Sport

Gov. Makinde Unveils Remodeled Lekan Salami Sports Complex

By Web News 795

Governor Seyi Makinde has unveiled the remodeled Lekan Salami sports complex, Adamasingba Ibadan.

The roll call at the stadium include, His Excellency, Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, General David Jemibewon Rtd. Former Military Governor of Oyo State, Governor Godwin Obaseki, (Edo State Governor), Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, Former Governors of the State, Senator Raseedi Ladoja, Otunba Alao Akala, Former Head Coach of Shooting Stars Sports Club and Nigerian Super Eagles, Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde among others.

Speaking at the event, Governor Seyi Makinde explained that the project would reduce unemployment by productively engaging the youths through sports.

Speakers at the unveiling ceremony including former Vice president, Atiku Abubakar, governor of Ondo state, Rotimi Akeredolu, ex military administrator, David Jemibewon and former Chief, Adegboye Onigbinde commended governor Makinde led government for the remodeling project.

In a novelty march between Nigeria ex -international player and former 3sc player, Governor Seyi Makinde scored the opening goal against the ex-Super Eagles players in the match held at Lekan Salami Sports Complex.

Governor Makinde was paired along with the ex-3SC FC Stars in a novelty match that was organised for the commissioning purpose of the remodeled Lekan Salami Sports Complex Adamasingba Ibadan.

Governor Makinde scored the first goal in the 5th minute of the game through a penalty kick.

The ex-Super eagle’s line had the likes of Austin Jay Jay Okocha, Victor Ikpeba, Taribo West, Victor Agali, Austin Eguafon, Tijani Babangida, Peter Rufai, Ike Sorunmu, Mutiu Adepoju, Dauda Lawal among others.

Makinde led the ex- 3SC line up with the likes of Kabiru Alausa, Yomi Adigun, Kola Ige, and others.

Governor Makinde’s goal was cancelled out by a penalty awarded to the ex-super eagles and Austin Jay Jay Okocha steped up to slot home in the 15th minutes of the match.

Adebisi Iyabo

Sport

Gov. Makinde Hosts NK Tabor Sežana Players

By Web News 1081

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Wednesday afternoon received players of a Slovenian football club, NK Tabor Sežana.

The club will be playing against Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan at the remodeled Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba later this evening.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to contribute to sports development through various programmes. 

The friendly match between the two clubs which is part of activities lined for the commissioning of the stadium comes up at seven o’clock Wednesday evening.

Olaolu Fawole

Politics

Oyo PDP Hails Makinde Over Lekan Salami Remodeling

By Web News 977

The entire leadership of Oyo State, Peoples Democratic Party, PDP hereby congratulates the state governor and the people of the state on the forthcoming commissioning of the remodeled Lekan Salami Sport Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The commissioning will come up on the 1st of September 2021.

The stadium has become a cynosure for all eyes and it has increased the love for the party and the Oyo State government.

The things that were difficult and seemed impossible has been made very possible by our God-sent governor.

We also want to appreciate the governor for allowing the party join in the commissioning committee and also gave us free tickets for our members to attend the epoch making event.

We will announce the modalities for the PDP members invitation within the next 48 hours.

Thank you very much.

Signed:
Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke
Oyo PDP Secretary

Security

Jos Crisis: Makinde Evacuates Oyo Students from UNIJOS

By Web News 956

Students from the University of Jos, Plateau state who are indigenes and residents of Oyo state have been evacuated by the state government following recent crisis in the state. 

The students numbering about eighty five were evacuated with two luxury buses and conveyed to the Governor’s office to express their appreciation to the governor for the kind gesture. 

President of Odua students, University of Jos, Kolawole Paul who is also an indigene from Oyo state commended the timely intervention of Governor Makinde.

Mr Paul noted that no fatality was recorded involving students of Odua indigene in the recent crises 

Receiving the students, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Segun Ogunwuyi said Governor Makinde led government remained youth friendly and committed to being responsive to the peoples’ well- being whether in the state or outside the state 

It would be recalled that Jos, Plateau state capital had recently witnessed religious and ethnic conflicts resulting in number of deaths of innocent citizens.

