Oyo Archives - Page 3 of 9

BREAKING: Students Protest in Oyo, Rally Support for Dangote Refinery

October 7, 2025 by admin

Some members of the National Association of Oduduwa Students, the Coalition of Yoruba Students, and the Yoruba Movement are currently staging a peaceful protest in solidarity with the Dangote Refinery, amid its ongoing faceoff with oil unions, PENGASSAN, NUPENG, and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria. The protesters, who converged on Tuesday at Iwo Road Roundabout, end of Ibadan/Lagos expressway, Ibadan in Oyo State, were chanting different songs to show their solidarity. They are marching through major routes, waving placards with inscriptions such as, “Don’t Kill Dangote Refinery,” “#StopsabotagingfuelinNigwria“#EndPENGASSAN,” #EndDAPPMAN,” “#DangoteRefineryIsANationalAsset,” “#StopSabotage, among others.” Wearing matching shirts emblazoned with, “Don’t Kill Dangote Refinery,” the students said the protest is aimed at drawing government attention to what they describe as a “coordinated attempt by vested interests” to frustrate the operations of the refinery, Nigeria’s biggest industrial investment and Africa’s largest single-train refinery. The NAOS President, Olalere Adetunji, called on President Bola Tinubu and relevant government agencies to intervene urgently. “We want to use this period to appeal to the Federal Government to protect the refinery and ensure that labour and marketers’ actions do not derail Nigeria’s move toward fuel self-sufficiency.” Security operatives, including the police and Federal Road Safety Corps, are on ground to maintain order as the protest continues.

Governor Makinde Casts Vote As Oyo PDP Commences Congress

September 29, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has commenced its state congress in Ibadan, the Capital city of the state, with Governor Seyi Makinde casting the first vote to kick off the electoral process. Governor Makinde, who serves as the number one delegate from Ibadan North East Local Government Area, was among the early voters in the peaceful and well-organised exercise. Delegates from all 33 local government areas of the state are currently participating in the congress. The congress marks the culmination of the party’s internal electoral process, following successful ward and local government congresses held across the state. The exercise is aimed at electing new state executive officers who will steer the party’s affairs over the next four years. In his address, Governor Makinde urged the newly elected executive members of the party to deliver the party from the presidency to the counsellorship position. He said, “Congratulations to you all, I salute your courage for standing firm in your party, your responsibility is beyond 2027. “Your mandate is very clear: deliver PDP from the Presidency to the counsellorship position in the 2027 general elections. The event attracted several high-profile dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of the State, Barrister Adebayo Lawal a former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido; the PDP Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja; Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; and several federal lawmakers such as Hon. Abass Adigun Agboworin (Ibadan North-East/South-East Federal Constituency), Hon. Stanley Adedeji Olajide (Ibadan North-West/South-West), and Hon. Shina Peller, a former member of the House of Representatives. Also in attendance were all the local government council chairmen across the state, party stakeholders, and supporters who witnessed the congress proceedings. The outcome of the congress is expected to shape the direction of the PDP in Oyo State as it prepares for future electoral contests.

