₦airaland Forum

AMUDIPE OPEYEMI MARCUS
TCCNEWS

Waste management is the most pressing environmental challenge faced by urban and rural areas in Nigeria. with a population of 178.5 million, is one of the largest producers of solid waste in Africa. Despite a host of policies and regulations, waste management in the country is alarming with each passing day.


Changing the narrative when it comes to an effective waste management system in Nigeria, the Ondo state government in the bid to ensure a clean environment has ensured that issues relating to the wellness of the good people of Ondo state are treated with great importance. By introducing ZL Global tagged OPERATION FLUSH to carry out waste management operations in the state. Also it has put in place tasks and responsibilities to effectively focus on all relevant clients, and employees on appropriate handling, evacuation, collection, transportation, recovery, disposal, monitoring and reporting of waste in Ondo state.


The OPERATION FLUSH program is an intensive operation to evacuate all illegal dumps from communities, water channels, canals, drainages and river tributaries.
The execution of the Operation Flush intervention program cuts across different categories of waste management mentioned below;
Vegetation Control
Vector Control
Desilting of drainages, canals and river tributaries
Evacuation of solid waste from communal/ancient dump sites

This initiative caters for waste containerization, general sanitation and hygiene within the operational environment to curb various disease outbreak in this post-Ebola era. It would be recalled that the Ondo state government had flagged off the OPERATION FLUSH in the ancient town of Owo on the 3rd of February 2019 which is done to put an end to the worrisome menace of Lassa fever.

At the end of the operation, lands were identified as dump site for Owo and Ose local government respectively. the Ondo state government on the 9th of July 2019 acquired a brand-new Amphibious Excavator to help tackle flooding in the state.


the acquired Amphibious Excavator (Swamp buggy) would be used to combat flooding problems ravaging various parts of the state.

However, to support the efforts of the Ondo state government in keeping the state clean and the populace healthy, the management of Sterling Bank on the 27th of August 2019 donated 600 customized reflective uniforms to the Ondo State Waste Management Authority (OSWMA) for highway sweepers and workers working with the agency. In addition, the bank also donated kits, brooms, spades, boots and rakes to the authority in fulfilment of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)


Moreover, a bad environmental outlook will eventually scare away potential investors from the state, which will in the long run have a huge toil on the economic development and growth of the state.
Amudipe Opeyemi Marcus
TCC NEWS
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu-creating-healthy-atmosphere-for-development-through-effective-waste-management-System-in-Ondo-State

Technological utilisation has been described as a veritable development that is reshaping the lives of the modern man for entrepreneurship and creative innovations.

Speaking at the FUTUREHACK Southwest programme at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN said effective solutions, ideas and innovations are inherent in technology, for the purpose of addressing challenges of poverty, job creation and sustainable development.

The programme organized by the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA and facilitated by the Office of ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship, OIIE, centered on education challenges; e-education innovations, was the fourth edition of FUTUREHACK.

The governor represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale, said in view of the fact his administration has since inception placed high premium on values of technology, the state owned schools at all levels from primary, secondary to tertiary institutions have integrated technology education into their curricula.

While commending the choice of FUTA for the event in Southwest Nigeria, Governor Akeredolu believed the platform would help energise the creativity of students at developing unique solutions for education sector reforms.

Arakunrin Akeredolu implored student designers, developers and young innovators to leverage on the knowledge acquired through FUTUREHACK to move to greater heights.

In her welcome address, the National Coordinator, Office for ICT Innovation and Entrepreneurship, OIIE, Dr Amina Sambo-Magaji said through technology innovations students in universities across the country are becoming ICT entrepreneurs and innovators.

She commended the tripartite arrangement between the Ondo State Government, Federal University of Technology, Akure and the Private Sector on the development of Akure TECH HUB which she said was worthy of emulation by states of the federation.

Also the Director General National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Mr Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi said students and the unemployed young people should leverage on technological utilisations mainstreamed into FUTUREHACK .

The DG who was represented by a Director in NITDA, Mr Olayinka Adejube lauded the Ondo State Government for its commitments to technological education and more importantly for the initiative of the state on Akure TECH-HUB which according to him was facilitating human capital development.

Earlier, in his Goodwill Message the Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Innovation and Partnership, Mr Joel Ogunsola appreciated the choice of Ondo State for the Fourth edition of FUTUREHACK.

He used the occasion to showcase the credible outcomes from the State Government's investment on Akure TECH HUB which according him has made its Startups worthy entrepreneurs.
Source http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/NITDA--OIIE-commend-Governor-Akeredolu-on-Akure-TECH-HUB

VICE-President Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday said the Federal Government will expand its MarketMoni and TraderMoni interest-free loan scheme to cover more rural dwellers.

The Vice-President spoke at the Keffi old market in Keffi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.
It was during the assessment visit of the loan facility in Keffi, the state capital.

Osinbajo said President Muhammadu Buhari had given the directive that the MarketMoni/TraderMoni loan programme would be extended to all the states of the federation.

The Vice-President said the extension of the Federal Government-backed loans scheme is to ensure that it achieves the intended objective.

He advised the beneficiaries of the loan to pay back to enable other intending beneficiaries to benefit from the programme.

“We want to assure you that we are going to do more as President Muhammadu Buhari has directed us to expand the scheme so that those who have not benefited from the TraderMoni and MarketMoni will also benefit.”



“It is very important to pay back the money so that the scheme will work effectively,” Osinbajo said.

Governor Abdullahi Sule hailed the Federal Government for taking the loan scheme to the state.

He said it would contribute to the economic prosperity of the state.

The Executive Director, Micro Enterprise, at the Bank of Industry (BoI), Toyin Adeniji, said 3,000 beneficiaries enrolled for the scheme in three days.

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The Ondo State government has promised to prioritise the training and re-training of its health workers to ensure effective healthcare delivery.

Commissioner for Health Dr. Wahab Adegbenro spoke when he opened three-day training on Essential Drug Management for Pharmacists in the Ministry of Health, Hospitals Management Board and the State Primary Health Care Development Agency.

Dr. Adegbenro, who explained that effective drug management system is key to achieving qualitative healthcare, hoped that the training would help to ensure uniformity of procedure in drug management in health facilities.

The commissioner promised that the government would not relent in fighting fake and counterfeit drugs, saying measures have been put in place to ensure that lives are protected at all times.

He urged participants to take advantage of the training, saying it would help them to perform better in their places at work.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Health Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye said the state would continue to do the needful in ensuring that quality drugs are available in all the health facilities across the state.

Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Development Agency Dr. Francis Akanbiemu described the training as training the trainers, saying participants would in turn cascade the knowledge gained to over 600 public, private and secondary healthcare facilities in the state.

The chief trainer, Folukemi Aladenola, explained that the training is to ensure that drugs are safe, available and affordable at all times. She praised the government for procuring a Tru-Scan machine which she said has helped to detect fake and counterfeit drugs.
Source http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ondo-State-Govt-to-prioritize-healthcare-delivery

The Majority Leader, Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Jamiu Sulaiman Maito, has promised the support of the lawmakers to a move by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to set up a Security Trust Fund.

This is just as Hon Maito rolled out the drums to appreciate the special grace and favour of the Almighty Allah, especially over his re-election in the last March 11, 2019 State House of Assembly election.

The Majority Leader, Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Jamiu Sulaiman Maito, on Friday rolled out drums amidst pump and pageantry to give thanks to God.

The special Thanksgiving Service held at the Agbaluku Central Mosque, Arigidi Akoko, had in attendance, other lawmakers of the Assembly including the wife of the Speaker of the House, Prophetess Olufunke Oleyelogun, APC leaders and members as well as friends and well-wishers.

Maito, a lawmaker representing Akoko North-West Constituency 1 in the Assembly explained that the thanksgiving was to appreciate God for how far he has taken him, especially for giving him another victory in the last House of Assembly election in the state, and as well made him Majority Leader of the hallowed chamber.

He equally appreciated all APC leaders in his local government and the state as well as other members of the party for their continued support with a promise to continue to do his best to improve the lives of his constituents.