Iyabo Adebisi

Transportation

Gov. Makinde Commissions VIP Lounge at Ibadan Airport

By Web News 1055

Oyo state Governor,Engineer Seyi Makinde says his government will always support the upgrade of facilities at the Ibadan airport Alakia till it assume international standard.

He said this during the commissioning of a protocol/VIP lounge at the airport as well as inauguration of an airline operation to the Ibadan airport.

Inaugurating a new airline operation in the state and commissioning of a protocol lounge, Governor Makinde explained that his government would not relent until the airport operate international flights.

The governor added that in a couple of months, the airport would be upgraded with aviation fuel storage and dispensing facilities to enable flight refuel in Ibadan

The Chief Executive Officer of the new airline operator, Mr Allen Onyeama said that Ibadan airport would soon operate flights to Kano, Enugu, Porth Harcourt and other part of the country,

Mr Onyeama commended Oyo state government for the innovation and expressed hope for a united Nigeria irrespective of inequality or violence, stressing that all Nigerians must contribute their quota for unity to prevail

Earlier,the representative of Ibadan airport management, Tega Aiyenuiro appreciated the support of Governor Makinde in upgrading the Ibadan airport and expressed optimism that with fire tender and other facilities in the airport, services have improved significantly

Adebisi Iyabo

Environment

We’re committed to serving the people’s interest – Gov. Makinde

By Web News 632

In upholding his pledge to continue to serve the interests of the people of Oyo State, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has expressed his avowed commitment to the timely completion of the World Bank-backed Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP).

The governor has also appealed to the World Bank not to withdraw its conditional no objection for the Second Pool of Long Term Investments (PLTI2) BERs, and make available funding for the contracts.

The contract was reportedly cancelled over the failure of the state government to conclude the contract award of the successful bidders for the four lots (3A,3B,4A & 4B) under the bank’s international Competitive Bidding Process.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicates that the state also rejected insinuations that the World Bank had withdrawn its commitment to IUFMP due to display of undue interests by the governor.

The commitment of the governor and Oyo State Government “is coming at a time when World Bank, in its correspondence of July 30, 2021, to Governor Makinde, pointed out administrative issues and strengthening of the safeguard team.”

“The Bank, nonetheless, expressed a recognition of Governor Makinde’s unwavering support to the important project.”

The World Bank said it recognised “…Your Excellency’s unwavering support to this important project for the safety and well-being of Ibadan’s citizens.”

The statement noted that while a correspondence from the World Bank, signed by Mr. Shubham Chaudhuri, Country Director, Nigeria, Western and Central Africa Region, had conveyed the determination of the status of its support for the project, the said decision was not as a result of undue interference by Governor Makinde.

“The government of Oyo State remained committed to its letter of undertaking submitted to the Bank in May 2021,” the statement said.

The statement continued: “Already, Governor Makinde’s appeal has been forwarded to the World Bank with six strategic and critical progress milestones comprising Activities, Proactive Steps and Status.”

The statement further quoted the governor as drawing the attention of the World Bank to the “proactive steps already taken and the commitment of the Project (IUFMP) in the last two months,” while the governor also outlined areas of alignment with the observations made by the financial institution.

Indeed, the statement noted that of strategic importance is Governor Makinde’s revalidation of an earlier written undertaking that “the state will continue to fund and complete works post-June 2022 project completion date, should project works at all Lots extend beyond the end date”.

The statement further read: “Contrary to insinuations in some partisan quarters about interests and lack of continuity, only last week, IUFMP awarded dredging of forty-five (45) streams within and around Ibadan metropolis, as part of its palliative measures”. 

“The dredging exercise is ongoing, helping to provide instant relief to residents of flood-prone areas where structural interventions are yet to take place”. 

“Work on the long-term investments is on-going on the channels of Agodi, Kudeti, Ogbere, Orogun, etc. as earlier launched, barring the occasional drawbacks by the inclement weather”.

 “Nowhere in the letter from the World Bank were issues of personal interest or insistence on some contractors mentioned”.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

OYHA Confirms Appointment Of 7 Commissioners

By Web News 772

The Oyo State House of Assembly has confirmed the appointment of all Seven Commissioner nominees forwarded to it by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The confirmation of the Commissioner nominees followed their appearance and the presentation of reports of their Ministries before the State Legislators.

