Sport

By Olusegun Folarin

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has rewarded medal-winning athletes who represented the state at the 22nd National Sports Festival hosted in the state.

At a colourful cash award ceremony held in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun announced over four hundred and fifty million naira in cash prizes for athletes who won gold, silver and bronze medals at the prestigious national competition.

The Governor who was represented by the head of service,  Mr Kehinde Onasanya described the reward as the fulfilment of promises made to the athletes during the games.

He added that all statutory obligations, including training allowances, participation allowances and contract fees, had been fully paid.

He commended the athletes for their discipline, resilience and determination, noting that their performance had further positioned Ogun State as a leading force in sports development in Nigeria.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka had described the festival as a symbol of unity and healthy competition.

According to him, the state did not only host successfully but also excelled in performance.

Ninety-three gold medalists received two point five million naira each,  sixty-one silver medalists were awarded with one point five million naira each while Eighty-one bronze medalists went home with one million naira each. 

Sport

The Deputy Head of Mission at the British High Commission, Simon Field, recently visited world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua in the hospital following a deadly road accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.

A statement issued by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the Governor of Ogun State, on Monday, revealed that Field met with Joshua during his hospital visit.

He also engaged in discussions with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. British officials are closely monitoring the ongoing situation surrounding the tragic incident.

“The British High Commission was formally notified of the accident. Officials of the Mission are monitoring developments and remain in contact with the hospital and the Ogun State Government.

The Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Simon Field, visited the hospital and met with Anthony Joshua and the two governors. The families of the deceased have also been contacted through the High Commission,” the statement read.

The accident, which took place around midday on Monday, involved a Toyota Lexus SUV carrying Anthony Joshua and three other passengers.

The statement confirmed that two of the vehicle’s occupants lost their lives in the crash. They were identified as Ayodele Kelvin Olu, a 36-year-old Nigerian-British citizen, and Gami Sina, a 36-year-old British citizen.

In the aftermath of the crash, Governor Dapo Abiodun visited the Lagos hospital where Joshua was receiving treatment and was later joined by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Both governors are said to have stayed at the hospital for several hours to closely monitor the situation and ensure that the boxer received the necessary medical care.

Commenting on the incident, Governor Abiodun stated that he rushed to the hospital as soon as he was informed about the accident and personally oversaw Joshua’s treatment, alongside Governor Sanwo-Olu.

“As soon as I was informed, I headed straight to the hospital and was later joined by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. We both took charge of the situation, oversaw Anthony Joshua’s care, and remained at the hospital for over seven hours,” the governor said.

Other senior officials who visited the hospital included the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade.

The Ogun State Government reassured the public that Joshua was in stable condition and receiving the necessary medical care. It also expressed satisfaction with the quality of care provided by the medical team.

“We are comfortable with the doctors and the quality of care at the hospital, and we appreciate the medical team for their professionalism,” Abiodun said.

President Bola Tinubu was also informed about the accident.

According to the state government, the President held separate conversations with Anthony Joshua, his mother, and Governor Abiodun, during which he expressed his heartfelt sympathies and condolences.

Governor Abiodun shared the President’s words, saying, “This immense tragedy has cast a deep shadow over this season. These are very difficult moments, and we must stand firm, united, and support one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”

Authorities have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident, with the Ogun State Government assuring the public that details will be released once the probe is completed.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Radio Nigeria Ibadan Zonal Station

The government also assured that updates regarding Joshua’s condition and other developments related to the incident will be communicated to the public as necessary.

Channelstv/Adetutu Adetule

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Economy

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has presented a ₦1.7 trillion Appropriation Bill for 2026 to the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, marking a 63% increase over the 2025 budget of ₦1.046 trillion.

Speaking at the Assembly Complex, the governor said the proposed “Budget of Sustainable Legacy” aims to deepen reforms, consolidate the gains of the past six years, and drive sustainable socio-economic growth across key sectors.

Governor Abiodun outlined six policy priorities for the 2026 fiscal year: food security, human capital development, infrastructure expansion, revenue reform, community development, social protection, and economic diversification.