“We must learn to appreciate God in everything because He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. For how far he has taken us we must thank Him. If we can look back and see what God has done in our lives we will realise that it is important to give thanks to Him for His grace.

“So, when I look at the beginning and the end of the election which gave me victory, I have nothing to say other than to give thanks to the Almighty Allah who made me to participate in the election process, stand the election and win the election. Also, on getting to the Assembly I was made the Majority Leader, that is why I have to come back home and give special thanks to God,” he added.

He also used the occasion to assure the people of his constituency of adequate and proper representation, saying his new position would spur him to improve on the gains of the past and do more to improve on the lives of the people of his constituency.

Maito added that the Assembly would continue to work harmoniously with the executive arm to ensure the people of the state enjoy real dividends of good governance.

The Majority Leader particularly said the Assembly would give the state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, necessary support to establish Security Trust Fund to provide adequate security for lives and property of the citizenry, amidst banditry and kidnapping in and around the state.

The journey of a thousand miles they say begins with a step. It is the desire of every civil servant to serve and ends his service alive.


The glorious retirement from civil service of the olowo- elect, is a thing of joy as he is not retiring like everyother civil servant.


The great man known as Ajibade Gbadegesin will henceforth assume a prominent position as the new Olowo of Owo to extend his service to his people as a traditional ruler of Owo Kingdom.


The Ondo State civil service commission, performed a mandatory retirement ceremony for the new Olowo of Owo elect on the 22nd of August 2019 at Akure the ondo state capital.


The Head of service in Ondo State, Mr Dare Aragbaiye who was present to perform the ceremony, said it is the first of its kind for a serving permanent secretary to emerge as the Olowo of Owo in Ondo state.


Mr Aragbaiye, recounted that the Olowo elect who joined civil service in 2001, has served in different parastals and gave his quota to the growth and development of ondo state.


Prior to his retirement, he was a director of finance government House and Protocol before assuming the position as a permernent secretary where he has fully rendered his invaluable services.


Dignitries present at the event recognized the Olowo-elect as a man with a clean pin, who is well cultured and dedicated to service. They also expressed that the commission would miss him in a positive grief.


Olowo -Elect, Ajibade Gbadegesin admitted that the civil serivce has trained and schooled him in service to humanity. He said the civil service is a unique organization for anyone who want to serve the people.


He expressed gratitude to the Ondo state Governor who deemed it right for him to reach the level of permernent secretary. He advices that everyone should be contended with what they have as he promises to be a good representative of Ondo State and would use his position to effect positive changes in Ondo State.


The Chief of staff who spoke during the ceremony, said the people of Owo has made the right choice by choosing someone as Gbadegesin who has the capacity to lead his people. He appreciated the Omolowo for the peaceful selection.
Alozie Genevieve
TCC News

The Ondo State Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye has assured all workers in the state that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu would continue to interact with the leadership of labour unions in order to sustain the cordial relationship between them.

Mr Aragbaiye, who gave the assurance at the 2nd quarterly Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) Management meeting held in Akure, noted that the Governor, had at different fora acknowledged the contributions and support of workers to the numerous achievements of his administration in the last two years.

He commended Governor Akeredolu for prioritizing the welfare of workers within the available scare resources, adding that government would not deny them any of their entitlements.

He described workers as the engine of government with which it can actualise its policies and programmes, saying that government would sustain the quarterly meeting so as to continue to enjoy the support of workers to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Department of Establishment and Training, Mr Victor Olajorin appreciated the HOS for facilitating and personally attended the meeting which he said is a right step towards achieving harmonious government – labour relationship in the state.

While welcoming the leadership of the unions to the meeting, the Chairman Joint Negotiating Councils, Comrade Opeyemi Oloniyo congratulated Mr Aragbaiye on his new appointment and also commended him for being the only HOS that attended the meeting in the last six years.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr Gbenga Adelae and his counterpart in the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs Funmilayo Ajayi were also at the meeting to attend to issues bothering on labour matters.

Representatives of the various labour unions in the state public service attended the meeting where issues bothering on the on-going verification exercise at the local government councils, conversion of workers from one cadre to another, training of workers and other matters relating to public service were discussed.
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ondo-Head-of-Service-lauds-Governor-Akeredolu-over-workers-welfare

The Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, is astonished that an opposing political party in the State, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, could churn out porous and imaginary allegations to distract the APC-led government.

In a statement signed by the state publicity Secretary Mr Alex Kalejaye said the PDP, in a desperate attempt to smear the soaring image of the ruling party recently accused the APC-led government of defrauding the state, impoverished traditional institutions, destroying the health sector, among others.

It further stated that APC is deeply astounded that a party that carried out a crude castration and strangulation of the State finances could issue such a statement in less than 30 months of its exit.

The APC wishes to declare with all sense of modesty that the current administration has proved that it has come to serve the people; develop the land, and not to plunder the treasury.

The above assertion explains why the government never struggled to pay salaries as at when due. Pensions, that the previous administration considered an aberration, are also being paid.

It is incongruous to listen to a government that couldn’t pay salaries for several months, and left behind hundreds of billions of debts, accuse the APC government of defrauding the state, with all the celebrated infrastructures that are visible, to even the blind.

In the health sector, the APC government has so far employed about half a million health workers to ensure a healthier state.

The dearth of medical equipment and consumables that created hedge on the path of efficiency in service delivery is now history. The APC government has expended billions of Naira on such equipment; 22 containers of 40 feet each.

Besides, the government has upgraded and expanded additional five General Hospitals to be Mother and Child friendly, and complement the two facilities inherited.

The ruling party also finds it disgusting that a well-cultured African would hide under politics to desecrate the traditional institutions by painting them in negative lights.

The revered traditional rulers do not depend on handouts from government, therefore, no party or government could confer poverty on them. They deserve respect from all of us; there must not be mudslinging to the royal institution.

As a responsible party, we are reluctant to remind the PDP of the on-going trial of some of its principal officers, including its State Chairman, in connection with financial crimes.

The financial recklessness that rocked the State Assembly under PDP, paved the way for destructive crisis, when a director was caught with huge sums of cash on the instruction of the then speaker.

The attempt by the then outgoing administration, to withdraw huge sums of money led to the flight of an honest State Accountant-General.

As a quick reminder, hundreds of millions of naira were siphoned and under the guise of “outsourcing legal matters”. One of the PDP leading governorship aspirants can testify to this.

The APC advises opposition parties to display higher level of maturity in their so call “attacks”, and come up with constructive criticisms.”
Source
http://osrc.ng/headlines/your-allegations-are-imaginary-ondo-apc-tells-pdp/

TEACHERS, PENSIONERS, UNDERGO VERIFICATION

The much awaited verification of local government workers, primary school teachers and their pensioners have commenced on Tuesday across the 18 Council areas of Ondo state.

It was gathered that the exercise was aimed at fishing out ghost workers, teachers and pensioners in the state.

It was further learnt that despite massive retirement of primary school teachers and LG workers their monthly wage bills were yet to reduced significantly.

Meanwhile, the state government said the on-going verification exercise of workers at the local government councils in the state is to ascertain the number of workers that are genuinely working in the councils.

The state Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye who made this known on Tuesday while monitoring the exercise in Akure South Local Government Councils Secretariat in Akure, said the exercise is in the best interest of both the workers and the government.

While addressing the workers at the commencement of the exercise, Aragbaiye said the verification is to identify the actual number of workers that should be on government pay roll, saying that it is also meant to eradicate the instances where government would be paying ten people when only two people are actually doing their jobs.

Williams Oni, Media Manager in the Office of HOS, quotes Aragbaye to have therefore enjoined the workers to cooperate with the state government for their mutual benefit, saying that the exercise was not to put unnecessary suffering on them.

Responding to reporter’s interview, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Segun Odusanya said the exercise only concerned local government staffs, primary school teachers and pensioners at the local government councils.

He said those concerned are to come to the verification centres with their letters of first appointment, last promotion letters and must be identified by their Heads of Department.

