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Ogun 2019: Prominent Ogun State Obas Endorse Bimbo Ashiru

Published

8 years ago

March 9, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

As the race for Ogun State seat of power gathers momentum, top contender and current Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, has begun sensitization tour to drum up support for his ambition.

Ashiru was on November 17, 2017 presented as the preferred candidate from the Ogun West Senatorial district, and endorsed by not a few stake holders.

During his consultation visits during the week, seasoned economist and great achiever visited palaces of prominent obas, who gave their blessings and pledged to stand by him before during and after the electioneering season, when the battle would have been won.

The visits began with homage to the Palaces of three eminent Obas in Ijebu Land, and the moments turned out to be that of praises, blessings and support for his aspiration to succeed his hard working boss Senator Ibikunle Amosun CON, FCA.

The high point of the occasion the decision of Oba (Engr.) Mufutau Kasali, the Moyegeso of Itele-Ijebu to make a turnaround at his palatial residence at Itele-Ijebu and declared his support for the aspiration of the governorship hopeful and prayed for him.

With Oba Amos Awobajo, Limeri of Awa-Ijebu

Oba Kasali had openly opposed the emergence of Ashiru when the Ijebu-Remo Agenda presented him to the Ijebu Obas at the palace of the Awujale of Ijebu land on the 17th of November, 2017. He declared that he had seen the reason Ashiru should continue in the strides of Senator Amosun.

The train moved to the palace of Oba Adesesan Oguntayo FCA, JP, and the story was not different as the monarch eulogised Ashiru’s contributions to the economic developments in the state as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry. He expressed confidence in his abilities, stressing that he believe the performing Commissioner will perform excellently when he succeeds Amosun, especially as it concerns continuity in the ongoing mission to rebuild the state.

At the palace of the Gbegande, Ashiru received a rousing welcome which stated the acceptability of the governorship hopeful. In his words, the Gbegande expressed confidence in Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, having followed him closely in his activities in addition to the long standing relationship he has with the Ashiru Family. He also expressed confidence in the ability of the banker-turned-politician to deliver on his words.

Oba Gbengande also pledged his support and prayed for Otunba Ashiru who was accompanied on the visit by Dr. Gbolade Osinowo former Chief of Staff to late President Musa Yaradua and Alhaji (Dr.) Olusaga Adenusi a Real Estate guru and Accountant.

With the Akarigbo of Remo

There was very clear boost of Ashiru’s aspirations when the train visited the palace of the Alakija of Ikija-Ijebu, His Royal Highness, Oba Kayode Alakija,. The presence of high chiefs and prominent personalities to receive the aspirant was highly commendable.

In his words, Oba Alakija stated that Otunba Ashiru has performed exceptionally well as a Commissioner in the cabinet of Gov. Ibikunle and therefore, is a credible personality who can take Ogun State to greater heights.

“You are credible, you have performed creditably well; you have made us proud as an Ijebu man. Otunba, you are the best man to continue the good job come 2019.”

“We can see your meaningful contributions in the present administration as the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry. Without mincing words, you are the most qualified person to succeed Governor Ibikunle Amosun CON, FCA come 2019,” the Alakija stated.

With Oba Kayode Alakija

The visit also gave Otunba Ashiru the opportunity to highlight some of his programmes which included employment generation, youth empowerment and skill acquisition programmes as priority projects if elected governor in 2019.

The campaign team moved to Odogbolu where the Alaye of Odogbolu, Oba Adedeji Onagoruwa also gave his blessing to the aspiration of the gubernatorial hopeful. Otunba Ashiru also took time to inspect one of the state Investors’ site – the Solis Agro Group, located in Odogbolu Local Government Area.

The Akarigbo of Remoland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, was also on hand to receive Otunba Ashiru and his team in his palace at Sagamu. He said that the emergence of Otunba Ashiru as the consensus candidate of the Ijebu-Remo Agenda is a ‘choice that cannot be faulted’.

In his response, Dr. Gbolade Oshinowo, Special Adviser to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a chieftain of the party in the State thanked the monarch for the reception, stating that Ashiru has been presented to distinguished leaders in the state including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who all testified to his sterling character as someone who is eminently qualified to govern the state and exploit the economic potentials of Ijebu-Remo.

Otunba Bimbo Ashiru congratulated the Akarigbo on his coronation and led others in observing a minute silence in honour of the late wife of Oba Akarigbo, Olori (Dr.) Linga Ajayi.

In his speech, he stressed that professionals are needed in politics so that they can deploy their wealth of experience in governance, adding that the same promoted him as a two-term Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in a state reputed to be the industrial hub of Nigeria to present himself for the plum job.

