Oyo Archives - Page 5 of 9

Oyo Govt. Announces Date For BECE, Entrance Exams

July 5, 2025 by admin

The Oyo State Government has announced scheduled dates for the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) and Common Entrance examination across the state. The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olayiwola Olusegun in a statement on Saturday, informed the general public, especially parents, guardians and students in Junior Secondary Schools throughout the State, that the Ministry will conduct BECE between Monday 7″ July and Wednesday 16″ July, 2025. He added that the examination will commence by 9.30 am daily at the respective schools of the candidates. Meanwhile, the 2025 Screening/Placement Exercise, also known as Common Entrance Examination into Junior Secondary Schools, will come up on Thursday, 17 July 2025. According to him, the exercise will commence by 7.00 am at the designated screening centers for Screening/Placement Exercise. He enjoined students to go to designated examination centres with their writing materials. The Commissioner therefore directed principals to make proper and adequate arrangements for the monitoring of the examination throughout the period. His words: “Ministry officials and members of the Oyo State Examination Ethics committee will be moving round to monitor the exercise and ensure that the integrity of the examination is not compromised.” “The students and pupils are enjoined in their own interest to avoid all forms of examination malpractices and members of the public are strictly warned against loitering at these schools and designated screening centres”. He stressed that the entrance examination is for the eligible candidates only.

Oyo To Build Helipad, 21 Structures In N63.4bn Govt House Overhaul

June 27, 2025 by admin

Oyo State Government, on Friday, justified the proposed spending of N63.4 billion to overhaul the over 70-year-old Government House. This was made known in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan, the state capital. He lamented that the section of the media that touted the impression that the Government House was going to be renovated is either ignorant or mischievous. Oyelade said, “The present administration has over 200 ongoing projects, including the Samuel Ladoke Akintola International Airport, the 110KM Circular Road, LAUTECH, Iseyin campus, Fashola Agro-industrial hub and several other infrastructural development projects across the seven zones of the state and the Government House overhauling and reconstruction is one of them. “The Seyi Makinde administration is the least that can be accused of not getting its priorities right and for six years, the government has nurtured the finance of the state efficiently, such that the Internally Generated Revenue has increased by over 300% within this period from about N1.5 billion to N7.8 billion as at the end of May 2025. “The administration has also vigorously pursued the welfare of its workers such that it would pay over N174 billion annually in salaries and wages at N14.5 billion monthly, to the largest State workforce in Nigeria.” He explained that an administration that has employed over 27,000 workers, spent a record N13 billion on gratuities and pension for the aged, subsidises the transportation fare of over 42,000 commuters every day till date and promoted 45 permanent secretaries in one fell swoop, cannot be accused of profligacy. “The decrepit presidential lodge and the banquet hall, which will be ready for the state’s 50th anniversary celebration next year February, will be totally reconstructed while the Governor and the Deputy Governor’s main residences will be overhauled and structural, architectural, mechanical and electrical works will be comprehensively carried out. “Also affected are several quarters and chalets for visitors, senior and junior staff, whose duties would necessitate dwelling in the Government House. “The mosque, church, external botanical garden, roadworks, landscaping, fencing and furniture are also affected in the reconstruction. “It is instructive that the new building will also accommodate a helipad to allow VIP visitors including the presidency, fellow Governors, important dignitaries and the host Governor himself to commute seamlessly to and from their destinations in helicopters.” “In arriving at this decision, the governor had factored-in, the pride of the state, a befitting official residence for the number one and two citizens of the state and a legacy of a beautiful ambience for a place that once had the likes of Sir. John Rankin, Sir. Adesoji Aderemi and others as tenants.” The commissioner then described as laughable and kindergarten the suggestion by a potential gubernatorial candidate in 2027 that the people of the state would be better served by distributing N3 million of the N63.4 billion to 20,000 citizens.