Urgent Need for Oyo State Government to Stop Annual Textbook Changes in Schools

September 26, 2025 by admin

As students resume to schools in all public and private primary and secondary schools in Oyo State on Monday, I am writing to draw attention to a pressing issue affecting parents, students, and the education system in Oyo State: the frequent and unnecessary annual changes to school textbooks, especially by private school owners. While schools may justify this practice as a means to update curricula or align with new standards, it places an undue financial burden on families, undermines sustainability, and does not always translate to improved educational outcomes. Each academic session, parents in Oyo State are compelled to purchase new sets of textbooks for their children, even when the content of these books differs only marginally from previous editions. This practice is particularly challenging for low- and middle-income families who struggle to afford these recurring costs. For example, a single textbook can cost between ₦5,000 and ₦15,000, and with multiple subjects, the expenses quickly become overwhelming. This financial strain often forces parents to prioritize basic needs over education, potentially impacting students’ access to essential learning materials. Moreover, the constant change in textbooks contributes to waste, as older editions are discarded despite being reusable. This practice contradicts efforts to promote sustainability and efficient resource use. It also raises concerns about transparency, as some schools may be influenced by publishers or other stakeholders to adopt new textbooks unnecessarily, potentially prioritizing profit over educational quality. Encouragingly, several other Nigerian states have already taken decisive steps to curb this issue, offering models Oyo State could emulate. For instance, Imo State has prohibited annual replacements, mandating textbooks for a minimum of four years in both public and private schools. Edo State similarly requires reuse for at least four years, while Ogun State enforces a six-year cycle before any changes, with sanctions for non-compliance. Enugu State reviews and approves textbooks for three-year periods, and Benue State has abolished non-transferable customized books to promote handover from seniors to juniors. These policies not only alleviate parental burdens but also foster resource efficiency and consistent learning. While the Oyo State Government has a responsibility to intervene and regulate this practice, I propose the following measures: – Standardize Textbook Usage: The government should establish a policy mandating schools to use approved textbooks for a minimum period (e.g., 3–5 years) unless significant curriculum changes justify updates. – Strengthen Oversight: The Ministry of Education should monitor schools to ensure compliance and investigate cases where textbook changes appear driven by commercial interests. – Promote Reuse and Affordability: This will encourage schools to implement textbook recycling programs and provide subsidies or free textbooks for indigent students. – Engage Stakeholders: Involve parents, teachers, and education experts in reviewing textbook policies to ensure they prioritize student welfare and learning outcomes. By addressing this issue, the Oyo State Government can alleviate the financial burden on families, promote equitable access to education, and foster a more sustainable learning environment—much like its neighboring states. I urge policymakers to act swiftly to regulate textbook changes and prioritize the interests of students and parents. Thank you for providing a platform to highlight this critical issue. I hope this letter sparks meaningful discussion and actions. Alhazan Abiodun Rilwan is the Deputy Director, Information Archives in Oyo State Ministry of Information, Ibadan.

Oyo Information Archives Revival: Garlands For Oyo Assembly – By Alhazan Abiodun Rilwan

