Amana State Movement Demands Redemption of 64-Year-Old National Promise.

Amana State Movement Demands Redemption of 64-Year-Old National Promise.

...DG Sali Bello tells House Committee: “We’re victims of a broken pledge made in 1961”.

The Director-General and leader of the Amana State Movement, Alhaji Sali Bello (Dan Amar Mubi), made an impassioned plea for the creation of Amana State with Mubi as its capital, citing a historical promise made to the people of the former Northern Cameroons 64 years ago.

He made the plea, during a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

Speaking before the committee, Alhaji Bello described the persistent denial of statehood and capital status for Mubi as a “grave national injustice” and called on lawmakers to redeem Nigeria’s solemn pledge made during the 1961 United Nations-supervised plebiscite that merged the Northern Cameroons with Nigeria.

“Our people voted to join Nigeria in 1961 based on clear promises of autonomy and equal status for Mubi with other provincial capitals like Kano, Maiduguri, and Katsina. But six decades later, we remain a forgotten people; stateless and sidelined,” Bello lamented.

He contrasted Nigeria’s treatment of the Northern Cameroons with that of Cameroon’s approach to the Southern Cameroons, who also took part in the plebiscite. 

According to him, while Cameroon created two full regions, North West and South West, for the Southern Cameroonians with Buea and Bamenda as their capitals, Nigeria has yet to grant similar recognition or autonomy to the Northern Cameroon, which is now part of Adamawa and parts of Borno.

“Out of 10 regions in Cameroon, Southern Cameroonians got two. Out of 36 states in Nigeria, we have none. That is not justice,” he added.

Alhaji Bello explained that the name “Amana”, which means “trust”, was carefully chosen to reflect both the historical roots and moral foundation of their quest, emphasising that the movement had fulfilled all constitutional requirements and was ready to work with all willing communities within the proposed territory.

He also extended appreciation to the people of Uba Chiefdom in Borno State for supporting the call for Amana State and urged other neighbouring communities to join what he described as a movement built on “trust, fairness, equity and justice.”

Reaffirming the group's loyalty to Nigeria, Alhaji Bello stressed that their agitation is not secessionist, but rather a demand for fairness within the Nigerian federation.

“We are loyal citizens of Nigeria, committed to her unity and progress. But we will never give up on our demand for the recognition of Mubi as a state capital; because that promise must be redeemed,” he said.

Alhaji Sali Bello submitted his points by dedicating the movement’s ongoing struggle to the memories of his three late predecessors who led the Amana State campaign before him, expressing hope that the current National Assembly and government will finally correct the historical oversight.

The public hearing is part of a wider consultative process by the House of Representatives on constitutional and structural reform, including state creation.

EKSU Geology Alumni Honour Professors for Timeless Impact and Academic Excellence.

EKSU Geology Alumni Honour Professors for Timeless Impact and Academic Excellence.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Two lecturers of the Geology Department at Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, Professors O. L. Ademilua and O. F. Adebayo, were on Thursday honoured by the 2001 set of the department’s alumni.

The event, which took place at the university campus, saw the alumni, led by their President, Fadekemi Longe, presenting cash gifts and other items to the two professors in recognition of their contributions to the academic and personal development of students during their time at the institution.

Longe, while addressing the gathering, recalled how the lecturers treated students like their own children and made lasting impacts on their lives. She said the honour was a token of appreciation from the set, adding that the group would continue to support the department.

“We remember the selfless service and fatherly care you both showed us. You didn’t just teach us in the classroom; you guided us through life,” Longe said.

Responding, Prof. Ademilua, who spoke on behalf of himself and Prof. Adebayo, expressed delight over the recognition. “We are filled with joy and gratitude to God that our good deeds of over two decades are being recognized and appreciated,” he said.

Prof. Adebayo also prayed for the continued success of all members of the 2001 set and urged them not to forget their alma mater.

The Head of Department, Prof. A. O. Aturamu, who is also an alumnus of the institution, described the gesture as commendable and urged the alumni to “come over to Macedonia and help”, stressing the importance of alumni support to the development of the department.

He congratulated the honoured lecturers and called on other staff members to emulate their dedication and mentorship.

