Investigate Human Killing Claim on Fresh FM, ICIR Charges Police IG …. Says Isese Detests Human Killing, Engages Lawyer To Write Radio Station

  The President of the International Council for Ifá Religion, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode has said that there is nothing like human sacrifice in Yoruba Traditional Religion. He said this in his response to a viral video circulating on the internet which was recorded at a popular Radio Station in Ibadan, called Fresh FM recently. In the video, only the owner of the Radio, Yinka Ayefele is seeing interviewing a man whose face was not shown and the interviewee said he had killed many people for Òrìṣà. In a Press Release on Thursday, the President of ICIR said the claim was fabricated with the aim of tarnishing the image of Yoruba Traditional Religion. “Our attention has been drawn to a viral video, allegedly made in the Yinka Ayefele studio of Fresh FM in Ibadan where a man whose face was not shown said he had killed many human beings for Òrìsà. “It has been said before and we will continue to reiterate the fact that Yoruba Traditional Religion which is called Isese abhors human Killing and true Isese worshippers are repulsed upon seeing human blood. “Those behind this campaign have used every means to tarnish what the Creator gave us to worship him, but we will continue to speak against it; using human parts or blood for money or whatever ritual is alien to our religion and we will continue to fight against it. “We are surprised that a respected Radio Station in Ibadan can be used to launch this campaign of calumny against us and our cherished Isese, but we are using this opportunity to call on the Inspector General of Police and the Oyo State Police Command to immediately launch an investigation into the man’s claim to unearth the truth and arrest him and his sponsors.” He further said that the ICIR has instructed its lawyer to work with Yinka Ayefele in order to get the identity of the self-acclaimed ritual killer for the security agencies to do the needful. “We also advise Isese adherents to be calm and patient as we are sure that we will get to the bottom of the fabrication,” he urged. Signed: Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, President, International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR), Ile-Ife. Thursday, 31st October, 2024.

Tributes As Nollywood Mourns Passing Of Charles Olumo, “Agbako” At 101

  Social media has been filled with tributes for the late veteran Nollywood actor Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, popularly known as Charles Olumo or “Agbako,” as fans and colleagues share memories of the iconic performer. On Thursday, the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) announced the passing of Agbako in a statement on Instagram by its president, Bolaji Amusan, also known as Mr. Latin. He wrote, “#tampanglobal announces the passing of Pa Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, fondly known as AGBAKO. Details of the burial arrangements will be shared at a later time. Good night father, 25/02/1923 to 31/10/2024.” Actor Jide Kosoko also confirmed Agbako’s demise as he wrote: “Good night ooo, Baba Charles. a.k.a Agbako, 101 years, ba wasa ba. R I P.” Actor Kunle Afod said, “Good night pa Charles Olumo (Baba Agbako), the oldest actor. 101 years, Sun re ooo, O dabo, O di Oju Ala.” Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele, wrote, “Awwwwwwww may his soul rest in peace. Wow. Oluwa tobi loba” Film Maker / Movie Distributor, Kazim Adeoti, wrote, “May his soul rest in peace. Orun ‘re o Baba.” Nollywood actress Biodun Okeowo, popularly known as Omo Butty, wrote, “Rest well sir. No matter how old our loved ones are, we never want to see them go! Kudos boss Afod for all you do.” Agbako, born in 1923, was a beloved figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his powerful portrayals of characters like chiefs, warriors, and villains. Starting his career in stage plays, he seamlessly transitioned to film as the industry evolved, becoming a key figure in Nollywood’s early days. With memorable roles in classics such as Ogbori Elemosho and Atorunmo, Agbako’s performances captivated audiences for decades and earned him a place as a Yoruba film legend. Agbako clocked 101st this year. •PUNCH

We’re Impressed With OYCSDA’s Prioritization of Water Availability in Oyo’ – EWNA

