The Ideal News

  By Idris Alooma  As Emeritus  Prof. Ishaq Olanrewju Oloyede took the podium at the BON Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos , on Sunday, 25th January 2026, the anticipation was palpable. The gathering of media executives was eager to hear about the strides JAMB has made under his leadership. "The proof of the pudding is in the eating," and Prof. Oloyede's address did not disappoint. In his opening remarks, Prof. Oloyede expressed his sincere appreciation for the media's unwavering support, saying, "Your commitment to accurate, fair, and timely coverage has strengthened public understanding of our work." This statement echoed the African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." The purpose of the meeting was clear: to review JAMB's performance, highlight achievements, and chart a course for the future. Prof. Oloyede's vision for JAMB is to become a world-class examination body, providing credible and reliable serv...

   By Idris Alooma  "Necessity is the mother of invention," so goes the old adage. For Nigeria, the necessity is now. With a growing population, diverse challenges, and a wealth of untapped potential, the country is ripe for innovation. As Nigerian author, Chinua Achebe, once said, "The world is like a mask, dancing. If you want to see it well, you do not stand in one place." It's time for Nigerians to move, innovate, and create. Nigeria has the potential to join the league of nations like America, China, Japan, and others that have transformed their economies through innovation. The country is blessed with a youthful population, abundant natural resources, and a resilient entrepreneurial spirit. However, the over-reliance on oil has hindered the country's progress. It's time to look beyond fuel and focus on invention and innovation. The story of innovation is not just about adopting existing technologies; it's about pushing the boundaries of human k...

By Idris Alooma As Comrade Issa Aremu , Director General of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies , celebrated his 65th birthday on January 8, 2026 , he reflected on a life dedicated to labour rights , social justice , and nation-building . In an exclusive interview with Idris Alooma in Ilorin , Aremu expressed his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 's reforms, urging Nigerians to reelect him in 2027 to build on the solid foundation laid. Aremu, a seasoned labour leader with over 40 years of experience, highlighted Tinubu's achievements, including the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), minimum wage , fuel non-scarcity, tax reform, and reduction in food prices. He emphasized that these gains should be consolidated by reelecting the President, saying "you don't change a winning team." Aremu's credentials are impressive: former President of Textile Workers Union, Vice President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and executive...

  By Our Reporter The Yoruba Obas have been advised to put aside their differences and unite for the progress of the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole.  The National President of Oodua Progressive Care Initiative (OPCI), Dr. Maruf Olarewaju Salam, emphasized the need for unity among traditional leaders while answering questions from journalists in Ilorin the Kwara state capital citing the current state of the nation. Dr. Salam stressed that the Ooni of Ife , Oba Adeyeye Eniitan Ogunwusi , the Alaafin of Oyo , Oba Abimbola Owoade , and other Obas must work together to support the reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's government , including economic, security, and tax reforms . He noted that the success of these reforms requires the support of traditional leaders. The OPCI president also advocated for empowering regional governments and establishing state police to enhance security and development, citing the need to address banditry and terrorism in Ni...

  The Executive Committee of the University of Ilorin (Unilorin) Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists ( NUJ ) has extended warm New Year greetings to its members, reaffirming its commitment to serving them with greater zeal and fervor in 2026. In a statement signed by Hon. Adewoyin Tijani A , Chairman of the Unilorin Chapel of NUJ, the Executive Committee, reflected on the accomplishments of the past year, crediting the unwavering commitment and dedication of its members for driving growth and success. The statement reads: "As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, we are reminded of the unwavering commitment and dedication of our members, which has been the driving force behind the growth and success of our beloved Unilorin Chapel of NUJ." The Executive Committee emphasized the importance of synergy between itself and members, soliciting continued support, encouragement, and active participation in its endeavors. "We recognize that the synergy betwee...