Mid-term Retreat: Makinde Launches Performance Delivery Compact To Measure Results•••Says Oyo Admitted Into World Union Of Whole Markets (PHOTOS)

June 23, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has announced the launch of what he described as a Legacy Compact, also known as Oyo State’s Performance Delivery Compact, which will help the administration to measure results and successes in the next two years. The governor gave this indication on Monday, at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), venue of the 2025 Mid-Term Leadership Retreat organised by the Oyo State Government. According to the governor, the performance delivery compact will enable each Ministry, Department and Agency to identify three to five legacy deliverables that they can realistically complete before 2027; break the deliverables down into 6-month targets to see what will be delivered by January 2026, and what will be completed by May 2027; and ensure that each target is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. He added that the compact will also enable the MDAs to publish the commitments as their Oyo Legacy Pledge, be prepared to stand before the public and say: “this is what we promised, this is what we delivered” and also collaborate across ministries through Joint Compacts, especially where outcomes overlap — such as infrastructure and commerce, education and youth, tourism and environment. Governor Makinde, who spoke on the theme: “Reflecting on progress, refining priorities and re-firing for maximum impact and legacy,” noted that the performance compacts would guide resourcing, visibility, and decision-making for the remainder of the administration, adding that they would be monitored quarterly and reviewed at the state’s Legacy Retreat in 2026. He added that the administration has made remarkable achievements in the last two years of Omituntun 2.0, with successes in the economic sector where the state has been admitted into the World Union of Wholesale Markets courtesy of its partnership with Semmaris on the Ijaiye Food Wholesale Market, the ongoing upgrade of the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport into an international airport and the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road, which first phase of 32km would be commissioned before the end of 2025. He added that the administration has recorded remarkable successes in the education sector, where it recruited 14,000 teaching and non-teaching staff, upgraded 105 classrooms with another 36 ongoing; in the health sector where 264 Primary Health Centres have been upgraded and in the infrastructure sector, where feeder and rural roads are receiving priority attention. Governor Makinde noted, however, that it was time to step back and evaluate the efforts with a view to energising MDAs to finish strong as the administration moves into its last two years in office. He said: “Let me formally welcome you to this retreat where we will be reflecting on the journey of Omituntun 2.0. We will be x-raying our activities through the lens of our Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023 to 2027. We are now halfway through this mandate and it is a good time to take a step back to ask ourselves: how far have we come, what remains to be done, and what must we do now to finish strong? “We began this journey not merely with promises, but with a vision—to shift from accelerated development to sustainable transformation. A vision that says: we do not only build for applause, we build for impact. Let us begin by acknowledging that there is much to be proud of. “Under the Economic pillar, Oyo State has made history. We became the first sub-national in Africa to gain admission into the World Union of Wholesale Markets. We secured a landmark partnership with Semmaris to establish Nigeria’s first Rungis-style wholesale agri-food market — a direct outcome of our agribusiness-first strategy. I want to again publicly thank Dr Debo Akande for his role in making this possible. “We commissioned the 11MW Independent Power Project, powering the State Secretariat 24/7 for the first time in 49 years. “We started the Circular Road and the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport upgrade, while paying attention to feeder roads starting from the Ibadan Zone and extending to other zones from this year. We have also commenced the rehabilitation of rural roads through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP). “Significantly, we brought water to our people. Let me also thank Elias Adeojo for his role in this. He did the unexpected and is still working. Well done. “Our tourism vision is taking shape. We held the first tourism summit in 2024, which helped us to see what direction we wanted to go with tourism, and we are back this year with the second edition, where we will be making a clear call to investors and showing a shift in how we have been working in that sector. “In Education, we recruited over 14,000 new personnel — teaching and non-teaching — to close the gap in our classrooms. We’ve upgraded 105 schools in underserved areas and commenced work on 36 more. The focus is not just on structures, but also on curriculum reform, digital tools, and inclusion. “In Healthcare, we’ve extended the Omituntun Free Health Mission, reaching over 18,000 people this year alone, equipped 264 Primary Healthcare Centres, and improved health equity. Diseases like Onchocerciasis and Lymphatic Filariasis have been eliminated in several LGAs — a first for our State. I acknowledge the work our Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, and the rest of the team are doing in this sector. God bless you. “In Security, we have grown Amotekun to about 2,500 personnel, equipped our forces, and invested in forest protection, rural security, and community intelligence. Our farmers are returning to their farms. Our people are safer today because we chose to act early. “I thank you all for all the work you have put in to make Omituntun 2.0 Part 1 a success. We are now moving to Part 2. This moment calls for honest reflection. Have we made progress? Yes. Are we where we need to be? Not yet. “Across our Roadmap, there remain gaps — not of vision, but of delivery. Projects that began with promise now need a final push; several critical road … Read more

