The convener of Sanni Sulaimon Foundation of Abeokuta North Local Government, Honourable Sanni Sulaimon has congratulated the Olowu, His Royal Majesty, Oba Saka Adeola Matemilola, Olowu of Owu Kingdom on his first year coronation anniversary.

Honourable Sulaimon who is also the Chief Operating Officer of Fotogallery and De Moment Transport Limited congratulated the monarch in a statement issued by his media aide.

He noted that the reign had brought enormous blessings to all the people and a new sense of direction that is propelling the Owu Communities and the entire state to greater heights.

“As we celebrate your divine reign with the rest of the Other Community in Abeokuta North, I wish you excellent health in your commitment to a peaceful and more prosperous Owu environ.


"Long may you reign, my King Oba Dr. Saka Adeola Matemilola" Hon. Sanni Sulaimon said.

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter has congratulated Hon. Wasiu Ayodele Igbalaye on his appointment as the Chairman, House Committee on Youths and Sports by the Ogun State House of Assembly.

In a statement jointly signed the Chairman of the Association, Mr Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji and the Secretary, Mr. Olusegun Folarin, said the appointment as Chairman, House Committee on Youths and Sports is well deserved considering his desires to impact on youths in the state.

The Association implores Hon. Wasiu Ayodele Igbalaye to use his office to initiate bills and motions that will bring the desired change to the state, especially to the sports sector.

It says there is the need for the chairman to pursue the implementation of the Sports Trust Bill and Sports Commission passed by the 9th Assembly and currently before the executive for the overall development of sports in the state.

The Association promises to work with the Chairman, House Committee on Youths and Sports towards achieving the set goals.

......... Gives Pass Mark For Ogun Govt On Sporting Facilities

The Local Organizing Committee, LOC, for the 2024 National Sports Festival has inspected sporting facilities across the three senatorial districts of Ogun state.

The areas inspected include Remo Stars sports facilities at Ikenne, NYSC Orientation camp at Sagamu, MKO Abiola International stadium, Abeokuta, the Golf Resort in Abeokuta, and Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta.

The LOC Chairman, Chief Bukola Olopade who led other members of the committee described tartan track floodlights, scoreboard, the swimming pool, tennis courts, as infinitesimal in facilities that needed to be put in place.

Also, The Executive Secretary, Local Organizing Committee, Dr. Kweku Tandoh expressed satisfaction with the level of facilities provided by the state government for the festival.

Dr. Tandoh who said state had really shown the level of preparedness to host a befitting festival expressed optimism that most of the facilities for the festival would be ready in less than 16 months to the festival.

The Chairman, venues and facilities committee, Dr. Emmanuel Igbinosa commended the state government for creating a friendly environment for private business to thrive.

Dr Igbinosa described the sports complex at Remo Stars in Ikenne as world-class that could host any international competition.

The festival is scheduled to hold in the Gateway state between November and December 2024

The Chief Executive Officer, and Managing Director, Fotogallery and De moment Transport Limited, Hon Sanni Sulaimon has congratulated the Super Falcons of Nigeria for their qualification to the next round of the ongoing FIFA women's World Cup co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia.

The Super Falcons confirmed their place in the knock out stage of the competition after a goalless draw with the Republic of Ireland.

Hon Sulaimon said girls had demonstrated high sense of professionalism, determination and commitment since the commencement of the competition.

He encouraged the players to remain resolute in their quest to progress in the competition.

The Nigerian side finished second with 5 points behind Australia who top the group with 6 points from 3 matches.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun state has inaugurated the Organising Committee for the 2024 National Sports Festival with a promise to surpass the achievement recorded during the previous editions.

Governor Abiodun who gave the assurance during the inauguration of the committee at the Executive Chambers of the Governor's office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, said the state was ready to put in place world class sporting infrastructure across the length and breadth of the state.

He reaffirmed his determination to use the competition to showcase the talent, culture, potential and the unique sense of hospitality of the people of the state.

Governor Abiodun who noted that the National Sports Festival would bring together the energy, creativity of youths in the country said the biennial event also serve as a platform for them to showcase their diverse talents and potentials.

Describing the festival as a testament to the commitment of his administration to empower the next generation by offering them the opportunity for growth and self development, the Governor imploded members of the committee to embrace the responsibility given to them with a deep sense of purpose.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and former Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the State, Chief Bukola Olopade who commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for bidding and winning the right to host a successful National Sports Festival, also acknowledged Governor Abiodun for being the first Governor in the country to ensure that all it's athletes at the last National Sports Festival in Delta State went home with a cash reward irrespective of winning or losing.

The Director, Ogun State Sports Council, Mrs Folakemi Iyabode-Rotimi has appealed to the state government to approve the permanent employment and contract for athletes in the state ahead of the 2024 National Sports Festival.

Mrs Iyabode-Rotimi made the call in Abeokuta during an interaction with the newly elected executive members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State chapter.

The State Sports council director who noted that the step would reduce the spate of poaching of athletes from the state also said that the establishment of the Sports commission was needed for the turn around of the sports in the state.

While advocating increased funding of the council for improved performance, Mrs Iyabode-Rotimi said the current allocation to the council was inadequate.

