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Restanchor Foundation Hosts 13th Annual Educational Support Program In Ibadan, Empowers 620 Orphans, Vulnerable Children

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  By Adeleke Maria    The Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation under the leadership of its founder, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, celebrated the 13th Annual Educational Support Program, held at the Kristas Resources Centre in Ibadan. The event welcomed orphans and vulnerable children from different schools in Oyo State who received educational materials, food, and clothing as part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to their well-being. In his welcome address, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, founder of the Restanchor Foundation, highlighted the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting vulnerable children, offering not only educational resources but also emotional and psychological care. He highlighted this year’s theme, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression for Greatness is Attainable for the vulnerable,” underscoring the urgency of equipping children with resilience in the face of adversity.“Greatness is attainable for every child, no matter the challenges they face,” he said. He further emphasized the foundation’s mission to provide comprehensive care for the most vulnerable. “We are deeply committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive, no matter the challenges they face,” Adefioye stated. Founded in 2006, Restanchor Foundation now supports over 3,000 vulnerable children with a focus on education, emotional care, and nutritional support. Pastor Adefioye praised the ongoing support from sponsors, including Her Excellency Mrs. Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde, who donated over a million naira worth of foodstuffs, and the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), which regularly sponsors the payment of exam fees for WAEC and NECO. The event was graced by prominent figures, including, Oyo State’s Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu, who was represented by the Zonal Director Of Ibadan Zone 2 Education Office, WEMA Bank Area, Gbagi, Ibadan, Mrs Karunwi Maria Olufunke lauded the foundation’s impact. Adelabu emphasized that the state government takes the education and well-being of vulnerable children seriously, but also noted that philanthropic efforts, like those of Restanchor, are crucial to ensuring equitable education for all.He said, “I want to appreciate the Management and members of staff of this Foundation for making this day a reality where the less privileged and vulnerable people in our society are being celebrated, supported and made hopeful of living a meaningful life. “Without mincing words, what you are doing is great in the sight of the Lord and worth being highly appreciated because millions of young souls across the globe are withering and wailing in despair, finding no solace, no comfort, and no guardians to oversee them. Countless underprivileged orphans, abandoned and exploited, lead a life of solitude and helplessness with no one to guide them. Many of these orphans and vulnerable children are deprived of love, affection, and basic resources for survival. Once again, I appreciate the Visioner of this Foundation for the vision of providing a “better tomorrow” for these vulnerable ones. May the Almighty God reward you all. “I am pleased to inform this gathering at this auspicious occasion that the present administration in the State, under the leadership of His Excellence, Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, takes the affair of orphans, people living with disabilities and other vulnerable people with all the seriousness it deserves. “Support and education of vulnerable children as well as those with disabilities has always been accorded a place of pride by the State Government in terms of provision of teaching materials, manpower and financial support for special schools and homes in the State. “Oyo State is doing all these so that there can be equal educational opportunities to all her children without any bias or discrimination on the basis of their family background. Free and quality education is a right of every child. “However, demands in the education sector are so overhauling and capital intensive to the extent that no government can do it alone.Collaborative support from philanthropists and non-profit oriented NGOs like yours are welcome, if we are to record meaningful development in the sector. We therefore urge other individuals and NGO to borrow a leaf from this and partner with the State Government in raising education in Oyo State to an enviable standard. Adelabu stated. Similarly, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, praised the foundation’s work, emphasizing the importance of eliminating violence and depression in children’s lives. “It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness,” she stated. She further expressed her joy at witnessing the program’s success, reminding the children of their potential. “No matter the difficulties you face, there is greatness within you,” she told the beneficiaries. Mrs Toyin Balogun, who was ably represented by Mr Gbemileke Ojerinde Director Child Welfare at the Ministry commended Restanchor Foundation for their commitments towards the welfare of the vulnerable individuals in the society.She said, “I stand before you today with a heart full of joy and gratitude as we gather to celebrate the 13th Annual Educational Support Program for 620 orphans and vulnerable children. It is a great honor to be part of this noble initiative organized by RESTANCHOR Total Child Parenting Foundation, whose tireless efforts have uplifted the lives of countless children over the years. “The theme of this year’s event, “Shunning Violence, Removing Depression, for Greatness is Achievable for the Vulnerable,” speaks volumes about the challenges faced by these young ones and the collective responsibility we all share in ensuring that they are nurtured, protected, and given every opportunity to flourish.We must recognize that violence and depression are barriers that impede the full potential of vulnerable children. It is our duty as a society to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and empowered to dream big and achieve greatness. Violence in all its forms must be eradicated, whether it is physical, emotional, or psychological, for children to grow in an environment where love and care thrive. “To the 620 orphans and vulnerable children we celebrate today, I want to remind you that you are not alone. You are important, and your dreams matter. No matter the difficulties you may face, know … Read more