International Widows’ Day: Oyo First Lady Salutes Widows’ Courage, Distributes Cash, Food Items (PHOTOS)

June 23, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Wife of the Oyo State Governor, Engr. (Mrs.) Tamunominini Makinde, has said that the International Widows’ Day is not just a day to celebrate widows but a day to celebrate their courage. Mrs. Makinde disclosed this on Monday while hosting widows across the 33 local government areas of the state in her office, Agodi, Ibadan. The program was held to commemorate the 2025 International Widows’ Day. The event, which featured the distribution of food items, cash relief to thousands of widows as a gesture of love, compassion, and empowerment, had in attendance dignitaries from all works of life including wives of the Chairmen of the local governments, artisans, leaders of the market women, among others. At the event, Mrs. Makinde, who was represented by Hon. (Mrs) Bisi Oluranti Michael, member of the Oyo State House of Assembly representing Ogbomoso North Constituency, appreciated the wife of the governor, emphasized the need to appreciate the strength of widows and to reaffirm government’s commitment to supporting them. “Today is not just a remembrance of loss,” she said, “but a celebration of courage. “Widows face not only the pain of losing their partners but also the risk of losing their dignity and social standing. As mothers, caretakers, and pillars of their homes, your courage is inspiring, and your pain is acknowledged. This day belongs to you.” Diya Ogunjimi, who represented the Oyo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. (Mrs.) Toyin Balogun, urged the women to remain strong in the face of adversity. “We honour the memory of your loved ones and acknowledge your resilience. You are not alone, and we hope today brings renewed strength and encouragement,” she said. Also speaking, Mrs. Abiola Sanda, wife of the ALGON (Association of Local Governments of Nigeria) Chairman in Oyo State, who called on society to end all forms of stigmatization against widows. “If you cannot help a widow, at least do not stigmatize her,” she said. “Widows deserve dignity, not pity or suspicion.” Emotional testimonies were shared by beneficiaries like Mrs Tawakalitu Adam, who stated: “It is not easy to raise children and carry the cross alone, but gestures like this give us strength to carry on, we appreciate the wife of the giv for remembering us with material support” Also Mrs Motunrayo Salam, who encouraged fellow widows to stay hopeful: “It’s very painful to be a widow but with the help of God, we can carry on. So we appreciate our mother for gifting us on a day like this and also encouraging us with food items and cash support.” Dignitaries present at the event included several wives of local government chairmen from across the state, such as Mrs. Khadijah Salam (Oyo West), Mrs. Aisha Adeleke (Atiba), Mrs. Victoria Adegbite (Surulere), and Mrs. Olusola Adebimpe (Ibarapa East), among others. International Widows’ Day, marked annually on June 23, is observed to raise awareness about the struggles faced by widows globally and to advocate for their rights, protection, and inclusion.