He noted that the budget carries a 37:63 recurrent-to-capital ratio, with ₦624.76 billion set aside for recurrent expenditure and ₦1.044 trillion dedicated to capital projects.

The allocation, he said, underscores his administration’s commitment to completing ongoing infrastructure projects and improving public amenities.

The governor urged lawmakers to give the bill thorough consideration and pledged diligent, timely implementation once approved.

Prince Abiodun expressed confidence that the 2026 fiscal year—coinciding with Ogun State’s 50th anniversary—would usher in greater progress, prosperity, and improved well-being for residents.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Security

By Iyabo Adebisi

The South-West Governors’ Forum has urged the Federal Government to urgently establish state police, saying rising insecurity across the country makes the move necessary.

The call was contained in a communiqué read by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu after the Forum’s meeting hosted by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde in Ibadan.

The governors—representing Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Ondo and Osun (via the deputy governor)—said state police would strengthen security both in the region and nationwide.

They also announced the creation of a joint security intelligence-sharing and communication system, including a live digital platform to exchange threat alerts, log incidents, and coordinate responses.

The Forum reviewed recent security breaches and set up a South-West Security Trust Fund under the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria DAWN Commission, to be managed by the Special Advisers on Security from the six states.

The governors commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing security reforms and the swift rescue of abducted victims in Kwara and Niger States.

They called for immediate Federal Government surveillance of forests across the region, noting that criminal groups increasingly use them as hideouts.

They also appealed to the President to deploy forest guards to South-West states while state governments provide personnel.

The communiqué noted concerns about unregulated interstate migration and announced plans for stricter border monitoring, improved data collection and collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, for proper identification.

The governors also raised alarm over illegal mining, calling for a stronger licensing and enforcement framework to curb environmental and security risks.

Reaffirming their support for state police, they said “the time is now,” adding that the region remains committed to reclaiming forests, enhancing food security, and promoting peace.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Security

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has convened an emergency security meeting with all security agencies in the state as part of efforts to reinforce public safety.

Briefing journalists after the meeting, the governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to national security, particularly the recent rescue of abducted victims in Kebbi and Kwara States.

Governor Abiodun announced that Ogun State would begin the registration of non-indigenes to improve documentation and aid early detection of criminal elements.

He also warned community leaders, Baales and royal fathers against allocating land without government approval, saying landlords who sell land to criminals would be prosecuted and such properties confiscated.

Governor Abiodun cited areas identified as security concerns, including “Zanga” in Ijebu-Ode and some parts of Ota.

He, however, clarified that Fulani residents in the Ajebo axis had lived peacefully in the area for years, urging the public to remain vigilant and support security efforts.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to strengthen all security formations, including vigilante groups, to ensure prompt response to threats.

He said Ogun remains a preferred destination for investors, and the government is committed to maintaining a safe environment.

Governor Abiodun added that miscreants hiding among law-abiding non-indigenes would be identified and removed, stressing that while the state is accommodating, it will not tolerate criminal activity.

He also acknowledged concerns about scrap pickers, some of whom reportedly exploit the trade to commit crimes and added that the state would review their activities and meet with leaders of non-indigenes and non-Yoruba-speaking communities to address the issue.

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Lifestyle

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has paid a condolence visit to the Awolowo family over the passing of Mr. Segun Awolowo Jr.

The governor, who was accompanied by members of the State Executive Council, was received by the widow of the deceased, his children, his mother, Mrs Abba Folawiyo, and other members of the Awolowo family.

In a message shared on his verified X handle, @DapoAbiodunCON, Governor Abiodun described the death of Segun Awolowo Jr. as both a personal and national loss, noting the emotional atmosphere at the family residence.

The governor extended his condolences to the widow, children, and the wider Awolowo family, praying for God’s comfort and the repose of the soul of the departed.

Segun Awolowo Jr., first grandson of the late Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council, died on Thursday at the age of 62.

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Judiciary

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosúnmọ́lá Dipeolu says the establishment of a Court of Appeal in the state will ease access to justice and end years of travelling distance for appellate matters.

