Religion

Easter: Practice love and sacrificial living more – Makinde

By Web News 422

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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Infrastructure

Makinde Makes Good Promise as All Set for Agodi -Gate Rd Inauguration 

By Web News 559

By Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

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.

Details as event unfold 

Crime

Bodija Explosion: Explosives stored by illegal miners responsible – Makinde

By Web News 643

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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Infrastructure

Circular Road: Makinde Makes 150 Billion Naira Loan Request

By Web News 385

By Mosope Kehinde 

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

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Governance

Gov Makinde Promises Implementation of New Minimum Wage

By Web News 1125

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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Agriculture

Oyo Government Empowers YEAP Cassava Farming Project Pioneer Set

By Web News 509

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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News

OYHA Approves 352 Billion Naira Supplementary Budget

By Web News 261

By Mosope Kehinde

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.

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Religion

Priotise health sector development – Sultan charges Muslim Ummah

By Web News 559

By Nafiu Busari

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.

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Transportation

12.5Km Apata-Odo Ona-Challenge Road to be delivered soon – Professor Sangodoyin

By Web News 501

By Oluwakayode Banjo

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.

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Politics

OYHA Confirms Commissioners Designate

By Web News 598

By Mosope Kehinde

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.

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Transportation

Plans are in the works to light up Lagos-Ibadan Expressway – Makinde

By Web News 472

By Iyabo Adebisi

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 Unit
From 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.

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Lifestyle

Pa Akinkunmi left indelible marks on the sand of Nigeria’s history – Makinde

By Web News 359

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.”

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Agriculture

Anthrax: Oyo, FG, Train 50 Surveillance Agents 

By Web News 436

By Oluwakayode Banjo

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.

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Labour

Makinde, Labour Reach Truce

By Web News 361

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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Politics

2nd Female SSG Emerges in Oyo

By Web News 521

By Iyabo Adebisi

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.

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Politics

Oyo Assembly Directs Commissioner Nominees to Submit CVs

By Web News 472

By Mosope Kehinde

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.

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Politics

Makinde to Proclaim Inauguration of 10th Oyo Assembly Wednesday

By Web News 423

By Mosope Kehinde

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.

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Politics

Makinde Announces Segun Ogunwuyi as CoS, Sulaiman Olanrewaju as CPS

By Web News 754

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has re-appointed Mr Segun Ogunwuyi as the Chief of Staff, CoS.

The governor has also announced Mr. Sulaiman Olanrewaju of Nigerian Tribune as his new Chief Press Secretary, CPS.

He made the announcement shortly after adopting and signing the report of the Ogunwuyi-led transition committee held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s office, Secretariat, Ibadan. 

Mr Olanrewaju until his new appointment is the Group Business Editor of the Nigerian Tribune.

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Environment

Makinde Dissolves Oyo State Waste Management Task Force

By Web News 604

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has ordered the dissolution of the State Task Force on Waste Management.

The State Chairman, Transition and Inauguration Committee, Mr Segun Ogunwuyi, who disclosed this in a statement, said the dissolution is with immediate effect.

According to the statement, the Task Force is by this directive required to officially hand over and submit all government properties to the Transition & Inauguration Committee.

The statement adds that Governor Makinde appreciated members of the task force for their tremendous contributions to the development of the State.

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Education

NYSC: Gov Makinde, Adeleke Urge Corps Members to Be Patriotic

By Web News 559

By Adenitan Akinola/ Dayo Adu 

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has enjoined corps members serving in the state to disregard all security scares while carrying out their national assignment in their respective host communities.

Governor Makinde stated this while declaring the three weeks orientation course for 2023 Batch A, Stream 2 closed at the NYSC permanent orientation camp, Iseyin.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Seun Fakorede, who noted that the orientation course had fully equipped and motivated the Youths for positive changes in their respective places of primary assignments and host communities, challenged the corps members not be scared to live as role models and positive agents.

“As you are moving into the nooks and crannies of Oyo State, you to make your impact felt in your host should be ready

communities by embarking on projects that would add value to their lives. Endeavour to leave a legacy in your various host communities by rendering selfless service to the people.”

“I wish to inform you that Oyo State people are very hospitable and accommodating. There is no cause to entertain any fear because Oyo State is peaceful. Feel free to interact with the people of your host communities to enable you share in their dreams, hopes and aspirations for a better life. Be role models at your Places of Primary A ssignment especially those of you that are posted to Schools. The younger ones have a lot to learn from you, please make sure you influence their lives positively. “

Earlier in a welcome address, State Coordinator, NYSC,  Mr Abel Oche warned the corps members against absenteeism, truancy, corruption and unnecessary journeys, saying any corps member caught would be sanctioned.