She noted that the task of sports development in the state required the concerted efforts of all stakeholders especially the sports journalists.

Mrs Iyabode-Rotimi who acknowledged the contributions of the state Sports Journalists towards the success of the council gave the assurance that efforts would be intensified to prioritize interest of the SWAN members in the state.

Earlier, SWAN Chairman, Mr Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji had called for more stronger and robust synergy between the sports council and the association in the state.

Twelve teams from the six geo-political zones of the country will converge on Ogun state for the National Under -18 boys football competition tagged " MKO Abiola Cup"

The Chairman, Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria, YSFON, Ogun State Chapter, Alhaji Waheed Lawal made this known in an interview with journalists in Abeokuta.

Alhaji Lawal who noted that the competition had suffered a set back due to lack of funds and sponsorship explained that arrangements had been concluded to stage the fifth edition of the tournament.

He pointed out that the competition was to honour the first Pillar of Sports in Africa, late Chief M.K.O Abiola for his contributions to the growth and development of sports in Nigeria and outside the shores of the country.

Alhaji Lawal said the competition to be played at the Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium, Ijebu Ode would take place between 20th and 26th August while the final would be held at the MKO stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.

He said there would be a friendly match between All Stars Football Club, Abeokuta and Ogun State Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, for the posthumous birthday of the late Philanthropist.

Also, a Football Psychologist, Coach Adeyemi Kehinde said National teams coaches would be on ground to select players for the various national teams.

Coach Adeyemi commended the support of Ogun state government and other key stakeholders in their efforts to ensure that the competition achieved the desire goals.

The National Association of Community Health Practitioners of Nigeria (NACHPN) has commended the present administration in Ogun State for recruiting 212 Community Health Workers into the state work force to improve healthcare service delivery across the communities in the State.


The Zonal President of the Association who also doubled as National Vice - President, Comrade. Donnish Oluwasegun gave the commendation at a - two days Orientation workshop for the newly recruited Community Health Practitioners by the Ogun State government held at their Secretariat's auditorium, Magbon , Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Comrade Oluwasegun described the employment of 212 Community Health workers as a new Dawn at preventing community health challenges and enlightening the grassroots on ways to stay save and healthy within their communities through regular interaction with the Community Health Workers rather than thronging out in panic and to overwhelm the secondary health institution for minor health issues for treatments.

Also, The State Chairman NACHPN , Comrade Sunmola Moruuf appreciated the State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun ingenuity for employing the 212 Health Community Workers as part of the administration's determination to provide an affordable all inclusive health care service across the length and breath of the State through the use of the community health worker.

He said the recruitment of be community health informed the orientation workshop to equip them for the task ahead

In a lecture entitled "Roles of Community Health Works in development of health care service across the State" a guest lecturer, Dr. Bakare Jeleel, said, they would continue to be grateful to the present administration for acknowledging the crucial role of Community Health Workers in the state


Responding on behalf of others recruited health workers , Comrade. Ayide Agnes and Ogunsanya Adedayo jointly thanked the State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun for his kind gesture and determination to reposition the standard of the State health Sector to that of global standard.

The Acting General Manager, Mr Niyi Soleye has appealed to Ogun State government to provide the state-owned football team with a-42 seater bus and other incentives to boost their morale ahead of the 2023/2024 Nigeria National League, NNL season.

Mr Soleye made the appeal when he received the newly elected executive members of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter at club's Secretariat, MKO stadium, kuto Abeokuta.

The Acting gateway united general manager who described the bus being used since 2011 as outdated attributed the inability of the team's failure to pick the ticket to the elite division of the league to logistics.

While commending Governor Dapo Abiodun for the prompt payment of salaries and allowances of players, Mr Soleye appealed to the governor to also release the outstanding allowances for technical crew for optimal performance.

He announced that arrangements had been concluded for the resumption of the players in preparation for the new season.

Mr Soleye who thanked members of the Sports Writers in Ogun State for a partner in progress called for the sustained synergy with the association as the league begins soon.

Earlier, The Ogun State Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Mr Micheal-Azeez Ogunsiji had appreciated the management of the gateway united for their support to the association.

Mr Ogunsiji assured the management of the state owned football team of the readiness of the association to give the club the adequate coverage.

Highpoint of the visit was the official presentation of Jersey to the chairman of the association.

The Ogun State Government has expressed confidence of winning the 22nd National Sports Festival to be held by the state in 2024.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Dr. Yusuf Qudus made this known on Wednesday when the newly elected executives of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ogun state chapter paid him a courtesy visit.

Dr. Yusuf who noted that the efforts were on to get the best athletes that will represent the state at the biennial event described the association as a partner that will assist the state in growth of sports in the state.

He disclosed that, the state government has sent out scouting team to bring back home the state athletes representing other states.

He maintained that, the state government has approved organizing of national and sub-national events to test the sporting facilities spread across the state and to expose the athletes in readiness for the National Sports Festival.

According to him, these national and sub-national events would help the state to discover more talents and nurture them I become international stars.

The Permanent Secretary while congratulating the new executives for their emergence at the election urged members of the association to be objective and fair in their reportage.

He reaffirmed the ministry's determination to support the association to take the association to the next level.