Justice Dipeolu stated this while reacting to the announcement of the establishment of a Court of Appeal by Governor Dapo Abiodun during a special service to usher in  the 2025/2026 Legal Year, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Describing the approval as a major relief for the judiciary, the Chief Judge also noted that the new division would ease access to justice and decongest the Ibadan division.

Justice Dipeolu who commended Governor Abiodun for the move, added that the state judiciary’s adoption of e-filing and e-service had already positioned Ogun State for a more efficient justice system.

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Politics

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for appointing experienced and competent individuals to lead the State House of Assembly Service Commission.

Speaker of the House, Mr Oludaisi Elemide, gave the commendation while playing host to the members of the commission led by a former speaker, Mr Suraj Adekunbi during a courtesy visit at the Ogun State House of Assembly Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The speaker, in company of his co-lawmakers noted that the governor’s choice of competent hands reflected his commitment to the progress of the assembly and the state; assuring the commission members of more support for the overall development of the legislative arm and the state in general.

Earlier in his presentation, the new Chairman of the commission, Mr Adekunbi, expressed gratitude to the assembly for their support during the screening and confirmation process, soliciting increased support for the commission to fulfill its assignment.

He also pledged the commission’s dedication to advancing the welfare of the members of staff of the assembly.

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News

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Since assuming office in 2019, the current administration in Ogun State has disbursed a total of N179.7 billion in pensions and gratuities to retirees at both the state and local government levels.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, who made this known while speaking during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration at the Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, said the backlog of pensions from 2012 to 2017, as well as remittances under the National Housing Scheme, has been cleared to enhance workers’ access to mortgage facilities.

To further support workers’ aspirations for home ownership, Governor Abiodun announced the acquisition of 350 hectares of land at Ijemo/Onisẹla for development under the Sites and Services Scheme.

The estate, to be named Prince Dapo Abiodun Bureaucrats Estate, will be equipped with basic infrastructure such as roads, water, and electricity, allowing workers to build affordable homes through mortgage financing.

The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in revitalising the national economy, noting that recent federal reforms have begun to reduce inflation and ease the cost of living.

Governor Abiodun praised the collaboration between the state government and the labour union, saying it has positioned Ogun State as a hub of innovation and economic development.

He urged the workforce to continue their dedication, stressing that the government remains committed to addressing economic challenges and providing infrastructure across the state.

Describing workers as the engine of socio-economic progress, he lauded their role in maintaining industrial harmony and contributing to Ogun’s development.

In his goodwill message, the Federal Controller of Labour in Ogun State, Mr. Andy Egbor, commended workers for their contributions to national growth and praised Ogun State’s labour-friendly policies as a model for other states.

Mr Egbor also called for enhanced collaboration between the state and federal governments to improve workers’ welfare.

Similarly, the Ogun State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Mr. Hameed Benco, highlighted the effects of economic hardship on job security and called on government at all levels to provide low-cost housing, interest-free loans, and establish a market price regulation board to ease the burden on workers.

The Trade Union Congress, TUC, Chairman, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, described the Workers’ Day celebration as a continued struggle for improved welfare.

Mr Lasisi also urged the government to urgently tackle insecurity and intensify economic relief efforts.

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Security

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Ogun State Police Command says it has recorded a noticeable decline in crime rate in the first quarter of 2025 with 2,141 suspects arrested for various crimes, including robbery, kidnapping, rape, and cultism. 

The command also noted that 1,530 suspects were prosecuted between January and March 2025.

This was contained in a statement release by the Police Public relations officer, Mrs Omolola Odutola in Abeokuta for the command’s first quarter review, between January and March, 2025.

The command’s spokesperson attributed the success to the direct interface with citizens and community engagement, which helped bridge the communication gap between the police and the public.

While expressing gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for the technical and logistical support as well as the cooperation of the people of the state, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Lanre Ogunlowo reiterated the command’s commitment to maintaining its partnership with citizens to ensure the safety and security.

Mr Ogunlowo then appealed to parents and guardians to monitor the activities of their wards, especially with regards to cult related activities.

