The Proxima News

 Tribute to a Scholar: Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi Mourns Prof. Lanre Badmas Yusuf Dr Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Kwara State , and immediate past National President of Igbaja Progressive Union has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned Islamic scholar , Professor Yusuf Olanrewaju (Lanre) Badmus . Dr Alabi, a renowned business mogul and Chief Executive Officer Integrated Catering Company , brand owner of Promise Fast Food , described the death of the erudite scholar, which occurred on Friday, January 30, 2026, after a brief illness, as a painful and irreparable loss to the Islamic Ummah , the academic community, and society at large. According to him, the late Professor Badmus was a towering intellectual whose life was wholly devoted to Islamic scholarship, moral instruction, and the mentoring of generations through knowledge, discipline, and upright conduct. “Professor Badmus was not only a respected theologian but also...

 Egbewole expresses shock over Prof. Yusuf's death The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin , Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has expressed shock and profound sadness on the death of Prof. Badmas Olanrewaju Yusuf . The renowned Islamic scholar and Director, Linguistic Immersion Centre , University of Ilorin, who joined the services of the University in 1992, died last Friday (January 30, 2026) after a brief illness at the age of 69. In a statement signed by the University's Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Kunle Akogun, Prof. Egbewole said that the management, staff and students of the University are saddened by the demise of Prof. Yusuf. He described the deceased as a hardworking and exemplary academic and administrator who made his marks in the services of the University, Islam and humanity at large. Prof. Egbewole sympathised with the relations, friends, colleagues, students and mentees of the renowned scholar as he urged them to take solace in the fact that he li...

 Dr  Alabi Calls for Kwara Master Plan to Sustain AbdulRazaq’s Legacies  A philanthropist and a business and community leader, Dr. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi, has called for the development of a comprehensive master plan for Kwara State to guide successive administrations and sustain the legacies of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Dr. Alabi, the immediate past National President of the Igbaja Progressive Union National Executive Council (IPUNEC) and Chief Executive Officer, Integrated Catering Company Limited, owners of The Promise Fast Food brand, made the call during a tour of media houses in Ilorin. He said the absence of a clearly documented master plan for the state prompted him to initiate a process, stressing that continuity in governance is critical for sustainable development. “While thinking about the future of Kwara State after Governor AbdulRazaq, I searched for a state master plan but could not find one. " That informed my decision to set up a 44-member panel...

 OPINION:Transforming JAMB:Prof.Oloyede's Roadmap to World-Class Excellence 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...

 AATU's Ascent: Pioneering Tech-Driven Excellence and Self-Reliant Graduates in Nigeria's Heartland - VC     By Idris Alooma In a groundbreaking interview with UNILORIN FM radio station,  Professor Abdulrauf Ambali, Vice Chancellor of Abdulrasaq Abubakar Toyin University (AATU), unveiled the institution's ambitious vision to revolutionize higher education in Nigeria. With a mantra of "technology-driven excellence," AATU is poised to redefine the academic landscape in Kwara State and beyond. Located in Ganmo, Kwara State, AATU is a member of the KU8+ consortium, under the mentorship of the University of Ilorin. This affiliation underscores AATU's commitment to academic excellence and innovation, leveraging the expertise of seasoned institutions to forge its path. Prof. Ambali, a seasoned political scientist and former Dean of Student Affairs at Kwara State University, Malete, brings a wealth of experience to his role. His vision for AATU is two-fold: to become ...

 They Want Nigeria to Break Up — Ex-CDS Raises Ålarm Over Insecurity Nigeria’s former Chief of Defence Staff , Admiral Ola Ibrahim (retd.), has warned that powerful forces are still working to destabilise the country and push it toward disintegration. The former Defence Chief said insecurity in Nigeria is no accident. According to him, the nation’s resources, weak borders, and deep internal divisions have made it a target for both external and internal threats.  The Proxima News reports that Admiral Ola Ibrahim raised the alarm while speaking at the reunion of the 42nd Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy in Abuja . Ibrahim said Nigeria’s size and economic potential continue to attract people who want to benefit from the country without contributing to its growth. He explained that many Nigerians may not feel the nation is prosperous, but outsiders see it as a land of opportunity to exploit. He said, “One of our sins is that Nigeria is prosperous. You know what ...