OBA receiving royal blessings

He stated further that he wants to continue with the good works of Gov. Ibikunke Amosun who he referred to as his boss, friend, brother and mentor, promising to leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Oba Ajayi, who expressed his shock on the huge turnout of followers at the occasion advised the team to further reach out to well-meaning people in other divisions of the state in order to gain their support.

“This is a cause I agree with. The candidate you are putting forward cannot be faulted. He is a man of peace who would not hold anything against you and I will only advise that the team intensify more efforts by working hard to ensure victory. “If you have a good candidate, you still need to work hard to reach your goal”, he said.

In continuation of the consultation, Ashiru moved to Ijebu North Local Government with visits to the palaces of the Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Adewale Adenugba and the Limeri of Awa, Oba Amos Awobajo.

At Ago Iwoye, where Ashiru was received by the monarch, palace chiefs and eminent personalities, he reiterated his motive to contest the governorship election which is a genuine desire to consolidate on the achievements of the present administration through the employment of the experience he has garnered over the years in both private and public sectors.

This, he stated could only be achieved with the support of all, especially community leaders whose positions are very significant in the running of the society.

Hon Ashiru paying homage

He said further that in achieving his set goals for the State, a blueprint tailored to guide his government has been formulated indicating his readiness to hit the ground running once elected.

OBA, as he is known based on his initials, also assured that no area will be left out of the development process as he is aware of the peculiar potentials of each community in the state and Ago Iwoye is not an exception.

In response, the Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Adewale Adenugba welcomed Otunba Ashiru to his domain and urged him to continue to consult widely with the people as democracy is people’s government.

Acknowledging Otunba Bimbo Ashiru as ‘the only best” and “the most qualified” person to succeed incumbent Gov. Amosun, the Ebumare also advised elders on his entourage to guide him on the right path to ensure his emergence.

Oba Amos Awobajo, the Limeri of Awa, in his own response stated that the aspiration of Otunba Bimbo Ashiru could be likened to that of the biblical Moses who took his people out of the wilderness.

According to the traditional, ruler, Otunba Ashiru’s audacity and resoluteness to lead the Ijebu cause and vie for the position of governor is laudable and deserves every support being a beacon of hope for the Ijebu people both home and in the Diaspora. He also charged Otunba Bimbo Ashiru to mobilise notable sons and daughters of Ijebu to strengthen his chances and ensure victory at the general election in 2019.

Among prominent citizens present at the consultations were Pa O. Okuboyejo, Aare Are T.O. Dawodu, Bashorun Adebisi Adesanya, Senator Dipo Odujinrin, Chief Bisi Rodipe, Prof. Toyin Ashiru, Asiwaju Tobi Lawal, Alh.O. Adenusi, Prince Segun Aderibigbe, Hon. Tokunbo Oshin, Chief Jare Dada, and other distinguished personalities.

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Glo Introduces “More Data More Value” Offer to Boost Customers’ Experience

Published

2 hours ago

June 6, 2026

Eric

Determine to enrich the digital experience of its subscribers, Globacom has introduced a new data offer, tagged “More Data More Value only on Glo”. The new offer gives customers as much as 10 percent more data across its bundles as the Nigerian telecom landscape shifts toward a data-led economy.

Globacom explained in a statement that “The new offer is designed to ensure that every Naira spent by a Nigerian consumer yields the highest possible digital return”, thus reinforcing the company’s long-standing reputation for affordability and empowerment.

“More Data More Value” offers a variety of weekly and monthly options planned to balance daytime and night-time usage. The weekly plan includes ₦1,000 option which provides 3.7GB of total data, consisting of 1.7GB main data and 2GB night data, while that of ₦2,000 offers 9GB in total, divided into 6.5GB main data and 2.5GB night data.

The monthly plan also comes with different options including that of ₦1,500 which delivers a total of 5.2GB (2.2GB main data paired with 3GB night data); the ₦2,000 option offering 6.25GB data, a combination of 3.25GB main data and 3GB night data and16.5GB, comprising 14.5GB main data and 2GB night data which goes for N5,000. There is also the ₦10,000 and N15,000 options, with N10,000 providing 42GB total, 38GB main data and 4GB night data, while ₦15,000 offers 64GB in total, consisting of 62GB main data and 2GB night data.

Glo’s enhanced bundles provide the necessary incentive for students, remote workers, and entrepreneurs to browse longer, whether for TikTok trends, Instagram aesthetics, YouTube streaming, or high-stakes gaming and stream without fear, ensuring their professional and social lives remain uninterrupted.

These improved bundles from Globacom give entrepreneurs, remote workers, and students the incentive they need to browse longer, whether for high-stakes gaming, YouTube streaming, Instagram aesthetics, or TikTok trends, and stream on end, while ensuring seamlessness in their social and professional lives.

