₦airaland Forum

Mrs. V. A. Samson is the founder and Managing Director of the BOVAS group that was established in 1980 and which started operations as an indigenous independent petroleum marketing company in the same year. "Mama Bovas" as she is fondly called in and around Oyo state, is a marketer per excellence having an experience of over twenty-five (25) years in the Oil and Gas industry as Dealer with both Texaco Nigeria Plc and Mobil Plc. She was the first Nigerian to win the highly competitive Texaco Latin America West Africa (LAWA) Award for Best Overall Dealer in 1990 for the highest sales in both regions combined. She is the Matron of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), NNPC/PPMC Satellite Depot, Ejigbo, Lagos State and Apata Depot Ibadan, Oyo State. Mrs Samson has led meritoriously over the years, making a difference in the Oil and Gas industry and is definitely an embodiment of resilience.

#AsiwajuNiWa
#OysowaWeek
#TheResilientWoman

Governor Abiola Ajimobi's repositioning agenda is entirely apolitical in intent and aimed at having a direct impact on the peoples' lives. Regarding
# Welfare, alot has been done in the past 6 years....
# AsiwajuNiWa # AjumoseFoodBank
# AjumoseWelfare

It is now getting obvious that any attempt to disrupt the ongoing maintenance of peace and quiet anywhere in Oyo will be squashed immediately at conception.

The way and manner by which the newly recommissioned Oyo state security apparatus handled and quelled the turbulence at the Olubadan palace some moments ago, comes off as highly commendable.

The Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji, was scheduled to install new Baales and Mogaji's today, and reports from the security team on ground shows that families of the aggrieved parties who were zoned-out of new titles, shot at Safadeen Alli's (Former Oyo SSG) Jeep on his way to Palace. Some reports add that it was actually as assassination attempt on the former SSG who is a gubernatorial hopeful of the PDP come 2019.

Well, the area seems peaceful now and the promptness and professionalism showed by the security team to dispel the violence and restore calm was indeed commendable.

It is clear that the charge given by the state governor to the newly reconstituted Operation Burst team some few weeks ago, wasn't for nothing.

Kudos!

Of the close to 2,000 kilometers of roads reportedly built by the present administration in Oyo state over the past 6 years, an impressive chunk of it are a network of urban and rural roads outside the state capital.
It is encouraging to know that the spate of development seen by most in the state capital is similar to what's obtainable in our other cities.
While the major highways that are newly constructed and/or reconstructed in other major cities within Oyo state have opened new economic windows therein, the rural roads in their own might have seriously boosted agricultural productivity by creating ease of access.
Most of these rural roads were constructed to lead to expansive farmlands, remove the bottleneck of poor accessibility and then make agriculture productive. It is also noteworthy to know that most of these rural infrastructures were constructed in direct cooperation with the LGAs, deploying direct labour (in other words, contracted to locals) and thus, keeping the economic impact within each zone.
A typical example is the construction (and maintenance) of the impressive stretch of the SEKONI-OKELERIN road in Ogbomoso land, linking up with the Surulere and Oko axis of the town, where Oyo state's expansive and one-of-it's-kind Cashew bed is located.
The ongoing SAKI-IBARIBA road construction/expansion is also poised, as an example, to further open Saki's industrial (ikoko-irin) and agricultural/economic (shea butter) potentials to the world. Same goes for Iseyin and Oyo towns.
The impact of the infrastructural drive of the Ajimobi-led Oyo state government on the socioeconomic development of our towns and cities is nothing short of impressive.
#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseInfrastructure

The Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has uncovered a plot by some individuals belonging to opposition parties in the state to release an X- rated doctored video. The fake video currently being edited in a studio in a discreet location in Ibadan contains images of nude ladies dancing for the Governor of Oyo state. This is in the characteristic malicious manner of attacking the integrity of top political figures in the state through outright falsehood. It would be recalled that a video of a lady spraying dollars at a party in Holland was recently recycled on the internet purportedly as Governor Ajimobi's daughter.
The Oyo State APC wishes to use this medium to alert security agencies, National Film and Video Censors Board, National Communications Commission and other relevant bodies with a call to action against the perpetrators.
In addition, the general public is advised to beware of such video materials, desist from uploading, sharing or broadcasting such illicit content.
The Oyo State APC urges the people to avoid being misled and misinformed by these unscrupulous elements, who are in the habit of spreading falsehood and fabricated reports to the unsuspecting general public.
The party is committed to unmasking those that are always in the habit of spreading falsehood in the name of politics. Signed Dr Abdul Azeez Olatunde, Director of Media, Research & Strategy

In order to douse the rumours of friction between them and project elderstatesmanship, especially considering the Olubadan chieftaincy review, Governor Abiola Ajimobi had stated on a special live interview on because TV, that he had no frictional relationship with Chief Rasheed Ladoja, such that he even facilitated prompt allocation of a free land to the ex-Governor recently.
• Chief Rasheed Ladoja came out a day later to deny that he received such favour from the Ajimobi government.
• The Oyo state government have since come out with evidence that the act of favour indeed happened and that Chief Ladoja indeed sent an appreciation letter.

The Oyo State Government has disclosed that the move to review the 1959 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration predates the emergence of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, saying that the elevation of the High Chiefs to Obas with higher responsibilities will complement development at the grassroots level especially within the respective local government areas over which they superintend.
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The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Bimbo Kolade stated this in Ibadan on Thursday during the ongoing Ministerial briefing by Oyo state Government held at the Film Theatre of the State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
Kolade, who was accompanied by his counterpart from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, while presenting the report of the activities of his Ministry, noted that the authority of the Olubadan of Ibadan, his roles and accruable privileges as well as his office as the supreme head of Olubadan-in-Council are not in contention or doubt, explaining that the gazetted White Paper clearly protected the stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
The Commissioner said that the new Obas will bring developments to their local councils, noting that their roles in communal development cannot be underestimated.
He said that the new 21 Obas cannot have the appellation of “OLU” and “LAND” to their titles, saying that these appellations have been reserved for the Olubadan of Ibadan, which is the highest and most revered Monarch in Ibadanland.
Kolade said traditional rites were done before the installation of the 21 Obas which was held last Sunday, saying that nobody could wear crown without necessary rites.
According to him, “this media briefing is to brief the press about the activities of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. We are not here to discuss the Chieftaincy review. We respect the stools of our traditional rulers in the state and we accord them due respect and regard. Olubadan of Ibadanland is our father and we hold him in high esteem.
However, we want to advice the media aide (who is a former Chief Press Secretary to ex Governor Ladoja) to His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland not to desecrate the stool with his pedestrian, mundane and confrontational utterances disguised as the voice of His Imperial Majesty.
We revere Kabiyesi and appeal that he should caution his media aide. The idea that Olubadan’s rights and privileges would be trampled upon does not arise. He will always be the head, the supreme Oba in Ibadanland and will be respected as such.
“We want to put it on record that the Oluwo of Ibadan performed the traditional rites for the recently-installed 21 Obas.
People should get the facts right before propagating falsehood.
Nobody can wear the crown without performing the necessary rites. The popular Labosinde House that does the crowning rites can only do that of Olubadan.
So all the 21 Obas will have to wait till they become Olubadan at their respective times before they undergo the rites of Labosinde,” Kolade added.
In his contribution, Mr. Toye Arulogun said that the government will not relent in explaining its stand to the people for proper understanding, reiterating that the move has no political undertone as being insinuated in some quarters and the government is not trying to reduce the powers and authority of the Olubadan but rather elevate it to be at par with all other first class Obas with lieutenants.
Arulogun restated that the need to review the 1959 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declarations predated the reign of Oba Adetunji, noting that the review was requested for by Ibadan indigenes as well as High Chiefs and there was adequate consultations with various stakeholders including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, sons and daughters of Ibadan land, socio — cultural groups and the authors of the 118 memoranda received by the Justice Boade’s panel within the 3 months of its public sitting.
He stated further that there was no legal impediment against the installation of the 21 Obas by the State Government, noting that the governor has acted within the ambit of the law.
Arulogun said “The Oyo State government led by Senator Abiola Ajimobi had been engaging in discussions and consultations which predate the tenure of the present Olubadan as the agitation for a review of the law was well before his ascension to the throne. The Olubadan — in — Council and well meaning sons and daughters of Ibadanland requested for the review.
“It is pertinent to also state that the Olubadan’s absence at the installation did not detract from its legitimacy.
In addition, we wish to put on record that the existing constitutional provision of 5% from the local governments’ allocation will still be used for the welfare of the Obas as there is no additional cost to the state government,” Arulogun stressed.

