Why I want to Succeed Adeleke As Governor – Prince Adesina Adeyemi-Doro, APGA Governorship Aspirant

 

WHY I WANT TO SUCCEED ADELEKE AS GOVERNOR – PRINCE ADESINA ADEYEMI-DORO, APGA GOVERNORSHIP ASPIRANT

Prince Adesina Olusanya Adeyemi-Doro descends from the distinguished Onigbo Ruling House of Otan-Ayegbaju—one of the three foundational royal lineages (Elemu, Onigbo, and Lubayan) that form the executive arm of the traditional monarchy in Otan Kingdom. He is the proud grandson of Pa (Prince) Peter Ogundoro Adeyemi, one of the earliest educated sons of Otan-Ayegbaju and an alumnus of St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, who later served in the Western Nigeria Civil Service. His father, the late Professor (Prince) Henry Olusanya Adeyemi-Doro, was a world-acclaimed Professor of Surgery and Hand Reconstruction, a Fellow of multiple international medical colleges, and a philanthropist who donated the land on which St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Oke-Omi, Otan-Ayegbaju, was built in honour of the Adeyemi-Doro royal lineage.

In this interview, Prince Adeyemi-Doro shares his vision, mission, and motivation for seeking the governorship of Osun State on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

OSUN TIMES: WHAT INSPIRED YOUR DECISION TO JOIN THE OSUN STATE GOVERNORSHIP RACE UNDER APGA?

DORO: My decision stems from a deep conviction that Osun deserves a new chapter of purpose-driven leadership—one that places people above politics. I have watched our beloved state struggle despite its rich human and cultural capital. The time has come to restore faith in governance through humility, competence, and integrity. APGA provides the moral and ideological platform for that rebirth.

OSUN TIMES: YOU RECENTLY VISITED THE SOUTHWEST ZONAL OFFICE OF APGA TO FORMALLY DECLARE YOUR AMBITION. HOW WERE YOU RECEIVED?

DORO: The reception was warm, encouraging, and humbling. The Zonal leadership welcomed me wholeheartedly, and our discussions reflected a shared belief in grassroots politics and service to humanity. Their support strengthened my resolve to pursue this race with diligence and unwavering commitment.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT EXPERIENCES HAVE BEST PREPARED YOU FOR THE ROLE OF GOVERNOR?

DORO: My background cuts across public service, private sector management, and community leadership. I have served in environments that demand integrity, accountability, and excellence. Leading faith-based and youth development initiatives has shown me firsthand that visionary leadership transforms lives. Governance, to me, is about listening, planning, and selfless service.

OSUN TIMES: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE APGA AS YOUR PLATFORM?

DORO: APGA’s philosophy—“Be Your Brother and Sister’s Keeper”—resonates deeply with my values. It emphasizes compassion, community, and inclusive growth. APGA stands for equity, justice, and grassroots development. It is the platform for those who wish to rebuild Nigeria from the heart, not just from the top.

OSUN TIMES: DESCRIBE YOUR VISION FOR OSUN IN ONE SENTENCE.

DORO: A stronger Osun—empowered by education, sustained by health, and thriving through agriculture.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT ARE THE PILLARS OF YOUR GOVERNANCE AGENDA?

DORO: My agenda rests on five pillars: Education & Human Capital Development, Health & Social Welfare, Agriculture & Rural Prosperity, Infrastructure & Digital Transformation, Transparent Governance & Institutional Reform.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU IMPROVE REVENUE GENERATION AND ECONOMIC SUSTAINABILITY?

DORO: We will prioritize productive revenue, not punitive taxation. Strategies include: Creating an Osun Enterprise Fund for MSMEs and youth innovators, Expanding agricultural value chains through cooperatives and agro-processing clusters, Partnering with the private sector for eco-tourism and cultural exports, Leveraging technology to track and optimize revenue efficiently.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT EDUCATION REFORMS WILL YOU INTRODUCE?

DORO: Education must shift from rote learning to practical, real-life application. I will: Restore teacher dignity and welfare, Introduce Technical and Vocational Education (TVE) in all senatorial districts, Digitize classrooms for blended learning, Establish the Osun Education Trust Fund, Reward excellence through the Doro Essay Challenge and mentorship initiatives.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT?