Oyo Gov’t Says 2025 Budget Will Reflect Stakeholders’ Submissions

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  Oyo State government, has concluded the year 2025 Budget Planning Consultative Meetings held across the six geo-political zones of the State. Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, while speaking at the closing ceremony of the sixth zonal stakeholders’ consultative engagement in Ibarapa zone, assured that the submissions of stakeholders at the meetings would reflect in the 2025 budget. The Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, said that the government is not relenting in its efforts to make farming more profitable for farmers in the state. Governor Makinde noted that his administration had supported farmers across the 33 local government areas of the state with farm inputs and fertilizer for improved farm yields during the planting season. He called on farmers who are yet to identify with a recognized farmers’ association to do so, promising that more benefits and support await them. On education, the governor emphasized the need for anyone not to play politics of any form with education for the development of the sector. He assured the people of the zone that successful applicants in the ongoing teachers recruitment would be employed in due course, adding that his administration will not compromise standards in the recruitment process. Governor Makinde reiterated the commitment of his administration to security of lives and property, while admonishing the residents of the state to assist the government and security agencies with useful information in relation to security challenges in their localities for security personnel to act accordingly. Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Prof. Musibau Babatunde appreciated the people of the zone for their cooperation and understanding. He admonished them to contribute more to the development of their zone particularly the education and agricultural sectors.

Oyo Govt Temporarily Shuts Down Alao-Akala Highway To Install Weighbridges

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  Oyo State Government has shut down temporarily the 76.67km Alao-Akala Memorial Highway to construct weighbridges on it. Commissioner for Public Works, Infrastructure and Transport, Professor Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin, who disclosed this on Thursday said the move was necessitated by the desire to preserve the road. He said when completed, the weighbridges would be deployed to determine the weight of heavy duty trucks plying the road, adding that while trailers within the permissible weights would be allowed to use the road after paying the stipulated fees, heavy duty trucks with excess weight would be turned back. The Commissioner stated that fee payments on the road would only be applicable to trailers. He maintained that the move is to protect the new road designed to serve as a link between Ogbomoso and Iseyin as well as other parts of the state and the country, noting that the weighbridges will help to reduce the burden on the road and enhance its longevity. According to Shangodoyin, though the design and construction of the road were done with quality in mind, it is a Trunk B Road that should be plied by heavy duty trucks and articulated vehicles that are within permissible weight.