  The Ecumenical Water Network, Africa (EWNA) has commended the Oyo State Community and Social Development Agency (OYCSDA) for prioritizing water availability across the State. This was stated in the address of the organization’s Regional Coordinator, Vr. Kolade Fadahunsi during a courtesy visit to OYCSDA Chairman, Hon. Abideen Adetokunbo Adeaga on Wednesday. Kolade said the visit was part of the advocacy programmes embarked upon by the body to call for availability of water in five major African countries, namely, Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Kenya, adding that the focus in Nigeria is on the South West of the country. He mentioned that it is commendable that the ongoing sixty-six projects of OYCSDA across the State that are basically on education, health, sanitation and erosion control, encompasses water provision for every sector of the projects, as directed by the World Bank and Oyo State government, under the Nigerian Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES). He went further to call for collaboration between OYCSDA and Ecumenical Water Network, Africa, as the body celebrated ‘Africa Water Week,’ so as to achieve the set agenda of delivering portable water for a mass of people and stamp out water-borne diseases from the country. “While extending warm greetings from Ecumenical Water Network, Africa, and commend your efforts in transforming the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, we are delighted to inform you that your initiatives have made a lasting impact on the communities. “Our organization has been advocating for water availability in five African countries of Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Kenya, while in Nigeria, we focus on South West, we are excited about the yearly Africa Water Week, which is usually in the week of 21-26 October annually. “This event aligns with our mission with our mission to promote water as a right and combat privatization, we are impressed by OYCSDA’s prioritization of water availability in Oyo State, particularly the 66 ongoing micro-projects across local governments,” he declared. In his response the Chairman of OYCSDA, Hon. Abideen Adetokunbo Adeaga appreciated the EWNA team and promised to do more to sustain the legacy of sustainable community development of Governor Seyi Makinde in the State. He told his guests that the State was poised to increase availability, affordability and accessibility of citizens to portable water without leaving out any area in the State. Meanwhile, the OYCSDA on Tuesday, held a training for its employees to enhance their performance and productivity at work. The training, which held at the Ibadan, Oyo State on Wednesday, had its theme as: Improving Productivity In Community Development Work. The resource person at the training, Mr Siyanbola Adegoke spoke on improving business/workplace etiquette, stakeholders relationship management, effective communication and the need for time management among other core areas of discussion. He enjoined the members of OYCSDA staff to maintain diligence, hardwork and resilience in the face of constraints at work, so as to deliver more to the communities in Oyo State that are the major stakeholders in their work focus. The Chairman, Oyo CSDA, Hon. Abideen Adetokunbo Adeaga said the recent approval given for the sixty-six micro-projects called for more productivity and hard work from the members of staff, which necessitated the training event. The General Manager, OYCSDA, Mr Salau Jelili reiterated the commitment of the Oyo State administration, under Governor Seyi Makinde to do more towards positively impacting the populace. Signed: Alhazan Abiodun Rilwan, Project Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Oyo State Community and Social Development Agency (OYCSDA), Ibadan. Wednesday, 30th October, 2024.

We’ll Ensure Even Distribution Of Roads Rehabilitation,Oyo Govt. Assures Residents

  Residents of Oyo State have been assured of even distribution of rehabilitation, as the Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency, OYSROMA, continues to make efforts to rehabilitate roads in the State. The Chairman, OYSROMA, Mr. Raphael Ogunlade gave the assurance in Ibadan while inspecting some ongoing rehabilitation projects on Thursday. There have been numerous concerns from Oyo residents in other zones regarding the ongoing rehabilitation in the state, if it will be extended to all zones in Oyo state. Responding to the enquiries, Ogunlade said “Governor Seyi Makinde has assured the residents of Oyo state that this rehabilitation process is not only going to be done in Ibadan but will definitely extend to other zones till the whole Oyo state is covered.” Ogunlade, quoting the governor said, “he re-emphasised this at the Mobil – Akala road commissioning some months ago where he categorically mentioned that rehabilitation process like this will also be extended to Oyo, Ogbomosho and other zones, and he pleaded with Oyo state residents to exercise more patience as their convenience is him and his cabinets’ top priority.” The OYSROMA Chairman while inspecting a just concluded project, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his diligent efforts towards giving Oyo state the best road network and for giving listening ears and support to OYSROMA in making these projects a success. The chairman also assured the people that the rehabilitation exercise involves all the bridges damaged by the recent heavy rainfall, adding that they will be reconstructed as directed by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde “We are grateful to our Governor for his consistent effort in giving Oyo state the best in every sector and his commitment to this dream of making Oyo state roads the best in the country. We will also appreciate the residents of Oyo state for their continuous understanding and appreciate if they can be a bit more patient as every demand concerning Oyo state roads will be attended to as soon as possible”, he said.

