Society & Lifestyle Archives - Page 12 of 41

NACA to convene national council on AIDS amid global aid shifts

The National Agency for the Control of AIDS has announced plans to convene the seventh National Council on AIDS, which will focus on Nigeria’s HIV response in the context of evolving global aid dynamics.

The agency made this known in a statement signed by the Chairman, Planning Committee, Dr. Daniel Ndukwe, on Thursday.

The event, to be held in Lagos with support from the Lagos State Agency for the Control of AIDS, is themed, “Advancing national HIV sustainability agenda in the changing global policy on aid.”

The meeting is designed to bring together representatives from government ministries, civil society, development partners, and affected communities, with discussions focusing on ensuring the long-term sustainability of HIV prevention, care, and treatment programs nationwide.

The National Council on AIDS, established under the NACA Act of 2006, functions as Nigeria’s apex coordination body for multi-sectoral HIV response. The upcoming seventh session aims to review past progress and chart a strategic direction for future HIV interventions.

Speaking ahead of the event, the Director-General of NACA and Chairman of the Council, Dr. Temitope Ilori, highlighted the importance of sustaining HIV response efforts in the face of shifting donor priorities.

“As donor landscapes evolve, Nigeria must take bold steps to ensure that HIV prevention, treatment, and support remain accessible and resilient. The Council offers us a unified platform to chart that future,” she said.

The meeting will feature three core thematic tracks on advancing the national HIV sustainability agenda in a changing global aid landscape; multi-sectoral approaches to sustainability of HIV and related developmental diseases; and strengthening sub-national structures for sustainability and health systems effectiveness.

In addition to technical sessions, the agenda includes a review of the twelve resolutions adopted at the sixth NCA meeting and an invitation for stakeholders to submit policy and implementation memoranda for consideration.

The seventh NCA is expected to serve as a national platform for aligning efforts across sectors, including TB, malaria, reproductive health, and broader health system strengthening.

FG begins reconstruction of Eastern rail line corridor – NRC

The Nigerian Railway Corporation says the Federal Government has begun reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Eastern railway corridor.

The Railway District Manager, Eastern District, Enugu, Mr Victor Adamu, stated this while responding to a national survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria, on abandonment of railway lines in the country, in Enugu on Wednesday.

Adamu said that the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the narrow gauge tracks had commenced from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to Aba, in Abia State.

According to him, the narrow gauge traversed the eastern district, from Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, Borno State and other parts of Nigeria.

“This district covers Enugu, Abia, Ebonyi, Rivers and part of Egbede in Benue State, which is our boundary with the north central district of about 110 kilometers.

“I am very happy to state that the segment of the contract was handed over to NRC on Nov. 28, 2024.

“We have our coaches that are running from Port Harcourt to Aba and back to Port Harcourt, five days in a week,” he explained.

He acknowledged that there was a suspension of work from Aba in Umuahia down to Enugu.

Adamu, however, said that the Federal Government is doing everything possible to ensure that the construction and rehabilitation on the remaining part of the contract commence soon.

The district manager explained that, through the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, work on the narrow gauge had resumed.

“This is a project that the Southeast and other parts of the country will benefit from.

“The Federal Government is doing a lot to see that the rail lines are working again.

“Sometime in April, the Managing Director of NRC, Mr Kayode Opeifa, visited Enugu and we had some meaningful discussions with the governors of Abia and Enugu States.

“I believe that the visit will really bring out a lot of things that are going to happen on this corridor,’’ he said.

According to Adamu, there is a policy introduced by Tinubu’s administration that allows state governments to invest in railways.

He disclosed that the Anambra, Abia and Enugu state governments were ready to key into the policy.

“With this, I believe that very soon, we will start seeing the dividends from these policies,” Adamu said.

He, however, described the activities of vandals as the biggest challenge to NRC, especially as it concerned their track materials and other facilities.