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has pledged unalloyed support for the recent coronation of 21 new kings of Ibadan by Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State.
This is just as the umbrella body urged indigenes of Ibadan land, the Olubadan of Ibadan land, the state governor, the Olubadan in council, mogajis, chiefs and other stakeholders to remain calm for the resolution of some grey areas identified and not turn Ibadan into a battleground.
The organisation said 90 per cent of Ibadan indigenes supported the review.
.

The President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Yemi Soladoye who made these calls while addressing journalists at Ibadan house, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, on Tuesday, said the review had become expedient to address the long journey of ascension to the throne of Olubadan, with many dying on the waiting line without becoming Olubadan.
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Furthermore, the CCII said it was convinced that the state government’s action was in the interest of Ibadan because it did not create any new ruling houses, while every bonafide Ibadan indigene still had the right to aspire to become Olubadan.
Speaking further, Soladoye argued that the development empowered the former high chiefs to carry the authority of the Olubadan, while the new kings remained on the queue to become Olubadan and the imperial power over Ibadanland still remained with the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
.

He also hinged the support of the CCII on the fact that the crowns were also granted to protect the state’s border towns and satellite towns like Ijaiye Orile, Erunmu, Lalupon from some other ethnic groups in Yorubaland.
“For avoidance of any doubt, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) confirms the change that has just taken place in Ibadan as desired, initiated, supported, applauded and appreciated by the generality of Ibadan indigenes worldwide. The CCII approved it and I can tell you that 90 per cent of Ibadan indigenes asked for the reform and support the reform based on the issues we have been having.”
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“We are in situation where before anyone becomes Olubadan, he is already more than 90 years; we are in a situation where 40 persons will start a race, by 35 years about 25 of them have dropped dead. So, it is not the typical situation where you look at what happens elsewhere. We are looking at our own peculiar situation.”
.

“In the past 20 months we have lost 5 of the members of the Olubadan-In-Council including eminent personalities like Chief Omowale Kuye, Chief Femi Olaifa just to mention a few. Since the demise of Oba Yesufu Kobiowu in 1965, not many Ibadan residents can confirm seeing most of our Olubadans at public functions except if they visited the palace.”
.

The CCII identified some grey areas to be addressed to include whether the elevation of some Baales to an Oba amounted to the Baale being superior over the Mogajis (family warlords), and whether the gazette could be interpreted as meaning that those on the Olubadan line must be a crown wearing Oba for them to gain further promotion.
.

He said the court could also help in the interpretation of gazette, which he said, was not an end in itself.
Describing the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji as a dynamic and progressive Oba, Soladoye noted that the CCII would provide further clarity and enlightenment on the matter.
.

“The CCII is quite aware of the fact that some grey areas still exist in the reform especially as it affects the Mogajis and the Warlords Families. The CCII is deeply looking into this with deep concern and interest. The CCII hereby salute the innovation in the Olubadan institution, though caution that saner counsels should prevail and be exercised to enable the matters in court to be rested to conclusion whilst Ibadanland should not be turned into a battle ground.”
.

“CCII was involved right from when the judicial review panel was created. CCII was part of it to create reform. The court will give interpretation to that gazette. The areas that we do think is part, we will create discussion and dialogue. Gazette is not an end in itself, issues arise and they perfect them.”
.

“We wish to confirm that our Kabiyesi is a dynamic and progressive Oba who would naturally due to his age and experience of life play safe in his response to any change agenda with insufficient clarity and enlightenment. The CCII takes responsibility for this gap.”
“The promotion of any of the new Obas to the stool of Olubadan of Ibadanland automatically ends that obaship in his compound until they have another Mogaji who may be lucky to ascend the position of Olubadan-In-Council in distant future,” Soladoye said.
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On the remuneration for the new kings, CCII posited that the new kings were only dignified with their status and prestige while their salary equivalent of being a second class Oba remained.
He however pointed to some politicization of the matter owing to some persona involved and the peculiarities of the state.
Consequently, the CCII urged all stakeholders to shun vested interests and sentiments for Ibadan to achieve some of its desires like being a state and remaining peaceful.
.

“The CCII cannot pretend to be unaware of some political colouration that crept into this progressive change at the eve of implementation but suffice to say that for a city where Politics and Public Service are the two largest industries, the tension that accompanied the change is not unexpected. Our current Otun Olubadan was a member of the upper chambers (Senate), current Balogun of Ibadan was a member of the Lower chambers (Federal House of Representatives), the current Osi Olubadan was in the Senate and a former Governor while the current Aare of Ibadan was in the Senate and now the sitting Governor of Oyo State. In a city of politicians therefore, there will always be the tendency to politicize every issue.”

The Oyo State Government has disclosed that its re-branded joint patrol team, Operation Burst, will be re-launched on Friday to stem the menace of criminal activities in some areas of the state, noting that 20 vans will be distributed to the security outfit to aid their effectiveness and efficiency.

The Government also said that the reconstituted board of trustees of its security trust fund, Oyo State Security Trust Fund (OYSSTF), will be inaugurated on Friday.

The government also disclosed that its re-branded joint patrol team, Operation Burst, will be re-launched to stem the menace of criminal activities in some areas of the state, noting that 20 vans will be distributed to the security outfit to aid their effectiveness and efficiency.

The Executive Secretary of the OYSSTF, Mr. Femi Oyedipe said on Monday that the board to be inaugurated by Governor Abiola Ajimobi at the Executive Chambers is headed by the Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu.

Oyedipe said other members of the board are Dr Adesola Adeduntan, Engr. Femi Odumabo, Dr Falil Abina, Chief Kola Daisi, Mr Vickram Gursahaney and Dr Azeez Adeduntan, the state Commissioner for Health.

