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The Ogun State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, has felicitated members of the association for their contributions to the development and growth of the Profession at 60.

The Ogun SWAN Chairman, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji in a statement also commended the sacrifice of past leaders of the association for creating a platform for sports enthusiasts to demonstrate their writing potentials.

Comrade Ogunsiji while congratulating the SWAN President, Isaiah Kemje Benjamin for piloting the canoe of the association at a time the union becomes 60, charged him to continue to toe the path of civility, transparency, and not to relent in his quest to restore peace to the association.

He noted that Ogun state being the cradle of Journalism in the country would continue to demonstrate and sustain the legacy of the founding fathers in the profession especially in sports reportage.

Comrade Ogunsiji said the association in Ogun state had organized series of sporting events for members and football tournaments for security and safety agencies as part of its contributions to the development in sports in the state.

He gave the assurance that the association would not relent in the discharge of it's statutory duties of defending and upholding the moral and professional rights of members, contribute through advice, suggestions, criticisms or other means to the development and growth of sports.

My name is Bunmi Adigun and the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ Ogun State Council, I work with the Ogun State Television.

I covered the 66th Birthday and Conferment of Chieftaincy title on the Govenor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke by Oba Adeyemi Adekeye, Abepa of Joga Orile as the Baba Oba

A colorful event which attracted so many dignatries from with the state and outside but majorly from Osun State maybe.

I was there to cover the event for my station which duly paid for, so if not for this I have no business and I won't even near Oke Ata not to talk of Joga Orile

The Governor was amiable but all the Security details were unruly, they started behaving anyhow immediately their Governor arrived, pushing and harassing every Journalists, even those who came with other special Guests from Osun State

They pushed my Cameraman and other camera men, thought that was enough until they got to where we were standing, I was harassed, embarrassed and they nearly tore my cloth. We dragged as you can see in this video taken by one of us who disguised

It was so tough as if it was a campaign gathering, a social gathering it was and one could imagine how it would have been in Osun State

I tried to get to those who harassed us, then I noticed they were putting on a different uniform from the normal police uniform we all know, bellaruslike, no name tag, they were on nosemask and holding petal like they were sent to Journalists

I was manhandled and roughened and imagined what will happen to those without tags and any means of identification at an event of such

Still not feeling fine but I need to drop this for the world to know how the so called Police who are attached to Special Nigerians behave at times

The newly elected National President of Macjob Grammar School Old Student Association ( MAGSOSA), Mr. Babajide Abiodun has promised to initiate more developmental projects in the School to complement the various existing projects of the outgoing executives.

The president made this known at the Annual General Meeting (AGM)/ Election of the new executives held at Macjob Grammar School, Onikolobo, Abeokuta.

He said with his experience as the former National Secretary of the Association in the last four year, new ideas would be initiated, adding that the Association is blessed with human and material resources that can facilitate monumental development in the school.

" The Association is bless with human and material resources and now, I will make sure that all MACJOBIANS work as one unifying force to bring back the glory of Macjob Grammar School and I also want to assure all our members in the diaspora that the constitution will be carefully look into to accommodate them in the next coming election". Babajide said.

He urged all MACJOBIANS sets to join hands with the new executives to move the school forward. Abiodun called on MACJOBIANS both home and in diaspora to be a good ambassador of the school.

Abiodun said more intervention programme would spring up which include payment of private teachers for the development of the students, incentives for the hardworking teachers to mention but a few would also continue, stressing that MAGSOSA would also witnessed a great turnaround during his administration.

While appreciating all members in particular the MAGSOSA elders and the outgoing executives for the huge turnout, Abiodun seeks for their advice and total support for the new executives members to succeed, saying that with unity, love and commitment, the Association would achieve more.

The event witnessed presentation of awards to best performing sets in presence of some old studentd in attendance, such as, Mr. Adedayo Somoye a former Permanent Secretary, Ogun State, Civil Service Commission and member of MAGSOSA, 1982 set, Prince Olaniyi Sobulo A Principal General,1982 set, Chief Rafiu Ayorinde,1957 set, Chief Funmi Alabi, 1971 set, Bar. Ogunseye,1980 set, Dr. Adewunmi Alayaki a Senior Director at the General Hospital, Ijaye, among others.

A Non-profit organization, Accurate Creative Minds Foundation has unveiled a State-of-the-art development centre for youths in Abeokuta, Ogun state capital.

Unveiling the Development Centre, the founder, Dr. Babatunde Odedele explained that the centre was dedicated to fostering intellectual growth and awareness among the youth.

Dr. Odedele stressed that, the centre would serve as a hub for various programmes aimed at empowering the youth, including training programmes, book club career counseling, professional certification, networking opportunities, and coaching services.

Other programmes according to the founder are; workshops and seminars, leadership development, skill enhancement, assessment and evaluation.

He said, “We are not just opening a center; we are inaugurating a future filled with endless possibilities for the youth.”

He added that, the foundation upholds core values of empowering the youth, transforming their ideas and dreams into reality.

He pointed out that, Accurate Creative Minds Foundation (ACMF) is committed to empowering and nurturing the creative potential of the youth, with a focus on education, skill development, and mentorship.

The General Manager, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Youth Development Centre, Miss Elizabeth Amodu noted that the youth represent an immense value potential that government institutions should nurture and invest on.

