Security

Oyo Govt. Set To Launch Integrated Security System

By Web News 714

The Oyo State Executive Council has disclosed plans to launch an integrated security concept to bring together state and non-state security actors to effectively tackle insecurity in the state.


The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Security Matters, Retired Commissioner of Police, Mr Fatai Owoseni stated this while briefing newsmen on the outcome of the state security task force meeting held in Ibadan.


Mr Owoseni explained that the Army, the Police, the DSS, Civil Defense Corps, Amotekun operatives, the OPC, the Vigilante, the Agbekoya, the Soludero, and other state and non-state security actors would be brought under one umbrella to fight crime in Oyo State.


Also speaking, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun hinted that the state government has perfected plans to establish hot spots and strategic policing.


Dr Olatunbosun said the group when launched would be stationed at various troubled spots in the state, especially in areas like Foko, Born Photo, Popo, and other disturbing areas of the state.


In a remark, the Chief of Staff to the Oyo State governor, Chief Bisi Ilaka, maintained that the two concepts would commence very soon.


Iyabo Adebisi
 

Health

Covid-19 Vaccine: We will ensure a safe, stress-free process – Makinde

By Web News 913

Oyo State government has flagged off the Covid-19 vaccination with the immunisation of Governor Seyi Makinde alongside the Secretary to the state government, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun, from the 127,740 Covid-19 vaccines received from the federal government.


Speaking after the vaccination, Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde admonished residents of the state to have confidence in the process and promised that the state would continue to monitor the process for necessary actions.


The vaccination which was carried out at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan was witnessed by the representatives of World Health Organization, WHO, UNICEF and the Nigeria Medical Association, NMA.


The governor noted that the sterility test which was carried out on the Covid-19 vaccines was done to validate that the vaccines that would be given to the people were properly handled.


Governor Makinde commended the health workers in the state for proper handling of the Covid-19 pandemic which prevented its escalation.


While administering the vaccines on the governor, Executive Secretary, Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr Muideen Olatunji urged people to forget about the misconceptions about the vaccines, pointing out that it would develop immunity against the disease.


Earlier, Commissioner for Health in the state, Dr Bashir Bello stated that the vaccines were kept at the required temperature so as to keep it safe for human use.


Iyabo Adebisi

Security

‘We have put measures in place to secure farmers’ lives’ – Oyo Govt.

By Web News 541

Farmers in Oyo State have been assured that all measures are in place to secure their lives as the State government would not allow individuals masquerading as herders to halt the pace of development in the agricultural sector of the State economy.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Hon Ojemuyiwa Ojekunle, gave this assurance while addressing farmers from Ijaye Farm Settlement, at the Ministry’s conference room after a peaceful demonstration conducted within the State secretariat complex by the aggrieved farmers.

The farmers have protested the destruction of their farms by cattle herders which has led to loss of their investments in the farms within the Ijaye Farm Settlement.

The Commissioner noted that the Engr. Seyi Makinde-led administration is a government of the masses which holds farmers in high esteem, urging farmers to bear in mind that economic expansion through agriculture and its value chain is one of the four point service agenda of the administration.

Hon Ojekunle said the government understood the plights of the farmers and would not leave any stone unturned in ensuring that farmers enjoy the fruits of their labour and secure their lives as well.

Earlier, the Chairman, Ijaye Farm Settlement Farmers’ Association, Dr. Tunde Tairu while stating their grievances, said that herdsmen and their cattle have invaded their farmland and have turned farmers to slaves on government land for which they paid rent yearly.

Tairu said further that the herdsmen could not be challenged because they were armed with sophisticated weapons and farmers were being threatened with guns anytime they challenge the herders.

“In fact two days ago, one of our farmers that challenged them on his own farm got his left arm amputated right in our presence,” Tairu added.

He noted that Fulanis have been terrorizing farmers for a long time but the situation has become precarious, as the herders have continued to rape and kidnap their family and community members.

The protesters requested for massive presence of security personnel on their farmland and also appealed to the government to create an office for Amotekun officials in the community, with the belief that it would scare criminals among the herders away.

Members of Ijaye Farm Settlement Farmers Association thereafter expressed gratitude to the State government for the privilege given them to express their grievances without prejudice, while also commending the Commissioner for the native intelligence he employed in handling the situation, noting that no government has ever given them such listening ears and opportunity for dialogue.