He said that the Operation Burst, which comprises of all the security outfits in the State, is expected to complement the efforts of the police in curbing crimes, adding that the officers of the joint patrol team have been mandated to operate in line with the best practices and in accordance with tenets of their security outfits.

The OYSSTF scribe sated that there will be restriction of vehicular movements at the venue of the re-launch of operation, Idi Arere area of the state, explaining that Mapo to Idi Arere and Bode to Idi Arere will be blocked while those coming from Popoyemoja and Kudeti should find alternative routes between the hours of 8am and 1pm.

He said “We want to passionately appeal to the people State to bear with us as there will be no road at the venue of the re-launch at Idi Arere. The governor has directed that the programme should be held at the crisis prone area, hence our decision to pick Idi Arere. Roads around the area will be blocked and we enjoin our people to make use of the alternative routes.

“The rebranded operation burst will complement the efforts of other security outfits in the state to curb crime. Our foundation for development is peace and security and we are not ready to negate our responsibilities to protect lives and properties,” Oyedipe stressed.

#DoYouKnow

▪That the current global market value (gmv) of Cashew and its value chain is extremely high and outwits even crude oil; and that while Nigeria has the best cashew nuts in the World, #Oyo State has the best in the country. This is why the biggest Cashew Nut processing factory is being set up in Oyo State at the moment.

▪ That 84% [23, 901 sq.km] of the total land area of Oyo state [28,453sq.km] is arable land.

▪ That there are 9 organised farm settlements across our heavily agrarian Oyo state, with a total of 22 dams pulling a capacity of 11,413,00m3 and 126ha irrigable land.

▪That these 22 dams provide water all year round, ensuring the possibility of dry season farming.

▪That Oyo is going digital with agriculture with the "Know Your Farmer" (KYF) initiative; where location, farmer details, commodity, and the size of farm of each farmer can be accessed at a the click of a button.

▪That there's a new land policy to ease access to farmland to new and existing farmers, with a view to expand agricultural production within the state.

▪That Oyo state has leveraged extensively on having the highest number of functional Agricultural Research Institutes (5), by securing constant transfer of knowledge to further aid our agricultural drive.

▪ That rice will soon be produced in hugely commercial quantity in Oyo state off from the MoU signed with the Dangote Group.

▪That the biggest rice processing facility in Nigeria will be here in Oyo state, as this Dangote’s 16-hectare Integrated Rice Mill will require paddy from a minimum of '20000 Hectare' cultivated land.

▪That this will be a very viable project because of the rich Rice belt in the Oke-Ogun area, as the superior soil quality therein, infers that our rice is set to be of top quality in yield and taste!

▪That this Dangote Rice Outgrowership Scheme under the Oyo State Agric Initiative will empower thousands of smallholder rice farmers and consequently bring Oyo State to the frontier of rice production in Nigeria.

▪ That there is the construction of first-class, first-of-its-kind and fully-mechanized 10,000 metric ton agricultural storage silos in the senatorial districts of Oyo state for the storage of our cash crops and grains. The one situated in Awe will be commissioned soon.

▪ That we launched the Oyo State Pacesetter Farm (Integrated Farming model - Shonghai model) to complement our desire to be the foodbasket of the Southwest.

▪ That 458 members of Nigeria cassava growers association were empowered with N280,000 each.

▪ That 850 farmers were empowered with N250,000 in the feedwell vegetable planting program.

▪ That there are 18 Large Farms and Agribusiness setups across the state [12 Cassava, 4 Poultry, 1 Aquaculture and 1 Livestock]

Well, now you know!

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseAgriculture

Oyo targets more than 50 percent exclusive Breastfeeding rate for children 0-6 months


The Oyo state government has expressed its commitment to achieve more than 50% exclusive Breastfeeding by nursing mothers by the end of year 2017, saying that series of sensitization activities will be done to commemorate the 2017 World Breastfeeding week in the state.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adeduntan said the 50%, which is in line with the provision of the National Strategic plan on Nutrition, will be achieved base on the concerted efforts by the Oyo State Government to sensitise Nursing mothers on the importance of Breastfeeding.

According to him “a sensitization programme to enlighten Nursing Mothers on the benefits of Breastfeeding will hold at the Oni and Sons hospital on Wednesday 2nd of August, 2017, Adeoyo hospital Yemetu on Friday 4th of August 2017 while the sensitization train will move to Atiba and Oyo West on Monday 7th of August, 2017.

Dr Azeez Adeduntan stated these at the weekend in Ibadan while speaking on the forthcoming 2017 World Breastfeeding week, a global celebration to promote children from ages 0-6 months to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, regretting that number of pregnant women lost their babies ignorantly through the use of unapproved herbal concoction. Predominantly giving their children Water

He explained that the exclusive Breastfeeding in the first six months of life and the introduction of complementary diet till the first two years of life, play a vital role in the development of a child adding “Breast milk is a complete diet given to women by God and any baby that feeds on it will not likely get sick.

The Commissioner noted that less than 30 percent of the Mothers in the State engaged in the exclusive Breastfeeding while over 70 per cent do not practice exclusive Breast feeding for their new born babies in the first six months of life.

He however advised Mothers in the state to embrace the practice of exclusive breastfeeding, saying that this will serve as a defense for babies against any diseases and such child will be mentally sound and grow well.

--

'Toye Arulogun
Hon Commissioner,
Min.of Info., Culture & Tourism,
Oyo State Government

Do you know, that: (i) Breastfeeding is the best way to provide infants with the nutrients they need. (ii) WHO recommends exclusive breastfeeding starting within one hour after birth until a baby is six months old.
(iii) 823,000 child and 20,000 maternal deaths could be averted each year through universal breastfeeding
(iv) Delayed breastfeeding, even only 24 hours after birth, increases the child’s risk of dying within the first 28 days of life by 80 percent, according to the WHO.
(v) Research has found a clear connection between breastfeeding and higher IQ scores and educational achievement
(vi) Breastfeeding produces long-term health benefits for both the mother and the child.

Well, the Oyo state government is devoting 3 days of the 2017 World Breastfeeding week to sensitize and resensitize our mothers and intending mothers on the importance of raising a set of healthy, smart, and protected young citizens, with the facts like these stated above.

Date(s): Oni and Sons hospital - Wednesday 2nd of August, 2017;
Adeoyo hospital, Yemetu - Friday 4th of August 2017;
Atiba and Oyo West - Monday 7th of August, 2017.
Kindly share.

The Hack Oyo team in collaboration with The Office Of The Special Adviser ICT, held a Hackathon on Thursday 27th and Friday 28th of July 2017, to develop disruptive innovations that can effect lasting socioeconomic interventions in Oyo state.

Presentations on key arrears were made by a handful of budding hackapreneurs to a panel of judges comprised of representatives from both the public and private sector, and the academia.

The first day of the event witnessed a quite engaging opening remark by the Hon. Commissioner for Finance in the state, Mr Bimbo Adekanmbi. His savvy about technology was very obvious as he spoke, to the surprise of the hackers present. Mr. Adekanmbi gave an insight into how their creativity could effect smarter Oyocentric solutions, and he challenged them to create such disruptions, while also looking beyond what the private and public sector can offer. He then assured them that good ideas would surely get scaled and funded, adding that he would leverage on his position to ensure that financing wouldn't be an issue.

