In a bid to reposition his administration for optimal performance and for the actualisation of his redemption agenda, Ondo State governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has approved the allocation of portfolio to commissioners and special advisers.

Some commissioners were moved to new ministries, while newly inaugurated cabinet members allocated their portfolios.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Segun Ajiboye, the governor directed the affected commissioners and special advisers to handover all necessary documents within the next week.

The portfolios for the commissioners are Kola Olawoye, SAN Attorney General and Comm. for Justice, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa Finance, Pastor Emmanuel Igbasan Economic Planning and Budget, Funso Esan Environment, Yemi Olowolabi Culture and Tourism, Mrs. Julianah Omolola Fagbemi Local Govt. and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prof Bayonile Ademodi Regional Integration and Special Duties Femi Agagu Education, Science and Technology ,Dr. Wahab Adegbenro, Health and Rasheed Badmus, Physical Planning and Urban Development



Others are Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye Works and Infrastructure, Otunba Adegboyega Adefarati Agriculture, Donald Ojogo Information and Orientation, Mrs. Yetunde Adeyanju Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Mrs. Titilayo Adeyemi Women Affairs and Social Development,Temitayo Oluwatuyi Natural Resources,Fatai Olotu Lands and Housing,Akindotun Olubunmi Owanikin,Esq, Youth and Sports Development.

The Special Advisers are Dr. Olawumi Juliet Ilawole, Education Akinboye Taiwo Oyewumi Investment and Development, Tunji Ifabiyi, Commerce and Industry, Engr. Tunji Ariyomo Energy, Tobi Ogunleye, Esq. Transport, Alaba Isijola, Union Matters, Engr. Raimi Olayiwola Aminu, Lands, Works and Infrastructure,Mrs. Olubunmi Olubukola Ademosu,Public and Intergovernmental Relations.

The rest are Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye Health, Rt. Hon. Adekanye Olabimtan, Political Matters and Strategy, Babatunde Kolawole, Rural and Community Development and Oyebo Aladetan,Niger Delta Affairs

SOURCE: https://thenationonlineng.net/akeredolu-approves-new-portfolio-for-ondo-commissioners-others/

The Osun All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, described the Supreme Court judgment that affirmed Gov. Gboyega Oyetola as the winner of Sept. 22 Governorship Election in the state as “historic’’.

News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Supreme Court in a split judgment of five to two on Friday upheld the election of Oyetola.

APC, in a statement by its Publicity Secretary, Mr Kunle Oyatomi, on Friday in Osogbo, said that God had used the highest legal authority of the land to proclaim the truth that Oyetola lawfully won the election.

According to him, the Progressive God that Osun people are serving heard their prayers and granted their request.



“Our fears for the calamity that might have befallen the state of Osun, if the PDP had been declared winner, have now been assuaged.

“We are overjoyed for this amazing grace.

“Those who had wished for a different outcome have a lesson to learn here; that there is a natural limit to which you can stretch evil.

“It was this limit the PDP got in their attempt to stage a miraculous upset at last September’s election.”

Oyatomi said that subsequent efforts to spin the law at the tribunal, unraveled at the Court of Appeal, finally died at the Supreme Court.

“The details are now history. This is not simply a victory for the party alone; it is a victory for the good people of the state of Osun.

“May the good Lord give the governor the wisdom, strength and foresight to expand the legacy he inherited, and set Osun on the irreversible course that God and the entire people of Osun will be proud of,” Oyatomi said.

Meanwhile, Oyetola has described his victory at the apex court as a victory for democracy.

The governor, who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Adeshina Adeniyi, in an interview with NAN, said he was happy with the judgment.

Oyetola, who dedicated the victory to God and the people of the state, said he believed justice had been done.

The governor said he was ready to serve the people of the state faithfully and diligently.

SOURCE: https://thenationonlineng.net/oyetola-apc-reacts-to-supreme-court-judgment/

The Ondo State Government is facilitating a strategy to ensure that programmes meant to impact on the people in the eighteen local government areas of the state live up to expectations of both the government and the people.

The various social intervention programmes are carefully being implemented to avoid a situation where those in the urban areas feature for intervention programmes that are meant to improve sicio-economic and political existence of the people and the areas in general.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Public and Intergovernmental Relations, Mrs Olubunmi Ademosu who was speaking at a programme organised by Sumshine Integrity Group to boost the second term bid of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN emphasized that many national and global ideas that have been enjoyed in other states for years were just facilitated by the Governor.

Mrs Ademosu who highlighted the intervention programmes which include N-Power, N-Build and Public Workfare under the Youth Employment and Social Support Operations (YESSO) emphasized that over thirty thousand youths have benefited and are still benefiting in the state.

She explained that over enrolment and registration of beneficiaries of the Public Workfare in the pilot six local government areas is currently being completed as no fewer than six thousand vulnerable youths and women are to be engaged with monthly remuneration.
Ademosu therefore advised the people of Ondo State to consider the pace of development being witnessed as the next governorship election approaches.

The Special Adviser described as untrue a report that she accused party leadership of diverting funds meant for Home Grown School Feeding Programme wondering how funds paid directly into the accounts of the beneficiaries could be diverted.

Mrs Ademosu stressed that the present administration in the country has moved from giving physical cash to beneficiaries of its programmes , noting that money is now paid directly into individual accounts.

She emphasized that the basic statement she made was that those in the urban areas should not deprive those in the rural areas of benefiting from the carious programmes designed and being implemented in the State , many of which have never been witnessed in the state.

Mrs Ademosu therefore called on media practitioners to clarify their stories before publication to avoid misrepresentation of facts and therefore called on umbrella bodies to flush out quacks among them.

The Ondo State Government is facilitating a strategy to ensure that programmes meant to impact on the people in the eighteen local government areas of the state live up to expectations of both the government and the people.

The various social intervention programmes are carefully being implemented to avoid a situation where those in the urban areas feature for intervention programmes that are meant to improve sicio-economic and political existence of the people and the areas in general.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Public and Intergovernmental Relations, Mrs Olubunmi Ademosu who was speaking at a programme organised by Sumshine Integrity Group to boost the second term bid of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN emphasized that many national and global ideas that have been enjoyed in other states for years were just facilitated by the Governor.

