New Era Foundation Marks Sixth Olokun Festival, Reaffirms Commitment to Yoruba Cultural Heritage

The New Era Foundation for Yoruba Festival and Culture Intervention has celebrated the sixth edition of its annual Olokun Festival, reaffirming its commitment to preserving, promoting and transmitting Yoruba culture and traditional values to future generations.

The 2026 edition of the festival was held at Debojo Beach, Eleko, in the Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos State, with members of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) New Era, traditional rulers, cultural enthusiasts and Yoruba sons and daughters in attendance.

Speaking at the event, President of OPC New Era, Comrade Rasak Arogundade, described the annual festival as a significant platform for celebrating Yoruba heritage, spirituality and traditions.

Arogundade said the gathering provided an opportunity for Yoruba people to come together in prayer and thanksgiving, likening it to the way Christians travel to Jerusalem and Muslims journey to Mecca for religious observances.

According to him, the festival also offers participants an opportunity to pray for prosperity, peace, unity and progress in their communities.

He urged members of OPC New Era to remain peaceful, disciplined and committed to protecting Yoruba cultural heritage and promoting the interests of their communities wherever they operate.

Also speaking, the Chairman of OPC New Era in Oyo State, Comrade Rotimi Olumo, said those who were absent from the celebration had missed an important cultural gathering.

Olumo stressed that the festival was not exclusively for OPC members, but was open to all Yoruba people committed to celebrating and preserving their cultural heritage.

He said the event provided an avenue to pray for prosperity, long life, peace and continued progress for the Yoruba people.

Olumo also offered prayers for the traditional rulers who attended the festival, asking God to grant them long and peaceful reigns. 

He further prayed for Arogundade, seeking divine wisdom, strength and good health for him to continue leading OPC New Era to greater heights.

The festival featured prayers, cultural activities and traditional observances, with some participants collecting water to take home as part of their personal spiritual and cultural practices.

The celebration was further enlivened by a musical performance from Ibadan-born Fuji musician Taye Currency, whose performance thrilled participants and added colour to the occasion.

The organisers said the annual Olokun Festival would continue to serve as a platform for promoting Yoruba identity, cultural values, unity, peaceful coexistence and the preservation of the rich heritage of the Yoruba people.

Adebisi Deepens Grassroots Support for APM, Makes Major Donation to Ibadan Southwest Chapter

The Deputy Chief Whip of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, has called on members of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), as well as members of allied political parties, to remain united, committed and steadfast, assuring them that their loyalty and sacrifices would yield greater rewards.

Hon. Adebisi made the call during his visit to the APM local government meeting in Ibadan Southwest, which brought together party leaders, stakeholders and contestants for various elective positions across the local government.

The lawmaker’s arrival at the meeting venue generated excitement as a large crowd of supporters from his constituency turned out to receive him. The atmosphere was charged with funfair, solidarity songs and enthusiastic cheers, while party members took turns to commend Hon. Adebisi for his accessibility, grassroots engagement and continued commitment to the welfare and development of his people.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Adebisi commended the party leadership, aspirants and members for their resilience and dedication to building a formidable political structure at the grassroots.

He urged members of the APM and its allied political partners not to be distracted, but to remain focused on the collective vision, stressing that the strength of any political movement rests on the commitment and unity of its members.

The lawmaker assured members that their efforts would not go unrewarded, declaring that “bigger and greater rewards are coming to all committed members of the party.”

He explained that political participation should go beyond electoral contests, noting that it should also be about building enduring relationships, empowering people, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for members and the wider society.

Hon. Adebisi further charged party members across the wards to sustain regular meetings, grassroots mobilisation and constructive engagement, while maintaining peace, discipline and mutual respect among themselves.

He emphasized that a strong grassroots structure could only be achieved when members remained active and united, urging leaders, aspirants and supporters to work together in the interest of the party and the people.

The Deputy Chief Whip also assured members of his continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening the party’s presence and activities across Ibadan Southwest.

The gathering reached a remarkable climax when Hon. Yusuf Adebisi made a substantial financial donation to the Ibadan Southwest Local Government chapter of the Allied Peoples Movement, aimed at supporting members present at the meeting and facilitating activities of the party across the various wards.

The gesture was warmly received by the leadership and members, who expressed appreciation for the lawmaker’s support and commitment to grassroots party development.

