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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

Nigerian Governor Donates $10,000 To Rebuild Niger Republic 200-Year-Old Mosque

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  Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has donated $10,000 for the rebuilding of a 200 year-old mosque in Damagaram, Niger Republic. Special Adviser on Political Matters to the governor, Alhaji Ya’u Umar Gwajo-gwaj, who delivered the donation, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Katsina on Friday. According to Gwajo-Gwajo, who is also the Turankin Damagaran, the historic Mosque which collapsed recently, will be reconstructed. He added that the Sultan of Damagaram, Alhaji Abubakar Sanda-Umau, expressed appreciation to the governor for the donation which he said would enable the construction of a standard Mosque. “The gesture will further cement the long-standing relationship between Katsina and Damagaram, which has been flourishing for over 500 years,” Gwajo-Gwajo quoted the Sultan as saying. Gwajo-gwajo told the Emir that Gov. Radda gave the donation for the rebuilding of the Mosque, owing to his passion for social and spiritual development of the people. “The governor is passionate about the social and spiritual development of the people of Damagaram and Niger Republic as a whole. “This Mosque will contribute towards instilling Islamic moral discipline in our people, and it will assist in addressing many social ills in our society. “We are one people separated by artificial borders, this is why we should strengthen bilateral relations between our people and address our challenges collectively,“ Gwajo-gwajo said. (NAN)

Atiku Nickname Tinubu ‘T-Pain’ Over Fuel Price Crisis

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  On Wednesday, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) raised the pump price of fuel from N897 per liter to N1,030 in Abuja; from N855 to N998 in Lagos; N1, 070 in North-East; N1,025 in other South-West states; N1,045 in South-East and N1,075 in South-South. This triggered reactions among Nigerians who asked Tinubu to work towards reversing the increment. Comrade Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), had asked if increasing pump prices is what the Tinubu administration lives for. Weighing in on the conversation on Thursday, Atiku who was up against Tinubu in last year’s election, took to X. “The haphazard and disingenuous approach of the current administration to fuel subsidy management has been the reason we are in this current economic crisis in the country. As things stand, there will be no let up in the escalating inflation rate, which is drowning the material well-being of Nigerians. It is even more worrying that T-pain is undisturbed by the hardship in the country.” Although T-Pain is the stage name of an American artiste, social media critics have used it to describe Tinubu over the cost of living crisis. Upon his return from an overseas trip last month, Tinubu visited Maiduguri, Borno State capital, to condole with the people over the devastating flood. However, a social media user threw a jibe at the president. Tweeting via @SadiqGSadiq, the social media user wrote, “T-Pain has landed in Maiduguri with his new 150bn jet to promise the flood victims bags of rice.” Meanwhile, the Federal Government has said it should not be held responsible for the latest hike in petrol prices. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the NNPCL hiked prices in response to prevailing circumstances in the energy industry. Mohammed said the oil company did not act on any instruction from the federal government, as the government can no longer fix prices of petroleum products, in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He said with the subsidy regime ending in May 2023, the NNPCL had only been paying differential to keep the price within the range it had been, but the company said it could no longer absorb the losses.

Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0 Is More Than Food Festival – Chef Wendy

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By Adeleke Maria    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wendy’s Kitchen, who also doubles as the Convener of “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill, Chef Chinwendu Festus Wendy, popularly known as Chef Wendy has affirmed that 2024 edition of the culinary event themed “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0” will be more that just a food festival. “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill is a culinary event that started in the year 2023 with the aim of showcasing local talents in culinary business, as well as positioning Ibadan City to the world as a culinary powerhouse within Nigeria’s growing fast food industry. As of 2023, Ibadan was valued at a staggering N250 billion ($602.5 million) by the Association of Fast-Food Confectioners of Nigeria (AFFCON). The maiden edition of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill was colourful and successful, as over 5,000 food enthusiasts, photographers, videographers, brand managers and ambassadors, event planners, chefs, food vendors, fun seekers among others graced the event that was held peacefully at the Ibadan Polo Club, Eleyele, Ibadan thereby making it an annual event. In a statement issued by Wendy’s Kitchen Boss, Chef Wendy affirmed that the 2024 edition of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill codename “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0” will be more than just a food festival. Wendy noted that Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill has become an annual event, stressing that the 2.0 edition will be another celebration of flavours and culinary talents in Ibadan and its environs. Maintaining that her team is ready to take Ibadan by storm, as over 10,000 food enthusiasts have been invited across the country and are expected to savour the city’s finest cuisines. She stated that, “This event which is scheduled to hold on Sunday, December 1st 2024, at the Ibadan Recreation Club Eleyele is going to be more than just a food festival, aimed to serve as a springboard for local chefs while positioning Ibadan as a culinary powerhouse within Nigeria’s burgeoning fast-food industry. “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill is on a mission to create a platform for talented chefs to emerge and establish Ibadan as a culinary force to be reckoned with in Nigeria. “This second edition of Ibadan Chop ‘n’ Chill” promises to be a feast for both the medium and upper classes in the society, as it will offer an irresistible assortment of culinary delights, workshops, competitions, and entertainment. The event will feature an extensive selection of delectable dishes from both local and international cuisines. “Promising that indigenous and international chefs will all gather under one roof, ready to delight and entice taste buds. Expert chefs will lead engaging cooking workshops, revealing their culinary styles and demonstrate how effortless it is to craft exceptional dishes.” “Ibadan’s beloved radio presenters will step into the culinary ring in an intense cook-off, competing fiercely for the prestigious culinary crown. That’s not all, get to explore food and lifestyle exhibits that showcase the latest in culinary innovations, from modern kitchen gadgets to mouthwatering delights.” “Food photography enthusiasts will have the chance to shine in the Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill food photography contest, while live music and captivating performances will maintain the festive atmosphere throughout the day.” “Purified Entertainment Company Limited, a brand known for showbiz and promotion of upcoming music talents, is one of our partners for this event and all their artistes will be on ground performing live to entertain our guests and also to make the event a memorable one.” “We are also seeking partnership deals from brands who are interested in showcasing their products, while our doors are open for sponsorship from various organizations. Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0 promises something exciting for everyone. Interested organizations and brands can reach out to us through our various social media platforms.” Wendy stated.