The second day built on the tempo as all hands were on deck as the hackers held sway to pitch their solutions. Mentors across tech sectors in the country came in to provide some valuable insight to further sharpen their approach to solutions. Among them is the Co-founder of music.com.ng, Mr Damola Taiwo, also in the room was CEO of the first Agro-Allied infotech company in Oyo state, Mr. Okediji Ayo, and also Professor R.A Raji, Dean Faculty of Technology, University of Ibadan and a host of others.

Chief among the mentors was the Special Adviser to the Governor on ICT, Mr Niyi Ajao, whose presense charged up the room, especially as he talked practical examples on how technology has been infused into Oyo happenings from a government perspective.

Mr. Ajao spoke extensively on technical issues bothering on delivering scalable solutions taking into consideration Nigeria's internet penetration rates and the growing adoption of technologies such as USSD. He challenged participants to consider nations like Ireland that have successfully utilized technology to transform its economy and create knowledge jobs and opportunities. He further reiterated the need for Oyo state techies to leverage on the state governments 'Digital Economy' drive to reposition the economy of the state. The SA led discussions on the importance of the Technology Incubation Center, Technology Towers, E-governance initiative and the ongoing rollout of the state's safe city initiative with Huawei and the endless IOT opportunities for the developer community.

Solutions pitched include an iPoultry portal which intends to provide web extension services to livestock business in Oyo state. Another solution leveraged waste management and proposed conversion into thermal sources of energy using digesters. Oyo Villa is a web based real estate and propriety management solution while e-GRight is an advocacy app addressing issues of girl child abuses and access to education.

To wrap up the quite eventful 2-day meet, the panel adjudged that all the ideas should be allowed incubation for at least 2 months, after which the participants will to be re-invited for a product demo.

Teachers in Oyo State whose students record over 50 percent credit pass in Senior School Certificate Examinations are to benefit from a financial reward pool of N22 million.


Special Adviser to Governor Abiola Ajimobi on Education, Science and Technology, Dr Bisi Akin-Alabi, disclosed this during a capacity training for teachers and principals on implementing the Oyo Model Education Systems Intervention (OYOMESI) templates in the state’s schools.

According to Akin-Alabi, the reward package was to spur teachers’ capacity to deliver the curriculum in outstanding form and push up the state’s ranking from the 26th position recorded in the 2016 West African Secondary School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

“As part of the third strand of OYOMESI which is improving teachers’ competencies and providing incentives, every teacher taking WAEC class whose pupils have 50 percent credit pass rate is eligible to get from the reward package of N22 million made available by the state government,” Akin-Alabi said.

Also aimed at ending deterioration in the state’s education sector, she listed quality assurance measures to be checked as students’ behaviour management, class control, lesson planning and preparation and effectiveness in day to day running of schools.

She also noted the huge stake of principals and the Schools Governing Boards in improving teaching and learning in schools.

This is just as she chided as unprofessional teachers who boycott classes and acts of brigandage exhibited by some students of the state to advance their demands.

Furthermore, Akin-Alabi spoke of ensuring school safety by involving parents, students and teachers in curbing sexual harassment, bullying and vandalism in schools.

In line with a mandate by Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, a one-stop investment centre is to be established in the state in two months.


Executive Secretary, Bureau of Investment Promotion, Mr Yinka Fatoki who disclosed this, said the centre is to be a centralized point of call for investors to access information on the state’s potentials and process necessary documentation.

Fatoki, who spoke while addressing stakeholders to make up the centre, added that the centre will be a hub for information on investment opportunities, land allocation, especially for starting businesses in the state.

According to Fatoki, the centre is to be established within state Secretariat, Ibadan, has the overall intent to ease doing business in the state.

Stakeholders at the meeting who expressed interest to partner on the functionality of the centre included representatives of the Manufacturing Association of Nigeria (MAN), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Oyo State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (OYCCIMA), Ibadan Chamber of Commerce and Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).

In his remarks, Vice President, MAN, Mr Vikram Deepak urged Oyo state to take a cue from the centre established by the Nigeria Investment Promotion Council.

Also, Chairman, OYCCIMA, Mr Olaitan Alabi prayed that bureaucracy be checked to ensure applicants get their approval with minimal obstacles.

He also called for institutionalization of relevant infrastructure at the centre to boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

Furthermore, Mr S. N. Anyaoha of SON, averred that the centre’s operation be seamless to reduce manhours spent in registering businesses.

He added that such centre would engender the sustainability of existing industries and encourage the setting up of new ones.

The Oyo State Government has warned property owners in the State on deviating from originally approved building plans without seeking physical planning approvals, disclosing that it has requested for State Planning approvals from University College Hospital, Kola Daisi University and University of Ibadan, Ibadan on some of their structures.

The government listed Ajayi Crowder University, Adebayo Akande Hall, EcoBank PLc Branch at Ajayi Crowther University among other properties that are expected to provide their physical development plans, saying that disruptions of approved plans by developers, contravene the extant planning laws of the state and appropriate sanctions would be applied.

The State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun stated in Ibadan on Wednesday that the government’s action is based on the State Government Development Control power under the 1999 Federal Constitution and Land Act as amended and affirmed by the Supreme Court verdict of June 13th of 2003 which states that Each State Government is solely responsible for Urban and Regional Planning or the REGULATIONS of Physical Development of lands within its administrative boundary.

Arulogun explained that the government has also directed the developers of an office Complex at Ring Road Ibadan, Cobble Stone Properties Estates Ltd and an event centre at 41, Awolowo Avenue, Old Bodija, Ibadan, Molola Company Limited to remove the offensive parts of the structures or a penal fee each of N250,000,000.00 (Two hundred and Fifty Million Naira) Only for deviating from the building plans approved for the organisations.

The Government spokesman said that the government frowns at the attitude of property owners and developers turning their residential buildings to commercial ones without adequate recourse to the extant building laws and additional approvals from the appropriate government office.

He said that the government will not tolerate the contravention of building laws, noting that it is imperative for the people of the state to be compliant with the necessary planning laws and building instructions so as to avert any danger or indiscriminate development.

The commissioner, quoting from a letter sent to the Managing Director of Molola Company on July 20, 2017 and signed by TPl P.O. Adesope on behalf of the General Manager of the Oyo State Housing Corporation, said “it will be recalled that you have deviated from the building plan approved for you on the 14th September, 2015 by inadequate set-back at the rear end (annexure I).

“Also, construction of 8 units of toilets within the space approved for parking lots in the ground floor of the building leading to inadequate parking space and a sketch showing the construction and defaults identified is hereby attached (see annexure II).”

Arulogun stated that the company has been strongly advised to remove the offensive part of the structure or pay a penal fee within 2 weeks from the date of the July 20th letter, explaining that the well-being and safety of the people of the state is important to government as well as controlled development in line with the recently received Ibadan masterplan.

