News Archives - Page 17 of 77

Abducted Oyo APC Chieftain Recounts Ordeal

January 15, 2026 by admin

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Wale Oriade, on Thursday recounted his harrowing experience following his release last Saturday after 39 days in captivity. Oriade, in a statement issued in Ibadan, the state capital, revealed that his abductors spoke fluent English and never disclosed their tribe or identity. Oriade was kidnapped on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, around 7:06 p.m. at his office located at PJ Square Shopping Complex, beside the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited station, Elewure, along Iyana Ajanla, Akala Expressway, New Garage, Ibadan. Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived in a blue Nissan Micra vehicle with two occupants—a driver and an armed man—who forcibly seized Oriade and whisked him away in the same vehicle. “The nature of the attack and the precision with which it was carried out have caused deep concern within his community,” an eyewitness said. Oriade expressed deep gratitude to party leaders, the media, security agencies and well-meaning Nigerians who stood by him during what he described as a difficult and mysterious period. The party chieftain explained, “A Nissan Micra vehicle blocked my car. Four gunmen carrying AK-47 rifles dragged me into their car, covered my face with a cap, and put headphones on me playing loud music while they drove around the city for several hours before we arrived at the place where I was kept in an apartment. “During my ordeal, they interrogated me about my work, family and past engagements. After several weeks in captivity, they began demanding ransom from my family, eventually claiming that an agreement had been reached.” He added, “On January 10, 2026, I was released in a similar manner to my abduction—blindfolded, driven around the city, and dropped off somewhere in Ibadan. I was shocked by the massive support I received.” Oriade noted that even while in captivity, his abductors commented on the widespread media attention his abduction generated. “They told me, ‘Everywhere is full of your story. How can you be this popular and say you don’t have money?’ That gave me hope,” he said. He specifically thanked former Senate Leader and the APC governorship candidate in the 2023 election, Teslim Folarin; the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu; Senators Sharafadeen Ali and Yunus Akintunde; Akin Alabi; Akeem Agbaje; Olamiju Alao-Akala; the state APC Youth Leader, John Aremu; the state APC Publicity Secretary, Wale Sadare; Kareem Tajudeen; and other party leaders who rallied around his family during his captivity. “I want to specially appreciate my brother, Akeem Akogun, for his show of love, and also the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, for his concern; the Director of the Department of State Services; the state Police Command, especially the AKS Department; the APC media team; religious leaders, including the Chief Imam of Ibadan; and community associations that held vigils and prayers for my safe return,” he said. Oriade appealed to anyone he might have wronged in the past, saying, “This is the highest punishment anyone can go through. Please, find it in your heart to forgive me, whoever I might have wronged.” He concluded by expressing heartfelt gratitude to his immediate family and Nigerians at home and abroad who supported his release and uplifted his spirits during a difficult period of his life. The APC chieftain also urged the government to create more job opportunities for youths to enhance productivity, stressing the importance of unity and resilience in overcoming adversity, and expressed optimism for a better future.

No Going Back on January 1 Tax Law Commencement – Tinubu

December 30, 2025 by admin

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday said the implementation of the new tax laws, including those enacted on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will take effect as planned. In a statement he personally signed, Tinubu said the reforms represent “a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation” for the country. The President clarified that the new laws are not intended to increase taxes, but to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract. He urged all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which he said is now “firmly in the delivery stage,” adding that no substantial issue has been identified that warrants a disruption of the reform process. “Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” the statement added. Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws, pledging to work with the National Assembly to resolve any issues promptly. He assured Nigerians that the government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that promotes prosperity and shared responsibility. PUNCH Online had earlier reported that following a high-level meeting with Tinubu on Friday, December 26, 2025, the Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, confirmed that the final implementation phase—specifically covering the Nigeria Tax Act and the Nigeria Tax Administration Act—is firmly on schedule. According to Oyedele, the decision to proceed is rooted in the “pro-people” nature of the laws, which are strategically engineered to shift the tax burden away from the vulnerable. The reforms promise a significant economic cushion, with the government projecting that nearly 98% of Nigerian workers and 97% of small businesses will either be fully exempt from taxes or see their liabilities drastically reduced.