The exercise is expected to last for two days.
Source
Ondo HoS calls for cooperation as LG workers, teachers, pensioners, undergo verification
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ondo-HoS-calls-for-cooperation-as-LG-workers--teachers--pensioners--undergo-verification-

Ondo State government yesterday sealed off 10 event centres in Akure, Ondo State capital for evading tax.

The director in charge of hotel registration and classifications in the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr Kehinde Olasoji who led the team of enforcement exercise emphasised that tax evasion is a criminal offence.

Areas visited by the team are Ijapo Estate and Oke Aro in Akure where ten centres were eventually sealed off.

The director said the state would not tolerate tax evasion, stressing that the numerous projects being carried out by the government could only be sustained and improved upon if taxes are paid as and when due.

Olasoji vowed that it would be a continuous exercise
Source
ODSG seals 10 event centres over tax evasion
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/ODSG-seals-10-event-centres-over-tax-evasion

The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) has assured the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (OCHC) of adequate data needed for the smooth take-off of the contributory health insurance scheme in the state.

Senior Special Assistant to the governor on ICT, Mr. Olumbe Akinkugbe while receiving the management team of the commission in his office said, SITA has the required digital capacity and adequate manpower needed for the commission to deliver quality healthcare to the door steps of the residents of the state regardless of where they live, work or play.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Agency Mrs. Bunmi Omotola, the SSA, who doubles as Chairman of the Agency, explained that the present administration under the able leadership of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has done a lot to scale up the operations of SITA to an enviable heights so as to serve as infrastructural and digital backbone for all MDAs.

According to Akinkugbe, lack of internet facilities in the Agency will soon be a thing of the past, as government has graciously approved broadband internet services for the use of MDAs to enhance productivity.

Earlier, the General Manager of the Commission, Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, had solicited the cooperation of SITA in the area of accurate data and software development that will enable the Commission meet the health needs of the greater number of Ondo State residents, especially the rural dwellers

Dr. Oyeneyin, who emphasized that it is the right of Nigerians to have unhindered access to quality and affordable healthcare added that the target of the Commission is to work with adequate and verifiable data of the vulnerable, public/civil servants, the organized and informal sectors at the unit and ward levels of the state which could only be provided by SITA.

The two bodies later agreed to set up a technical team to smooth all the rough edges for the quick and effective take-off of the scheme.
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/SITA-partners-OCHC-on-Health-Insurance-Scheme

IC STUDENTS
Amudipe Opeyemi Marcus
TCC NEWS
In what has been described as a proof to the Akeredolu led administration to listen and heed to the voice of the good people of Ondo state, and protecting the interest of students in the state,the management of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic Owo,Ondo State has announced a new approved tuition fee for the 2019/2020 academic session. The newly approved tuition fee sees a 30% reduction compared to the previous years.
The 30% reduction of the tuition fee is coming as a result of the intervention of the state government in ensuring that qualitative education is made available and accessible to the good people of Ondo state.
The institution established in the year 1979 has been thrown into public discourse in the past few months due to the state of the previous tuition fee structure, which was described "overtly too high and backbreaking" considering the present state of the nation's economic realities.
The students, parents and other stakeholders had pleaded to the Akeredolu led administration to help in the reduction of the tuition fee, in response to this pleads Governor Akeredolu had stated that the state Government cannot alone continue to bear the burden of running tertiary institutions in the state, nevertheless promised to look into the review of the tuition fee.
The Akeredolu led administration must be commended for its readiness and willingness to put first the interest of the Nigerian students and that of the state in general.
Parents,Guardians and students of the institution can now look forward to a new academic session with utmost sense of relief and joy.
The newly approved tuition fee structure will see the ND 1 and 2, Science amd Non Science based pay a paltry sum of 70,600.00 and 67,000,00 respectively. While the HND 1 and 2 Science and Non Science are to pay 77,600,00 and 72,700,00.
For the Non indigent students, ND 1 and 2 Science and Non Science students will be required to pay a sum of 77,600.00 and 74,100.00 while the HND 1 and 2 Science and Non science students are to pay 86,000.00 and 81,000.00

Amudipe Opeyemi Marcus
TCC NEWS
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/30-percent-reduction-in-tuition-fees--relief-for-Rufus-Giwa-Polytechnic-students

[url][/url]‘Members of Owo Development Association, Akoko branch have described the efforts of the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu at placing the Sunshine State on the world map of industrialised states as commendable.

The group, which spoke through its Ikare Akoko Chairman, Mr John Ola Owoputi, during a chat with The Hope after an extra-ordinary meeting in Oka Akoko, said it would do everything possible to rally support for the governor.

Owoputi declared that as a result of the laudable achievements of the governor, indigenes of Owo in Akoko and other parts of the state can walk tall in their host communities.

In the same vein, the Group Coordinator, Pastor Festus Oloye said the recent efforts of the governor in industrialising the state and the visible evidences of the commencement is remarkable.

Pastor Oloye said the governor has proved that dedication and commitment to a conscious efforts on the part of those in the helm of administration can transform Ondo State and indeed Nigeria to an economic giant.

He said that the governor has shown a great commitment to achieving the five-point agenda of his administration which include jobs creation through agriculture, entrepreneurship and industrialisation.

According to him, the Ore Industrial Park alone which is situated on 1000 hectares of land, which is a global standard, will in a long way meet the increasing demand for cost competitive industrial zone in Nigeria

Pastor Oloye therefore called on the people of the state to rally round the governor in his bid to take the state to an economic eldorado.

Meanwhile, the group has put in place plans to commence a ‘house to house’ and ‘one on one’ campaign for the second term bid for the governor.

According to the chairman of a committee set up for this development, Michael Asubiojo, the governor as an indigene of Owo has done them proud and the only way to reciprocate this is by ensuring that the governor succeeds in his second term bid.

Asubuojo told The Hope that in the next few weeks, the plans and programmes for the campaign will be unfolded.
Source http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/%E2%80%98Akeredolu-putting-Ondo-on-World-map-of-industrialised-states%E2%80%99

The Ikare-Akoko Council of Chiefs, under the Owa-Ale of Ikare, Oba Kolapo Adegbite-Adedoyin, has expressed satisfaction with the performance of Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State in the last two-and-a-half years.

This was contained in a communiqué issued by three members of the council at the end of its monthly meeting held at the Palace of Owa-Ale and made available to the newsmen on Sunday in Akure.

The three members, who signed the communiqué, were the Olokoja of Okoja, High Chief Idowu Ogunye; the Olona of Okegbe, High Chief Rafiu Okunade and Onikún of Ikú, High Chief Mukaila Bello.

The council specifically expressed appreciation to the governor for the reconstruction of the hilly Oke Alabojuto, the dualisation of Ikare township road as well as the renovation of some schools in the town.

It also commended Akeredolu for appointing a former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Fatai Olotu, as Commissioner for Lands and Housing.

The council, however, appealed to the governor to urgently look into the deplorable condition of Awara dam and Okoja-Ikú-Ikare road which, it said, had become impassable.

The council notes, with concern, the deplorable condition of Okoja-Ikú-Ikare Stadium road and pleads with the governor to extend his road construction revolution there.

“The Council of Chiefs, under the Owa-Ale, also thanks our amiable governor for keeping his electioneering promises, especially to the people of Ikare-Akoko. So far, you have not disappointed us.

“We use this medium to appeal to you on the abandoned Ikare township stadium and to resuscitate the Awara dam which used to supply potable water to most parts of Akoko land but which has been abandoned by successive administrations.
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ikare-Akoko-chiefs-laud-Akeredolu-on-road-projects

IN response to the unacceptable growing cases of rape in the country, I encourage women of all ages to undertake Taekwondo training for self- defence.

“And in line with what Eneke the bird said: Since men have learned to shoot without missing, I have learned to fly without perching.”

These were the words of the Ondo governor’s wife, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu during a visit to the Ondo Police Commissioner of Police, Mr. Undie Adie in Akure to personally deliver a protest letter to express her disdain over the rate of rape cases across the state.