Beyond individual users, the “More Data More Value” offer also extend its benefits to families and SMEs. With the reliance of small businesses and households on mobile hotspots for their daily operations, Glo has optimized its offerings to serve as the preferred network for high-volume usage.

The offer also serves as a driver of digital transformation through the Glo Café app. Customers are encouraged to utilize the app for seamless bundle subscriptions, as it allows them to manage their “more than 10% extra” data with ease, thus ensuring rewarding user experience.

“More Data More Value” offer underscores Glo’s commitment to providing the best value-for-money which gives Nigerians the benefit of not compromising on their digital lifestyle

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Otti to Build 35,000-Capacity FIFA-Standard Stadium in Aba

Published

11 hours ago

June 5, 2026

Eric

Abia State governor, Alex Otti, has announced plans to construct a FIFA-standard stadium in Aba with a seating capacity of approximately 35,000, in what is being described as one of the most significant sports infrastructure projects in the State’s development agenda.

The proposed stadium is designed to meet international football standards, making it suitable for hosting top-tier domestic league matches, continental competitions, and other global sporting events.

The facility is expected to feature modern pitch technology, upgraded spectator stands, advanced lighting systems for night games, VIP lounges, media centres, locker rooms, and safety and security installations that align with FIFA requirements.

The project is also expected to include auxiliary facilities such as training pitches, parking spaces, and support buildings that will enhance its overall functionality as a multi-use sports complex.

According to the governor’s vision, the stadium is not just a sports project but part of a broader economic revitalisation plan for Aba.

The city, already known as a major commercial hub in South-eastern Nigeria, is expected to benefit significantly from increased sporting activities, which will drive business for hotels, transport operators, food vendors, and local entrepreneurs.

The initiative is also positioned to strengthen grassroots football development and provide a modern home ground for local teams, especially Enyimba FC, one of Nigeria’s most successful football clubs.

The project is expected to be executed through a structured development approach that may involve partnerships aimed at ensuring timely delivery and high construction standards.

When completed, the stadium is projected to elevate Abia State’s profile in national and African football circles while creating new opportunities for youth engagement, talent development, and sports tourism.

Overall, the Aba stadium plan reflects a strategic push by the state government to combine sports, infrastructure, and economic development into a single long-term growth vision for Abia State.

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June 12: FG Unveils Plans for ‘Modest’ Democracy Day Celebrations

Published

3 days ago

June 3, 2026

Eric

The Federal government has announced plans for a modest commemoration of Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day anniversary, with President Bola Tinubu expected to lead activities by addressing a joint session of the National Assembly and delivering a nationwide presidential broadcast on June 12.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, disclosed this on Tuesday during the inauguration of an Inter-Ministerial Committee charged with coordinating preparations for the annual celebration.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, further disclosed that Akume, who inaugurated the committee at the Shehu Shagari Complex, said that with barely 10 days remaining before the anniversary, members must immediately commence implementation of activities outlined for the event.

According to him, a week-long programme has been scheduled for the celebration, culminating in a Democracy Day Gala Night on June 12.

The activities include a World Press Conference on June 4, Special Juma’at Prayers on June 5, a Special Inter-denominational Church Service on June 7, a Democracy Day Public Lecture on June 9, as well as Youth and Women-Oriented Programmes on June 10.

The SGF stated that the administration remained conscious of prevailing economic realities and its commitment to prudent management of public resources, noting that this year’s events would be deliberately scaled down.

He said the decision reflected the government’s awareness of the current national mood and determination to ensure fiscal responsibility in the execution of public programmes.

Akume also paid tribute to heroes of the June 12 democratic struggle, particularly the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, describing his sacrifice as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey and a foundation upon which the country’s democratic institutions have evolved.

He said the annual observance of Democracy Day serves as an opportunity to honour the memory of those who fought for democratic governance while celebrating Nigeria’s progress in sustaining civilian rule and strengthening democratic institutions.

According to Akume, the occasion will also provide the Tinubu administration an avenue to showcase progress made in consolidating democracy, repositioning key institutions, and implementing reforms aimed at addressing national challenges despite prevailing socio-economic difficulties.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee inaugurated for the anniversary is chaired by the SGF and comprises senior government officials drawn from the executive, security, and administrative sectors.

Members include ministers responsible for Information, Interior, Federal Capital Territory, Health, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Defence, and Budget and Economic Planning, alongside the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, presidential aides, and permanent secretaries.

The committee has been mandated to coordinate and execute all approved Democracy Day activities, engage relevant organisations and stakeholders where necessary, preserve records of the events for historical purposes, and undertake any additional assignments required for the successful delivery of the programme.

Akume further directed subcommittee secretaries to promptly submit budget proposals to facilitate the seamless implementation of the planned activities.

Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, was instituted in honour of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s freest and fairest polls and won by the late MKO Abiola.