“You should start to exhibit and nurture the leadership traits in you by beginning to dream big and create visions that will outlast you in the community you find yourself. I want to admonish you to relate cordially with the people of your host communities and steer clear of any act of indiscipline or anti-social behaviour.”

“You should avoid unnecessary journeys and if you must travel ensure that you obtain written permission through the appropriate channel of communication. Let me warn you that any act of absenteeism, truancy or indiscipline on your part will be met with appropriate sanctions as stipulated in the NYSC Bye-laws.”

A total number of Two thousand, One hundred and twenty-nine (2,129) corps members trained during the three weeks camp orientation course, were deployed across the thirty-three Local Government Areas of the state for their national service year.

Similarly, The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has appealed to Corps employers in the state to treat Corps members deployed to their employment with hospitality, care and a sense of patriotism for the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.

Senator Adeleke made the appeal while declaring close the Orientation course for the Stream Two Batch A participants of the NYSC posted to Osun state at the permanent orientation camp, Ede.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Teslim Igbalaye, the Governor charged them to make the place of primary assignment and the entire state a home for the Corps members as a major step towards promoting peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.

He also admonished the Corps members to be conscious of their roles in promoting Nigeria’s unity, peace and progress at all times.

“Do only those things capable of promoting peace and unity in the communities where you are posted to. Do not look down on the people of your host communities but rather love them and do them good at all times. Do not get involved in activities capable of jeopardizing your security and your peaceful co-existence in your community.”

Earlier in an address, the Osun State coordinator of NYSC, Mr Agbor Ndoma Obim urged them to be the beacon of change and hope they were trained to be to the people.

“As you have actively participated in the Orientation programme, I urge you to take the Primary Assignment and Community Development Service seriously. Your commitment and unalloyed participation in them will determine your participation in the fourth cardinal programme which is the Winding up and Passing out Parade.”

Mr Obim noted that as a way of creating an impact on their host communities, the corps members should identify a project that addresses the need of the people and mobilize to meet such need 

He warned them against night journeys and unauthorized travellings, saying that they should seek refuge at military formations or police stations once it is six o’clock during any journey.

Culture

Oyo Assembly Holds Public Hearing on Proposed Amendment to Chiefs Law

By Web News 672

By Mosope Kehinde

Members of the traditional institutions in Oyo State, Ministries and Agencies of Government, other Stakeholders and members of the public on Friday converged on the Oyo state secretariate for a public hearing on the proposed amendment of the Oyo State Chiefs Law.

In their separate Contributions, representatives of the olubadan in council, Otun Balogun of olubadan, High chief Tajudeen Ajibola, Onpetu of Ijero land, Oba Sunday Oyediran, Bashorun of Oyo, Alhaji Yussuf Akinade commended Gov seyi Makinde for the initiative, urging the 9th assembly to ensure all view are considered when passing the bill into law

In a welcome address, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin represented by the Deputy Speaker, Mr Muhammed Fadeyi said the public hearing became necessary as enshrined in the law after the bill passed through the second reading.

Mr Ogundoyin also stressed the need for the assembly to gather, collate and use the views of the stakeholder as a legislative process required for the amendment of the Chiefs law.

Chairman, House Commitee on Local Government, chieftaincy matters and state honours, Mr Akinjide Akintunde and commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and State Honours, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye said the public hearing will avail them the opportunity to have robust deliberation on section 28 subsection (1) of the chiefs laws to which amendment is proposed by the Executive Arm of Government

Mr Akinjide and Barrister Olaleye assured the Stakeholders that their inputs will be duly considered on the amendment process

It would be recalled that, the Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde sought an amendment to the Chiefs Law, Cap 28, Laws of Oyo State through an Executive council letter he forwarded to the State House of Assembly on Tuesday, and the bill which was read for the second time was committed to the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

The part sought to be amended is subsection (1) of Section 28 of the Principal Law.

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Economy

FG Inaugurates First International Gemstone Market in Ibadan

By Web News 1483 2

By Iyabo Adebisi

Federal Government has inaugurated the first international gemstone market in Nigeria, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The International Gemstone Market under the economic sustainability plan of the federal government is situated at Ojoo in the Akinyele Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite said the project was in line with the President Muhammadu Buhari’s resolve to anchor his economic diversification agenda on two key sectors of Mining and Agriculture.

According to him, the ministry designed six strategic artisanal and small-scale mining, ASM, Cluster Projects in the six geopolitical zones.

He said the choice of Ibadan as a location for the International Gemstone Market is predicated on the rich deposits of gemstones in the zone.

Mr Adegbite noted that the International Gemstone Market in Ibadan for the Southwest Zone would create employment and wealth for the country. 

On the sustainability of the place, Architect Adegbite stated that the market would be sustained beyond this administration as it would be run by the ministry.