Speaking on the topic of the lecture, “The Significant Roles Of Youth Development Centres In The Economic Advancement Of The Nation”, Miss Amodu pointed out that the establishment of Youth development centres was to provide solutions to some challenges confronting the nation.

She emphasized that, the essence of youth development centre in economic advancement of a nation was to divert the youth away from social vices that may lead them to destruction, and channel them into more productive ventures and systems thereby reducing crime rate in the nation.

Ogun State Government has commenced a solar-powered street lights-up project across the state as part of measures to ensure the safety and security of the citizenry.

The move is coming on the heels of recent arrests of vandals stealing street light cables and other accessories along the Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Expressway by security agents, with one of the criminals nabbed for stealing a transformer.

Speaking with newsmen in Abeokuta, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Energy Matters, Mr. Oluwafemi Omisanjo explained that the persistent vandalism of government assets, especially the many street lights on the highways across the state, had necessitated the current administration to seek an alternative to the generator-powered streets lights.

Consequently, the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration, he said, decided to introduce a more secure and sustainable solution, adding that a pilot scheme of the solar-powered streetlight has commenced in some parts of Abeokuta, the state capital.

Omisanjo said the government will replace the street lights on Sagamu Interchange-Abeokuta Expressway with a solar-powered system.

The government, he added, is also embarking on a full-scale analysis of the planned deployment of the newly introduced solar-powered street lights to replace the current ones across the state.

Ogun State Community, Social Orientation and Safety Corps, codenamed So-Safe Corps, has arrested a suspected cult member, Kabiru Adedotun, popularly called K.B, for allegedly terrorizing Ogun communities.

The Director of Information and Public Relations of the Corps, Mr Moruf Yusuf made this known in a statement in Abeokuta.

Mr Yusuf who said a cut-to-size pistol was recovered from suspect in his room at Totoro, Abeokuta, in the Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun noted that the suspect confessed to had been involved in a number of criminal activities in the state.

He said the suspect, a member of notorious Eye Confraternity cult group had been transferred to the Nigeria Police Force, Monitoring Unit, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta for onward transfer to State Police Headquarters, Eleweran for further investigation and likely prosecution.

The National Alumni body of National Association of Science Laboratory Technology Students, NASTES, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, MAPOLY Chapter, class 1999 set till 2015 set has donated one hundred stools to the department of Science Laboratory Technology of the institution.

The Chairman of the Alumni who is also the project Chairman, Mr. Taofeek Sanyaolu handed over the items to the Rector of the institution, Dr Ayodeji Odedeji at the school.

Mr Sanyaolu explained that the project was not only symbolized their commitment to enhancing educational environment but also marked the beginning of a collaborative and impactful journey between the school and its growing alumni community.

"Despite being recently inaugurated, they are eager to actively contribute to the school's development. The stools, meticulously designed and created, reflect the dedication and creativity that our alumni bring to the table."

"Before concluding, I would like to express special gratitude and recognition to an outstanding individual whose efforts were instrumental in the successful completion of the stools project."

He extolled the exceptional quality leadership of outgoing NASTES president, Mr. Odukoya Damilare Samson, for his dedication and leadership in organizing and supervising the entire process.

Mr Sanyaolu said the commitment of Mr Samson to overseeing the completion of these stools reflects not only his sense of responsibility as the outgoing NASTES president but also his deep passion for contributing to the betterment of the school.

Receiving the items, the MAPOLY's rector, Dr Ayodeji Odedeji who was represented by the HOD of the department, Dr. Jolaoso A. A thanked the class 1999 set till 2015 set of the school for their efforts to contribute to educational development of the institution.

On the entourage of Project chairman, Mr Sanyaolu Taofeek were the Public Relations Officer, Prince Adelekan Solomon Adejare, welfare chairman, Mr.Abiodun Ogunjimi and the Secretary, Mrs.Omotunde Oloyede,the vice president Mrs Alade Rosiji olayinka, the President Omikunle olufemi

The Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olakunle Oluomo has commended the justices of the Supreme court for upholding the virtues of law, following the unanimous judgment of the Ogun State Governorship election by the apex court in Abuja.

In a statement through his media aide, AbdulGhaffar Adeleye, the Speaker recognized the diligence, undaunted thoroughness, and professionalism of the five-member bench, in interpreting the law.

According to Prince Oluomo, "Despite the fact that Our party-the APC , won convincingly in the state, the judiciary has, by this judgement reaffirmed it legally"

Rt Hon Oluomo congratulated Governor Dapo Abiodun for his unhindered discharge of duties, despite the unwarranted legal battle by the opposition.

He noted that, " Governor Dapo Abiodun's victory at the polls and the courts were ordained by the Almighty God and this manifested in the results of the three courts"

The speaker urged the Governor's challengers to inspire their supporters in the trust that the spirit of patriotism will, as usual, be elevated above partisan considerations, manifesting into support for the Government to improve the livelihood of the people.

He, assured that the state legislature which is made up of both parties, would not relent in ensuring that the present administration succeeds in his desire to uplift the livelihood of the good people of the state, through appropriate legislations.

He thanked the people of Ogun State for the mandate given to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Governor Dapo Abiodun to serve our State for a second term.

The Nigerian Conservation Foundation, NCF, through its Green Recovery Nigeria (GRN) Programme, has implemented livelihood support activities that boost the economic value of over 1000 Nigerians who live within the communities where 276,860 tree seedlings were planted in 2023.

