Uncategorized

Ex-Oyo First Lady Champions Support for Visually Impaired Pupils

Published

7 months ago

February 25, 2026

Our Reporter

Calls for Collective Responsibility

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

The widow of former Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, Chief (Mrs) Oluwakemi Alao-Akala, has urged Nigerians to embrace a culture of consistent giving to the less privileged, insisting that physical disability should never be mistaken for inability.

She made the call during a humanitarian visit to the Nigeria Training Centre for the Blind and the Oyo State Special Basic School in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area of Oyo State.

During the outreach, Mrs Alao-Akala donated foodstuffs and essential supplies, including bags of rice, beans, maize, kegs of palm oil, spaghetti, sanitary pads, (cartons) toiletries, typing sheets and cardboard materials for learning.

While explaining that the gesture forms part of her routine monthly interventions, she said: “I do things like this every month. I just like to make life a little easier for people. Any community, any association, anybody who needs help — I feel I should help everybody, even though it’s not always possible.”

She disclosed that the school management had earlier forwarded a list of pressing needs. “Before I came, I got a list from them of what they needed, and we are here to do our bit. They need a lot of things, and whatever I can do, I will continue to do,” she said, adding that plans were underway to provide uniforms for the pupils after tailors take their measurements.

Reflecting on her late husband’s legacy, she noted that public office holders would one day give account of their stewardship before God. “Whatever position we find ourselves in, at the end of the day, we are going to be accountable. God will ask us, what did you do when you were there?” she said.

She also prayed for political leaders across the country, saying, “It’s a lot of work to lead. We have been there before. My prayer is that God will teach our leaders and give them wisdom. With our prayers, God will help them to deliver for the people.”

Addressing the visually impaired pupils, she encouraged them to remain confident and speak positively about their future. “They should confess positively about their situation. There is power in the tongue. When you speak positively, it works. Let us say every day, ‘God bless Nigeria, God bless Oyo State,’ and pray for our leaders,” she advised, urging women in particular to speak uplifting words over their homes and children.

Meanwhile, the Headmistress of Oyo State Special Basic School, Mrs Oyedokun Janet Olabimpe, appealed to the Oyo State Government to increase funding to enable the institution cater adequately for its 82 primary pupils, many of whom are on boarding facilities.

“Our pupils are in the boarding house, and some of them don’t have anybody to cater for them. It is only what the government provides that we use, and we are managing it,” she said.

She explained that running a special school requires additional attention and resources. “You know you are dealing with the visual impairments here. Their administration is quite different. How you direct and give attention to them is not the same as in regular schools,” she noted.

According to her, funds allocated to the school are often stretched thin due to minor projects and urgent needs. “The money given to us cannot cover everything. Whenever we have little projects to execute, we still have to withdraw from the same allocation. That is why it is not enough to cater for the pupils,” she said, pleading with government to review the allocation upward.

A special educator at the school, Mr Ogunleke Simeon, said the institution, located within the same compound as the training centre, runs primary, secondary and vocational sections with a population fluctuating between 80 and 98 learners.

“Our main objective is to train the visually impaired on how to read and write in Braille, type, use computers and navigate their environment safely. Some are also integrated into craft workshops where they learn skills with their hands,” he said.

He explained that the school admits both those born blind and those who lost their sight later in life. “For those who became blind after going through primary or secondary school, all hope is not lost. They only need to come and learn Braille and typing. After that, they can register for examinations like WAEC and NECO under the visually impaired section,” he stated.

Tracing the history of the institution, he noted that its vocational arm dates back to 1958, while the formal school for the blind was established in 1977 after discovering the academic potential of some young learners.

“Since then, we have produced graduates who now hold master’s degrees in Law, lecturers, teachers and self-employed professionals,” he said, stressing that “disability is not inability. There is ability in every disability.”

Despite the successes recorded, he lamented the high cost of specialised materials such as Braille machines, slates and stylus, guide canes and talking computer software. He also decried an abandoned three-classroom block left at lintel level for about 15 years.

On feeding, he revealed that the state government provides N300 per child daily for three meals. “In the present economic situation, it is not enough. We appeal to philanthropists to support us with food items like rice, beans, spaghetti and palm oil to augment what government is providing,” he said.

He called on well-meaning Nigerians to see the institution as fertile ground for investment in human capital. “People should see this place as a mission ground where they can sow into the lives of these children. In the nearest future, they will be proud to see them become useful to themselves, their families and the society at large,” he added.

Uncategorized

Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

16 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

Uncategorized

FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

16 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

Uncategorized

2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

16 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.