OYO UNITY CUP BANGER: ENCOURAGING GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL TALENTS

Every society that wants to move forward depends on its youths. The youths are called the engine room of the society because, just like an engine powers a car, the youths power the nation with their strength, energy, ideas, and creativity. If the engine is weak, the car cannot move. If the youths are neglected, the society cannot develop.

*Who Are The Youths?*

The youths are young people, usually between the ages of 15 and 35. They are the most active population in any community. They are students, apprentices, young workers, young farmers, and young mothers and fathers.

*Why Are Youths The Engine Room Of The Society?*

1. *Source of Strength and Labour:* They do most of the physical work - in farms, markets, construction, and factories.

2. *Source of New Ideas:* Youths are more open to new technology, innovation, and change. They bring fresh ideas that can solve old problems.

3. *Agents of Development:* They are the future leaders, teachers, doctors, and presidents. What they learn today will decide what the society becomes tomorrow.

4. *Defenders of Society:* In times of need, youths are the ones who volunteer, protect, and rebuild their communities.

5. *Custodians of Culture:* They are the ones who can keep good cultural values and also blend them with modern life.

When youths are idle, unemployed, or involved in crime and drug abuse, the whole society suffers. That is why it is very important to engage and empower them positively.

The BOMVN Agenda

Football is more than just a game, especially in Nigeria. It is a language that every youth understands, whether in Lagos, Ogbomoso, or a small village. It is the cheapest and most powerful tool to gather and empower youths.

The Rationale Behind the BOMVN Move 

*1. Talent Discovery and Development:*

Many great stars like Jay-Jay Okocha, Kanu Nwankwo, and Victor Osimhen started from dusty street fields. By organizing inter-street, inter-school, and inter-community competitions (like Principal's Cup, Community Shield), we can discover raw talents and connect them to academies.

*2. Job Creation and Economic Empowerment:*

Football does not only empower the 11 players on the pitch. It creates jobs for coaches, referees, jersey makers, photographers, commentators, and event organizers. A youth who may not be a good player can become a good coach or referee.

*3. Education and Scholarships:*

Football can be used to keep youths in school. A program can be made where a student must pass his subjects to be allowed to play in the school team. Many youths have gotten scholarships to secondary schools and universities in Nigeria and abroad through football.

*4. Reducing Crime and Social Vices:*

An idle mind is the devil's workshop. When youths are busy training in the evening three times a week, they have less time for cultism, internet fraud (yahoo-yahoo), and drug abuse. The football field teaches discipline, teamwork, respect for rules, and time management.

*5. Promoting Peace and Unity:*

Football brings together Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Christian, and Muslim youths to play on the same team. In the grassroots, it can settle community quarrels and promote peace.

Signed:

THE BIMBO-OPEN MANDATE VOLUNTEER NETWORK 

(BOMVN)

₦70,000 Transport Support: Adewole Adebayo Accuses Tinubu of ‘Vote Buying by Trick’

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has criticised the Tinubu-led administration’s proposed ₦70,000 transport intervention for Nigerian workers, describing it as a political gimmick designed to influence voters ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Adebayo, in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by his campaign’s Chief Media and Communications Adviser, Comrade Mark Adebayo, questioned the sincerity of the Federal Government’s intervention, arguing that a temporary 90-day relief package would not address the underlying economic challenges facing Nigerian workers.

He described the intervention as a “Greek gift,” alleging that it was intended to win public support without providing lasting solutions to the country’s economic difficulties.

The SDP presidential candidate accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration of adopting short-term measures rather than implementing sustainable economic policies capable of improving the living conditions of Nigerians.

“This fire-brigade approach to governance is proof that the APC administration completely lacks sustainable ideas for Nigeria’s development,” the statement quoted him as saying.

He argued that instead of investing in enduring infrastructure and creating conditions for sustainable wealth generation, the government had resorted to temporary interventions that, according to him, would leave Nigerians vulnerable to economic hardship after the election period.

“Instead of building enduring infrastructure and creating systemic wealth, they resort to confusionist actions and short-term bribes that only serve to further entrench Nigerians in multidimensional poverty once the election cycle is over,” he said.

