Politics

INEC Deploys IVED Machines Across Oyo

By Web News 292

By Mosope Kehinde

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised the alarm over the staggering number of uncollected Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs in Oyo State, warning that the development threatens democratic participation

.Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state, Professor Adeniran Tella, disclosed that no fewer than 515,254 PVCs remain unclaimed across Oyo State, describing the figure as deeply concerning.

Prof. Tella made the disclosure in Oyo town during a Voter Education and Enlightenment Programme organised as part of the sensitisation campaign for the ongoing second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.

Breaking down the figures, he revealed that 44,742 PVCs remain uncollected in four local government areas within Oyo Zone alone.

Atiba leads with 16,528 cards, followed by Oyo East with 11,599, Oyo West with 9,305, and Afijio with 7,310—representing 8.7 per cent of the total uncollected PVCs in the state.

To tackle accessibility challenges, Prof. Tella announced that INEC has deployed and commenced the rotation of its Voter Enrolment Device (IVED) machines across all 351 registration areas in Oyo State.

He said the machines began operation on February 9 and will run for 50 days, operating daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding weekends and public holidays, before suspension on April 10, 2026.

The REC explained that the CVR exercise targets Nigerians who have just turned 18, those who have never registered, individuals seeking transfer of voting location, and citizens with lost or damaged PVCs.

While urging eligible residents to take advantage of the exercise, Prof. Tella stressed that registration alone is not enough without collecting the PVC, which remains the ultimate instrument for exercising the right to vote.

Traditional rulers, community leaders, artisans, traders, religious leaders, youth and women groups, security agencies, and political stakeholders attended the event, which focused on mobilising citizens to play their part in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Politics

Ex-Lawmaker Calls for Mass E-registration in Oyo

By Web News 313

By Olawale Asake

Director, Public Affairs and Family Assistance, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB, Hon. Bimbo Olawumi Oladeji has called on members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, supporters, and democrats in Oyo State to participate actively in the ongoing nationwide E-Membership Registration and Revalidation Exercise of the party.

Hon. Oladeji who made the call in a statement issued in Ogbomoso, maintained that, the exercise is being conducted across all the 36 States of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, as politics they say, is a game of numbers. 

According to her, the ongoing electronic registration and re-validation exercise is one of the major milestones in the efforts of the APC to strengthen its internal structures and cohesion through adoption of a modern, secure, and transparent digital membership system designed to update its membership database. 

“Our Party membership registration is opened to all Nigerians who have attained the age of 18 years and above, and must also possess a valid National Identification Number, NIN.” the statement adds. 

Hon. Oladeji who is a grassroots mobiliser, further reaffirmed the party’s commitment to grassroots mobilisation and development, noting that the electronic membership drive would enhance proper coordination of all members at the Ward, Local Government, State, and National levels. 

“I  particularly urge all members and supporters of APC in Ogbomosoland and Oyo State as a whole to kindly make use of this golden opportunity and actively participate in the growth of the Party, which will thereby add to the numerical strength of our great Party, APC”. Hon Oladeji said. 

The Ogbomoso-born Politician, however, expressed confidence in the leadership of the Party under the National Leader whom she addressed as National Reformer, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Oyo State Leaders of APC led by the State Chairman, Alhaji Olayide Abas.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

News

Oyo Speaker Plans to Tackle House Agents’ Extortion

By Web News 219

By Mosope Kehinde

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth development and governance while announcing plans to tackle the growing menace of extortion by house agents in the state.  

Mr. Ogundoyin made this known at a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, under the leadership of its Chairman, Mr. Adebowale Falana. 

During the interactive session, several youths raised concerns about the alarming rate of extortion by house agents in Oyo State. 

They lamented the exploitative practices that have made access to housing increasingly difficult for residents.  

In response, Mr. Ogundoyin announced that the Oyo State House of Assembly would come up with a committee that would draft a bill to regulate the activities of house agents and curb their excesses. 