Mrs Ademosu who highlighted the intervention programmes which include N-Power, N-Build and Public Workfare under the Youth Employment and Social Support Operations (YESSO) emphasized that over thirty thousand youths have benefited and are still benefiting in the state.

She explained that over enrolment and registration of beneficiaries of the Public Workfare in the pilot six local government areas is currently being completed as no fewer than six thousand vulnerable youths and women are to be engaged with monthly remuneration.
Ademosu therefore advised the people of Ondo State to consider the pace of development being witnessed as the next governorship election approaches.

The Special Adviser described as untrue a report that she accused party leadership of diverting funds meant for Home Grown School Feeding Programme wondering how funds paid directly into the accounts of the beneficiaries could be diverted.

Mrs Ademosu stressed that the present administration in the country has moved from giving physical cash to beneficiaries of its programmes , noting that money is now paid directly into individual accounts.

She emphasized that the basic statement she made was that those in the urban areas should not deprive those in the rural areas of benefiting from the carious programmes designed and being implemented in the State , many of which have never been witnessed in the state.

Mrs Ademosu therefore called on media practitioners to clarify their stories before publication to avoid misrepresentation of facts and therefore called on umbrella bodies to flush out quacks among them.

SOURCE: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu's-Aide-Clarifies-Statement-on-Social-Intervention-Programme

President Muhammadu Buhari has given his assent to the Suppression of Piracy and other Maritime Offences Bill, 2019, in a move aimed at improving security on the country’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone.

The presidential assent, dated June 24, 2019, followed the passage of the bill by the Senate and the House of Representatives on April 9, 2019, and April 30, 2019, respectively.



The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency facilitated the drafting of the bill in 2012, in collaboration with the International Maritime Organisation.

In addition to addressing maritime insecurity, the new law fulfils the international requirement for a standalone legislation on piracy, as against the approach of using the Maritime Operations Coordinating Board Amendment Bill to criminalise piracy.

NIMASA said with the Act, Nigeria had officially become the first country in the West and Central African sub-regions to promulgate a separate law against piracy, an important international requirement set by the IMO as part of the measures to guarantee secure global shipping.

A statement quoted the Director General of NIMASA, Dr Dakuku Peterside, as saying that the move was a step in the right direction.

He said, “This is not just a victory for NIMASA, but also for all the stakeholders in the Nigerian maritime community. We are determined to continue to deliver on our promise to investors and the international community to ensure an increasingly safer and more secure environment for profitable maritime business.”

Some of the provisions of the Act include a distinct definition of piracy and other maritime offences/unlawful acts; punishment upon conviction for maritime crimes; restitution to owners of violated maritime assets or forfeiture of proceeds of maritime crime to the Federal Government; and establishment of a Piracy and Maritime Offences Fund with prescribed sources of funding that will be utilised in the implementation of the Act.

The new law also vests exclusive jurisdiction for the determination of matters under the Act in the Federal High Court. It empowers relevant authorities mentioned under the Act to seize vessels or aircraft used for maritime crimes anywhere in Nigeria and in international waters or in the jurisdiction of any country where the ship is reasonably believed to be a pirate-controlled ship or aircraft.

Nigeria topped the piracy chart in 2018 with 31 incidents.

SOURCE: https://punchng.com/buhari-signs-anti-piracy-bill-into-law/

This is great. God bless Mr Governor

The management of Akure Airport has expressed appreciation to the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s administration in Ondo State over the impressive patronage of the airport since the Governor assumed office in 2017.

The Airport management said the impressive patronage came about through the personal interventions of the Governor.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the governor on Tuesday , the Airport Manager, Mrs Joke Olatunji said the Akure Airport has never witnessed the level of activities going on there now, since the airport commenced operations in 1986.

The Manager said through the personal interventions of the State Governor, Airpeace started the Lagos–Akure Route which has now become a daily flight and the Abuja-Akure Route, which used be to occasional with Overland, was made stable and equally now coming daily.

Mrs Olatunji also recalled the support given by the governor for the construction of a temporary Terminal and the VIP parking space which she said were the resultant effects of the increase in the patronage of the Airport.

However, the Manager pleaded with the State Governor to step up his interventions for the Airport which she said was one of the designated Cargo Airports in Southwest Nigeria.

In his remarks, Governor Akeredolu expressed joy that the efforts at bringing Airpeace to commence Lagos-Akure Routes and Overland to increase his flight days to Akure from Abuja have turned out productive as both routes have now become self-sustaining.

He said the development has positively scale-up investment inflows into the Sunshine State as several genuine investors prefer Ondo State above other states.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/akure-airport-management-appreciates-akeredolu-over-impressive-patronage/

Ondo State Government yesterday kick started the distribution of 250,000 improved cocoa seedlings to farmers across the state as it awaits the N20billion Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) allocation to farmers.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Asiwaju Adegboyega Adefarati made this known during the flag-off of the distribution held in Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo local government area of Ondo state.

Adefarati said the seedlings which are high yielding, early maturing, insect pest and disease resistant varieties were distributed freely for farmers to domesticate on their farms.

“It would also help to consolidate the position as the leading producer of cocoa and to remain at the pinnacle of its production,” he stressed.

The Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Segun Odusanya told newsmen that the distribution was to improve the quality of produce yields of the farmers.

Odusanya who confirmed that the seedlings were given to real farmers said the ministry has the register of all farmers who belong to different commodity associations.

He disclosed that about 200 seedlings will be given to each farmer saying that the state is targeting about 2,000 farmers for the programme.

The President of Farmers Business Union in Ondo state and local government chairman of Farmers Congress, Chief Ebenezer Adenisimi said they were impressed with the level of the dividends of democracy being delivered to the people by the state governor to empower farmers across the three senatorial districts of the state .

The Chairperson of Ile-Oluji Development Council of Ile-Oluji kingdom, Chief Dupe Ogunsusi declared that farmers will benefit from the gesture because it will give them better yield to cater for their families.

The former Caretaker Chairman of Ile-Oluji Okeigbo local government, Mr Temidayo Akinsuroju appreciated the state government for extending support to the citizens of Ile-Oluji.