DORO: We will launch the Osun Youth Enterprise & Innovation Program (OYEIP) to train, fund, and mentor young entrepreneurs in agriculture, technology, and the creative economy. We will also establish Doro Skill Hubs, support creative arts incubation, and build digital job pipelines through tech partnerships.

OSUN TIMES: WHICH INFRASTRUCTURE AREAS WILL RECEIVE IMMEDIATE ATTENTION?

DORO: We will prioritize functional, people-centered infrastructure: Rehabilitation of rural roads connecting farmers to markets, Expansion of renewable energy in underserved communities, Restoration of water supply, Maintenance of existing public facilities

OSUN TIMES: HOW DO YOU PLAN TO STRENGTHEN APGA IN OSUN?

DORO: Through grassroots empowerment and visibility. We will invest in ward coordinator training, digital communication, and community service under the banner “APGA Listens.” When citizens see genuine service, they will trust the party.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO GRASSROOTS MEMBERS AND OSUN CITIZENS?

DORO: I am one of you—a son of Osun who believes our people deserve better. I come not with promises of power but with the burden of purpose. Let us build a state where opportunity is created for all. Join me on the journey to restore dignity and hope.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL APGA’S PHILOSOPHY SHAPE YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE?

DORO: Completely. Leadership, to me, is stewardship. My campaign and my administration will embody empathy, fairness, and communal care. Every policy will uplift our people, leaving no one behind.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU WORK WITH THE SOUTHWEST ZONAL LEADERSHIP TO ACHIEVE ELECTORAL VICTORY?

DORO: Through continuous consultation, mutual respect, and collective strategy. Our campaign will align with the zonal roadmap, emphasizing unity and message consistency. Victory will come from teamwork.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU ENGAGE TRADITIONAL RULERS, CIVIL SOCIETY, AND COMMUNITY LEADERS?

DORO: They are custodians of wisdom and legitimacy. We will establish a Council for Inclusive Governance (CIG) as a permanent platform for dialogue with royal fathers, religious leaders, youths, and professionals. Policymaking will be collaborative and people-driven.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT IS YOUR POSITION ON WOMEN AND YOUTH INCLUSION?

DORO: Women and youth are co-builders of society, not support groups. My administration will ensure at least 35% inclusion in appointments. We will strengthen women’s cooperatives, promote girl-child education, and invest in leadership training.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU FIGHT CORRUPTION AND ENSURE ACCOUNTABILITY?

DORO: Through transparency by design: An Open Governance Portal for budget and procurement tracking, Citizens’ Feedback Mechanisms, Independent audits of ministries and parastatals, Integrity will be systemic, not optional.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT LEGACY DO YOU WANT TO LEAVE BEHIND?

DORO: I want to be remembered as the leader who restored trust in governance—who proved that politics can be noble and leadership can be honest. A governor who served Osun before himself.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR THE PEOPLE OF OSUN AS YOU BEGIN THIS JOURNEY?

DORO: The future of Osun is in our hands. Let us rise above division and choose progress with integrity. Together, we can build an Osun that works for every family, every farmer, and every child.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER ASPIRANTS?

DORO: I offer a rare blend of fresh perspective, discipline, spiritual grounding, and people-focused leadership. My approach is consultative, data-driven, and rooted in the APGA spirit of brotherhood.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY FOR BETTER GOVERNANCE?

DORO: We will make Osun a Smart Governance State by introducing e-governance systems, launching a Digital Osun Academy, and encouraging AgriTech and HealthTech innovations. Technology will build a bridge between the government and the governed.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT ROLE WILL CULTURE, TOURISM, AND THE CREATIVE INDUSTRY PLAY IN YOUR ECONOMIC PLAN?

DORO: Culture is Osun’s soul. We will develop tourism circuits around Osogbo, Ile-Ife, and Erin-Ijesha, modernize festivals, and support creative industries as job creators. Our goal is to make Osun the Cultural Capital of Southwest Nigeria.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU ADDRESS WORKERS’ WELFARE AND SALARY ARREARS?

