Oyo State governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde has expressed his condolences to Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on the demise of the Secretary to Ondo State Government, Mr Tayo Oluwatuyi.
Governor Makinde in a statement described the death of Mr Oluwatuyi as painful and shocking.
The governor, who also condoled with Ondo State Government, the family of the late SSG as well as the people of the state, prayed that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.
Makinde said, “I commiserate with Ondo State governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on the unfortunate death of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tayo Oluwatuyi.
“I equally express my condolences to the state government, the family of the deceased as well as the people of Ondo State on the demise of Mr Oluwatuyi. “This death is shocking and painful, but we can only submit to the will of God, who gives and takes life.
“I encourage Governor Aiyedatiwa and the family of Mr Oluwatuyi to be strong and courageous. It is my prayer that God will grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.”
Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde, says his government would do more for the people of the state in 2025.
The governor stated this in his New Year Message aired on the state-owned Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS).
He noted that the administration would embark on decisive actions that would increase Oyo State residents’ spending powers and ease the economic strains they are facing.
Governor Makinde, who also reiterated the position during the Crossover Service held at the Livingspring Chapel International, Ibadan,said he would remain focused and ensure that residents of the state get value for the mandate given to him.
He listed the upgrading of the Ibadan Airport, Alakia to an international status, the first segment of the Ibadan Circular Road and further education and enlightenment of residents as some of the projects the government would embark upon in the New Year.
He also added that his administration would enforce the rule of law across different sectors, noting that more stringent measures would be taken against traffic offences in the state.
Governor Makinde maintained that 2024 tested the resilience of Oyo State residents to the limit, as the state and its people faced so many difficult situations including economic hardship and tragedies in Ibadan.
According to the governor, the nation struggled with economic challenges throughout 2024, with inflation rates reducing the people’s spending power and dragging more people into poverty despite his administration working hard to lift people out of poverty through different policies and programmes.
Governor Makinde said: “What a year 2024 was! Our resilience as a people has been tested almost to the limit. “We have faced economic challenges and social tragedies that have been a direct or indirect result of these challenges. “We were shocked by the 16 January, 2024 Bodija Incident. We reacted by signing Executive Order 001, 2024 on the Safe Handling and Storage of Harmful Substances Within Oyo State. We also took steps to give support to those who were primarily affected by this incident. We will give them even more support this 2025. “In December 2024, disaster again struck in our dear State as we lost 35 children to a stampede at Islamic High School Basorun. We are still mourning this great loss. “Throughout the year, we struggled with economic challenges as a nation. Inflation rates reduced our spending power and dragged more people into poverty than we were able to help escape poverty. “Our hearts are heavy. Still, we are thankful. “These tragedies have forced us as a government to go back to the drawing board and take a second look at our strategies, policies and programmes. “For example, following the Bodija Incident, we took actions that further secured the lives of our people. We are more determined to put further measures in place to ensure that incidents like these never occur again. “The economic difficulties also spurred us to take further actions to pull our people out of poverty. We invested in making Oyo State an economic hub, making our environment more ideal for the private sector to thrive. “We welcomed Africorp Consortium and Shell Nigeria Gas into Oyo State, completed and commissioned the first phase of our Independent Power Project, a public-private partnership with Elektron Energy and flagged off the second agribusiness industrial hub construction at Eruwa. “Indeed, despite the pain we feel regarding the tragedies that befell us last year, we are thankful.” Governor Makinde also used the opportunity to assure residents of the state that there would be a positive turnaround in the New Year, calling on the people to continue to support his administration. “So, with this confidence we look forward to a 2025 that will be a turnaround for us personally and as a people. “As an administration, we look forward to doing more for our people. We are determined to take actions that will increase your spending power and ease the economic strain you are currently facing. “We commit to being less reactive and more proactive. That is why we have mandated appropriate agencies to sensitise our people more about their duties and responsibilities that will lower the possibility of these avoidable disasters. “OYMASED is supposed to educate our people. If we have any policies, programmes, the agency has its job cut out for it and we will keep educating our people. We will also use technology. “We are thankful for the opportunity to see the New Year. I wish you a happy New Year and a very prosperous 2025,” he added.
Governor Seyi Makinde has signed the Oyo State 2025 Budget into law, with assurance that the budget would play a key role in the state’s economic prosperity.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at the Executive Chamber, Governor’s office, Ibadan, Governor Makinde reassured the people of the state that his administration would continue to push for reforms, policies and economic civilization.
He expressed optimism that the signing of the 2025 Appropriation Bill of 684 billion naira would foster growth, enhance infrastructure, and improve the livelihoods of residents.
The governor said the new 80,000 naira minimum wage had been captured in the 2025 budget and its implementation would commence by January 2025.