They Want Nigeria to Break Up — Ex-CDS Raises Ålarm Over Insecurity Nigeria’s former Chief of Defence Staff , Admiral Ola Ibrahim (retd.), has warned that powerful forces are still working to destabilise the country and push it toward disintegration. The former Defence Chief said insecurity in Nigeria is no accident. According to him, the nation’s resources, weak borders, and deep internal divisions have made it a target for both external and internal threats. Politics Nigeria reports that Admiral Ola Ibrahim raised the alarm while speaking at the reunion of the 42nd Regular Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy in Abuja . Ibrahim said Nigeria’s size and economic potential continue to attract people who want to benefit from the country without contributing to its growth. He explained that many Nigerians may not feel the nation is prosperous, but outsiders see it as a land of opportunity to exploit. He said, “One of our sins is that Nigeria is prosperous. You know what prosperity d...

  SWOT TEAM Organised Bookworm   Challenge in Honour of Prof. AbdulBaqi   By  Idris Alooma  The SWOT Team, a foremost organisation dedicated to educational development in Nigeria and Africa , has organised a Bookworm Challenge in honour of a renowned scholar and administrator, Professor Saudat Salah-AbdulBaqi , as part of efforts to revive reading culture among students and promote effective communication skills . Speaking at the event, Kwara State Governor , Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq , said the Bookworm Challenge restated his administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring that graduates of both primary and post-primary schools in the state are world-class and adequately prepared to compete globally. According to him, the initiative aligns perfectly with the educational reform agenda of his government, which prioritises quality learning, literacy development and capacity building for young people. The Governor, who was represented by his Senior...

 A Legacy of Peace:Dr Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi condoles the family of late Ilorin Chief Imam In a poignant display of respect and solidarity, Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi , a renowned philanthropist and community leader, paid a heartfelt condolence visit to the family of the late Sheikh Muhammad Bashir Muhammad Solihu, the Grand Chief Imam of Ilorin . The Sheikh's passing has sent shockwaves of sorrow across Kwara State and beyond, leaving a void that will be deeply felt. Dr. Alabi described the late Grand Chief Imam as a beacon of spiritual guidance, moral uprightness, and peaceful coexistence, whose leadership was anchored on wisdom, humility, and compassion. He recalled the Sheikh's lifelong dedication to the service of Islam and humanity, and his unwavering commitment to fostering harmony and stability within Ilorin and its environs. The late Sheikh was not only a revered Islamic cleric but a unifying figure, whose counsel was sought across social and religious divides. His vo...

  Ilorin Chief Imam : CMO hails Gov AbdulRazaq for swift medical intervention  The Council of Muslim Organizations (CMO) in Kwara State has applauded Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his swift medical intervention and concern for the late Chief Imam of Ilorin , Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solihu , prior to his transition. The council noted that the Governor's gesture reflects his compassion, leadership, and respect for religious institutions and their leaders. The state Coordinator of CMO, Justice Idris Abdullahi Haroon, said this in a statement he personally signed and made available to Journalists in Ilorin on Friday. This medium reports that the Chief Imam of Ilorin died on Monday at the age of 75 while his remains were interred in line with Islamic injunctions on Tuesday. The council commiserated with the Governor over the demise of the revered Islamic scholar. It similarly sympathized with the Emir of Ilorin , Dr Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari , on the loss of a trusted con...

  Ilorin Chief Imam 's legacy Will endure, says Veteran Journalist, Moji Makanjuola   A Veteran Journalist, Chief (Mrs) Moji Makanjuola, has mourned the passing of the Chief Imam of Ilorin , Shaykh Muhammad Bashir Imam Solihu , describing his exit as painful. She said the legacy of the late Islamic scholar of the Ilorin Emirate would endure, taking cognizance of his impactful contributions to spiritual growth and Islamic scholarship. In a statement she personally signed and made available to Journalists in Ilorin , Chief Moji Makanjuola explained that Ilorin and its environs had lost one of its iconic figures, particularly at a time that his ocean of experience and spiritual guidance were needed to navigate disturbing situations in our public life. The Veteran Journalist recalled that the preachings of the late Chief Imam resonated with many citizens on how to maintain peaceful co-existence across communities. She said the deceased would be sorely missed in all ramifications....

