News
Oyo, UNICEF Advocate With South West Info Ministries

IBADAN: In a landmark effort to advance children-centred advocacy and effective communication for children’s right actualization, Oyo State Government in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), convened an advocacy dialogue and capacity-building meeting with the Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries and top officials from the Ministries of Information across the Southwest states of Nigeria.
The event, themed “Scaling Results for Children Through Evidence-Based Social and Behavioural Change,” was held at Orchid Hotel, Ikota-Lekki, Lagos State. It brought together key stakeholders to explore strategic approaches to drive positive social change, promote children’s rights, and advance gender equity through effective communication practices and evidence-based policy alignment.
Representing the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Oyo State, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, in his keynote address, emphasized that success would be measured not just by policies or meetings, but by real outcomes, well-nourished children, access to clean water and protection from vaccine-preventable diseases.
According to Oyelade, “The wellbeing of women and children through three fundamental pillars of public health Nutrition, Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and Immunization—are interlinked and vital to the survival, growth, and development of our communities.”
He stressed the need for strategic communication, advocacy, and community engagement on social and behavioral change. “We must ensure our messages are clear, culturally relevant, and widely disseminated. We must amplify grassroots voices and empower programs that drive behavior change,” he said.
“As Commissioner for Information, I am reminded of the power and responsibility that communication holds in the success of any public health intervention. Our communities can only benefit from nutrition programs if they are aware of them. Clean water and sanitation will only be effective when people understand and adopt good hygiene practices. Immunization will only reach its full potential if families trust and accept it.”
Oyelade thanked UNICEF for its continued support through technical expertise and resources. He urged participants to be bold in ideas, open to collaboration, and relentless in their commitment to service. “Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient future for all,” he concluded.
In his remarks, UNICEF’s Chief of Social and Behaviour Change, Abuja, Kshitiy Joshi, emphasized the urgency of rethinking communication as a tool for transformation “The world is changing everyday,” he declared.
He highlighted the importance of data-driven, people-centered communication in shaping public attitudes and behaviors. “We must go beyond awareness to action—addressing deeply rooted norms, influencing behaviors, and ensuring that no child is left behind.”
Joshi further noted that sustainable development for children cannot be achieved without the active involvement of Ministries of Information, who play a critical role in shaping public discourse and influencing societal behavior at scale.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Oyo State, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, represented by Director of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Bukola Bakare, reiterated the meeting’s goal to improve the wellbeing of women and children and ensure that every child survives, thrives, and grows up in a safe and nurturing environment.
“Essential family practices are simple yet powerful actions that families can take to improve children’s health, nutrition, and development,” he said. “From exclusive breastfeeding and handwashing with soap to proper home care for illnesses and timely immunizations, these practices, when consistently adopted, save lives and lay the foundation for a productive and healthy life.”
In their separate goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Osun State, Barrister Kolapo Alimi; Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media and Communication, Hon. Kayode Akinmade; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Ekiti State, Prince Olusesan Alabi; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lagos State, Mr. Olunde Sogunle; and Administrative Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Ondo State, Mr. Olanrewaju Akarakiri, commended UNICEF’s strategic role in promoting inclusive communication and policy engagement that prioritizes the welfare of children and women.
They described UNICEF as a trusted partner in progress, whose interventions have significantly impacted communities across the region. The representatives reaffirmed their states’ readiness to partner with UNICEF on future initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children and vulnerable populations in the Southwest.
Independent.ng
News
Poor Bye-Elections Results: Ohanaeze Tells Peter Obi Not To Contest 2027 Presidency

