The Elites Watch, 330, AbdulAzeez Attah Road, Sawmill, Ilorin (2026)

02/06/2026

Students’ Welfare & Security Summit: NANS Kwara Welfare Director to celebrate AAT University founder Alhaji Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin as ‘distinguished honouree’ at maiden summit

The Elites Watch Online Newspapers, Ilorin, Kwara State| June 2, 2026.

The Director of Welfare, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Kwara State axis, Comrade Muh’d Jamiu Abdulsalam Olarewaju, has named the founder of Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin University (AATU), Alhaji Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin, as the distinguished honouree for the maiden edition of the Students’ Welfare and Security Summit.

Abdulsalam disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, saying the recognition forms part of efforts by his office to spotlight individuals and institutions contributing meaningfully to students’ welfare, education advancement, and youth development in Kwara State.

According to the student leader, the honour was in recognition of Alhaji Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin’s contributions to education, entrepreneurship, community development, and his vision in establishing a private university designed to address the growing demand for quality higher education and innovation-driven learning.

He noted that the emergence of Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin University has continued to attract attention within Nigeria’s educational landscape due to its focus on academic excellence, technological advancement, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

“Through the establishment of AATU, Alhaji Abubakar AbdulRazaq Toyin has demonstrated a commitment towards creating opportunities for young people and strengthening access to quality education in Kwara State and beyond,” Abdulsalam stated.

Located in Ganmo (Oke-Ogba), Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, AATU was among the private universities granted operational licences by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2025 to commence academic activities.

The institution was established with the vision of producing graduates who are academically excellent, morally upright, globally competitive, and entrepreneurship-driven.

The university founder, who also serves as Chancellor, is widely recognised as a businessman, philanthropist, educational advocate, and community development enthusiast whose educational philosophy centres around combining academic learning with character development and practical innovation.

In August 2025, the NUC approved 14 full-time undergraduate programmes for the university for the 2025/2026 academic session across three faculties.

The Faculty of Science and Computing offers programmes including Computer Science, Cyber Security, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology.

Other approved programmes under the Faculty of Arts, Management and Social Sciences include Accounting, History and Diplomatic Studies, Business Administration, and Economics, while the Faculty of Environmental Sciences runs programmes in Architecture, Estate Management, Quantity Surveying, and Urban and Regional Planning.

The institution’s leadership structure also features Professor AbdulRauf Ambali as the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, while Justice (Dr.) Isa Ayo Salami, OFR, CFR, chairs the Board of Trustees.

Members of the Board of Trustees include notable academics and professionals such as Prof. Popoola Ademola Oladapo, Prof. Angela Freeman Miri, Prof. Umaru Alhaji Pate, and Shehu Ahmed Moyosore, Esq.

The maiden Students’ Welfare and Security Summit is expected to focus on addressing pressing concerns surrounding students’ welfare, safety, and the overall learning environment across tertiary institutions in Kwara State.

29/05/2026

Ifelodun Local Council chair Femi Yusuf, Aregbesola’s Personal Assistant Olateju Ishola rejoice Kwara APC Youth Ambassador Afolabi Saliu over twin baby boys arrival

…pay separate congratulatory visits to his family

The Elites Watch Online Newspapers | May 29, 2026.

The Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Femi Yusuf, and Personal Assistant to former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, Hon. Olateju Ishola, have paid their congratulatory visits to the family of APC Youth Ambassador in Kwara, Afolabi Ahmed Saliu, following the arrival of his twin baby boys.

The congratulatory visits to the family residence of Afolabi, provide opportunities for the two political figures to felicitate and offer prayers with the newborns and their parents.

Speaking during his visit, Hon. Femi Yusuf described the birth of the twins as a blessing and a moment of joy not only for the family but also for associates and supporters of the APC youth ambassadors' family in Kwara State.

He prayed for divine protection, good health, and wisdom for the children as they grow.

Similarly, the Personal Assistant to the former governor of Osun state, Hon. Olateju Ishola, while congratulating Afolabi Saliu and his wife, during his visit described the arrival of the twin boys as a source of happiness and fulfilment.

He urged the family to remain grateful and committed to raising the children with sound values and good upbringing.

Family members and friends who received the visitors expressed appreciation for their show of love and solidarity, noting that the visits reflected the strong relationships and bonds shared within the political community.

The father of the twins Afolabi Saliu, while responding, thanked the visitors for identifying with his family during the joyous moment, expressing gratitude for their prayers, support, and kind gestures.

The separate visits have continued to attract goodwill messages from supporters and associates across Ifelodun Local Government and beyond, as many celebrate the family over the safe arrival of the newborn twins.

27/05/2026

Eid-ul-Adha: Engr. Saleeman Adedoyin urges Kwarans to remain united beyond politics

The Elites Watch Online Newspapers, Ilorin, Kwara State| May 27, 2026.

As Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, the Founder and Chairman of the SAS Foundation, Engr. Saleeman Adedoyin, has called on the people of Kwara State to remain united and not allow politics to divide them as activities ahead of future elections begin to gather momentum.

Engr. Saleeman made the call in his Eid-ul-Adha goodwill message to the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Chiefs, Mai Martaba Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, as well as the Muslim Ummah in Kwara State, Nigeria, and across the world.

He described Eid-ul-Adha as a sacred occasion that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

According to him, the celebration serves as a reminder of the need for unity, peaceful coexistence, love, and service to humanity.

“As the political tides become heightened, we must not allow politics to divide us. The unity, harmony, and peaceful coexistence that Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State are known for must remain our collective priority,” he stated.

He urged residents, irrespective of political affiliations, to continue to see themselves as one people bound by a shared history, culture, and collective aspirations.

“Eid-ul-Adha is a significant occasion that reminds us of the values of faith, selflessness, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. I extend my heartfelt felicitations to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, and to all Muslim faithful celebrating this blessed season. May this period inspire us to strengthen our commitment to peace, unity, and humanity,” he added.

The SAS Foundation Chairman also commended Muslims for their steadfast devotion and acts of worship during the season, praying that Almighty Allah accepts their sacrifices, supplications, and acts of obedience.

He further urged the Muslim Ummah to use the occasion to show kindness to the less privileged and vulnerable members of society, stressing that the true essence of Eid lies in sharing, empathy, and compassion.

“As we celebrate, let us remember those in need and continue to extend love and support to one another. The values of kindness, sacrifice, and compassion should remain part of our daily lives beyond the festive season,” he said.

Engr. Saleeman also called for sustained prayers for the peace, unity, and development of Kwara State and Nigeria, noting that collective efforts and prayers remain essential for national progress and stability.

“In these challenging times, our unity remains our greatest strength. Let us continue to pray for our leaders and work together for the growth, peace, and prosperity of our dear state and country. May Almighty Allah continue to bless Nigeria and guide us toward a better future,” he added.

26/05/2026

2027: Major political shift as scores of Magaji Ngeri ADC local, ward excos, dump party, back PDP’s Kale Kawu for Kwara governorship

Mustapha AbdulWahab, The Elites Watch Online Newspapers, Ilorin, Kwara State | May 26, 2026.

Ahead of the 2027 elections in Kwara, the political landscape in the state has began to take shape as scores of African Democratic Congress (ADC) members, including the local government and ward executives in Magaji Ngeri Ward, Ilorin West Local Government Area of the state, tendered their resignation letters to the party, citing the ADC’s “weak structures to win elections in the axis.”

According to a copy of resignation letter obtained by THE ELITES WATCH ONLINE NEWSPAPERS, over twenty members of the Ilorin West ADC and ward executives in Magaji Ngeri Ward, Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara, have dumped the party, throwing their weight behind the PDP governorship candidate for the 2027 election, Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu.

The resignation letter dated Sunday, May 24, 2026, was jointly signed by the defectors and addressed to the Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Chairman, Afolabi Hassan Taiwo.

The defectors, including the local government and ward executives of the ADC in Magaji Ngeri Ward, stated that their decision to quit the party was necessary due to recent political developments in the area, thanking the ADC leadership for the opportunity to serve in various capacities.

They, however, said that preparedness are in top gear to canvass massive votes for the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara, emphasizing that backing the Engr. Sulaiman Bolakale Kawu will help ensure the area produces the governor in the upcoming general elections.

Signatories of the resignation letters include Adam Jimba (Ilorin West ADC Assistant Auditor); Abubakar Isiaq (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Secretary); AbdulKadir Kafayat (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Women Leader); Ahmed Fatimoh (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Assistant Women Leader),

Other ward officials who resigned their membership include Omotosho AbdulRasaq (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Financial Secretary); AbdulAzeez Bolaji (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Organizing Secretary); Busari Olaitan Jamiu (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward PRO); Olanrewaju Suly.B (PWD); Zubair Muhammed (Magaji Ngeri ADC Ward Assistant Youth Leader), and 20 other members.

25/05/2026

[ICYMI]| House of Assembly Primaries: Omupo APC stakeholders petition party leadership, demand Kwara APC youth leader Lawal Sulaimon Duduyemi’s resignation over alleged dual role

The Elites Watch Online Newspapers, Ilorin Kwara State| May 25, 2025.

Stakeholders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Omupo Constituency, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, have formally petitioned the state leadership of the party, demanding the resignation of the Kwara State Youth Leader, Mr. Lawal Sulaimon Duduyemi, over alleged conflict of interest, in the aftermath of the House of Assembly primaries.

According to a copy of petition addressed to the Kwara APC State Chairman, Prince Sunday Adeniran Fagbemi, signed by Samuel Oladele on behalf of APC stakeholders across the eight (8) political wards in Omupo Constituency, the concerned APC stakeholders expressed concern over Duduyemi’s continued role as State Youth Leader while simultaneously contesting for the Omupo State Constituency seat in the Kwara State House of Assembly.

The copies of the petition dated Thursday May 19, 2026, and acknowledged on Monday, May 25, 2026, were sent to the APC National Secretariat, the Kwara APC State Working Committee, and the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

The petitioners further stated that Duduyemi’s dual position within the APC could compromise the credibility, fairness, and transparency of the outcomes of the just-concluded party’s House of Assembly primary election.

According to the petitioners, the continued participation of the youth leader in official party activities, particularly those connected to the primaries in Ifelodun Local Government Area, violates the spirit of internal democracy as enshrined in the party’s constitution.

The stakeholders specifically referenced Articles 21 and 22 of the APC constitution, which they said require party officers to “act in good faith and avoid actions capable of undermining the interests of other members.”

The petition further alleged that Duduyemi’s frequent public appearances and photographs with senior party leaders and members of the House of Representatives screening panel from the party’s National Headquarters were creating what they described as “undue influence” capable of affecting the integrity of the primaries.

The group also accused the youth leader and his supporters of promoting the slogan, “Bi Oti e dibo, O ti wole,” interpreted as “you are already chosen without election,” alleging that the slogan suggests a predetermined outcome ahead of the official announcement of the results of just-concluded party primaries.

They, therefore, urged the party hierarchy to ensure justice and fairness for all cleared aspirants who contested the Omupo Constituency ticket, insisting that no candidate should enjoy undue advantage through access to party structures.

“Our request is not against any individual but for the integrity of the primaries process and the credibility of the party in Omupo Constituency,” the petition read in part.

The concerned APC stakeholders maintained that the recusal or resignation of the State Youth Leader from party activities connected to the primaries would help reassure aspirants and party faithful of a free, fair, and transparent exercise while also preventing possible post-primary disputes.

24/05/2026

PHOTO STORY: Celebrations, prayers, as serving HoA member AGF Salahudeen, Hon. Mukaila Adigun, political associates, other dignitaries graced APC Youth Ambassador Afolabi Saliu’s twin boys' naming ceremony in Idofian

… Saliu thanks dignitaries, well-wishers for attending

Mustapha Abdulwahab, The Elites Watch Online Newspaper | May 24, 2026.

The atmosphere in Idofian, a popular town in Ifelodun local government area of Kwara state, yesterday, Saturday, May 23, 2026, was filled with joyful celebrations and prayers as serving Member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing Omupo constituency, Hon. Ganiyu Afolabi Salahudeen, APC aspirant for Omupo constituency, Hon. Mukaila Adigun, members of the Kwara Legacy Group, political associates, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the naming ceremony of twin boys of renowned APC Youth Ambassador Afolabi Saliu.

The occasion, which attracted large numbers of personalities from within and outside the Idofian community, became a gathering of celebration of joy as guests trooped in to celebrate with the Renowned Youth Ambassador and his family over the safe arrival of their twin babies.

At the naming ceremony, prominent Islamic clerics offered special prayers for the newborn twins and their parents.

The Baba N Dofian of Idofian Kingdom, Alhaji AbdulHameed Saheed Salahudeen (Al-Adaby) prayed for spiritual guidance, wisdom, and longevity of life upon the children as they begin their journey in life.

For his part, Chief Imam of Idofian Kingdom, Fadeelatul- Sheikh Muhammad Tohir Ahmad Alao, described the father of newborn twins as “a proud son of Idofian kingdom,” saying that the arrival of the twins is a reward for his kindness and love for his community.

He, meanwhile, admonished the parents to always be steadfast in religious teachings, reminding them of the need to draw themselves closer to Almighty Allah at all times.

The cleric also prayed for abundant blessings upon the children.

In his remarks, the APC Youth Ambassador Saliu Afolabi expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the gift of the twins.

He expressed his sense of appreciation to everyone who honored the invitation despite their busy schedule.

He equally thanked friends, political associates, family members, and well-wishers for their support, prayers, and show of love extended towards their family.

Notable guests present at the naming ceremony were the serving House of Assembly Member Representing Omupo Constituency, Hon. Ganiyu Afolabi Salahudeen; APC House of Assembly aspirant, Hon. Mukaila Adigun; Member of Kwara Legacy Group, Comrade Babatunde Saka;

Others include, Kwara NSCDC Alagbado Division Officer and the representative of Kwara NSCDC Oke-Oyi Division Officer, among other prominent figures, business associates, community leaders, party loyalists, and associates who came to felicitate with the family.

The ceremony ended on good notes with entertainment, exchange of pleasantries, and photo sessions.

17/05/2026

Meet Hon. Jimoh Mukaila Adigun: Experienced ex-councilor eyeing Omupo Constituency seat in Kwara Assembly

The Elites Watch Online Newspaper | May 17, 2026.

Honorable Jimoh Mukaila Adigun is a businessman and grassroots politician who hails from Idofian Ward 2 in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. He was born on August 6, to the family of late Alhaji Jimoh Akanbi, a popular motorcycle merchant in Kabba-Kajola, Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state.

Adigun’s early life was rooted in Kwara before his education took him across the country. He attended and completed his early secondary and primary education at Ajeromi Ifelodun Secondary School, Lagos, and United Anglican Primary School, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

He also holds a National Diploma from Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, and Higher National Diploma from Lagos State Polytechnic.

Adigun’s first foray into elected office came in 1997 when he served as Honorable Councilor representing Idofian District in Ifelodun LGA. A year earlier, he had cut his teeth in party administration as Administrative Secretary for the defunct Social Democratic Party in Kwara State in 1993, giving him early exposure to party structure and grassroots mobilization.

Those roles have shaped his understanding of governance at the ward level — where policies meet people.

Away from politics, Adigun has built a career in industry. He is Managing Director of Almictab Oil & Gas Nig. Ltd., a position he has held since 2007, and previously led Chemtech Digitronic Nig. Ltd. between 2002 and 2006. His earlier roles included positions at Almictab Oil & Gas from 2016 to 2019.

As a results-driven administrator, his CV marks key strengths in strategic thinking, relationship management, team management, conflict resolution, transparent decision-making, and commitment to excellence.

Adigun is fluent in English and Yoruba, and he is positioning himself as a candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) who understands both the cultural and economic realities of Omupo constituency. His hobbies includes traveling, reading, and politics — reflecting his passion for “a wide outlook with local roots.”

With the APC primaries for the House of Assembly scheduled to hold on May 20, 2026, Adigun is one of the three (3) cleared aspirants vying for the Omupo ticket. He is running on a platform of service, experience, and accessibility — with the mantra that representation “start with listening to the people.”

As the contest unfolds, Adigun’s profile as a former councilor and long-standing party member position him as the choice of the esteemed members of the across the eight (8) political wards in Omupo constituency in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara state, who prioritize track record over rhetoric.

16/05/2026

BREAKING: Kwara’s House of Rep hopeful Ayoola Fakunle monitors APC primaries in Offa, Ifelodun, Oyun LGAs, says Tinubu’s back female candidates

The Elites Watch Online Newspaper | May 16, 2026.

A House of Representatives hopeful for Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun federal constituency under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara, Amb. (Hon.) Ayoola Ronke Fakunle, has restated his confidence of victory at the ongoing APC primaries across the forty-two political wards in Ifelodun, Offa, and Oyun local government areas, as voting delays continued at Ojomu Central B Ward as of Saturday afternoon.

The female aspirant, who spoke to her supporters during a routine visit to Ojomu Ojomu Central B Ward in Offa LGA at about 12:45 pm.

“I have been going across the 42 political wards as my routine checks on the primaries, I am here to inspect and check upon my people at Ojomu Central B Ward in Offa local government area. We are still waiting for election materials to arrive so we can begin the direct primaries in line with the party guidelines,” Ayoola stated.

Ayoola linked her campaign to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment towards gender inclusion, noting the President’s backing for female candidacy.

“As you can see, it is now 12:45 pm and our people are still here waiting to cast their votes for us. For your information, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown strong support for gender inclusion especially the female candidacy. We are confident that with a free, fair, and credible primaries, we are costing to victory by the special grace of God Almighty.”

Ayoola further added that she is confident of representing Ifelodun, Offa, and Oyun LGAs at the federal level in Abuja if she emerges as the party’s candidate.

“I am confident that with a free, fair, and credible primaries, we’re on course for victory by the special grace of God Almighty,” she said.

16/05/2026

2027: ‘Our demography must not be left behind, we are winning the primaries,” — Kwara APC House of Rep hopeful Ayoola Fakunle urges strong support for women's candidacy

The Elites Watch Online Newspaper | May 16, 2026.

A House of Representatives hopeful for Ifelodun/Offa/Oyun federal constituency under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara, Amb. (Hon.) Ayoola Ronke Fakunle, has called on party members and leaders to rally behind women's candidacy at the ongoing party primaries for the federal constituencies in the state.

Ayoola made this statement on Saturday while addressing her supporters in her hometown of Ipee, Oyun Local Government Area of Kwara State.

The female aspirant, who is also a seasoned legislative aide, emphasized that women and youth demographics “must not be left behind in the contest,” stressing that these groups would be dutifully represented if elected at the primaries.

She further stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has earlier appealed to party leaders and members to consider women and youth aspirants in ensuring fair representation of the demography at the national level.

While reaffirming her commitment to party ideals and grassroots engagement, Ayoola urged the party faithful across the forty-one wards to stay calm, avoid violence, and come out in large numbers to vote for her in the upcoming election.

14/05/2026

Kwara 2027: Consider youthful candidacy, competence, grassroots connection in electing APC gov’ship flagbearer – Group urges Gov. AbdulRazaq

The Elites Watch Online Newspapers | May 14, 2026.

A group of young-minded professionals under the aegis of Kwara Youth Advocate (KYA) has called on the leadership of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state to consider youthful candidacy, competence, and grassroots connection in electing the party’s flagbearer for the governorship seat, as momentum gathers ahead of the scheduled APC primaries on May 23, 2026.

The convener of the group, Comrade Muhammad Abdulwaris Adangba, made this appeal on Wednesday in Ilorin during his appearance as a guest on a popular radio program titled ‘Oro Ilu’. He was speaking on the topic ‘Youth Involvement in Politics and Governance: 2027 APC Governorship ticket in focus’ where he advocated for increased participation and inclusivity of young persons in the political affairs of their state against the old order.

Adangba, who is also a youth advocate, said Nigerian youths must become active participants in shaping the nation's political landscape, adding that the governorship ticket of the ruling APC in Kwara state should be considered for youth aspirants.

The group, however, made a case for Captain Ahmad Mahmoud whom they described as "a successful aviator, aircraft maintenance engineer, philanthropist, and the youngest APC governorship aspirant in Kwara state.”

In his address, Adangba said the young aviator and aircraft maintenance engineer has distinguished himself as one of the leading governorship aspirants in Kwara state, highlighting his contributions to education, youth empowerment, and community development initiatives, as well as social welfare initiatives through his CAM foundation, a non-profit organisation established to support individuals, lift vulnerable communities, and inspire the next generation of Kwara youth.

“When we talked about youth involvement in politics and governance in Kwara state, we must commend our amiable governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, for giving young people and women folks the opportunity to serve in his government. He is not only giving the stage for young people to serve, but he is also mentoring the youth for a brighter future. And that is why we are advocating for a youthful candidacy, competence, exposure, and grassroots connection to be considered in the choice of the APC governorship candidate in Kwara state,” Adangba stated.

In his further address, Adangba said the Captain Ahmad Mahmoud foundation has provided “hundreds of scholarships and financial assistance to both secondary school and tertiary institutions students across the sixteen (16) local government areas of Kwara State.”

He added that the foundation’s support also includes the distribution of teaching and learning materials to the schools of special needs across the state, as part of the non-profit organisation's effort to ensure “every child counts and enhance seamless classroom learning for our younger generation.”

Beyond education and youth empowerment programmes, Adangba said the CAM foundation has organised several skill-acquisition and empowerment training programmes in Kwara Central, providing start-up support for small businesses and creating opportunities for unemployed youths with practical skills.

He also stressed that the foundation's community development and social welfare initiatives capture “medical assistance and financial aid for widows, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups across the three districts of Kwara state.”

He, meanwhile, praised Captain Ahmad Mahmoud for using his professional offices to support his home state when it mattered, saying that, as the director of operations at United Airlines, the renowned aviator facilitated the first-ever commencement of United Airlines' operations in Kwara state.

In his closing remarks, the convener of the Kwara Youth Advocate expressed optimism that Captain Ahmad Mahmoud would bring the same spirit of service to the political arena if given the opportunity to fly the APC flag as the governorship candidate in the state at the forthcoming 2027 general elections.

They, however, rally the support of party leaders and members across the sixteen (16) local government areas of Kwara state to support Captain Ahmad’s candidacy at the much-awaited APC primaries in the state.

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