The event was attended by staff and students of the Geology Department.

The university’s Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, in a statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Bode Olofinmuagun, confirmed the development and commended the 2001 alumni set for their continued engagement with the university.

2026: Gov Primary, Done Deal for Oyebanji, Ekiti APC Women Assure.

2026: Gov Primary, Done Deal for Oyebanji, Ekiti APC Women Assure.

The All Progressives Congress women leaders in Ekiti State have assured Governor Biodun Oyebanji that he will clinch the party’s governorship ticket to vie for the June 20, 2026 poll, through total loyalty and aggressive mobilisation at the grassroots.

The women fully backed the proposed synchronized twin endorsements for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, on July 28, 2025, in Ado Ekiti, by all the structures of the party at the state, local government and ward strata.

The Chairman of Irede Local Council Development Area of Ekiti State, Mrs Modupe Bakare, spoke on Thursday, in Ijero Ekiti, headquarters of Ijero Local Government, during a women’s mobilisation tour, organised by the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, to galvanise support for the governor’s second term.

Bakare’s positions was also amplified by the APC Women Leaders in Ido/Osi; Mrs Grace Olayinka, Ijero Council; Mrs Rachael Idowu and Efon Local Government; Mrs Oriire Abiola.

This overwhelming assurance surfaced, as the State Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, counseled those who have 2026 governorship ambitions in APC to pursue them with civility.

She stated pointedly that trying to ruffle the party’s structures using monetary power won’t work in an organised party like APC.

During the interface between the party’s top echelons and women leaders, Mrs Bakare, said the party members are solidly backing the governor for a second term on account of his charming performance, saying the women shall play significant role in actualizing the dream.

Bakare showered encomiums on the governor for displaying empathies and love for womenfolk through allotment of highbrow appointments, stating that the gesture shall be reciprocated by women across the state.

“We thank God for this mobilisation organised by the First Lady. let me say this clearly, In Ijero Local Government, we are for Governor Oyebanji. He will win the party’s ticket. We are sure of that, nothing to fear”.

In the same vein, the Deputy Governor, while addressing the women, revealed that Ekiti under Governor Oyebanji, had surpassed other states of the federation, in terms of elective and appointive positions for women, assuring that the tally will increase in the second term.

The Deputy Governor, who appealed to the women to participate in the continuous registration exercise to bolster Ekiti’s voting strength, urged them to shun betrayal to spur the governor to undertake more projects that will benefit humanity.

“Let us be united and maintain unanimity of purpose in our support for Governor Oyebanji. Having dissenting views against our governor won’t be in the interest of our party.

“APC is a model of politics in Nigeria, let us keep the tempo high by our support for the governor in the governorship primary and the main election next year”.

Mrs Afuye maintained that the tantrums being thrown by some faceless individuals and groups on social media platforms, with intention to dent the image of the governor and plummet his popularity rating won’t work.

The Chairman, APC Women Elders’ Council, Chief Ronke Okusanya, said the fact that the Deputy Governor, the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, SSG, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro and six members in the assembly, among other high profile appointees are female, indicated how gender sensitive the governor was.

“Our governor and his wife are promoters of women. Today, Ekiti has the highest number of political appointees in Nigeria. If the governor gets a second term, the number will increase”.

In her submissions, the APC State Women Leader, Chief Caroline Eegunlusi, expressed confidence in the ability of APC to enthrone the governor to improve security, agriculture, industrialization and human capital development being championed by his administration.

Eegunlusi applauded the First Lady for her commitment and support to the widows, children and women, who are confronting domestic violence, saying the party will empower those who are displaying loyalty at all times.

Ekiti State Partners NADDC to Drive Youth Empowerment in the Automotive Industry.

Ekiti State Partners NADDC to Drive Youth Empowerment in the Automotive Industry.

The Ekiti State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, under the leadership of Hon. Otunba Kayode Fasae, has reiterated its commitment to creating employment opportunities through innovation-driven partnerships, as the state hosts a 3-day Strategic Management Retreat organized by the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC).

The retreat, held at the serene Ikogosi Warm Springs Tourist Resort, brings together stakeholders from government, research institutions, and the private sector to chart new strategies for advancing Nigeria’s automotive industry.