NCF head of Communications, Mr Oladapo Soneye in a statement explained that The overall goal of the GRN Programme is to contribute and facilitate a reforestation scheme in 25% of Nigeria’s total landmass.
GRN is a 30-year Programme that will run from 2017 to 2047, while simultaneously promoting actions to curb further deforestation and forest degradation.

Some other activities include fuel-efficient cook stove training, provision of clean water, employment as eco-guards, tree nursery raising, enterprise development around non-timber forest products and many others.
The livelihood support component of the GRN Programme is to reduce total dependence of communities on the forest; to reduce deforestation caused by fuelwood extraction, encourage conservation of wildlife, and prevent hideouts of criminals in the forest reserves.
Some of the beneficiary communities in the livelihood component include Iko Esai and Becheve in Cross River; Ajingi in Kano; Guzape in Abuja; Awka Etti in Anambra among others.
The tree planting exercise happened across the six geo-political zones of the nation. Economic trees planted include avocado, mango, cashew, orange; and timber trees like Gmelina and teak etc. The trees were planted in forest reserves, National Parks, community forests, secondary schools, and tertiary institutions among others.
The livelihood support and tree planting projects were made possible through the support of the German Government through the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union, Germany (NABU), Stanbic IBTC Holdings, Access Corporation, AFR100, Pernod Ricard Nigeria, International Labour Organisation (ILO), First Bank Nigeria Ltd, British American Tobacco Nigeria Foundation, ATC Nigeria Wireless Infrastructure Ltd, and many others.
The Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) is the foremost environmental NGO dedicated to nature conservation and biodiversity resource management for over 40years. It has remained resolute in ensuring people live in harmony with nature.

Ogun State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, has felicitated the Sports Philanthropist, Solomon Enilolobo on the occasion of his 40th birthday.

SWAN in a statement signed by the Secretary of the Association, Comrade Olusegun Folarin said the contributions of the celebrant to the uplift of sports development in the state especially at the grassroots level is acknowledged.

"Your philanthropic gestures towards the development of sports through various donations remained unparalleled."

"As you celebrate the you climbed the 4th ladder on the earth, the Association wishes you the best in all your endeavours."

Comrade Folarin urged the former Aspirant for Abeokuta South State Constituency 1 in Ogun House of Assembly election, Solomon Enilolobo to sustain his philanthropic gestures for the overall development of sports in the state.

Arrangements have been concluded for the distribution of tree planting tools across the nine forest reserves in Ogun State in preparedness for year 2024 tree planting season.

The Commissioner for Forestry, Mr Taiwo Oludotun who disclosed this at Oke-Mosan, during an inspection of the tools, such as watering cans, wheelbarrows, head pans among others, noted that 2024 planting season would soon commence with about two million tree seedlings.

Mr Oludotun explained that the agency would take steps in ensuring that the survival rate of the one million trees planted in 2023 is 80/90 percent achieved.


Meanwhile, timber contractors in J1 and J4 in Ijebu-East Local Government Area of the state have been cautioned to avoid activities that hinder government from achieving its set goals in the forestry sector.

Mr Oludotun stated this at a meeting with the contractors in Abeokuta, saying such activities include, planting of cocoa in the forest reserves, illegal cutting of trees, cutting of trees into flitches and illegal allocation of lands to farmers for agriculture purposes by enclave heads.

While appreciating them for their cooperation in the outgone year, the Commissioner warned that unregistered tractors, felling machines and lorries found in the forest after 6.00pm and on weekends, would be impounded by the state government, enjoining the contractors to form task force that would monitor activities of illegal occupants in all forest reserves across the state.

Responding on behalf of her colleagues, Alhaja Oluwaranti Kazzem appreciated government for its support, assuring of sustained cooperation in the new year.

The State Executive Committee of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun State chapter frowned at the illegal NEC meeting held on January 8, 2024 at Uyo in Akwa Ibom state by some five members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the association to purportedly suspend the lawfully elected President of the Association, Isaiah Kemje Benjamin.

The Ogun state chapter declares such a kangaroo meeting in Uyo as a fruitless adventure, illegal, vindictive, senseless and baseless without conforming with Articles 11, 14 and 22 of the SWAN Statutes.

Ogun SWAN commended the National President and the NEC members for affirming and recognizing the legitimacy and credibility of the State Triennial Congress that confirmed Ogunsiji Michael-Azeez led executives at the duly elected State Executive Committee (SEC) on July 19, 2023 as supervised by the SWAN Zonal VP, all security agencies, Ogun State FA, Ogun state Ministry of Sports Development, Nigeria Referees Association, and NUJ representatives.

Ogun SWAN urges the SWAN President, Isaiah Benjamin to continue to toe the line of peace by reconciling all aggrieved members of the association.

Ogun SWAN urges all members to desist from any actions that could be perceived as mischief or that may disrupt the smooth operation of our association. Mr. Isaiah Benjamin has been duly elected as the National President of SWAN, and it is in the best interest of SWAN that we support his leadership.

Ogun SWAN, therefore, demands immediate suspension of the NEC members who participated in the failed coup attempt in Uyo INDEFINITELY to serve as a deterrent to others.

In view of the foregoing, the Ogun state chapter of SWAN wishes to affirm our unalloyed support to the SWAN National leadership headed by Mr. Isaiah Benjamin for his exceptional leadership style and efforts at reviving the lost glory of the association.

Accept our best assurances always.