He said it was time the excessive activities of the various house agents were stopped, assuring all stakeholders that the proposed legislation would be completed and presented to Governor Seyi Makinde for assent before the end of the first quarter of the year.  

“This bill will demonstrate how serious the leadership of the House is in addressing the menace of extortion by house agents. It will help protect residents from exploitation and restore sanity to the housing sector in Oyo State. The move will no doubt bring relief to residents who have long decried the unregulated practices of house agents.”

Addressing the gathering, the Speaker emphasized his role as a representative of young people in governance, describing himself as the voice of the Youth Parliament. 

He called for deliberate investment in modern skill acquisition centers that would equip youths with relevant skills to thrive in today’s competitive and challenging world.  

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

News

Bodija Explosion 2nd Anniversary : Ibadan Residents Call for Compassion

By Web News 236

By Abisola Oluremi

Residents of Bodija Ibadan, Oyo State, have called for government’s intervention, on the devastating explosion that claimed lives and properties two years ago. 

They made the appeal at an interdenominational remembrance service held at All Souls’ Church, Old Bodija, Ibadan, to mark the second anniversary of the tragic incident. 

The remembrance service organised by the Bodija Estate Residents’ Association, BERA, in collaboration with the Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group, was attended by residents, religious and community leaders, as well as government representatives.

Speaking at the service, the President of BERA, Pastor Muyiwa Bamgbose who said, many affected families were yet to receive support for their houses due to financial constraints, called for calm amongst the residents. 

Pastor Bamgbose urged the government to prioritise their welfare, and focus on those who were still suffering from the impact of the disaster.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

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News

Makinde Compesates Families of Deceased Guards of Old Oyo National Park

By Web News 260

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde has announced a compensation of N5 Million each to the families of Forest Guards killed recently at the Old Oyo National Park.

The governor also awarded scholarship up to the university level to children of the deceased guards.

Governor Makinde made these known when he paid an on-the-spot assessment to the scene of the incident at Oloka Village, Oriire Local Government Area, Ogbomoso.

He also promised to rehabilitate the road leading to the Oloka community from Ikoyi-Ile under the Rural Access and Agricultural Market Project, RAAMP, for easy movement, ensure improved telecommunication service and also install boreholes as well as solar powered street lights in the community.

The governor also said the state would put up a sustainable joint security effort for the people of the community.

Governor Makinde, who commiserated with people of the community and the affected families, assured residents of the state that his administration would intensify efforts in strengthening the security architecture of the state and make life easy for them in the community.

He also said that he would write a letter to the military authorities in Abuja, requesting the establishment of a military base in Oloka to further strengthen security in the community.

He noted that, security should be seen as a collective responsibility and not the business of government alone, urging the residents of the state to always tip off the government and the security agencies when they notice any suspicious activity in their communities.

The governor commended the service commanders for their support, dedication and commitment to securing lives and properties of the people, and  later led the people to observe a minute silence as a mark of respect for the deceased.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on Security, CP Fatai Owoseni, rtd, hinted that three key suspects involved in the killing of the five National Forest Guards had been arrested and currently undergoing further investigation.

He commended the governor for his dedication and support to the security operatives in the state, assuring him that the security agencies would not relent in ensuring the security of lives and properties in the state.

Edited by Taiwo Akinola

Senator Teslim Folarin, at the Ona-Ara/Egbeda LG Renewed Hope Ambassadors Tour
Politics

Folarin Urges Massive Voter Registration Ahead 2027

By Web News 224

By Olawale Asake

Former Senate Leader, Senator Teslim Folarin, has urged eligible voters across Oyo State to actively participate in the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, describing it as the foundation of democratic participation ahead of the 2027 general election.

Speaking during an event on his tour of the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency, Senator Folarin said massive voter registration would position Oyo State to significantly improve its 2023 electoral performance for President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

He emphasized that an expanded voter base would deepen democratic legitimacy and guarantee a clearer, more authentic expression of the people’s will at the polls.

The APC chieftain noted that Oyo State occupies a strategic place in national electoral calculations, stressing that coordinated grassroots mobilisation could enable the state to deliver record-breaking results in the South-West and across Nigeria.