September 26, 2025 by admin

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping governance across Nigeria, Oyo State stands out as a beacon of progress with its ambitious revival of information archives. The construction of the Oyo State Archives and Record Management Centre represents a pivotal step in preserving the state’s rich historical records, enhancing administrative efficiency, and ensuring transparent access to public information. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information and Orientation, has not only modernized record-keeping but also earned widespread acclaim for the Oyo State House of Assembly, whose legislative oversight and budgetary support have been instrumental in bringing this vision to life. The Need for Revival: Preserving Oyo’s Legacy Oyo State, with its deep historical roots in the Yoruba kingdom and colonial-era administration, has long grappled with the challenges of managing vast archives of government records, cultural artifacts, and public documents. Traditional paper-based systems were prone to degradation, loss and inefficiency, particularly in a tropical climate where preservation is a constant battle. The revival effort addresses these issues by establishing a dedicated Archives and Record Management Centre, designed to serve as a centralized hub for storing, digitizing, and retrieving information. This project aligns with broader national goals for digital preservation, as seen in similar efforts across Nigeria to safeguard archival records for future generations. The Center’s construction is listed among ongoing projects under the Ministry of Information, highlighting its role in modernizing state operations. Located within the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Ibadan, the facility now houses key offices, including the Ministry of Special Duties on its first floor, indicating that the structure is operational and contributing to daily governance. By integrating physical storage with digital tools, the initiative ensures that records—from land titles to historical documents—are protected against environmental damage while becoming more accessible to researchers, policymakers and the public. A visit to the Ministry of Information Archives will avail the visitor to see iconic still pictures and videos of historic events and individuals that have held important offices, roles and responsibilities for the State, Western Region or Nigeria as a whole. This reminds us of the importance of having official pictures and event pictures of office-holders in the State Information Archives. We have heard of political office-holders that left office and years after, their children could not find any evidence that they ever served the State. The reason is not far-fetched. This set of office-holders come to office with their personal photographers who also record videos of important events for them and after their tenure of office, the personal photographer goes his way and the materials get lost or destroyed. Instances abound about children of former Governors, Deputy Governors, Speakers of the State House of Assembly, Secretaries to the State Government among others whose families visited the Ministry of Information’s Archives to get iconic pictures of their fathers or mothers for memorabilia, but were told that these people did not keep any of the said materials in the custody of the Ministry, because they used personal photographers and video recorders. The Role of the Oyo State House of Assembly Deserving of garlands—symbolic wreaths of praise—is the Oyo State House of Assembly, whose proactive stance has been crucial to this revival. As the legislative arm responsible for approving state budgets and enacting laws that promote good governance, the Assembly has consistently demonstrated commitment to initiatives that enhance transparency and efficiency. For instance, the body’s approval of budgetary allocations for infrastructure projects, including those under the Ministry of Information, has directly funded the archives center’s development. Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin and his colleagues have emphasized laws that improve service delivery, as evidenced by recent statements reaffirming the 10th Assembly’s dedication to impactful legislation. Their oversight extends to related areas, such as digital land title management, where over 17,046 digital documents have been issued since 2019, boosting revenue and reducing bureaucratic hurdles. This holistic approach underscores how the Assembly’s actions have catalyzed a broader revival of information systems, positioning Oyo as a model for other States. Moreover, the Assembly’s history of addressing archival and library concerns—such as motions to equip public libraries to UNESCO standards—shows a pattern of support for knowledge preservation. By backing the archives revival, lawmakers have not only safeguarded Oyo’s informational heritage but also fostered economic growth through improved record management, which aids in decision-making and attracts investment. Impacts and Future Prospects: The revival’s benefits are already tangible. Enhanced records management streamlines government services, reduces corruption risks by improving traceability, and supports research into Oyo’s cultural and political history. For citizens, it means faster access to vital documents, while for the state, it translates to increased revenue from digitized processes, as seen in land allocation and property searches. Looking ahead, the center could expand to include more advanced features like AI-driven search tools or collaborations with national archives. With the Assembly’s continued support, Oyo is poised to lead in archival innovation, ensuring that its information treasures endure for posterity. In conclusion, the Oyo Information Archives Revival is a testament to visionary governance, with the Oyo State House of Assembly earning well-deserved garlands for their pivotal role. This project not only revives the past but also builds a foundation for a more informed and prosperous future. As Oyo continues to blend tradition with modernity, such initiatives remind us of the power of collective effort in preserving our shared heritage. In an era where digital transformation and preservation of historical records are paramount, Oyo State has taken a bold step forward with the revival of its information archives. The construction and operationalization of the Oyo State Archives and Record Management Centre stand as a testament to the state’s commitment to efficient governance, cultural preservation, and administrative efficiency. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Information and Orientation has not only modernized record-keeping but also ensured that vital historical and administrative documents are safeguarded for future generations. Amid this achievement, the Oyo State House of Assembly deserves resounding accolades—garlands, if you will—for their pivotal role in making this vision a reality through … Read more

Oyo College of Nursing Launches 4 New Faculties

September 3, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State College of Nursing Sciences, Eleyele, Ibadan, has inaugurated four new Faculties designed to meet the growing demand for nursing education and actualise the collegiate status of the institution The inauguration held on Tuesday, marked a significant step in nursing education at the institution, elevating former Departments of Nursing, Midwifery and Public Health within the College to standalone faculties of Medical Surgical; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health and Community Care, and Psychiatric and Mental Health. The Provost of the College, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, said this elevation, recognizes the college’s long-standing contributions to nursing education and the growing demand for its programs. She asserted that the new framework in the college marks a significant milestone for the institution and the nursing profession in Nigeria. Dr. Owolabi, therefore, urged the new deans of faculties to work assiduously towards the attainment of world-class products from the college. She appreciated the Heads of Departments, who are now Deans of faculty, for their effectiveness and commitment to the progress of the college. While commending the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration, the Provost said the institution had initiated steps to commence degree programmes in collaboration with the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso She challenged the deans of faculties to foster nursing education, stressing that the different courses offered must be a tool for advancing the healthcare profession. She added, “This development is expected to foster growth and expansion of the nursing program in the College, benefiting both the college and the broader healthcare sector in Nigeria and globally.” The Pro-Chancellor, LAUTECH, Prof. Ayodeji Omole, in his keynote address, described the inauguration as a historic and groundbreaking development. He praised the Oyo State College of Nursing’s bold step to infuse new faculties and departments into its academic system. He explained that the College’s bold restructuring filled a long-standing gap in Nigeria’s nursing education, particularly among Colleges of Nursing in the country. “With this inauguration of new faculties, the College will witness a turning point in nursing education and practice,” he said. Commending the Provost for her doggedness, he said that Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi has redefined resilience as an administrator. He reaffirmed LAUTECH’s commitment to supporting the college’s dream to award degree programmes so as to align with global standards and best professional practices.

