₦airaland Forum

Ondo State Government has expressed its readiness to participate actively in the Federal Government/IFAD/NDDC, USD10 Million Agricultural transformation Project, Life – ND
Ondo State Commissioner for Agriculture Asiwaju Adegboyega Adefarati gave the assurance while hosting the team from FG/IFAD/NDDC(L-ND) in his office in Akure.
The commissioner who expressed confidence in the ability of the state Government to pay its counterpart fund as at and when due judging by its previous performance said Agriculture is the Main focus of the Akeredolu led administration to create massive employment and poverty reduction.
“it is on records that Ondo state performed creditably well in previous project by coming first amongst the nine states that piloted the IFAD project in Nigeria”
Adefarati who gave the assurance said , the state is in better placed to perform exceedingly well in this new program especially now that the project is coming at a very critical time in the life of the current administration with a renewed vigour to achieve it agricultural policy of food sufficiency, poverty reduction and improve living standard for farmers.
Adefarati who commended the partners for being gender sensitive for allocating not less than 6O per cent of its funds to women said the wife of the Governor Betty Anyanwu- Akeredolu would extremely be happy with the development.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry Alhaji Boluwaduro Kunle Sanni while welcoming the team said the state is ever ready to accept inputs and partner federal government and development partners in all areas especially in Agricultural sector to be most agricultural productive state in Nigeria.
According to him Ondo state has displayed the political will before now and is willing to do all within its power to benefit maximally from this agricultural transformation project to the benefits of the people.
He assured the team that the state will give the FG/IFAD/NDDC L-ND the best push it deserved in order to continued to benefit from similar gestures in future.
In her response the the team leader of four man team Mrs Ngozi Ohaechesi said they are in the state to conduct interview for personnel that would manned the L- ND Project in the state.
The team is made up of officers from the Federal Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development, Federal Ministry of Finance, IFAD and Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

FOWOSO Members attend COWLSO’ s Women conference in Lagos

Members of the Forum of Wives of Ondo State Officials, FOWOSO, today join their counterparts across Nigeria to attend the ongoing 19th National Women Conference in Lagos.

The FOWOSO team was led by Dr. (Mrs) Wunmi Ilawole who represented the wife of Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu.

The 19th National women conference, organised by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials, COWLSO, with the theme, ” Unlearn, Learn, and Relearn: 21st Century Women’s Perspectives/Approach”, was held at the Eko hotels and Suites, Victoria Island Lagos with delegates from across the 36 states of the country.

In her address, wife of the Nigerian President, Mrs. Aisha Buhari noted that one of the tenets of COWLSO is restoration of value, and charged them to contribute their quotas to the realization of a better Nigeria.

Represented by the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, the Nigerian First Lady reminded the women that it is a privilege for them to be wives of government’s officials, hence, the reason they should utilise the opportunity to transform lives positively.


The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila affirmed that women were born to influence the society, noting that education is the best way to empower them.


Mrs. Sanwo-Olu exchanging pleasantries with FOWOSO members.
According to him, women’s issue goes beyond political empowerment being necessary partners in nation building and integral part of the success of any nation.

Gbajabiamila therefore assured of the readiness of the ninth Assembly to amend certain constitutional impediments to the realisation of the 30% affirmation.

The host governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for women to learn new knowledge that would enable them develop the society, and eradicate old ways of thinking that are not compatible with the 21st century approach.

Welcoming participants to the event, the Convener of the conference and wife of the Lagos State governor, Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu had stated that COWLSO, which was founded in 1974 was aimed at complementing the developmental efforts of Lagos State government.

According to her, COWLSO is committed to positively impact humanity and add value to the lives of women and children.

Also speaking, governor Dapo Abiodun of Lagos State stated that to hold a woman back is to hold a society back, noting that no democratic government should allow such.

Other dignitaries at the event were wife of the All Progressives Congress national leader, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, host deputy governor, Mr. Obafemi Hamzat, Ogun State former Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdurasak, among others.

Others were, wives of the Edo State governor, Betsy Obaseki, Ekiti State Governor, Bisi Fayemi, Nasarawa state, Zainab Haruna, Ogun State, Mrs. Abiodun, and Osun State, Kafayat Oyetola.

The wife of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu is to deliver the 7th Distinguished Guest Lecture of the University of Medical Sciences, UNIMED Ondo.