"The role of SWAN can not be downplayed in the coming National Sports Festival. We want to urge you to report the state government's impact on sports development objectively.

"We have encouraged National and Sub national events to test our facilities and expose our talents and get new talents ahead of the National Sports Festival.

"The sports ministry want a very cordial relationship and partnership that will help us to grow sports. We have begun the process of recalling our athletes in other states. We have sent out our scouts to look for these athletes because Ogun state is hosting the National Sports Festival to win. We have to thank His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun for this.

Earlier, the SWAN Chairman, Mr Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji thanked the state government for winning the hosting right for the 22nd National Sports Festival in 2024.

Ogunsiji noted that, the Nigeria Olympics would boost the internally generated revenue of the state during the festival.

Ogunsiji who noted that the association remained a partner in the development of sports in the state solicited the continued support of the ministry to the association.

The Local Organizing Committee, LOC, for the the 2024 National Sports Festival has congratulated the newly elected Executives of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter.

In a congratulatory message, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Chief Bukola Olopade expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated SWAN Exco in the Gateway state will work as a team to propel the association to greater heights.

Chief Olopade, a former Commissioner for Youth and Sports in the Gateway state also made it known that the LOC is counting on Ogun State SWAN, and sport writers in the country as a whole to publicize and project the multi sports event satisfactorily when it takes centre stage in 2024.

He assured that the LOC as empowered by the Ogun State government under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, will do everything humanly possible to ensure that the 2024 National Sports Festival will be top notch and glamorous on all front.

On Wednesday, Ogun SWAN elected Mr. Michael Azeez Ogunsiji as its new Chairman, he takes over from veteran sports writer Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde.

Other Executive members are Mr. Taiwo Fabajo (Vice Chairman), Mr. Segun Folarin (Secretary), Mr Bayo Adegboyega (Assistant Secretary), Mr. Michael Adesanya (Treasurer).

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, has congratulated Mr Micheal-Azeez Ogunsiji on his emergence as the newly elected Chairman of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter.

Governor Abiodun in a congratulatory message personally signed by the governor in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital charged the new leader of Sports Writers in the State to lead his members from the front with vision towards sports development.

The governor wished Mr Ogunsiji a successful tenure in office with positive impacts of profound significance, adding that Nigeria needed young people like him in different positions of leadership.

Governor Abiodun expressed the hope that Comrade Ogunsiji, would bring his versed knowledge of sports reportage to bear in the growth of the association and sports development generally in Ogun State.

The National Commission for the Coordination and Control of the Proliferation of Small Arms, Ammunition, Light Weapons, Chemical Weapons, and Pipeline Vandalism (NATCOM) has again issued a stern warning to the Nigerian public, cautioning against any transactions or official engagements with former acting Director General of the commission Dr Baba Mohammed.

The Acting General Manager of NATCOM, Otunba Adejare Adegbenro, issued this warning in Abuja in the wake of vote of no confidence passed on the former DG Dr Baba Mohammed on June 3rd, 2023 by the council of state director's commandant of Natcom.

The press release issued at the time highlighted various reasons and justifications for the decision, including emotional instability, abuse of office, lack of accountability and transparency, and non-compliance with the principles of federal character, among others.

"We feel compelled to issue this warning to the public, as we cannot be held responsible for any potential damages. There is only one legitimate NATCOM, and that is the one I am currently heading in an interim capacity" Adegbenro said.

"Our commission is unified in focus and so shall it be.This is how to take the commission to the next level; cooperation, commitment and competence. We want to assure the general public of the legitimacy of our commission and readiness to serve within the confines of our mandate" He added.

Ogun state government named former Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Bukola Olopade as the chairman of the Local Organising Committee, LOC, for the 2024 National Sports Festival to be hosted in the state.

Unveiling the 16-man local organizing committee in Abeokuta, the state capital, The Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, noted that a sports enthusiast, Mr Tilewa Adebayo, will be the co chairman for the biennial event.

Mr Talabi explained that the LOC had been mandated to set up subcommittees, made up of various stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free exercise as well as deliver a world class sports festival in the country.

He pointed out that the unveiling of the committee was to reaffirm the readiness of the state government to hold the 2024 National Sports Festival.

Other members of of the committee are the two-time Olympic medalist,
Chief Falilat Ogunkoya-Omotayo, the Secretary-general of the local organising committee for the NSF Edo 2020, Dr Emmanuel Igbinosa, a n notable sports administrator, Dr Kweku Tandoh, as well as the renowned sports psychologist and head of the Department of Sports and Exercise Medical Sciences at University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana, Professor Oluwaseun Olanrewaju Omotayo,

Over two thousand runners across the twenty local government areas of state are to participate in the 5 kilometres race tagged "Ogun Women Run"

The race is put together by Brussels Sports Management Limited.

The Organiser of the race, Mr Seyi Johnson made this known at a media parley with members of Ogun state chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, in Abeokuta.

Mr Johnson who explained that the race designed for Ogun state indigenes was to promote unity and healthy living among women of various ages regardless of status.

He noted that the race to be flagged off by the deputy governor, Mrs Noimot Salako- Oyedele will have side attractions that would add value.

