APGA State Chairmen hail Gov. Soludo, Pass Vote of Confidence on National Leadership

 

APGA STATE CHAIRMEN HAIL GOV. SOLUDO, PASS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE ON NATIONAL LEADERSHIP

 

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 Congratulates National Legal Adviser, Barr. Victor Agunzi on his 55th Birthday

 

APGA CONGRATULATES NATIONAL LEGAL ADVISER, BARR. VICTOR AGUNZI ON HIS 55TH BIRTHDAY

 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, has extended warm felicitations to the party’s National Legal Adviser, Barrister Victor Agunzi, on the joyous occasion of his 55th birthday.

Chief Barr. Ezeokenwa described Barr. Agunzi as a committed legal luminary whose wealth of experience and dedication have been instrumental in advancing the interests of the party. He lauded his consistency, brilliance, and tireless service in ensuring that APGA remains firmly guided by the rule of law.

In his message, the National Chairman highlighted the invaluable role Barr. Agunzi has played in safeguarding the legal framework of the party, providing sound counsel, and defending APGA’s democratic values. According to him, Barr. Agunzi’s life is a shining example of selfless service, integrity, and excellence in legal practice and political engagement.

Chief Barr. Ezeokenwa further prayed for God’s continued guidance, wisdom, and protection over the celebrant. He wished Barr. Agunzi more fruitful years in good health, greater accomplishments, and renewed strength to continue his service to the party and the nation at large.

The leadership and members of APGA nationwide also joined in celebrating the distinguished legal adviser, acknowledging his immense contributions to the growth and stability of the party. They reaffirmed their collective appreciation of his dedication to APGA’s vision and principles.

As Barr. Agunzi marks this milestone age, the entire APGA family celebrates his achievements and looks forward to many more years of his invaluable contributions to the party and Nigeria’s democracy.

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 ANNOUNCES CONTINUATION OF MEMBERSHIP DRIVE, DIGITALIZATION OF DELEGATE ELECTIONS 

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, Oyo Library Board Forge Alliance Against Drug Abuse

 BEST BRAIN INITIATIVE, OYO BOARD FORGE ALLIANCE AGAINST DRUG ABUSE

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.

Oyo State Library Board Felicitates Soun of Ogbomoso on His Birthday

 OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD FELICITATES SOUN OF OGBOMOSO ON HIS 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.

Dr. Bamidele Kogbe Bags National Honour, Ibadan Book Club Reacts

 

DR. BAMIDELE KOGBE BAGS NATIONAL HONOUR, IBADAN BOOK CLUB REACTS

 

The Ibadan Book Club has congratulated Dr. Bamidele Ibrahim Kogbe, esteemed author and dedicated civil servant, on being named a recipient of the prestigious EPIC Award during the 2025 International Civil Service Day celebrations recently held in Nigeria.

According to the Club, the recognition is a well-deserved honour that celebrates Dr. Kogbe’s exemplary contributions to public service.

In a statement signed and released by the founder of the Club, Wole Adedoyin, the Ibadan Book Club commended Dr. Kogbe’s outstanding achievements in the Nigerian civil service. The Club described him as an inspirational figure whose professional and creative pursuits continue to motivate young writers and professionals nationwide.

The EPIC Award—standing for Efficient, Productive, Incorruptible and Citizen-Centered—was instituted by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation under the leadership of Didi Esther Walson-Jack. The award recognizes federal civil servants who have distinguished themselves in service across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.

Dr. Kogbe currently serves as an Assistant Chief Administrative Officer in the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, where he has consistently demonstrated dedication, leadership, and integrity. His recognition with the EPIC Award reflects his relentless pursuit of excellence in governance and administration.

In addition to his civil service career, Dr. Kogbe is a celebrated literary figure. His published works include Songs of a Wounded Dove (2007), Child of Destiny (2009), The Gods Had Gone to Sleep, and The Young Farmer (2009). These works have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s literary landscape.

Dr. Kogbe is also a former recipient of the 2010 Oyo State Merit Award in Literary Arts, further cementing his place among Nigeria’s notable literary minds.