Determined to curb incidences of rape in the state, Mrs. Akeredolu said females both young and old would be trained in Taekwondo as a self- defence against the menace in the state.

According to her, the decision was taken following the recent rape of a 300 level student of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko last week by a soldier, Sunday Awolola, at a military checkpoint.

She expressed her displeasure over the rising cases of rape in the state in recent times and urged victims to fight for their rights.

The randy soldier had been dismissed and charged to court by the Ondo Police Command after he was handed over to the police by the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier-General Zakari Abubakar.

The governor’s wife was accompanied to the Police Commissioner’s office by a trained Taekwondo expert, whose services had been engaged by her to show her determination.

Akeredolu appealed to the Police to ensure that the perpetrators are treated as criminals for violating a civilian and be prosecuted accordingly.

She said: “I am making a public announcement that we are going to promote Taekwondo in Ondo State, all our daughters will learn Taekwondo for our safety because if the student had the skill, those randy soldiers couldn’t have been able to overcome her.”

Also, she said: “If the case of Soldiers rape in Army uniform is not swept under the carpet and the perpetrators are made to face the wrath of the law, it would serve as a deterrent to others.”

Responding, the Commissioner of Police Undie Adie assured the governor’s wife that the issue would be given the desired seriousness, noting that the Police have not been taken rape cases with levity.

In fulfilment of the commitment of his administration to further develop the state and open up the road network, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Thursday flagged off the construction of the 8.0km Akure-Oda Dual Carriageway.

The governor said the construction of the road is another opportunity to demonstrate the commitment of his administration to the change mantra of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), designed to ensure the general welfare of the people and bring the benefits of good governance to their doorsteps in every nook and cranny of the State.

Governor Akeredolu said his administration was not unaware of the enormous discomfort being experienced by the people as they traverse through the road, especially the residents of Oda-town, including the estates situated within the road corridor.

Arakunrin Akeredolu, who addressed the mammoth crowd at the flag off ceremony, said his administration is delivering a new asset, a new lifestyle and a new era of property appreciation and bequeathing an enduring legacy to the incoming generation.

He said: "But it does not end here, it is only a precursor to an unending positive multiplier effects on the economy and social life of the people.

"While the road is being constructed, we will have more than a sizeable number of our people working and earning their living on a daily basis, and by the time you factor in those who supply construction materials, you can imagine the multiplier effect of this project and of course, the advantages it portends to the people, such as decrease in travel time, increase in the lifespan of vehicles, increased interconnectivity with other roads, such as the Oba Osupa-Hospital-Ijoka Road via Ijigba Road."

While explaining the various features of the road, the Governor informed that, "This 8.0km road, when completed, would consist of 2.7km dual carriageway and 5.3km single carriageway and would have standard facilities such as 1.5m walkway on both sides, 1m width median fitted with street light, 600mm x 750mm drains, 200mm lateritic sub-base course, 200mm stone base course, 50mm asphaltic binder course, 40mm asphaltic wearing course, among others. "

Akeredolu said his administration will not take its foot off the pedal until all communities in the state are transformed .

He said several roads spread across the state are under construction, while some have been completed by his administration as part of its efforts to improve the living condition of the people.

"As I speak to you, we are working on the following strategic and qualitative projects among others, at different levels of completion: Reconstruction of ‘A’ Division - Ijoka Road to a dual carriageway, Reconstruction of Ikare Township Road to a dual carriageway, Reconstruction of the Road from Emure-AUD and from the Ministry of Works - Iyere Junction in Owo to a dual carriageway

"Construction of Fly-Over across Lagos-Benin Expressway, Construction of Gaga Community Road in Akure, Rehabilitation of Ibuji-Igbara-Oke Road, Construction of Okitipupa-Igbokoda Bypass Road, Construction of Sabomi Township Roads, Construction of Ireakari II-Seebi-Ogun Ojobo/Odanikin- Irese Road Junction Akure," Governor Akeredolu said.

He appreciated the good people of the state for their co-operation and unwavering solidarity in the last two and half years.

Arakunrin Akeredolu assured the people that he is irrevocably committed to the completion of all the ongoing projects in the state, in spite of the dwindling resources.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
15th August, 2019
Source
http://www.ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu-Flags-Off-Akure-Oda-Dual-Carriageway--Says-It's-A-New-Era-in-Ondo

In fulfilment of the commitment of his administration to further develop the state and open up the road network, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Thursday flagged off the construction of the 8.0km Akure-Oda Dual Carriageway.

The governor said the construction of the road is another opportunity to demonstrate the commitment of his administration to the change mantra of his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), designed to ensure the general welfare of the people and bring the benefits of good governance to their doorsteps in every nook and cranny of the State.

Governor Akeredolu said his administration was not unaware of the enormous discomfort being experienced by the people as they traverse through the road, especially the residents of Oda-town, including the estates situated within the road corridor.

Arakunrin Akeredolu, who addressed the mammoth crowd at the flag off ceremony, said his administration is delivering a new asset, a new lifestyle and a new era of property appreciation and bequeathing an enduring legacy to the incoming generation.

He said: "But it does not end here, it is only a precursor to an unending positive multiplier effects on the economy and social life of the people.

"While the road is being constructed, we will have more than a sizeable number of our people working and earning their living on a daily basis, and by the time you factor in those who supply construction materials, you can imagine the multiplier effect of this project and of course, the advantages it portends to the people, such as decrease in travel time, increase in the lifespan of vehicles, increased interconnectivity with other roads, such as the Oba Osupa-Hospital-Ijoka Road via Ijigba Road."

While explaining the various features of the road, the Governor informed that, "This 8.0km road, when completed, would consist of 2.7km dual carriageway and 5.3km single carriageway and would have standard facilities such as 1.5m walkway on both sides, 1m width median fitted with street light, 600mm x 750mm drains, 200mm lateritic sub-base course, 200mm stone base course, 50mm asphaltic binder course, 40mm asphaltic wearing course, among others. "

Akeredolu said his administration will not take its foot off the pedal until all communities in the state are transformed .

He said several roads spread across the state are under construction, while some have been completed by his administration as part of its efforts to improve the living condition of the people.

"As I speak to you, we are working on the following strategic and qualitative projects among others, at different levels of completion: Reconstruction of ‘A’ Division - Ijoka Road to a dual carriageway, Reconstruction of Ikare Township Road to a dual carriageway, Reconstruction of the Road from Emure-AUD and from the Ministry of Works - Iyere Junction in Owo to a dual carriageway

"Construction of Fly-Over across Lagos-Benin Expressway, Construction of Gaga Community Road in Akure, Rehabilitation of Ibuji-Igbara-Oke Road, Construction of Okitipupa-Igbokoda Bypass Road, Construction of Sabomi Township Roads, Construction of Ireakari II-Seebi-Ogun Ojobo/Odanikin- Irese Road Junction Akure," Governor Akeredolu said.

He appreciated the good people of the state for their co-operation and unwavering solidarity in the last two and half years.

Arakunrin Akeredolu assured the people that he is irrevocably committed to the completion of all the ongoing projects in the state, in spite of the dwindling resources.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
15th August, 2019
Source
http://www.ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu-Flags-Off-Akure-Oda-Dual-Carriageway--Says-It's-A-New-Era-in-Ondo

The Olowa and Paramount Ruler of Igbara-Oke kingdom, HRM, Oba Dr. Francis Adefarakanni Agbede has extolled the virtues of the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN and his wife, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu saying, this government has brought unprecedented development to the state in the last three years.

Oba Agbede made the remark at the opening ceremony of a two week “2019 Bemore Summer Boot Camp” holding at Ilara-Mokin in Ondo State. The monarch disclosed the extent of his assessment of the present administration in areas of Health, Education and provision of rural infratstructures across the state.

According to him, achievements at the Bemore Empowerment training project will linger long in the memories of the children as soon as they master one trade or the other to become employers of labour later in life.