Mr Johnson who hinted that apart from the medals and gifts that would be given to all participants, explained that a sum of 500 thousand, 300 thousand and 200 thousand naira would be given to first, second and third placed athletes.

Also, the Race Director, Mr. Ebidowei Oweifie who said that the race would flag off in Sapon and terminate at the MKO stadium, pointed out necessary arrangements had been made to ensure successful outings.

Mr Oweifie explained that the involvement of fun-runners in the 2023 edition was part of the efforts to sustain the culture of women's participation in the race in Ogun state.

Ogun State Government has announced its intention to partner the private sector in the execution of more energy projects, especially in the rural areas.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, Mr. Adetayo Olutimilehin made this known during a meeting with stakeholders in the energy sector in Abeokuta.

Mr Olutimilehin explained that the provision of low-cost efficient and reliable electricity for the use of the rural dwellers would enhance their socio-economic activities, contribute to employment generation, boost productivity, and discourage rural-urban migration.

He noted that investing in the energy sector was an avenue to generate revenue for both the State government and investors, and urged relevant stakeholders to ensure credibility in the execution of the proposed projects.

The Permanent Secretary noted the anomalies in the past Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with investors would be corrected, imploring all concerned Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), to work as a team at ensuring efficient service delivery.

Contributing, the representative of Ogun-INVEST, Mr. Adekunle Adegbite, said the agency would ensure that prospective investors are captured and accredited, emphasised the need for relevant MDAs to liaise with the agency before proceeding to sign any MoU with investors.

On her part, representative of the Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning, Olufunmilayo Adegunle said it was essential to ensure that investors should get government permits, land titles and other relevant documents before embarking on business, in order to generate more revenue for the State coffers.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has said that his administration will make available, about 250 semi-detached and fully detached duplex houses at the President Muhammad Buhari (PMB) Estate before the end of the year.

Governor Abiodun, who made this known during an inspection of the first phase of the 60 mixed development scheme at Kobape, Abeokuta, on Thursday, said that the project when completed would have a recreation park, shopping center, and security post among other facilities.

"I am sure that between now and the end of this year, we will have nothing less than 200 to 250 units that will be completed here with the complementary landscape and all other pieces of furniture that are required to make this place an ideal place to live," he said.

Abiodun, while disclosing that the project is among several inherited from the past administration, noted that the contractor, who according to him had taken the state government to court and was about to get a judgment against the state, has been paid off.

The Governor also stated that his administration began the installmental payoff of the outstanding amount unpaid by the immediate past administration.

"A lot of taxpayers money was spent on this project. Before we assumed office, the infrastructure contract had been awarded, basically the road network and the street lightning poles that you saw here.

"However, the contractor was never paid. By the time we assumed office, the contractor had taken us to court. We didn't even realize it because the previous administration had left the matter in court unattended to.

"So, when we assumed office, the contractor was about to be given judgment against the state. So, we had to scramble, wade into it, work out an amicable settlement with the contractor and began an installmental payoff of the amount outstanding.

"So, the Dapo Abiodun administration paid off the contractor," he said.

The Governor, while calling on prospective investors to take advantage of the discount available on the properties, said that his administration does not want the property to continue to remain idle as it had been in the last six to seven years.

"I expect them to come and start paying now because I am not involved in the direct sales. But, I am sure that our team has a plan where if you pay now while the construction is going on, you get some sort of discount.

"If you wait till it is finished, of course, you will pay a premium. So, I want to encourage the public to take advantage of the discount; you better come and pay now. We are a promise keeping administration.

"The development that we did across from the Governor's Office, the King's Court, that was a success. It was a success that it was not only sold out, we had more buyers than the units we built. So, I don't want to put a time frame on when you should pay; it is up to you to come and pay," he said.

The state helmsman also disclosed that his administration came up with a Public Private Partnership program where people were invited to express interest to partner with the state.

"We invited people to come and express interest to partner with us, and that expression of interest was finalized with a template that we allocate a parcel to you, you come and develop it, and you and the government jointly sell and share the proceeds.

"That proceed will be shared in a fashion where our partner is able to recover its invested funds and whatever margin that has been agreed with our property investment corporation and of course government on its part is able to realize that much that accrues to it from what would have been the sale of the land," he said.

The immediate past Special Adviser and General Manager of the Ogun State Property Investment Corporation (OPIC); Mr. Abiodun Fari disclosed that the state government is looking at the next nine months for the delivery of the units under construction.

He added that phase one of the project would be used to unlock the value of land in the estate.

A team from the Ondo State Development and Property Corporation ONDPC, has visited Ogun State to understudy the operational strategies and methods of the State Housing Corporation.

Speaking in Abeokuta during the visit to the management of OGSHC, the leader of the team, who is also the Head of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Mr. Seun Komolafe expressed satisfaction with the delivery of qualitative and affordable houses, as well as the effective management of estates and lands administered by the management of the Ogun State Housing Corporation

Mr. Komolafe, explained that the success stories of OGSHC years back prompted the study tour, noting that it was imperative to emulate best practices on project implementation.

He stated that mass housing delivery devoid of the hitch was possible when necessary technicalities were put in place, expressing hope that the study tour would assist his agency in carrying out the policies and programmes of Ondo State Government in the housing sector.