Signed

Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji
SWAN Chairman, Ogun
07034960799

Segun Folarin
Ogun Secretary
08155970573

Workers in Ogun State Civil Service have been advised to focus on upholding the core mandates of their various Ministries, departments and agencies in order to effectively achieve the set goals of Prince Dapo Abiodun led government for the State in 2024.

This was made known by the Commissioner for Industry, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela at the maiden Praise & Prayer meeting with workers of the Ministry in the new year which afforded them the opportunity to thank God and prayed together in Abeokuta.

Mr Sofela who urged members of staff of the Ministry to see everyday as a new year beyond the usual January resolution, underscored the need for personal development and competence on the part of individual worker.

While calling on civil servants to cooperate with the present administration in the Gateway State, the Commissioner said government only thrives and succeeds with the active cooperation and collaboration of bureaucracy.

According to him, government programmes are executed through bureaucracy. The strategic roles civil servants play will be a reflection of the extent to which government plans are executed.

" We have our mandate as a Ministry. We have our mandate as a department. Every week, every day, ask yourself, 'what am I supposed to be doing in this department?' Measure your activities, decisions, programmes to see how well you are in alignment with the mandate of your core agenda which is the reason for our existence.

"It is a new year. It is a new beginning. Endeavour to cooperate with us. Give your best to the government of the day. Our Governor wants shared prosperity, development and growth for the entire length and breadth of the State which can be achieved through our active cooperation and collaboration," he said.

Mr Sofela who further emphasized that workers should go for regular medical check-up at least twice in a year, said no task can be achieved at work without good health.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Olu. Ola. Aikulola, appreciated Governor Abiodun for creating an enabling environment for the workforce in the State. He therefore urged staffers to put in their best for better productivity in the new year.

The Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Hon Wasiu Isiaka has described the death of Former Gateway United FC Head coach Phillip Boamah as painful and shocking.

Boamah, who was a member of the 1976 Africa Cup winners cup triumph squad died at the University Teaching Hospital Ibadan on Thursday.

Boamah scored a goal in the first leg of the final match against Tonnere Kalala of Cameroon in 1976.

He played most of his club football for the IICC Shooting Stars football club of Ibadan.

He has joined the likes of Kunle Awesu, Moses Otolorin, Best Ogedengbe , Muda Lawal, Joe Appiah, Sam Ojebode and Folorunso Gambari who have all died.

Hon Isiaka in a statement through his Information Office, Ayobami Disu said the late Boamah was an exceptional football administrator and coach whose indelible footprints would remained a reference point.

"It is painful that we lost a genius and a lover of the round leather game who had contributed to the growth of sports in the state and country at large. He will be remembered, not only for his sheer brilliance and exemplary work ethic, but also for his willingness to share his time and expertise with his colleagues and players.
It would be difficult to measure the impact he has had on many players and young coaches, both personally and professionally."

Hon Isiaka prayed God to grant the families and friends of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss of an icon in the football world

by Alh. Waheed Adeoye Lawal,President All Stars Football Club, Abeokuta


The Stormers Sports Football Club of Abeokuta earlier this year decided to pick Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne as its home ground. This decision must have been as a result of uncertainty brewing around the worth of the pitch of MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta where the Stormers Sports Football Club hails. This was the much battle that sprang up in the last year's league season. With much care and persistent caution, little attention and a fair turn around, the pitch became fine for games and most of the required league games are taking off on the field now.
There might be need for a complete turn-around of the field, i. e. more and comprehensive maintenance, adequate wetting with much supervision and persistent re-grassing of bald part of the field, removal of obstructive mole and ant hills where necessary and general roll over of the main pitch with heavy metal tyres to solidifying, regularising and compulsorily settling the many layers of the field at a balance plain that would remove undulating landscape within its perimeter.

It gladden mind that the palliative measure had gone a long way to secure the pitch for its primary role pending when the state will overhaul its entirety.

Having said that, I think it's a time for the Stormers Sports Football Club to take caution by reverting home after all, a half bread, is always better than none at all.

Agreeably, the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Abeokuta still need some touches particularly, the pitch. It should also be noted that the state government is not relenting in ensuring that the sports edifices in the state are uplifted to a high standard for the up coming 2024 National Sports Festival tagged: "2024 Gateway Games". Although, we are running out of time for the kick start of the preparation for the 2024 NSF game but, the state lads and lasses' confidence remain unshaken, Good enough, the Chairman, Local Organising Committee (LOC) and Vice Chairman Main Organising Committee (MOC) of the game - Chief Bukola Olopade (Former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Ogun State) who is also the Chairman/CEO Nilayo Sports Management Nigeria Limited (NSMNL) and Chairman/President, Stormers Sports Football Club is a competent hand as far as establishment of sports infrastructure, construction of sports edifice is concern in the state. Having administered one of the best sporting periods in the state, during the government of Otunba Gbenga Daniel. (Presently a Senator of the Federal Republic).

We have not lost any hope in him by all standards and competency.
The Egba high Chief is a known name in Nigerian Sports arena and beyond our shores. His wealth of experience shall in no small measure place Ogun State on the pedestal of great sporting status.

Culled from these narrations, I strongly advise that since Football is a rivalry game and highly competitive using Remo Stars Stadium as Stormers Sports Football Club home ground will only compound and chatter the so much high expectation of both the team and that of the supporters in a bid for this year's promotion. It is important to recall that this same position that the Gateway United Football Club took last year did not yield any favourable outcome rather, it reverted the high etos of the team by struggling for survival in the Nigeria National League at the tale of the 2022 competition.