 Arts of Heart: Dr. Toyin Tajudeen Alabi Empowers Unilorites Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi demonstrated his enduring commitment to education and human development during the stage presentation of Wedlock of the Gods by students of the Department of English and Literary Studies , University of Ilorin . At the event, Dr. Alabi awarded a scholarship to Afolabi Precious Olamide and presented her with a cash gift of ₦100,000 to assist with the payment of her hostel accommodation fee, following her outstanding performance and personal financial challenges. In addition, another student, Sunday Esther Obongnwa , who distinguished herself through her motherly role interpretation and natural acting prowess in the drama was also rewarded with a cash prize of ₦100,000, in recognition of her exceptional talent and emotional depth on stage. Speaking at the event, Dr. Alabi emphasized that the Arts remain an essential part of human existence, noting that creative expressions such as drama, literature,...

 Giant Stride: Dr. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi Unveils Plans to Empower Kwarans through Education and Philanthropy Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Oluwatoyin Tajudeen Alabi, has disclosed ambitious plans to replicate his business success and deepen social impact in Kwara State . Speaking recently during a visit to the University of Ilorin FM radio station , Dr. Alabi revealed that his commitment to giving began early in his career when his salary was just ₦1,400. Dr. Alabi, the founder of The Promise Fast Food , a leading hospitality brand in Nigeria’s South-South region and a major service provider in the Oil and Gas sector said he intends to bring the brand’s excellence to Kwara. He plans to partner with the University of Ilorin to establish a Promise Fast Food outlet on campus to provide quality and affordable meals to students. “Students actually need this, and at The Promise, we do nothing but good food,” he stated. Expressing deep love for Kwara State, Dr. Al...

 Oke-Ode monarch commiserates with Emir of Ilorin over Chief Imam’s death The Elesa of Oke-Ode, HRH Oba Mufutau Akanbi Adebayo Ibrahim, Ilufemiloye I, has commiserated with the Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRH Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, on the death of the Chief Imam of Ilorin, Shaykh (Dr) Muhammad Bashir Saliu. Oba Mufutau Ibrahim, who described the death of the erudite cleric as shocking and devastating, also expressed the condolences of the entire Oke-Ode people to the people of Ilorin Emirate over the loss of their beloved grand Imam.   The late Chief  Imam of  of Ilorin,Imam Mohammad Bahir Solihu In a statement issued by the Akogun of Oke-Ode and Secretary to the Elesa-in-Council, Chief Kunle Akogun, the Oke-Ode monarch pointed out that the death of the Ilorin Chief Imam was a huge loss not only to the people of Ilorin but also to the entire Muslim Ummah in Kwara State and even beyond. While urging the Emir...

  KWASU Professor Advocates for Polygynous Family Rights in Nigeria P rofessor Najeem Adeyemi Ijaiya , a Comparative Law expert at Kwara State University (KWASU), has called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria's legal framework to address the systemic discrimination against polygynous families . Delivering the 2nd Valedictory Lecture of the Department of Islamic Law on January 21, 2026, Titled " Law as an Instrument of Social Change : Any Hope for Polygyny?"  Ijaiya argued that the law should recognize and protect polygynous marriages under Islamic and customary laws .     The event  which was chaired by KWASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Alade Jimoh , Prof Ijaiya emphasized that Nigeria's plural legal system unfairly prioritizes monogamous marriages , marginalizing those conducted under Islamic and customary laws. "The law should not impose a one-size-fits-all model of marriage on a culturally diverse people ," he said. The lecture was a...

  KWASU Professor Advocates for Polygynous Family Rights in Nigeria Professor Najeem Adeyemi Ijaiya , a Comparative Law expert at Kwara State University (KWASU), has called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria's legal framework to address the systemic discrimination against polygynous families . Delivering the 2nd Valedictory Lecture of the Department of Islamic Law on January 21, 2026, Titled " Law as an Instrument of Social Change : Any Hope for Polygyny ?"  Ijaiya argued that the law should recognize and protect polygynous marriages under Islamic and customary laws .     The event  which was chaired by KWASU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shaykh-Luqman Alade Jimoh , Prof Ijaiya emphasized that Nigeria's plural legal system unfairly prioritizes monogamous marriages , marginalizing those conducted under Islamic and customary laws. "The law should not impose a one-size-fits-all model of marriage on a culturally diverse people ," he said. The lecture was...