DORO: Workers are the backbone of government. My administration will adopt zero tolerance for salary arrears through payroll transparency, prompt payment policies, and welfare initiatives. Fair compensation is justice.

OSUN TIMES: WHAT SECURITY STRATEGIES WILL YOU IMPLEMENT?

DORO: We will enhance community policing, improve intelligence gathering, deploy technology (CCTV, hotlines, rural alert systems), and work closely with traditional rulers to ensure proactive security.

OSUN TIMES: HOW WILL YOU BALANCE CONTINUITY WITH INNOVATION?

DORO: Leadership is not about erasing the past but improving it. We will sustain good policies while introducing new ideas where necessary. Governance must be evolutionary, not adversarial.

 

Ekiti Governorship Poll: Olabode Rufus Alabi Emerges APGA Governorship Candidate

 

EKITI GOVERNORSHIP POLL: OLABODE RUFUS ALABI EMERGES APGA GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE

 

By Wole Adedoyin

Mr. Olabode Rufus Alabi, a prominent businessman from Ado Ekiti, has emerged as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the forthcoming July 20, 2026, governorship election. His emergence was officially declared following a peaceful and transparent primary election conducted by the party on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at the APGA State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti. The primary was monitored by representatives of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from the Commission’s National Headquarters.

The APGA primary was conducted in strict compliance with electoral guidelines and internal party procedures. Mr. Alabi’s candidature was unanimously ratified in the presence of INEC officials, party delegates, and observers after emerging as the sole candidate in the contest. The returning officer, while announcing the results, expressed appreciation to all delegates and stakeholders for their discipline, orderliness, and commitment to democratic ideals, which ensured a credible and violence-free exercise.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Olabode Rufus Alabi commended the national and zonal leadership of APGA for their dedication to internal democracy and party unity. He particularly acknowledged the guidance and support of the National Chairman, Chief Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, and the South-West Zonal Chairman, Alhaji Suraj Owolabi, for their instrumental roles in the successful conduct of the primaries. He assured party members and supporters that the forthcoming election would mark a defining moment for APGA in Ekiti State.

Mr. Alabi declared that the All Progressives Grand Alliance is fully prepared to challenge the political dominance of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. He described APGA as the only genuine progressive platform committed to the welfare of the masses, good governance, and grassroots development. “Our party will spring a major surprise against the political permutations of both the APC and PDP come July 20,” he vowed confidently.

According to Mr. Alabi, APGA in Ekiti, with the overwhelming support of the state’s electorate, can replicate the success recorded in Anambra State, where the people overwhelmingly re-elected Prof. Charles Soludo as governor based on his impressive performance and the party’s pro-people agenda. He maintained that the Ekiti electorate are politically enlightened and ready for a new beginning anchored on inclusiveness and development.

The APGA flagbearer further emphasized that the party’s enduring success in Anambra State since 2006 stands as a testament to its philosophy of people-oriented leadership and developmental governance. He highlighted that under APGA-led administrations, Anambra has witnessed remarkable infrastructural expansion, human capital development, and grassroots empowerment—achievements he pledged to replicate in Ekiti State if elected governor.

Mr. Alabi extended heartfelt gratitude to the national leadership for their unwavering support and to the delegates who entrusted him with the party’s governorship ticket. He promised to run an inclusive and issue-based campaign that would present a credible alternative to the people of Ekiti State. “If given the opportunity to serve, we will not fail the people. We will govern with sincerity, transparency, and accountability,” he assured. Concluding his remarks, Mr. Alabi reaffirmed his commitment to harnessing the God-given resources of the state for the benefit of all citizens, pledging that his administration would ensure every Ekiti citizen enjoys the dividends of democracy and the blessings of God.

 

Deaconess Akintola Christianah To Headline ANA Osun September Reading

 

DEACONESS AKINTOLA CHRISTIANAH TO HEADLINE ANA OSUN SEPTEMBER READING

 

The Osun State Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA Osun) has announced that its September Monthly Reading will be headlined by Deaconess Akintola Christianah, a prolific author whose works have gained recognition across Nigeria. The literary gathering is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 20, 2025, at Ila Bar, Madam Aderinu Shopping Complex, Gbongan Road, MDS, Osogbo, Osun State, beginning at 12 PM.