Senator Folarin specifically called on youths, newly eligible voters who have just turned eighteen, and residents yet to update their voter records to act swiftly within the registration window.

He described voter registration as both a civic duty and a decisive step toward consolidating Nigeria’s democratic gains.

Reaffirming his commitment to unity of purpose and active citizen engagement, Senator Folarin said sustained participation would ensure the South-West emerges as a formidable and decisive voting bloc on Nigeria’s democratic path to 2027.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Religion

Christmas Services Witness Sparse Attendance in Ibadan

By Web News 308

By Moyinoluwa Afolabi / Olalekan Olayiwola / Bunmi Agboola / Jeffrey Ahonmisi / Fasilat Lawal / Rotimi Famakin

A low turnout of worshippers was recorded across several churches in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, as Christians celebrated Christmas to mark the birth of Jesus Christ.

Correspondents who monitored churches across the Ibadan metropolis observed that some churches, which had earlier held carol services, were not opened on Christmas Day.

Many churches visited were either sparsely filled or completely shut.

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In churches where services were held, Christmas-themed songs reflecting the spirit of the season were rendered.

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At Saint John’s Anglican Church, Igbo-Oloyin, and the World Reconciliation Bible Church, Okefunfun, in Akinyele Local Government Area, worshippers were few, while sermons focused on the significance of Christ’s birth.

A similar situation was observed at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Agodi, Ibadan, where the Bishop, The Right Reverend Simeon Onaleke, urged Nigerians to live in peace regardless of religion or ethnicity.

Bishop Onaleke called for amicable resolution of conflicts threatening national peace.

In a sermon titled “Peace on Earth,” he urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise the protection of lives and property.

He also advised the government to address citizens’ hardships and penalise perpetrators of violence.

The Senior Pastor, Light House Christians International Centre, Samonda, Reverend Yemi Aduloju, said genuine love, if embraced by leaders and citizens, would resolve Nigeria’s challenges.

At the Potters’ House Baptist Church, Alase, Moniya, the Pastor-in-Charge, Reverend Dr Taiwo Akintola, said Jesus Christ came for the salvation of humanity.

Dr Akintola urged Christians to avoid sin, warning that it attracts divine wrath.

Christmas hymns filled the atmosphere at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Oluyole, and the Ojoo District of the Gospel Faith Mission International, Ibadan.

In an interview, the District Pastor, Gospel Faith Mission International, Dr Michael Abioye, called on government to improve security and infrastructure.

The Priest-in-Charge, St. Mary’s Anglican Church, The Venerable Yemi Alade, urged Christians to live by Christ’s teachings of love, humility and selfless service.

He also called on governments at all levels to fullfil campaign promises, stressing that good governance is vital to national development.

The Venerable Alade admonished political leaders to remain humble and prioritize policies that uplift the less privileged.

Some worshippers attributed the low turnout to residents traveling to their hometowns for the yuletide holidays.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle & Taiwo Akinola

Religion

Be vigilant as you go about merrying – Gov. Makinde Advises Residents

By Web News 216

By Iyabo Adebisi

Living in love, harmony, and with high sense of security are part of the responsibilities of the government and the governed, as we celebrate the yuletide.

This is the heart of Governor Seyi Makinde to the people of Oyo State.

According to Governor Makinde, Christmas is a season of love, with Christ’s birth as the essence of the festival, thus Christians must show love to others and live at peace in line with the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ.

He counseled residents of the state to pay close attention to their environment as they go about celebrating the yuletide.

The Governor enjoined them to report suspicious movements to security agencies through the Citizen Emergency Number, 615, saying that the principle, “if you see something, say something” remains in force”.

“This is to wish our Christian brethren and, indeed, all residents of Oyo State and Nigeria a Merry Christmas’’.

“Christmas, as we all know, symbolises love as exemplified by the miraculous but humble birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, thus we must live the message and the essence of the festival’’.