The meeting ended on a lively note as supporters renewed their solidarity and confidence in Hon. Adebisi, with the gathering reflecting the growing enthusiasm around the APM and its allied political structure in Ibadan Southwest.

Beyond the political discussions, the visit provided an opportunity for the lawmaker to strengthen his relationship with party stakeholders, aspirants and grassroots members while reaffirming his message of unity, commitment, loyalty and shared prosperity.

Men’s Mental Health: PPUGI Calls on Men to Break Silence, Seek Support

As part of efforts to draw attention to the often-overlooked mental health challenges confronting men, the Peace, Progress and Unity Global Initiative (PPUGI) on Saturday organised a Men’s Mental Health Awareness Walk 2026 in Lagos, urging men to prioritise their wellbeing and speak out about their struggles.

The awareness walk, themed “Providing Direction and Support — Breaking the Silence,” commenced from the Secretariat of Onigbongbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and ended at Allen Avenue Junction, Ikeja.

Founder and Director of PPUGI and Farida Charity Foundation, Ambassador (Dr.) Farida Ahmed, said the initiative was aimed at challenging the societal expectation that men must always appear strong, even when battling emotional and psychological difficulties.

Ahmed, who described herself as a West African ECOWAS Youth Ambassador and Global Peace Ambassador, said the organisation had been advocating men’s mental health awareness for seven years.

According to her, the campaign was necessary because many men silently carry the burden of providing for their families and meeting societal expectations.

“Why men? It is men because a woman who succeeds in whatever she does is a woman who has a man who supports her in whatever she does,” she said.

“It is my duty as a woman to support the mental wellbeing of every man around me and across the globe because you matter, you are important, and there is much more to you than you can ever imagine.”

Ahmed urged men to reject the stereotype that seeking help or showing emotions was a sign of weakness.

“It is okay to feel. It is okay to cry. We need to beat the stereotype of saying that you should ‘man up’. This is not the time to ‘man up’ anymore. You are first human before being a man,” she said.

She advised men to recognise their limitations, manage stress and avoid putting themselves under unnecessary pressure.

“You are not less of a man because you cannot meet up with demands. Take it one step at a time. If you need to pause, you have to pause,” she said.

Veteran music director, vocal coach and television personality, Benneth Ogbeiwi, popularly known as Uncle Ben, commended PPUGI for recognising the sacrifices made by men.

“For the fact that PPUGI recognises us for who we are, it is enough to thank them and all the women who came to support the initiative,” he said.

Ogbeiwi urged men facing difficulties to speak to trusted people rather than suffer in silence.

“I want the men to speak out. You need to speak to someone. It’s okay to shy away, but you need to trust someone,” he said, adding that those unable to confide in others could seek solace through prayer.

Mrs Anuoluwapo Aluki also urged both men and women to pay greater attention to their mental health.

“Nobody should die in silence. Speaking out is the best option,” she said. “All men have been trying their best, but they should take time to rest.”

Alhaji Mohammed Sanni Aliu described the programme as an important grassroots initiative, noting that many people were facing increasing pressures because of the economic situation.

“People are going through a lot, and until you voice out, there is no way somebody would know what you are going through,” he said.

The speakers collectively called for greater understanding, support and encouragement for men, stressing that mental wellbeing should be treated as an important part of healthy living.

New Era Foundation Announces 2026 Olokun Festival in Lagos

The New Era Foundation for Yoruba Festival and Culture Intervention has announced plans for the 2026 Olokun Festival, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, 25 August 2026, at Debojo Beach, Eleko, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

President of OPC New Era, Comrade Rasak Arogundade, said the festival would feature a variety of cultural activities and attract prominent traditional rulers, government officials, cultural enthusiasts and other distinguished guests.

Arogundade disclosed that the Guest Lecturer for the occasion would be the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun.

He said Oba Olayemi Luman Arowolo (Arole Oguntimileyin I), Gbadewolu of Araromi Kingdom, would serve as the Royal Father of the Day, while Oba Babatunde Akanni Sonala (Ilufemiloye I), Olu of Makogi Kingdom, would be the Royal Guest of Honour.

He further announced that the Iyalode Oodua OPC New Era, Chief Mrs Olabosipo Olaseinde, would serve as the Spiritual Mother of the Day.