Governor Makinde called for continued support for his administration, pledging that his government would continue to be transparent in its dealings.
Earlier, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, OSHA, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, said the upward review of the budget from 678 billion naira to 684 billion naira was a deliberate effort to accommodate emerging priorities and critical projects.
Mr Ogundoyin said the emerging priorities and critical projects would drive the state’s economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the overall quality of life of citizens.
The speaker said the lawmakers were committed to working collaboratively with other arms of government to implement policies and programmes for economic growth.
The governor had on November 13 presented a 2025 budget proposal of 678 billion naira to the Oyo State House of Assembly for approval.
The state legislature after its legislative considerations jacked up the budget by an additional 6 billion naira, which raised the total budget to 684 billion naira.
As Muslims celebrate Eid El Kabir all over the World, the Olubadan -Designate, Oba Owolabi Olakuleyin, has congratulated them for witnessing another great festival in Islam.
Oba Olakulehin urged the muslim community to continue to pray for peace and prosperity of Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria in general during the festival period popularly referred to as “Odun Ileya” in Yoruba.
In a statement by the Monarch’s son, Prince Olasunmbo Owolabi-Olakuleyin and made available to Newsmen in Ibadan, the Monarch emphasised the importance of Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice and urged muslims to emulate the prophet’s worthy and exemplary conduct especially at this critical period of our nationhood.
According to the statement, “ The festival of Eid El Adha widely celebrated as the feast of sacrifice is a time for muslims to mirror the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim in their lives. We therefore need to use this festive period to pray for peace, progress and prosperity of our nation with a firm resolve to continue to keep the aspirations of our nation to greatness alive.
“I therefore wish our muslim brothers and sisters in Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria a joyous and peaceful celebration of this significant event imploring them to continue to live peacefully according to the tenets of the Islamic faith.
“This is a very critical period in our journey as a nation. The patience and perseverance of Prophet Ibrahim serves as a strong pointer for us all to hold on fervently to faith in God in all situations and circumstances.
Oba Olakulehin also congratulated Nigeria on the celebration of the nation’s 25th Anniversary of uninterrupted democracy, emphasising the need for continued sacrifice at all levels for the development of the country. Similarly, Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has congratulated the Muslim Ummah in the state and across Nigeria on witnessing Eid-el-Kabir 2024.
The governor, who felicitated the Muslims in a statement gave thanks to Allah for another opportunity to witness the important festival.
He called on Muslims to use the opportunity to rededicate themselves to the service of Allah and for doing good to humanity.
Governor Makinde equally charged them to use the occasion to make more supplications to Allah for continued peace and prosperity in Nigeria and Oyo State.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says his administration remains committed to providing the right foundation to enable children to succeed.
The governor stated this in a statement commemorating the 2024 Children’s Day, noting that children are special and deserve the best of life.
According to the governor, the administration is of the belief that the right foundations are important to children’s growth and progress, hence its strong commitment to improving the quality of education and healthcare delivery in the state.
He felicitated the children, saying: “As we celebrate our children on their special day, we restate our administration’s commitment to ensuring that we provide the right foundation to enable them succeed in life. “Happy Children’s Day!”
Also, Ogun State Government has promised to increase investments towards ensuring the wellbeing of children in the state and equip them with the necessary skills, knowledge and values.
Governor Dapo Abiodun who made the promise in Abeokuta at the commemoration of this year’s Children’s Day highlighted the provision of infrastructure, curriculum improvement as well as technology and innovation as key interventions in the education sector.
Represented by his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako -Oyedele, the Governor also announced efforts by his administration to strengthen the security and safety of the learners, teachers and others working in schools across the state.
Governor Abiodun charged the children to shun any association capable of exposing them to social vices, but to join noble and distinguished youths organizations that would support and train them to become responsible citizens.
In a remark, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms Adijat Adeleye called on parents to prioritize the education of their children and wards, irrespective of gender.
Highlights of the event were the march past and displays by representatives of Primary and Secondary Schools, Voluntary Organizations and Members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC as well as the presentation of prizes to outstanding schools and cutting of the anniversary cake.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has mourned the demise of a former chairman of the First Bank Nigeria, Prince Ajibola Afonja.
Governor Makinde described Prince Afonja as an illustrious son of Oyo State, who represented and promoted the Pacesetter State as a good ambassador.
Prince Afonja was also a one-time Minister of Labour and Productivity.
The governor, who declared the death as shocking, commiserated with the immediate family of the former minister, the people of Oyo Town and Oyo State in general.
He prayed to God to grant repose to his soul and stand by the family and the community he left behind.
“I received the news of the death of a former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Prince Ajibola Afonja, with shock and sadness”.
