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.

Excellent Social Club 2020 Inaugurates New President Olaniyi Taiwo, Promises Greater Progress

The Excellent Social Club 2020 has inaugurated its new President, ushering in a new administration with a renewed commitment to unity, development, mutual support and the continued progress of the association.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the outgoing President, Pastor Ayedun Chiroma, congratulated the new President and members of the incoming executive committee. He advised the new leadership to build on and improve the achievements recorded by the outgoing executive, stressing the importance of continuity, accountability, unity and purposeful leadership in moving the club forward.

Pastor Chiroma also called on members to give the new administration their maximum cooperation and support, noting that collective commitment remains essential to the success and growth of the association.

In his remarks, the newly inaugurated President, Olaniyi Taiwo expressed appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in him and promised to consolidate the achievements of previous administrations while introducing more improved ideas and initiatives aimed at ensuring the continued progress and development of the club. He pledged to work closely with members and the executive committee to strengthen unity, promote members' welfare and take the association to greater heights.

Also speaking, Elder Wasiu Saka, Patron of the club, congratulated the new executive and advised them to lead with wisdom, transparency and dedication. He urged members to remain united, support one another and continue to uphold the values and objectives of the association.

In his remarks, Mr. Cyrus Akinpelu, a member of the association, paid a special tribute to the Excellent Social Club 2020, describing it as a progressive association that has contributed immensely to the growth, welfare and advancement of its members. He commended the club for fostering friendship, solidarity and mutual development, while urging members to continue working together to achieve greater milestones.

The Patroness of the club, Mrs. Bolanle Ogundiran, also congratulated the new administration and offered words of encouragement to both the executives and members. She urged the leadership to remain committed to the welfare of members, promote peace and unity, and ensure that the club continues to serve as a platform for positive development.

The inauguration marked another significant chapter in the history of Excellent Social Club 2020, with members expressing optimism that the new administration would consolidate the achievements of its predecessors, introduce fresh initiatives and further strengthen the unity, welfare and progress of the association.

Prophet Ikuru: Tinubu Will Return Safely from United States

The Founder of Jehovah Eye Salvation Ministry, Prophet Godwin Ikuru, has prayed for the safe journey of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United States, expressing confidence in the President’s safe return to Nigeria.

Prophet Ikuru said he had committed President Tinubu’s trip to God in prayer, asking for divine protection throughout his visit to the United States.

The cleric urged Nigerians not to be apprehensive about the President’s journey, assuring them that Tinubu would travel to the United States and return safely.

He also expressed optimism that the visit would further strengthen diplomatic relations between Nigeria and the United States and pave the way for greater cooperation between the two countries.

Prophet Ikuru called on Nigerians to continue praying for President Tinubu and the nation, noting that stronger bilateral relations could create new opportunities and contribute to Nigeria’s development.

50th Anniversary: Ogo Sioni Baba Aladura Calls for Support for Tinubu’s Re-election

The Founder and Baba Aladura of Ogo Sioni International Ministry, New Ark Bishop Olorunfemi Ejide, has called on Christians across Nigeria to come out and vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, saying his administration has performed exceptionally well.

Ejide made the call during the thanksgiving celebration marking his 50th anniversary in the prophetic ministry, held at Ogo Sioni Avenue, off Ogundara Street, Abesan Estate, Ipaja, Lagos.

The cleric said politics affects every aspect of society, including the home, and urged Christians to participate actively in the electoral process.

He recalled Tinubu’s tenure as Governor of Lagos State, saying his administration laid foundations for the transformation that has made Lagos a prominent city in Africa.

According to him, Nigeria has also recorded improvements under Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the economy, adding that the developments should encourage Nigerians to support the President for another term.

“Before, Nigeria was regarded as being at the bottom in many areas, but today, things are changing and the economy is beginning to grow.

 This should tell you that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has performed very well,” he said.

Ejide said he and his family would support Tinubu’s bid for a second term, expressing optimism that his re-election would bring further transformation to the country.

The Baba Aladura also used the occasion to thank God for preserving his life and sustaining his prophetic ministry for five decades.

He noted that many of those who began the journey with him in 1974 were no longer alive, expressing gratitude that he had remained strong and that his ministry continued to thrive.

Why speaking ,the guest speaker, the General Overseer of Salvation Ministry, Rev. Dr. Sam Ogedengbe, described the celebrant as a man who understands Christian values and respects elders.

Ogedengbe said celebrating 50 years in the prophetic ministry was a remarkable achievement, describing Ejide as a man of integrity whose commitment to his calling could serve as an example to others in the Christian ministry.

Also speaking, Prophet Dr. Oladipo Babatunde Okeyomi, popularly known as “Carry Go,” described Ejide as a man of honour who respects others.

Okeyomi also expressed support for Tinubu, urging Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and participate in the 2027 election.

He said the President had, in his view, performed well and would continue with his administration’s programmes.