There is need therefore, to remember that football as highly spiritual game, all the required conditions and the rules of football still influence the game. Some of which are:
1. Home ground turf
2. Home base supporters
3. Communal influence and
4. Other advantages
I strongly offer that the last home match of the team that ended awkwardly 5 - 0 was abnormal, unacceptable and, must be curtailed immediately. Am sure, if coach Shakiru Lawal is interrogated, He must have been humiliated in many ways. Both the General Manager and the Team Manager of Stormers Sports Football Club need a role to play in order to forestall another occurrence of this. This is a call for home return.
A word,

The Transnational Intergovernmental Organization, International Human Rights Commission-IHRC Switzerland, has appointed the Acting Director-General of the National Commission Against the Proliferation of Arms, Light Weapons and Pipeline Vandalism (NATCOM), Ambassador Adejare Nurudeen Adegbenro and President of the Association of Foreign Airlines and Representatives in Nigeria (AFARN), Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma as Commissioners with immediate effect.

This was contained in a press statement by the Commission’s Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, made available by its Head of Media and Strategic Communications Mr. Fidelis Onakpoma at Abuja on Thursday 7 December 2023.

The Ambassador-at-Large said the Secretary-General of the International Human Rights Commission-IHRC Prof. h.c. Rafal Marcin Wasik has long approved their appointments to serve as Commissioners with IHRC following a satisfactory background check on them which came out positive.

He emphasized that the new Commissioners will play a pivotal role in advancing the future of the organization, fostering international collaborations, and providing strategic guidance on matters of global significance. We are confident that their unique insights and expertise will greatly benefit our Organization and help us achieve our global objectives, he added.

Dr. Duru Hezekiah described the appointments as part of the fulfillment of the Secretary-General’s commitment to engendering initiatives on peace and security, democracy, human rights, development, and sustainable economic growth in Nigeria through the IHRC Europe-Africa Cooperation Agenda, adding that Ambassador Adejare Nurundeen and Dr. Kingsley Nwokoma will through their experiences contribute significantly to achieving the Agenda.

While urging the newly appointed Commissioners to be committed to the duties of their offices, he reaffirmed the readiness of the organization to offer intergovernmental platforms for communications, observation missions, and participation in promoting the culture of peace in the discharge of their duties.

“IHRC will join forces with the stakeholders and institutions to facilitate a continental approach towards peace and security, democracy, human rights, development, and sustainable economic growth in Africa, where the human rights of people will be fully protected”, he hinted.

Meanwhile, the Commissioners are to be decorated at the IHRC Diplomatic Office Abuja on a disclosable date to be made available soon.

Ogun State government has expressed optimism that the forthcoming National Sports Festival to be hosted by the state in 2024 will have multiplying effect on the economy and people's standard of living.

The Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon Wasiu Isiaka stated this when he received members of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC, at the conference room of the Ministry in Abeokuta.

Hon Isiaka noted that apart from boosting economic activities of the State, the infrastructural upgrade becomes the permanent legacy that would serve the State long after the event.

He explained that the focus of Ministry was not only to develop and raise talents, but to also nurture the budding talents to stardom and monitor them progressively.

Hon Isiaka reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry to partner with the NLC, particularly the Youth Wing in areas of vocational and entrepreneurial trainings, noting the collaboration would help reduce the incidence of cultism and other social vices among the youth.

Earlier, the NLC Chairman, Comrade Hammed Benco had explained that the major reason for creating the Youth Wing of the Nigerian Labour Congress was to develop and actively engage the youth in various vocational and entrepreneurial skills.

Ogun State Government says it will ensure that all categories of Alternate Medicine practitioners in the state undergo mass orientation, training and retraining programmes on diagnosis and usage of Alternate Medicine.

This was disclosed by the State Executive Secretary/ Registrar, state Alternate Medicine Board (OGAMB), Dr. Kafayat Lawal, while declaring open the 12th Annual Traditional Medicine Day Workshop, organised by the National Association of Nigerian Traditionally Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP) Ogun State Chapter, in collaboration with African College of Traditional Medicine.

Dr. Lawal, who spoke on the title of the workshop, ‘’Importance of Diagnosis’’ said diagnosis in health management could not be underrated.

Dr. Lawal said diagnosis is laboratory test will help in building proper records keeping of patients and documentation of herbal solutions used to treat each patient that would be transform into the State data base system to further prove to the world how effective the practices and its popularity among people

Also, the Alawowo of Awowo in Ewekoro Local Government Area, Oba Abdul-Gafar Olasunkami, commended the State government initiative on Alternate Medicine development, saying the practice was internationally recognised, calling on stakeholders to join hands with the State government to embrace development of Alternate Medicine according to the law guiding the practice.

In his lecture, the Director Moonlight Medical Diagnosis Centre Abeokuta, Dr. Sola Ajiboye, said spiritual belief could not be separated from medicine and medical treatments, stating that, ’’it’s all interwoven but identification of right treatment must properly be administered on the right patient as a qualified traditional medicine practitioners and the only way to understand this fact could be through diagnosis, traditionally or scientifically’’.

Earlier, the Vice President, NANTMP, South West-Zone, Chief Samson Soyoye, had appreciated the presence of the State Alternate Medicine Board representatives and other government functionaries for the support given to the sub-sector, calling on the Alternate Medicine practitioners in the State to complete their registration for proper certification by the Board.