Mr Komolafe commended the innovative ideas of OGSHC on the provision of decent housing accommodation for the residents of the State, saying the outstanding achievements of the Corporation earned it the meritorious award as the Best Housing Corporation in the year 2023.

In a remark, the General Manager, OGSHC, Estate Surveyor and Valuer, Mr. Wale Ojo lauded the ingenuity of the team to tap into the leadership experience, affirming that OGSHC would remain a role model in the delivery of affordable housing in Nigeria.

Mr Ojo reiterated that the landmark accomplishments of the Corporation were as a result of the political will and continuous support of the State's Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in repositioning OGSHC for enhanced profitability.

Ogun State Government says it has deployed technological innovation to mitigate the effects of Climate Change in Schools across the State, to enhance a conducive academic environment.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Abosede Ogunleye, who spoke to the paper titled, "Education and Industrialisation In Ogun State: Technological Development For Mitigating Climate Change", during the "Tour of Ogun State" by the Participants of The Senior Executive Course 45, 2023 of The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, said parts of the technology deployed include renewable energy through the installation of Solar-powers in schools.

She noted that teachers were also trained to make them become active citizens and earth protection ambassadors with leadership skills for the promotion of Sustainable Development Goals, adding that the creation of eco-friendly teaching and learning was stimulated.

The Permanent Secretary stated that the State had sponsored the training of 150 students on Climate Change Development Initiative in collaboration with Nestle Nigeria Plc, revealing that due to the encouragement of skill acquisition in schools, the State Contingents during the last edition of JETS Competition won several awards for converting waste materials to valuable products, such as interlock bricks.
Mrs Ogunleye noted that tree plantation was included in Secondary School Curriculum as a topic under social studies, as part of the measures to mitigate the effects of climate change, adding that the school segment of the Annual Planting of 1million Trees by the State Ministry of Forestry was carried out by the students.
In their separate presentations, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Professor Charles Adekoya and the Director, Institute of Vocational Training and Research in Agriculture, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Professor Akiyode Olawunmi who noted that renewable energy through the plantation of Wind Farm was essential to mitigate the effects of climate change, expressed optimism that access to energy would have positive impacts on people's health and on the economy of the nation at Large.
In a remark, the Head of the Team, Prof. Oluwafunmilayo Para-Mallam assured the State government of the group's support to further achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, saying choosing Ogun State as their Course of Study had been a blessing to them.

Over two hundred golfers from eight States of the federation are expected to converge on Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital to participate at the 2023 Ladies Sign Out and In Golf Kitty.

The golf kitty will tee-off on July 8, 2023 at the Abeokuta Golf club.

According to the Abeokuta Golf Club Lady Captain, Adetunji Alaba Oluwatoyin, about 150 male golfers and 55 female golfers will participate in the competition.

Mrs Alaba said participants from Abuja, Ekiti, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, Oyo, Osun and Kwara states will arrive in Abeokuta on Friday for the practice round and cocktail, while the competition will tee-off on Saturday.

She, however, called for more participation of female golfers in the elites game.

The Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olakunle Taiwo Oluomo has expressed shock over the sudden death of the chairman, All Progressives Congress, Ogun Central Senatorial district, Chief Fohunola Abiola

Chief Abiola whose death was announced early this morning was a member of Ogun Governor's Advisory Council.

Rt Hon Oluomo noted that the death of the late elder statesman was not just a colossal loss to the entire Ogun Central Senatorial district but would leave a huge vacuum in the political space of the entire state.

"Baba Fohun Abiola would be greatly missed for his elderly approach to issues and his matured political styles " He said

According to him, " Chief Abiola's death is shocking and his many words of advice would be missed especially at a time like this when the second term administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun is just starting"

The Speaker commiserated with his family, the Governor, leaders and members of the APC in Ogun State as well as the Elders Advisory Council of the Governor.

He prayed for his soul to find peace in the bosom of his creator.

Oyo and Delta states’ men and women have emerged champions of the 2023 BetKing 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball National Championship.

The event held at the outdoor Sports Hall of Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun state attracted dignitaries from all walks of life.

Oyo state defeated Lagos state 10-1 to lift the trophy in the men's category while Delta state defeated Oyo state 3-2 to win the women's category.

Osun state came down from three points to beat Abuja 7-5 to seal third position in the men's category while Imo state pummeled Kwara state 5-1 to settle for third position in the women's category.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President of Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria, Mr Seyi Johnson said the championship was an opportunity for the players to get an opportunity to represent Nigeria at the African Para Games in Ghana next September.

Mr Johnson noted that the current board was working round the clock in ensuring Nigeria returns to its rightful position in Africa.


He said, "Ahead of the African Para Games in Ghana, the national coaches are on ground to monitor the players and sports talents. After two weeks of rest, the players will resume camp because our dream is to attend the Para Games and qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics. We have identified our weak links and want to work on them before the African Para Games.

Meanwhile, winners in both categories went home with a trophy and N500, 000; first runners-up pocketed N300,000 while second runners-up went home with N200,000.

Waheed Ogunjobi


In all the positive reforms being introduced to the Nigerian system, by the new Nigerian governnent, I urged the Bola Ahmed Tinunu- led government to spare a thought for our health sector..The health sector indeed need serious attention...

