THE DIGESTABLE

Aina Obasanjo  The Elega/Saje Progressive Support Group (ESPSG) has endorsed Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as YAYI, for the 2027 Ogun State governorship election. The coordinator of the group, Prince Adekunle Idowu in a statement in Abeokuta said the endorsement followed consultations among members across Abeokuta North and Abeokuta South. Prince Idowu explained that the ESPSG is a grassroots movement committed to community development and good governance rather than partisan politics.  The Coordinator stated that the membership comprises professionals, entrepreneurs, artisans, traders, students and other stakeholders drawn from different sectors of society. He expressed confidence that Senator Adeola's leadership would promote infrastructure development and improve the welfare of residents across Ogun State. Prince Idowu also announced plans to intensify grassroots mobilisation and community-based projects ahead of the 2027 elections, saying members would...

Aina Obasanjo  Member representing Abeokuta South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Afolabi Moruf Afuape, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Alhaja Chief Mrs. Fausat Abolanle Lemboye, wife of community leader, Chief Tajudeen Lemboye. In a condolence message, Hon. Afuape described the late Alhaja Lemboye as a woman of exceptional kindness and compassion who devoted her life to the service of her family, community, and humanity. The lawmaker said her passing is a painful loss, noting that her legacy of love, generosity, and commitment to noble values will continue to inspire all who knew her. Hon. Afuape prayed for Almighty Allah to grant Chief Tajudeen Lemboye, members of the family, and loved ones the strength, patience, and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. He also prayed to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, accept her good deeds, and grant her eternal rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus. The federal lawmaker extended his heartfelt condolenc...

Aina Obasanjo  The Youth and Students Wings of the Yayi Progressives Movement (YPM) have organised a solidarity walk in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to reaffirm their support for President Bola Tinubu, Governor Dapo Abiodun and Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola ahead of the 2027 general elections. The participants also expressed support for Governor Abiodun's reported senatorial ambition and Senator Adeola's governorship aspiration on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The peaceful procession commenced at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, and moved through major streets in Abeokuta.  It attracted youths, students, party supporters and APC leaders, who carried banners and placards while chanting slogans in support of the political leaders. Addressing the gathering, Convener of the movement, Armstrong Tope Akintunde, said the event was organised to encourage greater participation of young people in the democratic process and to reaffirm their commitment to t...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Leader of the Aje Traders for YAYI Support Group, Mrs. Onibude Folake, has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment and readiness of members of the group to mobilize massive support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for a second term in office during the 2027 general elections. Speaking during a meeting of the group in Abeokuta, Mrs. Folake stated that the achievements of the Tinubu-led administration in laying the foundation for economic recovery, infrastructure development, and institutional reforms have strengthened the confidence of traders and other stakeholders in the Renewed Hope Agenda. She noted that members of the Aje Traders for YAYI Support Group are fully prepared to embark on grassroots mobilization across markets and communities to ensure the overwhelming re-election of President Tinubu, whose leadership, according to her, remains crucial to the continued growth and development of Nigeria. Mrs. Folake also declared the group's ...

  Aina Obasanjo  An international boxing-for-development organization, Bristol Boxing foundation has announced its intention to partner Ogun State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria and Peace Initiative Network to expand the use of boxing as a tool for social change. The Executive Director for Global Partnerships and Impact at Empire Fighting Chance, Mr Martin Bisp made this known during an interactive engagement with SWAN members Hela at the Secretariat of the Association, MKO Abiola Sports Arena Kuto Abeokuta. Mr Bisp explained that the organization used boxing training, combined with psychology, to engage young people involved in gangs, violence, and mental health challenges, adding that the programme had helped participants to return to education, secure employment, and build positive futures. According to him, boxing gyms provide a safe, welcoming environment where barriers are broken down and life-changing opportunities begin.  Also speaking the PIN fa...