The Commissioners are Mr Akinola Ojo  Ministry of Finance, Prof Oyelowo Oyewo SAN Ministry of Justice, Chief Bayo Lawal Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters and Professor Dawood Kehinde Sangodoyin Ministry of Public Works.

Others are Barr Temilolu Ashamu Ministry of Energy, Mrs Faosat Sanni Ministry of Women Affairs and Alhaji Ayansiju Lawal , Ministry of Establishment and Training.

The Lawmakers took turns to ask questions, seek clarifications and give suggestions to the Commissioner designates on moving their various Ministries forward while the Commissioner designates responded one after the other.

Speaking on behalf of other Commissioners, the Oyo State Commissioner for the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Chief Bayo Lawal assured that more developmental programs will be embarked upon by their various Ministries to further advance the vision of Governor Seyi Makinde. 

The Speaker urged the Commissioners to do more in justifying the confidence reposed in them especially the Governor which led to their reappointment.

Mosope Kehinde

News

Makinde Commiserates With Abiodun Over His Father’s Passing

By Web News 701

Governor ‘Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has commiserated with his Ogun State counterpart, Governor Dapo Abiodun, over the death of his dad, Dr. Emmanuel Abiodun, at the age of 89.

The governor who expressed his heartfelt condolences to his brother-governor and the entire Abiodun family of Iperu Remo, Ogun State, prayed to God to grant the family the fortitude to bear Papa’s exit.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, quotes Governor Makinde as stating that “though the death of one’s loved one is always painful, Pa Abiodun deserved to be celebrated for the good life he lived and the great legacy he left behind”.

He urged Governor Abiodun to take heart and solace in the indelible marks Papa left on earth as a teacher and nation-builder of many decades, and as a devout Christian, who sowed worthy seeds that have continued to bear good fruits in the society.

Iyabo Adebisi

News

Oyo Boosts Water Production With 1,194 Tonnes of Aluminium Sulfate

By Web News 784

The Oyo State government has procured 1,194 metric tonnes of aluminium sulfate at the cost of ₦400million to boost production of portable water in the State.

This was disclosed by the State governor at the second stakeholders engagement on the 2022 budget, organized by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning at Akinyele Local Government Award Hall in Ibadan.

Governor Seyi Makinde who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mrs. Olubamiwo Adeosun in his keynote address, promised the people of the state that he would not renege on his promise to carry out the will of the people for a better society.

He highlighted some major projects that have been approved based on the will of the good people, ranging from construction of two-bay permanent fire stations at Atiba and Ibarapa Central Local Government Areas, the Oyo-Iseyin road reconstruction, the Light Up Oyo project amongst others, adding that N ₦400 million was spent on the purchase of 1,194 metric tonnes of aluminium sulfate to boost the production of potable water in the State.

The governor enjoined the people of the state to speak out their minds on what they want from the current administration, so as to include them in the 2022 budget, as the administration as this has become the policy guide of the government.

“The stakeholder engagement is to gather the array of needs of the people and make them the programmes of government, like we have always been saying, this is a people-centered administration that is focused on making policies, programmes and activities that are driven by the needs of the people.”

“We are communicating directly with the people that put us in power to drive governance and we must do it according to their wish and aspiration, the projects highlighted are in accordance with the demands made by the people and in relation to the available resources, we will continue to do this and we have seen that it is the best form of communicating with the people.”

In her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Physical Planning, Mrs. Mofoluke Adebiyi made it known that the current administration open government’s initiative was aimed at strengthening civic voices and demonstration of responsive government system in order to promote the interest of all citizens, explaining further that the last two years witnessed a tremendous change in the inclusion and participation of citizens in budget development and implementation .

Meanwhile, representatives from different local government areas at the event appreciated what they called the good work of the current administration, while they expressed their demands, especially in the areas of road construction, rehabilitation of moribund companies, improvement of health facilities, improvement of agricultural growth and rehabilitation of security posts.

Dignitaries at the meeting include market men and women, artisans, traditional rulers, youths’ representatives, non-governmental organizations, civil societies, among others.

Signed: Dr. Bunmi Babalola,

Permanent Secretary,

Oyo State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism,

Ibadan.

Saturday, 31st July, 2021.

Politics

No politician behind insecurity in Oyo State – Alao-Akala

By Web News 1606

A former governor of Oyo State, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, says insecurity in the state is not being sponsored by any politician.