Oyo Denies Plans To Revoke Land At Ajoda New Town

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  The Oyo State Housing Corporation has denied allegations that it intends to revoke any land on the Ajoda new town estate, Ibadan from encroachers. Some illegal occupants on the land, accused the corporation of intention to revoke their parcels of land. In a press briefing on Wednesday, the Corporation’s chairman, Demola Omotosho said contrary to what was being portrayed, about 4,000 encroachers have been identified. According to the Chairman, the encroachers breached every provision as contained in the Act that established the corporation. He said contrary to insinuations, the encroachers bought land on the estate, without government’s approval from swindlers, who are could not provide land titles to them. Mr. Omotosho however added that the Corporation, through the magnanimity of the Governor, is making provisions to incorporate the encroachers, numbering over 4,000 in its development plan. “Over 4,000 encroachers are in Ajoda new town, as we speak. They bought land from fictitious people who could not give them land titles. Magnanimously, the corporation will incorporate them in the scheme, so they can become official tenants of the corporation.” The Chairman insisted that the corporation is set to rejig the allocations on the estate, in the interest of the corporation and its allotees. “There are so many challenges we are facing in developing the estate, but we will surmount them, as they come. However, we do not intend to revoke allotees, rather there will be a resettlement.”, he said. “Allotees holding on to allocations, like souvenirs will not allow estates to develop, anywhere in the world. The Law that sets up OYHC, is emphatic on that…you lose your land if you refuse to develop. Some of them bought lands, as far back as 14-15 years of not developing their land. Some who have not paid statutory amounts to be paid, actually stand risk of losing their allocations.” Omotosho said according to the Act of Oyo State House of Assembly that established the corporation, it’s primary duty is to build affordable homes for the public. He said the Corporation is making efforts to build more affordable houses in all estates across Oyo, Iseyin, Ogbomoso, Saki, Okeho and Ibarapa. “We want to do more to achieve this core assignment. We came up with a vision to build more affordable houses in all estates across Oyo, Iseyin, Ogbomoso, Saki Okeho and Ibarapa”, he said. Starting with Ibadan, Mr. Omotosho said the Corporation intends to build Two thousand, five hundred (2,500) housing units within one year at Ajoda new town. He said the estate is specially located at the dove tail of the circular road, while the Ibadan airport, which is experiencing an upgrade is about 8-10mins drive from the Ajoda new town. Speaking on the history of the estate, Omotosho said Ajoda new town was established 47 years ago by former military administrator, Gen. David Jembewon. He said the Ajoda New town estate, is sitting on 5,000 hectres of land, but has been encroached by land grabbers. Mr. Omotosho therefore said the Corporation will leverage on the vast land in Ajoda, by laying foundation for Ajoda-Gulf estate, which will attract elites to the estate. He said the estate will come with a Gulf school, and a Gulf course, as well as a recreational park. Mr. Omotosho said in few weeks, the corporation will build a shopping mall at Olubadan estate, opposite Gbagi market with over 300 lock up shops. He applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for developing Oyo State, and improving the economy of the State, especially the capital city. Omotosho added that the previous leadership at the corporation opened up Ajoda new town with tarred roads, hinting that “this gave us the impetus to develop the Ajoda new town estate, further.” “Beautiful estates have sprung up in Oyo State, and these are in efforts to grow the State”, he said. He therefore solicited the support of all stakeholders to disseminate the information, adding that the corporation is keen on providing affordable houses.

Oyo Speaker, Ogundoyin Holds Strategic Meetings With Ibarapa East Constituents To Strengthen PDP Ties