“I condole with the Afonja family of Oyo, the people of Oyo and all residents of Oyo State on the passage of such an illustrious son of the state”.
“Prince Afonja was a great ambassador of Oyo State, who promoted the state and made immense contributions to its growth”.
“It is my prayer that God grants repose to his soul and grant him Aljana Firdaus“, Governor Makinde added.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has reiterated his commitment to making the state a modern agribusiness hub in Sub-Saharan Africa, just as he promised to give more support to farmers and improve infrastructure and security with a view to attracting large investments in agriculture to the state.
He stated this in his opening remark at an event themed, “Agribusiness for Food Security Initiative”, held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, (IITA), Ibadan.
Governor Makinde noted that his government remained resolute in bringing prosperity to the state and would continue to support youths.
The governor said in his Roadmap for Accelerated Development, that he had thought of how to take the people from poverty to prosperity, noting that given the state’s comparative advantage of arable land, it was clear that embracing agriculture was the way to go, but it was also obvious that using the old method of farming would not produce the desired result.
He said, “We are a state that was doing poorly on economic indices. The internally generated revenue was low for a state that has a rich history of economic development and we are close to the nation’s commercial capital. Lagos is not far from here. Every month, they do an IGR of about N65bn and here, when we came in, it was N1.8bn but we have now managed to push it close to N4bn.
So, in terms of where we want to be, we have not scratched the surface yet.
“So, we had to find a way to stimulate the economy quickly. Our comparative advantage is the arable land. If we are to achieve accelerated development, we have to build our economy around this advantage. The 11 local government areas in Ibadan are double the size of the whole of Lagos State. So, it was a no-brainer that we have to leverage agriculture and agribusiness, but we are not content with practicing agriculture like it was done in the past.
“We need an economic solution driven by data. We need an achievable strategy powered in a new way of thinking about agriculture. One of the platforms set up to drive the new way of thinking about agriculture was the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), headed by Dr Debo Akande.
“So, I will also say that Dr Akande has been instrumental in pushing the new way of practising agriculture in Oyo State and I can tell the whole world that this is yielding dividends. To achieve this, we will focus on partnerships to drive agribusiness, working with the private sector and development organisations.”
Governor Makinde said for Oyo State to become a modern agribusiness hub in Sub-Saharan Africa would require the attraction of large investments in agriculture, adding that to attract the kind of investments needed by the state; it would need to provide adequate infrastructure and security.
He said though the state on his watch had done so well with the provision of infrastructure and security, it would still do more to buoy investors’ confidence.
Talking about the Fasola Industrial Hub, the governor said developing it had provided the state a learning opportunity that would come handy as the state embarks on building Eruwa and Akufo industrial hubs.
The governor lauded the IITA for helping the state with high-quality seeds which are propelling increased productivity in the state.
In a keynote address, a former President of Nigeria, who is also an Honorary Ambassador of IITA, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, said agribusiness would play a vital role in the future of the country.
Chief Obasanjo said that the federal government should not be directly involved in agribusiness since the states have the landmass, resources, manpower, innovations and the infrastructure to develop holistic strategies for food security.
He commended the efforts of women in agribusiness and also encouraged them to do more as food security and food nutrition would go a long way in providing more employment, boost the foreign exchange, and increase in internally generated revenue.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Africa Continental Director CGIAR/ Director General IITA, Dr Simeon Ehui, said the forum was aimed at addressing pressing issues on food security and to drive positive changes by leveraging major stakeholders to ensure a sustainable future for the present and next generation.
Some beneficiaries of Oyo State Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project (YEAP), Ibukunoluwa Tubi and Dolapo Opekun, lauded the initiative which has brought hope to youths. They also thanked Governor Makinde for empowering and supporting youths.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated the Muslim Ummah in the state on the completion of the Holy Month of Ramadan and the Eid-el-Fitri celebration.
The governor congratulated the Muslim faithful for witnessing the 1st Day of the month of Shawwal.
He prayed to Allah to accept the worship of the Muslim Ummah as an act of Ibadah, just as he called on them to use the opportunity of the season to make more supplications to Allah SWT over the situation of the state and the country.
Governor Makinde equally charged residents of the state to be security-conscious before, during and after the Eid-el-Fitri celebrations and report any suspicion to security agencies through the State Emergency Number, 615.
He said: “I congratulate the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State on witnessing the 1st Day of the Shawwal and the successful completion of the Ramadan Fasting.
“It is my prayer that God accepts their worship as Ibadah and grants answers to all their prayers. “I want to call on all Muslims and all residents to continue to make supplications for the country and Oyo State.