He stated this while speaking with Radio Nigeria in his hometown, Ogbomoso.

Otunba Alao-Akala who noted that no politician would ever play politics with insecurity, said Oyo State was only having its share of prevailing insecurity issues facing Nigeria.

The former governor said the Oyo State government had harkened to his previous advice on checking insecurity in the state.

“The security problem in the country is not only in Oyo State. I am not comfortable because part of the state is witnessing unrest, particularly Ibarapa North and Central. They cannot sleep with their eyes closed. I am worried.”

“The other time I advised that there should be an enlarged stakeholders’ security meeting in the state whereby everyone can advise the government on how to go about security challenges. I think he has done that and by doing that he should leave security of each domain to traditional rulers who know people in their own territory.”

“There is no politician who will play politics with security. No politician that wants results will try that. Politics involves all of us, so if I play politics with security, how do you know if it won’t catch up with me. I don’t believe that any politician is behind what is happening in Oyo state.” He said.

Speaking on Eid-el-kabir celebrations, Otunab Alao-Akala urged Nigerians to take the path of God.

The ex-governor said if there was fear of God, all the security challenges in the country would be surmounted. Adedayo Adelowo

Politics

Oyo Assembly Refutes Alleged Secret Plenary to Re approve Makinde’s Loan

By Web News 751

Oyo State House of Assembly has cleared the air on the allegation that the house held a hiding emergency meeting on Friday to re-approve N100billion loan request by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The Assembly said the clarification became imperative in view of insinuations making the rounds on the social media that the lawmakers had approved another loan request at a secret plenary which was attended by only 13 members on Friday.

Chairman, House committee on Information, Mr. Kazeem Olayanju made the clarification while speaking with our correspondent

Mr. Olayanju said contrary to claims, 23 out of the 32 members of the Assembly were in attendance at the emergency plenary.

He said the house had adjourned to July 27, but the time would be too late for the re- approval due to its urgency required.

Mr. Olayanju noted that all the lawmakers were duly informed of the plenary but that due to the fact that the emergency meeting was held on Friday, many lawmakers had travelled out of Ibadan.

He said, an earlier N100billion loan request approved for the Governor to be accessed from the Central Bank of Nigeria could not meet up last year due to delay in tidying up the processes but that the effort of the Governor and his relationship with the CBN authorities made the window to be re-opened.

Mosope Kehinde

Entertainment

Sound Sultan: Oyo State has lost a great talent – Makinde

By Web News 727

Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Sunday, described the death of multi-talented singer, Lanre Fasasi popularly known as Sound Sultan as a huge loss to the state and the entertainment world.

He commiserated with the immediate family of the artiste, the Iseyin community and the entertainment industry on what he described as the demise of a truly great ambassador of Oyo State.

A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the governor, Moses Alao, quoted Makinde as saying that Oyo State lost in Sound Sultan “a humble, unassuming but truly great talent and a shining light who has positively impacted the society with his act.”

According to Makinde, Sound Sultan, left the world at a young age of 44, but he made his mark and left strong messages for the Nigerian society through various songs with thematic preoccupations that centres on politics, commitment and service to fatherland, among others.

He charged youths in the state to borrow a leaf from the pages of Sound Sultan’s book, as according to him, the late singer showed great example on how to manage fame as a young person.

The governor said: “The news of the death of popular singer and producer, Lanre Fasasi popularly known as Sound Sultan, unsettled me greatly”.

“From afar, Sound Sultan cuts the figure of a well-bred young man, who achieved stardom by dint of hardwork and managed to remain relevant without falling to the entrapments of fame and youthful exuberance.

“In him, Oyo State lost a truly great but humble artiste and ambassador. We lost an individual who tried his best to positively impact on his society through entertainment.”

“I commiserate with the family of Sound Sultan, the good people of Iseyinland, all residents of Oyo State and players in the entertainment industry.”

“I pray to God to grant everyone related to him the fortitude to bear the loss.”

Signed
Moses Alao, Special Assistant (Print Media) to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde
July 11, 2021.

Health

Delta Variant: Oyo COVID-19 Task Force Warns Residents To Take Extra Precautions

By Web News 667

Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force has uncovered the Delta variant of the COVID-19 in the State.