Dangote Unveils 10-day Credit Facility for Petrol Station Owners

December 30, 2025 by admin

The Dangote Group has announced a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee for petrol station owners and dealers, alongside free direct delivery and other incentives, as part of a new supply arrangement. The company disclosed this in a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday, inviting petrol station operators across the country to register to benefit from the offer. According to the statement, participating dealers will enjoy “a 10-day credit facility backed by a bank guarantee,” with a minimum order requirement of 5,000 litres. “Our free direct delivery service will commence soon,” the group said, adding that the offer is open to “all petrol station owners and dealers.” The Dangote Group further called on operators to register their stations to access the supply arrangement. “Register your petrol stations today to benefit from our competitive gantry price,” the statement read. The company also disclosed that petrol supplied under the arrangement will be sold at a gantry price of ₦699 per litre. For enquiries, the group provided the following contact numbers: 0802-347-0470, 0809-324-7070, 0809-324-7071 and 0203. The announcement follows a recent petrol price adjustment by the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. The refinery reduced its ex-depot petrol price from ₦828 to ₦699 per litre, representing a ₦129 cut or a 15.58 per cent reduction. An official of the refinery, who spoke to PUNCH Online on condition of anonymity, confirmed the adjustment, saying, “The refinery has reduced petrol gantry price to ₦699 per litre.” The new price reportedly took effect on December 11, 2025, marking the 20th petrol price adjustment announced by the refinery this year.

Dangote Petitions ICPC Over NMDPRA CEO, Commission Confirms

December 16, 2025 by admin

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has confirmed receipt of a petition from businessman Aliko Dangote against the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed. In a statement signed by its spokesperson, John Odey, on Tuesday, the anti-graft agency said the petition was submitted through Dangote’s lawyer earlier in the day. “The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) writes to confirm that it received a formal petition today, Tuesday, 16th December, 2025, from Alhaji Aliko Dangote through his lawyer. The petition is against the CEO of the NMDPRA, Alhaji Farouk Ahmed,” the commission said. The ICPC added that the petition would be subjected to due investigation. PUNCH Online had reported that in the petition dated and submitted on December 16 through his lawyer, Ogwu Onoja, SAN, Dangote accused the NMDPRA CEO of corruption and misuse of public funds. Among other allegations, he alleges that Farouk spent over $7 million in public funds on his four children’s education at elite Swiss schools, with fees paid upfront for up to six years. “That Engr Farouk Ahmed spent without evidence of lawful means of income humongous amount of money of over 7million dollars of Public funds, for the education of his four children in different schools in Switzerland for a period of six years upfront,” the petition read. This expenditure, Dangote claims, lacks evidence of lawful income sources and constitutes embezzlement, diversion of funds, and abuse of office. He therefore urged the Commission to act decisively by investigating the allegations against Farouk and prosecuting him if found culpable, stressing that the matter is already in the public domain. The move intensifies an ongoing public dispute between Dangote’s refinery operations and the regulatory body tasked with overseeing Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