“As an administration, we have been doing all we can to address the challenges facing our people and to stimulate the economy of the state. At this critical period, that should be the focus of all leaders at all levels of government.
“But I also know that after we all might have done all we can, it is imperative to continue to hand over our affairs to God Almighty, who is able to turn difficult situations around “Let me also use this opportunity to charge Oyo State residents to be watchful and vigilant before, during and after the Eid-el-Fitri celebrations “Please, be security-conscious and report any suspicion with regards to security to the security agencies through the Oyo State Emergency Number, 615. “Happy Eid-el-Fitri.”
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has felicitated the Christian faithful in the state and across Nigeria on the occasion of the Easter festivities.
The governor, who congratulated the Christians on witnessing another Easter season, called on them to use the special occasion to pray for Oyo State and Nigeria as well as the leadership.
According to the governor, it has become important to engage in more prayers and supplications for the country and the state amid the current economic situation.
He equally charged Christians to imbibe the lessons of love and sacrificial living taught through Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection, saying it is important for Christians, now more than ever before, to put this into practice.
Agodi gate , Old Ife road, area of Ibadan is agog for the official inauguration of the dualised 8.2 kilometer Agodi Gate – Old Ife road – Alakia – Adegbayi junction including an underpass bridge at Onipeye
Our correspondent sighted event planners putting final touches to ensure the ceremony which is underway ,goes unhindered.
Security personnel have been strategically positioned for the maintenance of law and order.
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has disclosed that illegal miners operating in the state were responsible for the explosion which occurred in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital.
He stated this following an on-the-spot assessment of the incident.
Governor Makinde noted that so far 77 persons were injured with two fatalities praying for the souls of the departed to rest in peace and for God to give their loved ones the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The governor said preliminary investigation has it that the illegal miners had stored explosive devices in one of the houses which caused the explosion while the wounded and injured are being treated and moved to public and private hospitals within Ibadan.
He said he has directed that the medical bills of all victims be covered by the government, noting that temporary accommodation would be provided for those whose houses were affected.
Governor Makinde urged all residents to please call 615 for any emergency they might be experiencing at this time and to remain calm and stay away from the immediate scene of the incident to allow rescue operations to be carried out without interference.
He said, “Earth-moving equipment, ambulances, emergency lights, and security were deployed to the scene of the incident”.
“The wounded and injured are being treated and moved to public and private hospitals within Ibadan. Medical personnel are on standby at these hospitals to provide all needed assistance to the injured. We have visited UCH to see some of those injured during the incident.”
“Medical personnel are on standby at these hospitals to provide all needed assistance to the injured. We have visited UCH to see some of those injured during the incident. In total, we have 77 injured victims so far, most of whom were treated and discharged and two fatalities. May their souls rest in peace and may God give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss”.
“I have directed that the medical bills of all victims be covered by the government. We will also be providing temporary accommodation for those whose houses were affected and ensuring that they are supported to rebuild their lives”.
“We are grateful to the first responders, security personnel and all those who are at the scene to assist with the rescue operations as well as the medical personnel taking care of the injured. Please say a prayer for those who have been affected by this disaster as we continue with the rescue operations” he added.
It would be recalled that many persons were hospitalised as a result of the explosion which affected houses in the Adeyi Area of Old Bodija, Ibadan.
The Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has sent a request to the Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, to access a loan of one hundred and fifty billion naira to finance the ongoing Senator Rashidi Ladoja Circular Road in Ibadan and other infrastructure.
The governor made this request in a letter forwarded to the OYHA and was read by the speaker of the House, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin.
The governor in the letter said the request became necessary to enable the state government to complete the 104km road project and others in the state.
The House, while deliberating on the loan request, directed its committees on Finance, Appropriation and State Economic Planning and that of Works to investigate the loan request.
It urged the two joint committees to come up with a comprehensive report on the loan request and the mode of payment.
The speaker in his submission stressed the need for the committees to get all necessary briefs on the request and report to the House in one week.
“Having 150 billion for Ibadan Circular Road and other infrastructure is a good idea but we have to consider the payback mechanism. I meant the payment procedure. We also want the two committees to get all the necessary details about the proposed loan. We need a holistic report on the request, the economic impacts of the road and other infrastructure when completed among other details.” Oyo Speaker said
Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has assured workers in the state that despite challenges facing the nation, he is ready to negotiate a new minimum wage for the state workforce.
He said this while addressing public and civil servants in the state during an interfaith service to usher in the New Year.
Governor Makinde commended the workers for their support throughout his first term administration under Omitutun 1.0 while acknowledging their roles in his reelection.
The governor promised to continue to find means to improve the welfare of the state workforce, assuring them of plans to draw up a new minimum wage and build necessary infrastructures to make life meaningful for the people
Earlier, the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni who lauded Governor Makinde for his workers friendly policies, charges the workers to remain diligent and committed to their responsibilities.