(PHOTOS): Oyo Govt’ll End Illegal Mining, Activities Degrading Environment – OSMDA DG•••Calms Igbeti Resident On Rock Weathering Incident

June 13, 2025 by admin

IBADAN – Director-General of the Oyo State Solid Mineral Development Agency, Mr Abiodun Oni, has warned that the state government will continue to be stern against illegal miners and individuals putting the lives of residents at risk through different activities that can degrade the environment. Oni stated this recently when the agency inspected the Ibadan Circular Road, where illegal excavation has led to the degradation of the area spanning Egbeda and Lagelu Local Government Areas. He maintained that the inspection followed an earlier visit by the governor, during which he gave an instruction that such activities should be halted in the area, noting that though the warning had been heeded, the state would not relent in ensuring that the environment is protected. He lamented that the state government would have to spend huge resources, which could be channeled to the development of the state, on fixing the environmental damage caused by the unguided excavation activities. According to Oni, the Executive Order on the Security and Protection of Mining Communities is in force in the state and the state government would leave no stone unturned towards ensuring its enforcement despite mining falling under the exclusive legislative list. He said: “About a few weeks ago, the governor had an inspection around here and discovered the kind of illegal mining activities going on here. “We found out the kind of environmental degradation happening here. So, we have come today as a follow-up to the inspection he did. We also had a team from the Ministry and Agency that came here a few days ago as well, which met with the people causing the havoc here. “The team warned those people. So, this is just a follow-up to that visitation. So far, so good, the engagement here is yielding some results, because we have travelled about 8.5 km and we have not seen anybody excavating here. “I think they are yielding to the warning but this is going to be a continuous exercise, because illegal miners don’t give up. We will continue to make sure we come around here, because we want to put a stop to the illegal activity. “If they continue to do this, we have to take action. Though the law of the land as regards mining rests with the Federal Government, we have our own laws that give us the room to act one way or the other. The Executive Order that the governor signed in 2023 takes care of some of those consequential responses and we will put them into action. We have to get hold of these guys and enforce the law. “Though they have done what they have done, they are not going to continue doing it. We will make sure that they don’t continue to do this excavation. Just look at the land. It is going to cost a lot more to be able to reclaim it. “So, we are going to keep spending time to let people inspect this place and make sure this act stops.” In another development, the OSMDA DG and his team equally visited Igbeti in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of the state, where they inspected the site of the recent rock weathering, which initially caused a stir before the government explained the cause of the incident. Speaking in Igbeti, Oni reiterated the state government’s position that there is no cause for alarm, noting, however, that residents should not carry out activities near the rock until they are informed it is safe to do so. He added that the state government has been on top of the situation, as it has been coordinating the local authorities including the local government and the traditional institution on necessary actions. Oni said: “From what we have seen, the rock was subjected to extreme heat and made a weak part of the rock come down. “To the glory of God, we don’t have any casualty and this is one of the reasons why the governor sent us here to calm nerves down. “We have reassured the people of the community that there is no danger but they should steer clear of the rock. This is because there may be a recurrence. “This thing is better attended to by the local authorities that we have advised from the state. I have been in touch with the elected council chairman and the king of the town. We have also advised the people to stay away as much as they can. “As I said, it is still more like an active system and we don’t want anybody to get hurt. So, I want to implore the people of the community and the farmers farming close to the rock to stay away for now.” Also speaking, the vice chairman, Olorunsogo Local Government, who spoke on behalf of the chairman, Hon. Kazeem Olayanju, said the council had taken several actions, including working with the traditional institution to disseminate information to residents on the incident and why they should stay away from the rock. He added that the government is also working on erecting a barricade to prevent people from the axis. Similarly, the Onigbeti of Igbetiland, Oba (Engr) Bashir Abioye, lauded the Oyo State Government for taking necessary steps to prevent the loss of lives, adding that he had also tasked a team of experts to evaluate the situation. He said: “This incident also occurred last year and the one that just happened was the continuation of what happened last year. The government of Oyo State has taken the necessary steps to make sure that no life is lost. “We have also asked the hunters and farmers that do use the rock to stop going there temporarily. The government has asked a team of experts to come and evaluate the rock and I believe that, with the capacity of the state government, the needful would be done, because we know that the lives of our people are important to them.”