They pleaded with the Commissioner to ensure that action is taken and promises made by the government are fulfilled in earnest.

The peace meeting also had in attendance the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Bolatumi Oloko, Director of Crops and Farm Settlement, Mr. Opawusi, Director Animal Husbandry, Mr. Odedele and other members of the management team.

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Ibadan.

Wednesday 3rd March, 2021.

Security

Sasa Clash: Oyo Govt. Orders Closure of Market, Imposes Curfew

By Web News 1039

Oyo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of the Sasa market indefinitely following skirmishes reported at the market in Akinyele Local Government Area of Ibadan.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicates that the governor gave the order to forestall breakdown of law and order in the area and equally imposed a curfew on Shasha and the market area.

The curfew is to run from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m.

The statement warns residents of the affected area to go about their legitimate businesses peacefully, stating that anyone caught perpetrating violence will face the wrath of the law.

The statement read: “His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde has directed the immediate closure of Shasha market indefinitely following reports of a breach of peace in the area.

“The governor has also approved the imposition of curfew on Shasha. It will run from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m.

“Residents of the affected area are enjoined to go about their legitimate businesses within the hours stipulated by the law. 

“Anyone caught disrupting the peace of the community will be made to face the wrath of the law.”

Iyabo Adebisi

 

Judiciary

EndSARS: Judicial Panel Visits Petitioner Property

By Web News 641

A victim of EndSARS protest, Mr Femi Olabamiji has petitioned the Oyo State Government for the damages of his property destroyed during the protest last year. 

Defending his petition before the members of Oyo State Judicial Panel on Police Brutality, Mr Olabamiji, who is a proprietor of a private primary school at Yemetu area, Ibadan said property worth seventy five thousand naira were destroyed during the protest.

He told the panel that during protest some unknown hoodlums stormed his school at Yemutu area, Adeoyo Road, Ibadan burnt some chairs and tables, a part of the school building and also carted away some textbooks.

While prosecuting the petition, members of the panel asked about the standard of the school which he could not satisfactorily answered.

This however forced the members of the panel to visit the school on the spot assessment. 

Chairman of the panel Justice Badejoko Adeniji said the panel was in the school to assess the level of damage done to the school during the protest.

The panel will continue its sitting next week Tuesday.

Sunday Ogunyemi

Health

Oyo Govt. Rolls out Free Breast, Cervical Screening for Women

By Web News 667

Oyo State Government is to roll out a free breast and cervical screening programme for women of reproductive age on February 6th as part of activities marking this year’s World Cancer Day.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bashir Bello disclosed this during an event to commemorate 2021 World Cancer Day held at the Ministry of Health, Secretariat, Ibadan.

He explained that the screening programme in partnership with Coalition against Cancer and Hacey Health Initiative was to mitigate the socio economic impact of cancer, saying government would continue to focus on the preventive and curative aspect of cancer management 

Dr. Bashir Bello also noted that government would not relent in creating awareness about cancer across all communities in the state such that it would benefit the people and continue to maintain necessary collaborations that would ensure progress in reducing the global impact of cancer. 

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Funmi Salami said there was need to develop a culture where people would take responsibility for their health.

The free breast and cervical cancer is scheduled to hold this Saturday ,February 6th at Lagelu Grammar School from 8am.

Iyabo Adebisi

Religion

Oyo Govt. to Launch Hajj Saving Scheme on 28 January

By Web News 728

Oyo State government has announced its readiness to launch the State’s Hajj Savings Scheme on Thursday 28th January, 2021, in order to afford the less-privileged Muslims in the society perform hajj without the fear of financial burden.

The scheme, which will be launched by the State governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde will help Muslims in the State who have the dream of performing the annual pilgrimage under the State Muslim Pilgrimage Board to do so without difficulties as there will be a five years contribution window for beneficiaries of the scheme.

The intervention will be controlled by National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board and the Ja’iz Bank.

The Chairman, Oyo State Muslim Pilgrimage Board, Prof. Sayeed Malik revealed this over the weekend at Ibadan while speaking with reporters about the 2021 pilgrimage to the Saudi Arabia.

He said “the Oyo State Hajj Savings Scheme is much awaited, it is a scheme that was fashioned out on the State’s readiness to assist those longing to perform Hajj but are financially handicapped.