Rebuilding Oyo State’s Road Network: A Pathway To Economic Stability Under Governor Seyi Makinde.

  By Comr. Ibekwe Simeon, A Member of GSM Advocates   In recent years, the importance of infrastructure in fostering economic growth has become increasingly evident, particularly in developing regions. Oyo State, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has embarked on a transformative journey to revitalize its road network, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing economic stability and fostering sustainable development. Governor Makinde’s administration recognizes that a robust road infrastructure is crucial for facilitating trade, improving access to markets, and attracting investments. With a significant portion of the state’s economy reliant on agriculture, manufacturing, and commerce, the need for a reliable road network cannot be overstated. The dilapidated state of many roads has hindered the movement of goods and services, affecting local businesses and farmers who struggle to reach their markets. To address these challenges, the Governor has initiated a comprehensive road rehabilitation and construction program. This ambitious plan involves not only the upgrading of existing roads but also the construction of new ones to enhance connectivity between urban and rural areas. By prioritizing key routes that link agricultural hubs to major markets, the initiative aims to reduce transportation costs, increase efficiency, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of residents. Furthermore, the road network revitalization project is expected to generate significant employment opportunities. As construction activities ramp up, local labor will be engaged, providing jobs for many who are currently unemployed. This boost in employment will have a ripple effect, stimulating the local economy and fostering a sense of community resilience. In addition to economic benefits, the project focuses on ensuring safety and accessibility. Improved roads will reduce travel times and minimize accidents, creating a more secure environment for commuters. Governor Makinde has also emphasized the importance of transparency and community involvement in the execution of these projects. By engaging local stakeholders and soliciting their input, the administration aims to ensure that the road network meets the specific needs of the communities it serves. This collaborative approach not only fosters trust but also empowers residents to take ownership of their development. It will interest the public that Governor Seyi Makinde’s initiative to rebuild Oyo State’s road network is a vital step toward achieving economic stability and sustainable growth. By improving infrastructure, the administration is not only enhancing connectivity and accessibility but also laying the foundation for a prosperous future. As these projects progress, they are sure to transform the economic landscape of Oyo State, creating opportunities for all and driving the state toward a brighter tomorrow.

Makinde Names Township Road, Polytechnic After Ex-SSG, Koleoso•••Pledges To Resuscitate Technical Education