The Director, Project Manager of Tree Crop unit at the ministry, Mrs Mary Omogunwa thanked the government for bringing the department back to life on its responsibility.

SOURCE: https://www.thehopenewspaper.com/odsg-distributes-250000-cocoa-seedlings-to-farmers/

The governor noted that Ondo state would only be interested in ranches, which could even create employment opportunities for the teeming youths in the state.

Rotimi Akeredolu, Governor of Ondo State has kicked against the proposed Ruga settlements for herdsmen across the country.

Akeredolu said the Ruga settlements, initiated by the federal government cannot be in the interests of Ondo state as the lands in the state had been earmarked for forest reserves and agriculture.

The governor noted that Ondo state would only be interested in ranches, which could even create employment opportunities for the teeming youths in the state.

He spoke while responding to a tweet on his official Twitter handle @RotimiAkeredolu on Tuesday, stressing that Ondo state already has two expansive lands used for ranching in Akunnu and Auga Akoko.

"Our stance on the Ruga settlements debate is clear. Ondo is only interested in ranches. We have 2 large ranches existing in Akunnu and Auga.

"Auga can accommodate 5,000 cows. A key difference here is that we have no preference for who manages the cattle. The ranch owners decide.

”Primary reason for #RugaSettlements although understandable does not truly factor the interests of every State. We have a youth unemployment crisis our ranches can address. Ondo State must prioritize agriculture due to the arable nature of our land.

”A lot of our land is already earmarked for forest reserves. The FG must understand why we need to be strategic in our decision making.

"We implore the FG to revisit the proposal based on feedback from the different States & act accordingly," Akeredolu said on his official Twitter handle.

The federal government has been receiving knocks from critics over the planned Ruga initiative.

Yoruba youths had on Monday also rejected plan and vowed to protest against any governors in the southwest that would buy into the initiative.

SOURCE: http://saharareporters.com/2019/07/02/we-have-ranches-cater-over-5000-cows-no-need-ruga-settlements-governor-akeredolu

Seven months after being recommended for dismissal, President Muhammadu Buhari has finally sacked the Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme, Prof Usman Yusuf.

A panel set up by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation had last December recommended Yusuf for dismissal for alleged fraud and other misdemeanours.



Similarly, a panel set up by the Federal Ministry of Health had in 2017 recommended his dismissal following findings that he allegedly mismanaged N919m.

The Director, Media, Federal Ministry of Health, Mrs Boade Akinola, said in a statement that the President had appointed Prof Mohammed Sambo, as the new head of the NHIS.

The statement read in part, “Following the recommendations of report by an independent fact-finding panel on the NHIS, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the termination of appointment of the Executive Secretary, Prof. Usman Yusuf, who has been on administrative leave and has approved the appointment of Prof. Mohammed Sambo as the new executive secretary

“Similarly, the President also approved the dissolution of the governing board of the NHIS and directed the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health to exercise full powers of the council pending the constitution of a new board.

“President Buhari has also approved the appointment of Dr Chikwe Ihekweazu as the Director –General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. The appointment is in line with the provisions of Section 11(1)(3) of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control(Establishment) Act, 2018.”

SOURCE: https://punchng.com/buhari-sacks-controversial-nhis-boss-dissolves-board/

The Ondo State Governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu on Monday lamented that the internally generated revenue of the state was low.

He said there was a need for improvement in the revenue generation of the state.

The governor said the state was generating internally a sum of N1.5billion monthly as revenue but the money was low. He, however, said the amount was an improvement when compared with the N700million that was being generated by the previous administration.

Akeredolu stated this at the swearing-in of a new Head of Service, Mr. Oluwadare Aragbaye. The event was held at the International Event Centre, Akure, the Ondo State capital.

He said his administration would not give room for embezzlement of public funds and would continue to block all loopholes through which some unscrupulous elements in the service stole government money.

The governor said, “It is incumbent on all of us who serve to assist in blocking all loopholes through which some mindless persons siphon public funds. While I commend the board of internal revenue for the remarkable improvement in IGR of the State, we must all accept that it is still very low.

“There are still yawning gaps in the revenue generation drive in the state. This administration shall view very gravely, all cases of sabotage in our revenue generating efforts. We await the outcome of the trials on the matters already before the court. Any civil servant who acts disgracefully will be sanctioned.

While congratulating the new Head of Service (Aragbaye) on the new position, Akeredolu urged him to come up with measures that would propel the civil servants in the state to be more hardworking.

“The new Head of Service is enjoined to put in place measures which will ensure that only those who work hard earn wages. I expect to see remarkable shift in the organisation of departments and parastatals for optimum service delivery to the people.

“It should not be challenging for the government to know those in its employ. We should be able to assess the inputs of our workers. We must move away, decidedly, from a practice which encourages indolence in public service,” Akeredolu charged.

SOURCE: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/There's-need-to-Improve-the-State's-IGR--says-Governor-Akeredolu

The Presidency has frowned at recent unhelpful comments regarding the plan to stop roaming of cattle herders with the attendant clashes with farmers via the establishment of ‘Ruga Settlement’ across the country.

“Ruga Settlement” seeks to settle migrant pastoral families.

It simply means rural settlement in which animal farmers, not just cattle herders, would be settled in an organised place with provision of necessary and adequate basic amenities.

Such amenities include schools, hospitals, road networks, veterinary clinics, markets and manufacturing entities that would process and add value to meats and animal products.

Malam Garba Shehu, the President’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity in a statement in Abuja on Sunday, explained that beneficiaries of the Ruga Settlement would include all persons in animal husbandry, not only Fulani herders.

He said: ”The Federal Government is planning this in order to curb open grazing of animals that continue to pose security threats to farmers and herders.

”The overall benefit to the nation includes a drastic reduction in conflicts between herders and farmers.

”A boost in animal protection complete with a value chain that will increase the quality and hygiene of livestock in terms of beef and milk production increased quality of feeding and access to animal care and private sector participation in commercial pasture production by way of investments.”

According to the presidential aide, other gains of the scheme are job creation, access to credit facilities, security for pastoral families and curtailment of cattle rustling. Shehu dismissed the insinuation that the Federal Government planned to seize state land or force state governments to embrace the scheme.