The lecture tagged ‘A Stitch in Time Saves Lives: Breast Cancer Prevention Advocacy in Nigeria’ is slated for Thursday, October 24, 2019 by 9:30am at the main auditorium of the University.

According to a statement by the Head, Public Relations Department of UNIMED, Mr. Temitope Oluwatayo, the topic is in tandem with the vision statement of the institution which is ‘to expand access to compassionate, comprehensive and high-quality healthcare for under-served population and to lead the scientific pathway for reducing the burden of disease in our society’.

“As obtained in previous Distinguished Guest lectures of the University, the programme is aimed at promoting the health and social well-being of Nigerians through engagement, outreach services and public education.”

Chief Mrs Anyanwu-Akeredolu, an aquaculturist and a philanthropist is the founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, BRECAN.

She started the nonprofit organization to raise awareness of the disease and has won awards in recognition of her work and commitment in the fight against breast cancer in Nigeria.

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has called on Vehicle Inspection Officers not to compromise standard in the discharge of their duties particularly in the current 'ember' months.

The governor made the call while playing host to a delegation of Directors/Chief Vehicle Inspection Officers from the Southwest zone of the country in his office in Akure, the state capital.

The governor who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Agboola Ajayi, while describing the role of the officers as such that has to do with safety of citizens' lives, said his administration has put measures in place to ensure safety of road users in the state.

According to him, the recent establishment of the computerised vehicles inspection center in the state would go a long way in curbing accidents on the roads, giving the condition of the vehicles as one of the major factors leading to accidents.

He stressed the need for synergy between the V.I.O and the Federal Road Safety Corps in the discharge of their duty as they have a common goal which is to safe lives of road users, saying their roles are complementary.

Also in his remarks at the event, Special Adviser to the governor on Transport, Mr. Tobi Ogunleye, while analysing the procedure for issuance of drivers license, said ninety per cent of the task are done by the V.I.O. while the FRSC takes the credit and shunck the revenue that accrued from the exercise.

According to him, in addition to ensuring safety on the roads, the office of the V.I.O had helped in increasing revenue base of the state with the raise from about three hundred and fifty as at the begining of this administration to about 1.7m per week currently.

Earlier in his address, the leader of the delegation who is the Lagos State Director of Vehicle Inspection Services, Engr. Adebayo Olusoji charged the Southwest governors on the need for deployment of technology for VIO officers for effective maning of the roads.

While describing bad roads as a major cause of road accidents across the federation, Adebayo lauded the state government on its drive on road construction in the state.

He also appreciated the establishment of the computerised vehicle inspection centre in the state, calling other Southwest state to emulate the gesture
Picutures: Olawale

The Ondo State House of Assembly has waded into the dispute between aggrieved stakeholders in Ese-Odo riverine area and the management of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).

A group, Ese-Odo Rights Vanguard (ERV) led by Mr. Eric Pere Yanyangbini, had last week in Akure, the state capital, protested alleged marginalisation against Ese-Odo stakeholders by the Gbenga Edema-led management.

The lawmakers, in a letter of invitation dated October 9,with reference no ODHA/98/397/TI/12, and signed by the Secretary, House Committee on OSOPADEC, Raphael Urouna, directed members of the group to appear before the House Committee on the commission.
In its pleas before the committee, the group said conscious steps should be taken to close the gap created by the alleged lopsided appointment and marginalisation in the commission as it affects Ese-Odo local government areas.

Ondo State Government has converted not less than one thousand five hundred and ninety seven local government workers from Assistant Technicians and Technologists to Officers cadre after five years embargo.

The converted workers were mainly those who had acquired higher certificates and had successfully passed the 2019 conversion examination.
The Permanent Secretary of the Commission, Mr Kehinde Ige while speaking at the Local Government Service Commission headquarters in Akure, the state capital, commended the magnanimity of the present government towards workers welfare since coming on board.
He emphasized that workers who are in the Assistant Technicians and Technologist cadre who had acquired higher certificate will be converted at the end of their oral interview.

The PS added that the conversion will in no small measure improve the newly converted workers’ productivity.
He said; “service of the local government workers are at the grass-root ,when they have this kind of satisfaction it will motivate them, this I’m sure will enable them put in their maximum performance to ensure efficient service delivery at their domain.”
He therefore charged the beneficiaries to put in their best and improve their productivity to justify their new status .