The N50bn endowment fund to be held on Thursday, August the 3rd, 2017, are aimed at achieving following:
The upgrade of 679 health facilities across Oyo state.
The establishment of a cardiovascular center which will provide up-to-date routine and emergency care in a bid to reduce sudden deaths arising majorly from cardiovascular causes.
Completion of the construction of five (5) new secondary level facilities in five (5) LGAs
Upgrade of existing secondary health facilities in the 33 LGAs and the primary care facilities in the 351 wards of the State.
The engagement of more qualified medical personnel for the afore-mentioned health facilities.
Used for infrastructural upgrade of 57 hospitals and 622 Primary Health Care centres
The revamped and free medical services so far have served over one million citizens over the past 6 years; this endowment fund is aimed at tripling that figure.
# AsiwajuNiWa
# AjumoseHealth

The N50bn endowment fund to be held on Thursday, August the 3rd, 2017, are aimed at achieving following:
The upgrade of 679 health facilities across Oyo state.
The establishment of a cardiovascular center which will provide up-to-date routine and emergency care in a bid to reduce sudden deaths arising majorly from cardiovascular causes.
Completion of the construction of five (5) new secondary level facilities in five (5) LGAs
Upgrade of existing secondary health facilities in the 33 LGAs and the primary care facilities in the 351 wards of the State.
The engagement of more qualified medical personnel for the afore-mentioned health facilities.
Used for infrastructural upgrade of 57 hospitals and 622 Primary Health Care centres
The revamped and free medical services so far have served over one million citizens over the past 6 years; this endowment fund is aimed at tripling that figure.
# AsiwajuNiWa
# AjumoseHealth

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, on Monday paid a condolence visit to the family of late broadcaster and elder statesman, Alagba Adebayo Faleti, describing him as a repository of Yoruba culture and rich library of Yoruba language.

The government stated that the late Yoruba rare executant was a role model, and ace broadcaster whose giant strides in Broadcasting have inspired many people in the society, promising that the government would support and ensure a befitting burial for the late actor.

The Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, who led the government delegation comprising of the management team of the Ministry , said that the State government was not mourning the late sage but celebrating his life and legacy as a cultural icon, stating that his works would continue to live after him.

He said “Alagba Faleti was a repository of the Yoruba culture, a rich library of the Yoruba language, an ace broadcaster, a fine actor and above all, a perfect gentleman. His exit is a glorious one after a very much impactful and fulfilled life. We are therefore here on behalf of the Governor, Government and people of Oyo State to celebrate a grandmaster of the arts and culture.”

In his response, Elder Adegoke Faleti, the immediate younger brother to the late poet, thanked the State Government for its sympathy over the demise of their patriarch.

Nigerians you can never be satisfied.. You can go and luck it back

Oyo State Government has said that it will hold its N50bn endowment on Thursday, August 3, 2017, assuring that the fund will be used for infrastructural upgrade of 679 health facilities in the state.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Azeez Adeduntan, who disclosed this on Thursday during a Press Conference held at the Conference Theatre of the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Ibadan, stated that the fund will be utilized for the establishment of a cardiovascular center which will provide up-to-date routine and emergency care in a bid to reduce sudden deaths arising majorly from cardiovascular causes.

Dr Adeduntan, in company of his counterpart from Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun and the Consultant on the N50bn Endowment Fund, Dr Bola Olaosebikan, noted that the fund will also be used for the upgrade of existing secondary health facilities in the 33 LGAs and the primary care facilities in the 351 wards of the State as well as engagement of qualified medical personnel for the afore-mentioned health facilities.

According to him, “the State has already commenced the construction of five (5) secondary level facilities in five (5) LGAs previous without such facilities. Presently, construction of these facilities is at various levels, but the Fund will adequately allow for full completion. Also, it will ensure that there is availability of up-to-date equipment for use in these hospitals.”

The commissioner further explained that the endowment fund will be used for infrastructural upgrade of 57 hospitals and 622 Primary Health Care centres, assuring that the fund will be administered with utmost transparency and accountability.

Dr Adeduntan expatiated that the fund will be managed in a public purse separate from Government account by a Board of Trustees comprising notable Nigerians led by renowned Professor of Medicine, Chief Oladipo Akinkugbe, stressing that the first phase of the endowment activities will span the next two (2) years with the possibility of extension.

Dr. Adeduntan explained “since all other vital sectors of the economy in the State are also competing for attention at the same time with the health sector, the government had no other alternative than to call on individuals, corporate organizations and well-meaning indigenes of the State to donate generously towards N50billion health endowment fund. We need the support of well meaning Nigerians to take our health sector to the next level.”

Speaking at the Press Conference, the State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun noted that the Senator Abiola Ajimobi administration met health care services in a bad state, saying however that the sector has been revamped and free medical services provided to over one million citizens.

He reiterated that the present administration has placed health care delivery on the front burner, noting that there is need for concerted efforts to ensure the sector is not moribund and static.

In his own address, the Consultant of the project, Dr. Bola Olaosebikan, who noted that the Endowment fund is the first of its kind in Nigeria, commended the State Government for supporting the lofty idea and assured that many organizations from within and in the Diaspora are ready to contribute to the fund.

He therefore called on well-meaning Nigerians to give Oyo State government huge support by donating generously towards the N50billion health endowment fund.

The best form of patriotism anyone can express is to support the politics of development, and not of pedestrian or personal interests.
When the Ajimobi government recognized the need to reverse the rot and retrogression in our educational sector by moving to cancel the automatic promotion in # Oyo state schools for example, some politicians and people waxed lyrical in ignorance and tried to incite the people and the students against that policy.
But, today, just a little over a year, that policy to ensure students are promoted based on merit and optimum understanding, together with other policies like OYOMESI and the Schools' Governing Board, is yielding fruit, the students themselves are better and thankul for it, and our state is gradually climbing back to a pride of place as the Pacesetter.
In just a year, we moved up 8 places from 33rd to 26th in the # WAEC rankings and almost top in
# NECO? Hope we all understand how huge that is!! POLITICS OF DEVELOPMENT people!

The best form of patriotism anyone can express is to support the politics of development, and not of pedestrian or personal interests.
When the Ajimobi government recognized the need to reverse the rot and retrogression in our educational sector by moving to cancel the automatic promotion in # Oyo state schools for example, some politicians and people waxed lyrical in ignorance and tried to incite the people and the students against that policy.
But, today, just a little over a year, that policy to ensure students are promoted based on merit and optimum understanding, together with other policies like OYOMESI and the Schools' Governing Board, is yielding fruit, the students themselves are better and thankul for it, and our state is gradually climbing back to a pride of place as the Pacesetter.
In just a year, we moved up 8 places from 33rd to 26th in the # WAEC rankings and almost top in
# NECO? Hope we all understand how huge that is!! POLITICS OF DEVELOPMENT people!