2027: Oyo Broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat’s Posters Flood Ibadan

June 11, 2025 by admin

The posters of popular Ibadan-based broadcaster, Hamzat Oriyomi, have flooded the streets of Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State in the build-up to the forthcoming 2027 general election. The posters with the tag, “2027 Oyo n pe o”, had a portrait of the veteran Yoruba broadcaster in black colour, raising awareness for his preparation in the anticipated election without an indication of the office he is contesting for. In a video posted by a support group of the broadcaster cited by our correspondent on Wednesday, the founder of Agidigbo FM was seen jeering to the cheers of the masses at the event he attended, where he was constantly being told that the people of the state are calling him and that he has to answer the call. “Okiki (Hamzat), Oyo is calling you. answer their call.” Also, a statement on the official page of the ‘Oyo n pe o’ social media pages addressed criticisms directed at the broadcaster’s transition from media to politics. It read in parts, “The claim that ‘governance is more than speaking into a microphone’ reflects a misunderstanding of leadership. Broadcasting is rooted in communication, empathy, and connection—traits that are fundamental to good governance.” “Those who reduce Oriyomi Hamzat’s potential to his profession are either misinformed or biased. Leadership is not defined by profession but by vision, courage, and commitment to service. “We call on Dr. Oriyomi Hamzat to respond to this clarion call to serve.” https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMSUAUUKa/ In another trending video, a popular Ibadan-based influencer, Funny Thinker, was seen telling Hamzat that the people of Oyo are calling him to answer their call in 2027. “He said he won’t rest if we don’t, Okiki, the son of Hamzat, we are calling you, please answer us in 2027,” Funny Thinker said. https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMSUA9Vk6/ The veteran broadcaster responded, “You will all be alright.” While Hamzat is yet to speak on whether he wants to contest in the much-anticipated election, he has also not debunked the popular mantra pushed for him in preparation for the 2027 poll. However, efforts by our correspondent to speak with him on the posters making rounds proved abortive as he was not reachable for a comment as of the time of filing this report. Punch

Oyo Postpones Adire Carnival, Exhibition

June 11, 2025 by admin

Oyo State Government has announced the postponement of Adire Carnival and Exhibition in the state. The state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, announced this in a statement released by his counterpart from the Ministry of Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, in Ibadan, the state capital, on Wednesday. It will be recalled that the event was originally scheduled for Friday, June 20, 2025. Olatunbosun said the decision was made to ensure that the carnival and exhibition meet global best practices, run seamlessly, and deliver the rich, immersive experience that the people of the state and the esteemed guests expect. He hinted that a new date would be announced in due course, and all stakeholders and members of the public will be duly informed. The commissioner explained that the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration remains steadfast in its commitment to promote, preserve and develop Culture and Tourism across the state. He said, “As outlined in the Omituntun 2.0 Roadmap for Sustainable Development, the State Government recognises tourism as a vital driver of economic growth, job creation, and internally generated revenue. “The state has successfully hosted a variety of vibrant cultural and tourism-based events, including the World Twins Festival, World Egungun Festival, World Tourism Day, Iyake International Festival, Oyo State International Tourism Summit, and the Aso-Ofi Festival.” Olatubosun added that these initiatives have boosted the local economy, empowered residents, and attracted both national and international attention to the State. “The Aso-Ofi Festival, in particular, has achieved remarkable success, prompting a government-backed policy encouraging civil and public servants to incorporate Aso-Ofi into their dress code. This policy has revitalised indigenous textile production and further cemented the state’s reputation as the Manchester of Indigenous Textile Production. “In continuation of these efforts, the State Government, through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in partnership with BIZRAIT and Adire Odua, planned the Adire Carnival and Exhibition to showcase and celebrate indigenous textile craftsmanship. “However, in our collective quest to deliver an event of the highest standard—reflective of the state’s esteemed cultural status—it has become necessary to postpone the event, originally scheduled for Friday, 20th June 2025.” He appreciated the immense support and understanding of all partners, participants, and the general public as the team works toward hosting an even more impactful event.

