Oyo Abduction: NBA Demands Swift Government Action, Safe Return Of Victims

  The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, has called on governments at all levels to rise to their constitutional responsibility of protecting the lives and property of citizens following the recent abduction incident in Oriire area of Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The association made the call in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Chairman of the NBA Ibadan Branch, Barrister Ibrahim Lawal. According to the statement, members of the association joined other Nigerians in condemning “unequivocally, the savagery visited by some criminals on the quiet community of Orire in Ogbomoso.” The NBA described the incident involving teachers and pupils as heartbreaking, praying for the repose of the souls of those who reportedly lost their lives in the attack. The association, however, expressed dissatisfaction over what it described as the slow pace of the rescue mission, noting that more than ten days after the incident, there had been no significant breakthrough publicly communicated by the authorities. “The NBA would like to register deep displeasure at the seeming tardiness associated with the government rescue mission since this unfortunate incident occurred over ten days ago,” the statement read. “It is reasonable to expect that this latest assault on civility will be confronted headlong. The deafening silence attending the activities aimed at liberating the captives does not inspire hope.” The legal body further stated that although security agencies may be strategically withholding operational details from the public, the prolonged silence from government officials had become disturbing. “We shudder to imagine the horrible experiences to which the victims are being subjected at the moment,” the association added. The NBA warned that such acts of criminality must not be allowed to thrive in what was once considered a peaceful environment, stressing that perpetrators and their sponsors must be identified and brought to justice. It urged both the Federal Government and the Oyo State Government to move beyond what it termed “ineffectual reactions” to worsening insecurity across the country. “This is not the time when functionaries of government present bland platitudes as reassurance,” the statement said. “The good people of Oyo State anticipate an acceptable resolution to the current disruption of peace. They expect the return of the victims soon.” The association also advised the Oyo State Government to adopt proactive security measures to curb rising criminal activities in the state. Among its recommendations were stricter regulation of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, and closer monitoring of the influx of unidentified individuals into the state. “The operations of commercial motorcyclists must be regulated vigorously. A suspension of their operations for a stipulated period to ascertain the identity of operators should be considered,” the statement noted. It further called for thorough combing of forest reserves across the state to flush out criminal elements allegedly using such areas as hideouts. The NBA warned that citizens might resort to self-help if criminals continued to operate freely without consequences. “The ease with which criminals attack communities and escape justice should be a source of great concern to us all,” the statement added. The association concluded by urging both federal and state authorities to expedite efforts toward the safe rescue and return of all victims, stressing that the welfare and security of citizens remain the primary responsibility of government.

Itansan ArtFest 2026 Opens Bigger Career Doors For Young Models

Itansan ArtFest 2026 Opens Bigger Career Doors For Young Models

  Young models and emerging fashion creatives have been encouraged to embrace cultural fashion and artistic expression as pathways to broader career opportunities in the creative industry. The charge was given during the maiden edition of Itansan ArtFest 2026 held on Saturday at the Adeline Hall of Lead City University, Ibadan, where organisers highlighted the role of fashion, performance, and cultural storytelling in empowering youths and creating sustainable careers. The festival, themed “Beacon of the Ancestors,” featured colourful fashion parades, cultural displays, theatre performances, exhibitions, workshops, and stage presentations that showcased African heritage and creativity. Speaking at the event, the convener, Adekunle Elizabeth Adewunmi, popularly known as Adewunmi Itansan, said the initiative was designed not only to preserve cultural identity but also to create platforms where young talents could thrive professionally. According to her, many young creatives, especially models and performers, often struggle to access opportunities capable of projecting them beyond local spaces despite their talents and creativity. She explained that Itansan ArtFest was created to bridge that gap by exposing participants to industry stakeholders, cultural entrepreneurs, curators, and audiences who appreciate African-inspired creativity. “We wanted to create a platform where young people can showcase their creativity confidently while remaining connected to their roots. Fashion, modelling, theatre, and art are not just forms of entertainment; they are career opportunities and tools for cultural preservation,” she said. Adewunmi noted that the festival provided young models with the opportunity to participate in professionally coordinated fashion showcases inspired by African traditions, fabrics, and storytelling. She added that beyond the runway, participants were exposed to networking opportunities, mentorship, and creative collaborations capable of opening doors within the fashion and entertainment industries. According to her, many youths have talent but lack platforms that can give them visibility and professional direction. “We are building a generation of creatives who understand that culture can also create jobs, build brands, and open international opportunities,” she added. The convener further stressed the need for young people to see cultural fashion and artistic expression as viable economic ventures capable of contributing to personal growth and national development. Some of the participants who spoke during the event described the festival as an eye-opening experience that allowed them to gain confidence, showcase their skills, and connect with professionals within the creative space. The event also featured the launch of the cultural book Emissaries of the Gods (Iko Orisa), cultural workshops, trade exhibitions, and theatrical performances aimed at promoting indigenous heritage among younger generations. Among dignitaries present at the festival were the Osun State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ojo Abiodun; the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun; Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja; renowned artist and curator, Tunde Odunlade; and Adekunle Alonge. The names of the young models that made their debut at the fashion parade show at the event are as follows, Olaleye Adeola, Wusu Mccarthy and Mckenzie, Oguntola Diamond, Adekunle Adewale.