“The participants which will be dominantly the less-privileged Muslims, will have a five years contribution window to be eligible to benefit from the scheme and fulfil their dream of performing the last pillar of Islamic faith.”

Malik added that the launch will be done by the State governor which will be witnessed by delegates from the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Oyo State League of Imams and Alfas as well as representatives of Muslim organizations in the State.

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism,

Ibadan.

Sunday 24th January, 2021.

Economy

Oyo Donates 50 Shops To Farmers To Flag-off ‘Oja-Agbe’ Market in Ibadan

By Web News 983

Oyo State government has flagged-off the ‘Oja-Agbe’ Farmers Association in its bid to provide a conducive platform for the economic turnaround for traders and agricultural investors in the State.

The Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Cooperatives, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi stated this while flagging off the “oja-agbe” market at the Scout Camp Neighborhood Business Complex, Challenge, Ibadan on Thursday.

Adebisi stated that the Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde-led government would leave no stone unturned in making life more comfortable for farmers economically and socially, towards marketing their farm produce, which necessitated the government to release a significant number of open stalls in the Scout Camp Neighborhood Business complex at no cost to the “oja-agbe” Farmer’s Association in the State for the next one year.

At the instance of the Governor, according to Adeniyi, repairs were made in the complex to make commercial activities conducive in such areas as reconnection of electricity to the market, purchase of standby generator, repair of blown off roofs and the two existing boreholes in the market while approving the creation of Amotekun office in the complex for security of lives and properties.

The Commissioner therefore enjoined the leadership of”oja-agbe” Farmer’s association in the State to reciprocate the good gesture by selling their produce at a cheaper rate in comparison to retailers and support the programs of the State Government to take the people of the State from poverty to prosperity.

Adebisi called on other traders selling by the road side along Challenge, Molete and Mobil axis to return to the Scout Camp neighborhood business complex where adequate infrastructural facilities have been provided by the Government for their use.

“With all these facilities in place, we can see that traders that have been displaying and selling their wares by the roadside have no reason to do so anymore, we urge them to quickly make use of this opportunity of getting spaces here and trade with human dignity.

“The present administration will leave no stone unturned to make sure that food security is made a priority and our people who consume will get the products fresh and affordable, while farmers and traders in farm produce would maximize the concept of ‘Oja-Agbe’ to improve their socio-economic power.” 

In his remarks, the Chairman, Oja Agbe Farmer’s Association of Oyo State, Mr Muraina Olaleye appreciated the Engr. Seyi Makinde for giving out 50 open shops to the farmers for free use over a period of one whole year.

Olaleye appealed to his members to use the opportunity given to them for their advantage and take agriculture back to its position as it was in the 1960s when agriculture contributed largely to Nigeria’s National Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism,

Ibadan.

Thursday 14th January, 2020.

Environment

Oyo Inaugurates Rural Water Sanitation Agency Board

By Web News 642

Oyo State government has inaugurated the board for the State’s Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) to further strengthen the works of the agency in making water available for the people at the rural and urban communities.

While addressing the members who include Evangelist Sunday Ayobami, Hon. Gabriel Olayiwola and Engr. Abu Salami at their inaugural meeting, the Chairman, OYORUWASSA, Engr. Najeem Omirinde said the agency had suffered neglect from successive administrations which led to most of the equipment of the agency getting obsolete.

He said the present administration has revamped the working of the agency with the recent purchase of a rig and repair of the existing ones.

“With the present administration’s support, serious steps of transformation have commenced in earnest in respect of approval of repair of old drilling rigs and compressor, purchase of new drilling rigs, ready for commissioning by His Excellency.

“We have had the approval of a bank facility to the tune of #800million which would be counterpart funding to get listed and secure a grant of #2.9billion from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Abuja, partnership with several nongovernmental organizations like the Water-Aid for provision of handwashing facilities, WASH Clean Nigeria Campaign and others.

“Consequent upon the above, I welcome you on board to this agency and I solicit for your support, commitment and understanding in order to assist the State government to uplift the standard of living of the citizens in the area of provision of quality water and reduction of water borne diseases in the State,” Omirinde stated.

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism,

Ibadan.

Thursday 14th, January, 2020.