The Oyo State Government has said that it will commence enumeration of lands and buildings in the State from July 24, 2017, saying that the exercise is to ensure an increase in socio-economic benefits for the people of the state.
This was stated by the State Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Survey, Mr. Ajiboye Omodewu, while featuring on a live Breakfast TV Show titled AM 120 on Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (because).
Mr. Omodewu disclosed that the exercise will be carried out by members of the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers, Oyo State Branch, pointing out that the enumerators are expected to inspect and carry-out survey exercise of the owners/occupants of the properties without collecting money from any individual.
The commissioner said, “Oyo State Government is embarking on the enumeration of lands and buildings in the state with a view to building a data bank of the state’s landed property for the ultimate purpose of planning.
This programme is in tandem with the just received Master plan for Ibadan City. The enumeration will start on Monday July 25, 2017 and the government uses this medium to appeal to the general public to cooperate with the enumerators. No fee is to be paid to the enumerators.
“The exercise is for data-gathering and building up of data bank of Oyo State lands and building with the ultimate purpose of planning and will consequently lead to the rise of more socio-economic benefits for the people of the state such as provision of portable water, drainages, good roads, streets lights, schools, peace and security.
We have engaged the services of members of the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers to carry out the enumeration exercise and they will be issued letters of introduction as a proof of identification,” he said.
Omodewu appealed to the residents of the state to cooperate with the enumerators and allow them to survey, inspect and obtain necessary information useful for the exercise, noting that enumerators are expected to carry out their assignment without causing hardship for anyone.

http://tribuneonlineng.com/oyo-govt-commence-land-building-enumeration-monday/

The final draft of a 20-year Ibadan city master plan aimed at ending the regime of flooding as well as charting a new direction for the city has been presented to the Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi.

The detailed master plan is expected to be submitted by September, while the Ibadan drainage and solid waste master plans are expected to be developed as a trio of master plans aimed at enhancing infrastructural development and future expansion of Ibadan.

The governor received the draft document from the representatives of Design and Architecture Bureau Consulting Engineers (dar), led by the Project Manager, Mr Yann Leclerq, at the Governor’s Office, Ibadan.

The Ibadan City master plan, which covers the original 11 Local Government Areas of Ibadanland, examined the state’s natural environment, history of flooding, transport, infrastructure, housing, population among others.

In his presentation to members of the state executive council, Leclerq stated that the draft master plan reflected the immediate and future needs of citizens of the city, whom he said were among the stakeholders that were engaged during the process.

According to him, the development of a master plan was inspired by the August 2011 flooding in Ibadan and those before then, which, he said, were triggered by several natural and human factors.
Particularly, he listed deforestation, development on flood plain, clogging of water surface, informal settlements, dumping in water channels among several human factors responsible for flooding in the city.

He said, “This master plan will provide sound planning frameworks and foundations to attract investment for existing and new business growth. It will prevent flooding episodes for existing and future development areas.

“We are also confident that it will improve and expand the city’s transport network. It will aid plans for and accommodate the future population growth. It will also enhance the quality of life for existing and future residents.

“Part of the objectives is to use this plan to establish the basis for the provision of adequate infrastructure capable of meeting the need of the population.”

According to him, a detailed urban plan, which he said was the next phase of the project, would include the core areas, flood prone areas and the circular road under construction.

The project manager added that Friday’s presentation was aimed at aggregating and incorporating the comments of state executive council and critical stakeholders, leading to the presentation of a detailed plan in September.

The draft master plan focuses on land use distribution, heritage and tourism, education and healthcare facilities, fire stations and security network, transport network, prevention of flooding and sustainable drainage systems, as well as pedestrian and bicycle networks.

In his remarks, the governor said that lack of a master plan contributed to the vulnerability of the city leading to natural disasters, such as the flooding witnessed on August 26, 2011.

Instead of emphasizing only mass transit system of transportation as contained in the draft document, Ajimobi tasked the consultants to incorporate intra and inter-city rail system into the final document to take advantage of the existing Lagos-Ibadan rail line.

Ajimobi added. "I will also want you to incorporate how the state can cope with the existing structures and settlements. It will give us legitimacy to remove illegal structures on flood plains. I know the implementation may pose challenges, but let us see.

“In making recommendations on street trading, emphasis should be on enforcement. But, at the same time, you have to take into consideration our culture and peculiarities. For instance, can we have trading axis, neighbourhood markets and the rest.

“You have listened to the observations and contributions of the members of the executive council. Please, work on these so that we may have a robust master plan that will ensure coordinated physical growth, improved socio-economic development and enhanced living standards of residents.

"More importantly, this will make the city resilient to stress and responsive to natural disasters, especially flooding in the future."

…AS CHINA COMMITS $5bn TO STATE’S FREE TRADE ZONE

The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) has partnered the Oyo State Government to develop an industrial policy and strategic document poised to give the state’s industrialization initiatives a major boost.

The document was presented to the Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, by UNIDO Representative to ECOWAS and Regional Director, Nigeria Regional Office Hub, Mr. Jean Bankole, at the Governor’s Office, Ibadan.

At the event, the governor disclosed that China was in the process of injecting $5bn (N1.8tr) into the development of the newly established Polaris-Pacesetter Free Trade Zone, located along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, at the first instance.

In an address, Bakole said that Oyo was the first state to benefit from the strategic partnership, stressing that UNIDO was also working with the Federal Government on similar programme.

According to him, the ultimate objective of the industrial policy was to establish an integrated agro industrial park in Oyo and to support small and medium scale enterprises in the state.

He said that the organization realized that its intervention aimed at revitalizing industrial growth in the country might not yield the expected result if it failed to replicate what it started at the federal level at the state levels.

According to him, UNIDO decided to begin with Oyo State because of the commitment of the state government to industrial development judging by the establishment of a free trade zone and industrial park.

Bakole said, “Our main job is to support economic growth and transformation in Africa. We are here to see how we can build a roadmap to develop various sectors. Oyo State is the first to benefit from the partnership because it already has an industrial policy in place.

``UNIDO is now developing a new country programme. The document we are presenting today was prepared in collaboration with the state government. This document raises a number of challenges, which is not peculiar to Oyo State.

“Our business is now to turn these challenges to opportunities. Few of the challenges include poor power supply, dominance of informal sector, low level technology, lack of interagency synergy.”

In his remarks, the governor said that the state had comparative advantage for massive industrial development, judging by its vast arable land mass and population, concentration of research institutes, as well as its peaceful and secure environment.

Ajimobi disclosed that close to150 investors from Asian countries, especially China, had signified their preparedness to invest in the state’s FTZ, with assurances that seven of the companies would begin business by the end of the year.

Ajimobi said, “We are proud and happy to have been recognized as worthy of being the first state to benefit from this industrial development policy in Nigeria. Without sounding immodest, this is in acknowledgment of our commitment to industrialization.

“Oyo State is ranked 5th in ease of doing business in Nigeria because of the enabling environment. We have made peace and security the cornerstone of our pyramid of development. Similarly, we have provided social and physical infrastructure

“These are the sine qua non of industrial development. We are determined to ensure rapid industrialization. We want to be the preferred destination for investors. We are happy to announce that China alone is investing $5bn dollars in our free trade zone.

“We are now being seen as the centre for the country’s agric revolution, whereby many industries will be sited. There is no better time to have this industrial policy than now.”

The Commissioner for Trade, Investment and Cooperatives, Princess Taibat Adeyemi-Agaba, also said that UNIDO developed new industrial policy with active collaboration of the state.