The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin, in his speech disclosed that Governor Makinde has granted approval of 35 percent Basic Salary (Legislative Duty Allowance) for all the staff of the Oyo state house of Assembly and Oyo State House of Assembly commission.
Other approvals already granted by Governor Makinde according to the speaker were approval of 30 percent of other allowances under the Negotiated Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure for all legislative staff, 10 percent Annual Basic Salary to be reinstated as Leave Bonus.
Oyo State government has presented cheques to members of the Oyo State Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project, YEAP, who are pioneer set of cassava farming project at Fasola Farms.
The beneficiaries who are sixteen in number received the cheques of over one million naira to boost their farming businesses.
Presenting the cheques to the beneficiaries at the OYSADA headquarters, the Director General of Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande stressed the need for youths to be more active in agribusiness.
Dr Akande who was represented at the OYSADA Headquarters by former Permanent Secretary of the agency, Mr Kola Kazeem said that the project is one of the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde’s efforts to encourage youths in agribusiness.
He said; “We need to appreciate the state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde because this is one of his vision and that is what led to the establishment of the YEAP in Oyo state, it’s the realization of that vision that gave birth to OYSADA led by Dr. Debo Akande.”
“The journey has been good since year 2021 that the YEAP was launched, and since then our youths have been empowered, they all went for training at Nasarawa state and they came back and the governor deemed it fit that these young ones should be encouraged to be part of the state agribusiness and that is why some of them were selected for cassava farming project at Fashola agribusiness hub to pilot this cassava farming project, it was the result of that efforts that we’re celebrating today.”
“Having put in that much effort, the governor deemed it fit to give this sum of money to them as a seed for them to continue to be on agribusiness. We invested in about 45 hectares of land, and only about 18 have been harvested so the remaining is there, and the agreement we had with them is to pay for their efforts, we are here today to give them the 50% of the proceeds from the individual farms, so from the harvested farms so far, we realized two million, six hundred and four thousand naira and we’re giving out one million three hundred and two thousand naira.”
“The farm is still there, we’re still waiting for other YEAP members to come around and harvest their farms so they can come for their proceeds as well.” He said.
Some of the beneficiaries that spoke with journalists, Mr Kayode Alabi from Oyo West, Timilehin Christiana Ogundijo, and Raheem Wahab lauded Governor Makinde and OYSADA’S Director General, Dr. Debo Akande for the support both in kind and cash.
The Oyo State House of Assembly, OYHA, has approved the three hundred and fifty-two billion, two hundred and eighty-two million, five hundred thousand naira only (N352,282,500,00) 2023 Supplementary Budget presented to the legislature by the State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde.
The supplementary budget was passed after the presentation of the House Committee report on Finance, Appropriation and Economy.
The Committee had considered the inputs of the State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, and projections in the Oyo State Government Medium Term Expenditure Framework before the eventual passage of the 2023 Supplementary Budget.
The governor had sought an upward review of the 2023 approved budget from N310,432,500.00 to N352,282,500.00.
This became imperative in order to cater for the twin policy measures of the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, and the floating of the exchange rates by the Federal Government on the State Government spending.
In the supplementary budget, a sum of N169,477,038.38 was approved as recurrent expenditure while a sum of N182,805,366,965.62 is for capital expenditure.
The supplementary budget featured the realignment of some MDAs.
They are the Office of the Governor; Oyo State House of Assembly, House of Assembly Service Commission, Ministry of Public Works & Transport, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Oyo State Investment Promotion & Public Private Partnership Agency, Oyo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Ministry of Health, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Ministry of Justice, and Ministry of Special Duties.
The Sultan of Sokoto and President, Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, SCIA, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar has called on the Muslim Ummah to prioritize the healthcare sector by investing heavily in order to address the challenges facing the sector.
The Sultan of Sokoto stated this in Saki, Oyo State, during the fundraising for the upgrading of Muslim Hospital and College of Nursing, School of Nursing Sciences of the Muslim Medical Foundation, Saki.
Alhaji Abubakar encouraged wealthy individuals to support projects that would benefit the community, stating that Muslims should ensure that the hospital project is built.
The Sultan of Sokoto, who said he has always been willing to visit Saki for a very long time, emphasized that good health complements wealth.
He said: “Everybody around this area and around this state that needs to have medical care would come down here for treatment. We just commissioned school and we hope for many more too”.
“We are making efforts to ensure that all the project laid down are able to fly through all the wealthy people I have personal relationship with to also make their own contributions.”