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Housing

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun state government has completed the first phase of 35 housing units at the Ibara Government Reservation Area,GRA, Abeokuta, as part of its urban renewal efforts.

During an inspection of ongoing construction at the Ibara Government Reservation Area, GRA, and the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate along Kobape Road in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said the housing projects had improved the appearance and livability of the state’s major cities.

He stated that his vision is becoming a reality through transformative projects in major towns across the state.

Governor Abiodun expressed concern over the poor condition of the GRAs before his administration stepped in, noting many were uninhabitable

He praised the progress made so far, including the installation of drainage systems, sidewalks, solar-powered streetlights, electricity, and water systems.

The governor commended the Commissioner for Housing and his team for their hard work, saying: “A vision without an effective team cannot be realized. Fortunately, our team has worked diligently to bring our vision to life, and the results are evident.”

He promised similar urban renewal projects for GRAs in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and Ota.

Governor Abiodun also reiterated his goal of attracting more residents and investors from Lagos to Ogun State through better infrastructure and housing opportunities.

At the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate along Kobape Road, the governor explained that the project was inherited from the previous administration and initially faced legal disputes.

He explained that government resolved these issues out of court to ensure the project’s continuation and described the estate as a noble initiative to provide quality housing in a prime location in Abeokuta.

Governor Abiodun emphasized the importance of continuity in governance, saying: “I looked beyond personalities and focused on the collective interest of the state. This estate represents a significant investment in the welfare of our people, and I am pleased that we have transformed it into a first-class residential community.”

He urged prospective buyers to take advantage of the current prices before potential increases due to inflation.

Commissioner for Housing, Mr. Akande Omoniyi, explained that the Ibara GRA renewal project aims to modernize the estate, which was originally built in 1976.

He said four clusters were currently active, with the first phase of 200 duplexes set for commissioning in the next two months while additional units will be ready by December.

Our correspondent reports that the urban renewal and housing projects reflected Ogun State government’s commitment to creating modern, livable communities and boosting economic growth through strategic infrastructure development.

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Lifestyle

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigeria’s first female minister of cabinet rank, Mrs. Adenike Oyagbola.

In a condolence message on Saturday, Governor Abiodun described her as a trailblazer whose life was marked by wisdom, courage, humility, and an unwavering commitment to public service.

He highlighted her remarkable contributions to the advancement of African women, noting that as the Iyalode of Yewaland, she paved the way for greater female participation in politics and the ongoing quest for gender equality.

The governor extended his sympathies to her family and the people of Akinola in Igan-Alade, Yewa North Local Government Area, praying for the repose of her soul and strength for her loved ones during this difficult time.

Chief Oyagbola passed away on Friday at the age of 94.

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Lifestyle

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended condolences to the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole, following the death of his mother, Mrs Monsurat Bankole.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, Governor Abiodun described the late Mrs. Monsurat Bankole as an exceptional woman of substance and a devout Muslim who made significant contributions to her community.

“She was a remarkable leader and a pillar of strength for the Bankole family,” the governor stated.

He prayed for the repose of her soul and divine strength for the bereaved family to endure the profound loss.

Mrs Bankole, a matriarch of the Bankole family, died on Friday at the age of 79 during a brief illness.

Health

By Olusegun Folarin / Oluwatoyin Adegoke

It is important that people take necessary safety measures to prevent outbreak of Cholera especially during the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.

The Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Strategy, Mr Kayode Akinmade who gave the advice in statement in Abeokuta, said the step became necessary following the recent cholera outbreak in the 30 states of the federation, including neighbouring Lagos and Oyo.

Mr Akinmade explained that the Governor was seriously concerned about the development and the need to protect the people in the state, considering the proximity of Ogun to Lagos and the degree of interactions between the two states.

He encouraged residents of the state to drink safe water, wash their hands with soap and water after visiting the toilet and before handling food, wash fruits and vegetables properly with safe water before eating and for preparing food; cook food properly.

Mr Akinmade who noted that people in the state had been given six months grace to provide toilets in their houses, said there was the need for schools, petrol stations, garages and mechanic villages to provide toilet facilities with running water.