Health

Oyo govt. remains committed to the wellbeing of all – Dr Bello

By Web News 821

Commissioner for Health in Oyo State, Dr Bashir Bello, has assured residents of the state of continued efforts at curtailing the spread of COVID-19 which has entered its second wave.

The commissioner stated this in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Ibadan.

Dr Bello noted that the present administration has pledged to make the wellbeing of the residents its top priority.

The health commissioner noted that as the Pacesetter State, different approaches will continue to be used to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

Dr Bello, however, urged residents to continue to support the government’s effort by adhering to all COVID-19 protocols as reeled out by the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control, NCDC.

Lilian Ibomor

Environment

Oyo Govt. Releases New Ease of Payment Plan for Waste Evacuation

By Web News 722

 Oyo State Government has revealed a new ease of payment plan for waste evacuation in the state with effect from March 2021.

This was revealed in Ibadan by the state’s Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Dr. Abdulateef Oyekele, while briefing journalists on new measures to tackle challenges of waste management, especially in the Ibadan. 

Dr. Oyekele said with the plan, payment of cash to waste contractors would stop, and this would bring about efficiency and accountability in the system to serve the generality of Oyo State citizens better.

According to him, the new payment plan would be more sustainable as it would integrate private sector participation (PSP) in the timely and efficient collection and management of wastes across the nooks and crannies of the state.

The commissioner said the system would help in generating employment opportunities for private partners that are yet to be engaged in the strive to boost the state’s commercial activities.

He therefore urged residents to embrace the culture of prompt payment as this would go a long way in ensuring a clean and green environment for all. 

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

Oyo Govt. Inaugurates “Operation Burst” Call Centre

By Web News 2859

Oyo State Security Joint Task Force codenamed “Operation Burst” has inaugurated a call center for optimal performance to combat insecurity in the state.

The numbers are 09040841573 and 09040841581.

Director-General of Operation Burst, Retired General Ajibola Oladipo stated that the centre was to make Residents of Oyo State heave a sigh of relief on the issue of security.

Retired Oladipo noted that, residents of Oyo state should be rest assured that the coming festive periods would be crime free.

Inaugurating the call centre, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State who spoke through the Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Olawale Mogbonjubola said his administration would do all it could to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the state.

Governor Makinde therefore called on members of the public to fully support Operation Burst by giving out useful information to collectively fight against insecurity.

Rasheedah Makinde

Economy

Oyo Government Pays Retirees 8 Billion Naira

By Web News 700

Oyo State government has disclosed that 3,783 retirees under the State’s Civil Service, Judicial Service, Teaching, Non-Teaching, as well as the Local Government Service Commission and primary school retirees have been paid 8 billion naira as gratuity till the month of October, 2020.

The Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Professor Daud Kehinde Sangodoyin and the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission and Local Government Staff Pension Board, Honorable Aderemi Ayodele, made this assertion separately to journalists in Ibadan on Monday.

Professor Sangodoyin said the process of writing to go into retirement and getting issued pension authority certificate as well as being eligible to be paid gratuity was foolproof.

He hinted that 1304 among the retirees that belonged to the State’s main stream workforce like teaching, non-teaching, civil servants and those from the judicial service commission have been paid till October with Three Billion, Sixty Million Naira.

The Chairman, Local Government Service Commission and Local Government Pension Board, Honorable Aderemi Ayodele said the pension board has been the flagship of the present administration as major promises made by governor Seyi Makinde during election campaign period to workers and retirees were met.

Aderemi elucidated that the total of 4,930,689,626.38 (Four billion, nine hundred and thirty million, six hundred and eighty-nine thousand, six hundred and twenty-six naira and thirty-eight kobo) has been paid to 2,459 retirees till October 2020.

On workers training, the Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Professor Sangodoyin added that the state government has released 47 million naira for the ongoing first phase of training for workers in different categories in the areas of business writing, expanded Microsoft training, leadership skills training among others.

He maintained that the government has vowed to continuously measure the impact of the training on the system and the workforce.

Nafiu Busari

Environment

Indiscriminate Refuse Dumping: Oyo Distributes Waste Skip Bins

By Web News 659

Oyo State Government has commenced stationing skip bins at strategic locations for easy access to dwellers to dispose their waste.

The exercise was flagged off by the Hon. Commissioner for the  Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Dr, Abdul-Lateef Idowu Oyeleke in company of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Bashir Olanrewaju, the Chairman Task force on Environment, ACP Francis Ojomo and staffers of the ministry and the consultant on Waste Management for Oyo State, Macpresse Nigeria Ltd. during the weekly sanitation exercise at Iwo road in Ibadan.