With the theme “Fostering Creativity and Innovation for Continuous Performance Improvements,” the retreat is focused on developing specialized training programs for Ekiti youths, equipping them with critical skills in emerging automotive technologies, particularly electric vehicles and automotive software development.

Speaking at the opening session, the Ekiti State Governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Mrs. Adubiaro, expressed the government’s readiness to partner with NADDC to drive youth empowerment and industrial growth in the state. She emphasized that collaborations like these hold immense potential to localize production, boost innovation, and create sustainable job opportunities for Ekiti’s young population.

Hon. Otunba Kayode Fasae, Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, who was also present at the retreat, highlighted the ministry’s commitment to leveraging this partnership to create pathways for youth employability, entrepreneurship, and wealth creation within the state’s industrial ecosystem.

The Director General of NADDC, Mr. Oluwemimo Osanipin, and the Director of Human Resources Management, Mrs. Silifat I. Amodu, also emphasized the Council’s dedication to building a future-ready workforce and supporting research collaborations that will position Nigeria’s automotive sector for global competitiveness.

The retreat, which began on Wednesday, is scheduled to conclude on Friday, July 11, 2025, with actionable strategies to deepen industry-academia-government collaboration and foster sustainable growth in the automotive industry.

The Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment remains focused on creating practical opportunities for Ekiti youths and advancing Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s vision for an economically empowered state.

EKITI ABATTOIR PROJECT TO STIMULATE LIVESTOCK SECTOR, CREATE EMPLOYMENT, AND BOOST STATE ECONOMY- AGRIC COMMISSIONER.

EKITI ABATTOIR PROJECT TO STIMULATE LIVESTOCK SECTOR, CREATE EMPLOYMENT, AND  BOOST STATE ECONOMY- AGRIC COMMISSIONER.

The Ekiti  State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade has described the construction of a dual-function ultra-modern abattoir in Ado-Ekiti 

under  the World Bank-supported Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (L-PRES) as  a strategic investment that will stimulate the livestock sector, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy

  Commissioner  Boluwade stated this while featuring on Livestock Production and Management a live radio interview programme on Radio Nigeria, Progress FM 100.5 in Ado-Ekiti.

Hon. Boluwade stated that the abattoir was designed to transform meat processing, ensure food safety, and strengthen value chains in the state’s agricultural sector, adding that the facility is a game-changing project for Ekiti

According to him, the initiative would serve as a central hub for livestock slaughtering, processing, packaging, and cold storage, stating

this will modernize the meat industry  as well as create thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

He explained that the dual-function abattoir, located along Ekiti State University (EKSU) Road in Ado-Ekiti, will provide hygienic and efficient services to butchers, meat processors and consumers, noting that the step would  reduce public health risks associated with unhygienic slaughter methods.

According to the Commissioner, the project aligns with the vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to diversify the state’s economy and promote agribusiness as a sustainable source of income and employment.

“We are not just building a slaughter house. We are building a facility that supports economic development, food security, and public health. It will empower youths, boost market access for livestock farmers, and generate revenue for the state,” he added.

Hon. Boluwade assured that the state government is committed to inclusive development, stating that local stakeholders, including the butchers’ association, livestock marketers, and meat vendors, will be carried along throughout the implementation of the project.

He emphasized that the abattoir will operate in line with international best practices, with waste management systems, veterinary inspection units, and modern equipment to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

Construction work is expected to begin shortly, following the conclusion of procurement and bidding processes in line with World Bank guidelines.

Chenco Boosts Primary Healthcare: Donates Freezer to Cold Chain Unit, Urges Staff Dedication.

Chenco Boosts Primary Healthcare: Donates Freezer to Cold Chain Unit, Urges Staff Dedication.

By: Asubiojo G.O

In a notable stride towards improving public health services, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Honourable Oluwatuyi Gbenga, popularly known as Chenco, alongside his transformative team, has donated a giant freezer to the Cold Chain Department of the local government. The equipment is expected to significantly enhance the department's capacity to store ice and preserve vaccines, thereby reinforcing the government's commitment to sound and accessible healthcare for all.