  Amid growing concerns over the dearth of vocational skills among the youth populace and the relegation of technical education, Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his government will refurbish technical colleges and re-launch vocational education in the state. The governor noted that the initiative is aimed at addressing youth unemployment, stating that the Oyo State Government, with the support of the Finnish Government, will undertake the refurbishing of technical colleges in the state. Governor Makinde stated this on Saturday while speaking at the Ajegunle Baptist Church, Saki, at the funeral service for a former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Chief Michael Koleoso (OFR), who passed away few weeks ago. The governor, who eulogised the late elder statesman for being selfless and always seeking the development of his community and the state, said the quality of advice he received from Pa Koleoso helped him personally and also in the administration and development of the state. He named the 9.7km Saki Township Road after the late politician, adding that the State Executive Council had also concluded plans to rename The Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki after Koleoso. According to the governor, Pa Koleoso never played politics of religion or divisive tendencies, as he always advised him (governor) on several matters of concern to the state, including the ongoing rehabilitation of roads in Ibadan, the state capital. He said: “We thank God for today because we are here to celebrate a life well-lived. There is no doubt we lost one of our finest minds, be it in business, management, governance and even politics. “It is a personal loss to me, because Baba told everybody till he breathed his last that though he had quit politics, he wouldn’t stop supporting Seyi Makinde’s government. So, I had the opportunity to spend quality time with Baba. And I can tell you that Baba never requested for anything for himself or his children. “Before he died, he told me that there was no Permanent Secretary from Oke-Ogun serving in this government but I told him there used to be but they retired. So, he requested that they should be replaced and it was done. “In another instance, he told me we needed to fix Ibadan apart from linking all the zones and I said we would do that. If you go to the state capital today, you can see the works we have done and they are still ongoing. That is the quality of advice I received from Baba. Not only am I am better for it but the state has also benefitted from his wise counsel. “Also, a few days before his passing, I was in Finland and he called me while we were engaging the education officials there. They said they place more emphasis on technical education and not paper qualification. Then, I told Baba that one of the requests he gave me would be worked upon, which was that the Saki Technical College must be refurbished and re-launched. “It will be done with the assistance of the government of Finland, I have signed it already. The Technical College in Ibadan and the one in Saki will be the first to be refurbished and it will happen starting from the 2025 budget.” Governor Makinde equally said his government would complete the Saki-Ogbooro-Igboho Road in honour of Pa Koleoso, who prevailed on him to see to the project to the end. He added that his government is aware of the fact that the economies of Saki East, Oorelope, Olorunsogo and Irepo Local Governments are intricately tied to Saki, so it would also extend the road from Igboho to Igbeti and Kisi. This was as the governor declared that the State Executive Council had also approved that the spur of the road that connects Agbonle in Saki East Local Government should also be fixed. Earlier in his message, the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, eulogised the uncommon virtues of the late Chief Koleoso, promising to work with the Oyo State Government to immortalise the late political icon, who according to him, contributed immensely to national growth and politics. The president was represented by the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr Zacchaeus Adedeji. The funeral service had in attendance dignitaries including National Assembly members as well as serving and former federal officials. On the entourage of the governor were the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Bayo Lawal and his wife, Ajibola; PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) and former deputy governor of Oyo State, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Hassim Gbolarunmi; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Honourable Justice Iyabo Yerima represented by Justice M.O Ishola; and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu. Others were co-chairman of the Oyo State Elders’ Council, Dr Saka Balogun; commissioners and other top government functionaries.

CNG-Powered Vehicles’s Safety Measures To Follow To Avoid Explosion

  The CNG-powered vehicle runs on compressed natural gas (CNG) as its fuel source instead of gasoline or diesel. CNG is primarily composed of methane and is considered a cleaner-burning alternative, producing fewer emissions compared to fossil fuels. These vehicles can be either designed specifically for CNG or modified to run on it. Below Are Key Features of CNG-Powered Vehicles Fuel Efficiency: CNG vehicles typically offer good fuel efficiency and lower operating costs due to the lower price of natural gas compared to gasoline. Environmental Benefits: CNG produces lower levels of harmful emissions, such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter, making it more environmentally friendly. Tanks and Storage: CNG is stored in high-pressure tanks, which must be made of strong materials to withstand the pressure and designed according to safety standards. Engine Modifications: Some vehicles may require modifications to their engines to run on CNG, though many manufacturers produce dedicated CNG models. Check-out Types of CNG-Powered Vehicles Below Passenger Cars: Many manufacturers produce CNG versions of standard cars Buses: Public transit agencies often use CNG buses for lower emissions. Trucks: CNG is increasingly used in commercial vehicles for freight transport. Follow these guidelines to avoid explosions and enhance safety with CNG vehicles,: 1. Regular Maintenance: Undergo regular checkups and maintenance sessions with authorized specialists to ensure that CNG system is operating properly. 2. Leak Checks: Regularly search for leaks of the fuel system components, such as tanks, valves, and hoses, with the help of visual inspections. If any part is le aking, a soapy water solution test should be done to see its location clearly, blowing up bubbles. 3. Tank Integrity: Making sure that the CNG tank looks fine and costs nothing thus, because it doesn’t have any dents, corrosion, or damage. Tanks must be run for tests when required by the law. 4. Proper Filling: Abide by the filling specs to ensure the tank is not overfilled and pressure is kept within the safe range when filling the tank. 5. Emergency Preparedness: Be prepared by knowing emergency procedures for a gas leak or fire. The fire extinguisher should have extinguishing efficiency when used on flammable gas fires and also be green in color. 6. Ventilation: Remember, the most important thing to consider here is if CNG tanks are safely stored, filled in well-ventilated places. This means no dangerous gases release from them. 7. Secure Components: All parts, including valves and connections, should be adequately clamped down to prevent any potential leaks. 8. Driver Training: Safety training for drivers and maintenance personnel should cover a variety of materials, including identifying the dangers and following the correct methods to handle these dangerous gases. 9. Regulatory Compliance: Adhere to all the local as well as national regulations concerning the operating and maintenance of CNG vehicles. Note that following the above mentioned safety measures is the only technique that can lead you to the level of safety where you do not have nearly any risk of explosion.