“Let me also use the opportunity to charge residents of the state to be vigilant and observant as they go about merrying. As a government, we have been up to the task in terms of securing the state but there is still a role for residents to play. This is why we always say that if you see something, say something and your government will do something.“

“The Oyo State Citizen Emergency Number 615 is active, please call to report any emergency or suspicion of criminality and our rapid response system will be activated to bring the situation under check.”

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Security

Oyo NSCDC Rolls Out Yuletide Security Plan

By Web News 264

By Abisola Oluremi

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Oyo State Command has deployed 1,500 personnel to strategic locations across the state to guarantee safety during and after the Yuletide celebrations.

The State Commandant, Mr Augustine Padonu, approved the deployment and told Radio Nigeria that the security arrangement covers the pre-festive build-up, the peak celebration period, and the post-festive phase.

He said the operation focuses on proactive policing, intelligence gathering, and rapid response to any security threat.

Mr Padonu disclosed that the command has intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance, and patrols around critical national assets and infrastructure ahead of the festivities.

He listed worship centres, markets, motor parks, recreational centres, and other public places as key areas under heightened security watch.

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

The Commandant added that the NSCDC has strengthened community engagement and public sensitisation to encourage residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious.

He noted that during the Yuletide celebrations, operatives will maintain round-the-clock presence at designated locations to ensure public safety.

The NSCDC Oyo State Command has urged residents to celebrate responsibly, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Health

Renewed Hope Initiative Supports Oyo Senior Citizens

By Web News 296

By Oluseyi Olarinde 

Two hundred and fifty elderly persons across Oyo State have benefited from the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Social Investment Programme for senior citizens.

The beneficiaries, who underwent free medical checks conducted by health professionals, each received 200,000 naira under the Elderly Support Scheme.

Speaking at the programme, a medical practitioner and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr Akintunde Ayeni, advised the elderly to adopt healthy lifestyles to cope with challenges associated with ageing, including loneliness, poverty, and ill health.

Dr Ayeni urged them to eat balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables, monitor their health regularly, and seek medical attention promptly.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, appreciated the elders for their immense contributions to the development of society and the nation, assuring them of continued government support.

Delivering the message of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the wife of the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Mrs Ajibola Lawal, said the RHI programme targeted 250 vulnerable elders in each state of the federation, amounting to 9,500 beneficiaries nationwide aged 65 years and above.

She explained that the programme, themed “Finding Joy in Old Age,” was designed to put smiles on the faces of senior citizens and improve their overall well-being.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr Chris Dike, expressed gratitude to Senator Oluremi Tinubu for the gesture, describing the support as timely and impactful.

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Lifestyle

Tinubu Launches Fresh ₦1.9 billion Disability Empowerment

By Web News 307

By ‎Oluseyi Olarinde

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has unveiled a new round of financial empowerment for persons with disabilities, PWDs, in Oyo State under the nationwide Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Economic Empowerment Programme, held to mark the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The event, held at the Local Government Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan, took place simultaneously across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

A total of 250 persons with disabilities in Oyo State received ₦200,000 each as business recapitalization grants, while the state also received a ₦50 million support fund for wider distribution within its disability community.

Represented in Ibadan by the wife of the Oyo State governor, Chief Tamunominini Makinde, Senator Tinubu said the initiative demonstrated the government’s commitment to building an economy that gives every Nigerian a sense of belonging.

“Our nation grows stronger when every individual is empowered to contribute meaningfully,” she said.

She announced that 9,500 persons with disabilities nationwide would receive a total of ₦1.9 billion, describing it as one of the largest empowerment interventions targeted at Nigerians with disabilities.

Quoting American disability rights advocate Helen Keller, she added, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. A truly inclusive society is built when we stand together and create opportunities that empower everyone to contribute their unique gifts.”

Senator Tinubu emphasised that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises inclusive growth, social protection, and sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable Nigerians.

She highlighted earlier RHI interventions, noting that more than 100,000 petty traders and small business owners, including persons with disabilities, had received direct cash grants over the past two years.