Aina Obasanjo  Renowned Nigerian poet and literary figure, Samuel Ogunyinka popularly known as Psalmist has felicitated his  beloved mother, Mrs. Felicia Ogunyinka, as she marks another year of God's faithfulness today. In a heartfelt message, Samuel Ogunyinka described his mother as a woman of uncommon grace, unwavering faith, resilience, and immeasurable love whose sacrifices and steadfast commitment to family have remained a guiding light throughout his life and career. The literary figure noted that Mrs. Felicia Ogunyinka's nurturing spirit, wisdom, and enduring values have played a pivotal role in shaping the person he has become, inspiring not only his personal journey but also his passion for literature and humanity. "Today, I celebrate not just a mother, but a remarkable woman whose life has been a shining example of selflessness, integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to God and family. Your prayers, encouragement, and sacrifices have been the foundation u...

Aina Obasanjo  The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Candidate for the House of Representatives representing Abeokuta North, Odeda, and Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency, Arc. Oladele AbdulQuadri Olaleye, has reaffirmed the party's unwavering commitment to promoting women's participation in politics and governance. Arc. Olaleye who stated in an interview with Journalists in Abeokuta, noted that the PDP recognizes that women are not only the backbone of families and communities but also essential partners in nation-building.  The PDP House of representatives candidate for Abeokuta North, Odeda, and Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency, emphasized that sustainable development can only be achieved when women are given equal opportunities to participate actively in the electoral process, decision-making, and leadership. Arc. Olaleye noted that the PDP has consistently advocated  greater inclusion of women through policies that encourage their involvement as voters, campaigners, p...

Ayat Model School, Oke Ata, Abeokuta, Ogun State has awarded three full scholarships to three learners who have distinguished themselves in learning and character. The scholarships will run for the 2026/2027 academic session.  The awards, along with cash prizes, were announced by Director of School, Mr Toheeb Bakare during the school's End-of-the year and Prize-giving while other pupils/students also carted away prizes as best performers in different subjects. The scholarship beneficiaries are Roheemah Akinmade of Reception Class, Faizat Fakeye of the Basic Primary category and Maryam Idris of the Senior Secondary category respectively.  He praised recipients for their hard work and dedication to studies while also stressing that the school had awarded them the scholarships in recognition of their efforts and support for their educational journey.  Mr Bakare enjoined parents and guardians to ensure proper moulding of their children's character, noting that "an Islami...

Aina Obasanjo  Ogun State has received international recognition from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, UNIDO, for its commitment to circular economy and environmental sustainability. The recognition comes as the state was selected as one of the core states under Project 220145, Component Two, aimed at advancing Nigeria's green and just transition to net-zero emissions through circular economy initiatives. Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, announced this while declaring open a UNIDO workshop on the implementation plan and data management guidelines for the Used Off-Grid Renewable Energy Equipment, otherwise known as the OGREE Waste Management Project, in Abeokuta. Dr. Oresanya said the recognition reflected Ogun State's readiness to promote resource efficiency, waste reduction, recycling, recovery and green economic growth. He noted that the state has recorded significant achievements in climate action, including the distribution of more than...

  Aina Obasanjo  The National Sports Commission (NSC) has announced an increase in performance bonuses and instant cash rewards for Team Nigeria athletes competing at the ongoing Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. Chairman of the Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, said the decision followed a meeting with the Director General aimed at boosting the morale of Nigerian athletes. Under the revised incentive package, gold medal winners will now receive a total of 10,000 dollars, comprising an instant cash reward of 5,000 dollars and another 5,000 dollars paid directly into their accounts. Silver medalists will receive a total of 5,000 dollars, including 2,000 dollars as an instant cash reward and 3,000 dollars paid into their accounts, while bronze medalists will earn 3,000 dollars, made up of 1,000 dollars in instant cash and 2,000 dollars credited to their accounts. Mallam Dikko explained that the previous package for gold medalists was 8,000 dollars, but the instant cash rewa...

Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Coordinator of the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr. Ilori Olakunle Ayodeji, has announced the commencement of registration for the third phase of the Renewed Hope Employment Initiative. Mr. Ilori in a statement in Abeokuta said the programme is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and is aimed at empowering unemployed and unskilled youths through skills acquisition and employment opportunities. According to him, registration, which commenced on Thursday, July 23, 2026, will end on Thursday, July 30, 2026. He explained that successful applicants will receive training in agriculture, vocational skills, entrepreneurship, digital skills, as well as participate in Special Public Works programmes. The State Coordinator noted that registration is strictly online and advised interested applicants to register through the NDE registration portal using a valid email address and National Identity Number (NIN). Mr. Ilori added...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Vice Chancellor of Crescent University, Abeokuta, Professor Ibraheem Gbajabiamila has commended the 500-level students of the Department of Mass Communication for successfully producing the department's publication, On Stage Magazine, describing the feat as a testament to their creativity, commitment, and professional training. Speaking during the presentation of the magazine, Professor Gbajabiamila praised the students for their dedication and teamwork in delivering a publication that reflects the knowledge and practical skills acquired during their academic programme. He encouraged the graduating students to sustain the passion, discipline, and determination they demonstrated while pursuing their degree, noting that these qualities would continue to distinguish them in their future careers and academic pursuits. The Vice Chancellor also urged the students to remain committed to lifelong learning, emphasizing that age or social status should never be a ba...

  Aina Obasanjo  Arc. Oladele AbdulQuadri Olaleye, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the House of Representatives representing Abeokuta North, Odeda and Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency, has called for legislation that would compel the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to provide transformers to communities within a stipulated period. Arc. Olaleye who made the call while featuring on Ijoba Tiwantiwa on Paramount FM Abeokuta, said a law should be enacted to mandate IBEDC to replace or install transformers for communities within two months of a formal request.  He added that failure by the electricity distribution company to meet the deadline should attract appropriate sanctions. The PDP candidate condemned the current practice whereby communities are compelled to raise funds to procure transformers on their own due to prolonged delays by the distribution company. He also described as unfair and unacceptable the policy that requires such commu...

Aina Obasanjo  The Abeokuta All Stars Veterans League continues this weekend with another round of exciting fixtures at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto, Abeokuta. The headline fixture will see former champions, All Stars FC Abeokuta, take on Lisabi All Stars in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. as both sides battle for crucial points. Another highly anticipated clash will follow at 9:30 a.m., with Carwash Bombers locking horns with Africa All Stars in a match expected to produce plenty of excitement. The upcoming fixtures come on the heels of an entertaining round of matches last weekend.  MAPOLY All Stars produced a dominant performance, defeating Desert FC 4-0. Yaga Abraham was the star of the show with a superb hat-trick, while Aramide Owolabi added the fourth goal to complete the emphatic victory. In another fixture, Ajani Ibrahim's solitary strike earned Ebenezer All Stars a hard-fought 1-0 win over Amolasho, securing all thr...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Allstars Football Club, Abeokuta, has congratulated Hon. Nuraen Idowu Olowofuja on his appointment as Special Consultant to the Governor of Ogun State. The President of the Club, Alhaji Lawal Adeoye Waheed in a congratulatory message described the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Hon. Olowofuja's dedication, integrity, and commitment to public service and the development of Ogun State. Alhaji Lawal noted that Hon. Olowofuja has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and a strong commitment to community development, both within and outside the sporting arena. According to him, his appointment is not only a personal achievement but also a source of pride for the football community, youth development, and the people of Abeokuta. Alhaji Lawal expressed confidence that his experience and vision would contribute meaningfully to the progress of Ogun State and wished him wisdom, strength, and success in his new role.

Aina Obasanjo  The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the House of Representatives, Abeokuta North, Odeda and Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency, Arc. Oladele AbdulQuadri Olaleye, has urged eligible voters across the constituency to actively participate in the democratic process by voting for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the forthcoming election. Speaking during an interview in Abeokuta on the theme, "Deepening Democratic Participation and Grassroots Development,"  Arc. Olaleye stressed that democracy can only thrive when citizens exercise their civic responsibility by voting for credible and competent leaders who are committed to the welfare of the people. He expressed concern over the growing rate of unemployment and poverty in the country, describing the situation as alarming.  The PDP House of representatives candidate noted that the harsh economic realities have made many voters susceptible to inducement during elections, a trend he said poses a se...