He noted that the Ministry of Environment would ensure strict compliance of all the measures as violators would be made to face the wrath of law accordingly.

In a related development, the government has charged residents and visitors to the state during this festivities to celebrate in a cleaner, healthier and safer environment, and maintain personal and collective hygiene

Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya in a press statement in Abeokuta said the charge became necessary in the wake of the outbreak of Cholera in surrounding states.

Mr Oresanya called on people not to litter the environment with waste especially from animal droppings, urging them to dispose properly with government approved waste collectors in their area or drop them in government-provided waste bins nearest to them.

The Commissioner gave an assurance that officials of the state Waste Management Authority, OGWAMA would provide twenty -four hours service throughout the state while Environmental Health Officers would also be counseling people for a cleaner, healthier and safer Sallah celebration.

While felicitating with Muslim Ummah on this year’s Sallah celebration, urged motorists to maintain proper speed limit, as sweepers and other environmental workers would be on duty to keep the environment neat and tidy.

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Environment

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State government has introduced the “Green Book” as a comprehensive document for residents on the sustainability, preservation and protection of the environment.

Governor Dapo Abiodun who unveiled the publication in Abeokuta at a programme to commemorate the 2024 world Environment day explained that the book contained necessary rules, regulations and best practices on managing the environment.

Governor Abiodun who spoke through his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele emphasized the importance of ensuring a sustainable urban environment in the bid to address the challenges posed by climate change. 

In a paper entitled ” achieving the smart city agenda through climate change resilience and urban afforestation” the Director General, Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Professor Zachariah Yaduma said urban resilience to ecological disasters could be strengthened through the  adoption of green roofs, establishment of parks, open green space and naturalization of woodlands.

Earlier, The Commissioner for Environment, Mr Ola Oresanya had listed the environmental protection programmes of the present administration in Ogun State to include the conversion of more than 3,000 tons of wastes into industrial fuel.

Mr Oresanya also announced the government’s plan to embark on the conversion of tricycle and motorcycles to electric powered in line with the federal government’s move to achieve 47 percent reduction in emission by 2030.

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Lifestyle

By Iyabo Adebisi / Omolara Adasofunjo

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.

Transportation

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the Lagos Red Line rail.

In his address at the event, President Tinubu shared insights into the transformative vision for Lagos.

“My team and I toiled day and night to craft and implement a developmental vision that will transform Lagos into the economic powerhouse of Africa and a respected mega city on the global stage. We are realising that dream”.

“It is not a crime to dream big. Just stay focused and stay on course, particularly, make development the central fulcrum, he said.”

Speaking at the launch, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, emphasized that the project aimed not only to enhance transit but also to reshape the urban landscape, setting a new pace for development.

“The LMRT project is a beacon of progress, illuminating the path to a future where our city moves smoother, faster, and more efficiently,” he explained.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, when fully operational, the Lagos Red Line Mass Transit rail system will convey about 500,000 passengers daily.

“The LRMT Red Line rail system, the first phase of which we project will move more than 500,000 passengers daily, stretches over a distance of 27 kilometres from Agbado to Oyingbo, with eight stations at Agbado, Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, Yaba, and terminates at Oyingbo,” Sanwo-Olu explained.

The governor noted that the LMRT Red Line “isn’t just about improving our city’s mobility; it’s about reshaping our urban landscape and setting a new pace for development.

 “By connecting critical points across Lagos, we’re opening doors to opportunities, growth, and a sustainable future.”

Among the distinguished guests at the commissioning were Governors Usman Ododo (Kogi), Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, and other notable dignitaries.

Here are eight facts to know about the Lagos Mass Transit train:

* The first phase of the LRMT project is expected to facilitate 37 trips daily and move more than 500,000 passengers daily.

* The rail stretches over a distance of 27 kilometres.

* There are eight stations from Agbado in Ogun State to Lagos State – Iju, Agege, Ikeja, Oshodi, Mushin, and Yaba, before terminating at Oyingbo.