”Stripped of the politics and howling that has attended the recent comments, there is no government plan to seize state land, colonize territory or impose Ruga on any part of the federation.

”Government has made it clear time and again that the programme is voluntary,” he said. Shehu also revealed that so far, 12 states had applied to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, making lands available for the take-off of the scheme in their states, adding that the number would be sufficient for the pilot scheme.

”Unfortunately, some state governments that have not signified interest in the scheme and, therefore, are not on the invitation list have been misleading people that the Federal Government is embarking on a scheme to take away their lands.

”Mostly, these are state leaders that have no explanation to offer their people for continued non-payment of workers’ salaries.

”It is true that government at the centre has gazetted lands in all states of the federation but because the idea is not to force this programme on anyone, the government has limited the take-off to the dozen states with valid requests.

The presidential spokesman, therefore, urged states to partner with the federal government in encouraging all sides to these conflicts to make efforts towards finding a peaceful resolution.

”As we seek a permanent solution to these unwanted conflicts, efforts must be made to ensure that no innocent person faces any kind of deprivation or loss of right and freedom under our laws,” he added.

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/07/ruga-settlement-to-address-farmers-herders-conflicts-presidency/

Chevron Nigeria Limited, operator of Joint Venture between the NNPC and CNL has said that the fire that gutted its Ojumole Well No 1 has been put out.

Mr Esimaje Brikinn, the General Manager, Policy, Government and Public Affairs of Chevron Nigeria Limited, confirmed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday in Warri.

The News Agency of Nigeria recalled that the Ojumole Well 1 located in Ugbo Kingdom, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State was allegedly gutted by fire on April 18, 2019.



Sources alleged that the facility has been abandoned by the Chevron since 1998 due to communal issues between the people of Ilaje and the neighbouring Ijaw/Arogbo communities.


According to the statement, Ojumole field is in NNPC/CNL JV’s Western Niger Delta area of its operations.

“CNL wishes to thank all the stakeholders including the neighbouring communities, Ondo State Government, regulatory and security authorities that worked with the NNPC/CNL JV to ensure that the fire incident, caused by third party interference, was safely put out.

“Environmental monitoring by accredited independent environmental consultants continues in the area with support from regulatory agencies.

“Our employees are also on site, while normal activities are ongoing in the area.

“CNL remains committed to the safety of the communities and the environment in its areas of operation,” the statement read.

The company assured that Chevron remained committed to the protection of the people and the environment while conducting its operations safely, reliably and in an efficient manner.

Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture has concluded plans to commence the annual distributions of free Improved Cocoa Seedlings from next week Tuesday.

The annual distribution of free improved Cocoa seedlings which farmers across the state usually looks forward to is part of the Ministry’s deliberate strategies to ensure farmers expand their farms, increase yields & income

The free distribution of the improved Cocoa Seedlings will kick off on Tuesday at Besides Aunty Nike Nursery/ Pry School Ipetu Road at ile Oluji in ile- Oluji Local Government Area by ten in the morning.

The train will move to Olupona near Itaoniyan in Akure South Local Government Area on Wednesday while the distribution train will berth at Ehinogbe Area in Owo Local government Area of the State on Thursday.

Cocoa farmers at Ondo, Ikare and Okitipupa are expected to visits ADP offices and nurseries for their consignments as officers of the Tree Crops Unit of the Ondo State Ministry of Agriculture are on ground to attend to them and their enquiries.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Adegboyega Adefarati is expected to lead the management of the Ministry and critical stakeholders in agricultural value chain addition to each of designated centre for the free distribution of improved Cocoa Seedlings.

Farmers especially cocoa farmers and other critical stakeholders are expected to take advantage of the exercise to improve their Cocoa farms.

SOURCE: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/ODSG-to-commence-distributions-of-free-improved-cocoa-seedlings

Determined to ensure sustainable agricultural development and improved yields, Ondo state government in partnership with Orbital Solutions Global Services, are adopting technology to raise future farmers.

To this end, the Ondo State Agric-Business Empowerment Centre (OSAEC) in collaboration with Orbital Solutions Global Services, has successfully trained 50 young graduates on how to use drone technology to boost agricultural businesses and reduce stress on the farm.

Speaking at the end of the 5-day extensive training programme in Akure, the Ondo state capital, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Agriculture and Agric-Business, Akin Olotu, explained that agricultural drones would allow farmers to obtain access to a wealth of data they could use to make better management decisions, improve crop yields, and increase overall profitability.

Olotu added that 100 participants were selected across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state out of which 50 have now been trained in the first batch on the usage of drone, saying that the remaining 50 would begin their training this July.

Olotu noted that the new technology would properly guide farmers on how to farm in all seasons, apply necessary application on crops to improve their yields and save money as wells ensure food sufficiency without much labouring.

On his part, the CEO Orbital Solutions Global Services, Mr Adewale Adegoke, said the programme was designed to build the capacity of the participants, stressing that they are also working with an academic institution FUTA, to create a sustainable environment where there would be continuous flow of information.

He further revealed that a toll-free agric-help line has also been developed for farmers to call for necessary assistance from the beneficiaries of the training programme to improve their farm produce and others, just as he added that the participants could also develop their own businesses around agriculture and other areas.

Adegoke who is in charge of the training asserted that the drones could be used to collect data relating to crop yields, livestock health, soil quality, nutrient measurements, weather and rainfall results, among others.

He noted that the high-level drone technology would help remedy the various challenges facing farmers on their farms and provide fast and efficient solutions.

After their theoretical training, the participants were taken to the Federal College of Agriculture, FECA, Akure for practicals.

Some of the participants including Femi Akintufede and Adekanmi Bosede, appreciated the state government and the Orbital Solutions for the training, saying it has equipped them with new technology to address agricultural challenges to ensure improved yields.

SOURCE: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/ODSG--firm-train-50-graduates-in-agric

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has approved the appointment of Mr. Oluwadare Aragbaiye as the Head of Service of the Ondo State Public Service.

The Governor’s approval of the appointment is in line with the provisions of Section 208, Sub-section 3 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.

The appointment is in recognition of Aragbaiye’s reliability and efficiency.