While charging the beneficiaries to always make good use of the golden opportunity Arabirin Akeredolu has offered them, Oba Agbede is optimistic that these young girls being empowered will never forget the kind hearted first lady of Ondo State, since children hardly forget their benefactors.

Earlier in her address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the state, Hon. Lola Fagbemi described Arabirin Akeredolu as a legend among women and of eloquent value who has laid a landmark for herself and generations yet unborn.

Hon. Fagbemi applauded the efforts of Arabirin Akeredolu, who is doing is a wonderful works in all affairs that concerns young girls and women. She added that, these young girls can rule the world going by the kind exposure the wife of the Governor is offering them.

Speaking at the occasion, the wife of Ondo state Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu disclosed that her pet project, Bemore has reshaped ed over 750 young girls child.

According to her, the programme has afforded over 750 girls to have divers training that will change the narrative of the girl child while another batch of 250 girls are currently undergoing a similar training for the year 2019 Summer Boot Camp.

Arabinrin Akeredolu gave a brief disposition of all trades that are capable to reshape the lives of the girls that were drawn from all the 18 local government areas of the state.

She how ever welcomed the girls to what she described as unending opportunities where their capabilities are limitless, and also assured the participants that they will learn all they need to become a complete woman.

Speaking as a mother, she counselled the young girls to stop seeing themselves as inferior to their male counterparts adding that they will be synosure of all eyes if they submit themselves to the golden opportunity the training will offers.
Source
http://www.ondoevents.com/2019/08/14/akeredolu-has-performed-creditably-well-ondo-monarch/[/quote]

Hundreds of articulated vehicles now throng the Ondo/Linyi Cassava Ethanol factory in Ore to load ethanol as the company which commenced operations few months ago now produces 6,000 metric tonnes of ethanol daily.

Our correspondent who visited the factory saw some of the articulated vehicles being loaded with the product.

The Company’s Manager, Mr Oyeye Destiny who spoke with our correspondent during the visit said the factory needs 300 metric tonnes of cassava daily to meet production, thus creating huge market for cassava growers in the state and beyond.

Oyeye told The Hope that the ethanol being produced in the factory is of high quality and one of the best that could be found in the market.

He disclosed that most of their customers are from both Oyo and Lagos states.

According to him, the factory load more than 100 articulated vehicles per day “We may need to increase our production per day because we are experiencing increase in customers on the daily basis as they are trooping to the factory to buy ethanol,” he added.

He added that the demands are high, and the workers are working day and night to meet demands.

Oyeye confirmed that the ethanol is the most marketable item in the world today.

His words: “Demands are high and the plant has enough raw material that can sustain it throughout the year.

Presently, our warehouse is full of cassava and once cassava in the various farms and from our customers are ready for harvest, more raw material will be brought to the plant to be converted to ethanol.”

”This plant receives several customers per day and more than 100 articulated vehicles are loaded on daily basis with ethanol. I must confess to you that ethanol here is 98percent concentration, it is not diluted like it is done elsewhere.

” We are ready to give our customers the best, reason we are shunning out the best ethanol at the Ondo/Linyi Industrial Park. The product is the best in Nigeria, reason we are receiving more customers on daily basis.”

“Ethanol is the in thing in the world now because the world is moving away from using fossil fuel as it contributes to global warming, he said.

It is a new liquid product in Nigeria and the plant in Ore, Ondo State is a product of the MoU signed between the Akeredolu’s administration and the Linyi Municipal Republic of China during the governor’s visit to China in 2017.

The cassava to ethanol plant will afford the state the unique opportunity to key into the federal government diversification programme.

Ethanol is a common ingredient in many cosmetics and beauty products. It acts as an astringent to help clean skin, in lotions as a preservation.

It is also called alcohol, ethyl alcohol and grain alcohol, is a colourless liquid and principal ingredient in alcoholic beverages like beer, wine or brandy.
Source
https://www.thehopenewspaper.com/ondo-linyi-ethanol-factory-produces-6000-tonnes-daily/[/quote]

Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Mrs Betty Akeredolu, says she has trained over one thousand girls in ICT, solar renewal energy and other skill acquisitions since inception of the Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu-led administration.

Akeredolu made this known on Monday at the opening of a training programme tagged: “Bemore Summer Bootcamp for Girls in Naija” held in Ilara-Mokin, Ifedore Local Government area of the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the programme, which will end on Aug. 24, is the initiative of the governor’s wife.

It is aimed at training girls in various skills during the holiday.

The skills include: solar energy, ICT, Taekwondo, soap making and make-up, among others.

She said that the programme had changed the narrative of the girl-child to facilitate a world that would unleash the potential of the girls rather than regimenting them.

“We are here today to train another set of girls who will join their compatriots already on the battle field fighting for the cause of women, showing to the world that women can be more than what the society says they are.

“I am sure that after this training, my girls will stand for themselves; they will never put their dependence on any man.

“They will walk shoulder to shoulder, hand in hand with the male folk to achieve a prosperous society for us all.

“The duty is for persons of both genders to create a society that is free of violence, free from atrocities and from all forms of intimidation and harassment.


“A society that must grow and be sustained is a society that does not discriminate by any means, especially gender,” Akeredolu said.

The governor’s wife said that the training would also afford the girls the opportunity to be trained on taekwondo so as to enable them to provide self-defence when there was any issue of rape, by any means.

She expressed her displeasure over the rising cases of rape in the state in recent time, and urged victims to fight for their rights and never keep quiet anytime it occurred.

In his remarks, Mr Gbenga Edema, Chairman, Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC), described the governor’s wife as a nation builder.

Edema said that she had helped many girls to build their careers by catching them young in technology.

He said that the programme had afforded thousands of girls in the state the opportunity to develop solar for both commercial and domestic use.

Also, the Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Oba Adefarakanmi Agbede, commended the governor’s wife for introducing the girls to technology that would help them develop the nation.

Agbede said that the state was fortunate enough to have Akeredolu, assuring her that traditional rulers were solidly behind the present administration in state.
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu%E2%80%99s-wife-trains-1-000-girls-in-ICT--solar-energy

As part of the bids to further boost the transportation sector as well as create more jobs, Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has launched the Sunshine Travels mass transit Busses.

The scheme is a Public Private Partnership between the Ondo State Government and Peace Mass Transit.

The Sunshine Travels is another successful testimony of the investment drive of the Akeredolu’s administration to open up the state for various investments opportunities.

Flagging off the Busses at the Bus Terminus, along Oyemekun road, opposite Champion Junction, Akure, on Saturday, Akeredolu said the state government had to look for other ways of achieving the goal of a 'state carrier' having seen how the defunct Owena Mass Transit, which the state Government floated in the past, failed as it became unsustainable for the government to run.

Akeredolu, who said transportation remains one of the potent means of conveying both human and material resources from one place to another for productive means, stressed that it is the driver of the economy.

According to the Governor, the new transport scheme has provided employment opportunities for the people of the state, as over Ninety Five percent of the drivers employed are indegenes of the state.

The governor also informed that the new scheme is a driver/Owner initiative, in which the bus drivers could be the owners of the buses after paying installmentally for a few years.

Akeredolu, who said his administration has facilitated a new transport system, explained that the facilities at the bus terminus included a good accommodation where passengers who journeyed into the state late in the night and wish to spend the night in Akure before proceeding could sleep.

The Governor said:"When the management of Peace Mass Transit approached us to collaborate in the establishment of the project, we did not hesitate in partnering them because we know the economic and social benefit of this project to our state regarding a lease of transportation, job opportunities, enhanced IGR, cultural integration, export of our produce to other placed and the projection of our state brand

"The Ondo State Sunshine Travels will provide state-of-the - art vehicles for inter and intra-state travels for our people. These buses will guarantee vehicular safety and comfort for the people of the state at affordable prices

"It will also facilitate accessibility to other parts of the state, the country at large, and greatly boost economic activities endeavours and cultural integration

"This scheme will provide job opportunities for our people as we have seen now. The personnel and staff of the Ondo State Sunshine Travels are primarily Ondo State indigenes. This will alos contribute to our IGR."

