Oyo Governor Urges Nigerian Air Force To Expand Operations In The State (PHOTOS)

  Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has expressed a strong desire for the Nigerian Air Force to enhance its operations in the state. During a meeting at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan on Monday, the governor assured that his administration would continue to provide essential support to facilitate the swift completion of the Air Force Base in Ajia and collaborate on additional operational areas. Governor Makinde praised the Nigerian Air Force for its significant contributions to state security, noting their continued support to his administration. “The Air Force has been a pillar of support since my tenure began, assisting in keeping Oyo State safe and secure,” he stated. He expressed gratitude to the Air Force personnel for their dedication. In conversation with Air Vice Marshal Kolade Ademuwagun, the Air Officer Commanding of the Logistics Command, Nigerian Air Force, the governor conveyed his appreciation for the Force’s efforts and highlighted their roles in enhancing the state’s security framework. He also acknowledged the Air Force’s involvement in the upgrade of Ibadan Airport to an international status. Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of a functional Air Force Base in Ajia, assuring that the state government had addressed compensation for any individuals displaced by the project. He recognized inflation’s impact on budget considerations and expressed the state’s readiness to increase financial support for the project’s timely completion. Acknowledging the challenges faced by the Air Force amid international standards for aviation, the governor encouraged officers to persevere, stating, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” Air Vice Marshal Ademuwagun reciprocated the governor’s sentiments, commending the strong relationship between the Oyo State Government and the Nigerian Air Force. He highlighted the state’s rich history and praised Makinde’s strategic vision in areas such as economy, education, and agriculture. The meeting was attended by several key officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akinola Ojo, among others. Ademuwagun was accompanied by Air Commodore George Akinyimika, the Air Officer Commanding 671 NAF Detachment in Ibadan, and other senior officials from the Nigerian Air Force.

NBS Ranks Oyo Number One In The South As Makinde Hits 22,000+ Employment In Five Years.

  The Nigeria Bureau of Statistics, NBS, has announced Oyo State as the most employment friendly State in the Southern part of Nigeria. In a statement made by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, NBS, a Federal Government Agency made this declaration in the latest employment statistics published for 2024. The document, according to the Commissioner, reveals a significant decline in Oyo State unemployment rate, recording an impressive 2.0%, thereby announcing Oyo State as leading in employment creation, surpassing 31 other States in the Federation including the FCT which recorded a 14.1% unemployment rate as at September 26, 2024. According to the Commissioner, the NBS figure is not surprising because employment in the State has been consistently high-pitched. Recently, the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, announced the employment of 7,000 new staff. Two weeks ago, the Oyo State Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, also announced the employment of 7,500 teachers and 3,000 non-teaching Staff. This is in addition to the 5,000 Teachers employed to TESCOM by Gov. Makinde in his first term. In the Health Sector, the State government just concluded the employment process of 375 personnel into the State Hospital Management Board, including Medical Doctors, Nurses, Specialist Consultants, Hospital Administrators, Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Medical Laboratory Scientists, Medical Laboratory Technicians, Physiotherapists and other junior cadre officers. And as we speak, the employment of 791 staff into the Oyo State Civil Service Commission is ongoing. In the same vein, the Seyi Makinde administration has effected the pardoning, reinstatement and promotion of 1,800 workers. In a rare approach to governance, Governor Seyi Makinde had ensured that his performances in all sectors, including people’s welfare and employment surpassed his first four years even when the administration is less than two years into the second term.