The minister commended the Oyo State government for the donation of the land on which the market was sited.

He said: “These landmark projects are to create an enabling environment to support the Mining Industry through the formalization of the ASM Sub-sector as a major driver of the key growth parameters to engender the development of the Mining Sector since over 90% of the Mining activities in the country could safely be said to be ASM driven.” 

“Over the years, a thriving informal gemstone market has evolved in Ibadan. The informal nature of the market gave credence to poorly regulated trading of mostly unprocessed gemstones, leading to capital flights and job losses. It is in a bid to leverage on this long-standing trading experience that the decision to establish the Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) Cluster International Gemstone Market in Ibadan for the Southwest Zone was mooted”.

“This event has again provided an opportunity to highlight the efforts of the administration of His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari to open some of the potentials available in the Mining Sector to serve as an alternative revenue source”. 

“The concept of the International Gemstone Market was a crafted policy to spur job creation and capacity development of gemstones mining operators in Oyo State and environs, through the Economic Growth and Sustainability Plan of the Federal Government”. 

“This project houses several Federal Government initiatives geared towards curbing smuggling of gemstones and other minerals as well as the development of the capacities of our teaming youths to actively participate in downstream gemstone and gold value chain”. 

“It will interest you to note that this project is designed based on the cluster concept which has become a global trend in industrial development to promote shared amenities, agglomeration of similar producers, customers etc. based on geographical proximity and mineral endowment of rare metals and gemstone pegmatites (whose belt trend from Wamba, near Jos, in North Central Nigeria to Ago-Iwoye area in the southwest, Oyo State) or access to complementary expertise to promote efficiency and increase specialization and production.”

“Some of the notable envisaged outcomes from the International Gemstone Market include but are not limited to the following: 

Creation of over 20,000 jobs along the gemstone mining value chain in South-Western Zone cluster; Improved revenue generation from ASM subsector for both operators and government.” 

Inaugurating the project, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde who was represented by the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Mr Seun Ashamu lauded the federal government for the initiative.

Governor Makinde said his administration has designated solid minerals as a sector to grow the economy between 2023-2027 under the Omitutun 2.0 manifesto of sustainability.

The governor called on residents of the state and stakeholders in the gemstones market in the state to follow laid down rules.

In a message, the acting president of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Musa Mohammed who spoke through the Secretary, Dele Ayanleke commended different federal government’s efforts in the mining sector, appealing for facilitation of equipment leasing for members at various operation clusters.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade, had intimated that the project was part of the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic to boost the value-chain of the Minerals and Metals Sector and to cushion the effects of the pandemic on our artisanal and small miners in the country.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Mining equipment to mining cooperatives by the minister, Mr Olamilekan Adegbite.

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Judiciary

Makinde Swears in Yerima as Substantive CJ

By Web News 550

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has sworn in Justice Iyabo Yerima as substantive Chief Judge of the state.

At the ceremony held at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, Governor Makinde said that his administration would give Justice Yerima the support needed to carry out her duties diligently.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (right) sign; his deputy, Bayo Lawal (left); the newly swear-in Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima (second right) and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Service, Governor’s Office, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media Unit.

The governor said that the appointment of Justice Iyabo Yerima was based on her experience, capacity and her conviction to do what is right to build a strong judiciary institution.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (second right); his deputy, Barr Bayo Lawal (left); Deputy Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Muhammed Fadeyi (right) and the newly swear-in Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, PHOTO: Oyo Gov’s Media Unit.

In a remark, the newly sworn-in substantive Oyo CJ, Justice Iyabo Yerima pledged to take the state Judiciary to a greater height.

The CJ promised to complete the construction of the High Court in Ogbomoso and the renovation of the High Court in the state before the end of the first term of the present administration.

It would be recalled that a few months ago the new Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima was sworn in as the Acting Chief Judge of the state.

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Religion

Makinde Felicitates Muslims on Hijab Day

By Web News 455

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the promotion of religious freedom, harmony and tolerance across the state.

In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, Governor Makinde congratulated female Muslims across Oyo State on this year’s celebration of hijab day.

He said his administration would not discriminate against any religion in the state. 

Gov Makinde assured that he will continue to relate, interface and dialogue with all religious leaders, adding that they have not only been supportive of his administration but also prayerful.

He appealed to religious leaders in Oyo State to continue to educate their followers on religious harmony and tolerance.

The statement also indicated that the special Assistant on Islamic Affairs to the governor, Imam Wale Abdulrushid had held a brief ceremony at the secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan to commemorate the day.