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By Adeleke Maria  In a move to strengthen the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) in Ibarapa East Local Government and enhance unity and cooperation amongst members, the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has held a series of strategic meetings with leaders and members of the party. In the last four days, Hon. Ogundoyin met with PDP stakeholders and constituents at different venues across Eruwa and Lanlate towns. These meetings brought together key party leaders, including Chief Adewale Atanda Alase, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, Alh. Kasali Morakinyo, Chief Abegunde, Dr. Adedokun Daniel, Alh Adebisi Sikiru (Party Chairman), Alh Kamorudeen Adeyemi (Senatorial Chairman), and Mrs. Adebisi Yetunde, among others. Hon. Ogundoyin emphasized the importance of unity, urging members to prioritize cooperation and avoid spreading false information that could harm the party’s reputation. He stressed that the party’s strength lies in its ability to work together towards a common goal and cautioned PDP members in the Local Government against unnecessary bickering over sharing of party political posts and positions. According to the Speaker, if PDP in the Local Government wishes to remain stronger and consolidate on its political gains, it must close ranks, speak with one voice, and never allow internal wranglings to fester beyond control. While admitting that there will occasionally be misunderstandings and unnecessary instigation of crisis by some unscrupulous individuals, the Speaker urged the leadership of the party in the council to always engage in dialogue and consultation in resolving issues. “It was a 4-day productive meetings and engagements with leaders, elders and party faithful in Ibarapa East Local Government. I am happy that PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government has again laid the foundation for a stronger and a more united front. The meetings were productive, with various issues raised and addressed. “There were clarifications and records were set straight. Issues likely to cause dis-affection and disunity were discussed and resolved. Aggrieved members were pacified and contentious issues settled amicably. This move is important to avoid division and crisis which could undermine the strength and success of our party in future elections in our Constituency.” Oyo Speaker said. At the end of the meetings, PDP members in Ibarapa East State Constituency reaffirmed their loyalty to Chief Adewale Atanda Alase as the overall Leader of the party in Ibarapaland and agreed to continue working together for the upliftment of the party and all its members.

Makinde Restates Commitment To Judiciary At 2024/2025 Legal Year Church Service

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  By Adeleke Maria    Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde has reiterated his dedication to the judiciary, emphasizing the importance of a more efficient administration of justice. Governor Makinde reiterated this commitment at a Special Church Service to mark the beginning of the 2024/2025 Legal Year of the Oyo State Judiciary. The Governor who was represented by the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin took the first lesson from Zephaniah 2 :1-15 at the Service. Engr. Seyi Makinde reflected on the past year’s achievements and challenges, highlighting significant legal developments, legislative reforms, and judicial decisions that have shaped Nigeria’s legal landscape. A significant milestone in our commitment to the rule of law is the establishment of the Rule of Law Authority, headed by the Honourable Justice A.A. Aderemi (Rtd). This institution will play a pivotal role in overseeing the enforcement of laws, ensuring accountability, transparency, and fairness in the administration of justice. “I am pleased to announce that our administration remains steadfast in its support for the justice sector. Our commitment in providing necessary resources and infrastructure underscores our belief in a strong and independent justice system.” “The State Government has recently approved the purchase of 10 vehicles for new Judges, ensuring a full complement of judicial vehicles. Furthermore, there has been a substantial 300% increase in judges’ salaries and allowances, aiming to encourage greater efficiency and timeliness in judgment delivery. To complement the work of judges, the State Government has approved the appointment of 40 State Counsel to the Ministry of Justice. This will enhance the Ministry’s capacity to effectively represent the State in all courts within Oyo State.” “As we embark on this new legal year, let us renew our dedication to the noble profession of law and our commitment to upholding the rule of law. Let us strive for fair and impartial application of the law and ensure that justice is administered without fear or favour.” Governor Makinde urged legal practitioners to leverage technology to enhance efficiency and access to justice. He emphasized the importance of exploring innovative solutions to address challenges and ensure the legal profession remains relevant and responsive to societal needs. The Governor quoted Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., stressing the government’s crucial role in creating and maintaining a just and equitable society.