This was contained in a press statement jointly signed by the Chairman and Secretary of ANA Osun, Odetayo Wasiu Mobewaji and Olaonipekun Olatunde, who described the event as another milestone in the Association’s commitment to celebrating literary excellence and deepening the reading culture in Osun State.

Deaconess Akintola Christianah is a retired civil servant, accomplished author, mother, grandmother, and minister of the gospel. She is married to Pastor M. A. Akintola and has dedicated her life to the service of humanity, both in her professional and spiritual pursuits.

She served as the Coordinator of the Chartered Institute of Certified Secretaries and Reporters for ten years until her retirement from the civil service in 2012. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, she received the Institute’s highest professional award (MCICSR) in 2007 at Enugu and was honored with the Osun State Merit Award in 2009.

As a writer, Akintola Christianah has authored six published prose works that continue to resonate with readers across Nigeria. Her titles include Wasted Endurance, The Exit of a King, Are You Longing for Egypt?, Is Salvation Free?, Spiritual Pride, and The Great Commission. Many of her works are already being used in schools across more than ten states of the federation.

The upcoming reading will offer participants an opportunity to engage directly with the author as she shares from her creative journey, her published works, and her reflections on faith, literature, and society. It will also serve as an avenue for writers, readers, and literature enthusiasts to network and exchange ideas.

According to ANA Osun, the September Reading will not only spotlight Akintola Christianah’s contributions but also strengthen the association’s vision of encouraging writers in Osun State to embrace the discipline of regular literary engagement. The organizers emphasized that the session promises to be both intellectually stimulating and spiritually uplifting.

The event is open to writers, readers, and the general public who are passionate about promoting creativity and sustaining a vibrant literary culture. ANA Osun encourages participation from literary enthusiasts, students, and lovers of books, as the platform remains a rallying point for nurturing creativity in the state.

For participation and further inquiries, interested individuals are advised to contact 08160881375 for directions and additional details about the event.

Soludo Hailed as APGA Chairmen Pass Confidence Vote on Ezeokenwa

 

 

SOLUDO HAILED AS APGA CHAIRMEN PASS CONFIDENCE VOTE ON EZEOKENWA

 

The 36 State Chairmen of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chairman, have jointly congratulated the Executive Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on the resounding victory recorded by the party in the recent by-elections.

 

The State Chairmen also unanimously passed a vote of confidence on the National Chairman of the party, Barrister Sylvester Ezeokenwa, and the entire National Executive Committee (NEC), commending them for their unwavering commitment to repositioning APGA as a formidable political force across Nigeria.

 

It will be recalled that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared APGA victorious in both the Anambra South Senatorial and Onitsha North 1 State Constituency by-elections conducted on Saturday. Results released on Sunday confirmed that the party swept all wards in the affected constituencies.

 

In the Anambra South Senatorial contest, APGA’s candidate, Chief Emmanuel Nwachukwu, emerged victorious with 90,408 votes, far ahead of his closest challengers from the All Progressives Congress (APC), who scored 19,812 votes, and the Young Progressives Party (YPP), which polled 6,538 votes.

 

Similarly, in the Onitsha North 1 State House of Assembly by-election, APGA’s flagbearer, Mimi Ifeoma Azikiwe, recorded a landslide victory with 7,774 votes, defeating her nearest rival from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who garnered 1,909 votes.

 

Prof. Frank Ojiako, INEC Returning Officer for the senatorial poll, declared Chief Nwachukwu duly elected, while Prof. Ibiam Ekpe, Returning Officer for the state assembly election, announced Azikiwe as the winner. The victories were hailed as a landmark moment, especially as it marks the first time APGA will represent Anambra South in the Nigerian Senate.

 

During their meeting, which was attended by the National Secretary, two Deputy National Chairmen, and six Zonal Chairmen, the State Chairmen applauded the dynamic leadership of Barr. Ezeokenwa. They acknowledged the visible growth of the party and the renewed confidence of Nigerians in APGA’s vision and values.