Labour Claims Plot to Sabotage Protest, Threatens Indefinite Strike

December 16, 2025 by admin

The Nigeria Labour Congress, on Tuesday, warned that any attempt to interfere with Wednesday’s National Day of Protest and mourning could spark a nationwide indefinite strike. Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, said in a statement that the union had received intelligence suggesting that unscrupulous agencies and desperate political hirelings might try to infiltrate or violently disrupt the demonstrations. He added that harming even a single worker or citizen would trigger an immediate and indefinite shutdown across all sectors of the economy. “Our action tomorrow is not just a mere procession; it is a collective act of grief, a roar of despair from the oppressed, and a democratic demand for the fundamental right to life and security,” the statement read. The union highlighted the deaths of countless members, teachers, farmers, miners, and other artisans amid escalating insecurity and government inaction. The union urged all workers, students, traders, and citizens to remain disciplined, peaceful, and united. “Solidarity is our shield,” it said. The NLC also called on the police, who have been informed of the protest, to protect citizens’ democratic right to assemble and express their grievances. The protest, first announced following the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting on December 4, 2025, is intended as a response to a wide range of national crises. The NEC had expressed serious concern over the country’s worsening security situation, including the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State on 17 November 2025, during which two staff members were killed. The union condemned the withdrawal of security personnel prior to the attack and called for urgent government intervention. According to the World Bank’s Nigeria Development Update, released in October 2025, approximately 139 million Nigerians, about 61–62 per cent of the population, are living in poverty, a sharp increase from previous years. The NEC criticised the Federal Government’s use of divide-and-rule tactics, which undermine union unity and stall negotiations. It urged the government to implement a fair and uniform remuneration framework for all university workers while recognising the unique needs of different professional groups. The ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions, which began on 14 November 2025, was also reviewed. The NLC expressed concern over the withdrawal of nurses from the industrial action and warned that, should negotiations fail, it and its affiliates would join the strike in full solidarity. The NEC also directed the revival of the Labour–Civil Society Coalition, originally formed under Adams Oshiomhole, to strengthen collaboration between labour organisations and civil society in addressing national issues. On political matters, the NLC criticised the Labour Party, stating that it had been hijacked by mercantile interests through the Nenadi Usman-led Caretaker Committee. The union resolved to withdraw from these committees and focus on building coalitions with parties whose ideologies align with working-class principles, while continuing to engage with the Labour Party where possible. The NLC warned those plotting to disrupt tomorrow’s protest to desist immediately. Any attack on peaceful protesters will be treated as a direct declaration of war on the entire Nigerian working class and its allies. The union emphasised that if even a single worker, comrade, or citizen is harmed during the protest, the NLC will declare an immediate, comprehensive, and indefinite nationwide strike, shutting down all production, services, and sectors of the national economy. “Any attack on our protest will be an attack on the very engine of Nigeria. The consequence will be an escalation and a total shutdown,” the union stated.

From Eight-Year-Old At Creation To Governor At 50: Makinde Unveils Oyo @50 Logo

December 15, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – OYO State, created on February 3, 1976, on Monday, December 15, 2025, officially commenced activities marking its Golden Jubilee with the unveiling of the Oyo @50 anniversary logo, an event presided over by the state’s eighteenth and incumbent Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde. The ceremony, held at Governors Office Car Park, Secretariat, Ibadan, formally signalled the countdown to the state’s 50th anniversary, with government officials, traditional rulers and dignitaries from across various sectors in attendance. Governor Makinde, who was just eight years old when Oyo State was created, unveiled the anniversary logo alongside top government functionaries and royal fathers, describing the moment as symbolic of the state’s journey through resilience, progress and promise over the past five decades. Since its creation, Oyo State has been governed by 18 leaders, comprising six military governors, four sole administrators and eight executive governors, including the incumbent. Those who have administered the state include: Col. David Jemibewon (March 1976–1978); Col. Paul Chabri Tarfa (July 1978–October 1979); Chief Bola Ige, the first civilian governor (October 1979–October 1983); Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo (October 1983–December 1983); Lt. Col. Oladayo Popoola (January 1984–September 1985); Col. Adetunji Idowu Olurin (September 1985–July 1988); Col. Sasaenia Oresanya (July 1988–August 1990); Col. Abdulkareem Adisa (September 1990–January 1992); Chief Kolapo Olawuyi Ishola (January 1992–November 1993); Navy Capt. Adetoye Oyetola Sode (December 1993–September 1994); Col. Chinyere Ike Nwosu (September 1994–August 1996); Col. Ahmed Usman (August 1996–August 1998); CP Amen Edore Oyakhire (August 1998–May 1999); Late Dr. Lam Adesina (May 1999–May 2003); Senator Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (May 2003–May 2007); Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala (May 2007–May 2011); Late Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the first two-term governor (May 2011–May 2019). In his address, Governor Makinde said Oyo State has every reason to celebrate as it approaches its 50th year of existence, describing the anniversary as a shared story and collective legacy. “Today is not just another day on the calendar. It is a symbolic milestone. In 50 days, our dear state will mark 50 years of existence, resilience, heritage, progress and promise,” the governor said. Makinde assured residents that the Golden Jubilee celebration would be inclusive, reflective and forward-looking, featuring cultural exhibitions, intellectual engagements, community-based activities and youth-focused programmes aimed at strengthening unity and shared aspirations across the state. He described Oyo State as a pillar of excellence in Nigeria, highlighting its cultural heritage and contributions to education, governance, commerce and national development. Responding to criticisms surrounding some infrastructural projects of his administration, including the Ibadan Circular Road named after Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the governor said leadership often requires making difficult decisions that may not immediately attract public applause but are necessary for sustainable development. According to him, he is willing to take more “bullets” now so that future administrations can inherit a stronger and better-structured state. A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of the official Oyo @50 logo, which Makinde said emerged from an open and competitive process involving public submissions. The winning design, created by Mr. Ajayi Olaleye, was selected for its reflection of the state’s identity, values and pace-setting history. Olaleye received a prize of ₦1.5 million. Chairman of the anniversary planning committee, Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fideli, commended the governor for assembling a diverse team to drive the celebration, revealing that research conducted by the committee showed that about 80 percent of residents are eagerly anticipating the Golden Jubilee. Goodwill messages were delivered by notable Nigerians, including former Minister of Industry, Chief Mrs. Onikepo Akande, and Chief Bayo Oyero, who praised Makinde for what they described as the transformation of modern Oyo State. Traditional rulers in attendance included representatives of the Alaafin of Oyo, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Laoye, the Okere of Saki, the Onpetu of Ijeru, among others.