* 10 vehicular overpasses and pedestrian bridges, separating train traffic from vehicular and pedestrian flows have been constructed. This will help to ensure the smooth operation of the rail line and safety for commuters.

* The LMRT project is headed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, LAMATA, under the state’s Ministry of Transportation.

* The project aims to alleviate traffic congestion, minimise road accidents, and improve commuter safety within Lagos.

* The Red Line will utilise a diesel-powered system known as Diesel Multiple Unit which employs on-board diesel engines to propel multiple-unit trains.

* The Red Line project is a substantial investment in Lagos’ urban transportation infrastructure. Initial estimates pegged the cost at $135 million under the Greater Lagos Urban Transportation Project, managed by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA).

The Punch/Business Day/Maxwell Oyekunle

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Governance

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Ogun State Governor , Prince Dapo Abiodun has released  One billion naira Gratuity  in fulfilment of his promise to prioritize the welfare of pensioners.

The Permanent Secretary, Bureau of State Pensions, Mr. Adesoji Adewuyi made this known in  Abeokuta.

Mr Adewuyi explained that the fund was released to cater for the state pensions which would be in two batches, with the first batch for pensioners in October 2014 list, as well as the outstanding of Basic, Rent and Transport (BRT) allowance for the month of March, 2013.

Mr Adewuyi stressed that pensioners with urgent medical needs or hospital bills would also be considered from the gratuity.

He added that the second batch of the gratuity would be paid to pensioners who were listed for November 2014, adding that the Basic, Rent and Transport (BRT) allowances for the remaining pensioners in March and April 2013, would equally be taken care of.

Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Governance

By Abimbola Bamgbose

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has promised that the victory at the Supreme Court in Abuja on Friday would mark the beginning of new things in the State.

Governor Abiodun made the promise while addressing newsmen after alighting from a private jet with registration number 5N-FGZ at the Gateway International Airport, Iperu-Remo, Ikenne local government area of the State.

The governor explained that the victory was a testament that with God, everything is possible, having won at the state Governorship Petition Tribunal and Court of Appeal, noting that the judgement has put an end to all sorts of distractions.

The governor who thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting his political career, said that in the next two weeks, the State would start to experience developments.

The governor described the people of the State as partners in progress for standing with him during the trial, assuring them that his administration would improve on the successes recorded during his first tenure.

Also speaking at the Palace of Alaperu of Iperu, Oba Idowu Basibo, Governor Abiodun said he was at the palace to receive royal blessings and to thank the monarch for standing by him since the commencement of the litigation.

Governor Abiodun, promised that the Gateway International Airport, after completion, would attract more development into Iperu-Remo Town and the State in general.

Responding, the Alaperu of Iperu-Remo, Oba Basibo lauded the governor for the level of infrastructural amenities and achievement recorded in the State during his first term in office and promised that he would continue to support his administration.


Lifestyle

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has urged Nigerians not to allow the current economic challenges to dampen their spirits.

Governor Abiodun, in his Christmas message on Sunday, also urged Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of love, peace, and goodwill as they celebrate Christmas.

The governor said the current hardship in the country occasioned by double digit inflation would soon give way as governments at the federal and state levels fashion out ways to ensure economic recovery and improved living condition for Nigerians.

Governor Abiodun praised the perseverance and the never-say-die spirit of Nigerians, even as he called for more support for government.

He, however, urged Christian faithful to always reflect on the true meaning of Christmas which encompasses love, hope, unity and selflessness.

Politics

By Omolara Adasofunjo

Nine prospective commissioners have been screened by the Ogun State House of Assembly, OGHA, with a charge on them to redouble efforts at enhancing the state’s prosperity, if they eventually joined Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.

OGHA Speaker, Mr Olakunle Oluomo who gave the charge also urged the commissioner-nominees to be prepared for the task of helping the government to deploy technology towards addressing human challenges, especially in the areas of insecurity, food deficit, transportation constraints and waste management. 

Mr Oluomo said the state required committed hands with the capacity to tap into its comparative advantage as the Gateway State and industrial hub to create more employment opportunities for the people, particularly, the teeming youths.