Isese Day: Oyo Declares Wednesday Work-free Day

August 18, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – THE Oyo State Government has declared Wednesday, 20 August, 2025, as a work-free day. Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike K. Adeyemo, in a circular letter dated 18th August, 2025, indicated that the governor approved the work-free day to mark the Isese Day Celebration. According to the circular, the governor urged all citizens in the state to use the occasion to pray for the peace, unity and stability of the state in particular and the country in general.

Oyo Govt Debunks Claims On Converting Bola Ige Market Carpark To Shop…says upgrade is transparent, collaborative

July 30, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government has debunked allegations that it has replaced the car park at Bola Ige international business complex, popularly known as Gbagi Market with new shops and extorted money from unsuspecting traders, overnight. This misleading report was published by a certain online blog and subsequently circulated on social media. The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon Adeniyi Adebisi, said the claim is entirely false, mischievous, and an intentional misrepresentation of an ongoing, well-planned redevelopment project. He said the Gbagi market redevelopment effort is being spearheaded in phases by the Oyo State Government, under the supervision of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, in close partnership with the market leadership and representatives of zonal traders’ associations. Mr. Adebisi said the portion of land being referred to was not an official car park but an underutilized area, prone to illegal vending and security risks. The Commissioner said following broad consultation with stakeholders, it was approved for formal stall development to promote orderliness and improve access and safety within the market environment. “Furthermore, No part of the main designated car park has been taken over or eliminated. The new shops are not situated in the core vehicle parking zone, he said. “Allocations were not made secretly or overnight, but through a transparent and documented process, coordinated by the leadership of the traders and relevant government departments. “Standardized shop allocation fees were communicated in advance to interested traders with options to opt in or out—there is no evidence of “coerced” payments as wrongly alleged. He reiterated that no trader will be unjustly displaced, and the project will be executed in line with the master plan agreed upon with all key market stakeholders. Adebisi urged members of the public, particularly media outlets, to verify facts before spreading reports capable of inciting public unrest or misleading residents. He also encouraged Market leaders and traders to channel concerns or inquiries to the Market Support Desk at the Ministry or reach out directly to the designated liaison officers. According to him, “the general public, particularly our esteemed market stakeholders, are urged to disregard this fabrication, which is clearly being sponsored by opposition elements and detractors determined to politicize every laudable initiative of the present administration.” Furthermore, the Chairman of the Zonal caretaker Leaders’ Bola Ige international business complex, Gbagi Ibadan, Alhaji Adetonan Morufu who featured on a radio station programme in Ibadan on Wednesday, firmly debunked the allegations and clarified the facts behind the redevelopment effort.

Oyo Govt Announces Scheduled Movement Of Oloolu Masquerade In Ibadan

July 29, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government has announced the scheduled movement of Ibadan-based popular Oloolu Masquerade across selected areas in Ibadan, from Monday, July 28 to Thursday, July 31, 2025. In a statement issued and made available to the Media by the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, explained that the popular Oloolu, one of the most significant Egungun (Masquerades) in Ibadan, is deeply rooted in the City’s Cultural History. He explained that popular Oloolu is traditionally forbidden to be seen by women, except for women born as triplets,who are believed to receive special blessings from the Masquerade. The Commissioner maintained that unlike other masquerades, Oloolu does not follow a fixed route, as its movement is guided spiritually, adding that some of the notable areas expected to be visited during the procession include Aafin Olubadan, Beere, Oje, Idi Arere, Gate, Agbeni, Orita Merin, Oja-Oba, Ayeye, Oranyan, Oke Aremo, Agugu, and Ore Meji, among others. The Government appealed to residents of Ibadan, especially women, to remain mindful of the cultural significance of this festival and to cooperate with local authorities and community leaders during the movement of the masquerade. He appreciated the continued support and understanding of the general public as we celebrate this important aspect of Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage.