In Oyo, Makinde’s Leadership Trumps Governance | By Sulaimon Olanrewaju

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  Governance is often confused with leadership but the two are poles apart. Governance is routine and predictable but leadership is innovative and dynamic. Governance is maintaining the status quo but leadership is about extending the frontiers. Governance is a structure that provides a framework for running a system; it identifies roles, establishes orders, stipulates sanctions and postulates the reward system. Governance facilitates the smooth running of a state. So, good governance is about doing the expected; it is about following the procedure; it is about keeping the hands off the till and ensuring the effective management of available resources. But leadership is much more than that. Leadership is about bursting out of routine, it is about challenging the status quo, it is about changing the course of history, it is about shaping and reshaping geography, it is about unleashing the power of a people to have new dreams, new hopes and new expectations. Leadership is bridging the gap between possibilities and realities. It is unlocking a people’s innate abilities to actualise their potential. The defining difference between governance and leadership is the size of the vision behind each; while governance’s focus is the moment, leadership’s vision encompasses both the present and the future. Leadership weighs the impact of every action by its effect on the future. Leadership dreams big. Leadership aims high. Leadership is audacious. Leadership is ambitious. Leadership is intentional. Leadership knocks off the limit. Leadership is neither deterred by difficulties nor dissuaded by impossibilities. Where leadership reigns, impossibility is crushed. refuel in Ibadan, thus providing an alternative to airports in Nigeria and other West African countries. The facility improvement resulted in an increase in the number of airlines operating at the airport as well as the number of flights in and out of the airport. Thus, the tethered giant started showing signs of greatness gradually. Therefore, upgrading the airport to international standard is a natural follow-up to the investment of the state in the airport. In the same vein, having an international airport is a sequel to what Governor Makinde has already put in place in the state; from developing the state’s human capital to creating various opportunities for the citizens, to strengthening small and medium scale businesses, supporting smallholder farmers, connecting all the zones with good roads, creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, investing in the development of agribusiness and positioning the state to take advantage of its tourism sites as well as its cultural heritage. This is because aviation is an enabler of trade, a harbinger of investment, a promoter of agriculture, a facilitator of manufacturing and an ally of tourism. So, aviation is a major driver of development. Experts have opined that upgrading the airport would increase the state’s visibility, accessibility and viability, which could attract investment capital and stimulate growth in various sectors of the economy. They also state that the presence of an international airport in the state would boost tourism-related ventures, real estate development, and other business opportunities. They add that the international airport will lead to the creation of job opportunities and boost regional and international trade in the state. Explaining the rationale behind the upgrade, Makinde, while speaking at the inauguration of the Bimbo Adekanmbi-led committee which was constituted to midwife the airport upgrade, said upgrading the Ladoke Akintola Airport to international standard would support his administration’s drive to expand the economy of the state through agribusiness. He added: “The decision to convert our existing local airport into an international airport was not a hasty one; we are not engaged in a let-me-do-this-because-other-governors-are-doing-it-competition. “This is a well-thought-out decision based on science, logic and data. This vision is already four years old and we laid the groundwork in our first tenure.” He added, “We have preliminary data to support this move and part of the work this committee will be doing is providing us with the definite numbers through a comprehensive passenger data analysis and ensuring that all the groundwork is laid to fulfil requirements for building an international airport as stipulated by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).” While speaking on the benefits of having an international airport during the ground-breaking ceremony of the upgrade the other Wednesday, Governor Makinde said, “This airport will connect Oyo State to the global market. It will improve ease of doing business, bringing investments into agribusiness, manufacturing and technology sectors and positioning Ibadan as a true regional business hub.” The governor, who listed MRO and cargo facilities as some of the features the upgraded airport would parade, described the project as a strategic investment that would be delivered on time and within budget. However, while the bulk of the citizenry is having a kick out of the prospect of having an international airport, the first phase of which the Governor promised would be ready within 12 months, some people in the state are kicking against the project. In the estimation of those people, an international airport in Ibadan would not serve the majority of the citizens, so it should not be the priority of the state. For such people, a retreat into history would be quite helpful. When Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as Premier of Western Nigeria, established the Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) in 1959, there was no market for the services of the station in Ibadan or elsewhere on the continent. As a matter of fact, the number of television sets in the country was less than 20. So, there was resistance to the move as some people felt that the television station should not be the priority of the region. But because Awolowo saw into the future, he went against the grain and set up the television station, which was the first in Africa. Today, tens of millions of people across the African continent earn their living from television. Today, Ibadan is regarded as the home of television in Africa. This is one of the reasons Oyo State is regarded as the pacesetter in the country. In the same … Read more

From Governor Seyi Makinde (GSM) To President Seyi Makinde(PSM): 2027 Perspective