The governor said his administration recognises the needs of the people of the state and it is workinug tirelessly to ensure that everyone enjoys adequate social amenities that will ensure better standard of living.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
10th August, 2019

� Blessed Michael
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu-Launches-New-Mass-Transit-Buses-In-Ondo

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Friday declared that traditional rulers will soon begin to play strategic roles in solving the security challenges confronting the South West Region.

The governor said the emerging Security Model being initiated by Governors of Southwest states, Nigeria will ensure that Royal Fathers, local hunters and youths are given strategic roles to play to secure the geo political zone effectively.

Arakunrin Akeredolu, who spoke at the official presentation of the Instrument of office to the new Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, Oba Segun Akinyomi, said that the security of lives and property has become multidimensional to be left for government without citizens' collaboration and cooperation.

He said that genuine information to burst potential security threats must be made available on time to ward off all forms of criminalities.

The Governor also enjoined the new Amapetu to make deliberate efforts to reconcile with groups and individuals not pleased with his enthronement.

Arakunrin Akeredolu harped on the veritable place of traditional institution to accelerate development across the state.

The governor used the occasion to showcase some of the landmark achievements of his administration, which he described as the share of the developmental strides of his government.

The governor listed some of the projects, both completed and ongoing to include: Construction of Okitipupa- Igbokoda By- Pass 15km; Construction of Igbokoda-Ayetoro Phase 3 Road; Rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Igbokoda-Ugbonla Road Route 1 include bridge repair.

Others are: Clearing, opening and filling of Igbokoda-Ayetoro Oropo spur and Oke-Ipare-Olopo spur, 4.6km; design completed and contractor mobilized to site; Construction of Aboto-Atijere 6.5km Road and Clearing of waterways is being promptly carried out.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
9th August, 2019

�Olawale Abolade
Source
http://www.ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Traditional-Rulers-To-Play-Key-Role-In-Security--Says-Akeredolu

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Friday declared that traditional rulers will soon begin to play strategic roles in solving the security challenges confronting the South West Region.

The governor said the emerging Security Model being initiated by Governors of Southwest states, Nigeria will ensure that Royal Fathers, local hunters and youths are given strategic roles to play to secure the geo political zone effectively.

Arakunrin Akeredolu, who spoke at the official presentation of the Instrument of office to the new Amapetu of Mahin Kingdom, Oba Segun Akinyomi, said that the security of lives and property has become multidimensional to be left for government without citizens' collaboration and cooperation.

He said that genuine information to burst potential security threats must be made available on time to ward off all forms of criminalities.

The Governor also enjoined the new Amapetu to make deliberate efforts to reconcile with groups and individuals not pleased with his enthronement.

Arakunrin Akeredolu harped on the veritable place of traditional institution to accelerate development across the state.

The governor used the occasion to showcase some of the landmark achievements of his administration, which he described as the share of the developmental strides of his government.

The governor listed some of the projects, both completed and ongoing to include: Construction of Okitipupa- Igbokoda By- Pass 15km; Construction of Igbokoda-Ayetoro Phase 3 Road; Rehabilitation and asphalt overlay of Igbokoda-Ugbonla Road Route 1 include bridge repair.

Others are: Clearing, opening and filling of Igbokoda-Ayetoro Oropo spur and Oke-Ipare-Olopo spur, 4.6km; design completed and contractor mobilized to site; Construction of Aboto-Atijere 6.5km Road and Clearing of waterways is being promptly carried out.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
9th August, 2019

�Olawale Abolade
Source
http://www.ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Traditional-Rulers-To-Play-Key-Role-In-Security--Says-Akeredolu

Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka, has hailed the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, over the giant infrastructural strides of his administration in the state.

Soyinka who commended Akeredolu for his good works , also congratulated the people of the state for electing Governor Akeredolu as their Governor.

The Nobel Laureate, who was in the state for the 2019 Fagunwa Study Group International Conference, was personally driven and conducted round some projects of the Akeredolu’s administration in Akure, the state capital.

The Governor and other members of the state executive Council alongside Soyinka were at the 'A'Division/NEPA as well as the ongoing dualisation of NEPA/Oluwatuyi round about.

Soyinka said "the fact shows the light", explaining that it took him some time to recognise the A'Division/NEPA and NEPA/Olukayode ongoing dualisation project because of the serious infrastructural transformation that is going on in the area.

The Nobel Laureate who disclosed that he has been on constant visit to the state in the course of his literary work, observed that governor Akeredolu has changed the face of the state.

� Nguher Gabrielle Zaki
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Soyinka-Hails-Akeredolu

Members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Ondo State chapter on Thursday said the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, must recontest for a second term in Office.

The mammoth crowd who are visibly joyful workers, expressed their delights, adding that they have benefitted immensely from Akeredolu led's administration.

Speaking through the State NULGE President, Comrade Bola Taiwo at the occasion of the State Delegates Conference held in Akure, the State Capital, the local government workers listed some of the achievements of the Governor as "approval for 2018 and 2019 promotion and payment of the 2017 leave bonus to the Local government workers.

"Apart from this, the union also got the approval of Mr. Governor for the conduct of absorption and conversion exercise to deserving workers in the local government service.

"We are also glad that this administration on assumption of offfice in February 2017, inherited backlog of unpaid salary arrears of seven months and leave bonus and in your fulfilment of your promise to prioritise workers' welfare, you have not only paid five months of the salary arrears at the local government level and you have also been consistent and prompt in the payment of salaries since the inception of your administration ".

The NULGE President particularly appreciated the effort of the Local Government Service Commission Chairman, Hon. Femi Idris for his unassuming understanding and support for the workers.

While responding, Governor Akeredolu said he is fully aware and appreciative of the enviable progress and achievements of the present NULGE leadership in the past six years of its existence.

The Governor, particularly appreciated the peaceful and harmonious labour relations in all the local government councils of the state.

Akeredolu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Agboola Ajayi said his administration has enjoyed a good working relationship with NULGE, adding that it has resulted in the promotion of peace and development of the State.

The Governor assured the workers that he is committed to continue improving on the good works his administration has started, stressing that he will not derail on the noble path.

He, however, charged the leadership of NULGE and all workers in the local government service of the state to continue to identify and support the state government in the execution of its various people-oriented and worker-friendly policies which are geared toward the progress and development of the state.

End

� Olawale Abolade
Source
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Military-doing-well-under-civilian--says-Akeredolu

Following the recent incessant kidnappings cases in the six South West States, a plan by the Inspector General of Police, Adamu Muhammed to deploy Anti-Kidnapping Special Squad to the region to rid off these bandits is now at the top gear.

This was revealed on Wednessay, by the Deputy Inspector General (DIG)Police in Charge of Operations, Abdulmajid Ali, while on a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN at the Governor's office in Akure, the State Capital.

Akeredolu was represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Agboola Ajayi.

Ali, accompanied by the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) in charge of zone 11, Leye Oyebade and the State Commissioner of Police, Undie Adie, said the squad members are currently undergoing training in Abuja and will soon be dispatched to Ondo State and other south west states to curb crimes.

The DIG commiserated with the state government over the killing of Mrs. Funke Olakunori, the daughter of Afenifere leader, Pa. Reuben Fasoranti, saying the Nigerian police is keen on making the country safe for every Nigerian.

According to him" I am sent by the Inspector General of Police not only to Ondo State but to other south west states to see the security architecture on ground and as well as to see how to redesign the security apparatus

"I decided to start with Ondo before I go to Ekiti and Osun because Ondo being one of the focus states of recent, I believe we need to sit down with my officers here and see how we can merge ahead.

"I want to let you know that the Inspector of General of Police is mindful of what has been happening particularly along the road as well as some of these miscreants disturbing the peace of the people.

"I also want you know that security is one of the first pillar of any government in doing any service to the people. If security is not provided, there won't be peace in that area and the governor too will find it difficult to operate.

"We are aware of our responsibility. The Inspector General has put in place a very strong team that are are on training now and in the next two weeks, they will be out and Ondo and other south west states have been the place of focus.