The Incident Manager and coordinator of the Energency Operations Centre, Dr. Olabode Ladipo, who confirmed the development, said that the general public is notified of the need to take extra caution and consistently apply all adversories earlier released by the Task Force.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, on behalf of the Task Force, indicated that the Task Force “wishes to notify the general public of the isolation of the Delta variant of the COVID-19 virus in the stat e.”

The statement read: “This strain has been associated with high transmission, increase severity of infection and outcomes.
“As such, this is to warn that the virus is still very much within the society.”

It warned residents of the state to continue to comply with all advisories aimed at curtailing the spread of COVID-19.

The statement also asked all in-bound travellers to always isolate for seven days and submit themselves for tests.

It further read: “The ‘Own Your Action’ (OYA) initiative of the State Government should be seriously considered by adhering to the guidelines of wearing nose and mouth masks in public gatherings, washing of hands with soap and water and use of hand sanitisers, among others.

“The Oyo State COVID-19 Task Force hereby appeals to the good people of Oyo State to comply with these and other advisories as they apply to individuals and organisations.

“It would be appreciated if all in-bound travelers from overseas maintain the mandatory seven-day isolation and subsequent testing before mingling with the populace.”

“In addition, residents are enjoined to seek medical care and avail the opportunity of free testing whenever there’s any feeling of unwellness.

“Vigilance on the parts of both the Government and the people will surely go a long way in stemming the transmission of this disease within the state.”

Signed
Taiwo Adisa
Chief Press Secretary to Governor ‘Seyi Makinde
July 11, 2021.

Religion

Oyo Muslims Urge Makinde To Be Fair In Constituting New Cabinet

By Web News 648

Muslim Community of Oyo State has advised Governor Seyi Makinde  to ensure justice and fairness in the constitution of his new cabinet.
This is contained in a statement in Ibadan  by the  Chairman, Alhaji  Kunle Sanni, and Secretary, Alhaji Murisiku Siyanbade.
The group noted that justice, fairness and equity in the appointment of the new cabinet by the governor are necessary so as not to deny Muslims their rights.
The Muslim  Community decried the recently dissolved cabinet in which it claimed Governor Makinde appointed less number of Muslims.
The group however enjoined the Governor to avoid such lopsided appointments in his yet to be constituted new cabinet in order to promote peace and harmony in the state.
While confirming that the governor has the right to fire and hire, the Muslim community said the state’s helmsman will not lose anything if he uses his appointment to promote religious harmony in the state.
The group assured  Governor Makinde of the support of the Muslims in the state, in as much as he ensures religious justice in all spheres of governance.
Ridwan Fasasi

Security

Igboho’s Supporters Storm State Secretariat, Demand Freedom Of Arrested Colleagues

By Web News 633

Yoruba Nation agitators have protested to Agodi Secretariat Ibadan to declare support for Sunday Adeyemo popularly known as Igboho whose house was recently invaded by men of the Department of State Security Service, DSS.

The protesters in their hundreds who were on a peaceful protest were received on behalf of the State Government by the Executive Assistant to Governor Makinde on Security Matters, Mr. Sunday Odukoya.

Speaking with journalists shortly after their departure, Mr Odukoya said the agitators were part of the Oduduwa nation agitators groups who demanded the release of those arrested in Igboho’s house within seven days.

Mr. Odukoya added that they also demanded for justice of the two people that were killed during the DSS’ raid on Igboho’s house.

The Executive Assiatant urged the agitators to maintain peace saying there was no good thing about rascality, hooliganism and asked the agitators to put their demands in writing for necessary actions.

The protesters were seen with various placards requesting the release of those arrested at Igboho’s house.

They were also shouting Sunday Igboho is not a criminal, and should not be treated as such.

The protesters had earlier visited the Palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, to seek his interventions in facilitating the release of some of the agitators arrested during the DSS raid on Sunday Adeyemo, Igboho’s residence.

Radio Nigeria reports that the protest caused a gridlock around the Secretariat-UCH-Bodija axis as they arrived during the closing hours of workers.