Arrangements have been concluded for the second edition of a football fiesta tagged "Penalty shoot out classic" for lovers of the round leather game across Ogun state and beyond.

The 1-day competition put together by AB Solution Sports slated for the14th December, 2023 will involve eight players and one keeper and will take place at the MKO stadium, Kuto Abeokuta.

According to the organizer, the tournament, which is the second edition in the series is to be staged to save the coaches from the headache of selecting players for taking penalties during competition.

The organizer explained that the the sum of 10 thousand naira is the registration while a customized Jersey will be given to team owners while there will also be a prize money for first, second, and third placed team as well as individual awards for best goal keeper and highest goal scorer.

It encourages interested teams to contact AB Solution Sports on 08036579875 for further enquiries.

There are indications that Ogun state might not participated at the 2nd edition of National Para games tagged "Abuja 2023"

A source from the sports council told Journalists that the athletes are in the dark regarding their participation.

According to the person, they told us that the state government has not approved fund for the team's participation.

" up till now, we don't know if we are going to Abuja for the games, we were told that Governor Dapo Abiodun is yet to approve fund for the state's participation'

"while other contingents from other states are leaving for Abuja for the games, there are no plans on ground for team Ogun for the event'

The National Para games tagged "Abuja 2023" is slated for between 8th and 14th December at the MKO National Stadium, Abuja.

The Acting Director-General of the National Commission Against the Proliferation of Arms, Light Weapons, and Pipeline Vandalism (NATCOM), Otunba (Dr.) Adejare Adegbenro, has refuted claims of receiving a summons or being aware of any court appearance regarding a N2 billion judgement debt.

In a statement released on Sunday, titled "Alleged Summons of NATCOM Acting DG Over A Purported N2 Billion Judgement Debt," Otunba Adegbenro personally clarified his position.

Stating his unawareness of the purported judicial proceedings, Otunba Adegbenro, has instructed his legal representatives to thoroughly investigate the allegations and take necessary steps to protect his interests in accordance with the law.

The complete statement reads: "My attention has been drawn to a recent news publication about a purported commercial transaction with a third party pending before a court. Although I am unaware of the alleged pending judicial proceedings, as a law-abiding citizen who respects the rule of law, I have informed my legal representatives to investigate the allegation and take necessary steps to protect my interest according to the law.

"I want to assure the general public that I remain committed to my duties, and I urge the general public to only rely on verified sources for accurate information. For any further clarification or inquiries, please reach out to my official communication channels. We appreciate the understanding of the public in discerning accurate information from speculative reports."

by Femi Onasanya

Some years ago during my post graduate studies in the premier University of Ibadan, Department of Communication and Language Arts, I heard a story which remains with me till date about how to distinguish between growth and development. The class was Development Communication to be precise.

There was this very remote village in a State which the lecturer didn't mention where the people suddenly discovered that the government was planning to build a school for their children. The villagers prostested against government's move just as they insisted that all they needed was a motor park, not a school. They explained that with a motor park, their agricultural products would get to markets easily and there would be shared prosperity in the agrarian community which would afford them the resources to build school on their own and put other social infrastructure in place without government support.

Good enough, the government listened to their yearning and gave them a state-of-the-art motor park. Before long, the farmers became "big" in their vocations such that they were able to put necessary amenities such as school, pipe-borne water , among others in place.

One major undoing of Africa as a continent is that our government think for us which brings about growth. In an ideal society, government asks the people what they need, which results in development. Sometimes, our good moves and intentions may be anti-people, if the people are not consulted before taking a decision on their behalf. What is expected of a 21st century State is development which brings satisfaction to majority of the citizenry, not mere growth which are just physical changes without inner satisfaction on the part of the populace.

Few days ago, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun took a right step in a right direction as he had a breakfast meeting with Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) to deliberate on their challenges and how to better surmount it. The event was held in Abeokuta, the State capital.

It is instructive to note that Ogun State remains the industrial capital of Nigeria as Governor Abiodun even mentioned at the meeting that there are over 5,000 industries in the State.This indicates that mulnationals, giant manufacturers and all sorts are domiciled in Ogun ahead of other States of the Federation. This meeting was another creative approach of the present administration to achieve overall development, which no doubt is a signpost of a 21st century State in the right direction.

Since it was meant to be a breakfast meeting, the captains of industries were treated to a delightful tea break before the commencement of the event. Afterward, the formal programme began with the Commissioner for Industries, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Emmanuel Sofela, whose appointment resonated a beautiful intention of the Abiodun led government as he has been described as a round peg in a round hole.

Sofela, an investment banker and a Chartered Accountant, with over three decades wealth of experience in financial services,is a Fellow of some reputable professional bodies, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (FCIB), The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (FCTI) and the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (FCS).

He underscored that the operating environment of industrial organisations and prospective investors is a top priority of the present administration in Ogun State, assuring that the government will sustain its developmental policies and evolve new ones to fastrack economic growth and global competitiveness.

The Chairman, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ogun State Chapter, Chief George Onafowokan, acknowledged the position of the State as the best place for industries to thrive, imploring the government to put enablers in place for business to thrive much more.

According to him, " Ogun State is the place to have our enabling factors. It is the capital of industries and Nigeria's domestic direct investment. It is the best place for investment. We have a listening Governor whose passion is second to none. Government should work on the enablers that would help our businesses," he said.