 

The State Chairmen particularly lauded initiatives introduced under the current National Executive, including membership digitalization, grassroots mobilization, stakeholders’ retreats, and preparations for upcoming governorship elections in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun States, as well as the 2027 General Elections.

 

In their resolution, the Chairmen affirmed that APGA is on the right trajectory, attributing the recent electoral victories to the unity of purpose, strategic reforms, and the inspirational leadership provided by the National Chairman and his team. They pledged continued loyalty and support to the national leadership in advancing the party’s growth and electoral fortunes.

 

The meeting concluded with renewed commitment to strengthening party structures nationwide, building on the momentum of the recent victories, and consolidating APGA’s position as a credible alternative in Nigeria’s political landscape.

 

Signed,

Wole Adedoyin
Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the National Chairman of APGA
Member, APGA Publicity Committee

 

 

APGA Announces Continuation Of Membership Drive, Digitalization Of Delegate Elections

APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN ANNOUNCES CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP DRIVE, DIGITALIZATION OF DELEGATE ELECTIONS

 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, has reaffirmed the Party’s commitment to its ongoing membership drive and the full digitalization of its delegate election process.

 

This announcement was made during a high-level meeting held on August 28, 2025, at the Party’s National Headquarters, Abuja.

 

Present at the meeting were the National Secretary, two Deputy National Chairmen, six Zonal Chairmen, the thirty-six State Chairmen, and the FCT Chairman.

 

In his address, the National Chairman emphasized the urgent need for the Party to consolidate its membership structure as the 2027 general elections draw closer. He stressed that APGA must carefully define the future it envisions and remain united, cautioning leaders to be mindful of their political utterances, as such statements directly impact the image and unity of the Party.

 

Ezeokenwa recalled that on June 1, 2024, APGA officially launched the digitization of its membership database. However due to  financial constraints, and other logistical factors, the Party resolved to complement the electronic process with physical membership forms.

 

These forms, he explained, serve as an initial entry point before members are officially documented in the Party’s electronic system.

 

Each form has been designed with two detachable sections. The upper section is retained by the Party, while the lower section is issued to the applicant as a temporary membership slip. This dual-structure ensures that every member is properly recorded in the national digital database, which will ultimately replace the traditional paper register.

 

Ahead of the Party primaries, the National Chairman announced that the electronic register will be printed and distributed at state and local government levels. This register will serve as the only official document for the conduct of primaries. He revealed that the ongoing membership validation exercise will continue into the new year, after which permanent membership cards will be issued from January. Only members with the APGA permanent card, he reiterated, will be eligible to contest elections or serve as delegates.

 

To support the process, each State Chairman has already received 1,000 membership forms. The ICT Department at the National Headquarters will oversee the collation and input of completed forms into the Party’s electronic database. The National Chairman clarified that the APGA Membership Registration website remains active and relevant, with updates currently being made. Members who registered online, he noted, are not required to fill the physical form again.

 

He stressed that the physical membership form is a simplified alternative to the electronic process, designed to accommodate areas with limited internet access. State Chairmen were further instructed to return all completed forms promptly to the National Secretariat to facilitate timely digital documentation.

 

Turning to the issue of delegate elections, the National Chairman declared that APGA will no longer use physical delegate forms. Beginning next year, aspirants must log into a dedicated Party portal to complete and submit delegate forms electronically, including payment of prescribed fees. This, he said, will eliminate the fraudulent practices of the past, where fake delegate forms were produced and sold in large numbers.

 

For congresses, an official list of duly qualified delegates will be generated and printed directly from the Party’s database. This list will be the only recognized document for delegate elections. With this innovation, APGA reaffirms its position as the first political party in Nigeria to fully digitalize its membership and delegate processes, setting a new standard of transparency, accountability, and credibility in the country’s political landscape.

 

Concluding his remarks, Barr. Ezeokenwa urged Party leaders at all levels to fully embrace the membership drive and digital reforms. He described the initiative as a turning point in APGA’s history, one that will strengthen internal democracy and position the Party as a model of innovation and transparency in Nigeria’s democratic system.