Academically, he holds a PhD in Politics and International Relations from the University of Dundee in the United Kingdom. He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Administration of Nigeria and a former visiting research fellow at the International Centre for Policing and Security, University of South Wales, UK.

Wole Adedoyin, while applauding the award committee, stated that Dr. Kogbe’s achievement should serve as an inspiration to civil servants who balance their professional responsibilities with meaningful societal contributions. He described Dr. Kogbe’s story as a model of the intellectual leadership Nigeria urgently needs.

The Ibadan Book Club, committed to promoting reading culture and intellectual development in Oyo State and beyond, reaffirmed its support for writers and public servants like Dr. Kogbe. The Club also encouraged other creatives in the public sector to follow his inspiring example.

 

Oyo Library Board Flags Off Readership Campaign in Igboora

 OYO LIBRARY BOARD FLAGS OFF READERSHIP CAMPAIGN IN IGBOORA 

The Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, Hon. Yemi Taiwo recently  declared open the One-Day Readership Promotion Campaign held at the Igboora Township Hall, Ibarapa Central Local Government. 

The event, themed *“Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success,”* marked a significant push toward strengthening reading culture and academic development in rural communities.

Represented by Alhaja Sekinat Akanbi, Hon. Taiwo in his opening address acknowledged the presence and commitment of educators, students, community leaders, and sponsors in fostering literacy development. He underscored the role of libraries in shaping critical thinking, academic achievement, and continuous learning, especially in today’s information-driven world.

Hon. Taiwo emphasized that the ability to read, analyze, and comprehend information is now more crucial than ever. He called on educators and youth to embrace reading not just as an academic exercise but as a lifelong companion. He assured attendees that the Library Board remains committed to removing barriers to access and to making reading enjoyable and accessible for all.

He further stated that the Board is dedicated to improving library infrastructure, increasing access to reading resources, and launching creative programmes to stimulate reading interest among diverse populations. With those remarks, Hon. Taiwo declared the campaign officially open and called on all stakeholders to unite in advancing a culture of knowledge and literacy.

In his welcome speech, the State Librarian, Mr. Awotona Samuel, highlighted the importance of nurturing a strong reading culture among Nigerian youth. He lauded the turnout and enthusiasm of participants, stressing that libraries are key drivers of academic excellence, discipline, and personal growth. Mr. Awotona encouraged students to discover joy in reading and urged community leaders to help revive libraries within their communities.

The day’s activities included an enlightening lecture, the launch of Library Ambassadors, engaging Book Tasting sessions, and a competitive Spelling Challenge. Mr. Awotona applauded the active participation of students and reiterated the need for collective efforts in sustaining a vibrant reading culture across the state.

The Special Guest of Honour, Hon. Adeleke Olusola, represented by Hon. Atilola Oyeyemi, Chief of Staff of the Local Government, commended the initiative, noting that it was the first of its kind in Ibarapa Central. He reiterated the commitment of the local administration to building a modern library facility in the area, encouraging students to take full advantage of the learning opportunities being presented.

Guest speaker Dr. Oyewo Rasaq Oyekanmi delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled *“Building a Sound Mind for Academic Success.”* He explained that academic excellence stems from a sound mind—defined by clarity of thought, emotional balance, and resilience. Dr. Oyewo offered practical strategies for mental development and called for collaborative efforts from families, educators, and the broader community in supporting students' mental wellness.

Dr. Oyewo concluded by advocating for a balanced educational approach that incorporates mental health awareness into the school curriculum. He stressed that sound minds create successful students and responsible citizens, inspiring all present to view mental well-being as central to educational advancement.

In his goodwill message, His Royal Majesty Oba Jimoh Olajide Titiloye, the Olu Igboora, represented by Chief Gani Adefemi, welcomed the initiative to his domain and commended the organizers. He expressed optimism that the planned library project in the area would accelerate educational growth and strengthen community development through literacy.

The event, attended by traditional rulers, educators, government officials, and students from across Ibarapa Central, was a remarkable step in repositioning libraries and reading as foundational tools for national development.