Adebayo also pledged to introduce comprehensive economic reforms if elected president, promising policies aimed at improving workers’ welfare, strengthening the economy and increasing citizens’ purchasing power.

According to him, his administration would prioritise a sustainable living wage for Nigerian workers rather than relying on temporary financial interventions to cushion the effects of economic hardship.

He maintained that a comprehensive overhaul of the economy was necessary to reverse the country’s economic difficulties and establish a system that would enable citizens to enjoy improved living standards.

The SDP flagbearer further expressed confidence in his proposed development blueprint, titled “Farewell to Poverty and Insecurity,” which he said contained the policies required to transform Nigeria’s socioeconomic fortunes.

He pledged that his proposed administration would focus on sustainable development, improved security and lasting prosperity for Nigerians.

“I have the best plans for the total and complete socioeconomic transformation of Nigeria, and I am the best prepared and capable among all the presidential candidates,” the statement quoted Adebayo as saying.

The campaign reiterated its position that Nigeria required long-term economic planning and sustainable development policies rather than temporary interventions to address the challenges confronting workers and other citizens.

Lagos Disburses Grants, Equipment to Over 100 Small Businesses

The Lagos State Government has provided grants, work tools and productive equipment to more than100 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the state as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots entrepreneurship, boost productivity and promote job creation.

The intervention was announced by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs Nana-Hauwa Adeeyo, at the 2026 MSME Day Celebration, Awards and Grant Presentation Ceremony held at NECA House, Alausa, Ikeja.

Adeeyo disclosed that the beneficiaries were selected from the five IBILE divisions of Lagos State, reflecting the government's commitment to ensuring that enterprise development initiatives reach business owners across different communities.

She explained that the initiative was designed to translate the state government's enterprise development policies into practical support that would enable small businesses to expand their operations, improve productivity and achieve long-term sustainability.

Speaking on the theme, “Empowering MSMEs Through Innovation and Sustainable Industrial Development,” Adeeyo described MSMEs as critical drivers of employment, local production, household income and economic growth.

She stressed that supporting the growth of small businesses was essential to building a more productive, competitive and resilient Lagos economy.

According to her, the grants and equipment were intended to help beneficiaries increase output, improve product quality, enhance service delivery and expand their businesses.

She, however, urged the beneficiaries to deploy the resources responsibly, prioritising investments that would deliver sustainable business growth and create employment opportunities.

The governor's aide also highlighted the Lagos State Access to Finance for MSMEs through Cooperatives (LASMECO) Scheme, which is backed by a ₦10 billion financing framework, as one of the government's key initiatives for improving access to capital.

She explained that the scheme leverages cooperative structures to promote savings, resource pooling and improved access to financing and business opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Adeeyo further identified the Lagos State Export Readiness Programme as a strategic platform for preparing local enterprises to access wider markets.

She said the programme focuses on improving product quality, standardisation, certification and packaging to strengthen the competitiveness of Lagos-based businesses and enhance their participation in global value chains.

On industrial development, she noted that the Lagos State Industrial Policy was designed to strengthen local production and supply chains while creating opportunities for MSMEs to participate in industrial growth as manufacturers, suppliers and service providers.

She added that the state government's Ease of Doing Business agenda and One-Stop-Shop initiative were aimed at simplifying administrative procedures, improving access to public services and creating a more business-friendly environment for entrepreneurs and investors.

Adeeyo encouraged business owners to embrace innovation, digital technology, sound financial management and sustainable production practices to remain competitive in an increasingly challenging business environment.

She emphasised that government interventions must translate into measurable improvements in productivity, business expansion and employment generation.

The governor's aide also underscored the importance of inclusive enterprise development, particularly for women, young people and vulnerable groups, calling for stronger collaboration among government agencies, financial institutions, development partners and private-sector stakeholders.

According to her, such partnerships would help expand entrepreneurs' access to finance, technical skills, markets and productive assets, thereby strengthening the capacity of MSMEs to contribute meaningfully to economic development.