 

Signed,

Wole Adedoyin
Senior Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the National Chairman of APGA
Member, APGA Publicity Committee

 

 

APGA Sustains Membership Drive, Unveils Digital Delegate Election Plan

 APGA SUSTAINS MEMBERSHIP DRIVE, UNVEILS DIGIT DELEGATE ELECTION PLAN

By APGA Publicity Committee 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, has reaffirmed the Party’s commitment to its ongoing membership drive and the full digitalization of its delegate election process. 

This announcement was made during a high-level meeting held on August 28, 2025, at the Party’s National Headquarters, Abuja. 

Present at the meeting were the National Secretary, two Deputy National Chairmen, six Zonal Chairmen, the thirty-six State Chairmen, and the FCT Chairman.

In his address, the National Chairman emphasized the urgent need for the Party to consolidate its membership structure as the 2027 general elections draw closer. He stressed that APGA must carefully define the future it envisions and remain united, cautioning leaders to be mindful of their political utterances, as such statements directly impact the image and unity of the Party.

Ezeokenwa recalled that on June 1, 2024, APGA officially launched the digitization of its membership database. However due to  financial constraints, and other logistical factors, the Party resolved to complement the electronic process with physical membership forms. 

These forms, he explained, serve as an initial entry point before members are officially documented in the Party’s electronic system.

Each form has been designed with two detachable sections. The upper section is retained by the Party, while the lower section is issued to the applicant as a temporary membership slip. This dual-structure ensures that every member is properly recorded in the national digital database, which will ultimately replace the traditional paper register.

Ahead of the Party primaries, the National Chairman announced that the electronic register will be printed and distributed at state and local government levels. This register will serve as the only official document for the conduct of primaries. He revealed that the ongoing membership validation exercise will continue into the new year, after which permanent membership cards will be issued from January. Only members with the APGA permanent card, he reiterated, will be eligible to contest elections or serve as delegates.

To support the process, each State Chairman has already received 1,000 membership forms. The ICT Department at the National Headquarters will oversee the collation and input of completed forms into the Party’s electronic database. The National Chairman clarified that the APGA Membership Registration website remains active and relevant, with updates currently being made. Members who registered online, he noted, are not required to fill the physical form again.

He stressed that the physical membership form is a simplified alternative to the electronic process, designed to accommodate areas with limited internet access. State Chairmen were further instructed to return all completed forms promptly to the National Secretariat to facilitate timely digital documentation.

Turning to the issue of delegate elections, the National Chairman declared that APGA will no longer use physical delegate forms. Beginning next year, aspirants must log into a dedicated Party portal to complete and submit delegate forms electronically, including payment of prescribed fees. This, he said, will eliminate the fraudulent practices of the past, where fake delegate forms were produced and sold in large numbers.

For congresses, an official list of duly qualified delegates will be generated and printed directly from the Party’s database. This list will be the only recognized document for delegate elections. With this innovation, APGA reaffirms its position as the first political party in Nigeria to fully digitalize its membership and delegate processes, setting a new standard of transparency, accountability, and credibility in the country’s political landscape.

Concluding his remarks, Barr. Ezeokenwa urged Party leaders at all levels to fully embrace the membership drive and digital reforms. He described the initiative as a turning point in APGA’s history, one that will strengthen internal democracy and position the Party as a model of innovation and transparency in Nigeria’s democratic system.

Best Brain Initiative Honours Hon. Yemi Taiwo as Drug-Free Society Ambassador

 BEST BRAIN INITIATIVE HONOURS HON. YEMI TAIWO AS DRUG-FREE SOCIETY AMBASSADOR 

The Oyo State Library Board on Tuesday played host to the Best Brain Initiative Foundation, a youth-focused non-governmental organization committed to societal development, education, and the campaign against drug abuse. The visit was marked by an atmosphere of collaboration and recognition as both institutions pledged to work together for the advancement of young people in the state.

Leading the Foundation’s delegation was its Executive Director, **Amb. Dr. Ojewola Olawale**, who commended the Library Board for its continuous efforts in promoting literacy and youth empowerment. He noted that the Foundation’s mission aligns with the Board’s vision of nurturing young minds and equipping them with the knowledge and discipline needed to succeed.