NABTEB Extends 2026 Common Entrance Registration, Reschedules Exam to June 13

  The National Business and Technical Examinations Board has announced an extension of the registration deadline for the 2026 National Common Entrance Examination into technical colleges nationwide until May 31. The board also announced a shift in the examination date from June 6 to June 13. This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin by the board’s Assistant Director, Media and Protocol, Mr Uchechukwu Olisah. According to him, the approval for the extension was conveyed by the Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of NABTEB, Dr Aminu Mohammed. He noted that the approval was communicated through an internal memorandum signed by the Director of Examinations Administration, Ms Chigoziem Metu. “With this extension, the registration for the National Common Entrance Examination will close on Sunday, May 31, while the examination earlier scheduled for Saturday, June 6, will now hold on Saturday, June 13,” he said. The board’s spokesperson explained that the extension followed requests from prospective candidates seeking additional time to complete their registration processes. He said the registrar expected candidates to take advantage of the extension to conclude all registration formalities before the new deadline. Olisah quoted Mohammed as encouraging entrepreneurially inclined students and candidates seeking admission into technical colleges to register for and participate in NABTEB examinations. The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the examination is conducted for admission into technical colleges across the country.  

Gunmen Attack Worship Centre, Kill Three, Abduct 15 in Kwara

  The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed that three worshippers were killed and 15 others abducted after armed attackers launched a deadly assault on a prayer ground in Ekiti Local Government Area of the state. The attack occurred on Saturday night at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, located on the outskirts of Ikiran Village in the Ikerin/Ajuba axis of the local government area, throwing surrounding communities into panic. Sources in the area had earlier disclosed that terrorists stormed the community in large numbers, attacking worshippers and residents before fleeing through nearby forest routes. A resident told The Many villagers spent the night searching for missing relatives and loved ones after the assailants escaped from the area. He said, “People were running in different directions because of the gunshots. Some families could not even find their relatives until this morning.” Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Sunday in Ilorin by the spokesperson for the Kwara State Police Command, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, the Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, described the attack as gruesome and condemnable. The statement read, “The Kwara State Police Command strongly condemns the gruesome attack, killing, and abduction of innocent worshippers by armed criminals at Ori-Oke Ajaiye, located on the outskirts of Ikiran Village in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.” Speaking on the development, the Commissioner of Police explained that the incident was reported to the authorities by Pastor Adebayo Abiodun of Ijo Ajaye Ati Igbala, Ekerin Village, who was conducting a night vigil with members of his congregation when the gunmen struck. He said, “While conducting a night vigil alongside members of his congregation at Ori-Oke Ijaye via Ekerin village, armed hoodlums invaded the prayer ground, firing sporadically.” He confirmed that three persons were killed during the attack, while 15 others were taken away to an unknown destination by the gunmen. According to the police boss, operatives attached to the Ekiti Division were immediately mobilised to the scene after the distress report was received. “Upon receipt of the distress report, the Divisional Police Officer, Ekiti Division, immediately mobilised operatives to the scene,” he said. Adekimi further disclosed that he has ordered a coordinated tactical and intelligence-driven rescue operation to secure the release of the abducted victims and apprehend those behind the attack. “A comprehensive tactical and intelligence-driven operation involving the Police Drone Team, PMF personnel, Intelligence Units, and other operational assets has been deployed for a coordinated rescue mission,” he noted. The police commissioner described the attack as barbaric, assuring residents that the command remained committed to restoring security in the affected communities. “The command is fully committed to ensuring the rescue of all victims and the apprehension of the perpetrators behind the heinous act,” he promised. The police boss also assured residents of Ekiti Local Government Area and the wider Kwara community that security operatives had intensified bush combing and intelligence gathering across the area. He said, “Vigorous efforts are ongoing, including bush combing, intelligence gathering, and coordinated security operations to track down the assailants and bring them to justice,” the statement added. The command urged members of the public to remain calm and support security agencies with credible information that could aid ongoing rescue and security operations. The latest attack comes amid recurring assaults on worship centres in Kwara South. In November 2025, armed bandits attacked the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, in Eruku, Ekiti LGA, killing three worshippers and abducting 38 congregants before the victims were later rescued after a security operation. In March 2026, another ECWA church in Omugo, Ifelodun LGA was attacked, with eleven worshippers abducted before a joint security response led to the rescue of three victims, while the other eight remain in captivity as of press time. Both incidents heightened fear in rural communities and led to intensified security operations across forested areas in Kwara State.  