The entrance gates to the Oyo State Secretariat were locked and manned with heavy presence of security operatives to forestall the breakdown of law and order.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Oyo Govt. To Begin Registration Of Residents

By Web News 1409

Oyo State government has approved a residents’ registration programme to capture, enumerate and create verifiable data base for residents in the state to assist government in effective planning and for security concerns. 

The Special Assistant to the Governor on ICT/e-Governance, Mr. Bayo Akande, stated this while briefing journalists after the state executive council meeting.

Mr Akande who explained that generating credible data for planning has been a challenge across the country said the current administration in Oyo state has effectively employed data and scientific processes in planning and decision-taking.

He assured that the registration programme would be comprehensive and devoid of bottlenecks.

The Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akinola Ojo, also hinted that Governor Seyi Makinde has flagged-off payment for the land use charges.

Mr Ojo implored property owners in the state who had received bills for land use charges to comply in payment as it would help in expanding the state economy.

Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Oyelowo Oyewo equally disclosed the approval of three bills which were an audit bill to ensure transparency and accountability through the office of the Auditor General.

They are an audit bill to ensure transparency and accountability through the office of the auditor general, a bill prohibiting the collection of personal income tax by consultant and a bill to convert Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology from a monotechnic to a polytechnic, for transmission to the Oyo State House of Assembly.

In the same vein, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said the approval has been given for the relocation and establishment of the College of Agriculture and Renewable Natural Resources, LAUTECH to Iseyin with a takeoff grant.

Iyabo Adebisi

Agriculture

Oyo, French Government Collaborate On Food Security

By Web News 670

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has expressed happiness over the inclusion of 1,300 women in the state, who are to benefit from the Support to Women Entrepreneurship in the Agri-food sector in Nigeria SEFAN/SWEAN programme. 

The governor, while speaking at the official launch of the training programme at International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA, Ibadan stated that the relationship between Oyo State and the French Government always brings about development.

Engineer Makinde equally appreciated the French Government for its part in the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), noting that the state has mapped out the roads that would get the interventions.

He maintained that the plan of the government is to complete 200km of access roads in Oyo State before the end of 2021 remained on course. 

Governor Makinde maintained that the relationship between the state and the French Government has been bringing about development, especially in the area of collaboration in the agriculture sector.

The governor asked for more interventions for the state, pledging that any investment made in the state would go directly to the people just as he noted that the state government’s collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA, on the Start Them Early Program (STEP has begun to yield positive results.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr Jacob Ojemuyiwa, said Oyo and Kaduna States are the only two states selected for the SEFAN/SWEAN programme, which he described as a great opportunity for women.

Iyabo Adebisi

News Politics

2nd Anniversary: Restructuring is paramount – OYHA

By Web News 600

The Oyo State House of Assembly has celebrated its 2nd Anniversary with a call to the Federal Government to begin the process of restructuring the country.

The Anniversary was marked with a special plenary session which was attended by the Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde and other political functionaries and dignitaries.

In his Anniversary remark , the Speaker, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin said with the various challenges confronting the nation, there could not have been a more better time than now for the nation to hearken to the call for  restructuring of the country.

He added that the restructuring should commence with the review of the 1999 Constitution. 

According to him, some items on the Exclusive Legislative List should moved to the Concurrent Legislative List.

” There’s too much concentration of power at the Center. As a House we are saying that some items in the Exclusive Legislative List like , Item 2 (Arms, Ammunition and Explosives), Item 3 (Aviation), Item 39 (Mines and Minerals), Item 45 (Police and other security Agencies), Item 55 (Railways), and Item 63 (Traffic on Federal Trunk Roads) should be moved to Concurrent and Residual Legislative Lists.

” I believe if restructuring is done, States and Local Government will have the power to effectively manage their internal security using State and Local Police. This means each State will be able to tackle its security challenges headlong. I want to stress that most of the items on the Exclusive Legislative List would be more efficiently managed at the State and Local levels, he said.

While highlighting the achievements of the 9th Oyo State House of Assembly in the last two years, Mr Ogundoyin said it had passed a total of 56 bills , and made 83 resolutions.

This , he maintained was aside from the various oversight functions carried out by the Lawmakers. 

He equally acknowledged the support the Governor has been given to the Oyo State House of Assembly, noting that ,the harmonious working relationship that existed between the Executive, Legislature , and the Judiciary in the State was second to none.