In separate responses, the nominees promised to bring their expertise and experiences to bear on the implementation of the development agenda of Governor Dapo Abiodun who nominated them to serve in his cabinet and expressed their readiness to effectively tackle the emerging issues confronting the people.

Nine, out of the governor’s ten nominees that appeared for the screening included former cabinet members, Mrs Adijat Adeleye-Oladapo, Mrs Olufemi Ilori-Oduntan, Mr Oladimeji Oresanya, and Mr Olugbenga Dairo.

Others were Mr Shofela Emmanuel, Mr Bolu Owootomo, Mr Balogun Ademola, Mr Osunbiyi Tunde, and Mr Fagbayi Sesan.

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Economy

By Bolanle Adesida

The Canadian Government has indicated interest in investing in the agricultural and technological sectors of the Ogun State economy as part of efforts to strengthen the Country’s bilateral relationship with Nigeria.

The Canadian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jamie Christoff, who stated this at a meeting with Governor Dapo Abiodun in Abeokuta said his country was also interested in the infrastructural sector.

Ambassador Christoff while emphasizing the numerous investment opportunities in the State said his visit would enhance further discussions with the relevant government representatives on the areas of mutual benefit to both parties.

Responding, Governor Abiodun who explained that his administration had provided needed infrastructure to attract more investors, said plans were on to build a seaport in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area as well as a dry port at Kajola area of the state. 

The Governor who urged the Canadian investors to explore the huge investment opportunities in the State, gave the assurance that his government was ready to ensure a conducive environment for progress.

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Lifestyle

By Bolanle Adesida

Ogun State government has announced plans to set up a committee that will be saddled with the responsibility of giving the departed Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant-General Oladipo Diya a befitting state burial.

Governor Dapo Abiodun who made this known in Ikeja, when he paid a condolence visit to the family of the late military administrator, said the committee would be made up of his cabinet members and representatives of the deceased’s family.

The governor said Lt General Diya lived an impactful and purposeful life, pointing out that the departed leader would be sorely missed by the people. 

Governor Abiodun eulogized the departed military administrator as an illustrious son of Ogun State whose contributions to the development of the state could not be overemphasized.

Responding, the eldest son of the deceased, Prince Oyedamola Diya appreciated the governor for the visit, and the kindness extended to the family.

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Education

Bolanle Adesida

Governor Dapo Abiodun has announced the renaming of Ogun State College of Health Technology, Ilese – Ijebu to Ogun State Polytechnic of Health Sciences and Allied Sciences, Ilese.

Governor Abiodun made this known while addressing students of the institution during a campaign tour of the Ijebu North-East Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor, who promised that the polytechnic would soon have a substantive Rector, said his administration would continue to give priority to education.

He assured the people that rehabilitation works would commence on roads within the institution by next week, pointing out that the Ilese township road which was recently re-awarded by his administration would soon be completed.

The Governor, who also inaugurated the 8 – kilometre Erunwon – Atan Road in the council area as well as another 3.2-kilometer Molipa Expressway in Ijebu-Ode, emphasized that his administration had constructed over 400km of roads in the last three and half years. 

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Politics

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has inaugurated the 18-kilometre Idowa Ibefun Road in the Odogbolu Local Government area of the state, with a promise that his administration would continue to implement policies and programmes that would promote good governance.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, which was part of his campaign tour to the local government, Governor Abiodun also, announced that his administration would inaugurate the Agro Cargo International Airport in Ogun East Senatorial district before May this year.

While explaining that the reconstruction of 18 kilometres of Idowa Ibefun Road would boost socio-economic activities in the area, the governor gave the assurance that his administration would continue to give priority to infrastructural development.

In a remark, the Dagburewe of Idowa, Oba Yinusa Adekoya who commended the present administration in the state for the reconstruction of the road, called on the state government to rehabilitate Ala Idowa General Hospital.

Earlier, the Ogun State Commissioner for Works, Mr Akin Akinsanya explained that the Idowa Ibefun road was reconstructed to meet acceptable standards and make life more comfortable for the people and motorists passing through the axis.

Bolanle Adesida

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