Oyo State: How OYRLEA Is Redefining Conflict Resolution, Environmental Enforcement And Public Order|•By KAZEEM AWOJOODU 

  IBADAN – IN many rural communities across Oyo State, a single cow straying into a cassava farm can spark tensions capable of tearing entire settlements apart. What often begins as a dispute over grazing routes, destroyed crops or access to water sources has, over the years, escalated into violent clashes, displacement and deep ethnic mistrust between farmers and herders. Like several states across Nigeria, Oyo has struggled with the recurring crisis between crop farmers and cattle rearers. From the agrarian belt of Ibarapa to communities in Oke-Ogun and parts of Ibadan, allegations of farmland destruction, illegal grazing, cattle rustling, kidnapping and reprisals have repeatedly threatened peace and economic stability. For many residents, the crisis gradually evolved beyond an agricultural concern into a major governance and security challenge demanding urgent state intervention. Faced with growing public pressure for stricter enforcement of laws and improved conflict management, the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde introduced what many now describe as one of the boldest institutional reforms in the state’s recent history, the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA). Today, the agency is emerging as a central pillar in the government’s broader attempt to restore order, strengthen environmental enforcement and promote peaceful coexistence across Oyo State.   •Birth Of A New Enforcement Authority   The Oyo Rule of Law Enforcement Authority was approved in December 2023 as part of wider reforms aimed at improving compliance with environmental, traffic and public order regulations. The agency later received legal backing in April 2024 when Governor Makinde signed the establishment bill into law, while its governing board, chaired by retired Justice Aderonke Aderemi, was inaugurated in August 2024. Unlike conventional security agencies primarily focused on criminal offences, OYRLEA was conceived as a civil enforcement institution responsible for ensuring lawful conduct in public spaces and enforcing existing state regulations. Its responsibilities cover a broad spectrum of public life, including enforcement of anti-open grazing laws, mediation between farmers and herders, environmental sanitation, prevention of road obstruction, regulation of street trading, traffic compliance, pollution control and protection of public health and safety. In essence, the Authority was created to ensure that citizens can coexist peacefully without infringing on the rights, safety and wellbeing of others. For a rapidly urbanising and agriculturally strategic state like Oyo, government officials insist such an institution has become inevitable..   •Tackling The Open Grazing Crisis   Perhaps no aspect of OYRLEA’s operations has drawn more public attention than its enforcement of the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law. Across Nigeria, the anti-open grazing debate remains highly sensitive and politically charged. Supporters of the law argue that uncontrolled cattle movement destroys farms, fuels insecurity and discourages agricultural investment. Many herders, however, contend that inadequate grazing reserves and harsh economic realities make immediate transition difficult. Caught in the middle are rural communities whose survival depends heavily on both farming and livestock activities. Over the years, recurring clashes between farmers and herders have contributed significantly to insecurity in several South-West communities. Oyo authorities eventually realised that enforcement alone would not solve the crisis. Dialogue, mediation and stakeholder engagement became equally necessary. That strategy was evident during a recent stakeholders’ roundtable organised by OYRLEA at the Local Government Service Commission Training Centre in Ibadan. The meeting brought together farmers, herders, livestock dealers, agricultural associations and government officials to deliberate on the implementation of the grazing law and practical ways to prevent future conflicts. Speaking during the engagement, Chairperson of the Authority, retired Justice Aderonke Aderemi, emphasised that peaceful coexistence remains critical to stability and development across communities. She stressed that the law applies equally to both farmers and herders and extends beyond designated farm settlements to privately owned farmlands. According to her, the Makinde administration remains committed to protecting the interests of all residents regardless of ethnicity or occupation. Justice Aderemi also advocated proper ranching systems and lawful land allocation as sustainable alternatives to uncontrolled open grazing, urging herders occupying government lands illegally to vacate such areas and seek legitimate ranching arrangements through the Ministry of Agriculture. One of the most significant outcomes of the meeting was the decision by both farmers and herders to establish a joint conflict-resolution committee, hold periodic dialogue sessions and report unresolved disputes directly to the Authority before tensions escalate into violence. For many observers, the development signals a gradual shift from reactive crisis management to preventive peace-building. Although anti-open grazing enforcement has attracted widespread attention, OYRLEA’s mandate extends far beyond farmer-herder disputes. The Authority has increasingly become active in enforcing environmental and public order laws across the state. In one recent operation in the Yemetu area of Ibadan, the agency arrested and prosecuted an individual for dumping granite and sand on public roads. The offender later pleaded guilty before the Oyo State Special Offences Mobile Court and was fined ₦40,000. According to OYRLEA officials, indiscriminate dumping of construction materials obstructs movement, damages infrastructure and exposes residents to avoidable accidents. Similarly, in Okeho, the Authority intervened in a prolonged noise pollution dispute involving a hotel generator positioned dangerously close to residential buildings. Following scientific assessments conducted alongside officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, the agency confirmed that the noise level exceeded permissible environmental standards. The hotel management was subsequently directed to relocate the generator or face sanctions. For residents who had endured months of environmental discomfort and sleepless nights, the intervention demonstrated how enforcement could directly improve quality of life. Justice Aderemi has consistently maintained that environmental protection and peaceful coexistence are obligations that must be enforced in the broader interest of society. One major factor distinguishing OYRLEA from many conventional enforcement agencies is its emphasis on public sensitisation alongside prosecution. Rather than relying solely on arrests and sanctions, the Authority regularly engages market leaders, transport unions, farmers’ associations, traditional rulers and community stakeholders ahead of major enforcement operations. Officials say the objective is to promote long-term civic responsibility instead of governing through fear and intimidation.The agency also collaborates closely with the Ministry of Environment, … Read more

