Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole (SAN), has congratulated the Chairman/Chief Executive of BUA Group, Alhaji AbdulSamad Rabiu, CON, on his 65th birthday.

Prof. Egbewole, in a statement issued by the University’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, described the Kano-born business magnate as a blessing to Nigeria and humanity.

The Vice Chancellor noted that Alhaji Rabiu’s hard work, patriotism, and spirit of giving deserve to be emulated in order for the nation to produce more of those who will always think beyond their personal interests.

Prof. Egbewole, who lauded the prominent businessman’s numerous contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria over the years, specifically thanked Alhaji Rabiu for his relentless support to several educational institutions in the country, adding that the University of Ilorin, in particular, would continue to be grateful to him for the 3,000-seater amphitheater he is currently building at the University.

Prof. Egbewole wished Alhaji Rabiu many more years of sound health, happiness, and continuous service to humanity.

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Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr. Ola Olukoyede, has called on Nigerian youths to harness their talents and energy for ventures that bring honour to the nation rather than engaging in social vices, including cybercrime, which ultimately result in regret and disgrace.

Speaking at a youth empowerment programme in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, organised by Faitheroic Generation (FHG), Olukoyede warned that criminal activities, particularly internet fraud, might appear lucrative at first but always end in tears for perpetrators.

Faitheroic Generation is a national youth empowerment organisation dedicated to building financially independent young Nigerians through freelancing, digital skills, and ethical network marketing in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“There is dignity in labour. Shortcuts through cybercrime may seem attractive, but they destroy futures and reputations. Nigeria’s youths must rise above these temptations and use their potential to build a country they can be proud of,” Olukoyede said.

Addressing over 400 youths, the EFCC boss, who was represented by Ayodele Babatunde, Head, Public Affairs Department of the EFCC, Ilorin Zonal Directorate, stressed that unemployment should never be an excuse for criminality.

“We understand the challenges young people face, but cybercrime is not a solution. You have gifts and skills that can thrive legitimately. Channel them into productive ventures, and you will enjoy lasting fulfilment,” he added.

The EFCC Chair further urged the youths to partner with the EFCC in its mission to restore Nigeria’s global image, noting that the activities of internet fraudsters had brought severe damage to the country’s reputation at home and abroad.

He concluded with a rousing slogan: “Integrity is Strength, Hardwork is Wealth, Accountability is power – Say No to Corruption!”.

In his lecture titled “Staying Safe Online and Preventing Cybercrime”, an Assistant Commander of the EFCC, James Allison, who heads the Advance Fee Fraud Section of the Ilorin Directorate, admonished the youths to be wary of becoming tools for money laundering or falling prey to fraudulent online investment scams.

“Fraudsters are increasingly exploiting people’s lack of understanding of virtual assets,” Allison warned. “They promise outrageous returns on investments, build convincing but fake trading platforms, and disappear with victims’ funds once they succeed.”

He urged participants to research thoroughly before investing in any platform, verify regulatory compliance, and avoid unsolicited offers that sound too good to be true.

“Always crosscheck investment opportunities with credible sources, ask the right questions, and never share your bank accounts for dubious transactions. Once you allow criminals to use your account, you become a complicit partner in crime,” he explained.

Allison’s lecture underscored practical steps to stay safe online, from protecting personal data and using secure digital platforms to reporting suspicious activities through the EFCC’s Eagle Eye App.

The programme ended with an interactive session where youths asked questions about legitimate business opportunities and ways to work with the EFCC in combating cybercrime.

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Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Government has flagged off the distribution of nutritional and educational palliative for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) in the three Senatorial Districts of the State.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony over the weekend at Government High School, Adeta, Ilorin, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief (Mrs) Opeyemi Oluwakemi Afolashade, stated that the initiative was not just a distribution exercise but a deliberate effort by the state government to invest in the future of vulnerable children, as well as reduce the risk of malnutrition among them.

The Commissioner said: “Orphans and vulnerable children represent a sensitive demography that is often neglected, yet full of potential. The nutritional and educational support palliative includes: Rice, Beans, Garri, Palm Oil, Vegetable Oil, School Uniforms, Exercise books, Sandals, School Bags, Socks, Writing materials and PTA Levies.”

According to her, the palliatives presented are tools of dignity and empowerment, which is a reflection of the government’s resolve to reach the nooks and crannies of the state with impactful interventions that will help everyone achieve their full potential in no time.

Commending AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his people-centred policies and inclusive governance, she admonished parents to be more committed to the upbringing of their wards, as the state does not tolerate any form of child labour, abuse or abandonment.

The Alangua of Adewole, Alhaji Yusuf Yakubu Adewole, commended the Governor for his unwavering commitment to the state and prayed for God’s continued guidance upon him.

The Principal of the Government Secondary School, Adeta, Alhaji Issa Akanbi, appreciated the Governor for extending such kind gesture to the needy and for providing succour to them.

In attendance were the Director, Personnel, Finance and Supply, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Ubandawaki; Director, Child, Hajia Idiat Alabi; Deputy Director, Women, Hajia Adebanke Akanbi; Headmaster of Adeta Primary School, Mallam Yusuf Kayode; teachers; parents; beneficiaries; and staff of the Ministry.

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