The Onidebojo of Debojo Kingdom, Oba Ajibola Talabi Odugbesan (Gbadegesin II), will host the celebration as the Royal Host.

According to Arogundade, the festival will also feature live musical performances by Alhaji Adebisi Akande, popularly known as Taye Currency.

He called on members of OPC New Era, Yoruba cultural groups and members of the public to turn out in large numbers to participate in the celebration.

Arogundade emphasised that the festival was aimed at promoting, preserving and showcasing Yoruba culture and traditions, while bringing people together in an atmosphere of unity and cultural pride.

He also assured guests and participants that comprehensive security arrangements had been put in place to ensure a peaceful and successful event.

The 2026 Olokun Festival is expected to bring together traditional institutions, government representatives, cultural stakeholders and members of the public for a colourful celebration of Yoruba heritage.

Prophet Ikuru Predicts Adeleke’s Re-election, Tinubu’s 2027 Victory

The Founder and General Overseer of Jehovah Eye Salvation Ministry, Lagos, Prophet Godwin Ikuru, has predicted the re-election of Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, in the forthcoming governorship election.

Speaking on the political developments ahead of the poll, Prophet Ikuru said he had received a revelation indicating that Adeleke would emerge victorious and secure a second term in office.

According to the cleric, the revelation featured a scenario in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) attempted to throw a ball into a basket but failed to score. He said that when Governor Adeleke subsequently threw his own ball, it went straight into the basket.

Ikuru interpreted the revelation as a sign that Adeleke would retain the governorship of Osun State.

The prophet also recalled that he had predicted Adeleke’s victory during the governor’s first-term election, noting that the prediction eventually came to pass.

However, Ikuru expressed disappointment that Adeleke had not remembered or acknowledged the prophet who, according to him, had foretold his electoral victory.

The cleric also turned his attention to the 2027 general election, predicting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win a second term in office.

He urged Nigerians to continue praying for the President, particularly for long life and good health, as the country prepares for the next general election.

On the political outlook in the South-West, Ikuru further predicted victories for the APC in Lagos and Ogun States.

He called on political leaders and citizens to remain prayerful and committed to peace, stressing the need for a peaceful and stable electoral process as the country approaches the forthcoming elections.

The predictions remain the personal views and prophecies of the cleric and are not independently verifiable

Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Commitment to Empowering Artisans, Unveils New Skills and Enterprise Initiatives

Lagos – Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to empowering artisans and strengthening vocational skills as key drivers of economic growth, wealth creation and inclusive prosperity across the state

The Governor gave the assurance on Wednesday at the 2026 Lagos State Artisans Day Celebration, held at the Blue Roof Complex, LTV 8, Agidingbi, Ikeja.

Addressing participants on the theme, "Inclusive Enterprise: Artisans Driving Wealth Creation and Prosperity," Sanwo-Olu described artisans as the backbone of Lagos' economy, stressing that every great city is built by skilled hands.

He noted that artisans play a vital role in constructing homes, maintaining infrastructure, driving industries and sustaining Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which remain the foundation of the state's economy.

The Governor commended the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, led by the Commissioner, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Lolade Aina, for implementing programmes that promote skills development and economic inclusion.

Acknowledging the challenges confronting artisans, including high energy costs, limited access to affordable finance, multiple taxation and competition from unqualified operators, Sanwo-Olu assured stakeholders that the Lagos State Government was implementing strategic reforms to address the issues.

He disclosed that the Lagos State Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law had streamlined over 60 taxes and levies into just nine, while outlawing illegal collections by unauthorised unions and associations.

On power supply, the Governor revealed that the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission had licensed 14 independent power operators and commenced the rollout of 24-hour electricity franchise zones alongside a 100 per cent metering programme.

To enhance professionalism within the sector, he said the government was strengthening annual trade tests and craftsmen certification programmes in collaboration with the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB).

Sanwo-Olu further announced that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) had disbursed more than ₦1.9 billion in affordable loans to over 4,000 small businesses, provided grants to 65 enterprises, and continued to offer collateral-free loans of up to ₦5 million at single-digit interest rates.

He added that an eight-week skills acquisition programme for 1,200 artisans and tradesmen had commenced, while another 2,000 Lagos residents would benefit from vocational and digital skills training through a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Governor urged artisans to embrace technology, continually improve their skills and mentor younger professionals, emphasising that vocational careers deserve the same recognition and respect as white-collar professions.