The event attracted government officials, industry leaders, financial institutions, development partners, business associations and entrepreneurs, who gathered to celebrate outstanding business performance and explore strategies for sustainable MSME development.

The initiative underscores the Lagos State Government's commitment to strengthening grassroots enterprises, promoting local industrial development and positioning small businesses as major contributors to job creation and economic resilience.

ADRON HOMES INAUGURATES NEW AHPORA EXECUTIVES AT TREASURE PARK & GARDENS PHASE 2 EXTENSION

Adron Homes has inaugurated new executives of the Adron Homes Property Owners and Residents Associations (AHPORA) for the Uptown and Downtown zones of Treasure Park & Gardens Phase 2 Extension, as part of efforts to strengthen the relationship between the company and residents.

L-R: Mrs. Augustina Chuks, Chairman uptown zone, Mrs Adenike Ajobo, MD Adron Homes, Sir, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing KOF, Chairman/GCEO Adron Homes Properties Limited, HRH, Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo, Otete III, Odemo of Isara Remo, Alhaji Akeem Segun Koletowo, Chairman, Downtown Zone at the inauguration and swearing in ceremony of Adron Homes & Property Owners & Residents Association  (AHPORA) EXCOs of Treasure Park & Gardens Phase 2, Downtown Estate, Shimawa Ogun State, on Sunday, 18th October, 2026 held at the Event Ground of the Estate.

The inauguration gives residents a platform to raise concerns, share ideas and engage with Adron Homes through elected representatives. The executives are expected to help monitor estate-related matters and ensure that issues affecting property owners receive attention.

The event, hosted by Adron Homes on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at Downtown Estate, Simawa, had HRH Alaiyeluwa Oba Peter Oluwole Ogunbayo (Otete III), Odemo of Isara Remo, as Royal Father of the Day.

In the Uptown Zone, Mrs. Augustina Chuks was inaugurated as Chairman, while Mrs. Ogunba-Ojo Hutawa Aderonke emerged as Secretary General. Hon. Mrs. Wale Fayemi and Mr. Lateef Eniola were represented at the ceremony by their daughter and wife, respectively. For the Downtown Zone, Alhaji Akeem Segun Koletowo was inaugurated as Chairman, with Mr. Alex O. Ohanwadi as Secretary General.

The Chairman/GCEO of Adron Group, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuel King KOF, said the ceremony marked a new stage in the life of the estate, which residents had turned from unoccupied land into a thriving neighbourhood. “We are not simply inaugurating executives. We are acknowledging that Downtown Estate has reached another stage in its journey,” he said.

He explained that while a developer provides the framework, infrastructure and vision, the people who live in an estate ultimately determine its character. Residents and property owners, he said, are “not spectators” to its development. “You are the story,” he added.

Sir Aare Adetola charged the new executives to see their offices as a responsibility owed first to residents. He urged them to be leaders who “listen without losing direction, speak without creating unnecessary conflict, and disagree without destroying relationships.”

He described the estate’s reputation, peace, orderliness and the relationships among residents as assets that affect the value of everyone’s investment. “The success of an estate cannot be manufactured from the developer’s office. There must also be ownership from the people who live here,” he said.

Also speaking, the Managing Director, Adenike Ajobo, described the challenges Adron Homes has faced in the course of its growth as part of the process of building a stronger organisation. 

She described Adron Homes as an unstoppable movement and called on homeowners, property investors and residents to unite under AHPORA. “The only thing we are clamouring for, agitating for, and campaigning for is for all of us to come together to grow our estate together through AHPORA,” she stated.

The new executives will be a link between residents and Adron Homes, communicating residents’ needs, following up on estate-related concerns and promoting accountability in matters concerning the estate.

A couple of home owners who pleaded anonymity, were recognised for their contributions to the security and upkeep of the estate.They donated a motorcycle and security gadgets for use by the estate’s security officials, to support their movement and strengthen patrols. They also supported the painting of the estate’s gate post.

Beyond the motorcycle and security gadgets, They also supported the estate’s security men, providing them foodstuff and additional security gadgets. Reflecting the important role residents can play in keeping an estate safe and well maintained.

Sir Aare Adetola expressed hope that when another set of leaders eventually takes their place, they will be able to say of the current executives: “They left Downtown better than they met it.”

‎ADRON BOSS EMMANUELKING HAILS OSIBODU’S ROYAL ELEVATION, SAYS BOBAJIRO TITLE FITS HIS LEGACY ‎

*Describes honour as recognition of excellence, humility and community service

‎

The Chairman of Adron Homes and Properties, Sir Aare Adetola Emmanuelking KOF, has congratulated prominent businessman, Anthony Osibodu, on his coronation as the Bobajiro of Ilishan-Remo, describing the prestigious traditional honour as a fitting recognition of his accomplishments, sterling character and commitment to community development.

‎Emmanuelking, who is also the Borokini of Ilishan-Remo, extended his goodwill message to Osibodu as the coronation coincided with his birthday, making the occasion a double celebration of personal achievement and traditional recognition.

‎In his congratulatory message, the Adron Homes chairman noted that Osibodu’s elevation to the revered traditional institution reflected the respect he had earned through business excellence, exemplary conduct and sustained engagement with his community.

‎“When a man spends his years building a name of honour, there comes a time when honour itself rises to meet him,” Emmanuelking stated.

‎He praised Osibodu for building an impressive business profile with an international presence while remaining humble, approachable and firmly rooted in family values.

‎According to him, Osibodu’s influence extends beyond his professional accomplishments, as his personal qualities, accessibility and consideration for others have earned him admiration across different spheres of life.

‎Emmanuelking also highlighted Osibodu’s leadership roles as Asiwaju of the Osibodu family and President of The Ilishan Club, describing them as evidence of his dedication to family unity, communal development and the preservation of cultural heritage.

‎He stressed that effective leadership goes beyond the prestige of titles, requiring integrity, wisdom, maturity and the ability to inspire confidence and unite people around shared aspirations.

‎The Adron Homes chairman further observed that Osibodu’s coronation carries profound significance, as it strengthens his connection to his ancestral roots while placing greater responsibility on him to contribute to the development and well-being of Ilishan-Remo.

H‎e expressed confidence that the new Bobajiro would bring dignity, wisdom and a strong sense of service to his traditional responsibilities, building on the values that have distinguished his personal and professional journey.

‎The coincidence of the coronation with Osibodu’s birthday, Emmanuelking noted, makes the celebration particularly memorable, offering an opportunity to reflect on his achievements while looking forward to greater accomplishments in the years ahead.

‎He prayed for God's continued protection, sound health, wisdom and prosperity for Osibodu, expressing hope that his new age would usher in greater opportunities, renewed strength and fulfilment in his personal life, business endeavours and community service.

‎Emmanuelking also wished the Bobajiro many more years of impactful leadership, philanthropy and meaningful contributions to humanity, expressing optimism that his new traditional position would further inspire him to serve his people and advance the interests of Ilishan-Remo.

‎He concluded by congratulating Osibodu on both his coronation and birthday, wishing him a rewarding new chapter marked by greater accomplishments, enduring respect and continued service to his community.

Stop Disparaging Ooni’s Media Director, Palace Clarifies ₦4m Media Support Donation Was Meant for Iyalaje Oodua’s Media Team, Not General Media Practitioners — Olafare

The Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Ile-Ife, Otunba Moses Olafare, has dismissed reports alleging that the Palace withheld or diverted a ₦4 million media support fund reportedly meant for journalists and online media practitioners who covered the 2026 Olojo Festival.

Olafare, through a statement issued on Wednesday by the Senior Media Officer of the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal, explained that the ₦4 million donation and bags of rice referenced in some online publications were specifically provided by the Arole Oodua Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, to the media team of Iyalaje Oodua, Princess Toyin Kolade.

According to the statement, the gesture was made in appreciation of the media team, which has been independently sponsored by the Iyalaje Oodua for more than a decade and has consistently accompanied her to Palace-related engagements and activities.

The clarification followed reports and online commentaries suggesting that the ₦4 million was a general media package intended for journalists and online platforms accredited to cover the 2026 Olojo Festival.