He made reference to Sokoto State, where Catholics built hospitals, and accessed, not only by Christians but Muslims also, advising the Muslims to keep seeing their Christians fellow as brothers.
He, however, expressed appreciation to the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for supporting his movement to Saki, praying God to continue to guide him in directing the affairs of the state.
In an address of welcome, the Governor of Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde gave an assurance that the current administration would continue to support the development of each community in the state, whilst urging residents to keep living in the spirit of love regardless of religious differences.
Engineer Makinde, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Adebayo Lawal, congratulated donors for the launch, noting that much work needed to be done as a community to bring the project up to standard.
The governor commended Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar for his support, whilst also assuring that the project land would receive the certificate of occupancy within three months.
The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi in his remarks, expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for gracing the occasion.
The event had in attendance top government functionaries including serving senators, Federal House of Representatives members, traditional rulers among others.
In its effort to ease movement and transportation around the Apata-Odo Ona-Challenge axis, the Oyo State Government has assured road users of the axis that the ongoing 12.5-kilometre road construction will be completed by next Monday.
The work on the road has reached about 90 per cent, remaining the median, walkway, streetlight, and some areas to cover with asphalt.
The Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Professor Kehinde Sangodoyin revealed this during an inspection of ongoing projects in Ibadan embarked upon by the Inspection Team of the Ministry.
According to the Commissioner, the inspection was focused on the work done so far since the last inspection in October, this year, and to reconcile what has been discussed with the contractor, and the engineers on site, the quality of the job, and the time of delivery.
He said,“We normally have a fixed time for the delivery of projects. When we came here in October, the contractor assured us that everything would be finished up on the carriageway by December, all things being equal”
“As it is now, they are going to make the delivery time on the carriageway in the third week of December. Some other road furniture that will be worked on are the street lights, traffic lights, and the removal of rubbles. We are going to make sure that the Ministry of Energy and the contractor will finalize the installation of the street lights.”
“The contractor has done a good job. Where we are standing now is called Lay-by, and our projection is to accommodate the commuters; so that the vision for the road construction will not be derailed. This is what we are trying to do, that is to put it into use for commuters and passers-by.
Assuring the road users around the axis of the relief the road will bring after the completion, Professor Sangodoyin said they should express their appreciation to the governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for the speedy work.
“We have broken the back of the project; it just remains the finishing part of it. It will relieve the commuters going from the Apata end to Challenge; they don’t need to go through Benbo or 110 area. It will also add to property value here, and contribute to the ease of flow for traffic from one end to the other.”
On the commissioning, Professor Sangodoyin explained that the time will be fixed after the scope of the work is completed.
“For us, as of today November 16th, we have chosen the area which I called the ‘lay-by’ for us to use because it will be able to accommodate those that will be coming to felicitate with His Excellency when it is time to commission this road, which will be decided by Him.”
While explaining that the construction work has reached about 90 per cent, the project manager of the construction company handling the road, Anitomie Khainallah said the remaining asphalt will be laid within the next three days.
Khainallah added that the walkway and median will be completed in no time, with the assurance that the time frame for completion would be realized if everything goes as planned.
First phase of Iwo-Road-Olodo-Odo-Oba Dual Carriage Bridge on course – Commissioner
Also, the state government has decided to finish one side of the Dual Carriage Bridge along the Iwo-Road-Olodo-Odo-Oba road in order to alleviate the difficulties the motorists and road users encounter while plying the road.
Professor Dahud Sangodoyin made this known while inspecting the progress of work in continuation of the Scheduled Inspection of the ongoing projects in Ibadan.
In his explanation, the commissioner revealed that with the speed of work of the bridge, the first lane would be completed in the next five months and open for use, after which the work of the second lane would commence immediately.
According to Professor Sangodoyin, the measurement used for the construction of the Bridge will allow it to accommodate present and future flood occurrences, adding that the government is working on a quality job that will conform with the international bridge construction standards.
He said, “The work of the piling which is the critical aspect of the bridge is almost done. After the piling, all other things will follow: the columns, the decking, and others.”
“We thought that if we continued with the two lanes, the work may not finish on time, so with the advice from our consultant, we decided to complete the first phase of the bridge to ease the movement of our people, and then continue with the second one.”
“The work is not slow at all; it is good to verify information. People should come to the site to confirm the speed at which the work is going. What should take twenty-one days to dry can’t be stopped when it is ten days. This is engineering; there are processes to be followed. It should be done correctly so that it will give the desired result: this is a bridge”.
The commissioner implored everyone plying the road to be a little patient as the government is working assiduously to put a lasting solution to the flood problem in the area adding that the ongoing project is the beginning of good things to be experienced in the area.
Oyo State House of Assembly has screened and confirmed two commissioners designate submitted by the state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde.