Oyo Abduction: Terrorists Open Talks, Give Condition

  Suspected terrorists responsible for abducting schoolchildren and teachers from three schools in Esinele, Yamota and Alawusa communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State have reportedly established contact with the state government. Two highly credible sources told our correspondents that the hoodlums refused to speak directly with the families of the victims. “They said they only want to talk to the governor and nobody else. That was the condition they gave for negotiation. So, nobody knows the details and what they are demanding,” a source said. It cannot, however, be confirmed if the negotiation is being done by the governor himself or a representative of the state. But a top source said the communication channel was a relief. “It is not that security agencies don’t know what to do. But the risks are too high. The relief is that at least now, they are talking,” the source said. The demands of the terrorists were being kept discreet in order not to jeopardise the lives of the victims. The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security, Abayomi Fagbenro, declined to comment on the matter. “I can’t give any information at the moment,” he said in a terse message. Fear over fate of toddlers Teachers and pupils, including toddlers aged two and three, were reportedly abducted in three schools last Friday. The victims have now spent eight days in captivity. Families and community leaders say their fears have increased as the rainy season sets in, which makes movement through forests and rough terrains increasingly difficult and dangerous for the captives. Sources within affected communities told Saturday PUNCH that the victims were being moved in thick forests and across states to evade security pressure. They noted that survival for the children in such harsh conditions had become a major source of concern for parents already traumatised by the attack. A community leader, who asked not to be identified because he was not authorised to speak to the press, said residents were in the dark about the whereabouts of the abductees. “We are worried about their safety. We don’t know how they are faring. Children of two-year-old are among the abductees,” the source said. Teachers, pupils abandon classrooms The pupils in public and private primary and secondary schools in Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities like Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure and Dananu had abandoned classrooms following the incident. Findings by our correspondents revealed that school attendance had also dropped drastically across communities as many parents had refused to send their children to school over security concerns. Also, despite assurances from the Oyo State Government, teachers and education workers said fear remained widespread among pupils, parents and school personnel. A teacher at Ikose Primary School, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that attendance had dropped drastically. She said, “All the schools, both private and public, in Ogbomoso have been empty since Monday. Pupils stopped attending school after the Esinele attacks. The matter became worse on Tuesday when some students at Areago Grammar School saw some men in the bush around them hunting squirrels. “The students, because of the Esinele incident, raised the alarm that there were terrorists on the school premises. That led to pandemonium, and everybody started running helter-skelter. One of the pupils was knocked down by a vehicle around the Owode area of Ogbomoso, and he died instantly. His mother also died from shock after hearing about the death of her son. Ogbomoso was turned upside down on Tuesday.” She added, “On Wednesday, only private schools had a few pupils, far below normal attendance. But pupils in public schools did not go at all. All the teachers in my school and other areas in Ogbomoso, Esinele, Yamota, Ikose, Ikoyi, Tewure and others had to return home around 12pm. “The situation became worse on Thursday; the number of teachers and pupils also dropped across the area. We didn’t see any students, while many teachers also did not show up. We left school before 11am.” The source disclosed that all teachers agreed not to go to school on Friday in in honour of a former Assistant Headmaster of L.A. Primary School, Joel Adesiyan, who was killed by the terrorists during the incident. Adesiyan was buried on Friday.