Olafare stressed that the Media Directorate neither received nor had custody of the said ₦4 million, noting that it therefore could not have withheld, diverted or misappropriated funds that were not in its possession.

He explained that the donation should not be confused with the separate media appreciation package administered by the Media Directorate for journalists accredited to cover the Olojo Festival.

“The ₦4 million donation was specifically for the media team of Iyalaje Oodua, Princess Toyin Kolade, in appreciation of their longstanding support and coverage of her activities. It was not a general media package for all accredited journalists,” the statement clarified.

The Director further stated that the Palace recognises the important role played by journalists, photographers, videographers and other media professionals in documenting the Olojo Festival and projecting the cultural heritage of Ile-Ife.

He added that journalists who were duly accredited by the Media Directorate to cover the festival had been attended to with monetary appreciation and other benefits based on the arrangements made for accredited media practitioners.

Olafare, however, urged any accredited journalist who believes he or she has not received the appropriate benefit to approach the Media Directorate with proof of accreditation for proper verification.

“Anyone who feels that he or she has not received the benefit due to them is encouraged to reach out to the Directorate with proof of accreditation. Such cases will be properly looked into and, where applicable, the individual will be duly attended to,” the statement said.

The Media Director also expressed concern over what he described as misinformation contained in some online publications and commentaries, which he said portrayed Palace officials as having withheld funds allegedly meant for media practitioners.

He urged members of the public and media professionals to seek clarification from the appropriate authorities at the Ooni’s Palace before publishing reports concerning official activities, financial arrangements or media engagements.

Olafare reaffirmed the Palace’s commitment to maintaining a cordial and professional relationship with the media, stressing that accredited journalists covering Palace activities would continue to be treated with fairness and professionalism.

He also commended media professionals for their contributions to the successful coverage of the 2026 Olojo Festival and their efforts towards promoting Ile-Ife as a major centre of Yoruba history, culture and heritage.

Story By

Tope Eluyefa 

Independence: Nigeria’s Future Remains Bright, Youths Must Keep Hope Alive- Adebisi

IBADAN — As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Deputy Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly and representative of Ibadan Southwest State Constituency 1, Hon. Yusuf O. Adebisi, has congratulated Nigerians, party leaders, youths and ward executives across his constituency, calling for renewed hope, unity and commitment to the development of the country.

In his Independence Day message, Adebisi extended his greetings to the leadership and members of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1, particularly ward executives, youths and other stakeholders who, according to him, continue to contribute to the growth and development of their communities. 

The lawmaker urged Nigerians, especially young people, to continue believing in the Nigerian project despite the challenges confronting the country, stressing that the nation's future depends largely on the determination, creativity and participation of its younger generation.

Adebisi also reaffirmed his commitment to delivering democratic dividends to the people of Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1, saying his representation would remain focused on programmes and initiatives capable of improving the lives of constituents.

He assured the people of the constituency that he would continue to stand by his promises and work towards attracting more development, opportunities and empowerment to the grassroots, even as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

According to him, “Independence is not only about celebrating our past; it is also about believing in the future of Nigeria and working together to build a nation where every citizen, particularly our youths, can have hope and opportunity.”

The legislator further expressed optimism about the future of the country, noting that Nigerians have a responsibility to participate actively in the democratic process and contribute to building a more prosperous and united nation.

Adebisi also acknowledged the emergence of Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, as the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for the 2027 presidential election. Makinde emerged as the party's presidential candidate in May 2026 and has subsequently commenced preparations for the 2027 campaign.

He said the forthcoming election provides another opportunity for Nigerians to engage with political ideas, leadership programmes and national development priorities as the country looks towards the 2027 electoral cycle.

The lawmaker equally wished all candidates contesting the 2027 elections on the APM platform success, urging party members and supporters to remain committed, peaceful and united throughout the electoral process.

He concluded by calling on Nigerians to celebrate the nation's independence with renewed patriotism and a collective determination to contribute to the growth and stability of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Let us continue to believe in Nigeria, support our communities, give hope to our youths and work together for a better future. Happy 66th Independence Anniversary to all Nigerians,” Adebisi said.