"When artisans thrive, families prosper. When families prosper, communities flourish, and Lagos becomes stronger, more competitive and more prosperous for all, " he said.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the event as a celebration of the hardworking men and women whose skills, dedication and enterprise continue to drive Lagos' economy.

He praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering commitment to job creation, enterprise development and economic empowerment through initiatives designed to expand opportunities for residents.

According to the Commissioner, artisans remain indispensable to the state's economic development through job creation, infrastructure maintenance, the production of essential goods and services, and the training of future skilled professionals.

Ajigbotafe reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to strengthening artisans through skills upgrading, entrepreneurship support, business formalisation, improved access to information and strategic partnerships with both public and private sector organisations.

He also encouraged artisans to embrace digital technology, adopt modern production techniques and position themselves to compete successfully in both local and international markets.

In her goodwill message, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Wealth Creation and Employment, 

Hon. Stella Osafile, applauded artisans and tradesmen for their immense contributions to the state's growth and development.

She described artisans as resilient, creative and hardworking professionals whose services remain indispensable to Lagos' economy, noting that professionals across various trades—including tailoring, carpentry, nail technology and cosmetology—continue to strengthen communities through their expertise and enterprise.

Osafile urged young people to embrace vocational skills acquisition, describing technical and vocational professions as viable pathways to self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable wealth creation.

Also speaking, President of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, Engr. Lawrence Ajayi, reaffirmed the Council's commitment to collaborating with the Lagos State Government to strengthen the informal sector.

He said artisans would continue to promote wealth creation, community development and economic prosperity through professionalism, innovation and collaboration.

The 2026 Lagos State Artisans Day celebration featured the presentation of awards to outstanding artisans across various trades in recognition of their excellence, innovation and outstanding contributions to the continued growth and development of Lagos State.

‎Adebisi Congratulates Dr. Adeniran, Kazeem Bolarinwa on Strategic APM Campaign Appointments

Ibadan, Oyo State – The Chairman, Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Youth and Sports and Honourable Member representing Ibadan Southwest State Constituency I, Hon. Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Adeniran on his appointment as the Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council and Hon. Kazeem Bolarinwa on his appointment as Director of the Youth Wing of the Adekanmbi Governorship Campaign Council of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

‎In a congratulatory message issued on Thursday, Hon. Adebisi described both appointments as well-deserved recognitions of competence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the ideals and growth of the party.

‎According to the lawmaker, the appointment of Dr. Adeniran as Director-General of the Presidential Campaign Council reflects the confidence reposed in his leadership capacity, strategic thinking, and wealth of political experience, expressing optimism that he would provide the necessary direction for a successful campaign.

‎Hon. Adebisi particularly showered encomiums on Hon. Kazeem Bolarinwa, describing him as one of Oyo State's finest youth mobilisers whose remarkable contributions to youth development have continued to earn him respect across political and social divides.

‎He noted that Kazeem Bolarinwa had repeatedly demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities during his tenure as Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Youths, where he initiated and supported programmes that positively impacted thousands of young people across the state.

‎"Hon. Kazeem Bolarinwa has consistently proven himself to be an outstanding youth leader and an exceptional mobiliser. His ability to unite, inspire, and engage young people has distinguished him over the years. This appointment is a reward for hard work, loyalty, and selfless service," Adebisi said.

‎The Chairman of the House Committee on Youth and Sports expressed confidence that Bolarinwa would deploy his vast experience, grassroots network, and leadership acumen to galvanise young people across Oyo State in support of the governorship aspiration of Chief Bimbo Adekanmbi and the overall success of the APM in the forthcoming elections.

‎Hon. Adebisi further prayed for divine wisdom, strength, and success for both appointees as they undertake the enormous responsibility of leading strategic campaign structures for the party.

‎He urged party faithful, supporters, youths, and stakeholders across the state to rally behind the campaign leadership in order to ensure a resounding victory for the Allied Peoples Movement in the forthcoming general elections.

‎"These appointments are a clear indication that competence, commitment, and proven capacity remain the hallmarks of leadership within our great party. I congratulate Dr. Adeniran and Hon. Kazeem Bolarinwa and wish them tremendous success in their respective assignments," he added.

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