  Pep Guardiola has disclosed that fatigue and a desire for a new challenge played a major role in his decision to depart Manchester City after spending a historic 10 years in charge of the club. Guardiola confirmed that Sunday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa will be his final match as City manager, bringing an end to one of the most successful eras in the club’s history. During his decade at the Etihad Stadium, the Spaniard guided City to 20 trophies, including six Premier League titles and the club’s first UEFA Champions League triumph. Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Friday, Guardiola said he believes the team now needs “new energy” to continue progressing. “I think the club needs a new manager, new energy with these incredible players that we have right now, and you start to write another chapter,” he said. The 55-year-old admitted that the relentless demands of modern football had taken a toll on him after nearly two decades of constant management. “I feel I will not have the energy that is required, every three days, the expectations to fight for the titles, with being in front of the players,” Guardiola explained. Although he will remain linked with the City Football Group in a global ambassadorial role, Guardiola said he plans to step away from coaching for a period. “I will not train for a while,” he stated. Guardiola reflected on the intensity of his managerial career, which began at Barcelona before continuing at Bayern Munich and Manchester City. “It’s not 10 years. I’ve been, except for a year in New York, I’ve been 17, 18 years, every three days, three days, three days,” he said. “I need to breathe a little bit and relax. I’ll be a while, that is my feeling right now.” Guardiola leaves Manchester City widely regarded as the most successful manager in the club’s history after transforming the side into a dominant force in English and European football.  

Oyo Attack: Burial of Slain Teacher Begins

Oyo Attack: Burial of Slain Teacher Begins

  The burial arrangements for late Adesiyan Adegboye, one of the teachers killed during the coordinated attack on three schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, commenced on Friday at Ayegun Baptist Church, Ogbomoso. Adegboye, 49, was killed at the scene of the abduction last Friday and is scheduled to be buried later today at his residence in the Owolake area of Ogbomoso. The deceased, born on December 11, 1976, was murdered by the bandits who invaded Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Yawota, Community Grammar School and L.A. Primary School, Esiele, at about 9:30am. PUNCH reports that teachers and students were abducted during the coordinated attacks on the three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. Following the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, visited the scene on Saturday and deployed additional detectives from the Force Headquarters in Abuja to collaborate with the joint security team in ongoing rescue operations. The deployment, according to the police, was aimed at ensuring the safe rescue of the abducted teachers and students. Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed that seven students were abducted from Community Secondary School, while 18 pupils and seven teachers were kidnapped from First Baptist Primary and Nursery School. He also confirmed that one person was killed during the attack. The incident triggered widespread panic in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with many parents rushing to schools to withdraw their children over fears of further attacks. Some schools were also forced to shut down temporarily following rumours of bandits infiltrating the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, an allegation the institution’s management later dismissed as false. Details later…