According to her, the policy had the input of internal and external stakeholders, which she said would make it the best in the Southwest region when its implementation began.

While answering questions from correspondents of Oyolawa.com about the state of governance in Oyo state, a revered elder in the Bodija axis of Ibadan, Pa Nurdin Bakare, has expressed worry over the direction which desperate politicking is taking the state. He expressed a level of appreciation for the efforts of the present government, and while he strongly opined that more could still be done, he decried the spate of desperate politicking that threatens the peace that has since been achieved in the state.

In his words, Pa Bakare warned politicians within the state to stop “polluting the polity with half-truths and true lies” which are potent enough to “kill the peace” that was recently restored to the state.

“I am from Oritamerin here in Ibadan, and as a proud elder who plies a path of progressive good, I have sworn to always stand behind the growth of my state, irrespective of party or style of politics. And, this is why I do not suscribe to heating up the polity with unfounded statements that can destroy our accord, and take us back to the dark days of violence in this state.

“This present government is trying, you should know there is so much more that can be done, but, what now worries me is something any true elder should see and correct. Back in our own days, politicians went after facts while trying to outwit each other in the process of playing the game, but nowadays, politicians are too desperate to either snatch or hold on to power, without weighing effects of such moves. They are basically playing politics with the lives of people”, Bakare opined.

While prodded by our reporter for specifics that formed his worries, Pa Bakare highlighted recent talking points within the state, and decried how politicians, especially the opposition, have handled some of these issues without facts, reiterating how insensitive and inciting such politically-motivated remarks can be.

He said, “For example, look at that Olubadan review issue. It is sad that we are almost making ourselves a laughing stock in the comity of states, especially here in the Southwest. That matter is too clear to be misconstrued and misrepresented by the opposition. Just too clear. Do you know that this Declaration review was actually a mutual idea between the Olubadan-in-council and the state government, and that it has been attempted many times before by past governments? Yet, opposing politicians, without considering the overdue importance of expanding the functionality and structure of the Olubadan stool, went out into the streets to pollute the polity with propagandist half-truths, potent enough to incite the citizens for the very wrong reasons. It saddens my heart, and I’m really concerned”.

Bakare stated that responsible citizens do not thrive on hearsay about dealings within their state, rather, they seeks facts. However, he stressed that some people don’t really bother to know, and that instead of finding ways to rightly inform these second group of people, it was quite irresponsible that politicians plying the trade of desperation seek to always exploit such ignorance for personal political gains.

“Let me give you another example. When I heard about the issue of the debt profile of our state on radio recently, I knew the claim of a 150 billion naira debt profile sounded somehow high and unrealistic, especially considering the rate at which new developmental projects are either being commissioned or completed across our state through PPPs, government funds and other partnerships. But, I still sought true information in order to confirm my thoughts.

Pa Bakare went further, “See my dear, firstly, getting loans is acceptable practice in governance across the world, and anyone with basic understanding of public sector finance cannot just bandy figures around about the debt profile of a state that just set up an industrial park for example, and without listing components of such debt at that. It is a fact that government does not manufacture monies, and that there are three levels of fulfilling any state’s budgetary obligation, and these are FAAC allocation, Internally Generated Revenue, grants or loans.

“You want to know what I did next? I approached the information desk at our state’s finance ministry that works with the Debt Management Office. Yes, every tax-paying citizen possesses that right to know, if ever in doubt. So, I got to know that the so-called debt is millions shy of 50 billion naira, and not the unrealistic figure claimed by an opposing politician on live radio. I even got to know that only about 10% of this amount was used on developmental projects, while a bulk of it was used to pay gratuities and monies owed in arrears by previous governments in our state. The files and EFCC cases are right there, indicting past governments of mismanagement in this regard”, Bakare added.

He went further saying, “It was clear and confirmed that this present government had executed developmental projects, managed to pay salaries and gratuities, both past and present, and ran the state’s affairs by legitimately obtaining bonds, grants and loans but not beyond her means. In fact, I got to know that the present government had managed to increase our state’s monthly IGR from the 800 million mark from 2011, to an average 1.5 billion, despite enduring harsher fiscal conditions that was national in impact. So dear, you would imagine my bemusement at that 150 billion naira claim and why someone would want to put such unfounded remark out there, without considering its polarising effect it could have on the people. This isn’t right in any way possible”.

He stressed that the present government has justified the reasons why the people gave them a second-term, judging by what he called “foundation laying for a modern Oyo state”; he therefore asked that the opposition should administer criticism in the right way that helps any government, including the incumbent, to sit tight enough to achieve even more.

Putting it succinctly, “I advise the politicians, especially the ones in opposition in Oyo state, to stop this trend, anything that poses a threat to our peace is dangerous and should be stopped. Instead of inciting the polity with remarks borne out of desperation, they must play the role of true opposition by being factual and objectively critical, not otherwise. As I said above, responsible citizens have a right to the right information and they should ask questions if ever in doubt. That’s what I did regarding the debt issue for example, and I was duly informed”, Pa Bakare surmised.

That the current global market value (gmv) of Cashew and its value chain is extremely high and outwits even crude oil; and that while Nigeria has the best cashew nuts in the World, #Oyo State has the best in the country. This is why the biggest Cashew Nut processing factory is being set up in Oyo State at the moment.
▪ That 84% [23, 901 sq.km] of the total land area of Oyo state [28,453sq.km] is arable land.
▪ That there are 9 organised farm settlements across our heavily agrarian Oyo state, with a total of 22 dams pulling a capacity of 11,413,00m3 and 126ha irrigable land.
▪That these 22 dams provide water all year round, ensuring the possibility of dry season farming.
▪That Oyo is going digital with agriculture with the "Know Your Farmer" (KYF) initiative; where location, farmer details, commodity, and the size of farm of each farmer can be accessed at a the click of a button.
▪That there's a new land policy to ease access to farmland to new and existing farmers, with a view to expand agricultural production within the state.
▪That Oyo state has leveraged extensively on having the highest number of functional Agricultural Research Institutes (5), by securing constant transfer of knowledge to further aid our agricultural drive.
▪ That rice will soon be produced in hugely commercial quantity in Oyo state off from the MoU signed with the Dangote Group.
▪That the biggest rice processing facility in Nigeria will be here in Oyo state, as this Dangote’s 16-hectare Integrated Rice Mill will require paddy from a minimum of '20000 Hectare' cultivated land.
▪That this will be a very viable project because of the rich Rice belt in the Oke-Ogun area, as the superior soil quality therein, infers that our rice is set to be of top quality in yield and taste!
▪That this Dangote Rice Outgrowership Scheme under the Oyo State Agric Initiative will empower thousands of smallholder rice farmers and consequently bring Oyo State to the frontier of rice production in Nigeria.
▪ That there is the construction of first-class, first-of-its-kind and fully-mechanized 10,000 metric ton agricultural storage silos in the senatorial districts of Oyo state for the storage of our cash crops and grains. The one situated in Awe will be commissioned soon.
▪ That we launched the Oyo State Pacesetter Farm (Integrated Farming model - Shonghai model) to complement our desire to be the foodbasket of the Southwest.
▪ That 458 members of Nigeria cassava growers association were empowered with N280,000 each.
▪ That 850 farmers were empowered with N250,000 in the feedwell vegetable planting program.
▪ That there are 18 Large Farms and Agribusiness setups across the state [12 Cassava, 4 Poultry, 1 Aquaculture and 1 Livestock]
Well, now you know!
#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseAgriculture

▪That the current global market value (gmv) of Cashew and its value chain is extremely high and outwits even crude oil; and that while Nigeria has the best cashew nuts in the World, #Oyo State has the best in the country. This is why the biggest Cashew Nut processing factory is being set up in Oyo State at the moment.