"We are deploying them here to take charge of security and to work with our men on ground. I can assure you that the place will definitely have a change because when the membere of the Special Squad are around. I want to assure you that peace will reign again in Ondo state and other south west states.

The Deputy Governor, Agboola Ajayi, who responded on behalf of the Governor said he was worried on the recent insecurity in the State and other South West States, saying Ondo state was not known to be a dumping ground for crime.

He particularly charged the Police to arrest killers of Mrs. Funke Olakunori, saying that is a debt that must be paid by the Nigerian Police.

Ajayi noted that it is high time the police embraced digital policing fully to curb kidnapping and other violent crimes in the country.

He added "the police must also engage the community. This is very important. Even if you have 200,000 policemen in a community, you need the corporation of the people in that community for you to be able to carry out your job effectively"

He said the police must map out strategy to secure the boundaries and other flashpoints in the state.

The Deputy Governor assured the visitors that the State government would give necessary supports that would enable the security men to chase criminals out of the state.

End

� Olawale Abolade
Source http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/IG-to-deploy-special-squad-to-Ondo--other-South-West-States-over-Insecurity

While taking his oath of office on Friday, February 24, 2017, Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN) gave the people of Ondo State a message of “hope, clear agenda of prosperity and a vision of life abundant.”

In marshaling his plans to ensure that his blueprint of abundant prosperity for the people succeeds, Akeredolu had set up a Strategic Development and Policy Implementation Committee, to set the tone for the new administration.

The committee, which was made up of seasoned technocrats, came up with a five-point agenda that was aimed at: 1. Job creation through agriculture, entrepreneurship and industrialisation; 2. Massive infrastructural development and maintenance; 3. Provision of functional education and technological growth; 4. Provision of accessible and quality health care and social service delivery and 5 Rural development and community extension services.

A little over two-and-a-half years after, Akeredolu has delivered on those promises, scoring high marks on the people’s score sheet. For a man who is determined to make a mark and leave the state better than he met it, nothing less was expected of him.

In his first year in office, Governor Akeredolu recorded unprecedented success in road construction. Taking into consideration the economic situation of the state at the time, the number of roads constructed was nothing but magical.

The administration inherited decayed and derelict infrastructure. The roads, even in the capital city, were pockmarked with craters and gullies. For the people, especially those of the northern and southern senatorial districts, the roads had become death traps.

From Ikare-Akoko to Oka-Akoko and to other areas in Ilaje and Ese-Odo local government areas, stories of multiple deaths caused by damaged portions of the roads became a daily feature of our lives.

At the notorious Oke-Oka and Oke-Alabojuto roads in Oka and Ikare respectively, entire families have been wiped out multiple times.



But, in two years, the story has changed. Governor Akeredolu has done what many thought was impossible and there are new songs on the lips of the people. The mythical Oke-Alabojuto Hill in Ikare has given way to the bulldozers deployed by Akeredolu, leaving the people marveling.

And in Owo, the ancient town has been further opened up for development with dual carriage ways, fitted with beautiful street lights. This transformation of the town has led to a coinage by the people: Ogho ti segwa, which translates into Owo is now beautiful.

In the Central Senatorial Zone, Akure is gradually wearing a true status of a state capital. The major roads around the capital city are wearing new looks. Residents of the State Hospital Road, Oke-Ogba, Iwalewa, Abusoro, Isarun, Idanre, Igbara-Oke and many other towns are hailing the governor for a good job, while the construction of new road networks in the Alagbaka area has continued to wow the people who now refer to the area as their own Banana Island.

Good things are happening in the Southern Senatorial District. The first ever overhead bridge in Ondo State is nearing completion in Ore. Aside from the aesthetics; the bridge is expected to put an end to the traffic problems which travellers encounter at the Ore-Benin Expressway intersection.

Months after the construction of the roads in Sabome and Ajagba has been completed, the people are still in wonderland. This was the opinion of Sunday Leji, a resident who said the people never believed anything good could come from the government to the people.

With no single senatorial zone left out of the major infrastructural boost blowing across the state, the Governor Akeredolu administration has completed the construction of more than 50 roads and still counting.

The governor, from his first day in office, has maintained his unflinching interest in the welfare of workers of the public service. For him, the workers’ welfare is very strategic to the success of the government.

On assumption of office in February, 2017, Akeredolu met a disturbing state of affairs. The workers were being owed a backlog of seven months’ salaries. The children were sent out of school because their parents could not pay their fees, and families separated because the man could not perform his responsibility of catering to the needs of his family.

The workers have moved on from a season when they looked to the future with little hope and their children were sent out of school because their parents could not pay their fees, to a new season of abundance and hope.

Akeredolu has kept to his vow, clearing six of the seven months’ salary backlogs. For the first time in a long while, the workers have earned their salaries more than 24 months unbroken! The government has also paid the workers their leave allowances. Without doubt, these are feats some people said were impossible to achieve a little less than two years ago.

Within two-and-a-half years, the governor appointed about 44 permanent secretaries, righting the wrongs that have been done to many top civil servants by past administrations.

Currently, the state is gradually changing the ignoble tag of a ‘civil service’ state to a state driven by industries and privately-oriented businesses. From less than N500, 000 every month, the Akeredolu administration has grown the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to a little less than N2 billion every month.

It was, therefore, no mean feat when the Joint Tax Board (JTB), a body of all the tax authorities in Nigeria, declared Ondo State as the most improved state in internal revenue generation for last year.

To sustain the feat and continue to boost the state’s revenue generation drive, the state recently employed about 234 young graduates.

To ensure that the gains of the last two-and-a-half years are not reversed, the administration has embarked on a massive industrial revolution that is already changing the face of the state. On the last count, no fewer than five new industries have settled and began operations in the Ore Industrial Hub.

The last time a deliberate and genuine efforts with visible results were made to industrialise the state was during the administration of the first civilian governor, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, between 1979 and 1984. The Oluwa Glass Company and the Okitipupa Oil Palm were the pride of the state at the time.
source: https://thenationonlineng.net/akeredolu-two-and-a-half-years-later/

The Ondo State Government has expressed its readiness to establish the first Driving Institute at the premises of the State Haulage and Equipment Centre at Oba-Ile.

The institute, which would be in partnership with a private firm under Private Partnership agreement would have facilities for training of drivers before the issuance of driver’s license and motorcycle riders before they would be granted rider’s permit.

The Special Adviser to Ondo State Governor on Transport, Mr Tobi Ogunleye, while conducting the governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu round the facilities yesterday, said the state government was no longer comfortable with carnage on the road occasioned by amateurish driving and riding.

Ogunleye explained that the driving institute was in line with the Blueprint to Progress under the leadership of Arakunrin Akeredolu.

His words: “We believe that this place has been under utilized. It is too big and too wide to be used for just dumping impounded vehicles.

“We realised that the training and learning culture of our road users, the motorists, the motorcyclists, the tricyclists, has been zero. Most of those carrying drivers’ license cannot justify the license. How can you reconcile a sane driver that is driving against traffic and he will still carry driver’s license? This calls for suspicion.

“For this reason, this centre, the Ondo State Drivers’/Riders’ Institute would be for training and re-training of okada riders who have never undergone training before. Most of the riders who just bought okada will just jump onto the roads without any training, thereby endangering the lives of innocent people.

“So, this government is government of life and not government of death. And that is why the centre is going to be first of its kind in the South-West and Nigeria. The driver or rider is the trustee of your life for the period you are going to be with him until you alight from his vehicle, and as such he must be a competent person.

“So, any trustee of your life in this regard must be certified to have prerequisite training, and that is why the government of Ondo State has approved this place for the training and re-training of drivers and riders on our roads,” he stressed.

Ogunleye added that necessary training equipment would be provided at the centre .

He said ‘Go-Kada’, an Executive Motorbike transport system to be introduced at the centre would be a special means of transportation for commuters in the state.

Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, has continued its steady rise to global reckoning as the institution began another collaborative effort with the University of Missouri, USA, aimed at boosting curriculum development and counseling.