According to him, in securing the railway infrastructure, NRC is working with the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, military and vigilante groups.

Adamu said that through the collaboration of the NRC, police, military, and NSCDC, they made arrests of suspected vandals, and some of them were already facing trial.

“There are some suspected vandals who were arrested in Imo, Rivers and Enugu states.

“We are doing these because these facilities are meant for Nigerians, and we are expected to own them as Nigerians. This will go a long way in keeping them intact.

“Our officials are still going around to see that these facilities are protected,’’ the district manager said.

NAN reports that railway operations stopped in Enugu for over two decades.

NAN

Emir of Ilorin mourns Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin 7th July 20

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara Traditional Rulers Council, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari has mourned the death of Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who died on Monday.

This is contained in a condolence message issued by the Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria in Ilorin on Monday.

Oba Olakulehin died in Ibadan at the age of 90.

The Emir described the death of Oba Olakulehin as the will of Almighty Allah.

He noted that the one year reign of the deceased was peaceful and valuable to the sustenance of the cultural heritage and tradition of the people of Ibadan and Oyo State in general.

Sulu-Gambari commiserated with the immediate and extended family members of Oba Olakulehin, Olubadan-In-Council, Oyo State Traditional Rulers Council, government and good people of Oyo State over the unfortunate incidence.

He prayed to God for the repose the soul of the deceased and to give the people of the ancient city of Ibadan and humanity at large, the patience to bear the great loss.

Olubadan, Oba Olakulehin dies at 90

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, has passed away.

Olakulehin died at the age of 90.

The PUNCH Online learnt that the monarch died in the early hours of Monday.

Olakulehin died during the ongoing 90th birthday and first anniversary coronation celebrations.

He succeeded the late Oba Lekan Balogun.

A source close to the Olubadan-In-Council confided in our correspondent in Ibadan, the state capital, that “we received the message that the paramount ruler passed away this morning. He has joined his forefathers. Though it has to be officially announced by the state government.”

Another palace source, who confirmed the news, said the Otun Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who is the next in line to become Olubadan, is currently out of the country and he is expected back.

“We are expecting a former Governor of the State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who is currently out of the country, to come back home.

“He must have been briefed,” he said.

Ex-Army chief proposes mandatory military training for Nigerians

A former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (retd.), has called for the introduction of mandatory military training for all Nigerians, beginning with the National Youth Service Corps.

This, he said, is a way of promoting national unity, discipline, and resilience in the face of growing security and social challenges.

Ihejirika made the call on Friday night at the 50th anniversary of the Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Course 18 Alumni Association in Abuja.

He reflected on his early days in military service and the camaraderie built over the years with fellow officers.

The former Army chief said the discipline and patriotism instilled in them during training were instrumental in shaping their careers and national contributions.

“Given the current situation of things in our country, I believe it’s time we start thinking about mandatory military training for our citizens.

“We can start with the National Youth Service. This will help us build a generation of Nigerians who understand sacrifice, responsibility, and patriotism,” he said.

Ihejirika praised the government’s decision to restore the old national anthem, saying it reinforces the spirit of unity.

He emphasised that the line “Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand” perfectly captures the essence of national service and shared identity.

He also expressed concern over how the national anthem is now reduced to mere fanfare at official events.

“It should be a daily reminder of our oath of allegiance. It must return to schools, communities, and national ceremonies,” he said.

Drawing from his own life experience, Ihejirika recounted his humble beginnings from his village in Abia and how military discipline transformed him.

He credited the support of colleagues and mentors for his successful career, which culminated in his appointment as Nigeria’s 22nd Chief of Army Staff.

Beyond his advocacy, the retired general also commended the current leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, describing them as highly experienced and well-trained.

“Many of the officers leading today served in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and other conflict zones.

They have earned their stars through real battle experience and are doing remarkably well,” he added.