While congratulating the new Head of Service, Governor Akeredolu is convinced that he will provide the right leadership for the state public service to complement the efforts of the administration to reposition the public service.

Prior to his appointment as Head of Service, Oluwadare Aragbaiye was the Permanent Secretary, Government House and Protocol. Aragbaiye joined the state public service in 1985 as an Administrative Officer, Grade Level 08 in the Ministry of Finance.

He was Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of General Administration and Transport.

A shrewd administrator, Oluwadare Aragbaiye has traversed several MDAs in his career in the state public service.

The new Head of Service will be sworn-in at 11 am on Monday at the International Events and Cultural Center (The Dome), Akure.

SOURCE: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Gov--Akeredolu-Appoints-Dare-Aragbaye-As-New-Head-Of-Service-

In order to facilitate health sector development through improved data quality, health facilities in Ondo State will soon begin the use of mobile application for data collection and quality assessment.

The Executive Secretary, Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu disclosed this during the Nigeria State Health Investment Project (NSHIP) State level Training of Trainees(TOT) on District Health Information Software to mobile application for quality assessment and verification in the state held in Igbara Oke, Ifedore Local Government Area of the state.

According to him, the application will improve data analysis quality and reporting for evidence based policy decision.

Describing the paper base method of data collection as cumbersome, he noted that the electronic data system is better, more accurate and sensitive saying “it makes result faster, simultaneous analysis, timely, more responsive and the health system becomes better with it.”

Addressing the participants, Project Coordinator, NSHIP, Dr. Paulinus Omode explained that the training aims at changing the mode of assessment and monitoring in the health facilities.

While stressing the need for TOT to be facilitated to the lower level, he stated that some of the participants are expected to step it down while others should continue to update themselves with the knowledge gathered.

Speaking extensively with The Hope, Omode described the mobile application as an important tool which will help in increasing data quality and also ensure real time data submission and reporting.

According to him, it encourages field check and real time monitoring of data among others.

Describing data as an important tool for planning, he stated that development of the health sector involves the use of accurate data in planning and making informed and evidence based decision.

He explained that NSHIP trains in order to build the capacity of the state health workers in terms of skills to use.

Putting participants through the exercise, M&E officer, NSHIP, Mr. Bamgboye Similoluwa noted that the training aims at improving access to national and Performance Based Financing (PBF) portal management of District Health Information System 2 adding that it also helps in moving from paper work of checklist to mobile application.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/mobile-application-ll-ease-data-collection-akanbiemu/

The six Southwest governors were on Tuesday united against criminal activities in the region.

They restated their preference for state and community police as part of the permanent solutions to the growing crime rate in the region and the country at large.

The governors made their position known at the opening of a three-day Southwest security summit in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

At the summit were governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (Ondo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Gboyega Oyetola (Osun) and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).

The summit was organised by the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission.

Welcoming his colleagues, heads of security agencies, security experts, Yoruba socio-cultural groups, professionals and other participants, Makinde said there was no equivocation that the six governors have resolved to work together for security of lives and property.

The only member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) among the governors described the security situation as worrisome, stressing that the summit came at the right time.

He recalled that kidnapping started in other regions but that it has spread to Southwest giving leaders serious concern. He emphasized that it is the duty of governors to keep people and property safe for the socio-economic well-being of the region.

He said no meaningful development could take place in an insecure atmosphere, hence the need to tackle the challenge headlong.

The governor affirmed his support for community policing, stressing that it was the joint position of the governors.

“Here in Oyo State, we support state police. We speak with one voice, our united voice in strengthening security,” Makinde said.

He praised DAWN Commission and promised that the governors will support it to attain higher level of performance.

In his short welcome speech, DAWN Director General Mr Seye Oyeleye said the importance attached to the summit was epitomized by the presence of the six governors.

Explaining that insecurity is not peculiar to Southwest or Nigeria, Oyeleye said the goal of leaders in the region is to sustain the status of the region as the safest to live, invest and recreate. “Western Nigeria is the safest region in Nigeria and we will keep it as the safest. Southwest is open to business and it will remain so,” he said.

Also welcoming participants, the Chairman of governors in the region, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, said the summit became pertinent given the spate of kidnapping and other crimes in the region. He said members of all classes in the society have fallen victim, stressing that no one is safe.

“The anxiety of our people is palpable. There is great fear in the minds of the traditional rulers. This great fear is against the development of Yoruba land,” Akeredolu said.

He believed that more efforts would be made in addition to the summit as a one-off solution can not solve the problem.

Stressing the need for regional approach in confronting the challenge, Akeredolu said no state could achieve greatness in isolation. “Yoruba people stand to benefit from our resolve to remain central to the development of Nigeria. There should be no problem in delivering best services to our people while working together. Political differences should not stand in the way of working for the progress of our people and region,” Akeredolu said.

The governor described the Yoruba as “very hospitable” and “accommodating”, adding that this accounted for why so many non-Yoruba have migrated into the region. But he said that the region will not allow anyone to ruffle the peace and security for which the region is known.

He said: “There is the urgent need that compels a review of our hospitality. Our people are under a siege, and this threatens the ethnic fraternity that exists here. This is caused by the criminals among us. We must dig deep into the cause of this problem.”

In his view, the security agencies seem overwhelmed by the challenge. Even schools are no longer safe for children, Akeredolu said, adding that the governors have submitted a document detailing their own ideas on how to solve the problem.

According to him, the overall objective of the efforts to tackle insecurity should be to ensure public safety, peace and protection of public assets and democratic institutions. For this to be achieved, they came up with the four specific targets of reducing crimes and criminality, readiness to work to achieve the set goal, response in times of need and recovery of lost assets.

He also stressed the need for coordination of all stakeholders for directed efforts and sharing of intelligence and information.


Osun State Governor Gboyega Oyetola said the gathering was the realisation of the need to unite against the menace.

He said: “Our gathering is in realisation of the fact that we are stronger when we work together and when we muster concerted strength to face our common foes.

“For us as governors, today’s event, the Stakeholders’ Security Summit of the South West Region, is a call to duty.