Some of the beneficiaries who spoke to The Hope, Mr Ajiboro Oluwatayo and Mrs Olanisinmi Bukola commended the Arakunrin Akeredolu led administration for lifting embargo on the conversion after five years.
The government have really done well by approving the conversion, we are happy to be part of the beneficiaries of the kind gesture of the government” they stated.

President Buhari arrives Sochi Russia ahead of the Russia-Africa Economic Forum on 22nd Oct 2019

Russia 2: President Buhari welcomed by Mayor of Sochi Anatoly Pakhomov and other Russian Government Officials as he arrives Sochi Russia ahead of the Russia-Africa Economic Forum on 22nd Oct 2019

Russia 3: President Buhari with Foreign Affairs Minister Geoffrey Onyeama, Nigerian Ambassador to Russia Amb. Steve Davies Ugbah, Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State and Governor Bello Matawalle of Zamfara shortly after arriving Sochi Russia ahead of the Russia-Africa Economic Forum on 22nd Oct 2019

Akeredolu is a performer, says Olugbo of Ugbo

SOURCE - NEWTELEGRAPH

The Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, has described the Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, as a performer whose performances in the last two and half years have transformed the state positively.

Olugbo, who is the chairman of the state traditional rulers Council, said the Akeredolu administration has carefully, but deliberately pursued the economic growth of the state, which he said was now impacting positively on the progress of the state.

The traditional ruler spoke in Abuja on Saturday at the African Governor Award For Innovative Leadership (AGAFIL) and the official Investiture & Conferment of AGAF honour on Akeredolu.

He said the governor has shown his passion for the progress and development of the state with the way he is pursing the establishment of the deep sea port in the state, which according to him, would give the sunshine state economic liberation.

The monarch also commended the construction of the Ore Flyover by the Akeredolu administration, describing the project as live-saving and impactful.

The Olugbo assured the people that with the massive achievements of the governor in less than 3 years, the people of the state should be rest assured of unprecedented turnaround of the state.

https://www.newtelegraphng.com/2019/10/akeredolu-is-a-performer-says-olugbo-of-ugbo/

Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Donald Ojogo has hinted that the Ore flyover would be inaugurated by December 2019 for usage by the people of the country.

The Commissioner who stated this at a media chat with journalists in his office in Akure, the state capital, added that the flyover would serve the entire country, as Ore is strategically located as a link from the South West to other parts of the country.

Mr. Ojogo described those that said the Ore flyover project was a misplaced priority as enemies of progress and that such persons, perhaps, do not have value for life, stressing that prior to the intervention of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu on the road, many lives were lost daily due to congestion and heavy traffic on the road.

He noted that the flyover as initiated and executed by the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu led administration in the state would continue to provide infrastructure development and other social amenities for the people of the state.

He, therefore challenged the opposition that wished to know the total cost of the project to visit the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, to equip themselves with facts and figures, rather than making unfounded comments about the project.

The state government spokesman further noted that the design, cost and specifications were done by the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing after the state government had approached the FG for approval for the project and it was approved for the state government to go ahead on the construction.

He noted that the state government cannot go or work against the specifications as approved by Federal Ministry of Works and Housing.

On the other hand, the Commissioner also decried the occurrence flood in some local governments in the state, especially that of Akungba Akoko, Ese Odo and Ilaje.

He described the incident as natural disaster, which is unpredictable and beyond human calculations.

He hinted that the Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, is making frantic efforts at making the environment safe for people to live and would soon meet with officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in Abuja to update them on the need for urgent intervention in the coastal areas of the state.

The government image maker said the two Committees set up by the Governor to look into the flood incidents in Ese Odo and Ilaje Local Governments have submitted their reports and same would be presented before the officials of NEMA, for necessary assistance.

He disclosed that the damaged done by the floods in the two local government areas was beyond what the state government could handle and the Federal Government needs to be on ground to assist in tackling the situation.

Similarly, the Information and Orientation Commissioner also dismissed insinuations in some quarters on the whereabout the Governor.

He said the Governor is engaged in Abuja, attending to state issues, stressing that the Governor is entitled to annual leave which he got, but had to cut it short owing to personal reasons.

While in Abuja, the Governor has attended APC Governors forum meeting, National Economic Council meeting and he also met the Deputy Governor, Head of Service and his Chief of Staff.