In their separate remarks, Rakesh Shah, Sohan Baght, Hadiza Sowemimo, Olasunkanmi Owoyemi, Akbar Alisheh, shared the need of their various industrial clusters with the Governor as they commended him for the breakfast meeting which afforded them the opportunity to table their request.

The highpoint of the meeting was Governor Abiodun's response who assured that the breakfast meeting would be a quarterly affairs between the government and the organised private sector, saying that it would help to further identify the problems, profer solutions and measure performance.

Noting that the vision of the present administration must reflect the vantage position of the State, Prince Abiodun highlighted the efforts of the government on transportation master plan which gave birth to the massive road construction of over 500km across the three senatorisl districts as well as Agro Cargo Airport, in Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area, which has become the cynosure of all eyes.

He disclosed that the Ogun State Government and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) have concluded plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the construction of the Olokola Deep Seaport located in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of the State.

The State's helmsman noted that the construction of the Olokola seaport would provide another opportunity for companies in the State to move their goods and equipment in addition to the Gateway Agro-Cargo International Airport, which is almost at completion stage, and the planned Dry port to be located at Kajola, an outskirt of the State capital.

Assuring that his administration is working towards putting an end to the multiplicity of taxes in the State, Abiodun pointed out that the reforms already put in place by the Ogun State Inland Revenue Service would definitely put pay to the issue.

In his words, "On the harmonization of taxes, we have put in a lot of reforms on our Internal Revenue Service.

"Be rest assured, be patient with me, slowly and surely, we will remove all these multiplicities of taxes."

Speaking on the issuance of Certificate of Occupancy, the Governor revealed that on assumption of office, he discovered that the Bureau of Lands and Survey consisted of a group of principalities and cabal,saying that he has succeeded in laying off the corrupt ones and redeployed some others.

He pointed out that the government would henceforth engage technology to fast-tracking the signing of the C-of Os, just as he maintained that new blood had been introduced to the Bureau in line with the progressive vision of government.

It is interesting to note that the Governor revealed to the Chief Executive Officers of companies that efforts were underway to ensure 24 hours power supply as a way of further promoting manufacturing and seamless production process in the State through the initiative tagged, "Light Up Power Project."

He noted that power generation is the focus of his second term in office, pointing out that it is aimed at ensuring 24 hours uninterrupted power supply across the length and breadth of the State.

"As a promise keeping Governor, I want to assure you as a responsible and responsive administration that we will continue to collaborate with stakeholders across board. Let me inform you that power generation is the focus of our second term under the Light Up Project initiative which seeks to ensure 24 hours uninterrupted power supply in Ogun State. This would be achieved before I leave office in 2027.

-Femi Onasanya, the Press Officer in the Ogun State Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, wrote via femibimboo@gmail.com ( 08084818609).

Ogun State Government has reiterated its desire to continue to provide the needed ambiance for youth to realise their positive potential, as youth development remains a focal point in the development agenda of the State.

Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, made this known at the formal swearing-in ceremony of 2023 Batch C, Stream II, Orientation Course, for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, held at the Gateway National Stadium, Sagamu, noting that the State identified the youth population as the major driver of its economic and socio-political programmes.

Governor Abiodun who was represented by the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka stated that the State placed a higher premium on creating an enabling environment for the youth to maximise their potential, with a view to advancing their careers and simultaneously contributing to national development.

The Governor said NYSC programmes are designed to equip Corp members physically, psychologically and socially for the onerous task of national integration, pointing out that their mobilisation for service is a clarion call for them to rise up to the task of nation building.

"Our administration has continued to make massive strides in our efforts at fast tracking the development of our State and improving the welfare of our people. These include the massive development of infrastructure, as we continue road construction/commissioning in various parts of the State. This is expected to open up the State for the establishment of medium and large scale industries, which will in turn stimulate economic growth and empowerment of our people", the Governor said.

Speaking earlier, the State NYSC Coordinator, Mrs. Nasamu Olayinka noted that the policy of the NYSC was segmented into four cardinal programmes; Orientation, Primary Assignment, Community Development Service (CDS) and the winding-up and passing out, saying the three-week long orientation exercise is packaged to instill in the Corps members disciplined mind and sense of self-reliance needed to face the challenges ahead.

She charged the Corps members to take every aspect of the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme seriously, appreciating Governor Abiodun for his numerous support and prompt attention to their requests and safety of the Corps members.

The Ogun State Government has assured that small business owners to expect more economic-oriented schemes and initiatives that will take their business activities to a higher level.

This assurance was given by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Oluyemisi Dawodu, during her visit to Oba Lipede Market, Kuto and June 12 Market, Panseke, both in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Dawodu, who held meetings with the leadership of the two markets, where they mentioned their areas of needs, said that the Governor has been so concerned about the well-being and welfare of small business owners, which according to her, informed the lofty moves such as Oko'wo Dapo and the promotion of the Ogun State COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus Programme (OG-CARES), among others.

She said that apart from creatng a conducive environment for business to thrive, the government will in no small measure attend to as many as possible in the list of the needs of the various state-owned markets in order of priority, enjoining them to pay their rent promptly in order to further help the government do its obligations.

"Fortunately for them, only this morning, the Governor asked for an update on some of the issues they raised. This is an indication that His Excellency is interested in their matter and that work is going on behind the scene. They should be rest assured that things will change.

"Small businesses are very paramount to this government. There are many programmes in the background which are being planned to boost their activities. The Oko'wo Dapo and OG-Cares are good examples. Small business owners are in for a great time in Ogun State," she stated.