“Our Social Investment Programmes have supported victims of floods, communal clashes, disasters, the elderly, widows, and orphans of our fallen heroes,” she said. “Through our Monthly Food Outreach Scheme, food items have been delivered to 22 states and the FCT. We remain committed to doing even more.”

She further announced that the RHI Governing Board had approved that the Economic Empowerment Programme for Persons with Disabilities will now hold annually on December 3.

Senator Tinubu also expressed appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde and his wife, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, for their continued support for disability inclusion.

In his welcome address, Director-General of the Oyo State Agency for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Ayodele Adekanmbi, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to inclusive governance.

“Today reminds us that disability is not inability. Every individual, regardless of physical or cognitive differences, possesses immense value,” he said.

He noted that the state maintains a deliberate quota system across education, health, employment, infrastructure, and social welfare to prevent the marginalisation of persons with disabilities.

“The Agency for Persons with Disabilities remains a hub for policy implementation, empowerment, and advocacy. Our goal is a state where every person can thrive without barriers,” Mr. Adekanmbi added.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Kayode Lawal thanked the First Lady and the government for the support, promising that recipients would use the funds responsibly to grow their businesses and improve their livelihoods.

Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle

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Governance

Oyo Begins Use of Poverty Indicators to Expand Social Register

By Web News 262

By Nafiu Busari

The Oyo State Government has begun the pilot phase of using Multidimensional Poverty Indicators to expand the state’s Social Register under the EU-funded SUSI Project implemented with the International Labour Organization (ILO) and UNICEF.

Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Professor Musbau Babatunde, announced this while opening a State Technical Consultation Meeting with Ministries, Departments and Agencies and the Social Protection Technical Working Group.

Professor Babatunde said the meeting aims to strengthen coordination and improve the delivery of social protection programmes targeted at poor and vulnerable households.

He stressed that social protection is multidimensional and requires strong collaboration among all MDAs to ensure inclusiveness and sustainability.

He added that poverty-measurement criteria, budget allocation for the poor, and equitable resource distribution must be clearly defined and applied across all sectors.

The commissioner said Oyo State’s inclusion in the EU-SUSI Project represents another milestone in Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to sustainable development and human capital growth.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to data-driven, transparent social protection initiatives that “leave no one behind.”

Earlier, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Tunde Ayanleke, thanked UNICEF for its continuous support and commended Governor Makinde for approving a household survey that will strengthen data-driven planning and policy implementation.

State Coordinator of the Oyo State Operation Coordinating Unit (OYOSOCU), Mr Ismail Salami, said poverty in Nigeria should not be measured solely by monetary indicators.

He explained that the meeting was convened to agree on additional indicators that will make poverty measurement in Oyo State more accurate and inclusive.

Mr Salami said the programme aims to create a shock-responsive register that improves preparedness for future social and economic challenges.

He noted that the pilot phase is being implemented in four states — Oyo, Abia, Benue, and Sokoto — with ten local government areas selected in Oyo State.

Social Policy and Programme Manager at UNICEF Lagos Office, Mr Muhammad Okorie, said the European Union is the main sponsor of the Sustainable Social Protection Programme implemented through UNICEF in the four states.

He added that Oyo State is pioneering a new approach to social protection using Multidimensional Poverty Indicators for more targeted interventions.

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Infrastructure

Ibadan Property Owners Protest against Proposed Road Expansion

By Web News 541

By Iyabo Adebisi

Some property owners from six local government areas of Ibadan on Tuesday, staged a peaceful protest at the Oyo State Secretariat, urging the government to reconsider the proposed expansion of Ibadan Circular Road corridor beyond the approved 150 meters.

The protesters, drawn from Akinyele, Oluyole, Egbeda, Lagelu, Ona-Ara and Ido Local Government Areas, carried placards with inscriptions “We are begging Governor Makinde,” We are appealing to the state government to halt the planned expansion.

The Coordinator and Secretary of the Ibadan Circular Road Communities Representatives, Niyi Fasoye, appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to honour his 2024 promise that no houses would be demolished.