The presentation ceremony, held today at the Public Health Department of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, was marked by appreciation and commendations. Dr. George Akomolafe, the Medical Officer of Health (MOH), expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the donation as a "landmark gesture" that reflects Honourable Oluwatuyi Gbenga’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people, especially children.

"This contribution shows your deep commitment to strengthening our health infrastructure and ensuring better service delivery. Your leadership is setting a positive pace for our collective mission to serve the community," Dr. Akomolafe stated.

Similarly, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah B., lauded the chairman’s visionary leadership. She described the gesture as not just a physical donation, but a reflection of his love, foresight, and mission-driven governance. She prayed for continued grace and strength for Honourable Gbenga to remain a pacesetter in Ekiti State.

In his remarks, the chairman charged the health workers to remain steadfast, diligent, and professional, emphasizing the need for optimal use of the freezer and all available resources. He also encouraged them to support the policies and projects of the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who he praised for his developmental strides across the state.

Present at the presentation are members of the Game Changing Team:::::Honourable Remi Alade, the Vice Chairman,Dr.Honourable Sule.F, The Secretary and other relevant individuals 

This act of benevolence marks yet another impactful milestone in the Chenco-led administration’s commitment to grassroots transformation, especially in critical sectors like healthcare.

Kayode Ojo in Talks to Join ADC as APC Door Closes, Enlists Atiku Ally as DG.

Kayode Ojo in Talks to Join ADC as APC Door Closes, Enlists Atiku Ally as DG.

Ikoro-Ekiti-born entrepreneur and politician, Engr. Kayode Ojo, is poised to transition to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid intensifying uncertainties regarding his prospects within the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Ojo divulged this information to his loyal supporters in what is being characterized as a courageous political realignment, prompted by recent high-profile endorsements for incumbent Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji within the APC.

Reliable sources indicate that strategic discussions are currently underway between Ojo and prominent ADC stakeholders in both Abuja and Port Harcourt, with notable political luminaries such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and Senator David Mark participating in these deliberations.

It appears that the opportunities available to Ojo within the APC have substantially diminished.

Governor Oyebanji presently enjoys extensive institutional support, leaving Ojo with scant room for maneuverability.

Nevertheless, he remains steadfast in his resolve to challenge the prevailing order, with his aspirations now firmly anchored in the ADC platform.

Spearheading Ojo’s new political trajectory is Hon. Lanre Fayemi, a former Minority Leader of the Ekiti State House of Assembly (PDP, 1999) and a close confidant of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Although Fayemi is from Ifaki Ward 2, his political endeavors in the town have been less than impressive over the past two years. 

His last known party affiliation was with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), although his current political orientation remains ambiguous.

Other prominent members of Ojo’s entourage include Hons. Ropo Ige, Taju Gidado, Motunde Fajuyi, and Olusola Omolayo. 

These key individuals, who all rallied behind Ojo during the 2022 APC primaries, left the APC and have not rejoined the party since then. 

Hon. Olusola Omolayo, in particular, contested the House of Assembly seat under the SDP banner against the current Speaker of the House. As of today, he and others like Ropo Ige of Ikoro-Ekiti remain steadfastly outside the APC, despite Ojo's subtle attempts to project a mainstream status.

Hon.(Mrs) Motunde Fajuyi contested the Ekiti Central senatorial seat against the current Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele(MOB) under the ADC platform in 2023 and  remains a towering figure in the party till today. 

Despite setbacks in the 2018 and 2022 APC primaries, where he was defeated by Governor Kayode Fayemi and Governor Oyebanji, respectively, Kayode Ojo is banking on his political network, financial resources, and renewed support from national figures to reinvigorate his ambitions under the ADC banner.

Previously, certain blocks within the APC have consistently called for the expulsion of the Kayode Ojo Group from the party, citing a blatant disregard for the section of the party constitution that prohibits members from dragging party representatives before the courts until all internal remedies have been exhausted.

With the political climate in Ekiti becoming increasingly charged, all eyes are on Kayode Ojo’s forthcoming actions as he prepares to mount a formidable opposition and reassert his significance on a new political stage.