In their separate remarks, Iyaloja, Oba Lipede Market, Kuto, Chief Mrs. Tejumade Adenekan- Bakre and her counterpart at June 12 Market, Panseke, commended the government for its efforts so far, just as they prayed for divine wisdom for the Governor and his aides to achieve their dream for the state.

The maiden edition of SWAN Tokunbo Talabi Table Tennis tournament will serve off on Monday 27th and end on Wednesday, 29th November, 2023.

The Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun state chapter, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji made this known in Abeokuta during the draws for the competition.

Comrade Ogunsiji who said the three days tournament would be among the members of the association in the state noted that the competition would be played at the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Press Centre Hall, Oke Ilewo Abeokuta.

He explained that the tournament was part of the efforts of the present executives to enable members of the association to engage in other sports aside the game of football.

The SWAN Chairman thanked the Secretary to the State government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi for agreeing to sponsor the tournament.

He announced that there would be novelty between SSG who is known to be a great player of the game and a veteran Journalist during the grand finale of the tournament which would be graced by the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon Wasiu Isiaka and other top dignitaries.

Below are the details of the draws


PARAMOUNT FM I vs ASSOCIATES II

OGTV I vs CORRESPONDENT II

OGBC I vs CONSOLIDATED II

FEDERATED I vs CONSOLIDATED I

CORRESPONDENT I vs ASSOCIATES I

OGTV II vs FEDERATED II

PARAMOUNT FM II vs OGBC II.

A former Deputy Governor of CBN, Mr. Tunde Lemo has vowed to institute legal action an online tabloid accusing of embezzling a whopping sum of $500million.

The Publisher of Elombah Communications, Owners of News.Band Online Newspaper had on November 21, 2023 alleged Mr. Lemo of stealing $500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Dollars) from the coffer of Nigerian Government and returning same through the Special Investigator.

Lemo, while reacting to the publication through his legal counsel, Obienu Chinedu, Esq. for Zest Partners, described as false and untrue the publication

The Former Deputy Governor of Operations of the CBN demanded the retraction of the statement within the next 24hours.

According to the legal firm, "Our Client's attention has been drawn to the publication made by NEWS.BAND an online Newspaper owned by Elombah Communications on the 21st Day of November 2023 with the above referenced as caption.

"It is our Client's express instruction that he did not at any time take any $500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Dollars) from the coffer of Nigerian Government warranting any refund.

"That he did not refund $500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Dollars) or any amount to the Federal Government of Nigeria either through the Special Investigator of the Federal Government or any agent of the government or any person by whatsoever name called.

"That the information so published by your newspaper as it relates to our Client is false and untrue.

"Our Client finds the Statement defamatory and sees it as a direct attack on his personality to malign him in the eyes of well-meaning Nigerians and his friends outside Nigeria.

"Our client herein DEMANDS that you retract the said statement making the rounds as it relates to our client within the next 24hours.

"It is our hope that you will heed and accede to our demands and retract the statement through the same medium it was published within the time frame given.

"However, should wisdom fail to prevail, and you fail to so comply, we will proceed to perfect our Client's instructions."

All Stars football club Abeokuta wins 2023 veterans league

All Stars football club, Abeokuta has emerged champions of the 2023 Abeokuta All Stars Veterans League.

The team were crowned winner of the league on Saturday, 18th November, 2023 after their two nil win over Bankers All Stars football team at the training Pitch of MKO stadium, Kuto Abeokuta.

The Coach Bolarinwa Charles led team top the table with 26 points from ten games, Lantoro All Stars came second with 16 points from same number of matches while Bankers All Stars finished in third position with 13 points from ten games.

Speaking after the competition, the President of All Stars Football Club, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Alhaji Lawal Waheed, noted that the competition was organised for ex footballers to foster unity, to increase love and participation in a football game.

Alhaji Waheed who expressed satisfaction with the performance of the players on the field of play said efforts were on to get sponsors for the league to make it more attractive.

According to him, Initially we had about 15 teams that would have participated in the game, but because we put some criteria that streamlined that competition, only six teams participated based on conditions and all along, and they were well behaved.

Highpoint of the event was the presentation of medals and trophy to the winning team as well as decoration of dignitaries present at the final.

Ogun State government says a comprehensive strategy towards the development of sports in the state is underway.

The Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon Wasiu Isiaka announced this while receiving members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun state chapter at his office in Abeokuta.

Hon Isiaka who noted that the comprehensive policy or strategy would assist the ministry to coordinate all the sporting activities, announced that the resuscitation of governor's and principal's cup competitions were key in the agenda of the present administration.

He noted that the promotion of Gateway United to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, remained a priority that would be vigorous pursed with necessary support to the team.

The Commissioner for Sports Development pointed out the hosting of the National Sports Festival was in demonstration of the seriousness of the present administration to change the face of sports in the state.

Hon Isiaka promised to continue to interface with Sports Journalists to ensure towards the development of sports in the state.

Earlier, the Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun state chapter, Comrade Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji who had described the long stay of Gateway United in the second tier of Nigeria league as embarrassing appealed to the commissioner to provide the team with necessary support both on and off field to ensure the return of the team to NPFL.

Comrade Ogunsiji pledged the association's support to the ministry in the promotion of sporting activities in the state.

Also, former Chairman of the Association, Mr Biodun Alabi also underscored the need for the ministry of sports development to come up with a road map that would help the government in the development of sports in the state.