Students, Management Fume Over ‘Bandits Prank’ Filmed at Lagos Varsity

December 11, 2025 by admin

The Lagos State University community has reacted angrily to a viral prank video in which a group of young men dressed in costumes resembling extremist fighters stormed the campus, causing panic among students. The footage, uploaded on December 5 by Datreez Entertainment TV and titled “Bandits Prank on Lasuites”, showed individuals wearing turbans and desert-style clothing associated with terrorist groups. A behind-the-scenes clip captured them dressing up before jumping into a vehicle and driving chaotically into a crowd of students while a camera operator recorded reactions. Students were seen fleeing and expressing fear, coming at a period when school attacks in parts of Niger and Kebbi States have heightened public anxiety. Checks by PUNCH Online on Thursday showed that the controversial video had been removed from the creator’s page, which has over 3,400 followers and 164,000 likes, although it is still on a creator’s page who claims to be part of the group. In its place, an apology was published in a formal statement on Sunday, Datreez Entertainment International said the entire production was staged. According to the statement, “The content was strictly a social experiment created purely for entertainment purposes. “Every scene, action, and reaction captured in the video was fully staged, involving participants who were aware of the concept and voluntarily part of the production.” The group added that “no member of the public was placed in danger, harmed, or subjected to distress,” and it also apologised for its insensitivity, noting that “Nigeria is currently dealing with sensitive security challenges”. It stated, “We sincerely regret any anxiety, fear, or discomfort the video may have triggered. This was never our intention. “We tender our unreserved apology to the Management of Lagos State University.” The prank has triggered backlash among student content creators, many of whom said it had led to tightened restrictions on campus. On Tuesday, a popular student creator, Anuoluwapo, criticised the act in a video shared on TikTok. “This thing does not make sense. When I saw the video, I could not even continue watching it. “For days now, security officers have been seizing students’ phones and tripods. You cannot even create content freely again on campus. See what this has caused.” He added, “The school supports content creators, but this prank has taken us backwards. Normally, adults do not like content creation, but we the Gen Zs have been trying to make them see its importance. These people have spoiled things.” Other TikTok creators who study at LASU, including Tush Agbero and Temmytayo GP, also posted videos lamenting what they described as stricter monitoring of students on campus. PUNCH Online, however, could not independently confirm whether enforcement measures have formally been introduced. In a statement issued on Sunday, LASU dissociated itself from the recording and described it as unauthorised and unacceptable. “The University did not give any form of approval, authorisation, or endorsement for the recording of the said video,” the statement signed by the Deputy Registrar, Centre for Information and Public Relations, Mrs Thomas-Onashile Oluwayemisi, read. It added, “LASU strongly condemns acts or content that portray or suggest banditry, terrorism, or violent extremism. “The University does not support or encourage any prank that can incite fear, disrupt campus peace, or threaten the sense of safety of its students and staff.” The institution urged students to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to its security unit. LASU, known for its vibrant community of young content creators, has in recent years become a hub for online student-led productions. The prank has now fuelled conversations about the boundaries of creativity and safety on campus. Recall the University of Lagos Akoka, in October had prohibited the unauthorised use of its campus, including hostels and other facilities, for video production by skitmakers, filmmakers, and content creators. According to the management, they aim to protect the academic environment and preserve the institution’s image from misrepresentation in unregulated productions.