Keep Ruling Party In Check In The Interest Of Democracy, Makinde Charges Journalists

  Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde on Thursday charged media practitioners in the country to be alive to their responsibilities as watchdog of the society by keeping watch on the ruling party to prevent it from using its power to stifle democracy by crippling opposition. Governor Makinde gave the charge in his address at the opening ceremony of a 3-day retreat organised by the Press Corps of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) headquarters, held at House 11 Hotel, Jericho, Ibadan. “In Oyo State, we have a feedback system that enables the citizens to ask questions on all our activities. The platforms are regularly monitored and concerns are addressed as much as possible. Sometimes we tweak our decisions based on the feedback we get. We have emplaced a system of ensuring transparency in our operations as much as possible. “My administration established the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA), which has the mandate to investigate cases of corruption and mismanagement of public funds. ” We also established the Project Monitoring Agency, which is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that the state gets value for its money. All of these are targeted at ensuring that as much as it is practicable, we run a transparent administration. Earlier In his welcome address, the Chairman of the PDP Press Corps, Samuel Ogidan noted that the tasks before journalists in the evolving political environment have never been more crucial and challenging than now.” Ogidan described Governor Makinde as a media-friendly governor who understands the role of free and responsible journalism in strengthening democracy, fostering transparency and empowering citizens. According to him, as journalists covering politics, we serve as watchdogs of democracy. Our responsibility is immense, and so are the pressures and obstacles we face. The fast pace of political events, the complexity of governance, and the shifting nature of public opinion demand that we stay sharp, informed, and adaptable. “This retreat provides the much-needed pause from our daily grind, giving us the space to reflect on our craft, sharpen our skills, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of journalism in Nigeria. “We all know that investigative journalism remains a cornerstone of political reporting. It is our responsibility to dig deeper and uncover the truth that is often buried beneath layers of bureaucracy and deception. “However, the resources and time needed for thorough investigations are often scarce. “During this retreat, we will focus on sharpening our skills in investigative reporting, learning new techniques, and how best to utilize available tools. We will delve into methods of fact checking stories, authenticating sources, and data to ensure that we remain the trusted voice our audiences rely on for political analysis and updates. “It is also important to note that social media has revolutionized how news is shared and consumed. While it provides an opportunity for us to reach wider audiences quickly, it also presents new challenges. During this retreat, we will explore how to use social media platforms responsibly to break news, amplify reports, and engage with readers while maintaining professional standards. “Our goal is that each of us leave here better equipped to navigate the challenges of journalism and continue upholding the values of integrity. accuracy, and objectivity in our reports. He urged participants to take advantage of the retreat for frank discussions that will open networking opportunities ahead. “This retreat is for our growth, our reflection, and our empowerment” he said In their goodwill messages, Assistant Director, Publicity of the PDP Press Corp, Richard Ihediwa and Mrs Gloria Thomas of the Voice of Nigeria, both lauded the initiative promising to make best use of the opportunity of the retreat to acquire new skills and develop better capacity for the task ahead.