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Education

NYSC Remains Inalienable to National Unity- Governors

By Web News 706

Oyo state Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has urged corps members posted to the state to explore the unity of Nigeria in their various host communities

He gave the advice at the official swearing-in ceremony of the 2023 Batch ‘A’, Stream One Corps members held at NYSC permanent camp Iseyin

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Bayo Lawal advised the corps members to see their posting as a call to sacrifice, dedication, perseverance and humility.

Governor Makinde also reiterated his commitment to supporting the NYSC scheme with facilities to enhance the smooth running of the orientation programme and prompt payment of the allowance for corps members serving in Oyo state.

Earlier in an address of welcome, State Coordinator, NYSC Mr. Odoba Abel Oche, said over one thousand five hundred corps members were registered for the three weeks orientation programme and enjoined the corps members to take advantage of the activities so as to be better equipped for the one-year mandatory service.

The swearing-in ceremony had in attendance the Acting Chief Judge of Oyo state, Mrs Iyabo Yerima, Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Ṣeun Fakorede, security chiefs and representatives of traditional chiefs as well as cooperate organisations.

Dayo Adu

Similarly, in Osun State, the governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke says what binds Nigerians together is stronger than what divides the nation.

Senator Adeleke made the remark at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ede.

Addressing members of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC posted to Osun State for the 2023 Batch A stream I, Senator Adeleke charged young Nigerians to let go of negative preconceptions and misconceptions capable of distorting their contributions to the path of uniting Nigeria.

The Osun Governor told the corps members that they had great roles to play in strengthening and expanding the capacity of Nigeria’s economy by embracing skills acquisition.

“Be creative and innovative as graduates. Do not only think of consuming but rather begin to think of what you can produce or offer as a solution to human needs and problems. Imbibe the mindset of an entrepreneur and toll the path of diligence, hard work and industry, which is the key to lasting success and prosperity.”

In a remark, the State Coordinator, Mrs Abdulwahab Olayinka reminded the corps members of their roles in the next month’s general elections, urging them to be on their best behaviour.

“Conduct yourselves in the most respectful and acceptable manner during your training and on the day of the election. The conduct and contributions of your predecessors in the electoral process have earned the scheme the love and respect of the people “. The coordinator said.

Mrs Abdulwahab appealed to the Osun State Governor, corps employers and other stakeholders for the review of the state allowance for corp members, renovation of the dilapidated infrastructure, expansion of the multipurpose hall and construction of additional camp for corps members as well as accommodation for officials at the orientation camp.

“It’s pertinent to note that NYSC Osun State lacks a befitting office accommodation since inception in 1991”

The Osun State Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Adepele-Ojo, who was represented by Justice Matthias Agboola administered the oath of office and that of allegiance to the corps members.

A total of two thousand and fifty-nine corps members are to participate in the three weeks exercise.

One thousand, five hundred and nine of them were deployed to Osun State, while five hundred and fifty were dislodged from Lagos state.

Adenitan Akinola 

In Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji has assured the NYSC that his administration will continue to support the scheme with available resources in the area of provision of facilities in the camp.

Governor Oyebanji gave the assurance at Orientation Camp in Ise/Orun/ Emure Ekiti.

The Governor, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports Development, Mrs Tola Faseluka urged corporate organizations, nongovernmental organizations and well-meaning individuals to join hands with the government in sustaining a good future for Nigerian youths.

He urged them to exhibit a high level of responsibility, integrity, patriotism, loyalty, dedication, discipline and commitment to the nation.

The Ekiti State NYSC coordinator, Mrs Mary Chikezie appealed to the corps members to pay attention to the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development, SAED lectures and other training to make them self reliance after the service year.

According to her, the orientation course was put together to equip the corps members with the necessary skills that would enable them to meet the challenges of service years and beyond.

The NYSC coordinator, who congratulated the corps members for graduating from their various institutions, described their mobilization as a clarion call for them to rise up to the task of nation-building and integration of its citizens.

Mrs Chikezie, however, warned the corps members against unruly behaviour such as wrong use of social media, cultism, drug abuse, gambling, drunkenness and other negative devices within and outside the camp.

She told them that NYSC management had put in place various reward platforms to appreciate all the outstanding ones and at the same time sanction those found wanting to serve as a deterrent to others.

Mrs Chikezie applauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for creating an enabling environment for corps members to live peacefully in the state.

She equally thanked the Governor for subsidizing the meal of the last Orientation course in the camp, calling for the extension of the meal subsidy for the corps members currently at the orientation camp.

The Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice John Adeyeye, represented by Justice Olalekan Olatawura administered the oath on the corps members, warning them against violating the rules and regulations guiding the scheme.

About one thousand NYSC 2023 Batch A stream One corps members deployed to Ekiti State have been sworn in, with an appeal to them to participate actively in all the camp activities both physical and intellectual.

The corps members comprise 455 males and 416 females drawn from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

Amos Ogunrinde

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