One of the protesters, a landlady, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Fijabi, who said the road was a good development, enjoined Governor Makinde to execute the project within the original boundaries.

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Crime

Police Capture Armed Gang Terrorizing Ikoyi-Ile

By Web News 706

By Abisola Oluremi

The Oyo State Police Command has arrested six suspected armed criminals in the Ikoyi-Ile area of Orire Local Government.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr AdewaleOsifeso, the suspects were linked to cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, and other violent crimes that had terrorized the Ikoyi-Ile community.

Mr Osifeso said key members of the gang were apprehended in the Igbo-Awe Forest, near Iboran Village.

Items recovered from them include one AK-47 rifle with 15 rounds of ammunition, two mobile phones, four empty magazines, a Nigerian Army jungle hat, a life jacket, and a pair of army uniforms.

The police spokesman urged residents to report any suspicious activities promptly to help security agencies prevent crime across the state.

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Health

NMA Laments Brain Drain/Poor Pay in Health Sector

By Web News 410

By Olawale Asake

The continued exodus of medical personnel and poor remuneration in Oyo state health sector dominated discussions at the 2025 week of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, Oyo state branch held at NMA House, Total Garden, Ibadan. 

In statement heralding the physicians’ week, Chairman of the Association, Dr Happy Adedapo, observed that the few  medical Doctors working at some General Hospitals across Oyo State were being over stretched due to their inadequate number and the increasing number patients they attended to daily. 

He added that, some primary Health Care centre also lacked basic equipment, essential medicines, which had adversely affected expectant and nursing mothers at the grassroots. 

The NMA Chairman, however, urged government to strengthen integrated referral systems linking primary, secondary and tertiary health facilities to provide welfare to medical doctors. 

Dr Adedapo appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to urgently fulfil thebpromise made to Medical Doctors at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, LASUTH, Ogbomoso. 

He noted that the annual event would afford the physicians the opportunity to celebrate the resilience of commitment and sacrifice of Nigerian doctors and reflect deeply on the state of the health system.

Edited by Olaitan Oye-Adeitan

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Governance

Oyo Speaker Calls for Improved Access to Modern Legislative Tools

By Web News 526

By Mosope Kehinde

The Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, has reiterated the urgent need for predictable funding mechanisms and modern tools to enhance the capacity and performance of State Houses of Assembly across the country.

The Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, has reiterated the urgent need for predictable funding mechanisms and modern tools to enhance the capacity and performance of State Houses of Assembly across the country.

Mr Ogundoyin made this call in Abuja during his goodwill message at the Consultative/Validation Meeting on the Needs Assessment of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria. 

According to him, the institutional, operational, and structural challenges faced by State Legislatures can only be addressed through deliberate reform, capacity building, and improved access to modern legislative tools. 

The Speaker said, for democracy to thrive and for legislatures to deliver on their constitutional mandates, they must be equipped with adequate resources, supported by robust frameworks, and shielded from financial uncertainties.

The conference chairman emphasized that state assemblies should not be treated as appendages of the Executive but as co-equal arms of government. 

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Culture

Obi Pays Congratulatory Visit to Olubadan-designate

By Web News 575

By Olawale Asake

A former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Presidential Candidate of Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi has paid a congratulatory visit to the Olubadan-designate, Oba Rashidi Ladoja in Ibadan, Oyo State. 

While speaking during the visit at the private residence of Oba Ladoja, the former Presidential candidate said, his visit was to congratulate the former Governor of Oyo State as the next 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, saying the Monarch will use his wealth of experience to further develop Ibadanland. 

Addressing the gathering, Oba Ladoja maintained that, the Olubadan throne would further make him to serve humanity.

The former governor while addressing the gathering, enjoined Mogajis (family heads), to go back to their ancestral compounds in order to mentor and assist younger generations.

Ladoja noted that, he is leading by example by renovating his family compound in Isale Osi in Ibadan South West LGA.