Mr. Ojogo added that the Governor will be receiving an award, African Innovative Leadership Award, as one of the best Governors Africa Continent on Saturday, 19th October, 2019, in Abuja.

The Ondo state micro credit scheme, is an agency under governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, administration that empowers youths, artisans, SMEs business owner through soft loan grants, to enable beneficiaries establish an existing business as well as encourage economic activities in the state.
Through this initiative, the government has shown her commitment towards the development of the socio-economic well-being of the citizenry. This great stride by the governor, has succeeded in achieving its purpose, by reaching out to the less privilege and changing lives positively.
According to Governor Akeredolu, this loan grant is designed to tackle poverty, banish hunger and create wealth for the masses. He stated that the major problem facing governments of the developing countries, including Nigeria is that of poverty reduction.
In April 2019, N54m soft loan was disbursed to traders and various associations which include, Ondo state sunshine rice, Igbo/Akure Cooperative societies, Ondo state traders, artisan groups, Nigeria union of tailors and Asegun dynamic market front. This group were the first beneficiary of the disbursement.

According to the Chairman of Ondo State Micro-credit Agency Mrs. Stella Kosemani Kolawole, the agency has succeeded in empowering not less than 1,000 Iyalaje, and Iyalojas all over the 18 local government area of Ondo state with over N50Millon.
She noted that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, is man who is full of high emotional intelligent and is judiciously using Ondo state resources to embark on peoples’ oriented projects.
The government also made the accessibility of loan through the agency easy unlike the rigorous process people undergo when accessing loan from financial institution. Each loan only attracts 9% of what is borrowed for a period of one year, which makes it easier for applicants to redeem their payment without stress and also thrive in their businesses.
As a result of its mode of application, more applicants show interest to benefit from the scheme and this administration which is determined to ensure eradication of poverty is committed to providing as much amount of loan in demand by the applicant.
The agency, as a result of too many applications from the people, disbursed N166m to association of poultry farmers, fish farmers’ association, Ondo state hairdressers and cosmetologists association in August 2019.
So far, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN has succeeded in lifting not less than three thousand people out of poverty and hunger through this empowerment scheme.
GENEVIEVE ALOZIE
TCC NEWS.

500 level Medicine and Dental students of the University of Medical Sciences, UNIMED, Ondo have started their 2nd MBBS/BDS professional Pathology and Pharmacology examination.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Friday Okonofua, FAS, FAAS accompanied by the Dean, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Prof. Simidele Odimayo visited the examination hall to observe the process.
The examination is coming on the heels of the first clinical accreditation approval of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, MDCN.
In a letter dated September 25, 2019, the Registrar, MDCN, Dr. T.A.B. Sanusi congratulated the university on the success which follows the report of the verification team to UNIMED on August 19, 2019.
‘By this approval, your University can now conduct the professional examionation in Pathology, Pharmacology and Dentistry’, Sanusi said.
Earlier, the Vice Chancellor, University of Medical Sciences, UNIMED, Ondo Prof. Friday Okonofua, who was highly elated by the development read the letter to members of staff at the Monday meeting of management and senior staff.
‘We are here for student training. If we don’t train our students and they are not moving, everybody will be depressed despite the beautiful things we may have. I am very happy that we get this accreditation for the next five years. At least any accreditation we get now will be for 5 years. During these five years, we can begin to expand our facilities so that when the MDCN comes next time, they will have no reason not to accredit us and a good foundation would be said to have been laid,’ Prof. Okonofua said.
Prof. Okonofua appreciated all members of staff for their contribution before and during the visit of the MDCN verification team.
‘I appreciate everyone, I think I was though and rough in some instances I push, some people are calling me dictator but I think we need a good dictator, dictating the right things for this country. That is what this country needs. Late Chief Awolowo once said we need benevolent dictator because if you do not push people things will fall apart. I am happy that some of us have children here, so it is also for our common good’, he added.

The Imo State Newspaper publishers INPA, is proud to honour the Imo State born first Lady of Ondo state, Arabinrin Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu a meritous Award for her unprecedented humanitarian disposition and concern for family and societal development. Today 20th September 2019 at Rockview Hotel, Owerri, Imo state.

Mrs Akeredolu is well known for her selfless service to humanity which she conveys through her initiative forum, Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu foundation (BAAF) where she displays passion for humanity as well as promotes literacy among the children through reading competition, spelling bee and essay competition.

