How Ogun State’s premier railway station celebrates Nigeria’s Nobel laureate while driving national connectivity.
Location: Laderin, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria
The Professor Wole Soyinka Train Station in Abeokuta, Ogun State, stands as both a tribute to Nigeria’s literary genius and a symbol of the country’s advancing transport infrastructure. Named in honour of Professor Wole Soyinka, Africa’s first Nobel laureate in Literature, the station merges modern engineering with cultural recognition, representing progress in both physical and intellectual journeys across Nigeria.
A Symbol of Honour and National Pride
Commissioned as part of the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway Line, the Professor Wole Soyinka Train Station forms one of the most significant railway developments in Nigeria’s modern history. The naming of the station after Professor Akinwande Oluwole Babatunde Soyinka, a native of Ogun State, was a deliberate decision to celebrate excellence, scholarship, and integrity — values Soyinka has embodied throughout his global literary career.
The gesture immortalises his contributions not only to literature and theatre but also to national activism and education. It reflects the Nigerian government’s broader commitment to recognising individuals who have brought prestige to the nation.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
Located in the Laderin area of Abeokuta, the station serves as a central link between Lagos, Ibadan, and other major cities in Nigeria’s southwest. Its strategic position in Ogun State — a region long associated with education, industry, and innovation — makes it a vital hub for commuters, business travellers, and tourists alike.
The station is part of the Lagos–Ibadan Standard Gauge Railway, which was officially completed and opened for full commercial operations in 2021. The 156-kilometre line is one of the flagship projects under Nigeria’s national railway modernisation initiative, designed to improve mobility, reduce travel time, and stimulate economic growth across regions.
The Professor Wole Soyinka Train Station reflects the elegance of modern Nigerian architecture. Its clean lines, open spaces, and accessible design convey efficiency and comfort. The station features:
Spacious waiting lounges equipped with digital ticketing systems
Air-conditioned halls and modern restrooms
Electronic information boards and security screening units
Parking facilities for private vehicles and commercial taxis
Accessibility features for passengers with disabilities
The infrastructure is designed to accommodate hundreds of passengers daily, ensuring smooth operations and comfort for travellers along the Lagos–Abeokuta–Ibadan route.
Economic and Social Impact
The establishment of the Lagos–Ibadan rail line, and by extension the Wole Soyinka Station, has significantly boosted socio-economic activities across southwestern Nigeria. Businesses now benefit from faster and safer transport of goods, while residents enjoy affordable, efficient mobility between key cities.
For Ogun State, the presence of the station enhances tourism and commerce. Visitors from across Nigeria and abroad can easily access Abeokuta’s cultural and historical landmarks — including the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Olumo Rock, and the Alake’s Palace — turning the city into a vibrant destination for learning and leisure.
A Fitting Tribute to a Global Icon
Naming the station after Professor Wole Soyinka holds deep symbolic significance. Born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Soyinka has consistently used his literary voice to advocate for freedom, justice, and human dignity. His Nobel Prize in Literature, awarded in 1986, placed Nigeria and Africa on the global cultural map.
The train station thus becomes more than just a physical structure — it is a metaphor for Soyinka’s lifelong journey of enlightenment and progress. Just as trains connect cities and people, Soyinka’s words have bridged generations, ideologies, and cultures.
Looking Ahead: Connecting the Nation through Infrastructure and Inspiration
As Nigeria continues to expand its railway network, the Professor Wole Soyinka Train Station stands as a benchmark for excellence in infrastructure and heritage recognition. It is a reminder that progress is not only measured by steel and speed but also by the values and icons that inspire a nation’s collective journey.
For travellers arriving in Abeokuta, the station offers not just a gateway to the city — but also an invitation to reflect on the power of knowledge, creativity, and national identity embodied by one of Nigeria’s most distinguished sons.
References:
Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) Official Releases (2021–2022)
The Guardian Nigeria: “Lagos–Ibadan Railway and the Modernisation of Nigeria’s Transport” (2021)
Vanguard Nigeria: “Why Wole Soyinka’s Name Matters in Ogun’s Rail Legacy” (2022)
BBC News Africa Archives on Wole Soyinka (1986–2021)
The new Abeokuta train Station. Named after Wole Soyinka. The station is located at Ori Osoko Community at the outskirt of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Celebrity fashion designer Victoria James, popularly known as Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, have announced the arrival of their first child, Eliana.
