
News
Faleke hosts Yahaya Bello in Lagos, throws support for former Governor’s Senatorial ambition
Member representing Ikeja Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, on Sunday hosted former Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, CON, at his residence in Ikeja, Lagos, where both leaders emphasized political unity, reconciliation, and continued development.
Bello, accompanied by members of his entourage, was warmly received by Faleke and his family during the courtesy visit, which provided an opportunity for both politicians to reflect on leadership, governance, and the future of Kogi State.
Speaking during the visit, Faleke expressed appreciation to the former governor for the gesture, describing it as a demonstration of brotherhood and mutual respect.
He recalled that Bello had previously paid him a similar visit in Abuja, noting that such engagements help strengthen political relationships and foster unity among leaders.
“I want to thank you for finding time to visit us, rejoice with us, and dine with my family. This is not the first time you have shown such goodwill. Your visits demonstrate the importance of maintaining strong bonds of friendship and mutual respect,” Faleke said.

The lawmaker commended Bello’s record as governor of Kogi State, expressing confidence that his achievements in office would serve as a strong foundation for his senatorial ambition.
“As we prepare for the campaign season, I want to wish you success. Your achievements will continue to speak for you. The people can see the impact of your leadership and the difference you made while serving as governor,” he said.
Faleke added that Bello’s performance in office had earned him substantial goodwill among the electorate and expressed optimism about his prospects in the forthcoming election.
He also praised Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, for sustaining governance and development initiatives in the state.
“I have commended Governor Ododo both privately and publicly. He is doing very well, and I wish him continued success in serving the people of Kogi State,” Faleke stated.
Reflecting on political reconciliation, the lawmaker stressed that politics should not be treated as a do-or-die affair, noting that former rivals often find common ground in the interest of peace and development.
“In politics, the impossible can become possible. People who were once perceived as opponents can become allies. Life is too short for unnecessary political divisions. We should focus on unity and collective progress,” he said.
Faleke also described Lagos as a welcoming and accommodating state where individuals are judged by their contributions rather than their ethnic or regional backgrounds.
“Lagos appreciates people who mean well. The state welcomes everyone and rewards hard work, dedication, and good intentions regardless of where they come from,” he added.
Responding, Bello thanked Faleke and his family for the warm reception and hospitality extended to him and his entourage.
The former governor commended Faleke’s leadership qualities and contributions to public service, describing him as one of the political leaders who embody the values and leadership philosophy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I am proud of you and your accomplishments. Through the mentorship and teachings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have leaders like you who continue to make meaningful contributions to governance and nation-building,” Bello said.
He emphasized the importance of unity in advancing development, stressing that political leaders must continue working together in the interest of their people.
“Whatever we seek to achieve for our state and our people becomes easier when we are united. We must continue to work together for progress, development, and the overall good of our communities,” he said.
Bello also expressed appreciation to Faleke’s family for the hospitality shown during the visit, describing the engagement as an opportunity to further strengthen ties among political leaders committed to national development.
The meeting comes amid increasing political consultations ahead of the 2027 general elections, with both leaders reaffirming the importance of unity, reconciliation, and service to the people.
Business
AFRAA welcomes Enugu Air, strengthens Nigeria’s Domestic Aviation growth
The African Airlines Association (AFRAA) has admitted Enugu Air as Member, extending the Association’s membership base in Nigeria’s fast-growing domestic aviation market and reaffirming AFRAA’s commitment to supporting the continued development of African carriers across the continent.
This was announced by AFRAA in Nairobi on Wednesday, making Enugu Air the 50th Member of the association, joining the AFRAA airline fraternity, collectively representing more than 85 per cent of total international traffic carried by African airlines.
Speaking on the occasion, AFRAA Secretary General, Mr. Abdérahmane Berthé, said, “We are delighted to welcome Enugu Air into the AFRAA fraternity.

“As a state-backed carrier serving Nigeria’s rapidly expanding domestic market, Enugu Air represents the kind of homegrown investment that is vital to building resilient air connectivity across our continent.