Olubadan to Elevate Makinde’s Brother, Eight Other Chiefs Friday

December 10, 2025 by admin

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, will on Friday elevate Governor Seyi Makinde’s elder brother, Olumuyiwa Makinde, and eight other chiefs in the Otun Olubadan line. Makinde, an Ibadan-based lawyer, will move from Aare Onibon to Gbonka Olubadan, while businessman and engineer Dotun Sanusi will be promoted from Ajia to Bada Olubadan. A statement by the Olubadan’s media aide, Adeola Oloko, on Wednesday said the ceremony will begin at 11 am at the Oke-Aremo Palace in Ibadan North Local Government Area, with members of the Olubadan-in-Council expected to attend. Oba Ladoja performed his first official traditional function on November 7, when he elevated five chiefs in the Olubadan line. Those elevated at the time included Osi Olubadan, Oba Eddy Oyewole-Foko, who became Otun Olubadan; Asipa Olubadan, Oba Kola Daisi, now Osi Olubadan; and Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Hamidu Ajibade, promoted to Asipa Olubadan. Others were Oba Muritala Akande, who moved from Ekarun to Ekerin Olubadan, and Chief Kola Babalola, who rose from Abese to Ekarun Olubadan. Oba Ladoja ascended the throne following the death of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on July 7, 2025, at the age of 90. According to Wednesday’s statement, House of Representatives member Akin Alabi will move from Jagun to Ajia Olubadan, while promotion from Mogaji to the competitive Jagun title has been suspended until further notice. The statement read, “The affected chiefs include an Ibadan-based lawyer and the state Governor’s elder brother, Olumuyiwa Makinde, who would be promoted from Aare Onibon to Gbonka Olubadan, while the renowned engineer and business titan, Dotun Sanusi, would be promoted from Ajia to Bada Olubadan. “Similarly, House of Representatives member, Akin Alabi, would be elevated from Jagun to Ajia Olubadan. “The promotion from Mogaji to the highly competitive Jagun Olubadan title would not hold until further notice. “The rest of the Chiefs due for promotion are as follows: Chief Dauda Gbadamosi from Aare Ago to Ayingun Olubadan; Chief William Akande from Lagunna to Aare Ago Olubadan, Chief Oluyinka Akande from Oota to Lagunna Olubadan, Chief Olufemi Ogunwale from Aare-egbe Omo to Oota Olubadan “Chief Wasiu Aderoju Alaadorin from Gbonka to Aare-egbe Omo Olubadan and Chief Abiola Anlamole from Badato Aare Onibon Olubadan.”