He added that, he sees his appointment as Olubadan of Ibadanland as another opportunity to serve humanity.

According to him, many people erroneously believed that the throne is for glamour, whereas time of glamour is gone and now it is about service.

The 44th Olubadan added that he has told the family heads, popularly known as Mogajis to go back to their ancestral homes to mentor generations of young elements, that they can become whatever God wants them to be even from their environment.

Oba Ladoja appreciated Mr Peter Obi and his entourage for the visit.

News

200 Women Benefit from Digital Literacy Programme in Ibadan

By Web News 145

By Iyabo Adebisi

A Non- Governmental Organisation, She Code Africa has trained over 200 women in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital in the digital literacy programme to bridge literacy gap, give access to education, jobs, and entrepreneurship.

The training organised by She Code Africa, sponsored HP was held at the Atanda, CBT centre, Ibadan. 

Speaking with newsmen at the end of the training, the Programme Associate of She Code Africa, Miss Maryann Okoye explained that the training focuses on the use of computer by beginners, operation of  smart-phones,  internet skills, online safety, and practical technology applications for school, work, and business.

Miss Okoye said the participants whose age ranges between 16 and 35  years from underserved communities are better equipped in the technological world

Two of the participants Olaojo Titilola and Adeleke Folasade while thanking She Code Africa for the initiative described the digital literacy program as educating and informing. 

She code Africa also partnered Oyo state ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion as well as Women Safe House Sustenance Initiative in the two weeks digital literacy programme. 

It would be recalled that the Digital literacy Programme by She Code Africa begun on 22nd August. 

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Agriculture

Oyo Govt. Partners Chinese Investors to Revolutionise Agriculture

By Web News 344

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging modern technologies to enhance and transform agriculture across the state.

The governor made this known through the Deputy Governor, Chief Bayo Lawal, during a courtesy visit by a delegation of Chinese investors from the China Overseas Engineering Group Co. Limited at the Governor’s Office, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde emphasized that investments in agricultural development and value chain expansion are central to his administration’s vision for economic growth and investor attraction.

Highlighting the state’s comparative advantage in agriculture, the governor noted significant investments in enabling infrastructure and security.

He urged the Chinese investors to collaborate with the state government to ensure food security, increase agricultural productivity, and establish Oyo State as a hub for agro-industrial processing.

He assured the delegation of the government’s readiness to provide a conducive environment to support their investment vision.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Dr. Debo Akande, praised the Chinese team’s objectives, noting their alignment with the state’s agricultural strategies.

Dr Akande emphasized that ongoing initiatives—including rural transformation, industrial hub development, and agro-processing zones—are designed to harness the state’s agribusiness potential for economic expansion.

Earlier, the Team Lead and Director of Strategic Services at the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Abuja, Alhaji Abubakar Yerima, commended Governor Makinde for transforming the state through impactful infrastructure projects and strategic investments in agribusiness.

The leader of the Chinese delegation, Ms. Dong Gwping, stated that their intervention aims to revolutionize the agricultural landscape by stimulating socio-economic growth through complete value chain development.

Ms Gwping highlighted plans to introduce Chinese technologies and expertise via partnership with the state.

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Education

Prepare ahead of school resumption – Kayrom Lee Advises Parents

By Web News 202

By Olawale Asake

An Entrepreneur, Mrs Romoke Ayinde, popularly known as Kayrom Lee, has called on parents and guardians to immediately commence preparation ahead of their children or wards’ resumption for the new academic session, if they have not begun.

Mrs Ayinde made the call while speaking with Radio Nigeria in Ibadan, on the preparation ahead of the 2025/2026 Session slated to begin in September 2025.

She noted that, it is important for parents to fully equip their children for both mental and physical alertness before their resumption.

The philanthropist noted that the present economic reality in the country tends to make prices of school materials unpredictable towards resumption, urging parents to begin preparation immediately to avoid a last-minute rush.