The Lawmakers in their comments at the plenary commended the Oyo State Governor for his numerous development projects embarked upon by his administration.

Mosope Kehinde

Sport

Oyo Govt Set To Inaugurate Adamisingba Stadium

By Web News 1951

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says the newly reconstructed Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan will be inaugurated next month. 

Governor Makinde gave the hint while giving his account of stewardship at the Oyo state house of assembly in commemoration of the 9th Assembly Second Year Anniversary.

He disclosed that the Adamasingba Stadium would be commissioned with football display by the Shooting Stars football club for them to get the first feel of the turf. 

While reeling out his achievements in the past two years, Governor Makinde said he has made remarkable feat in the health, education, agriculture, infrastructure and the sports sectors within few years.

 Reacting to the recent attack in Igangan, Governor Makinde reiterated his commitment to proffering permanent solution that will halt recurrence of such attack. 

Speaker of the house, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin who commended his colleagues for their unrelenting commitment at making a new Oyo State said 56 bills into law and 83 resolution made.

Mosope Kehinde

Economy

Oyo State Resuscitates Ilaju Garri Processing Factory In Ido

By Web News 1287

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says, his administration would continue to resuscitate moribund industries in the state and create value for the people from such assets.
He stated this while commissioning the rehabilitated/refurbished Ilaju Garri Processing Factory in Ilaju community of Ido Local Government Area.
Governor Makinde equally supported members of the Cooperative Society with Seven Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira as take-off grant.
Governor Makinde maintained that as part of his administration’s commitment to fixing infrastructure that target the economic expansion drive of the state, the government has included the Eruwa road in the RAAMP projects.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, Mr Adeniyi Adebisi, appreciated Governor Makinde’s support and policy thrust aimed at rejuvenating the economy of the state using agriculture as a tool.

He added that Governor Makinde’s style of administration in the state has transformed the process of transacting government businesses and activities from analogue to digital, as it operates in the developed world of today. 
Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo  initiated the operation of the Ilaju actory. 

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

Igangan Killings: Makinde Promises End to Incessant Attacks

By Web News 653

Oyo state governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has assured the people of Igangan community in Ibarapa North area of the state of the commitment of his administration in putting an end to violence and attacks by gunmen in the area.

Governor Makinde gave the assurance to the residents when he paid an assessment tour to the area.

The governor who took responsibility for the incident maintained that he would do everything within his powers to stop maiming of people in the area.

He appealed to those who lost their relatives to the ugly incident to give government the opportunity to put necessary measures in place to enable people to go about their normal activities without fear.

Governor Makinde explained that the light up project embarked upon by the present government was to improve the security of the state.

It would be recalled that gunmen invaded Igangan community at midnight on Saturday 5th June, 2021,killed many people and burnt houses including the palace of Asigangan of Igangan.

Iyabo Adebisi

Politics

Governor Makinde Reacts To FG’s Suspension Of Twitter’s Operations

By Web News 571

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged the Federal government to reverse its suspension of popular social media platform, Twitter’s operations in Nigeria.

Governor Makinde who made the appeal posted via his twitter handle, noted that a lot of Nigerian youths, businesses and digital communication companies would be negatively affected by the suspension.

Governor Seyi Makinde’s statement in full

It has become imperative for me to release a statement regarding the suspension of Twitter’s operations in Nigeria by the Federal Government.

As leaders, we should go beyond emotional reactions to issues and think about how our actions will affect the people we lead and our international ratings socially and economically. 

Twitter has become the platform for young people and indeed all Nigerians to exercise their fundamental right to express and publish an opinion. They use the platform to complain, argue and give feedback to government and its agencies who in turn, use these to improve policies.

This is a fundamental point that should be kept in mind as we debate the necessity of this suspension.

We should also remember that Twitter has gone beyond a source of communication for many of our hardworking youths in Nigeria.

It has become a source of livelihood for many, irrespective of their political affiliations or religious leanings.

Nigerian youths and digital communications organisations earn a living from being able to use the platform to post communications on behalf of their clients.

Others who may not have physical stores also rely on Twitter to give visibility to their products and services.

Furthermore, I believe the Federal Government should be actively interested in how certain policies and action will affect investor confidence.

I, therefore, use this medium to appeal to the Federal Government to reverse this suspension for the greater good of Nigerians.