Senate Approves Tinubu’s Request to Deploy Troops in Benin

December 9, 2025 by admin

The Senate has given its approval for President Bola Tinubu’s request to send Nigerian troops to the Republic of Benin as part of efforts to help restore calm and stability after last weekend’s attempted military takeover. The endorsement was announced on Tuesday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, following a review of the president’s letter in the Committee of the Whole, in accordance with Section 5, Part II of the Constitution, Channels reports. Lawmakers voted unanimously to support the deployment, effectively granting parliamentary authorisation for the regional security mission. Akpabio hailed the resolution as timely, stressing that unrest in any neighbouring country could easily destabilise the wider region. “An injury to one is an injury to all,” he stated. He added that Nigeria has an obligation to stand with its partners under the Economic Community of West African States framework. The Senate is expected to immediately forward its formal approval to Tinubu. Tinubu, in his letter to the upper chamber, had requested permission for the deployment, noting that Nigeria bears a historic responsibility to assist Benin under existing ECOWAS security arrangements. He warned that the situation requires “urgent external intervention” to prevent further deterioration. The attempted coup in Benin occurred on Sunday when a faction of soldiers identifying themselves as the “Military Committee for Refoundation” appeared on national television to declare that they had resolved that “Mr Patrice Talon is removed from office as president of the republic”. The move was swiftly contained, as Benin’s loyal military forces pushed back and reclaimed control. “The regular army is regaining control. The city (Cotonou) and the country are completely secure. It’s just a matter of time before everything returns to normal. The clean-up is progressing well,” sources close to Talon said. Following the failed takeover, ECOWAS announced plans to deploy its standby force. “After consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government, the Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect,” the bloc stated. “The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, and the Republic of Ghana. “The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin”

Oyo Govt Celebrates PEPVAN’s 10 Years, Assures of Stronger Future Alliance

December 8, 2025 by admin

Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the state’s event industry, describing the Professional Event Planners and Vendors Association of Nigeria (PEPVAN) as a critical partner in its drive to professionalize the sector. This assurance was given by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatubosun, at the 10th anniversary celebration of PEPVAN held in Ibadan. The event marked a decade of the association’s growth, collaboration, and contributions to the creative economy. Olatubosun commended PEPVAN for promoting professionalism, innovation, and discipline within the industry, noting that the government intends to deepen collaboration with the association in planning and executing state events. “PEPVAN has demonstrated professionalism, creativity, and discipline. As a key partner, the government will engage them in all state events. Our policies will strengthen the sector and further boost the state’s economy,” he said. The Commissioner highlighted the economic potential of the event industry and underscored the need to curb quackery and unregulated operations. “We recognize the challenges within the industry, including unregistered operators. This is why we are committed to working with credible associations like PEPVAN to set standards, enforce compliance, and support overall growth,” he added. He urged members of the association to uphold ethical standards and maintain excellence in service delivery. “Your success begins with excellence and commitment to your craft. The government will support you, but professionalism must remain your watchword,” he said. According to Olatubosun, the state government is already developing initiatives to support the sector, including training programmes, accreditation support, and full recognition of PEPVAN as a professional body. The Pioneer President of the association, Mr. Mayowa Oloyede said the association’s progress over the last decade demonstrates the need for deeper government engagement. “We want the government to recognize us as an event house and professional body. Most of us live and pay taxes here. We need government patronage and support,” he said. Oloyede recalled the humble beginnings of the association, which he said started with one person who identified the need for an organized platform for event professionals. He noted that despite growth, the industry still battles challenges such as quackery, inadequate manpower, financial constraints, and unfavourable policies. He expressed optimism about the rising profile of Ibadan-based planners. “Ibadan has gained serious momentum. Many of us are well-travelled and exposed, and event planners in Oyo can now compete with anyone globally,” he said. While speaking about the journey of the association so far, the National President of the association, Comrade Adetunji Adekunke popularly known as (Wonders) described the association’s 10-year journey as one defined by resilience, excellence, and unity. Adetunji said, “We have over 500 members nationwide today. In the Southwest, no association can compete with us.” Adekunle said PEPVAN’s collective strength has boosted members’ brands, even contributing to the industry’s recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. On the issue of quackery, he stressed the importance of regular training and inclusivity within the profession. “Event planning is not for women alone. Men are doing well too. Passion, willingness to learn, emotional intelligence, and strong character are essential in this industry,” he said. With government support and the association’s renewed commitment to standards, stakeholders at the event maintained that the next decade holds greater promise for the event industry in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. Highlights of the event include award presentations, cultural dancing, networking, among others.