▪ That 84% [23, 901 sq.km] of the total land area of Oyo state [28,453sq.km] is arable land.

▪ That there are 9 organised farm settlements across our heavily agrarian Oyo state, with a total of 22 dams pulling a capacity of 11,413,00m3 and 126ha irrigable land.

▪That these 22 dams provide water all year round, ensuring the possibility of dry season farming.

▪That Oyo is going digital with agriculture with the "Know Your Farmer" (KYF) initiative; where location, farmer details, commodity, and the size of farm of each farmer can be accessed at a the click of a button.

▪That there's a new land policy to ease access to farmland to new and existing farmers, with a view to expand agricultural production within the state.

▪That Oyo state has leveraged extensively on having the highest number of functional Agricultural Research Institutes (5), by securing constant transfer of knowledge to further aid our agricultural drive.

▪ That rice will soon be produced in hugely commercial quantity in Oyo state off from the MoU signed with the Dangote Group.

▪That the biggest rice processing facility in Nigeria will be here in Oyo state, as this Dangote’s 16-hectare Integrated Rice Mill will require paddy from a minimum of '20000 Hectare' cultivated land.

▪That this will be a very viable project because of the rich Rice belt in the Oke-Ogun area, as the superior soil quality therein, infers that our rice is set to be of top quality in yield and taste!

▪That this Dangote Rice Outgrowership Scheme under the Oyo State Agric Initiative will empower thousands of smallholder rice farmers and consequently bring Oyo State to the frontier of rice production in Nigeria.

▪ That there is the construction of first-class, first-of-its-kind and fully-mechanized 10,000 metric ton agricultural storage silos in the senatorial districts of Oyo state for the storage of our cash crops and grains. The one situated in Awe will be commissioned soon.

▪ That we launched the Oyo State Pacesetter Farm (Integrated Farming model - Shonghai model) to complement our desire to be the foodbasket of the Southwest.

▪ That 458 members of Nigeria cassava growers association were empowered with N280,000 each.

▪ That 850 farmers were empowered with N250,000 in the feedwell vegetable planting program.

▪ That there are 18 Large Farms and Agribusiness setups across the state [12 Cassava, 4 Poultry, 1 Aquaculture and 1 Livestock]

Well, now you know!

#Koseleri
#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseAgriculture

Nigeria will be self sufficient in rice production by November, Ogbeh
...Assures on imminent price fall
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has said that the country will be self sufficient in rice production by November, which he said will force a reduction in the price of the commodity.

He frowned on what he called the people’s unbridled penchant and taste for foreign foods, most of which, he said, were not as healthy and nutritious as those produced locally.

The minister bared his mind while addressing a town hall meeting on sustainable agriculture, which was attended by farmers, youths, women and other stakeholders in agriculture, held at the Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan, on Tuesday.

The dialogue, which featured question and answer session, was hosted by the Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, and the Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Prince Oyewole Oyewumi.

The meeting, which was called to chart a new path for agriculture rebirth, climaxed a two-day working visit by the minister to agricultural facilities, including farms, dams, farm settlements and others across the state.

He lamented what he called the culture of wastages and abandonment in the country, which, he said, accounted for decaying facilities and monuments dotting the landscape.

Ogbeh said, “By November we will be self sufficient in rice production. We will no longer need to import rice. And let me tell you, our rice is safer, tastier and healthier than the foreign ones.

“Patronize our farmers, eat healthy. Eat Nigerian rice. Another cheering news is that we will soon bring down the price of rice. Nigerians should embrace local products and stop importation of useless things.
“We are a country that has penchant for importation without exporting anything. In fact, some people will even order for pizza from London for delivery by British Airways. They will tell you London pizza tastes better.
“We import champagnes, cookies, toilet papers and even toothpicks. We have this taste for foreign products. This is killing us, it is killing our economy.”
The minister, who disclosed that Oyo State topped the list of cashew producers in the country, said that a cashew processing plant would be established in the state within the next six months.
While urging the governor to prevail on land owners to surrender them for agricultural purposes, he said that the FG was prepared to join hands with the state government on its agric revolution.
He expressed regret that overdependence of the country on accruals from oil production had robbed it of the development of other sectors, especially agriculture, which he said was once the nation’s cash cow.
Ogbeh said, “For instance, I was almost in tears when I got to Ikere Gorge Dam yesterday (Monday) and saw the magnitude of waste and what Nigeria is losing from its abandonment since 1982. It is pathetic. This dam has the capacity to irrigate 12,000 hectares of farm land.
“I remember that we visited the dam in 1982 and brought the required turbines to complete the project. I almost wept when I met the turbines lying fallow at the dam without being fixed.
“This was a dam that has capacity to generate at least seven megawatts of electricity. Ikere is just one of the 22 dams in Oyo State, which is the second highest in Nigeria next to Kano that has 23 dams.
“We fought the civil war with revenue from agriculture, with at least $1m (today’s N367m) per day. The money came from cocoa, groundnut, soya beans and the rest. But today, the disappearance of oil money has exposed our unclothedness.”
In his remarks, Ajimobi commended the FG for its commitment to the survival of the country through initiatives such as the latest agriculture renaissance.
The governor recalled that many monuments located in Ibadan, which were mostly the first of their kind in Africa, such as the Liberty Stadium, Cocoa House, University of Ibadan, the Nigerian Television Authority and others were built with proceeds from agriculture.
He appealed to the people to change their mentality that are inimical to the growth of agriculture, which he said was paramount to the economic survival of the country.
Ajimobi said, “I don’t know why we are shunning agriculture. I want to put it on record here that I’m also a farmer, because the country’s law did not forbid the president, governors and other political office holders from going into farming.
“Oyo must become the food basket of the nation. No agric, no food and when there is no food, there is no life and no living, no nation. To survive and live well you must make money. The money is in agriculture.
“The FG is now providing many incentives for the people to embrace agriculture. We need to start thinking of the future today. Let us think of agriculture today for our survival. Let us all work. Let us all do agriculture.
"The highest employer of labour in an underdeveloped country like Nigeria is agriculture. We are underdeveloped because any nation that cannot feed its people is underdeveloped.”
Ajimobi restated the preparedness of the state to partner the FG to complement its agric projects aimed at enhancing food sufficiency in the country.

Keep the momentum going Ajimobi!

We need to commend Oyo state government the issue of salary is from federal government cause they have cut the allocation they are giving the state government into 2 so they have to generate money in other to pay salary