The Commissioner pointed out that environmental menace had been a thing of concern to the government, considering the health hazard that it posed to the residents of the State, hence the initiative to introduce skip bins which would be placed at targeted locations, so as to make it accessible for people to drop their waste while stopping the bad culture of dumping wastes on the road medians.

“It would be recalled that early this year, His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde put in place a new solid management architecture which is key in the development agenda for his administration, hence the need to key the residents into this vision of zero tolerance to filthy and indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the State.

“This will go a long way to help us cut to the minimum, the habit of people dumping their waste indiscriminately on road medians, in the waterways and in other places not suitable for their hygiene.

“The skip bins will be periodically emptied and replaced to make it available for residents 24 hours of the day and we shall make sure we enforce its usage.”

The Commissioner further appealed to members of the public, particularly the road users to make good use of the bins to achieve a dirt-free State, emphasizing that it was part of their civic responsibility and if done, would also attract investors that would boost the economy of the State.

Dr. Idowu Oyeleke further noted that anyone caught dumping waste indiscriminately after the provision of the bins would face the wrath of the law.

Speaking at the scene also, the Chairman of Environmental Task force, ACP Francis Ojomo hinted that dialogue would be held with all affected stakeholders which would lead to a security architecture that would take care of the bins provided.

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism (MIC&T), Ibadan.

Friday 16th October, 2020.

Health

We are committed to improved maternal, neonatal health care – Makinde

By Web News 945

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has promised to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality and increase health care facility utilization by 60% in the state. 

He stated this while inaugurating Oyo State expanded maternal and child health care initiative called “Tomotiya”. 

Governor Makinde who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan explained that credible statistics showed that the state has the worst neonatal mortality in the country hence the relevance of the “Tomotiya” initiative in addressing the gap.

The governor added that the initiative would contribute as a key in meeting the sustainable development goals (SDGs) number 3 which targets improving maternal health. 

In a welcome address, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello said apart from ensuring better welfare for mother and child, the initiative would also provide insurance for pregnant women in the state. 

In a presentation, the initiator of the “Tomotiya” concept and Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Funmi Salami said the pilot stage of the initiative would commence in 3 local governments identified with high risk before it would be expanded across the state.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of goodwill messages by the technical partner of the initiative, UNICEF, as well as WHO, Rotary, APIN amongst others. 

Iyabo Adebisi

News

Oyo Govt, Shell Nigeria, Collaborate to Boost Gas Supply

By Web News 869

Oyo State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with Shell Nigeria Gas to extend its gas pipeline framework into the state to improve energy and power supply thereby boost industrialization.

The MOU was signed by Governor Seyi Makinde together with Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde said the project when completed would reduce industries’ reliance on diesel to run their power and expand the frontiers of investment in the state.

The governor disclosed that the project would be built and operated by Shell and transferred to the state after 15 years.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas, Mr Ed Ubong explained that the project, aside fostering accelerated development in the state, would also generate employment and skills development and provide uninterrupted access to power.

The Deputy Governor, Engineer Rauf Olaniyan and other top government functionaries were present at the signing ceremony.

Iyabo Adebisi

Education

LAUTECH: Gov. Makinde Orders Reinstatement, Payment of Salaries of Sacked Lecturers

By Web News 950

Oyo State government has directed that the last batch of the sacked staff of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, be reinstated and their salaries for five months paid.

The 41 staff were among those affected by the general sack order issued by the administration of the immediate past governor of the state, the late Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

In a statement issued after the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, said the resolution of the state government was in tandem with the resolve of the governor to cater for all, no matter their status in the society.

Dr. Olatubosun hinted that the reinstatement is to take effect from May, 2020, when their colleagues in LAUTECH who were also affected, resumed office.

He called on the affected workers to show more dedication to their jobs, stressing that the present administration would leave no stone unturned in its pursuit of promoting the welfare of all workers on the state’s payroll.

“It is with joy that I announce the resolution of the State Executive Council meeting, held on Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at the Exco Chamber, Governor’s Office, that the 41 LAUTECH Staff that were affected by the sack order, issued by the last administration, be reinstated and their five months’ salaries be paid.

