Commandant Abbas Nda-Mohammed disclosed this to newsmen, on Thursday, in Ilorin.

Nda-Muhammed said that the arrest followed intelligence-led investigations, initiated after separate reports of burglary and housebreaking incidents in parts of Ilorin.

He said that people complained that unknown people were stealing their mobile phones, laptops, electronic appliances, and other valuable items.

The Commandant said that operatives of the Command’s Tracking Unit tracked and arrested one Ajiboye Oluwatobi, popularly known as “Kush-T,” at a suspected criminal hideout in Danialu Area, Gaa-Akanbi, Ilorin.

He said that further intelligence-driven operations led to the arrest of Dayo Sesan, also known as “Sexy.”

“During the operation, officers recovered two locally fabricated firearms and one live cartridge from his possession.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were allegedly linked to a criminal syndicate, suspected of perpetrating burglary and related criminal activities within Tanke, Pipeline, and Gaa-Akanbi Areas of Ilorin.

“The suspects also identified themselves as members of the Aiye Confraternity and investigations are ongoing to establish the full extent of their criminal activities, and identify other members of the syndicate,” Commandant said.

Nda-Muhammed said that some exhibits were recovered during the operation, such as two locally fabricated firearms and one live cartridge.

He said that the suspects would be charged before a court of competent jurisdiction upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Commandant assured the public that NSCDC remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding lives and property through intelligence-led operations, proactive crime prevention and sustained collaboration with sister security agencies.

Nda-Muhammed urged residents of Kwara to continue providing timely, credible, and tangible information that will further strengthen ongoing efforts to combat crime and enhance public safety across the state.

NAVELJ inaugurates new executives in Kwara

National League of Veteran Journalists (NALVEJ) has sworn in new executives to run the affairs of its association for three years.

The event was held at the NUJ Press Center, Offa Road, Ilorin.

Sworn-in are the Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Tunde Akanbi , Vice Chairman Chief Olaolu Ajayi , Secretary Christy Doyin Mbaka , Assistant Secretary, Reverend Felix Adebowale Ajide , and Treasurer Mallam Umar Sule Sabi .

Others are Financial secretary Alhaja Silifat Jumoke Adeyemi, Welfare Officer, Otunba Gbenga Olarioye and Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Abdullah Olesin

In his acceptance speech , the Chairman, Alhaji Muhammad Tunde Akanbi promised to ensure transparency, accountability and uphold the constitution of the league at all times.

He appealed to Nigeria politicians to emulate the process used by the league to ensure free, fair and credible elections next year.

Alhaji Akanbi further called on the government to choose their members to occupy the vacant political positions in the state in order to bring their wealth of experience to bear in moving the state forward.

In their goodwill messages, the Kwara State Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju who spoke through the Director Information Services, Mr Ademola Olarewaju, former Commissioner for Sports in the state , Comrade Ahmed Adio, General managers of Harmony FM, Hajia Binta Mora,Unilorin FM, Mallam Idris Aloma, Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, Kwara State Chapter, Hajia Bashirat Bola Ayantola-Bello commended the league for the peaceful conduct of the election and expressed their readiness to partner with the new executives in order to ensure their success.

Earlier, the Secretary of the Credentials Committee for NAVELJ, Hajia Bilikis Oladimeji on behalf of the Committee said the New Executives were elected on-opposed and will serve a second term of three years in Office.

PRNigeria Founder Heads to Appeal Court over Dismissal of N1 Billion Suit Against NIPSS

The founder of PRNigeria and Chief Executive Officer of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), Malam Yushau A. Shuaib, has vowed to challenge the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja dismissing his ₦1 billion suit against the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, over his withdrawal from the prestigious Senior Executive Course (SEC) 47.

Justice Binta Fatima Nyako, in a judgment delivered on Monday, dismissed Shuaib’s suit, holding that the Institute acted within its disciplinary powers after finding that he had breached its confidentiality rules.

The court held that Shuaib had, by apologising on behalf of PRNigeria over a publication considered offensive by the Institute, effectively admitted wrongdoing.

Justice Nyako further ruled that the public relations practitioner could not claim he was denied fair hearing, having appeared before NIPSS’s disciplinary committee to respond to allegations against him before disciplinary action was taken.

The judge also held that Shuaib was bound by the oath of secrecy and confidentiality he subscribed to upon admission into the Senior Executive Course and was therefore obligated to comply with the Institute’s rules throughout the programme.

However, reacting to the judgment, Shuaib expressed disappointment with the court’s findings, insisting that the decision failed to distinguish between his personal conduct and the editorial independence of PRNigeria.

He maintained that before resuming at NIPSS, he had formally disengaged from the day-to-day editorial management of PRNigeria by handing over operational responsibilities in compliance with the Institute’s admission requirements.

According to him, it was therefore unjust to hold him personally liable for publications by an independent media organisation that he neither authored nor edited during the period of his participation in the course.

Shuaib also faulted the judgment for not making pronouncements on what he described as one of the central issues in the suit—the alleged unlawful access to his private email communications.

He said he was surprised that the court held the issue was not properly placed before it despite his contention that his constitutional right to privacy had been violated.

Declaring his intention to continue the legal battle, the PRNigeria founder said the judgment would immediately be challenged at the Court of Appeal.

“While I respect the judgment of the Federal High Court, I firmly believe there are substantial constitutional and legal issues that deserve appellate review. In the interest of justice, fairness, and the protection of fundamental rights, we shall be approaching the Court of Appeal without delay,” he said.