He urged Nigerian leaders at all levels to prioritise peace and stability, reminding them that no office or position is sustainable in the absence of national unity.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the dinner had in attendance the Minister of State for Defence, Chief of Defence Staff and representatives of service chiefs amongst other dignitaries.

NAN

FG to spend N17bn on Lagos bridge damaged by fire 5th July 2025

The Federal Government has negotiated the cost of the Iddo Bridge rehabilitation from an initial N27bn to N17bn.

The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, made this known to journalists during an inspection of the bridge on Friday in Lagos.

He said, “Julius Berger quoted, I think, N27 billion or thereabout, but after much negotiation and discussion, we now arrived at N17 billion.”

Umahi commended Julius Berger Nig. Plc. for demonstrating a sense of cooperation under its new leadership.

He described the company as a “born-again Berger”, attributing the breakthrough in negotiation to the understanding and openness of its new managing director.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to prudent spending, insisting that all contractors must align with the ministry’s standards and directives.

Umahi noted that the project had been reviewed from mere rehabilitation of the burnt section to a major work.

He expressed concern over the poor condition of the bridge, blaming it on years of neglect and human abuse, including illegal occupation and collisions by heavy-duty trucks.

He said that three spans of the bridge were severely damaged by fire, which he attributed to activities of illegal occupants who had built makeshift homes under the bridge.

“They brought in chemicals, built block walls and set up homes. Then, they set up fire that burnt the bridge and damaged three spans. Now we are going to fix the bridge completely,” Umahi said.

The minister said the Iddo Bridge, now with a headroom of about 4.5 metres, had suffered significant structural damage due to continuous hits from trucks and illegal structures beneath it.

He announced that the ministry would be creating a headroom of at least 5.6 metres.

He said that the Federal Ministry of Works was committed to restoring the bridge for the safety of all Nigerians and ensuring such incidents would not occur again.

On the issue of displaced persons, the minister said that no one would be allowed to return under the bridge.

“Nobody will stay under Iddo Bridge again as long as I remain the Minister of Works.

“The lives of the people are more important,” he said.

He warned that the government would no longer tolerate any abuse of national infrastructure.

NAN

How Chief M.K.O. Abiola’s Death Led Me to Christ

By Apostle Raphael Adebayo

It’s often in our greatest moments of pain that God reveals our deepest purpose. For me, it all began on July 7, 1998, in a small apartment in Arlington, Texas, when I received the heartbreaking news of the death of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola—a man I admired and desired to be like.

That moment shook my faith to its foundation and set me on a spiritual journey I never expected.

—

From Devotion to Disillusionment

Before that day, I was a committed Muslim. I had grown up in Yoruba traditional and Islamic practices and was active in the Muslim Students Society at Obafemi Awolowo University, serving on its Jihad Committee from 1983 to 1988.

M.K.O. Abiola was a beacon of hope to many Nigerians. His death in detention felt like the death of a dream.

> “I was devastated and lost hope in the power of love and solidarity in Islam. I said to myself, ‘I will never pray as a Muslim again unless I can receive clarity on this tragic end of a man I desired to be like.’”

I couldn’t understand how fellow Muslims—friends and allies of M.K.O.—could allow him to die alone. That disillusionment opened my heart to seek a deeper, truer encounter with God.

—

A Radical Encounter with Christ

On December 2, 1998, while en route to Lagos after three years in America, I surrendered my life to Jesus.

> “I gave myself only six months to try Jesus—just six months to see if He really had the power and love attributed to Him. Now, 27 years later, I am still walking in that power and love.”

Encouraged by my then-fiancée (now wife), I joined The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in February 1999. I immersed myself in the Word, served passionately, and was appointed head of the Men’s Fellowship and later the Prayer Department.

I took inspiration from 1 John 3:8, which says:

> “For this purpose, the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.”

I knew in my spirit—I was called to do the same.

—

A Burden for the Homeless in America

Back in America, I was shocked by what I saw: extreme poverty and homelessness in one of the world’s richest nations.