They are, 29 year old Miss Adegoke Adefemi and a Medical Practitioner, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi.
During deliberations, the lawmakers took turn to solicit the commitments of the nominees to the development of the state, in tandem with the agenda of governor Seyi Makinde.
Speaker of the House, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin expressed hope that Miss Adegoke Adefemi would be drafted to the youths and sports ministry while Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi would be in charge of the health ministry.
Mr Ogundoyin said the house was ready to support the commissioner’s nominee to deliver on their mandates to the people of Oyo state.
In an interview shortly after the confirmation, Dr Ajetunmobi emphasized the need to consolidate on the achievements of the Seyi Makinde Administration on health, considering the importance of standard healthcare system to the socio-economic development of Oyo state.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says his administration in partnership with Lagos and Ogun State are to light up one of the busiest roads in Nigeria, the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
He made this known while receiving the Minister for Works, Senator David Umahi, on a courtesy visit in his office, in Ibadan.
From left, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Minister, Federal Ministry of Works, Senator Dave Nweze Umahi and Director, Federal Ministry of Works, Southwest, Engr. Adedamola Kuti, during a courtesy visit to Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media UnitFrom left, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Minister, Federal Ministry of Works, Senator Dave Nweze Umahi; Oyo State Commissioner for Works and Transport, Prof Daud Shangodoyin and Director, Federal Ministry of Works, Southwest, Engr. Adedamola Kuti, during a courtesy visit to Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media Unit.
Governor Makinde noted that the present administration in Oyo State had fixed some federal roads that have viable economic importance to the state, adding that Ibadan-Iseyin Road has been useful for Agribusiness hubs across the zones of the state.
While appreciating the Federal Ministry of Works for the construction and rehabilitation of some major roads in the state, Governor Makinde also disclosed that the state is considering the dualization of the Ibadan-Abeokuta road from the Iyaganku end to Oyo/Ogun State border, while Oyo-Iseyin Road would be commissioned soonest.
Reacting, the Minister of Works, Senator Umahi, said he was in the state to monitor and assess some federal road projects, saying that his assessment report would later be delivered to the federal government.
The Minister for Works, however, sought more cooperation from the state government in achieving success on federal government projects within its domain.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has mourned the death of the designer of Nigeria’s national flag, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, OFR, describing it as the end of an era for creative national heroes and heroines of Oyo State extraction.
Governor Makinde, who noted how the writer of the Nigerian national pledge, Professor Felicia Adedoyin, had passed on a year earlier in 2022, said Akinkunmi has left indelible marks on the sands of Nigeria’s history.
The governor condoled with the family of the late icon, praying to God to grant repose to his soul and grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss of their patriarch.
“Today, I heard of the passing away of one of our national icons and heroes from Oyo State, Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, who designed the Nigerian national flag.
“This is the end of another glorious era for yet another creative mind, who made Oyo State proud in his lifetime.
“I express my deepest condolences to the immediate family of Baba and the entire people of Oyo State, while also praying to God to grant repose to his soul.
“He has surely made an unforgettable mark on Oyo State and Nigeria.”
The Oyo State Government in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture over the weekend trained about 50 disease surveillance agents to enhance accurate reporting of animal diseases (like Anthrax) in the state.
Declaring the 3 days-training open in Ibadan, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye said the training, is aimed at improving disease surveillance and swift response.
He said the epidemiology training was organised by the Regional Disease Surveillance Enhancement, REDISSE Project in collaboration with Oyo State government.
Mr Olaleye added that the programme will help the prevention and control of animal diseases in the state and the nation at large.
The commissioner reiterated that though Oyo State has not recorded any case of anthrax disease so far, all hands must be on deck to prevent such occurrence.
He added that Oyo State Government has put all machineries in place to prevent its outbreak.
Barrister Olasunkanmi said, “Oyo State Government under the leadership of Engineer Seyi Makinde has put every measure in place in preventing the animal disease -Anthrax”.
Some of the efforts put in place, according to him are mass media sensitization, on the spot assessment to abattoirs and livestock markets in the state to educate stakeholders on the outbreak of anthrax in the country.
While expressing gratitude on behalf of Engineer Seyi Makinde to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the commissioner enjoined the participants to be attentive and focus on the assignment before them, bearing in mind that they are ambassadors for the state.
He stressed that knowledge acquired would go a long way in protecting animal and human lives from dangers of the epidemic.
Speaking on the importance of the training, the facilitator from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Ibukunoluwa Akinola, said the training of para-professional Veterinary and Animal Health workers in both government and private establishments in the state on how to report animal diseases is timely.
She noted that, “we have been reporting diseases but the training would help on how to improve the quality of reporting”.