Veekee James announced this in an Instagram post on Wednesday, revealing that the baby girl was born on May 2, 2026.
She wrote, “She’s Here. #elianaatere. 02-May-26. Eliana Adeife Atere.”
Veekee James, Femi Atere welcome their first daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_jamesVeekee James with her daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_james
The designer further explained the meaning behind her child’s first name, saying, “EL (God) and ANA (He has answered), signifying ‘My God has answered.
“1 Samuel 1:27 – ‘For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.’”
Commenting on Veekee James announcement, Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu wrote, “Congratulations, my darling, we give God all glory, she is beautiful.”
Social media influencer Tomike Adeoye wrote, “Thank you, Lord, for our beautiful Testimony!!! Congratulations, Mama ati Papa Eliana.”
Veekee James, Femi Atere welcome their first daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_james
“Congratulations, Oremii, we are so happy! Enitojokosibiikokoogaogo is here! Oluwasheun! Veekee, strong woman!” Skit maker Folagade Banks commented.
Actress Osas Ighodaro wrote, “God is so good! Congratulations, my darling!! AND SHE IS ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL, sooooo pretty!”
“What the Lord has done for you is marvellous, and His Joy will never depart from you. Congratulations, Veekee,” content creator and actress Kie Kie added.
Veekee James’ husband, Femi Atere, and their daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_james
PUNCH reported that the couple had earlier announced the pregnancy on February 3, similarly sparking widespread reaction from celebrities and fans who congratulated them.
See more photos below:
Veekee James, Femi Atere welcome their first daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_jamesVeekee James, Femi Atere welcome their first daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_jamesVeekee James’ husband, Femi Atere, and their daughter, Eliana. Credit: Instagram| veekee_james
Fans and followers of late Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo across social media platforms have expressed sadness over his demise, describing the incident as shocking and heartbreaking.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning since Tuesday when news of the actor’s passing surfaced online.
Social media posts by his close colleagues, and trending media reports, stated that he died after a prolonged battle with cancer.
The incident has continued to generate frenzy on social media platforms, with fans across Nigeria and beyond pouring in condolence messages and tributes to the late thespian.
A fan, @Mr. Rekindled of AFC, asked: “Is this some late April Fool joke. God, what kind of news is this? Rest in peace bro I don’t even know what to type”.
@perpetua Ebubech wrote: “Rest well Alex I am done pressurising myself and being ungrateful. Being alive is enough. Aaaaaah Alex”.
@Amed Oshiorenua commented: “This one hurts me ooo”.
@sheismirah_bakr noted that: “Indeed, every soul shall taste death. May we leave behind kindness, love, and good memories May we be celebrated while we are alive, not only mourned when we are gone”.
@oheneba_nanayere_joyce wrote: “Ooo my God, have mercy on us”.
@SAMPSOLO on X wrote: “Omoh, sometimes when I hear such news I just sit down and think about life.
“Everything we’re struggling for can just end in one moment. It’s really scary”.
@nyarkowai23 said: “Aww fine boy. May his soul rest in peace”.
@_emefaaa wrote: “This is really sad, may his soul rest in peace”.
@ceeyahs_xclusivcollection commented: “Social media makes a lot of us look like we are living happily when we are actually fighting our battles. Remember we are all passing through something. Stay humble, stay kind”.
@DOG3tt said: “What’s wrong with Nollywood, why is everyone dying young?”
@bbelleamieeee wrote: “I loved him in Keeping My Man with Ramsey and Ini. Sad news… rest easy Alex”.
Ekubo’s passing has also attracted tributes from his colleagues and other celebrities, with many describing him as a talented actor and a kind-hearted friend.
Veteran actor Richard Mofe-Damijo wrote: “Life is not only fickle, it can also feel unreal. Even as I type this, I still struggle to fully process it, and it deeply saddens me to hear this news.
“Rest in peace to a truly great soul. You came, you saw, and you conquered. We are proud of the life you lived, the journey you embraced, and the legacy you leave behind.