“The resolution is in accordance with the programme and policy of the Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, who has promised to do everything possible to promote the welfare of public and civil servants, as well as development of their working environment to attain optimum output.

“We are using this opportunity to call on the affected individuals and those not affected to see the magnanimity of the governor as a booster to put more efforts into their work and help reposition the notable institution for the better,” the statement read.

The commissioner appreciated the reinstated workers for their patience and resilience during the period of hardship, assuring them that the present administration would not vilify workers, but promote their interests.

Iyabo Adebisi

Crime

Oyo Govt. Inaugurates Taskforce on Human Trafficking

By Web News 840

In a bid to end human trafficking, Oyo State Government has inaugurated about thirty task force members.

Radio Nigeria correspondent reports that the members were drawn from different agencies and parastatals which includes the Nigeria Police, Immigration, JPDC and a representative of non-governmental organizations.

The state governor, who was represented by his deputy, engineer Rauf Olaniyan while inaugurating the members, urged them to do all within their capabilities to reduce human trafficking to zero level.

Engineer Seyi Makinde noted that the members were carefully selected in the society.

Director General, the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons NAPTIP, Julie Okah-Donli, said the agency was ready to nip human trafficking in the bud at all cost.

The members pledged their readiness to work together to end human trafficking in the state.

Among those in attendance were representative of Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oloye Lekan Alabi, Oyo State Commissioner for Justice, Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Diaspora.

Lilian Ibomor

Environment

Oyo to Develop Government Reserved Areas in Six Local Councils

By Web News 2074

Oyo State Government has expressed its readiness to develop about eight Government Reserved Areas (GRAs) in six local government areas of the state.

The Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr Abiodun Abdu-Raheem disclosed this in an interview with Radio Nigeria.

Mr Abdu-Raheem noted that the construction of four out of the proposed GRAs would commence before the end of this year.

The commissioner explained that three GRAs would be sited at Akinyele Local Government Area, one at Ido Local Government Area, one at Egbeda Local Government Area, one at Oluyole Local Government Area, one at Lagelu Local Government Area and one at Ona-ara Local Government Area.

On the ongoing Property Enumeration and Street Identification Exercise by the Oyo State Government, Mr Abdu-Raheem emphasised that for the government to be able to provide necessary infrastructure for the people, there was the need for adequate data.

Mr Abdul Raheem allayed the fears of some citizens presuming levies as the aftermath of the enumeration exercise.

The commissioner hinted that additional 50 successful applicants would be collecting their digitized Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) next week under the Oyo State Home Owners Charter Scheme.

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

Oyo Govt., Stakeholders Collaborate To Forestall Bloodshed In Akinyele

By Web News 838

Oyo State government and stakeholders in Akinyele Local Government Area of the state have partnered to apprehend the serial killer in the council who escaped from the police custody.

This followed a town hall meeting organized by the Oyo State government held at Moniya, headquarters of Akinyele Local Government.

Speaking at the event, Special Adviser on Security to Governor Seyi Makinde, Mr Fatai Owoseni expressed concern on the incessant killings in the area especially the escape of Sunday Sodipe arrested in connection with the dastardly act.

Mr Owoseni who is also a former Commissioner of Police highlighted efforts by the present administration in the state on security and wondered how Sodipe could slip from police custody.

While warning people against jungle justice, the special adviser urged the relevant stakeholders to collaborate with police adding that the situation was under control.

The caretaker chairman of Akinyele Local Government, Mr Taoheed Jimoh appreciated various groups at curtailing security challenges in the Akinyele communities.

Representatives of various groups expressed displeasure on the escape of the suspected serial killer with a call for redeployment of police officers who have stayed too long in the council.

They however expressed readiness to work with security agencies in the state to improve the security of the area.

Some of the groups at the meeting include representatives of vigilante, hunters, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and landlord associations.

It would be recalled that the prime suspect in Akinyele serial killings, Sunday Sodipe who was arrested after eight persons had been gruesomely murdered recently in Akinyele escaped from police custody last week.

Iyabo Adebisi

Health

COVID-19: Oyo Govt. Holds Stakeholders Meeting

By Web News 829

Oyo State Government has organized stakeholders meeting on Covid-19 to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

The programme put together by the state Covid-19 Decontamination and Containment team was held at the Western Hall, Secretariat, Ibadan.