“We are resolved to accomplish our most sacred duty to our people in line with Section 14 Sub Section 2 (b) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which says the security and the welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

“I strongly believe that this security summit will offer us an opportunity to better secure our region.

“The Southwest region, noted for its peaceful and mutual coexistence, never witnessed peculiar crimes or violence on the present scale.

“The ongoing mindless killings, kidnapping, rape, banditry and insurgency across the country are strange to the Southwest. They are an anathema to the Omoluabi ethos of peace, development, security, unity and good neighbourliness which our founding fathers handed over to us, and which have governed all the aspects of our lives as a people.

“These security challenges are a threat to lives, and livelihoods of our people as well as the economy of our region. If not checked, the Yoruba nation will be threatened like never before. Livelihood will be eroded. Safety and security will be compromised in an unprecedented manner. Our people, feeling vulnerable and disillusioned, might be constrained to resort to self-help. The time to act to avoid these untoward developments is now. But government cannot do it alone. We require our collective wisdom and professional expertise to address the untoward situation.

“It is instructive and commendable that when recently crimes spread to our region on an unparalleled scale, our governors rose to the occasion by collectively strategising to deal with the situation, including convening this summit to interrogate the issues and brainstorm with all stakeholders to stave off these alien crimes and violence so as to achieve peace and prosperity for our people.”

Oyetola described the acts as sheer criminality, pointing out that members of all ethnic groups are involved.

He said Osun State had been hailed for fighting crime last year. He also highlighted the efforts of his administration in tackling crimes at the moment.

“Since its creation in 1991, The State of Osun has addressed security issues with dispatch and the highest level of resoluteness, which culminated in its ranking as the most peaceful State in the nation in 2018.

“Following the ban on mining activities in Zamfara State earlier in the year, as a result of unbridled banditry and the movement of some of the displaced artisanal miners to our state, we adopted a proactive approach by promptly calling a statewide security stakeholders meeting attended by our political leaders, royal fathers, religious leaders, opinion leaders, security chiefs, top government officials, market women, artisans, professional bodies and other distinguished citizens on April 18, 2019.

“We followed it up with a decentralised method, beginning with a stakeholders’ meeting in the mining area in Ife- Ilesa zone about one month later, precisely, on May 21, 2019, to ensure a cordial relationship between our people and mining vendors.

“Our administration’s Committee on Peaceful Co-existence between Fulani/Bororo and Crop Farmers, is leading the efforts to ensure peace between our people and herdsmen.

“The committee engaged with governments and communities in all the states that border Osun – Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti and Kwara – to prevent the influx of criminals. A security synergy with our neighbouring States will drastically reduce trans-border criminal activities and keep our Region safe.”

The governor also mentioned some other efforts it was making to handle criminality. He also stressed the need for states to collaborate in confronting insecurity.

Also speaking in favour of state police, Oyetola said: “The nation is grossly under-policed and the Police Force is sorely underfunded. Contrary to the United Nations’ ratio requirement of one policeman to 400 citizens, the Nigeria Police has less than 400,000 officers to cover 180 million people. The Force said it needs 155,000 more men to police the nation’s population. The implication of the above is that we need to recognise this situation as an emergency and treat it as such. The Police should be adequately funded and provided with enough personnel and other logistics support to do their job.

“Perhaps on account of the security challenges that we face today, there might be no better time to revisit the call for state police as local officers are better suited to secure our communities.

“However, the security agents are squarely battling the current security breaches. But given better support, they can do more.”

Fayemi praised DAWN Commission for its effectiveness in the last six years. He said the governors were not happy with the level of insecurity in the region and the country at large. “Everywhere we go, they ask us what we are doing about insecurity in the region. The questions are legitimate because they elected us to offer them security, not to give excuses, hence this summit. All the criminal activities are heavy but they are not insurmountable.”

He also reeled out the efforts of his administration in addressing the problem, declaring that they were yielding results. He said the problem would soon be over.

“All your governors are working together, regardless of party affiliation to ensure that life is worth living for all our people. “

Fayemi said security had been the key issue at the federal and regional levels since he became the Chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum, last month.

He also spoke in favour of state police, believing it to be a major solution to policing lapses in the country. He, however, praised the Nigerian Police Force for introducing community policing.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also stressed the need for cooperation among governors to be able to generate a strong and effective solution. He also pointed out that criminality is not peculiar to any particular ethnic group.

His words: “As a country, we are one. Criminality is not peculiar to any region. In Lagos, we continue to strengthen our judicial system. We also do a lot of advocacy, engaging different stakeholders to ensure that community policing serves as the bedrock for security.”

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun said security was required to create the enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He also emphasised the need for collaboration among states and other stakeholders. He said security had been the key issue being discussed at all levels since he was sworn in as governor.

Abiodun said: “I assure you that all of us that you gave your mandate are ready to support all efforts being made to ensure security of lives and property in Nigeria. We must set up collaborative schemes with the private sector to embrace technology and make the work easier and more effective for security agencies.”

He, however, stressed the need to address causes of criminality, such as drug abuse, illiteracy, poverty and unemployment. He also praised the DAWN Commission.

SOURCE: https://thenationonlineng.net/southwest-governors-draw-up-anti-crime-battle-plan/

No fewer than 119 suspects have been arrested within six months and 6703 kg of hard drugs and psychotropic substance seized by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, in Ondo State.

Only 22 convictions were secured by the State Command of the agency.

The State Commandant of the NDLEA, Mr. Haruna Gagara, who said this in Akure noted that the drugs seized by the command included; 5784.61kg of Cannabis Sativa, 917.04 of Psychotropic substances, 2Kg of ‘Skuchies’, 42.1 grams of Cocaine within the period.

Gagara noted that farms of Cannabis Sativa measuring 188 hectares were destroyed adding that during the same period of six months, 119 suspects were arrested.

Speaking on Drug Demand Reduction, DDR, Gagara said: “The Command admitted nine clients, while six clients were successfully counseled and discharged.

“61 suspects between the ages of 14-50 years are also referred for counseling from the supply reduction unit.

“Public enlightenment and awareness campaigns were carried out in 16 different locations within the state.

“Based on the statistics above, it is imperative that governments, communities, families, schools, NGOs and media should take necessary steps to counteract drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state.”