“We look forward to supporting the airline through the IOSA certification process and to its continued growth within the AFRAA membership, as we work together to advance the cause of unified African skies.”
Reacting to the development, the CEO of Enugu, Capt Tolu Ita, described the admission into AFRAA as a major milestone in the airline’s short history.
“We are honoured to join the AFRAA fraternity. This membership underscores Enugu Air’s commitment to safe, reliable, and affordable air travel for Nigerians while contributing to the vision of a unified African aviation market.
“We look forward to collaborating with fellow AFRAA members and leveraging the association’s support as we grow our network and pursue IOSA certification,” Tolu stated.
Founded on July 7, 2025, Enugu Air commenced commercial operations with a fleet of Embraer E170/E190/E195 aircraft.
The airline, which has its headquarters in Enugu and operates from the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, currently serves nine domestic destinations including Enugu, Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano and Benin City.
As part of the airline’s growth strategy, Enugu Air plans to expand further across Nigeria and, in subsequent phases, to launch regional and international routes across Africa, Europe, and beyond.
As part of its growth strategy, Enugu Air plans to expand further across Nigeria and, in subsequent phases, to launch regional and international routes across Africa, Europe, and beyond.
The admission of Enugu Air aligns with AFRAA’s strategic priorities and strengthens the voice of the association. Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its fastest-growing economies, remains central to the realization of a truly integrated African aviation market.
Meanwhile, founded in Accra, Ghana, in April 1968, and headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, AFRAA’s mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry.
The association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable air transport industry in Africa, where African airlines become key players and drivers of African economic development.
AFRAA membership cuts across the entire continent and includes all the major intercontinental African operators.
The association’s members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines.
News
Aiyedatiwa appoints 1,004 aides, picks commissioner, three advisers
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved a fresh round of appointments involving a commissioner, three Special Advisers and 1,000 other aides.
The appointments comprise 90 Senior Special Assistants and 910 Special Assistants, with the governor saying the move is intended to reinforce his administration and improve its reach across the state.
Erelu Taibat Yemi Oloruntoba, from Akoko North-West Local Government Area, has been nominated as Commissioner for Special Duties. Her nomination has been transmitted to the state House of Assembly for consideration and confirmation.
The governor also appointed Hon. Abimbola Fajolu as Special Adviser on Environment, Chief Ade Adeniyi as Special Adviser on Rural and Community Development, and Mr Muyiwa Ogunyemi as Special Adviser on Transport.
Among those named as Senior Special Assistants are Erelu Toyin Ogungbure, Women Mobilisation (South); Bidemi Obayangbon, Forestry; Gboluge Olufunmi Alex, Community Engagement (South); Hon. Akin Adeniyi, Community Engagement (Central); and Obayan Theophilus Ayodeji, Community Engagement (North).

Others include Kelvin Solomon, Students Affairs; Adeolu Iwakun, Volunteer Services; Samson Job Bazuaye, Oil and Gas; Fade Ojamomi, Youth Empowerment and Job Creation; Sam Adepoju, Public Engagement; and Alhaji Samad Orijeminiyi, Scholarship.
Also appointed are Victor Omodara, Grassroots Mobilisation; Abayomi Adefolalu, Photography; and Alhaji Abdukadiri Adenoyi, Prince Nzuoma Egbulefu and Alhaji Garba Goni, all for Non-Indigenes.
News
40 feared dead as boat capsizes in Sokoto
About 40 people are suspected to have lost their lives after a boat carrying farmers to their rice farms capsized in Gorau town, Goronyo Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
The incident occurred while the victims were crossing a stream to access their farms.
An eyewitness said more than 70 people were on the boat when it capsized shortly after taking off.
The village head was among those on board but he was reportedly rescued.
“So far, we have recovered about 40 bodies, while six people, including the village head, were rescued,” a local journalist who was at the scene, Sharhabilu Yahuza Kiliya, told our reporter.

According to him, the victims comprised farm owners and labourers who had been engaged to harvest rice.
“The canoe capsized shortly after take-off. Rescue operations are still ongoing, with local divers searching for those still missing and recovering bodies,” he said. (Daily Trust)
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