> “I saw people living in America as poor as those living on the train lines of Agege and Oshodi in Lagos. It was beyond what my mind could handle.”

This spiritual burden drove me to act.

—

Ministry Begins on the Streets

On December 25, 2003—my 41st birthday—my family and a few friends gathered on a street corner in Dallas, Texas to hold a service for the homeless. That day, 18 people gave their lives to Jesus.

> “That moment confirmed it: this wasn’t just an outreach—it was a calling.”

We began weekly Tuesday outreach at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center. Four weeks later, a Nigerian chicken franchise owner offered to supply fried chicken for free. He has done so faithfully for over 21 years.

—

A Funeral Home Becomes a Church

As our ministry grew, we felt led to start a Sunday service. But where could we meet?

One Tuesday, a visiting minister, Mrs. Cynthia Chase, made a suggestion:

> “Why not try a funeral home? They’re usually available on Sundays.”

That divine idea led us to Eternal Rest Funeral Home, where we held our first Sunday service on May 30, 2004.

By August 1, 2004, we moved into a rented space at 1705 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, which became our permanent church building in 2014.

> “We have watched God transform what was once labeled a ghetto into an extension of Downtown Dallas.”

—

From Exodus to Empowerment

This journey has been more than just a ministry. It’s a calling to serve the poor, homeless, and rejected—those society has forgotten.

My story, and the lessons God has taught me through this mission, are captured in my new book:

Moses, David, Jesus: Pastors to the Poor, Homeless, and the Needy

> “Just as God sent Moses to deliver Israel, and David to lead the distressed, and Jesus to set captives free—He sent me to serve the homeless and needy in America.”

It is my hope that this story inspires people in positions of privilege to start asking:

> “What can I do to make a difference in my community?”

Because true ministry begins not on the platform—but in the streets.

Segun Oluwayomi: Pioneering AlujoHymn Fusion, the New Sound of African Worship

Segun Oluwayomi: Pioneering AlujoHymn Fusion, the New Sound of African Worshi

Award-winning gospel saxophonist Segun Oluwayomi is the creative force behind AlujoHymn Fusion—a powerful new genre where the pulse of African rhythms meets the sacred soul of Christian hymns. A native of Ilorin, Nigeria, and an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Oluwayomi has turned his saxophone into a prophetic tool for worship and healing.

His musical journey spans over two decades, three landmark albums (Arugbo Ojo Series I–III), and multiple international tours across Europe, the UK, the U.S., and East Africa. His recent singles—Bethlehem, Prophetic Declaration on Nigeria, and Praise of the Prophets II—continue to reinforce his position as a spiritual voice in African jazz and Christian music.

Oluwayomi’s ministry is deeply rooted in Colossians 3:16, calling people into deeper worship. Whether through live concerts, social media, or broadcast ministry, testimonies of divine encounters and miraculous healings have followed his music.

Described as “the face of traditional Christian music,” Segun Oluwayomi is a cultural bridge between heritage and holiness, carrying the sound of heaven with Africa’s heartbeat.

House of Adron Lights Up Ojude Oba Festival in Grand Style, Pays Homage to the Awujale of Ijebuland

Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Nigeria’s leading real estate powerhouse, once again demonstrated its deep-rooted commitment to cultural heritage and community celebration by attending the 2025 edition of the iconic Ojude Oba Festival in spectacular fashion, proudly under the banner of the “House of Adron.”

The House of Adron made a resplendent entrance into the Ojude Oba parade ground, capturing hearts and attention with its vibrant cultural regalia, energetic performances, and a regal display of unity, tradition, and luxury. In keeping with the brand’s identity of class and excellence, Adron Homes didn’t just attend the festival, it redefined presence.

Adding a spark of celebrity glamour, Nollywood icons and cultural ambassadors Lateef Adedimeji and Femi Branch joined the House of Adron in paying homage to the revered Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona. Their presence electrified the crowd and brought star power to an already thrilling procession.