The commander lamented “that the level of drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the country posed threats to security of the Nation, and also the health of citizens who indulged in nefarious activities.

“The teeming number of Nigerian youths currently undergoing counseling and rehabilitation for drug abuse is quite alarming and devastating.

“The rising number of Nigerian youths suffering from one form of mental illness or the other due to substance abuse has continued to be on the increase.”

SOURCE: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2019/06/ondo-we-arrested-119-suspects-seized-6703kg-of-hard-drugs-in-six-months-ndlea/

The efforts of the Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu towards developing a deep seaport in the riverine area of the state appears to have paid off as the Federal Government has finally agreed to open discussions with the state on the project.

This development is coming on the heels of the cancellation of the $2.6bn Badagry deep seaport project by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The Badagry project was reportedly halted on the ground that the deep seaport master plan was wrongly done.

The Managing Director of the NPA, Hajia Hadiza-Bala Usman was reported to have explained that what was currently required in Nigeria was to fast-track the development of deep seaports that would make the nation’s seaports competitive.

In a bid to finding an alternative to the cancelled Badagry seaport project, the NPA boss is expected to have a preliminary meeting with Governor Akeredolu on the possibility of exploring a “seamless but due process” to commence the construction of a deep seaport at Araromi Seaside in Ilaje local government area of Ondo State. The meeting will hold next week, barring the unforeseen.

An impeccable source in the Federal Ministry of Transport who gave the hint said the option to develop the Ondo seaport was informed by certain natural advantages the site had aside the preliminary technical efforts the state government had put in that regards.

“From the look of things, the next destination after Badagry had been cancelled, remains Araromi in the coast of Ilaje local government in Ondo state, and we are committed to this because we are already under pressure to find lasting solutions to the embarrassing gridlock in the Apapa area of Lagos.

“Already, arrangements have been concluded for the NPA team to meet the Ondo State government to explore a seamless, but due process towards the realization of the project.

*We are aware that so much efforts have been put by the state governor for there to be a seaport along the coastline of that state and precisely in Araromi where there is a natural trench and deeper raft than the Badagry project which would be more expensive to embark upon because it lacked the required minimum of 16 meter raft in depth.

He said the choice of Ondo, aside the natural advantages was informed by its proximity to the south east and south via Okitipupa and Ore.

Giving reasons for the cancellation of the Badagry project, the NPA boss said it was done to avoid financial and commercial liabilities.

“If you look at the Badagry and the Lekki deep seaport projects, they are all within the Western ports. The port master plan will guide us on whether it is okay to have two deep seaports in close proximity to each other.”

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/fg-considers-ondo-seaport/

All is set for the eligible screening of Princes who are itching to become the next Olowo of Owo.

Already, 18 Princes all from the Elewokun dynasty have been penciled down for the screening exercise expected to commence any moment from now.

The President of the Senior Omolowos, the body empowered to select a new Olowo and the Ojomuluda of Ijebu Owo, Oba Kofoworola Oladoyinbo Ojomo confirmed to The Hope that the screening will begin shortly.

The Oba who spoke with journalists after a meeting of the Senior Omolowos with Owo local government officials said the screening will last for five days.

He promised to carry the media along and pledged that the exercise will be fair, transparent and equitable.

Oba Ojomo appealed to the people to help the Omolowos make the selection process devoid of rancour and ill feelings as the town cannot progress in the midst of strife.

The Hope learnt that the meeting convened by the senior Omolowos was at the instance of the local government administration through a letter dated June 14, 2019.

Those cleared are: Princes Ogunoye Akinola Olawamide, Ogunoye Philip Adegoke Adegbite, Olatunde Aragun Ogunoye, Ogunoye Adekolajo, Ogunoye Olanrewaju Adelotan, Ogunoye Ajibade Gbadegesin, Ogunoye Olatunde Aragun, Ogunoye Olugbemiga Peter and Ajike Olatubosun Oluwayemi.

Others are Olagbegi Mowasola, Ogunoye Michael Gboyega, Olateru Olagbegi Adesuyi, Olateru Olagbegi Olaleke, Ogunoye Emmanuel Ademola, Ogunoye Adegboyega Victor, Ajike Charles Adedayo, Ogunoye Monday Ogundeji and Ogunoye Olanrewaju Bernard.

Meanwhile, Chief Yomi Ode, The Ajogbo of Owo and also a Senior Omolowo, in a document tagged Motion for Adjournment of the Meeting to Nominate Aspirants To The Stool of The Olowo of Owo referred to a letter from the Director of Local Government Administration of Owo local government and with reference number OWLG/5042/11/191, dated June 14, 2019 which requested the President of the Senior Omolowos to convene a meeting of the body to call for nomination of candidates.

Ode disclosed that consequent upon this, the meeting was scheduled for Monday, the 24th day of June, 2019 while the Secretary of the body nominated 18 candidates to contest for the stool.

In another document, titled Motion To Nominate The Eighteen Applicants Aspiring To Occupy The Vacant Stool of Olowo of Owo, the secretary of the Senior Omolowos, Chief Akinmade Akinwumi, the Usikaye of Owo moved the motion to nominate the 18 candidates being direct sons, grandsons and great grandsons of Elewokun Dynasty.

The throne of Olowo became vacant following the demise of Oba Folagbade Olateru Olagbegi III who joined his ancestors on Tuesday, April 16, this year.

As the governors from the six states in the South West converge on the Theophilus Ogulesi Hall, Opposite UCH, Queen Elizabeth Road, Ibadan today for the South West Security Summit, the center of discussion will be the security of lives and properties of the people.

As the governors, led by the Chairman of the South West Governors Forum and Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, gather to brainstorm and decide on the ways out of the ugly security situation besetting the region, it is important to highlight some of the steps already taken by the Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu administration in the sunshine state.

It is safe to say that the Ondo State Governor began the initiative for the ongoing when he organised a similar summit earlier this year as part of the efforts to tackle the security challenges in the state and create a conducive environment for investors and the people of our dear state.

Aside this, several other laudable actions have been taken so far.

They include, but not limited to the following:

* The activities of militants in the riverine areas of Ondo, Ogun and Lagos states which was very worrisome was brought to an end by the intervention of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu's administration.