The latest effort was crystallised when the representative of the American University, Dr. Mary Edwin, visited AAUA, a development, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Olugbenga Ige, said was another addition to other collaborative agreements that Ajasin Varsity had with several universities across the world.

Ige, who received the visitor on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, expressed optimism that the latest effort would boost academic content of AAUA, including its curriculum and counseling units.

On her part, Dr. Edwin pledged the commitment of the American University to the arrangement with a promise that the concerned units would be better for it at the end of the day.

Accompanied by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo state on Innovation and Partnership, Mr. Joel Ogunsola, the visiting American don said she was impressed with the beautiful ambience and neatness of AAUA campus.

Present at the event were the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Francis Gbore; the acting Registrar, Mr. Opeoluwa Akinfemiwa; the Bursar, Mrs. Olubunmi Ologun, FCA; Deans of Postgraduate School, Prof. C. A. Daramola; and Education, Prof. Iyabo Omoniyi; among other officers.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has reiterated his administration's passion for the development of all sectors of the state's economy.

He particularly singled out tourism as a sector that would enjoy robust support.

The governor spoke during a courtesy visit to his office by the Owa of Idanre Kingdom, Oba Frederick Adegunle Aroloye on Monday.

According to the governor, Idanre is the most important tourist centre in Ondo State and the state will welcome investors to partner with the state to develop the site.

He said: 'We will try our best to ensure that Idanre hill is fully developed as a tourist centre."

Speaking earlier, Oba Frederick Aroloye hailed the governor for providing the dividend of good governance across the state.

The monarch, who expressed his support for Akeredolu's administration, described as commendable the governor's efforts at industrializing the state.

� Blessed Michael

PRINCESS EIGBOKHAN ORIH
TCC NEWS

Good Governance is an approach to government that is committed to creating a system founded in justice and peace that protects individual’s human rights and civil liberties. Good Governance is measured by the eight factors of Participation, Rule of Law, Transparency, Responsiveness, Consensus Oriented, Equity and Inclusiveness, Effectiveness and Efficiency, and Accountability.
The concept of "good governance" then emerges as a model to compare ineffective economies or political bodies with viable economies and political bodies.
The concept centers on the responsibility of governments and governing bodies to meet the needs of the masses as opposed to select groups in society.
Most states in Nigeria have not really experience ‘’good governance’’ in the true concept of the word good governance by meeting the needs of the masses who elect them to power.
Before Governor Owarotinmi Akeredolu took the staff of office in 2017, Ondo State was not an exception as the people suffered especially in the area of having potable water which is a basic amenity for the people of the state.
Water is essential to the wellbeing of citizens; it is rather unfortunate that its accessibility was as low as 4% (percent) to the entire population of Ondo State at the inception of the present administration under the leadership of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
Drinking water comes from a variety of sources including public water systems, private wells, or bottled water. Ensuring safe and healthy drinking water may be as simple as turning on the tap. It is important to know where drinking water comes from, how it’s been treated, and if it’s safe to drink.
Research has shown that half of the Ondo State's hospital beds were filled with people suffering from a water-related disease. In developing countries, about 80% of illnesses are linked to poor water and sanitation conditions. 1 out of every 5 deaths under the age of 5 is due to a water-related disease. Clean and safe water is essential to healthy living.
Contaminated water can cause many types of diseases, such as Cholera, and other serious illnesses like Guinea worm disease, Typhoid, and Dysentery. These were some of the major problems facing the people of Ondo State before Akeredolu got to office.
Rural dwellers and the urban poor feel the lack of safe water and proper sanitation in the State. The poor are particularly vulnerable to chronic illnesses that hinder their productivity, making the escape from poverty even more difficult.
The dangers of dirty water and the power of a safe clean and hygienic Water is a foundational element of life and is vital to the wellbeing of families.
In the quest of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu administration’s commitment towards providing potable water supply across the State he has rehabilitated over 750 boreholes in about 300 communities through the Ondo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, RUWASSA.
This agency is setting a New Direction for the provision of adequate, safe and accessible water in rural and small towns across the state and also achieving tangible benefits to health for Ondo State citizens.
Through this projection, the Ondo State Government is aiming to meet the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goal Six which centers on Water and Sanitation with an impressive percentage of performance before the year 2030.

Consequently, the Ondo State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, RUWASSA, is daily making significant progress in water accessibility delivery to citizens of Ondo State through On-the-Spot Borehole Rehabilitation, inventory and needs assessment across the 18 Local Government Areas irrespective of the technical and geological challenges.
The actual increase in the percentage of access to safe water supply through KAMOMI AKETI Accelerated Water Scheme is now 9.3%, thereby bringing the proportion of water access to 13.3% in less than seven months. This followed the declaration by Governor Akeredolu to provide potable water for all the communities in the state through Rural Water Supply and Sanitation, RUWASSA.
Governor Akeredolu’s KAMOMI AKETI initiative has been applauded across the country. Presently other State Governors have started such projects in their various states, while the federal government has imbibed this great initiative of the Akeredolu led government.
The ondo state Governor Akeredolu’s administration is measured by these eight factors Participation, Rule of Law, Transparency, Responsiveness, Consensus Oriented, Equity and Inclusiveness, Effectiveness and Efficiency, and Accountability.
Governor Akeredolu has been lauded in all the communities of the state for his good governance by being ultimately accountable to the people of the State. They described his leadership as a positive move towards changing the face of Ondo state.
Akeredolu said it was the duty of his administration to continually deliver projects and the projects he initiated will never be abandoned.
He however urged that the communities will reciprocate the gesture by cooperating with the government to make sure those boreholes in their various communities are not destroyed.
PRINCESS EIGBOKHAN ORIH
TCC NEWS

Former Edo State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, has said the incumbent governor of the state, Godwin Obaseki, deserves the support of the people of Edo State and not removal by any powerful individual.

Odigie-Oyegun, who was speaking with journalists in Benin as part of the preparation for his 80th birthday on Sunday, said removing the governor by whatever means would destabilise the state and make a mockery of her sovereignty as enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.



He said, “What is happening is a mystery to me and for funny reasons, we have been unable to get the story behind the story. All I know is that we have a government and the voice of the people says Obaseki deserves all the support that he can get.

“If anyone wants to remove him and destabilise the state, it’s wrong. The governor is delivering good governance to the people. They should wait until the party primary. I call on everyone to continue to support the governor.”

Odigie-Oyegun called on all residents of the state to be law-abiding and allow the nation’s constitution prevail irrespective of the interests of some powerful persons in the corridors of power.

“The issue in contention is before a competent court of law. Thank God we have a constitution that binds everybody. I am amazed that the National Assembly or anybody would issue instructions to a sovereign governor. I am shocked and amazed but I believe that in the coming weeks and months, the law will prevail,” he said.

The former governor maintained that as a former governor and National Chairman of the APC, he never interfered in the affairs and running of Edo State.

He noted, “I have never interfered in the running of the state but strangely, same is not the case and it is sad as people fail to realise we have two sovereignties: that of the president which reflects the nation and also the governor’s that reflects the state. Anyone that fights the governor undermines the sovereignty of the people of the state.”

Meanwhile, the Obaseki/Ogbeide-Oyo dynasty in Edo State has said there is no disharmony between the family and their son, Governor Godwin Obaseki as being insinuated in some quarters.

This came on the heel of reports that Obaseki had not only shut the door against politicians in the state but also against his extended family members.

Reading a statement by the family head, Pa Igbinokpogie Amadasun, to journalists at the family compound in Benin City, Assistant Secretary of the family, Mr Jackson Obaseki, said the governor did not close the door against his family and that members of the family were proud of the governor’s developmental strides.

“That members of the Obaseki family do not flock or hang around the Government House does not mean that they are in disharmony with the governor.

“We want to put the record straight that there is no rancour or conflicts between the governor and any section of the Obaseki/Ogbeide-Oyo family,” he said.

Pa Amadasun described rumours of the governor shutting the door against his family as “fallacious, baseless and untrue.”