  Aina Obasanjo  Ogun State has secured a 250 million dollar investment for the establishment of what is expected to become Nigeria’s largest dairy farm. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, disclosed this during a community engagement meeting between the investors, Pure Dairy Herd, and residents of Itoro in Yewa South Local Government Area. He said the project, located in Itoro, will begin with about ten thousand dairy cows and is expected to significantly increase domestic milk production, create employment opportunities, stimulate economic activities and strengthen Nigeria’s livestock and dairy value chain. The Commissioner attributed the investment to the investor-friendly policies of the Ogun State Government under Governor Dapo Abiodun, adding that the state continues to attract major agricultural investments across different locations. According to him, the investors have also undertaken to carry out palliative repairs on roads leading to th...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Government, through the International Fund for Agricultural Development-assisted Value Chain Development Programme, has distributed sixteen tricycles to sixteen farmer groups across the eight participating local government areas of the state. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, said the intervention was s designed to ease the transportation of agricultural produce, reduce logistics costs and improve productivity among farmers. Hon. Owotomo noted that the Value Chain Development Programme has continued to support farmers with initiatives aimed at boosting food security, increasing agricultural output and improving livelihoods. He urged beneficiaries to use the tricycles strictly for agricultural activities, warning against their sale or diversion to commercial purposes unrelated to farming.  The Commissioner stressed that proper maintenance would ensure the vehicles serve the intended purpose for a long tim...

Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the state's rich cultural heritage and tourism through strategic partnerships. Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Oluwasesan Fagbayi, gave the assurance while receiving members of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, Ogun State Chapter, led by its Chairperson, Mrs. Oluwaseun Boye, during an advocacy visit ahead of the 2026 World Public Relations Summit. Hon. Fagbayi commended the Institute for its role in strategic communication and cultural promotion, promising the Ministry's continued collaboration to showcase Ogun State's cultural heritage on the global stage.  He added that the Ministry would provide advisory support and facilitate necessary guidance to ensure successful planning and implementation of related programmes. Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Quudus Yusuff, described the World Public Relations Summit as a valuable platform to project Og...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining its partnership with Evidence Action Nigeria to improve the health and well-being of pupils in public primary schools across the state. The Chairman of the Board, Evangelist Olalekan Ifede, gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from Evidence Action Nigeria, led by its Deputy Country Director, Dr. Olusola Adeoye, during a courtesy visit to the Board's Secretariat at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. Evangelist Ifede who was represented by Permanent Member IV, Rt. Hon. Akeem Balogun,  described the collaboration as impactful, noting that regular school-based deworming campaigns and teacher training programmes implemented by the organisation had contributed significantly to improving the health of thousands of schoolchildren across Ogun State. He commended Evidence Action for its sustained interventions and assured the organisation of the Board's continued support...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Candidate of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for Ogun Central Senatorial district, Senator Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello has continued her grassroots engagement with a visit to Abeokuta North Local Government Area, where she was received by party members and residents. A member of the delegation, Arc.Dele Olaleye, PDP, Candidate for the House of Representatives, Abeokuta North, Odeda and Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency, said the large turnout reflected the growing acceptance of the IYANIWURA movement, which he described as committed to improving the well-being of the people through impactful and people-oriented initiatives. He noted that the reception underscored the confidence many residents have in the movement's vision and its commitment to purposeful leadership. Arc. Olaleye also expressed confidence that the level of support demonstrated during the visit would strengthen the movement's prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Government has announced plans for a one hundred million dollar investment by Presco Plc to revive the Apoje Farms plantation in Ijebu-Igbo, as part of efforts to boost agricultural production, create employment and strengthen food security. The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Bolu Owotomo, disclosed this during a stakeholders' meeting held at the palace of the Orimolusi of Ijebu-Igbo, Oba Lawrence Adebajo.  The meeting brought together members of the Ijebu-Igbo Traditional Council and representatives of Presco Plc to discuss the proposed partnership. Hon. Owotomo noted that the investment is expected to unlock the economic potential of the plantation and stimulate inclusive economic growth in Ogun State.  He said that Presco Plc, a company listed on the Nigerian Exchange with a market capitalisation exceeding two point five trillion naira, is expected to begin operations immediately after the agreement is signed, ...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Ogun State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening industrial safety and environmental protection through improved regulation, capacity building and proactive risk management. Speaking at a training workshop for safety personnel in Abeokuta, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya, said the state's rapid industrial growth must be matched with effective safety systems to protect lives, property and the environment. Dr Oresanya who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Kafayat Lawal disclosed that the government was working to transform the existing Safety Office into a fully-fledged Ogun State Safety Commission to enhance policy implementation, technical oversight, enforcement and collaboration with industry stakeholders. He also announced plans to commence a comprehensive statewide industrial safety audit programme aimed at identifying safety gaps, improving compliance and encouraging continuous improvement rather than...