It is aimed at re-orientating stakeholders in the society on the need to reinforce campaign against the spread of Covid-19 in their domains and imbibe all precautionary measures on Covid-19.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief of Staff, Chief Oyebisi Ilaka represented by his deputy, Mr Mojeed Mogbonjubola, maintained that the disease is real, urging people to follow Covid-19 protocol.

In a remark, the Head, Oyo State COVID-19 Decontamination, and Containment Team, Professor Olanike Adeyemo said the stakeholders meeting became necessary as report had it many individuals and corporate bodies, especially financial institutions were not adhering strictly to the Covid-19 preventive measures issued by the government.

The traditional rulers, chairmen, and chairpersons of various associations present at the meeting lauded the efforts of the state government towards curtailing the spread of COVID-19 in Oyo State and promised to sensitize their constituents on the new normal.

Iyabo Adebisi

Security

Oyo Govt. Approves Funds for Take-off of Amotekun

By Web News 799

… Funds for Re-accreditation of Adeoyo Maternity as Teaching Hospital approved

…Keys into FG’s National Development Plan

Oyo State Government on Tuesday approved the sum of N59, 783, 437.50 (Fifty nine million, seven hundred and eighty-three thousand, four hundred and thirty-seven Naira and fifty Kobo) as grant for the take-off of the State Security Network Agency, codenamed ‘Operation Amotekun’.

This was disclosed after the state’s 19th virtual executive meeting, where the executive council approved the fund for the procurement of 3000 units of uniforms, combat boots, lanyard, baseball hats, security belts and worsted socks.

It will also cover the production of logo for the personnel to serve as identity and distinguish them from other security agencies in the State.

The Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, while disclosing the outcome of the meeting, said “further on the establishment of the State Security Network, codenamed ‘Operation Amotekun’ and for effective take off of the agency, the State Executive Council has approved the procurement of 3000 units of uniforms and accoutrements such as combat boots, lanyard, baseball hats, security belts, worsted socks, production of Amotekun and Oyo State logo for 3000 Amotekun corps to be recruited into the agency at a total sum of Fifty nine million, seven hundred and eighty three thousand, four hundred and thirty seven naira and fifty kobo.

“The uniforms and accoutrements which will be given to each recruited Amotekun Corp will serve as a form of identity for the corps and will distinguish them from other security agencies in the state.”

Olatubosun further stated that the council also approved funds for re-accreditation of Adeoyo Maternity at Yemetu in Ibadan as a full-fledged teaching hospital, as the accreditation initially gotten was withdrawn for failure to have necessary equipment in place, saying it was in conformity with the present administration’s passion to revitalise the health sector  in the State.

He said the hospital would henceforth serve as residence training and gynaecology centre to add value to the iconic health institution and improve the image of the State, adding that the move would lead to procurement of medical equipment for the teaching hospital at the cost of Seventy-five million, eight hundred and seventy-seven thousand and six hundred Naira (#75,877,600.00).

“In pursuant of this lofty goal, the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria has visited Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital and the team has notified the state government of their intention to give re-accreditation to Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital.

The equipment to be procured includes six hydraulic delivery beds, two theatre electronic/automatic tables and one Laparoscope plus one hysteroscope. Others are one Colposcope, two CTG, two Ultrasound, four Angle Poise Lamps and one bowl anaesthetic machine.

“Summary of the equipment for re-accreditation of Adeoyo Maternity Teaching Hospital at a total cost of N75,877,600.00, the facility is expected to be ready for reaccreditation before the end of the year 2020.”

The Commissioner also informed journalists that the State government, through the Executive Council, has keyed into the federal government’s preparation for a long-term plan tagged “Nigeria Agenda 2050” and a medium-term national development plan 2021-2025 which he said would succeed the Vision 20:2020 and the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP) 2017-2020.

He said the decision is consistent with the development process as obtained in countries like China, South Korea, India and Malaysia. He hinted that preparation for the State Plan 2021-2041, the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), Medium Term Sector Strategy (MTSS) and Medium-Term Budget Framework (MTBF) would commence from August 2020 and span a period of 133 days at a total sum of N83,571,725.00.

The University of Ibadan Ventures Limited (Consultancy Service Unit) has also been appointed as the consultant to support the process.