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Wale Ajani Governor Seyi Makinde’s performance in Oyo State can be measured through specific indicators: As Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, the political landscape is charged with discussions about potential candidates. Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State stands out as a compelling contender, supported by a track record of governance characterized by empirical data and logical reasoning. His achievements in various sectors, combined with a clear contrast to the current APC administration’s challenges, position him favorably for both the PDP primaries and the general election 1. Infrastructure Development: The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports a 30% increase in infrastructure projects in Oyo State since Makinde took office in 2019. Key projects include major road reconstructions that have improved connectivity, resulting in an average 15% reduction in travel times. This contrasts sharply with the APC-led federal government, which has faced criticism for a decline in road construction rates, as reported by the World Bank. 2. Healthcare Access: The introduction of the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme has led to a *”40% increase in healthcare access*”, covering over **300,000 residents**. In comparison, a recent survey indicates that **70% of Nigerians** still lack access to basic healthcare services under the current federal administration, illustrating a significant gap in healthcare provision. 3. Educational Advancements: Data from the National Education Data Survey (NEDS) reveals that Oyo State has improved primary school enrollment rates by **25%** since Makinde’s administration began. Conversely, national data under the APC government shows a **10% decrease** in secondary school enrollment rates, largely due to rising costs and inadequate funding. 4. Economic Sustainability: One of Makinde’s notable achievements is the **timely payment of salaries** to state workers, maintained at **100% compliance** throughout his tenure. This practice contributes to local economic stability, as evidenced by increased consumer spending in the region. In contrast, reports indicate that **40% of state workers** in some regions under APC rule have experienced salary delays of up to three months. 5. Student Support Initiatives: Makinde’s administration has launched scholarship programs benefiting over **5,000 students**, aimed at reducing financial burdens and increasing higher education enrollment by **20%**. In contrast, the APC government has struggled to implement effective nationwide educational support, contributing to rising dropout rates. 6. Human Capital Development: The governor has prioritized vocational training and skill acquisition, with over **10,000 residents** participating in these programs. This focus addresses unemployment and enhances economic productivity, contrasting sharply with the national youth unemployment rate of **33%** under the APC administration. Strategic Political Positioning Makinde’s political strategy within the PDP enhances his candidacy, supported by empirical data: 1. Party Loyalty and Unity: A poll by the African Polling Institute indicates that **65% of PDP members** view Makinde favorably for fostering party unity. In contrast, only **40% of APC members** express confidence in their leadership due to ongoing internal divisions. 2. Regional Influence: The Southwest region accounts for approximately **15% of Nigeria’s total registered voters**. Makinde’s prominence in this region has resulted in a **40% increase in party membership** since 2021. Meanwhile, APC support in the region has declined, with a **20% decrease in voter registration** linked to dissatisfaction with federal governance. 3. Youth Engagement: With over **50% of Nigeria’s population** under 30, engaging youth is critical. Makinde’s youth empowerment programs have led to a **35% increase in youth participation** in governance initiatives. In contrast, a Gallup poll shows that **60% of respondents aged 18-30** express disillusionment with the current administration, largely due to unaddressed unemployment issues. A Vision for Nigeria Makinde’s vision for Nigeria is both ambitious and grounded in empirical reasoning: 1. Economic Diversification: The World Bank projects that Nigeria could achieve **6% annual economic growth** through diversification away from oil dependency. Makinde’s focus on agriculture and technology is supported by studies indicating that investments in these sectors could create millions of jobs. In contrast, the APC’s reliance on oil revenue has resulted in an average GDP growth rate of only **2%** over the past three years. 2. Security and Stability: Rising security challenges require effective leadership. Makinde’s proactive governance has resulted in a **20% decrease in crime rates** in Oyo State. In comparison, the APC government has struggled with a **40% rise in violent incidents** nationwide since 2021, as reported by the Nigeria Security Tracker. 3. Good Governance and Accountability: Transparency International ranks Nigeria poorly in corruption perception, with the country falling to **150th out of 180** in the Corruption Perceptions Index. Makinde’s commitment to transparency and accountability enhances his appeal among citizens disillusioned by corruption and mismanagement. In conclusion, as the 2027 presidential election approaches, Governor Seyi Makinde’s combination of empirical governance achievements, strategic political positioning, and an inspiring vision for Nigeria positions him as a formidable candidate for both the PDP primaries and the general election. His ability to connect with the electorate through data-driven policies and transparent governance establishes him not just as a candidate but as a viable alternative to the current administration’s challenges. In a time when the nation seeks transformative leadership, Seyi Makinde stands ready to answer that call, representing the aspirations of millions of Nigerians.