Aina Obasanjo  The Yayi Youth Vanguard has pledged to mobilise more than four hundred thousand votes in support of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola's governorship ambition in Ogun State ahead of the 2027 general election. The pledge was made during a youth sensitisation programme and the inauguration of hundreds of Polling Unit Marshals across the Ogun East Senatorial District. Convener of the Yayi Youth Vanguard and Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Youth Development, Comrade Olamide Lawal, said each marshal has been assigned the responsibility of mobilising at least seventy-five young voters through grassroots sensitisation and advocacy. Comrade Lawal explained that the initiative is aimed at encouraging greater youth participation in politics and leadership, stressing that active involvement of young people is essential to preparing the state for emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence and technological advancement. He urged Nigerian youths to see politica...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Peoples Democratic Party House of Representatives candidate for Abeokuta North, Obafemi Owode and Odeda Federal Constituency, Arc. Dele Olaleye, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Soyemi Coker. In a condolence message, Arc. Olaleye described the late Coker as an experienced statesman who dedicated his life to public service, democratic governance and the development of Ogun State.  He noted that the former Speaker also served as Chairman of Odeda Local Government and contested for the House of Representatives, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and leadership. Arc. Olaleye said the late politician was more than a political leader to him, describing him as an elder brother through their shared family heritage.  He added that he benefitted greatly from Coker's wise counsel, encouragement and wealth of experience, making his death a personal loss. The PDP chieftain sai...

Aina Obasanjo  The Director-General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to developing netball in Nigeria, with the goal of making the country a dominant force in Africa and a strong contender on the global stage. Hon. Olopade gave the assurance after watching Nigeria's national netball team, the Green Hawks, defeat Pakistan 33–12 in an exhibition match at the Nigeria Diaspora Talents Development Committee multi-sport event held at the Hertfordshire Games Village in the United Kingdom. The victory came just days after the Green Hawks made their international debut against Scotland in Glasgow. Although Nigeria lost the encounter, the experience proved valuable as the team delivered a much-improved performance against Pakistan. Speaking after the match, the NSC Director-General praised the team's display, describing it as encouraging and a clear indication that the country's investment in netball is...

  Aina Obasanjo  The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun One Area Command, has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that smugglers blocked the Atan Road in Ogun State, describing the claims as false and misleading. In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Chado Zakari, on behalf of the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni, the Command explained that the traffic congestion was caused by a road accident. According to the statement, a commercial trailer conveying goods overturned at a badly damaged section of the Atan Road, leading to a major gridlock. The Command clarified that the trucks caught in the traffic were legitimately transporting red palm oil to different local markets and were mistakenly identified by some members of the public as vehicles belonging to smugglers. The Ogun One Area Command urged the public and media organisations to verify information before sha...

  Aina Obasanjo  Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on Sunday paid glowing tribute to his wife, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, as she marked her 60th birthday, describing her as a woman of virtue, compassion, unwavering faith and an indispensable partner whose steadfast support has been central to his life’s journey and public service. Speaking during a special thanksgiving service held in honour of the First Lady at the Government House Chapel, Oke-Igbein, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun thanked God for preserving their family and sustaining them through nearly four decades together.  He also commended his wife for keeping the home front together while he continues to serve the people of Ogun State. The governor expressed gratitude for the gift of their children and the grace that has continually upheld their family, noting that the milestone was a reminder of God’s abiding faithfulness. “I believe that when we think about our lives in terms of the number of days we have lived...