Oyo PDP Guber Aspirant, Aare Olayinka Segelu Hails Gbadamosi, Kangara For Grassroots Service In Birthday Message

July 28, 2025 by admin

Governorship hopeful and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Aare. Olayinka Segelu, has extended heartfelt birthday wishes to two outstanding grassroots leaders in Oyo State, former Lagelu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi, and the current Secretary and Sole Administrator of Akinyele Local Government and Akinyele East LCDA, Hon. Kazeem Hamed Adekunle, popularly known as Kangara. In a goodwill message personally signed and released on Sunday, Aare Segelu described the two celebrants as “pillars of grassroots governance” whose commitment to people-centered leadership and total loyalty to the PDP have continued to inspire confidence and progress across their respective constituencies. “On this special occasion,” the statement reads, “I join the good people of Lagelu and Akinyele to celebrate two men of vision, loyalty, and uncommon dedication, Hon. Kazeem Gbadamosi and Hon. Kazeem Hamed Adekunle (Kangara). Your birthdays offer us all an opportunity to reflect on the impact of your leadership, your consistency in party affairs, and your deep commitment to the development of our dear state.” Germany-based business tycoon also added: “To Hon. Gbadamosi, your years as Chairman of Lagelu Local Government remain a benchmark in grassroots administration. You governed with clarity, inclusiveness, and a deep sense of duty. Your name continues to command respect in Lagelu and beyond.” “To Hon. Kangara, your administrative strength and political dexterity, especially in steering Akinyele Local Government and Akinyele East LCDA at critical times, speak volumes about your competence and grassroots appeal. You have shown true capacity as a party man, a loyal public servant, and a leader of the people.” “As you both celebrate this new chapter, I pray for long life, good health, and continued relevance in the political journey ahead. May you be continually strengthened to serve, to lead, and to make even more meaningful impact in the lives of your people and the PDP family in Oyo State.” “Happy birthday once again to two of our party’s finest. The future remains bright with dedicated leaders like you in the fold.”

Oyo Govt Bans Sunday Trading At Gbagi Market

July 24, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Oyo State Government has announced its readiness to enforce ban of Sunday Trading at the Bola Ige International Business Complex, popularly known as Gbagi Market, Ibadan. The Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi stated this on Thursday, in his Office at Secretariat Ibadan. The Commissioner explained that the ban will curb rising insecurity and restore order at the market, adding that the enforcement will take effect from Sunday, 27th July 2025. He hinted that the enforcement is a culmination of a series of consultations and meetings held with market leaders and stakeholders over time. Hon. Adebisi explained that criminal elements were increasingly exploiting the less crowded Sunday environment to perpetrate unlawful activities, saying this prompted renewed engagements with the market leadership, after the government decided to formalize the ban and put enforcement measures in place. According to him, the ban on Sunday trading was originally instituted by the market leadership themselves, in a bid to maintain order and protect traders. “However, some traders have continued to flout the directive, leading to a rise in insecurity concerns.” “We cannot fold our arms and allow the hard-earned reputation of this great market to be tarnished by the activities of a few criminally-minded individuals. After a careful review and collaboration with the market leaders, we all agreed that strict enforcement of the Sunday trading ban is a necessary step towards restoring sanity and safeguarding the lives and property of our traders and customers,” he said. To ensure compliance, the Commissioner announced that a dedicated task force will be deployed to the market every Sunday to prevent any form of trading or business activity. He stressed that the enforcement is not a new directive but a government-backed measure to support the market’s existing policy and protect law-abiding traders. The Commissioner stressed further that Market leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the government’s support and pledged their continued cooperation. He emphasized that the safety of traders, customers, and their businesses remains paramount to this government. Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade, highlighted the importance of shared responsibility between the government and the trading community. He assured stakeholders of the government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order within the market. “The Bola Ige International Business Complex is one of the largest and busiest textile and general merchandise markets in the Southwest region”, he said. “Traders and members of the public are urged to take note of the government’s enforcement action and ensure full compliance, as violators will be sanctioned in accordance with existing regulations.