We Recorded 126 Emergency Incidents In September- LASEMA

  The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, on Sunday, said it responded to 126 emergency incidents across the state in September. State, Alimosho Local Government Area (LGA) ranked highest with 18 out of the 126 incidents recorded in the state during this period. “This was followed by Ikeja LGA which recorded 16 incidents, Kosofe LGA recorded 14 incidents in third place, Eti-Osa LGA recorded 13 incidents in fourth place. “Ojo, Oshodi-Isolo, Mushin, and Shomolu recorded seven incidents each at the fifth place, just as Surulere LGA recorded six incidents in the sixth place. “Lagos Island and Apapa LGAs recorded five incidents each in seventh place, while Lagos Mainland and Ajeromi-Ifelodun LGAs both recorded four incidents each to occupy the eight position,” he said. He added that Ikorodu, Epe and Ibeju-Lekki LGAs recorded three incidents each at the ninth position, with outside Lagos boundary interventions recording two incidents. “Ifako-Ijaiye and Badagry LGAs both recorded one incident each at 10th position, however, Amuwo Odofin and Agege LGAs recorded no incidents during the period under review,” he said. Mr Oke-Osanyintolu said that yearly emergency trends in the last six years of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu led administration showed that LASEMA attended to a total of 7,662 incidents. NAN

Prepare For Possible Separation – Prof. Lugga Tells Northern Region

  Prof. Sani Abubakar Lugga, the 5th Wazirin Katsina, has called on the northern region to unite and prepare for self-determination, much like their southern counterparts. Speaking at a community engagement event organized by the Coalition of Northern Group (CNG) in Katsina, Lugga stressed the need for northerners to brace themselves for the possibility of separation from Nigeria, reflecting on the persistent calls for secession from the South. Lugga lamented the lack of unity among northerners in defending their rights, contrasting it with the determination of groups like the Biafrans. He urged the North to learn from the proactive measures taken by southern states, particularly in addressing security challenges. He noted that while the security situation in the South is less severe, they have formed regional security forces like Amotekun, while the North remains passive. Referencing historical concerns, Lugga highlighted the apprehension of early Nigerian leaders about the amalgamation of the North and South, a union that, he argued, remains fragile. He warned that without preparation, the North could struggle to survive should the South succeed in breaking away. CNG’s National Coordinator, Jamilu Charanchi, also emphasized the urgency of community-led actions to address Nigeria’s socioeconomic and security challenges. He criticized the country’s leadership for prioritizing elections over the nation’s future and urged communities to take charge of their destinies through collective action.

Makinde Inspects Rayfield Gardens City Estate As He Commends Fendini Limited On World-Class Estate

  The Oyo State Governor, Engr Seyi Makinde, on Saturday paid an inspection visit to Rayfield Gardens City Estate, Alao Akala GRA in Wofun-Montana area of Ibadan. Governor Makinde commended the developer, Messrs Fendini Limited, for their hard work, creative approach and expressed satisfaction that the project is moving fine, noting the estate’s potential for families. He highlighted the State’s rapid growth and the need for more comfortable living spaces for residents and visitors, leveraging on Oyo State’s competitive and comparative advantage in its sustainable economic reforms. The estate will provide more than 300 residential units, a supermarket, hospital, schools, and other amenities, creating hundreds of jobs for entrepreneurs and youth. The CEO of Fendini, Prince Laja Adeoye, who received and conducted the Governor, Commissioner for Lands Housing and Urban Development, Mr Akin-Funmilayo Williams, Director of Physical Planning Mr Akinwale and other top government functionaries round the class A Estate, emphasized the estate’s world-class features, including stunning duplexes, maisonette, flats, apartments, well paved road network and drainages, power installations, solar street lights, water supply, effective security system and more. The project, is being developed through a public-private partnership initiative, aims to set the pace for excellence in Oyo State’s real estate development. The developer noted that people are already living in the Estate, using the opportunity to appreciate their residents and subscribers, calling on the public to take advantage of the ongoing ‘Build and Move in immediately’ offer, for more people to be a home owner in the Estate. According to Adelaja, he said his company is committed to setting the pace for excellence in real estate development, and that is the reason his team are working round the clock to develop and deliver to their subscribers, an estate with solid infrastructures that will be a reference point as far as the State is concerned in the next 12 months. The governor posited that the Estate is strategically located, that when the Ibadan-Iwo Road, Kute-Jenriyin Road, and other ongoing road constructions are finished, it will boost trade, commerce and provide multiple access to the Estate.

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

  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

  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

  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

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

  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.