The 2025 Ojude Oba Festival was a cultural spectacle that drew top dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, MFR, Her Excellency the First Lady, the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyelade, the Deputy Governor of Ondo state, His Excellency, Olayide Adelami, representing the Governor, the Minister of Arts, Culture and Tourism, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, revered Yoruba monarchs, and a host of other national and international figures. Amidst colourful attires, horse-riding families, rhythmic drumming, and ancestral pride, the House of Adron stood out as a symbol of innovation meeting tradition.

But beyond its dazzling presence at the festival, Adron Homes is also a proud stakeholder in the land of Ijebu Ode, with some of its prominent, world-class estates strategically located within the city and across its neighbouring environs. These include Chicago Parks and Gardens, Sugarland Estate, Winter Park and Gardens, and Imperial Park and Gardens, all thoughtfully designed to combine modern infrastructure with the cultural essence of their host communities. These estates not only provide affordable luxury but also serve as models of organized living and sustainable development in the region.

Speaking at the festival, the Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, KOF, who dazzled with class and elegance, emphasized the brand’s commitment to preserving Nigerian culture while creating modern, affordable luxury for all.

“Ojude Oba is a movement of identity, pride, and unity. Adron Homes is proud to be part of this movement, championing culture while building dreams,” he stated.

Adron Homes’ participation further cements its reputation not only as a developer of vibrant communities but also as a proud patron of Nigeria’s rich traditions. Through its dynamic presence at Ojude Oba, and its real estate footprint in Ijebu Ode, Adron once again proved that it is a brand deeply woven into the cultural and social fabric of Nigeria.

As the drums fade and the colours settle, the legacy of the House of Adron at Ojude Oba 2025 will remain etched in the minds of attendees, a magnificent reminder that when culture calls, Adron answers in grand style.

Taraba community demands strict enforcement of anti-open grazing law

Residents of the Munga Dosso community in Karim- Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba have appealed to the state government to ensure strict enforcement of its anti-open grazing law to address herders and farmers’ clashes in the state.

The Youth Leader of the community, Robert Bukar, disclosed this on Monday, while briefing newsmen in Jalingo.

The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that the Munga Dosso community has come under attack recently when scores were killed, and property worth millions of naira was destroyed by suspected herders.

Bukar noted that the bill was signed into law by the former Gov. Darius Ishaku in 2018.

He said that the enforcement of the law would address the lingering farmers/herders conflict.

He also decried the absence of the government’s representatives in the crisis-affected community.

The youth leader also said that the community was left to its faith at the time, when 12 residents of the community, who were given a mass burial, were killed by suspected herders

“Notably, no government representatives from federal, state, or local levels visited the community after this incident.

“We have a senator, a house of representatives member, a state assembly member, yet none deemed it necessary to visit us and to listen to our lamentations.

“As a peace-loving community, we always report all incidents and seek assistance from security agencies.

However, we were disappointed by the lack of government representation at the mass burial, where officials failed to commiserate with our people.

” It is true that the state government sent relief materials to the victims but relief materials are not our problem. We expected their solidarity at the time.

“The aftermath of such violence has tragically resulted in not only fatalities but also a significant number of injuries and displacements.

“It has led to a humanitarian crisis that requires urgent attention. Families are left to mourn their loved ones, while survivors grapple with trauma and insecurity.

“Access to essential resources has become increasingly challenging, complicating efforts for community stability.

“Moreover, in all these, our people are often arrested and from the police station to prison but none of the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“It is only in the recent crisis that the herders were arrested with assault rifles by the police in Karim-Lamido but were released the next day,” Bukar said.

The youth leader also appealed to government to increase security deployment to allow farmers to safely return to their farms.

He also requested Taraba government to ensure that the recently constituted administrative committee of enquiry carry out a thorough investigation to apprehend and punish the perpetrators of the recent attacks.