Mrs Ayinde, who is also the Chief Executive Officer, Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre, Ibadan and Founder, Imperial Initiative For Human Development, advised parents to prioritize their health and that of their children by visiting professionals for check ups and necessary advice before resumption.

She, however, appealed to the government at all levels to address the current economic challenges in Nigeria, to make life more comfortable for the masses.

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Power

Oyo State Targets 100% Electricity Coverage by 2035

By Web News 242

By Iyabo Adebisi

The Oyo State government has launched a process to establish its own electricity market, an initiative that aims to enhance energy independence, revitalise the economy, and achieve 100% power coverage across the state by 2035.

The Commissioner for Energy, Professor Dahud Sangodoyin, disclosed this plan during a stakeholder engagement meeting on the Draft Oyo State Electricity Policy and Electricity Bill in Ibadan.

Professor Sangodoyin stated that reviewing the draft bill is a crucial step as it will establish a legal and regulatory framework to empower the state to issue licenses for the transmission, distribution, and generation of energy within its borders.

The commissioner outlined a strategic roadmap with short, mid, and long-term goals.

He said the short-term plan involves opening the market to private sector investment immediately after the law is enacted to enable local generation and distribution of electricity.

Professor Sangodoyin also stressed Governor Seyi Makinde’s commitment to leveraging improved electricity access to raise the standard of living and drive economic growth.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Abiodun Aikomo, emphasized the urgent need for a modern legal framework.

He stated it must align with current realities in the power sector and empower the state to manage generation, distribution, and regulation more effectively.

Mr. Aikomo explained that the new law would address the entire market ecosystem, which includes licensing for independent operators and investors, theft prevention, granting regulatory powers, and promoting clean energy.

The proposed bill includes key reforms such as strengthening the state’s regulatory commission, encouraging renewable energy development, providing legal backing for prosecuting electricity offenses, and streamlining existing electricity-related laws.

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Culture

Isese Day: Oyo Declares August 20 Work Free Day

By Web News 270

Oyo State Government has declared Wednesday, 20 August, 2025, as a work-free day.

Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, in a circular letter dated 18th August, 2025, indicated that the governor approved the work-free day to mark the Isese Day Celebration.

According to the circular, the governor urged all citizens in the state to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and stability of the state in particular and the country in general.

PR/Iyabo Adebisi

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Politics

INEC Commences New Round of Continuous Voters’ Registration

By Web News 284

By Mosope Kehinde 

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Oyo State, has commenced a new round of Continuous Voter Registration, CVR, exercise.

In a statement by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC in the state, Dr. Adeniran Tella, the online pre registration of the CVR for eligible voters began yesterday while in-person registration commences next week Monday.

According to Dr Tella, the eligibility for the registration included Nigerian citizens who have attained the age of 18 years and above and have never registered before; registered voters who wish to transfer their voting locations from one place to another and registered voters who have had defaced or lost Permanent Voter Cards, PVCs, and require replacement.

Others include registered voters who need to correct their personal information on the voter register and Individuals who have registered before but whose name did not appear on the Voters’ Register.

Dr Tella urged eligible Nigerians to visit www.cvr.inecnigeria.org or www.cvr.inec.gov.ng  for the online pre registration

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Politics

Bye Election: Oyo Speaker Congratulates Folajimi Oyekunle on Victory

By Web News 314

By Mosope Kehinde

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly and Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Mr. Adebo Ogundoyin, has extended his warmest congratulations to Mr. Folajimi Oyekunle on his resounding victory in the Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election held on Saturday.

In a statement released by his Media Aide, Mr Oyetunji Oyekunle, the Speaker described the victory as not only well-deserved but also a strong affirmation of the people’s trust in the capacity, and credibility of Mr. Oyekunle,

The Speaker also praised the leadership of the PDP in Oyo State, especially Governor Seyi Makinde, for steering the party to yet another electoral success and for building a legacy of competent leadership across the state.

Mr. Ogundoyin urged Mr. Oyekunle to remain focused, humble, and people-driven in his legislative responsibilities at the National Assembly, promising continued support from the Oyo State House of Assembly.

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