The high point of the event was the **decoration of Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, as the “African Ambassador for a Drug-Free Society.”** The honour, bestowed by the Best Brain Initiative Foundation, was in recognition of his tireless commitment to creating an environment where young people can thrive free from the destructive influence of drug abuse.

In his address, Amb. Dr. Olawale described Hon. Taiwo as “a leader whose dedication to a drug-free society is both inspiring and exemplary.” He emphasized that Hon. Taiwo’s record of advocacy and policy direction in support of healthy living among youth makes him deserving of continental recognition.

Responding to the honour, Hon. Yemi Taiwo expressed deep appreciation to the Foundation, assuring them of his unwavering resolve to continue championing causes that safeguard the future of the younger generation. “This decoration is not just a recognition of my efforts, but also a call to greater responsibility. Together, with organizations like Best Brain Initiative, we will build a safer and healthier society,” he said.

The event also featured discussions on **strategic partnerships** between the Oyo State Library Board and the Foundation. Both parties agreed to design and implement joint programmes that focus on education, awareness campaigns, and drug prevention projects targeted at schools and communities within Oyo State.

Participants at the event highlighted the crucial role libraries play in shaping society, not just as knowledge centres, but also as safe spaces where youths can find alternatives to vices such as drug abuse. The meeting thus reinforced the importance of expanding the reach of the Library Board in its community engagement efforts.

The decoration of Hon. Taiwo as an African Ambassador also symbolizes a **continental recognition** of the importance of local leadership in addressing global challenges such as drug abuse. It further amplifies Oyo State’s role in setting an example for other regions across Africa.

As the ceremony drew to a close, both institutions reaffirmed their **commitment to collaboration**, pledging to intensify efforts that will foster literacy, empower youths, and promote drug-free lifestyles. The visit ended with renewed optimism for a stronger partnership that will drive positive social change.

With this landmark event, the Oyo State Library Board and the Best Brain Initiative Foundation have set a new pace for community-based advocacy, demonstrating that the fight against drug abuse requires unity, education, and dedicated leadership.

Chairman Yemi Taiwo, Oyo State Library Board Honour Soun of Ogbomoso on Birthday

 CHAIRMAN YEMI TAIWO, OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD HONOUR SOUN OF OGBOMOSO ON BIRTHDAY

The Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, Hon. Yemi Taiwo, alongside the Board’s Management ably led by the esteemed State Librarian, Samuel Awotona, has extended warm felicitations to His Imperial Majesty, the Soun of Ogbomoso Land, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, on the occasion of his birthday.

This was contained in a goodwill statement issued and signed by Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, on Friday. The statement described the monarch as a symbol of wisdom, resilience, and visionary leadership whose reign continues to inspire his people.

The Board noted that the celebration of the Soun’s birthday is not just a recognition of his personal milestone, but also an opportunity to celebrate his unwavering dedication to the development, peace, and progress of Ogbomoso Land. According to the statement, Oba Olaoye’s reign has been a beacon of unity and a source of inspiration to many within and outside Oyo State.

The Oyo State Library Board highlighted His Majesty’s remarkable contributions to the growth of educational, cultural, and socio-economic development initiatives. Under his guidance, Ogbomoso Land has continued to thrive as a hub of learning, commerce, and cultural preservation, earning respect and admiration across Nigeria.

The statement emphasized that the monarch’s reign has promoted peace and stability while uplifting countless individuals and communities through visionary policies and unwavering support for inclusive growth. His efforts in fostering peaceful coexistence and educational advancement were commended as exemplary.

“As custodians of knowledge and promoters of literacy, we at the Oyo State Library Board recognize the immense value His Majesty places on education, enlightenment, and cultural heritage,” the statement read. “We are proud to identify with a monarch who embodies the ideals of progress, learning, and communal harmony.”

On this auspicious occasion, the Board joined the people of Ogbomoso Land and well-wishers across the globe in praying for the monarch’s continued strength, wisdom, and good health. It expressed confidence that his reign would remain characterized by peace, progress, and prosperity for his people.

The Library Board further reiterated its commitment to supporting the developmental initiatives of the monarch, especially in the areas of literacy promotion, cultural preservation, and community development. It pledged to work closely with His Majesty to nurture an enlightened and culturally vibrant society.