He also advised Nigerian youths not to allow politicians to use them to perpetrate violence during the election, urging them to exercise their civic rights peacefully.

“We are not going to fight with our hands; we are going to fight with our PVCs,” Okeyomi said.

The event brought together clerics, family members, friends and well-wishers who joined the celebrant in giving thanks for five decades of his prophetic ministry.

BREAKING: Alansmith Nigeria Limited Opens Partnership Talks with Orumogege Sports Services

‎Foremost sports construction and development company, Alansmith Nigeria Limited, has opened discussions with Orumogege Sports Services on a possible strategic partnership aimed at deepening sports promotion, grassroots development and talent discovery across Nigeria.

‎The emerging partnership is expected to bring together Alansmith Nigeria Limited’s experience in sports infrastructure and facility development and Orumogege Sports Services’ growing involvement in sports promotion, youth engagement and grassroots competitions. Although discussions are still at the engagement stage, both organisations are understood to be exploring areas of mutual interest that could create new opportunities for young athletes and contribute to the development of sporting communities.

‎Alansmith Nigeria Limited has, over the years, established a reputation for supporting the development of sports infrastructure, with particular attention to football facilities and playing environments that can bring organised sporting activities closer to communities.

‎The company has consistently advocated the development of functional sports facilities as an important component of youth empowerment, talent identification and community development.

‎Its philosophy of taking sports closer to the people has seen the company participate in initiatives designed to improve sporting environments and provide athletes with better platforms to train, compete and develop their abilities.

‎Through its sports construction activities, Alansmith has also promoted the idea of creating modern playing facilities that can serve schools, academies, communities and professional sporting organisations.

‎On the other hand, Orumogege Sports Services has continued to position itself as a platform for sports promotion, youth development and community engagement. Its activities, including the Orumogege Cup, have attracted attention for combining competitive football with grassroots talent discovery, community participation and social development.

‎The Orumogege Cup has particularly provided young footballers with an opportunity to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment while bringing communities together through sport. The initiative has also attracted the support of individuals and organisations committed to using sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment and community development.

‎Chairman Orumogege Sports Services, Amos Ado said the proposed collaboration could focus on several areas, including sports facility development, grassroots football programmes, talent discovery, youth competitions, sports academies and the improvement of playing facilities for communities and educational institutions.

‎The partnership talks also come at a time when stakeholders in Nigerian sports continue to emphasise the need for greater private-sector participation in the development of sports infrastructure and grassroots programmes. With government resources often stretched across several sectors, private organisations such as Alansmith and sports development platforms such as Orumogege could play complementary roles in creating sustainable opportunities for young people.

‎If concluded, the partnership could provide a framework for combining infrastructure with sporting programmes—ensuring that improved facilities are matched with regular competitions, coaching opportunities and talent-development initiatives.

‎Industry observers believe such collaborations could also help bridge one of the longstanding gaps in Nigerian grassroots sports: the disconnect between discovering talented young athletes and providing them with adequate facilities and structured pathways for development.

‎The discussions between Alansmith Nigeria Limited and Orumogege Sports Services are therefore being closely watched by stakeholders who see sports not only as entertainment but also as an important tool for youth development, employment creation, social integration and community advancement.

‎For Alansmith Nigeria Limited, the proposed engagement further reflects its continued commitment to sports promotion and development in Nigeria.

‎For Orumogege Sports Services, the discussions represent an opportunity to expand its sports-development activities and explore stronger institutional partnerships capable of giving grassroots athletes greater exposure.

‎While no final agreement has been publicly announced, the opening of talks signals a potentially significant collaboration between two organisations operating from complementary sides of the sports-development ecosystem.

‎The emerging message is clear: when quality sports infrastructure meets organised grassroots development, Nigerian youths can have a stronger platform to discover, develop and showcase their talents.

Written by: Tope Eluyefa 

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2027 Elections: Oyo NUJ Creates Platform for Candidates to Engage Voters

The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has constituted a five-member committee to coordinate a public debate for political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The initiative is designed to create an open and credible platform where candidates can articulate their policies, programmes and vision, while giving the electorate an opportunity to scrutinise their positions on issues affecting the state and its people.

The committee is headed by Mr Olayinka Agboola, while Mr Oluseye Ojo will serve as Secretary. Other members are Mrs Oyebukola Oriowo, Mrs Omolola Alamu and Mr Olusoji Ajibola.

In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Oyo State Council Chairman, Mr Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Mr Temidayo Adu, the council directed the committee to engage relevant stakeholders and develop an appropriate framework for the successful conduct of the debate.

The NUJ said the date, venue, format, participating candidates and other details of the programme would be communicated as preparations advance.

The council also urged political parties, candidates, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative, stressing that the debate was part of efforts to encourage issue-based political engagement and strengthen democratic participation in Oyo State.

According to the union, the proposed debate will enable members of the public to hear candidates present their ideas and programmes directly, while providing voters with relevant information to consider as the 2027 elections approach.

By Tope Eluyefa