According to Dr Olatubosun, “the plan will be anchored on six strategic thematic areas, namely, Economic Development, Human Capital and Social Development, Infrastructure, Science and Technology, Resources Mobilisation and Financial Management, Security, Governance and Service Delivery.”

“The plan is to emphasise on the development agenda of the current administration as encapsulated in the Roadmap to Accelerated Development of Oyo State.”

“In line with best practices, the State would adopt an all-inclusive and participatory approach to preparing the home grown State Development Plan.

“In order to enhance the broad-base ownership of the implementation of the Plan, key stakeholders with include all MDAs, Local Government Areas, Local Council Development Authorities, Civil Society Organizations, the Academia, Research Institutions, DAWN Commission, Development Partners like UNICEF, DFID-PERL among others.”

Signed:

Wasiu Olatubosun (P.hd),

Hon. Commissioner for Information,

Culture and Tourism, Ibadan.

Wednesday 5th August, 2020

Health

COVID-19: Fidelity Bank Partners Oyo Govt.

By Web News 715

As part of the effort to encourage medical personnel in the frontline of fighting Covid-19 pandemic, the Fidelity bank has donated medical supplies and personal protective kits to the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Health. 

Some of the medical supplies donated included six hundred unit of PPEs, twenty thousand units of gloves and one thousand pieces of face mask. 

Fidelity bank Regional Head, Southwest One, Mr Adebayo Adeyinka who said the donation was in line with the banks corporate social responsibility disclosed that the exercise was taking place across the states of the Federation. 

Mr Adeyinka said twelve states have so far benefited from the initiative. 

While commending the gesture, Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Bashir Bello described Corona virus scourge as a terrible pandemic that no government can handle alone, hence the need for partnership with corporate organizations.

Dr Bello said the medical equipment will no doubt assist the state in fighting the virus and will be judiciously used. 

Mosope Kehinde. 

Education

We will not be distracted by sentiments – Makinde

By Web News 815

Oyo State governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde says the state will continue to experience progress and development if premium is placed on competence and merit in key appointment against other considerations. 

Engineer Makinde stated this during the inauguration of governing board for the state owned tertiary institutions held at Agodi Government House, Ibadan.

The governor expressed confidence in the ability and composition of membership of the various boards stressing that those seeking to distract the administration with religious sentiments on the appointments would not succeed.

Governor Makinde who said his administration would not renege in its responsibility to the tertiary institutions particularly with payment of 100% subvention, however charged the governing board on quality assurance, efficient system management as well as other institutional changes. 

The governor added that his administration was still committed to taking full ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, LAUTECH, Ogbomoso.

Responding on behalf of others, chairman of governing board, College of Education, Lanlate, Dr Bisi Ojebola promised that the board would work in accordance with its mandate.

In a related development, Governor Seyi Makinde has sworn in a new Permanent Secretary for the State Local Government Pension Board, Mr Titilola Sodo with a call on all actors to work together for the progress of the state.

Iyabo Adebisi

Economy

Oyo Government to Issue 100 Billion Naira Prosperity Bond

By Web News 1877

The Oyo State Executive Council has approved the issuance of a 100 billion naira private bond tagged “Oyo Prosperity Bond” to facilitate the execution of priority projects that would further drive economic development in the state.

Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun disclosed this after the state’s weekly Executive Council’s virtual meeting. 

Dr Olatubosun explained that the fund would be raised in two tranches of 50 billion naira each for the construction of the 50 kilometre Iseyin-Ogbomoso road, the Ibadan Circular Ring-Road and Ibadan Airport upgrade. 

The fund would also covered the development of Ibadan Dry Port and rail corridor which would serve as economic hubs of the state.

The commissioner stated further that the state would construct and upgrade, with modern equipment, one government hospital in each of the three senatorial districts of the state. 

He added that the 21 kilometre Airport-Ajia-New Ife Express Road with a spur to Amuloko in Ibadan would also benefit from the alternative project funding approach of the state government.

According to the commissioner, the project funding would be in form of Alternative Project Funding Approach (APFA), which allows for Public-Private Partnership for funding of infrastructural projects in the State. 

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Executive Council has also approved the establishment of the Oyo State Development Agency for Socio-Economic Advancement (OYODASA) to give room for the residents of the state to have a better understanding of government’s goals and help establish a shared vision between communities within the state and the state administration.

Iyabo Adebisi