Connect with us

society

Youth Ambassador, Idahosa Makes Case for State Diaspora Agencies

Published

on

Youth Ambassador, Idahosa Makes Case for State Diaspora Agencies

 

Ambassador Collins Idahosa, Governor of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), European Chapter, has called on Nigerian authorities to consider institutionalising diaspora agencies at state level across the nation.

Idahosa, who is also the Brand Ambassador for The Global Clusters, a networking platform for entrepreneurs and nation builders, emphasised that the importance of the agency for national development cannot be overstated.

In a statement to THECONSCIENCE NG on Wednesday ahead of his birthday on Thursday, the youth ambassador urged Nigerian states to take a bold and strategic step in that regard.

According to the birthday message and call to action titled “State Diaspora Agencies: A Missing Link in Nigeria’s Development Strategy,” while the federal government has made commendable efforts through the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), meaningful diaspora engagement must also be embraced at the state level.

“States must take ownership of engaging their own citizens abroad—those who maintain family ties, support community projects, and wish to be part of their state’s future.”

The statement noted that “in 2023 alone, remittances from Nigerians abroad exceeded $20 billion—a figure that surpasses foreign direct investment and official development assistance combined.

“These funds support millions of households, drive local businesses, finance education, build homes, and provide emergency relief. However, beyond remittances, the Nigerian diaspora contributes through skills transfer, investments, technology partnerships, and global advocacy. These contributions reflect a deep connection to home and an untapped resource for structured development.”

The Global Clusters Ambassador commended Edo and Kwara states, which he said “have taken deliberate steps to establish diaspora-focused agencies and offices.”

He remarked: “The Edo State Diaspora Agency, recently reinforced by the appointment of Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor as Director-General, stands as a commendable example of institutionalising diaspora engagement. Similarly, Kwara State’s Office of Diaspora Matters reflects a forward-looking vision by recognising the value of its global citizens.”

He also acknowledged states such as Abia, Ondo, Lagos, and Anambra for appointing Commissioners or Special Assistants for Diaspora Affairs.

He insisted that while these efforts are encouraging, they are insufficient, as a Commissioner or Special Assistant can drive political will and offer visibility, but without a formal agency, there is no continuity, resource mobilisation, or programme implementation.

He further explained that a dedicated diaspora agency provides a permanent institutional framework for planning, coordination, monitoring, and evaluation of diaspora engagements.

He stated that it also enables states to align policies with NiDCOM and benefit from federal-level support and bilateral diaspora partnerships.

Speaking further, he explained that beyond government initiatives, innovative platforms like The Global Clusters, led by Ambassador Adekunle Badmus, are already pioneering solutions that align with this vision. As a Brand Ambassador for The Global Clusters, Idahosa said he has seen firsthand how this dynamic global platform is transforming engagement among entrepreneurs, professionals, and technocrats, fostering strategic connections and sustainable development.

He concluded that state governments must explore partnerships with platforms like The Global Clusters to maximise the contributions of their diaspora populations, drive innovation, and create sustainable economic opportunities.

society

Ajadi Meets Fijabi Family in Ibadan, Calls for PDP Unity Ahead of 2027 Polls

Published

on

Ajadi Meets Fijabi Family in Ibadan, Calls for PDP Unity Ahead of 2027 Polls

 

The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, held a strategic meeting with prominent Ibadan businessman, Chief Akinade Ismail Fijabi, and his son, Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi, at the elder statesman’s residence in Ibadan.

 

Though details of the closed-door meeting were not disclosed to journalists, Ambassador Ajadi described the engagement as a crucial step toward strengthening internal cohesion within the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

Speaking shortly after the meeting, Ajadi stressed the importance of unity among party stakeholders, noting that only a united front would position the PDP for victory in the state.

 

Our discussion centered on unity, collaboration, and the need to build a formidable structure that will guarantee victory for the PDP in 2027. We must work together as one family if we truly desire progress for Oyo State,” he said.

 

Ajadi further stressed that consultations with influential stakeholders across the state remain a key component of his political strategy, adding that inclusive dialogue would help consolidate support across party lines and communities.

 

“This is not about individual ambition; it is about collective responsibility. We are engaging leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots actors to ensure that our party remains strong, focused, and people-oriented,” he added.