The complaint of no bed space in the 21st Centrury I think is appalling, especially when agencies of government either complain of no fuel or no operation vehicles...Through this inadequacies, especially that of infrastructure, we have wasted the lives of so many people who could be saved..No wonder, my contemporaries, the children of japa have every reasons to so do if this is still the tyoe of system we run.

A case in point was an Okada rider who was hit by a hit and run trailer in my area Kenta idi aba ,at the backyard of the renowned Nobel Laureatez, Professor Wole Soyinka's domain yesterday in the late evening. We made frantic effirts to make him access medical treatment immediately by first reporting at the kenta idi- aba , police Station only to meet a brickwall, as the police said there was no vehicles.. As if that was not enough, the good spirited police officers promptly rose to the occasion and with their support, we got a taxi cab who took us to FMC.. The police officer made a valid stateme that gripped me .." Police is after all, not the problem".

.Alas, the expected happened at FMC as usual, no bed space! .While the guy was gasping for breath,we were told that we should either proceed to State Hospital , ijaiye or Lantoro hospital ..

We raced to the venue at least to safe the live of the victim only to meet a Brickwall again. At both hospital, we met only young Doctots probably on intern who could not take decisions on such critical issues...That is amother issue for another day because this is not also new..It is usually the norm...

Again ,we were turned back to go and look for treatment elsewhere, even in company of Law enforcement agents..I was just making frantic calls here and there. Save for the intervention of a good spirited Senior Medical officer, whom I will not mention his name here,who later mandated that the patient should be admitted, we would have been left stranded and another spanner wjould have been lost..!!!..What is really the value of lives in this clime ?.. How long for crying out loud are we going to contend with this kind of inadequacies...?

And, the crusade on the use of helmet by okada rides should be sustained by the appropriate authorities...I now understands when they were heavily fined.Were it not for the safety helmet, that unknown Okada rider would have died instantly....!!!

It is not a surprise to me though, but how long?, because I had lost a dear younger brother in similar circumstances just in April this year when he sustained a first degree burnt and FMC said there was no bed space and we had ro rush him to UCH, in Ibadan..He eventually gave up the ghost anyway...

Law Enforcement, No OPERATIONS VEHICLE, HOSPITAL, NO BED SPACE, EVEN JOURNALIST HAVE LOST THE INK TO WRITE..!!

May Nigeria Suceeds!!!

The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun has underscored the importance of sports to promote healthy living.

Oba Gbadebo stated this when he received organisers of the 2023 Lotus Bank Abeokuta 10KM Race led by the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Chief Bukola Olopade.

The Paramount Ruler of Egbaland who described active participation in any form of sports as a greatest assurance of good life, said the race would encouraged others to show commitment to the development of sports in the state.

Oba Gbadebo described Chief Bukola Olopade as the best organizer of sporting events across Nigeria, the highly revered Monarch gave his words that he would always be part of every event floated by the Egba High Chief.

He gave his Royal Blessings and appreciated the organizers for further putting Egbaland on the World Map with the prestigious event.

Earlier, the Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Chief Bukola Olopade had explained that race scheduled for 9th September, 2023 would be an integral part of the week long Birthday celebration of Egba's foremost Monarch.


Chief Olopade who is the Osi Asoju Oba of Egbaland said the visit to the palace was necessary to get his blessings which he noted would go a long way in helping to plan and stage a very successful event.

The former commissioner for youth and sports in the Gateway State explained that the choice of Lotus Bank and other sponsors was strategic as the organizers made it a point of duty to associate with illustrious sons and daughters of Egbaland, as well as companies with a touch of the rich Egba Heritage.

The Managing Director, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, NSML, Chief Bukola Olopade says modalities have been put in place towards a hitch free 2023 Lotus Bank Abeokuta 10 kilometer Race in September.

Addressing a World Press Conference at the iconic Centenary Hall, Ake, Abeokuta, Chief Olopade appreciated the sponsors, the Ogun State government, the Media and other stakeholders involved in the success story.

He expressed optimism of recording another successful outing considering the all requirements in place.

The project Manager, NSML, Mr. Seyi Johnson told journalists that 42 elite runners had expressed interest in taking part, while indigent runners would also the part of the race.

Mr Johnson pointed out that the first elite runners to get to the finish line would get five thousand dollars each in the male and female categories, other athletes who complete the top five would also smile home with dollars.

He announced One Million Naira prize money for the first indigenous runner in the male and female categories.

Mr Johnson said the prestigious road race would commence at Iyana Oloke, Onikolobo and would terminate at the Alake Palace.

In a remark, The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ogun State, Dr. Yusuf Adegboyega Kudus who was represented by the General Manager, Ogun State Sports Council, Mrs. Iyabo Rotimi expressed the readiness of the state government to continue making provision for an enabling environment for sports to thrive.

He reiterated the state government's resolve to stage the best ever National Sports Festival in the history of Nigeria, come 2024.

The Group Head, South West Marketing, Lotus Bank, Mr. Folajinmi Brodie-Mends expressed the readiness of the company to partner Nilayo Sports Management Limited based on track records and antecedents.

he assured that Lotus Bank will continue to take the front seat whenever quality comes to the front burner.