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, to rigorously reconsider his decision to contest the 2027 presidential election against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Igbo socio-cultural body, in an electronic statement on Tuesday August 19, hinged the call on what it described as the significant underperformance of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in the bye-elections held across 12 states in the country last Saturday.
Deputy President- General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, in the statement, noted: “The apex Igbo sociocultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, addresses the nation with a solemn pronouncement regarding the unsettling outcomes of the recent bye-elections conducted on Saturday, August 16, 2025, across sixteen constituencies nationwide.
“These electoral results, marked by the significant underperformance of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have elicited a profound sense of dismay and disillusionment throughout Nigeria.
“It is with a resolute sense of responsibility and candor that we declare: the opposition coalition has demonstrated a concerning inability to effectively challenge the incumbent ruling party as the nation approaches the critical 2027 elections.
“The unexpected victories of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, notably under the leadership of His Excellency, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, the Governor of Anambra State, over ADC candidates – particularly those supported by the former Governor, Mr. Peter Obi – represent a significant contradiction to the prevailing perception that the Southeast region unequivocally aligns itself with Mr. Obi’s political aspirations.
“This electoral result not only diminishes Mr. Obi’s perceived influence, but also prompts critical examination of the ADC’s viability as a credible and consequential political entity within Nigeria. The outcome of these elections serves as a vital indicator, revealing a concerning disparity between the expectations of the electorate and the demonstrable capabilities of the ADC.
“Given these developments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo feels obligated to communicate this unadulterated assessment to the leadership of the opposition coalition. The stark reality of the ADC’s electoral failures, has engendered considerable apprehension within the Nigerian populace concerning the party’s capacity to offer meaningful opposition or a viable alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). It is a matter of deep concern that, despite considerable anticipation that the ADC would secure a substantial number of seats, the party failed to achieve even a single victory in this crucial electoral exercise.
“As we reflect on these results, a thorough introspection of the ADC’s strategies and a more substantive engagement with the electorate become paramount. The party’s current approach, characterized by a disproportionate reliance on social media pronouncements and a perceived lack of meaningful interaction with the Nigerian citizenry, is demonstrably inadequate to surmount the challenges that lie ahead. The Igbo people, now more politically astute than ever, are disinclined to entrust their collective future to a weakened opposition party, whether it be the ADC or the Labour Party.
“Furthermore, we implore Mr. Peter Obi to rigorously reconsider his decision to contest the 2027 presidential election against His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The recent electoral defeats of his ADC-supported candidates serve as a stark reminder of the formidable challenges that await him.
“The political landscape is undergoing dynamic transformation, and it is imperative that Mr. Obi and his supporters accurately assess the prevailing realities. The Southeast governors and Igbo political leadership, under the leadership of Senator David Umahi, have publicly expressed their intention to deliver a significant portion, up to ninety percent, of the Southeast votes to President Tinubu.
“In conclusion, Ohanaeze Ndigbo reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the political advancement of the Igbo people and the broader Nigerian society. We implore all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue, comprehensively re-evaluate strategies, and collaborate in earnest to forge a future that embodies the collective aspirations and hopes of all Nigerians. The imperative for profound reflection and decisive action is unequivocally now.”
News
Igbo Presidency: ‘Not Peter Obi’ – Fresh Prophecy Reveals Southeast Politician To Rule Nigeria

As the Southeast region of Nigeria continues its pursuit of the presidency, aiming for the highest political office in the country, various prominent politicians from Eastern Nigeria have made multiple attempts to secure this significant position.
In light of these efforts, a new prophecy has emerged regarding the potential next Igbo president, though it is not referring to the celebrated Peter Obi.
Since 2015, Peter Obi has been a key figure in Southeast politics, consistently positioning himself as a strong candidate for the presidency of Nigeria.
Click the link to continue reading the story
News
Ibom Air Saga: 5 Revelations Comfort Emmanson Made On Altercation With Air Hostess

The Ibom Air passenger at the centre of a viral altercation, Comfort Emmanson, has finally spoken out about the incident that led to her being banned from flying with Nigerian airlines.
In an emotional statement, Emmanson recounted her experience and shared shocking details about what truly happened on the flight.
Here are five key revelations she made:
1. Faulty Phone Sparked the Dispute
Emmanson revealed that the entire confrontation began because one of her phones had a faulty power button.
She said she tried to explain to the flight attendant, Juliana, that she could only place it in flight mode.
A fellow passenger later helped her switch it off, yet Juliana allegedly left her with a warning: “You will see.”
2. She Was Stopped from Alighting Without Explanation
After landing in Lagos, Emmanson claimed she was prevented from leaving the aircraft despite doing nothing wrong.
According to her, Juliana blocked her way without clarifying the reason, triggering confusion and frustration.
3. She Was Dragged, Humiliated, and Recorded
She said her frontal hairpiece was pulled, her clothes were torn, and she was insulted.
In the chaos, videos captured her exposed body, which later went viral online.
4. Viral Videos Left Her Deeply Traumatised
She lamented that people made memes and stickers from her exposed images, leaving her ashamed, unable to work freely, and fearful about her reputation and future.
5. She Reacted Out of Pain and Anger
“I poked her back. I admit I wouldn’t have done that if I weren’t provoked,” she confessed.
Despite the controversy, Emmanson maintains she is not a “troublesome person” and never expected the matter to spiral into a nationwide scandal.
Recently, Delta State Governor’s aide Ossai Ovie Success offered her a ₦500,000 monthly job and a free trip, a gesture that could help her rebuild her life.
-
News2 weeks ago
2027 Election: Work Against North If Obi Can’t Become President, Archbishop Tells Igbos
-
News2 weeks ago
Winner Emerges As AI Predicts 2027 Presidential Election Between Tinubu, Obi, Atiku (See Result)
-
News2 weeks ago
2027 SHOCKER! New Prophecy Reveals On Peter Obi’s Joint Ticket With Atiku
-
Politics2 weeks ago
Primate Ayodele’s Prophecy On Jonathan’s Running Mate For 2027 Election Resurface
-
Lifestyle1 week ago
VIDEO: Mixed Reactions As Pastor Abel Damina Drops BOMBSHELL On Marrying Two Wives As Christian
-
News2 weeks ago
2027 Election: Jonathan, Peter Obi Deal Revealed
-
Politics1 week ago
2027: Ohanaeze Splits Over Tinubu’s Re-Election
-
Lifestyle6 days ago
Ibom Air Passenger Breaks Silence After Release From Prison, Reveals Next Action [VIDEO]