Year: 2024

Leadership insights: 40 minutes with Governor Oyebanji (1) By abiodun KOMOLAFE

Emporium Reporters

I recently had the honour of visiting Ekiti State, where I embarked on a self-guided tour to explore the projects completed or underway by Governor Biodun Oyebanji. From the bustling streets of Ado-Ekiti to the quaint towns of Ikere-Ekiti, Ikole-Ekiti and Oke Ako-Ekiti, Oyebanji’s transformative initiatives have inspired optimism among residents, who appreciate his people-first leadership.   As I concluded my tour, I sought out the governor’s perspective on his administration’s progress. Our thoughtful discussion revealed a leader committed to redefining the boundaries of possibility for all Ekiti residents. With…

2025 Budget: A Bold Vision or a High-Risk Gamble? By Lukman Laleye Babalola

Emporium Reporters

On December 18, 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unveiled the 2025 Budget of Restoration, a ₦47.9 trillion spending plan designed to secure peace, rebuild prosperity, and set the country on a path toward sustainable growth. While the budget reflects a bold vision for Nigeria’s future, it raises critical questions about the feasibility of its ambitious goals, the risks involved, and the capacity to effectively implement such a vast plan.   A Record-Breaking Budget   With a 36.8% increase from the previous year, the 2025 budget sets the stage for significant…

Edo Gov celebrates Doris Ogah’s Victory as 45th Miss Nigeria

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated Doris Esiokhayamhe Ogah, an indigene of Edo, on her emergence as the 45th Miss Nigeria.   Miss Ogah, a lawyer and gender advocate, represented the South-South Geopolitical Zone during the pageant and brought pride and honor to her home state with her remarkable victory.   In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described Miss Ogah’s achievement as a reflection of her intelligence, charm, and outstanding talents. He also commended her for using…

Yuletide: CAC Distributes Food Items to Staff Nationwide

Lukman Laleye Babalola

In a bid to spread festive joy and ensure a memorable Christmas and New Year celebration for its workforce, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has commenced the distribution of food items across its offices nationwide. The initiative, which is supervised by the Human Resources Department, is designed to ensure a seamless and orderly process, with distribution carried out according to staff ranks. Speaking on the exercise, some beneficiaries commended the Commission’s management, described the gesture as a morale booster that would enhance their celebrations. They also expressed gratitude to the…

Edo State Assembly Backs Gov Okpebholo on suspension of Council Chairmen amidst allegations

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Edo State House of Assembly has endorsed the recommendation of Governor Monday Okpebholo to suspend all 18 local government chairmen in the state. The decision, which has sparked widespread debate, is being justified by the state government as a necessary measure to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.   Addressing the matter, Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, clarified that the suspension is a procedural step to allow for investigations into alleged misconduct and not a punitive action.   “The Governor’s request to the House of…

NCC EVC highlights importance of A2P Messaging Regulation at Virtual Stakeholders’ Forum

Lukman Laleye Babalola

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) today hosted a virtual Stakeholders’ Forum, where the Executive Vice Chairman (EVC), Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the critical role of regulated Application-to-Person (A2P) messaging in advancing socio-economic development across Nigeria. Mrs. Chizua Whyte, Ag. Head of Legal & Regulatory Services, NCC, delivered the remarks on behalf of the EVC, addressing the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework for the rapidly growing sector. In her address, Mrs. Whyte stressed that while A2P messaging offers immense value, it is crucial to establish clear guidelines to protect consumers,…

NIMC warns against extortion in NIN Enrollment, assures Public of Free Service

Emporium Reporters

The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has reiterated that the enrollment for the National Identification Number (NIN) remained free of charge, urged the public to be cautious of individuals demanding money for the service. In a statement released on December 20, 2024, the NIMC emphasized that neither its staff nor its Front-End Partners (FEPs) are authorized to collect any fees from applicants. The Commission has taken a firm stance against any form of extortion, directing security agencies to track down and sanction anyone caught engaging in such illegal practices. “The…

Speaker Abbas mourns Victims of Ibadan Funfair Stampede, calls for Investigati

Emporium Reporters

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic stampede at a funfair in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of 35 children and left six others injured.   In a condolence message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, Speaker Abbas described the incident as a heartbreaking tragedy. He extended his sympathies to the government and people of Oyo State, particularly the families of the deceased.   While mourning the victims, the Speaker called…

Tinubu mourns passing of Hajiya Rafat Idris Salami, Condoles with NUJ and IPI

Emporium Reporters

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his condolences to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the International Press Institute (IPI) following the death of Hajiya Rafat Idris Salami, the newly elected Treasurer of IPI.   In a statement released by his office on December 20, 2024, President Tinubu acknowledged the profound impact of Hajiya Salami’s passing on the journalistic community and beyond, highlighting her dedication to journalism and her advocacy for women’s and children’s rights.   Hajiya Salami, who also served as the Secretary of the NUJ, Abuja Council,…

Ogbona Community to inaugurate State-of-the-Art Police Headquarters, ICT-Data Centre …… hails Peter Dunia, Ogbona Youth Forum

Emporium Reporters

Ogbona community in Etsako Central Local Government Area is set to celebrate a major milestone with the inauguration of a modern Divisional Police Headquarters (DPHQ) and an advanced ICT-Data Centre, courtesy of Peter Omoh Dunia, a prominent oil and gas magnate, and the Ogbona Youth Forum (OYF). The event, scheduled for Saturday, December 21, will be graced by Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, along with key dignitaries from government and security agencies.   The multi-million naira project, aimed at boosting security in the region, is the result of a…