Oyo SAPZ, AfDB Hold Mid-Term Review Meeting On Project Progress

Oyo SAPZ, AfDB Hold Mid-Term Review Meeting On Project Progress

  A delegation from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the National Coordination Office, led by Mr. Bernard Onzima and Engr. Bashir Gaya, has commended the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA) and the Oyo Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) Project Implementation Unit for the progress recorded in the ongoing SAPZ project in the state. The commendation came during a two-day mid-term review visit to Oyo State, where the delegation inspected key project sites, including the Ijaye Agro-Industrial Hub (AIH). The AfDB team, which commenced the review exercise on Wednesday, expressed satisfaction with the quality of work being executed by Craneburg Construction Company, particularly regarding the utilisation of mobilisation funds disbursed directly by the Bank. According to the delegation, all four components of the SAPZ programme in Oyo State are progressing. The AfDB officials urged stakeholders to sustain the current momentum through stronger collaboration, teamwork and continuous support for consultants handling various aspects of the project to ensure timely delivery. The delegation was received by the Director-General of OYSADA, Dr. Debo Akande, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the agency, Dr. Kola Badmus. Also present was the State SAPZ Coordinator, Mr. Akinwunmi Ajetunmobi, alongside other implementation unit staff involved in the project. The SAPZ programme is structured around four major components aimed at driving sustainable agro-industrial development. The first component focuses on infrastructure development and agro-industrial hub management including the construction of agro-industrial hubs, agricultural transformation centres, roads, power and water facilities, and waste management systems to create investment-ready environments for agribusinesses. The second component centres on agricultural productivity and value chain development through support for farmers and small-scale enterprises. This includes input supply, mechanisation services, extension support, climate-smart agriculture training, cooperative strengthening and market linkages for priority commodities such as cassava, maize and poultry in Oyo State. The third component addresses institutional strengthening and capacity building through training programmes for youths and women in agribusiness and agro-processing, as well as support for state agencies, farmer organisations and investment promotion initiatives. The fourth component focuses on programme coordination, management and monitoring and evaluation to ensure accountability, environmental and social safeguards compliance, effective reporting and stakeholder engagement. The first phase of the SAPZ programme is currently being implemented in seven states – Cross River, Imo, Kaduna, Kano, Kwara, Ogun and Oyo – as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The initiative is designed to promote inclusive and sustainable agro-industrial development by increasing agricultural productivity, encouraging value addition, expanding market access and attracting private sector investment across selected agricultural value chains. AfDB has continued to play a strategic role in transforming agriculture across Africa into a globally competitive sector and a major driver of sustainable economic growth. The SAPZ programme is also expected to strengthen synergy with ongoing and completed AfDB-funded projects in sectors such as power, transportation, water resources and agriculture, while promoting export growth, import substitution and commercial agriculture through large-scale food processing initiatives.

BREAKING: Tinubu Appoints 39-year-old Professor New JAMB Registrar

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor Segun Aina as the new Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, taking over from Professor Ishaq Oloyede following the end of his tenure on July 31, 2026. The appointment was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the statement, Aina is a professor of Computer Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, with expertise in digital infrastructure, national examination systems and institutional reforms. “Professor Aina, who will be 40 in July, is a distinguished academic and systems expert with extensive experience in national examination systems, digital infrastructure, and public-sector institutional reform. “He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Systems Engineering from the University of Kent, an MSc in Internet Computing and Network Security, and a PhD in Digital Signal Processing, both from Loughborough University, United Kingdom. He has also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School,” the statement read. The statement added that Aina has over 15 years of professional experience advising federal and state governments on digital transition, institutional reforms and system design. It also described him as one of Nigeria’s youngest professors in Computer Engineering, noting that he would become the youngest registrar in JAMB’s history. The Presidency said Aina had previously worked as a consultant to examination bodies, including the National Examinations Council and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board on ICT systems and examination integrity. “He is also a member of professional organisations, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the Institution of Engineering and Technology,” the statement added. Tinubu expressed confidence that the new registrar would build on the achievements recorded under Oloyede’s administration. “President Tinubu expects Professor Aina to bring to bear his vast experience, knowledge and practical insight into the operations of the Board, to take the critical educational organisation beyond the laudable heights achieved by his predecessor,” the statement added.