Oyo Guber Aspirant Mourns Loss Of Hon. Olatunji Suleiman Akande

June 8, 2025 by admin

Chief Olayinka Segelu Oladimeji, a gubernatorial aspirant under the umbrella of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of Hon. Olatunji Suleiman Akande, known as Lexyman Smally, as well as to the Oluyole Local Government and the Oyo State PDP. Segelu, Germany-based entrepreneur and ICT pundit, in a statement, expressed sorrow over the passing of Hon. Akande, highlighting his contributions as a strong voice in the Oluyole Local Government. According to him, the sad news came after a conversation he had with Asiwaju Oluyole, Hon. Akeem Olatunji last night, who was in Saudi Arabia at the time, grieving the loss of his dear aide. “Unbeknown to me, he was mourning, and it was a shocking revelation,” Segelu added. Asiwaju Segelu shared in the collective sorrow of the community as they mourn the sudden passing of Lexyman Smally. He called for prayers for the deceased, stating, “May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus.” The community will continually remember Hon. Akande for his dedication and service to humanity, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire many within the Oluyole Local Government and beyond.

Eid-el-Kabir: Aare Segelu Preaches Unity, Pledges Inclusive Leadership For Oyo

June 8, 2025 by admin

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 general election in Oyo State, Aare Olayinka Segelu, has extended warm Eid-el-Kabir greetings to the Muslim faithful and the entire people of the state, urging them to embrace the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and selfless service. In a goodwill message released on Saturday, June 7, 2025, Aare Segelu described Eid-el-Kabir as a significant celebration that underscores the values of obedience to God, resilience, and compassion towards one another. According to him, “Eid-el-Kabir reminds us of the ultimate lesson of faith, sacrifice, and submission to the will of the Almighty. It is a time to reflect on the values that bind us together as a people, love, tolerance, and the pursuit of a greater good.” The German- based Ibadan-born politician, noted that the celebration presents an opportunity for residents of Oyo State to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence and collective development. He said, “As we celebrate this sacred festival, I call on all sons and daughters of Oyo State to uphold peace and show love to one another, regardless of political, religious, or ethnic differences. It is only through unity and mutual respect that we can build a better and more prosperous Oyo State.” He assured the people of his commitment to providing purposeful, people-centered leadership if given the mandate in 2027, saying, “Our vision for Oyo State is one rooted in equity, innovation, and inclusive growth. As we share in the blessings of this season, let us also stay hopeful for a brighter future together.” The PDP chieftain concluded by wishing Muslim families a joyous and safe celebration. “May this Eid bring peace to our land, strength to our families, and blessings to every home in Oyo State. Barka da Sallah!” he said.

Man Falls From 26-Storey Cocoa House In Oyo

June 3, 2025 by admin

A yet-to-be-identified man has reportedly fallen from one of the top floors of the 26-storey Cocoa House building in Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident, which threw the entire business community into panic, occurred in the early hours of Monday. One of the eyewitnesses said, “When the incident happened, I initially thought it was a large bird falling from the sky. “It was only when the person landed that I realised it was a human being. “I had my phone with me but I couldn’t even record anything because I was completely shocked.” Another eyewitness said, “The victim first hit a roof beside the security post of the building before landing on the ground. It was a terrifying sight.” As of press time, the circumstances behind the unfortunate incident were still sketchy as the investigation continues. Meanwhile, a statement released by Odu’a Investment Company Limited, the firm managing Cocoa House, on Tuesday, in Ibadan, the state capital, confirmed the incident. The Head of Branding and Communication of the company, Victor Ayetoro, who authorised the statement, said, “The individual involved was swiftly attended to by the emergency response team and taken to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for urgent medical attention. “The company expressed deep concerns over the development and assured the public of its full cooperation with authorities investigating the cause of the fall,” he added.