Mrs. Akinola added that by this, international and local partners would know the status of the disease in each state and provide necessary vaccines to prevent its spread.
“This would help in the protection of animals as well as man”, according to her.
She equally hinted that most human diseases are zoonotic-which are spread from animals to human and if it is accurately reported, it would help enhance hygienic environment.
Dr. Akinola commended Oyo State government for its prompt action against the disease, through various sensitisation programs, for stakeholders, especially butchers.
She also affirmed that no anthrax case has been recorded in Oyo State.
Thanking the organizers of the training, Mr. John Fabunmi and Mrs. Aina Akinola who spoke on behalf of the participants said the training was a refresher course coming at the right time.
They promised to be active in their responsibilities to ensure animal diseases were accurately reported to avert outbreak of diseases in the state and Nigeria at large.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde wants more cordial relationships between his government and the workers as normalcy returned to the state secretariat after the state labour unions ended a week-long protest to press home their demands.
Governor Makinde while addressing the leadership of NLC at the Governor’s office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan, promised that the state government would be having quarterly meetings with the leadership of the labour unions for more harmonious working relationship between the labour and government.
The governor who urged the state workers to always consider the progress of the state first in their dealings, tasked all stakeholders to ensure that the peaceful atmosphere of the state is not disrupted.
Reacting on behalf of the workers, the state NLC Chairman, Mr Kayode Martins, lauded the magnanimity of Governor Makinde to address the workers.
The Oyo state NLC boss explained that the governor has agreed to accede to their demands pointing out that government has paid four months deductions from salaries out of the six owed with a promise to pay the remaining two in August
Mr Martins also disclosed that further meetings would be held between the two parties.
Radio Nigeria reports that workers as at 7am this morning have been reporting to their duties.
Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has announced Mrs Olanike Kudirat Adeyemo, a Professor at the Department of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Ibadan, as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) designate.
The announcement was contained in a letter signed by the state governor.
Professor Adeyemo, who served as the Head of the Oyo State COVID-19 Decontamination and Containment team of the Oyo State COVID-19 Taskforce, was born on July 17, 1970.
She bagged the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), Master’s degree in Veterinary Public Health (MVPH) and Ph.D. Veterinary Public Health, in 1994, 1998 and 2005 respectively from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
Professor Adeyemo is also a member of many learned societies, including Society of Toxicology (SOT), the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), the Fisheries Society of Nigeria (FISON), the World Aquatic Veterinary Medical Association (WAVMA) and the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSDW).
Professor Adeyemo’s scholarship and leadership are around “One Health” trans-disciplinary research that cuts across traditional boundaries and paradigms to create novel conceptual, methodological, and translational innovation at the environment-livestock-wildlife-human interface with significant policy implication for Nigeria, the African Continent, and the rest of the world.
She is the host PI on the project (2020-2023) titled “Improving Biosecurity: A Science-based Approach to Manage Fish Disease Risks and Increase the Socio-economic Contribution of the Nigerian Catfish and Tilapia Industries” in collaboration with colleagues at Mississippi State University, USA and WorldFish, Malaysia is facilitated by USAID grant under the Fish Innovation Lab for Fish. The project is aimed at improving Nigerian aquatic animal production biosecurity and health management.
An erudite scholar, she has many publications to her credit.
Oyo State House of Assembly has directed commissioner nominees presented by Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde to submit fifty copies of their credentials to the clerk on or before 5 O’clock in the afternoon Friday, 23rd June 2023.
Speaker of the house, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin gave the directive during Thursday’s plenary after reading a letter from the executive requesting for the screening of seven commissioner nominees.
Mr Ogundoyin who said the commissioner nominees are expected to submit evidence of their submitted Code of Conduct Bureau form explained that they are to appear before the house next week Tuesday, 27th June, 2023.
Names of the commissioner nominees read on the floor of the house included Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi, Mr. Akinola Ojo, Prof Musibau Babatunde, Professor Daud Sangodoyin, Mrs Toyin Balogun, Mr. Seun Ashamu and Alhaja Fausat Joke Sanni
Meanwhile, the house after adopting the report of an ADHOC committee, reinstated the vice chairman, Iseyin Local government, Mr Raheem Ajibola who was alleged of misappropriation.
The Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde will on Wednesday, 14th June, 2023 issue a proclamation for the inauguration of the 10th Oyo State House of Assembly.
The proclamation will be done at the inaugural sitting of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Parliament Building, Secretariat Ibadan.
The sitting is to be graced by the governor and other distinguished guests and friends of the lawmakers.
This is in line with the powers conferred on Governor Seyi Makinde under Section 105, sub-section (3) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to proclaim the inauguration of the new House of Assembly.