2024 Teachers’ Day: Makinde Commits To N70,000 Minimum Wage For Teachers

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  By Adeleke Maria   Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has announced that his administration will begin paying the N70,000 minimum wage after resolving the matter of consequential salary adjustments. This was as the governor announced the extension of the N25,000 wage award to workers and N15,000 wage award to pensioners by another three months. The extension, the governor noted, is to cover the period that the negotiation on the consequential adjustment will ast, noting that the payment of the wage award will stop upon the conclusion of negotiations to effectively implement the minimum wage. Governor Makinde made this announcement on Saturday during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Celebration with the theme: “Valuing Teachers’ Voices Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” held at the NUT (ENDWELL) Model College Sports Complex, Owode Housing Estate, Apata, Ibadan. He said: “On the minimum wage, negotiation will start next week and we will pay the N70,000 minimum wage. But the consequential adjustment is about to be negotiated. The NLC and our team will sit down to discuss it.” Governor Makinde, who lauded teachers in the state for their massive support to him during the last election and their immeasurable contributions to building the state, said his government will continue to prioritise the welfare of teachers and all civil servants in the state so that they would continue to be productive. Noting that education remains one of the major pillars of his government, the governor promised to fix more education infrastructure so that teachers can continue to impart knowledge in a conducive environment in order to guarantee a better future for the state. “I want to say kudos to the teachers. Everywhere I went during the campaign, you mobilised yourselves and supported us wholeheartedly. So, I appreciate you and I say thank you. “We are going through challenges as a country. We have issues of minimum wage and fuel price but I want to appeal to you to say that tough times don’t last but tough people do. We will outlast these challenges we are faced with.” The governor added, “Any country that wants to develop must educate her people. “So, for us in Oyo State, we will continue to specially look after our teachers, because they are dealing with our future. “You teachers, you have to be put where you belong. So, I thank you for your support and dedication to duty. We still have a long way to go. “When we came in, with the UBEC grant and matching fund we used to give them, we were spending about N3 billion every year on infrastructure. So, for the past five years, we have done about N15 billion but it is not enough – just like a drop in the ocean. “The gap we have to fill, when we did the analysis a few years ago, it was around N40 billion but I can tell you now that it will be close to N70 billion. “If we continue to spend N3 billion yearly for the next 15 years, we still won’t cover the gap on ground. So apart from SUBEB, we will have education intervention funds of a minimum of N10 billion every year towards bridging the infrastructural gap in education. “And of course we will employ more teachers and we will put them in a conducive learning environment that would guarantee better outcomes for our students.” The governor, while commissioning a block of 10 classrooms built by the NUT at the NUT Model School, maintained that his administration’s commitment to fixing inner roads remained on course and that it will work on inner roads within the Owode Housing Estate. Earlier in his welcome address, the NUT State Chairman, Comrade Raji Ismail, thanked the governor for his “unprecedented achievements in the education sector and for being mindful of teachers’ welfare through his encouragement of career progression for primary school teachers, regular payment of salaries, promotions, payment of leave bonuses and healthcare insurance, among others.” Also in his goodwill message, the chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Comrade Kayode Martins, assured that the governor will do everything necessary to implement the minimum wage as expected.

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