OONI @ 50: Palace Unveils Programme Of Events

  The Ile-Oodua Palace of The Ooni Of Ife, Ile-Ife has on Tuesday unveiled the final programme of the events celebrating and commemorating the 50th birthday anniversary of the Arole Oduduwa Olofin Adimula, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, The Ooni Of Ife. This second phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary programme is contained in a statement signed by the Director of Media & Public Affairs to the Ooni, on behalf of the palace and the planning committee. According to the statement, the second phase and final activities will kickstart on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, with a charity support programme organised by the Birthday Planning Committee at the Solid Rock Orphanage Home, Ibadan Road, Ile-Ife by 1pm. Thursday, October 17th, 2024, will witness the birthday grand finale when His Imperial Majesty will be host top dignitaries including fellow traditional rulers, guests, family members and other personalities at the Ojaja Arena, Ife Grand Resort, Ile-Ife by 2pm. The birthday activities will be rounded off with a Special Jumu’ah Prayer at the Ife Central Mosque Enuwa, Ile-Ife by 1pm. on Friday, October 18, 2024 as well as a Thanksgiving Service, at the St. paul’s Anglican Church, Aiyegbaju, Ile-Ife by 10am. on Sunday, October 20, 2024. It will be recalled the 50th birthday anniversary of the Ooni had started a week ago with special traditional prayers (IWURE) offered by a league of over 30 traditional chief priests led by the Araba Agbaye and Obadio of Ife at the Ooni’s palace, this was followed by commissioning of The 2..7 kilometer road, equipped with solar-powered streetlights which Ooni Ogunwusi named after the Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi TINUBU and donated to the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. Also same day, a standard hostel complex OJAJA HOSTEL constructed by the Ooni was unveiled by the visiting wife of the President who was also double honoured by the Ooni with a Pavilion named Oluremi Tinubu Pavilion within the hostel complex on Thursday, October 10, 2024. There have been series of activities of the first phase of the Ooni’s 50th birthday anniversary including the Maiden Convocation ceremonies of OJAJA University, Eyenkorin, Kwara state attended by top government functionaries including Governor Hope Uzodima of Imo state, eminent academic scholars, captains of industries and top Nigerian traditional rulers including Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar of Sokoto, Emir Zulu Gambari of Ilorin, Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Laoye, Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole and a host of others where Ooni Ogunwusi as Chancellor and proprietor of the university called for a holistic review of education policies to meet up with contemporary challenges of Nigeria.

2024 World Food Day: Makinde Speaks On Moves To Boost Food Security In Oyo

  Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that his government will not relent in its effort to boost food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain in the state. He maintained that the government has taken several steps to promote agriculture and ensure food security in the state, including providing support to thousands of smallholder farmers and farmers’ associations. The governor stated this on Wednesday, October 16, at an event organised in commemoration of the 2024 World Food Day, held at the Parliament Building, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. Governor Makinde, who spoke through the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, was quoted by his Special Adviser (Media), Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju, to have promised that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for agricultural businesses to thrive, thereby increasing food security and safe functioning of the food supply chain. He added that the government would also continue to support research-driven agricultural businesses for the promotion of economic development and growth in the sector. The governor equally called on all stakeholders in the agriculture and food sector to complement the efforts of the government in promoting sustainable agriculture, reducing food waste and ensuring equitable access to nutritious food, in order to achieve a better and more sustainable food future in Oyo State. Noting the importance of the fundamental human right to food, the governor pledged more support to farmers across the state, saying that he would ensure that the theme for this year’s World Food Day, “right to food for a better life and better future,” becomes a reality. The governor explained that the theme serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to address issues of food insecurity and malnutrition. He urged all stakeholders in the agribusiness and food production and supply sector to adopt climate-resilient practices and innovative technologies to invest in sustainable agri-food systems. Presenting his paper on the theme for the year, a research professor from the Institute of Agriculture, Research and Training (IAR&T), Professor Samuel Olakojo, said that access to food is a necessity for every individual, stressing that its availability in abundance is the main right for survival. He charged the government to form and implement policies against climate change, insecurity, and make friendlier agricultural policies to include road infrastructure, credit facilities, periodic monitoring of farmers and curbing wastage of perishable farm produce. In his remarks, the Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development and member representing Ibarapa North/Central state constituency, Honourable Peter Ojedokun, urged all farmers in the state to intensify efforts in producing quality farm produce for consumers. He maintained that doing so would subdue poverty, hunger and promote healthy diets in the state. Earlier in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs Christianah Abioye, said the World Food Day presented another opportunity to appreciate Governor Makinde’s support to farmers in the state. She noted that the governor’s support has helped to ensure food sufficiency and also to find sustainable solutions to the problems of food security and poverty. The event had in attendance representatives of farmers’ associations from the 33 local government areas of Oyo State, the leadership of the farmers’ association in the state and the Baale Agbe-in-council, among others.