Governor Akeredolu who secured the release of the kidnapped six students of Model College Igbonla, Lagos State also ended the reign of militancy in the state and by extension, the South West. This occurred in the early month of Akeredolu's administration.

* Apart from regular security meeting with all the heads of the security agencies in the state, Governor Akeredolu has donated many operational vehicles to the security agencies in the state to help them fight crimes and criminality.

* To further solve the security challenges in the riverine areas of Ondo State, Governor Akeredolu donates speed boats to the Forwarding Operation Base (FOB) of the Nigerian Navy in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.

The governor has held several meetings between the Itinerant Fulani herdsmen and host communities, especially in the Akoko area of the state.

These and many more are parts of the efforts of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s administration in keeping Ondo State safe. It's believed that the South West Security Summit will further make the South West States safe.

Olabode R Olatunde

Special Assistant (New Media) to the Governor

25th June, 2019.

I have a working governor.

This is absolutely great

His achievements over the last 2years are super impressive.

My silent achiever Governor

In its bid to improve health care service delivery in Ondo state, The Ondo state government has on 24 June 2019 commissioned the ‘Ondo state contributory health commission’

The Ondo state contributory health commission office was commissioned by the executive governor of Ondo state, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu Aketi at the state secretariat Alagbaka,Akure.

The Contributory Health Scheme is a Health System consisting of compulsory contribution and pooling of funds together to Finance Expenditure to pay for all or partly Health Services to be rendered to the beneficiary/enrollee with the purpose of providing access to affordable & qualitative health care.

Present at the commissioning are, the deputy governor of Ondo state, Mr Agboola Ajayi, the honourable commissioner for health, Dr. Wahab Adegbenro, SSA to the Gov on Health, Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye and a host of other dignitaries.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/governor-akeredolu-commissions-the-ondo-state-contributory-health-commission/

Two years ago, before the inception of the Akeredolu led administration; any honest indigene of the state must be disturbed by the crises bewildered the educational state in the state.

While we must commend the previous administration in the state for its adoption of the mega schools in the state, and its efforts to give the educational layout of the state a huge facelift. It must be emphasized that the state needed more than gigantic edifice, which did not fit into the state is traditional educational philosophy, one, which is built on making, learning attractive, and affordable.

Taking a bold step of swaying away from the mega school project in the state because it failed to attract enrolment of pupils into primary schools while most parents chose to take their wards to private schools.

According to him, the aim of establishing the schools was defeated while the facilities are wasting away. ‘On education, for years my predecessor did not believe in the type of primary schools that we have, that SUBEB or UBEC at the federal level would support. Everybody has his or her own style.

‘He felt ‘why don’t I spend money to build mega schools?’ In addition, that was good for him. However, for me, it is not something I am going to embark on because I am learning from his experience. I could see practically what mega school had suffered. The issue of attendance is very poor and some of the facilities are wasting away.

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has within the space of two years created an impeccable mark on the educational fabrics of the good people of Ondo State.

Since his inauguration as Governor of Ondo state, the governor has stayed true to his promise of making basic education easily accessible, attractive and affordable to the good people of Ondo state, bridging the gap between the rich and the poor in terms of qualitative learning at the basic level.

About 700 public primary schools in Ondo State have been renovated, while another 314 projects would be awarded very soon in various primary schools, including agricultural materials, sporting equipment and 77 containerized toilets.
Not resting on these achievements, the Ondo State government has paid N3.7 billion as counterpart funding for basic education, which was matched by the Federal Government through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) to revamp the primary education sector.

Boosting teachers’ morale, the state government recently rolled out promotion letters to 1,800 primary school teachers in the state. They were promoted after a rigorous screening exercise carried out by SUBEB.

While only the government and parents cannot manage the issues of sponsoring education, as it also requires assistance of Institutions, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Philanthropists. Huge accolades must be given to the Akeredolu led administration for putting in place a conducive system that encourages learning, by making qualitative education accessible, affordable as well as attractive in Ondo state.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/governor-akeredolu-making-education-accessible-attractive-and-affordable-in-ondo-state/

MORE PHOTOS

The Ondo State government has received delivery of its procured medical facilities.

The items are meant to aid qualitative health care service delivery in the state. This comes in the light of the Akeredolu led administration to boost primary health care service delivery in the state.

The Governor has also announced its move to upgrade the states hospitals to the mother and child hospital standard.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/ondo-state-government-procures-new-medical-facilities/

Residents of Ipele and Iyere communities, both in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo state, trooped out in their large numbers at the weekend to welcome the state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, to their communities.

The occasion was an unscheduled inspection of the ongoing road projects in the two communities by the governor and his entourage.

The highly elated residents seeing the governor spontaneously burst into various songs of appreciation, prayers and rededication to future political exploits of the present administration in Ondo State.

The governor’s first point of call was Ipele where the township road leading to Owo totaling 8.5 Kilometers was steadily ongoing, out of which 2kilometres have been asphalted.

Welcoming the governor and his entourage, some residents of Ipele including the immediate past Caretaker Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Adebayo Oke and a youth leader, Mr Bankole Balogun, appreciated the governor for fulfilling his promises to the people of the community.

The residents including women groups also used the occasion to assure the governor of their unalloyed support to enable him deliver more dividends of good governance to the people of the community and the state at large.

The story was the same on Iyere-Igbe 5Kilometres road as the people could not hold back their joy on sighting the governor with his entourage who breezed into the ancient community to inspect the ongoing road project.

During the inspection, some residents of Iyere town including Mr Jacob Ogunleye , Chief Ajibola Agunloye and Mr Rotimi Sunday commended Governor Akeredolu for alleviating the sufferings of the people in the community and its environs by giving them good road.

They equally thanked him for the completion of the Iyere dual carriage way, saying the development has eased transportation system and improved socio-economic activities in the town.

Reacting, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Raimi Aminu, urged the people to continue to support the governor so that the good works could continue in the interest of the state and development of the people.

He solicited the cooperation of the people at making the contractor work in accordance with the period of delivery.

SOURCE: https://citadelng.com/ipele-iyere-laud-akeredolu/