FG Increases Price Of Driver’s License And Plate Number, See New Price

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  The Federal Government has announced that from November 1, 2024, vehicle owners will be expected to pay N21,000 and N15,000, respectively, to obtain a five-year and three-year driver’s license. The new rates followed a review recently approved by the Joint Tax Board (JTB). Also, a revised price to obtain a five-year and three-year driver’s license for a motorcycle/tricycle will be N11,000 and N7,000 respectively.

NULGE Declares Date Direct Allocation To LGs Will Start

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  By the end of October, the Federal Government will implement the direct transfer of funds into the accounts of local government councils nationwide. The President of the National Union of Local Government Employees, Ambali Olatunji, disclosed this during an interview. This move marks the full rollout of financial autonomy for local governments, ensuring they receive their allocations without interference from state governments. This decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s July ruling, which declared that state governors lack the authority to control funds designated for local councils. The court ruled that only democratically elected local government administrations are constitutionally recognized, rendering state-appointed caretaker committees invalid. While some governors had sought time to organize council elections, they were granted a three-month period for this purpose. As the implementation deadline approaches, local governments are expected to gain better access to funds, enhancing their capacity to deliver essential services and drive local development. Olatunji said, “Come October 11, the implementation of financial autonomy for local government will take full effect. We hope that by the end of October, local government allocations will directly reach council accounts across the country.” Olatunji added that NULGE had submitted a position paper on how local government councils should be administered to the technical committee set up by the Federal Government for the implementation of financial autonomy. He urged the federal and state governments to put in place measures to ensure that the funds were not diverted by the council administrators.

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.

Lagos Govt Sets To Ban Pure Water, Single-Use Plastics, Others

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  The Lagos State Government has announced plan to ban the circulation of single-use plastics and sachet water starting January 2025. The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, confirmed the upcoming ban during a stakeholders’ workshop on implementing the ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics (SUPs) for packaging. The move is part of the government’s strategy to introduce policy guidelines for managing plastic waste, whose goal is to create a healthier and more sustainable environment. However, stakeholders have urged the government to consider a phased implementation rather than an outright ban. They believe this will ensure better compliance and ease the burden during current economic challenges. Mosaku Ololade, Chairperson of the Lagos chapter of the Association for Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP), emphasised the association’s willingness to cooperate with the government. “We’ve been engaging with the state government and educating our members on the planned ban,” Ololade said. She added that ATWAP has over 2,000 members in Lagos employing more than 10,000 workers and called on the government to phase in the ban to give businesses enough time to adapt. “There are many measures that need to be in place before full enforcement,” she noted. Recall that Lagos State had earlier banned the use of Styrofoam in government establishments and across the metropolis in January 2024. This decision followed the rising issue of plastic waste and its harmful effects on the environment.

21 feared dead, 11 Rescued As Boats Collide In Lagos

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  About 21 passengers are feared dead in a boat accident that occurred at Imore town in the Amuwo-Odofin area of Lagos State. The state police spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed this on Tuesday in Lagos. Mr Hundeyin said that the police received a distress call about the accident on Monday. He said, “A distress call was received at Ilashe Division that two unregistered passenger boats, both having 16 passengers onboard, collided at the middle of the lagoon at Imore Town. In the process, the boats capsized and passengers got drowned with the goods.’’ The spokesperson said that emergency responders consequently stormed the scene. “Teams of conventional/marine policemen, local divers and other emergency responders were swiftly mobilised to the scene where 11 of the passengers were rescued with injuries. The injured were rushed to the Navy Hospital, Navy Town, Alakija, for medical attention, while search and rescue operation is being intensified with a view to recovering bodies of victims,” the spokesperson said. According to him, investigation is ongoing in the matter.

Oyo Assembly Receives Makinde’s Supplementary Budget

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  The Oyo State House of Assembly has taken the first reading of the Finance Bill, 2024 of the supplementary budget of seven nine billion, seven hundred and thirty million naira (N79,730,000,00:00) only. The bill was read on Tuesday the plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin. The House also considered the first reading of Oyo State Supplementary Appropriation Realignment Bill, 2024. The bills were contained in the two letters forwarded to the House by Governor Seyi Makinde. Hon. Ogundoyin said the supplementary and realignment became necessary to address emerging priorities in the context of the current economic challenges and ensure effective implementation of critical key projects across the state. According to him, it will also take cognizance of the payment of the newly approved minimum for the state civil and public service. If the supplementary budget eventually passed, the 2024 budget will now increase from four hundred and thirty-eight billion, four hundred and forty-seven million, eight hundred and seventy-eight thousand, five hundred and forty-eight naira, thirty-nine kobo only (#438,447,878,548.39) to five hundred and seventeen billion, seven hundred and eighty-four million, eight hundred and seventy-eight thousand, five hundred and forty-eight naira, thirty-nine kobo only (#517,784,878,548:39) for both recurrent and capital expenditures Meanwhile, some of the Ministries, Departments and Parastatals (MDAs) featured in the supplementary budget realignment include Fire Service Agency, Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project, Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency, Sustainable Development Goals, and Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. Others are Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, First Technical University, Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, Ministry of Health, Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency, Water Corporation of Oyo State, the Judiciary, Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources among others.

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