Shuaib instituted the suit on July 7, 2025, after NIPSS withdrew him from the Senior Executive Course 47, seeking declarations that the Institute acted unlawfully, unconstitutionally and in breach of his fundamental rights.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1329/2025, filed by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Yunus Abdulsalam, Shuaib sought ₦1 billion in general, special and aggravated damages for emotional trauma and reputational injury allegedly suffered as a result of his withdrawal from the programme.

He also sought ₦100 million as litigation costs, having earlier served a pre-action notice on June 16, 2025, to the Director-General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, which he claimed received no response.

Among the reliefs sought, the plaintiff asked the court to set aside his withdrawal from SEC 47, order his reinstatement with full rights and privileges, and restrain NIPSS from further acts of harassment, intimidation or cyberbullying.

In his originating summons, Shuaib raised eight constitutional and legal questions for determination, arguing that publications by PRNigeria, an independent media organisation, could not lawfully be attributed to him as personal misconduct.

He also asked the court to determine whether NIPSS violated his constitutional right to privacy under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution by allegedly accessing and using his private email correspondence without his consent.

Shuaib further argued that disciplinary measures taken against him over professional opinions expressed in an editorial amounted to a violation of his right to freedom of expression guaranteed under Section 39 of the Constitution.

He equally alleged that his exclusion from official communication platforms, denial of participation in the Institute’s international study tour despite payment of ₦18.3 million course fees, and eventual withdrawal from the programme amounted to discrimination, breach of contract and denial of fair hearing.

In a 40-paragraph supporting affidavit, Shuaib stated that he was nominated by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) to participate in SEC 47, with the nomination subsequently approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He informed the court that he complied with all admission requirements, including formally handing over the management of his media organisation before resuming at the Institute.

According to him, his ordeal began on March 24, 2025, when he received a query over a PRNigeria publication titled “NIPSS Goes Digital; Launches Paperless Platform after Submitting Landmark Report to President Tinubu.”

He maintained that he neither authored nor edited the report, noting that similar stories had been published by several other media organisations.

He further alleged that on April 25, 2025, NIPSS queried him over an internal editorial email concerning an opinion article titled “Understanding the Blue in the Blue Economy,” which he described as a professional reflection that contained no classified or confidential information.

Shuaib also claimed that the withdrawal letter dated June 2, 2025, was addressed to the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations without being officially served on him personally.

Despite the setback at the Federal High Court, Shuaib said he remains determined to pursue the matter through the appellate process, expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal would comprehensively examine the constitutional, contractual and privacy issues raised in the case.

Senator Mustapha distributes N1.5bn farm inputs to boost food security

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Production Services and Rural Development, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has on Monday, flagged off the distribution of farm inputs worth N1.5billion to smallholder farmers across Kwara.

The inputs distributed were 5000 bags of NPK fertilisers, 2,500 bags of urea fertiliser, 1,000 knapsack sprayers, 250 power tillers, 500 water pump machines aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and enhancing food security.

Beneficiaries of the empowerment programme included members of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Rice Farmers Association, Kwara State Association of Fish Farmers, and the AMANA Farmers Association of Nigeria.

Also, the Nigerian Women for Agricultural Progress, the Nigeria Association of Women in Agriculture, the Agric Section of the Kwara State Chamber of Commerce, individual farmers, and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) who were engaged in farming across the senatorial district.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, Senator Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central Senatorial District, said the intervention forms part of his commitment to supporting farmers and strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector.

The Senator, ably represented by the Director General of his constituency office, Alhaji Adebayo Ambali, said that the programme was designed to ensure that farmers have timely access to essential inputs needed to improve crop yields and increase food production.

He noted that the intervention complements the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to achieve national food security through increased agricultural productivity.

Senator Mustapha urged beneficiaries to make judicious use of the farm inputs, particularly the fertilisers and equipment, to maximise output during the current farming season.

He reaffirmed his commitment to implementing programmes and initiatives that would improve the livelihoods of his constituents.

The Chairman of All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), in Kwara, Engr. Shuaibu Ajibola Salman appreciated Senator Saliu Mustapha for making the best use of his office as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture to constantly support farmers across Kwara State.

He described the intervention as timely, noting that access to quality farm inputs would help farmers increase production and contribute to efforts aimed at addressing food insecurity.

The State Chairman of Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), Mallam Soliu Mohammed, in his remarks, extolled Senator Saliu Mustapha for consistently carrying rice farmers along in the distribution of farm inputs.

He said the lawmaker had demonstrated genuine commitment to the development of agriculture in the state through regular interventions targeted at farmers.

The distribution exercise is the sixth phase of Senator Mustapha’s agricultural support programme and is expected to benefit thousands of farmers across the four local government areas of Kwara Central Senatorial District.

Group declares full support for Gov AbdulRazaq’s administration

The Kwara state chapter of the Association of Professional Printers of Nigeria (ASSPPON) has pledged its full support for the APC-led administration in the state.

Led by its State President, Eld. Adebola Femi Dada, the association, paid a courtesy visit to the House Leader, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. Oba Magaji Abdulkadir.

During the visit, ASSPPON commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for his remarkable efforts in repositioning Kwara through strategic economic reforms, infrastructure development, urban renewal, and policies that continue to create opportunities for residents.

The association highlighted key interventions such as Kwarapreneur, youth and women empowerment programmes, support for artisans and SMEs, improved business environment, investment drive, road rehabilitation, expansion of public infrastructure, and initiatives aimed at boosting local productivity and livelihoods across the state.

Speaking after the meeting, Eld. Dada said, “We are proud of the Governor’s work. ASSPPON is 100% behind the APC Government under Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON.”

Hon. Oba Magaji received the delegation and appreciated the association for its support, noting that the collective efforts of stakeholders remain vital in sustaining Kwara’s growth, development, and economic progress.