 

Chief Akinade Ismail Fijabi, widely known as the Agba-Akin of Ibadanland, is regarded as a respected figure in business and social circles within the state. His influence, alongside that of his son, Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi, underscores the political significance of the meeting.

 

Hon. Saheed Fijabi, a former two-term member of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North West/South West under the All Progressives Congress (APC), recently aligned with the PDP and has remained an active player in the state’s political landscape. He notably served as chairman of the Oyo State @50 Committee, inaugurated by Governor Seyi Makinde to oversee the state’s golden jubilee celebrations.

 

The reports that the political observers believe the meeting may not be unconnected with ongoing realignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race in Oyo State, where key actors are already positioning and building alliances.

 

While neither Chief Fijabi nor his son spoke publicly on the outcome of the meeting, sources within the PDP suggest that such high-level engagements are part of broader efforts to reconcile interests and strengthen the party’s electoral prospects.

 

As the countdown to 2027 continues, Ajadi’s sustained consultations with influential stakeholders signal an intensifying political landscape in Oyo State, where unity, strategy, and grassroots connection are expected to play decisive roles.

Continue Reading

society

Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam (Omotayenreti): A Rising Star in Islamic Music

Published

on

Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam (Omotayenreti): A Rising Star in Islamic Music

By Taofik Afolabi

 

In a world where talent meets purpose, Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam, popularly known as Omotayenreti, stands out as a shining light in the Islamic music scene. Young, vibrant, and exceptionally gifted, she is steadily carving a niche for herself with a voice that resonates deeply with the soul.

Blessed with a naturally sonorous and captivating tone, Omotayenreti possesses a rare ability to connect with her audience through heartfelt lyrics and spiritually uplifting melodies. Her music is not just entertainment—it is a message of faith, hope, and devotion, delivered with sincerity and grace.
Despite her youth, she demonstrates remarkable artistry, discipline, and passion that set her apart from many of her peers. Each performance reflects her deep understanding of Islamic values, as she uses her talent as a tool to inspire, educate, and uplift listeners across all walks of life.

Omotayenreti is undoubtedly a star in the making, with all the qualities needed to rise to the top of the Islamic music world. Her dedication, unique sound, and powerful voice position her as one of the most promising female Islamic singers of her generation.

As she continues to grow and evolve, there is no doubt that Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam will leave an indelible mark on the industry—touching hearts, spreading positivity, and becoming a global ambassador for Islamic music.
Watch out for Omotayenreti, the future is bright, and her voice is just getting started.

 

Hadjia Akinosun Morhiyam (Omotayenreti): A Rising Star in Islamic Music
By Taofik Afolabi

Continue Reading

society

PDP Guber Aspirant, Ajadi Hails Olubadan, CCII Over Successful Completion Of Ibadan Cultural Festival

Published

on

PDP Guber Aspirant, Ajadi Hails Olubadan, CCII Over Successful Completion Of Ibadan Cultural Festival

 

A leading Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) governorship aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has commended the peaceful conduct and the success of this year’s edition of Ibadan Cultural Festival, describing it as a pride to all Ibadan Indigenes both at home and abroad.

 

Ibadan Cultural Week is an annual event and the 2026 edition was held at.the Lekan Salami Stadium Adamasingba Ibadan on Saturday.

The week celebrates the Ibadan’s rich heritage, unity, and pride, which usually features vibrant cultural displays, masquerades, and performances.

Ajadi, in a statement he personally signed on Sunday, lauded the Ibadan Cultural Festival, saying it is best of its kind not only in Ibadanland but in the entire Yoruba nation.

Ajadi said that the well conducted 2026 edition of Ibadan Week shows that the indigenes have deep love for their place of birth.

He said that Ibadan’s legacy of good culture, ambience environment and its status as the political Capital of the South West is a pride to all Indigenes.

He stated that Ibadan’s contribution to the national development and progress cannot be underestimated being the Capital of the old Western Region, which made its political status attracted many firsts to the city, which earn the city of the warriors ‘The Pace Setter.’

According to him, these include the first sky scrapper, Cocoa House, the Western Nigerian Television Services now Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), the Liberty Stadium, now Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Premier University, University of Ibadan and many others.

He therefore congratulated the indigenes especially the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu (Ladoja Arusa 1), saying his tenure will witness many more developments for the ancient city.

He called on Ibadan descendants to stand firm and ensure that the city continues to witness monumental developments.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending