Oriontimes

  An aspirant for the House of Representatives to represent the Osogbo, Olorunda, Orolu and Irepodun Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections , Engr. Akogun Raji Abioye , on Sunday distributed food bank packages to about 1,200 residents across the constituency as part of a Ramadan support initiative. The distribution took place during a special Ramadan programme held at the Erin-Osun Hall in Erin-Osun, bringing together party leaders, community members and residents from different parts of the federal constituency. Speaking during the event, the Mufasir of Erin-Osun, Alhaji Hussein Aberuagba, delivered a sermon drawn from the Holy Qur’an , emphasizing the responsibilities of leaders toward their followers. He highlighted the importance of compassion, accountability and service to the people, noting that leadership should always reflect care for the welfare of the community. Addressing participants at the gathering, Abioye expressed appreciation to leaders and members of...

  An Osun State -based retired teacher, Madam Celinah Alaba Adedapo , has passed away. Madam Adedapo died on Thursday, March 12, 2026, peacefully in Osogbo, the Osun State capital. She was 76 years old. Born in March and died in March, Mama passed away 17 days to her 77th birthday anniversary. A statement by the deceased's son, Olumuyiwa Adenrele Adedapo , said: "The Adedapo and Oluwole families announce with deep sorrow but with gratitude to God for a life well spent, the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and matriarch, Madam Celinah Alaba Adedapo nee Oluwole, who died on Thursday, March 12, 2026.  According to Olumuyiwa, Mama was born on March 29, 1949, in Ijesa-Isu , Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State .  Olumuyiwa, who noted that Mama Adedapo lived a life defined by service, faith, and dedication to the growth of others, said: "As a retired educationist, Mama devoted many years to nurturing young minds and contributing to the development of education ...

 Oriontimes International| Brufut, The Gambia  Emerging Gambian writer Abdou Komma has been selected to represent The Gambia at the upcoming Molepolole International Book Festival in Botswana, marking a significant milestone in his literary journey. In a statement released and made available to Oriontimes, Komma expressed deep appreciation for the recognition, describing the opportunity as both humbling and inspiring. “I am deeply honored and grateful to be featured in this international literary space by the Molepolole International Book Festival,” he said. The young author noted that the recognition represents not only a personal achievement but also a proud moment for his community in Bassending , where his passion for storytelling first began. “As a young Gambian author, this recognition means a lot to me and to the journey of storytelling that began in my humble community of Bassending,” he stated. Komma also extended appreciation to the festival organizers for creating...

  Vows to switch off phone if Arsenal F.C. lift the Premier League trophy Opinion | Oriontimes News Editorial Board Former Chelsea F.C. star John Obi Mikel has once again stirred football fans, joking that he would switch off his phone if Arsenal F.C. lift the Premier League through corner-kick goals.  While said in jest, the comment revives memories of one of the fiercest London derbies of the 2000s: the explosive 2007 Football League Cup Final . Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby accidentally struck Chelsea captain John Terry in the face with a high boot while attempting to clear the ball. The incident sparked a chaotic brawl on the pitch. John Obi Mikel was at the center of the melee and was the only player shown a red card as tempers boiled over. While several Arsenal players were involved in pushing and shoving, no Arsenal player received a dismissal. Nearly two decades later, Mikel’s remark shows that some rivalries never fully fade. During Chelsea’s peak years, he shared...

  By Boluwatife Adedokun Long after most homes in Osogbo have gone quiet for the night, the sound of sewing machines once filled a small workspace where Mrs. Aduragbemi Babayemi worked tirelessly, stitching baby beds until the early hours of the morning. There were nights she worked alone until 2 a.m, determined to complete orders even when she had no workers, little equipment, and barely enough capital to sustain the business she had just started. Five years later, the 29-year-old entrepreneur now runs a growing baby product business supplying baby beds and related items to markets within and outside Osun State . “I started with just one manual machine,” Babayemi recalled during an interview. “I didn’t have money to buy all the equipment needed for the work. But as I continued working and selling, I gradually used the money I made to buy other machines.” Today, her workshop produces baby beds, baby load bags and other infant care items under the name Aduragbemi Baby Design . A...

  British authorities have announced road closures and temporary airspace restrictions in Windsor ahead of the state visit of Bola Tinubu , scheduled to begin next week. Officials in the United Kingdom said the measures are part of heightened security preparations for the Nigerian leader’s arrival, with several key routes expected to be temporarily shut to allow secure movement of the presidential convoy . In addition to road restrictions, aviation authorities confirmed that limited airspace controls would be enforced around Windsor during certain periods of the visit. The restrictions are intended to ensure safety and prevent unauthorized aircraft from operating in sensitive areas while the high-profile engagements take place. Security agencies noted that such measures are standard protocol during visits by foreign heads of state and senior dignitaries. President Tinubu’s trip to the United Kingdom is expected to include a series of diplomatic meetings and engagements, though ...

  More than 1,300 people have reportedly been killed and millions displaced across Iran as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to intensify, triggering a growing humanitarian crisis . Reports from international agencies indicate that the escalating hostilities involving Iran, the United States , and Israel have led to widespread destruction, forcing civilians to flee their homes in large numbers. According to humanitarian sources, over three million people have been displaced internally as residents abandon major cities and conflict-prone areas in search of safety. The crisis has overwhelmed emergency services and humanitarian organizations working to assist affected populations. Medical authorities say thousands of others have been injured, placing enormous pressure on hospitals and healthcare facilities already struggling with shortages of medical supplies and personnel. The conflict, which escalated after a series of military strikes and retaliatory missile an...

  Oriontimes News Desk | March 13, 2026 Air defense systems in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates intercepted and destroyed 45 ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran on Thursday, according to official statements released by authorities in both Gulf nations. The projectiles were detected by early-warning radar systems before they reached their intended targets, prompting swift defensive action from military forces in both countries. Air defense units were able to neutralize the missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles mid-air, preventing potential damage to strategic locations. Officials said the coordinated response highlights the growing military cooperation and readiness among Gulf states amid rising tensions in the region. The interception also underscores the capabilities of advanced missile defense systems deployed across the Gulf to counter ballistic missile and drone threats. Regional security analysts note that the latest incident reflects the escalating ...

 The Ndigbo community across the local government areas of Osun State has declared its support for the second-term bid of Governor Ademola Adeleke ahead of the 2026 governorship election , citing his administration’s developmental strides across the state. The endorsement was made during a courtesy visit by leaders of the Igbo community in Osun to the governor at the Government House in Osogbo , where they commended his leadership and commitment to inclusive governance. Speaking on behalf of the association, President-General of the Ndigbo in the state, Chief John Dike , praised the governor for the infrastructural and social development projects being carried out across the state. He particularly commended the governor for appointing some members of the Igbo community as Senior Special Assistants , describing the gesture as a sign of recognition and inclusion of the community in the affairs of the state. Chief Dike, however, appealed for further inclusiveness, requesting that m...

 U.S President, Donald Trump , has disclosed that the ongoing military confrontation involving the United States has already cost about $11.6 billion within the first six days of operations. Trump made the revelation while addressing concerns over the financial implications of the conflict, noting that the enormous expenditure reflects the scale and intensity of modern warfare . According to him, the costs cover a wide range of military activities including deployment of troops, advanced weapon systems , intelligence operations, logistics and the movement of naval and air assets across strategic regions. The U.S. leader acknowledged that wars in the modern era come with significant economic burdens, stressing that the financial commitment required to sustain military operations can quickly escalate within a short period. Analysts say the figure highlights the immense cost of large-scale military engagements, particularly when sophisticated technologies, long-range missiles, surveil...

  The President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), Gianni Infantino , has revealed that former United States President Donald Trump indicated that Iran would be allowed to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup despite ongoing political tensions . Infantino disclosed this following discussions with Trump regarding preparations for the global football tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico . According to the FIFA president, Trump assured that the Iranian national team would be welcome to compete in the tournament, emphasizing that football should remain a platform that unites nations even amid geopolitical disagreements. The statement comes amid uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation after the country’s Sports Minister earlier suggested that the nation might not take part in the tournament due to rising tensions with the United States and its allies. Iran had already secured qualification fo...

Oriontimes Political Desk | 12th March, 2026 The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the cannibalisation and subsequent looting of some of the water schemes across the state by the hoodlums suspected to be relying on the backing of the state government . Information revealed that a certain group of hoodlums have formed themselves into a formidable team who have been invading the water schemes constructed in the various communities in the state, forcefully removing some of the equipment on the sites. It was gathered that the criminal activities of these hoodlums who have been dropping  the name of the state government to perpetrate their heinous and anti-social activities had often resulted into exchange of fisticuffs with the people of the communities where they intended to loot their water scheme to the chagrin of the right-thinking members of the society. Further investigation showed that these vandals going about the communities in the state...

  By Abioye Tosin Lawrence, Publisher, Oriontimes Online Newspaper Despite being one of Africa’s leading oil-producing countries, citizens of Nigeria continue to grapple with rising fuel prices , a development many analysts describe as a troubling paradox. While Nigerians face increasing costs at the pump driven by global oil market volatility and exchange rate pressures, several West African countries maintain relatively stable, government-regulated fuel prices . In many Francophone nations across the region, fuel pump prices remain largely fixed, with governments playing a central role in regulating the cost to protect consumers from sudden international price shocks. Most Francophone Countries have continued to maintain relatively stable pricing structures despite ongoing tensions in the global oil market. Investigations by Oriontimes reveal that the stability in pump prices across some of these countries is largely tied to government policy and centralized regulation of petr...

 Iran has announced that it will not participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup , citing ongoing tensions and conflict with the United States. The announcement was made by Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali , during an appearance on state television on Wednesday. According to the minister, the current geopolitical situation has made it difficult for the country to take part in the global football tournament, which is scheduled to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico . Donyamali explained that the government must prioritize national security and the safety of its athletes, noting that the ongoing hostilities have created an environment that makes participation impractical. The FIFA World Cup, the biggest tournament in international football, will feature an expanded 48-team format in 2026. Iran had been expected to compete among the qualified nations, making the announcement a significant development for the tournament. It remains unclear whether FIFA will seek a re...

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen was visibly emotional after fans of Galatasaray S.K. unveiled a touching tifo in honour of his late mother during a recent match. The Super Eagles forward could not hold back tears as supporters displayed the tribute, celebrating his journey and remembering the mother he lost at a young age. The emotional moment dre w loud applause from the stadium as fans showed solidarity with the Nigerian star, reinforcing the strong bond that has developed between Osimhen and the club’s supporters. Reacting to the gesture, Osimhen expressed deep appreciation to the fans, describing the moment as unforgettable. “We are a family and family is everything,” he said, acknowledging the love and support he has received since joining the Turkish giants. The tribute has since gone viral on social media, with many football fans praising Galatasaray supporters for the heartfelt gesture toward the Nigerian international.

 Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan , has alleged that she was excluded from Nigeria’s official delegation to the 2026 session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) scheduled to hold in New York . In a statement issued by her media office, the lawmaker said she was left out of the delegation despite earlier indications that she was being considered for participation in the international conference. According to the statement, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concern over the development, noting that the event is a critical global platform for advancing gender equality , women’s empowerment , and policy dialogue on issues affecting women worldwide. The annual session of the CSW, organised by the United Nations, brings together government officials, civil society leaders, activists, and policymakers from different countries to discuss strategies for promoting the rights and welfare of women. The Kogi lawmaker did not provide further d...

  The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State has announced that political campaigns for the 2026 governorship election will officially commence on Wednesday, March 11, 2026. In a press statement issued on Monday by the Commission’s Public Affairs Officer in the state, Musa Olurode , INEC reminded political parties, candidates and their supporters that the campaign period is in line with the timetable and schedule of activities released for the forthcoming election. The Commission urged political actors to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 as well as INEC’s regulations and guidelines governing political parties . INEC particularly warned political parties against engaging in abusive language, hate speech, violence or any act capable of disrupting public peace during the campaign period. The Commission also encouraged parties and candidates to focus on issue-based campaigns that will ...

 The President of the United States, Donald Trump , has called on Australia to grant asylum to members of Iran women's national football team following reports that the players protested their country’s national anthem . Trump made the appeal after speaking with the Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese , raising concerns that the athletes could face danger if they return to Iran. The U.S. president disclosed the development on his social media platform, Truth Social , on Monday, noting that he had already contacted the Australian leader regarding the matter. According to Trump, the Iranian women’s team reportedly declined to sing their national anthem during an international event, a move widely interpreted as a form of protest against conditions in their home country. He warned that such acts of dissent could expose the players to possible reprisals upon their return, urging Australia to consider offering them protection through asylum. “I spoke with the Australian Prime...

The Osun Amotekun Corps has successfully apprehended two suspected highway robbers during a routine patrol operation along the Ilesa–Ibadan Expressway in Osun State. The suspects, identified as Chimar Eze (29) and Sunday Okori (41), both natives of Ebonyi State and residents of Mowe in Ogun State, were arrested on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at approximately 11:35PM. while attempting to rob a vehicle transporting goods from Ibadan. According to preliminary reports, the suspects and their accomplices had set up a trap along the highway in an attempt to intercept the commercial vehicle. However, the driver of the vehicle managed to escape from the ambush and immediately alerted nearby operatives of the Osun Amotekun Corps who were on routine patrol in the area. Acting swiftly on the information received, the Amotekun operatives mobilized to the scene. Upon sighting the security personnel, the suspects attempted to flee into the surrounding bush abandoned the already robbed vehicle. The oper...

Oriontimes News Desk| March 9, 2026    In a bold call to action ahead of International Women's Day on the 8th of March, Peggy Grueninger , renowned executive coach and intercultural strategist for multinational companies, declares: "Inclusion is not a human resource checkbox, it's the CEO's growth engine ." Grueninger's new insights challenge leaders to reframe diversity not as compliance, but as a proven driver of innovation, revenue, and resilience. Too often, executives delegate diversity to HR teams, missing its strategic power. "Diversity without inclusion is a diverse team that's still playing small," says Grueninger, who has guided C-suite leaders at Fortune 500 firms to unlock 20-30% gains in performance through inclusive cultures. Research backs this - McKinsey reports companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on executive teams are 25% more likely to outperform peers. Yet, 70% of CEOs admit they undervalue inclusion's RO...

  The Iranian government has expressed its readiness to support Nigeria in its ongoing fight against terrorism , according to Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja . The envoy made the remark during an interview on Arise Television , where he highlighted Iran’s willingness to cooperate with Nigeria in tackling security challenges. Mahdavi Raja noted that Iran condemns terrorism in all its forms and is open to sharing its experience in counter-terrorism efforts with Nigeria. He acknowledged that Nigeria has been battling insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province , which have continued to threaten peace and stability in parts of the country. According to the ambassador, Iran understands the consequences of terrorism, having also faced similar threats within its own region. He further clarified that Islamic groups operating in Nigeria maintain only spiritual and cultural connections with Iran, stressing that such relationships are not...