Also at the event were the Head, Brand Communications, Lotus Bank, Mr. Bashir Salami, Relationship Manager, Lotus Bank Abeokuta, Mrs. Funmi Aberuagba, the Chief Operating Officer, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Mr. Ebidowei Oweifie, the Media and people from different walks of Life.

... advocates establishment for more privately owned football clubs

The President, Remo Stars Football Club, Otunba Kunle Soname has donated the sum N28million for the players, coaching crew and supporters club.

Otunba Soname announced the cash gifts at a reception held at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, Ogun state to appreciate the players, technical crew and supporters club for qualifying for the CAF Champions League and coming second on the log of Nigeria Professional Football League.


Otunba Soname who hinged the success of the club on hard work and structured football development.

According to him, if a development is not structured, the success will be intermittent.


The Remo Stars President, therefore, called for the establishment of privately owned football clubs in the country to galvanize the economic development of the Nigerian football league.


Otunba Soname, therefore, gave out the sum of 20 million naira to the Players and additional 5 million naira to the coaching and medical crew.

The supporters club also went home with the sum of 1.5 million naira while the media crew also carted away the sum of 1.5 million naira.

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State chapter has solicited the partnership of the foremost airline company in Nigeria, Value Jet for 3rd edition of SWAN/SECURITY Cup.

The SWAN Security Cup is a football competition organized by the Sports Writers for security and safety agencies in Ogun state.

The association in a courtesy visit to the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the airline company, Chief Kunle Soname said the annual football fiesta has become a tradition

Speaking on behalf of the association,  SWAN Chairman in Ogun state, Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde who led the delegation to the airline chairman/CEO maintained that, the competition is the only avenue to foster unity, friendship and spirit of esprit de corp among rank and file of the officers of the security and safety agencies in the state.

Alhaji Akintunde said the airline company known for its Corporate Social Responsibility and excellent tourism and hospitality was carefully chosen as the official title sponsor.

He said "Mr. Chairman, we have monitored your antecedent and growing business enterprise, we have seen how Value Jet has been responsible for the growth and development of sports in Nigeria especially in Para Table Tennis, Para Power lifting and Road Races.

"The SWAN security cup is part of our own contribution to encourage and appreciate our security operatives in Ogun state. As sports writers, the only way to contribute our quota is to create an avenue to further improve their mental alertness, physical well-being and relax after horrendous job.

"It is on this note, we seek your support and sponsorship of this year's edition through your airline company. This will also be another CSR of Value Jet and support for the security agencies."

Responding, the Chairman/CEO, Value Jet Airline, Otunba Kunle Soname commended SWAN leadership for their dynamism and initiative.

Otunba Soname said one of the best ways to support government in sports development was to partner with SWAN.

According to him, government alone cannot drive sports, he said it requires the collective involvement of all stakeholders including the private sector and SWAN.

He, however, promised to review the proposal for the hosting of the SWAN Security Cup and assist where necessary.

The French Development Agency, AFD, is partnering the State Water Corporation, to rehabilitate water plants and improve distribution network to deliver potable water to the people.

Speaking in an interview after leading a delegation to a meeting with the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun in his office at Oke-Mosan Abeokuta, the Task Team Leader of the AFD, in charge of Water and Sanitation, Mr.Olivier Gilard, said they were in the State to make final evaluation of the State Urban Water Project.

Mr Gilard who noted that though the project would not solve all problems relating to water in the metropolis and the state, expressed the hope that the project would provide thousands of people in the city access to portable water in the nearest further when completed.

The AFD Task Team Leader described water as a basic service needed by the people and necessary for the economic development and commended the State governor for being proactive in the water sector.

Also speaking, the Acting General Manager of the State Water Corporation, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Jaji, said the project is divided into infrastructure and soft components, emphasizing that the objective is to increase the coverage, continuity and ensure quality water supply in Abeokuta and its environs.

Mrs Jaji noted that the project was to improve financial viability of the corporation to enable it improve on its revenue generation and reduce cost, adding that it's also to improve governance in the water sector of the State.

On the efforts of the Corporation to make water available to the people, Mrs. Jaji disclosed that the rehabilitation of essential infrastructure have been completed, assuring that when the remaining inputs have been put in place, water would flow in all the nooks and crannies of Abeokuta and other parts of the State.

While appealing to the people to bear with the Corporation in it's efforts to make water available, the Acting General Manager called on them to pay their bills when water is restored to keep the organisation in business.

Arrangements to stage the second edition of Ogun Women Run are in top gear.

The organizers of Ogun Women Run, Brussels Sports Management Limited, have confirmed that the race will take place on Saturday July 8, 2023 in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.

According to the Race Director, Mr. Ebidowei Oweifie, the race which debuted in 2022 will be bigger and better in every facet.

He said "Plans are already in place to stage a very befitting event, the first edition was an eye opener and we are quite happy with the feedback we got, we are however committed to getting better in every facet of the event"

"We appreciate our volunteers, the Athletic Federation of Nigeria, our sponsors, the Ogun State government and all stakeholders who are working behind the scene to make this edition a success, come July 8, 2023, we will continue what we started, but this time around with a lot of colour, glitz and glamour".