“Sleep well, our dear Alex.”
Actor Bolanle Ninalowo also wrote: “Rest on, Alex. May God heal your family and us all.”
Singer Peter Okoye simply posted: “RIP”.
Actor Chinedu Ikedieze wrote: “Jesus, how?”
In a post on his X page, human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore described the late actor as a “rare talent”.
“My profound condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Nollywood star Alexx Ekubo, who I understand passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer.
“I never met him personally, but I still cannot forget a movie of his I watched on an Emirates flight from New York to Dubai en route to Nairobi.
“He was a rare talent whose presence lit up the screen effortlessly. May he rest in power.”
NAN reports that Alex Ekubo, born on April 10, 1986, was widely regarded as one of Nollywood’s most versatile actors, known for his performances in several hit films and television productions.
However, his prolonged absence from the public had raised concerns among fans and colleagues, as he stayed away from social media and public events for a long time.
His last post on Instagram was made in December 2024, shortly after reports emerged that his engagement to US-based model Fancy Acholonu had been called off.
Father of former Big Brother Naija All Stars winner, Ilebaye Odiniya, Emmanuel Odiniya, has broken his silence over the viral altercation involving his daughter, claiming he was provoked before allegedly assaulting her during a family confrontation.
In a voice note purportedly from Odiniya, and shared on Facebook on Sunday by Kogi-based journalist, Jeremiah Promise Enemona Ocheme, now circulating online, the father said the incident was not driven by hatred for his daughter but by frustration over what he described as her changed behaviour after winning the reality TV show.
“I want to put the records straight that what led to that incident was not that I don’t love my daughter. She is one of my best children,” he said.
He claimed he made sacrifices and mobilised support for her emergence as the winner of the BBNaija All Stars edition.
“During her time in the Big Brother Naija house, I contributed a lot. I stood by my daughter and made sure people voted for her massively. I used my influence and connections, including governors and other people, to support her until she won,” he stated.
According to him, their relationship allegedly deteriorated after her victory, accusing the reality star of becoming disrespectful and physically aggressive towards him.
“After she came out and won, she changed. Ilebaye stopped listening to me. I would book her appointments five to six times in a week and she wouldn’t give me audience. She stopped regarding me as her father,” he alleged.
The father further criticised her lifestyle, particularly her alleged cosmetic procedures.
“I warned her against getting cosmetic surgery — face reconstruction with fillers and BBL. She’s too young for that,” he said.
Emmanuel also alleged that his daughter had physically attacked him on previous occasions.
“She has hit me twice, and I didn’t do anything to her. One day she took an AC hanger and hit me with it till blood started gushing out of my body,” he claimed.
Speaking on the latest confrontation, he alleged that the reality TV star assaulted him first before the situation escalated.
“In this recent incident, she insulted me, hit me first with a sea hanger, causing bleeding, pushed me, and then broke an electric lantern on my head,” he said.
He also accused her of neglecting him financially despite his health challenges.
“I am very sick and needed to go for medical treatment in Dubai. I called Ilebaye to help me with some money and promised to refund her. She said she didn’t have money. But I saw her video spraying bundles of naira at a colleague’s wedding,” he alleged.
The father further alleged that his daughter negatively influenced her younger brother and interfered in his marriage.
“She has also influenced her younger brother with drugs, and he was expelled from school because of it. She once advised me to divorce her mother,” he added.
Despite the accusations, Emmanuel maintained that he still loved his daughter and wanted reconciliation.
“I still love my daughter deeply. I want her to change and do better. I ask for prayers from Nigerians. The police have already intervened and settled the matter,” he said.
PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Ilebaye, alongside members of her family, including her father and younger brothers, were hospitalised following the confrontation at their Abuja residence.
The incident became public after the reality TV star shared an emotional livestream video crying for help, sparking concern among fans and followers online.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Federal Capital Territory Police Command, Josephine Adeh, disclosed that all parties involved sustained injuries and were receiving medical treatment.
“The man is in the hospital; he is sick. All of them were badly injured and are all in the hospital,” Adeh had said.
She also stated that the siblings were under police protective custody while investigations continued into the matter.