Seyi Makinde

Education

Makinde Announces 25% Tuition Fee Reduction For LAUTECH

By Web News 908

…commissions LAUTECHTH’s High Dependency Unit

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has announced a 25 per cent reduction in the tuition fees payable by students of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH.

He made the announcement during an unscheduled visit to the institution in Ogbomoso, noting that that the reduction would cut across all students irrespective of their statuses.

Governor Makinde also stated that he was happy to fulfill the promise of securing the sole ownership of LAUTECH for Oyo State.

The governor said: “I am glad to be back among you. After the 2019 election, I should have returned to say thank you to you but I didn’t want to come until I fulfill what I promised you, which is the sole ownership of LAUTECH by Oyo State.” 

“I am still coming back to spend the night here and we will really celebrate then but I can leave you with a parting gift for today. Let me tell you, the LAUTECH fee is still the lowest in the entire South-West. Having said that, I will reduce your fee across board; whether indigenes or non-indigenes, even new students. There will be a reduction of 25 per cent across board.”

The governor explained that part of his electioneering campaign was to fix Under-G/Stadium road with street light so as to prevent students from being molested, robbed and killed by miscreants.

He added that the road has been completed and is now being used by residents and students.

The governor, who equally spoke at the commissioning of the High Dependency Unit of the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, said that his administration would construct a befitting flyover in Ogbomoso.

He also reassured the re-engaged 170 staff of the Teaching Hospital who were relieved of their employment by the previous administration that the current government would pay their five months salary arrears.

Iyabo Adebisi

Education

Makinde Introduces STEP Initiative In Secondary Schools

By Web News 858

As part of activities marking his second year in office, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has commissioned a Start Them Early Program (STEP) Agric Initiative Project and some blocks of classrooms in some public schools in Ibadan. 

Commissioning the project, at the Methodist High School, and a model school building at the Muslim Grammar School, Odinjo, in Ibadan, Governor Makinde reaffirmed the commitment of his government to create an integrated approach to governance that would engage younger minds in agri-business.

The Start Them Early Programme is an agric initiative to engage youths and young minds on agri-business in partnership and with technical support from the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA.

Governor Makinde explained that STEP project would not only engage young minds in agriculture but would create a new set of interested vibrant minds who would contribute in ensuring food sufficiency in the state.

The governor promised to extend the project to six more public schools across the state.

  • From left, Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr Nureni Adeniran; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Debo Ogundoyin; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun and Commissioner for Education, Barr Olasunkanmi Olaleye during the Commissioning of a Model School Building, Distribution of Science Equipment Materials and Students’ Furniture at Moslem Grammar School, Odinjo, Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo State Government.
  • Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde (middle); his deputy, Engr Rauf Olaniyan (second left); Director General, International Institute Tropical Agriculture (lITA), Dr Nteranya Sanginga (right) and others during Commissioning of STEP-Oyo Project School at Methodist High School, Ibadan. PHOTO: Oyo State Government.

Earlier, the chairman of the state Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi noted that the edifice was valued at over 137 million naira and would significantly create a conducive learning environment for the benefiting school. 

Governor Seyi Makinde has equally commissioned a newly upgraded and equipped government staff clinic at the Secretariat with nine new buses for civil and public servants. 

The governor emphasized that the health facility and cervical screening centre was to promote inclusive health care services while the bus would reduce congestion as well as save cost of transport for civil servants which invariably would promote optimal performance in the service.

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Mrs Olubanwo Adeosun urged civil servant to replicate the gesture by being committed to their duties.

Iyabo Adebisi

Education

Education Remains Best Legacy For Younger Generation – Governor Makinde

By Web News 619

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state says his administration considers education as one of the cardinal agenda that government at all levels must give to this generation for prosperity.

He stated this at the 17th convocation ceremony of the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan.
Governor Makinde who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government,Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun explained that his administration’s poise for education has accounted for the huge investment in the education sector.
Earlier, the Provost of the institution, Muritala Ayansiji noted that through Governor Makinde’s political will and huge financial commitment, the college had secured accreditation for some courses to the existing ones.
The event had in attendance Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello and Commissioner for Education Science and Technology, Mr Olasunkanmi Olaleye.
Iyabo Adebisi