Organizers have also revealed that the race route stays the same, the starting point is First Bank, Sapon, while the race terminates at the MKO Abiola stadium, ABEOKUTA.

Ladies who fall withing the ages of 18 and 60 are eligible to participate in the event after obtaining the form and certified fit to participate.

Forms for runners who want to participate are available from the 7th of June, 2023 at the All Stars Football Club Secretariat, MKO Abiola stadium, ABEOKUTA, Ogun State

The winner of the Race is scheduled to go home with Five Hundred Thousand Naira, while the First and second runner up are scheduled to receive Three Hundred and Two Hundred Thousand Naira Respectively.

Olude Kehinde Ajoke ran a time of twenty minutes and four seconds(20:04) to emerge winner at the first edition of the five kilometer race.

Seven Up Bottling company, Aquafina, Access Bank, Bet9ja, Nilayo Sports Management Limited and Finerge are Partners and Sponsors of the 2023 Ogun Women Run.

The Ogun State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, has urged the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun to invest in the sports sector to drive the economy of the state.

SWAN in a congratulatory message jointly signed by the Chairman, Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde and Secretary, Mr Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji expressed the hope that, the second term of the governor would witness a massive sports infrastructural development, especially when the state is hosting the 22nd National Sports Festival in 2024.

The association equally called on the governor to give the needed attention to the state football club, Gateway United in their to restore the lost glory.

The sports writers maintained that, the ISEYA mantra of the governor should include the turnaround of the sports sector.

The association however felicitated the SWAN Grand Patron, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on his second term swearing-in as the 7th Executive Governor of the Gateway State.

Abeokuta will host the first edition of the 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball Championship from 22nd to 24th, June 2023.

The President of Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria, Mr Seyi Johnson made the disclosure after a meeting with sponsor, Nilayo Sports Management during the weekend.

Mr Johnson explained that the championship became necessary to give opportunity to wheelchair basketball players who have not participated in championship for over a decade.

He noted that the championship would give a sense of belonging to players scattered across the country.

The sports marketer said, "One of my mandates before becoming President of the Federation was to qualify Nigeria for major international championships and stage national championship.

"The essence of the Abeokuta Championship is to give opportunity to various players who have been inactive over the years and expose them to the game they once loved.

"After the election, I made a passionate plead to the Group Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, Chief Bukola Olopade who was a former President of the Federation on the need to orgainse a championship and he keyed into the initiative.

"I want to assure the players that the current board is doing everything possible to improve the welfare of the players as well as ensuring championships are held quarterly to prepare us for the challenges ahead.

Barring any last-minute changes,
the Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt Hon Femi Gbajabiamila, will serve as Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Babatunde Fashola as Attorney General of the Federation, Mr Wale Edun as Finance Minister, and James Faleke as Special Duties Minister. Engr David Umahi is expected to serve as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

Dr Betta Edu, the current National Women Leader of the APC, is set to become the Minister of Women’s Affairs, while Dele Alake will be the Minister of Information, and Mr Bayo Onanuga will serve as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. The source added that Dr Ben Ayade, Cross River Governor, would serve as Minister of Agriculture, Mr Nuhu Ribadu, a former Chairman of the EFCC, as Minister of Police Affairs, Prince Ade Omole as Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Gov. Nyesom Wike as Works and Housing Minister and Otunba Dr Adejare Rewane Adegbenro Director General Natcom

The source further added that Gov Abubakar Bagudu would serve as Minister of Rural Development and Dr Felix Nicholas as Minister of Youth and Sports Development. Barrister Uju Ohanenye is expected to be the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management, and Social Development, with Mr Adetokunbo Adegboyega as the State Chief of Protocol (SCOP), and Sen. Tokunbo Afikuyomi as the Special Adviser on National Assembly Matters.

Other appointments include Rt Hon Jimi Benson as SA Domestic, General Abdulrahman Bello Dambazau, Rtd., as National Security Adviser (NSA), Gen Tukur Yusuf Buratai as Minister of Defence, Hajia Hadiza Bala Usman as FCT Minister, Barrister Hannatu Musawa as Deputy Chief of Staff, and Ms Stella Okotete as Minister of Education ,

The source also listed Tinubu’s aides, including Lieutenant Colonel Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf as Aide-De-Camp (ADC), ACP Usman Shugaba as Chief Personal Security Officer, Mr Babatunde Ogala (SAN) as State House Counsel, and Mr Adedamilotun Aderemi as Private Secretary (PS). Others include Mr Dada Olusegun as Special Assistant on Digital Communications, Mallam Adamu Garba Talba as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) Project Management, Mr Nosa Asemota as Personal Assistant (Presidential Photographer), Mr Ayobami Oyalowo as Special Assistant on Digital/News Media, and Mr Makinde Araoye as Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

According to the source, Tinubu chose those on his ministerial and aides list based on their pedigree and antecedents, considering them fitting for the appointments and the task ahead. The source said those on the list deserved the positions due to their track records of service delivery and being loyal party members with the interest of enthroning a better Nigeria for all.

It had been said that Tinubu would hit the ground running immediately after his inauguration as the country’s next President on May 29th.