Her passion for information communication Technology ICT, has brought her to limelight which gained her the name "Digital Mama" due to her commitment in advancing the economic status of women and nurturing the interest of the girl child in ICT and solar energy technology where she annually conducts a summer boot camp to train girls in ICT and Skill acquisitions to be resourceful in the society.

Before the presentation of the award of merit, to the wife of Ondo state governor, the Chairman of INPA,Honorable Henry Ekpe recognizes her
Excellency as an epitome of womanhood for being a backbone to her husband, the Executive governor of Ondo state Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, and for her commitment towards human capital development and empowerment.

According to Hon. Ekpe the award is a meritous one and well deserved for a woman who has brought positive changes in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.

While receiving the prestigious award by INPA, Mrs Akeredolu said "she feels l truly honored to be recognized by a well respected association with high standing reputation in unbiased news reportering"
She encouraged everyone who is committed to human development and community service never to relent as we are in world were people do not appreciate the effort of philanthropists.

She announced that all the development she has embarked on was driven by her passion for humanity, her childhood experience and upbringing.

Mrs Akeredolu was pleased to announce to the people that through her BEMORE Initiative that she has trained and empowered over 1000 girls and will continue to do so until every girl child who needs empowerment is empowered.

The event witnessed dignitaries from all works of life, ranging from Ondo State commissioner for Information Hon. Donald Ojogo, Commissioner for women affair, Titi Adeyemi, Commissioner for local government and Chieftancy affairs, Hon. Lola Fagbemi, colleagues from the prestigious University of Nigeria Nsukka, Old Girls Egbu girls secondary school, FOWOSO Women, BRECAN Imo State branch, who were there to grace the occasion.
Genevieve Alozie
TCC NEWS.

Ondo State government has warned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse vowing to take drastic measures to change the current unkempt state of certain areas of Akure metropolis.

The Permanent Secretary of the Waste Management Authority , Mrs Bola Akinyanmi said this when she led Environmental Officers on an enforcement tour around the state.
A clean and hygienic environment is important for healthy living hence the huge worry generated as a result of environmental pollution due to human activities and negligence towards their environment.

This prompted the Waste Management Authority led by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs Bola Akinyanmi to embark on sensitization of the public on proper waste disposal

Mrs Akinyanmi said that residents should endeavor to put cleanliness first and also pay their service charge as expected for proper disposal of their refuse.

A new addition to the cleanliness strategy is that residents can now write to report to the government when officers of the waste management fail to perform their duties

The wife of Ondo State Governor, Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has extended a hand of help to the families of the two sets of triplets that were born at Ikare Akoko in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State recently.

Mrs Akeredolu who was represented by the wife of the chairman of the council, Mrs Omowumi Omojola on Thursday presented baby food items worth N200,000 baby diapers and a cash gift to each set of the triplets at different locations in Ikare Akoko.

At Okeegbe street, the family of Bayegun Ojo who had the first set of triplet expressed joy for the gifts given to them, adding that it will go a long way in putting smiles to their faces.

Mr Bayegun noted that the provision of modern medical equipments at the State Specialist Hospital, Ikare Akoko, made it possible for his wife to have normal and safe delivery.

Mrs. Akeredolu encouraged the mother to embark on exclusive breastfeeding and eat balanced diet.
The wife of the governor encouraged pregnant and nursing mothers to always patronize government owned medical facilities rather than going to quacks.

She said that the government of Ondo state has invested heavily in the health sector for the benefit of the people of the state.
Responding a community leader at Ikado area of Ikare, Elder James Oladetohun commended Governor Akeredolu and his wife for their interest in Ikare which is manifesting in the dualisation of the township road and Oke-Alabojuto hill which had for long been a death trap in the town.

Oladetohun expressed appreciation for the gifts given to the triplets.

The Ondo State Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye says Workers in the State Public Service should have positive attitudinal change work and exhibit good leadership style that would bring back the dignity and lost glory of Public Servants in the state.

Mr Aragbaiye made the call during an interactive meeting with the Workers of the State Development and Property Corporation in Akure, the state capital in continuation of his reorientation meetings with Workers in government establishments.

The Head of Service, who was represented by the Permanent Secretaries of the Department of Establishment and Training, Mr Victor Olajorin and the Department of Service Matters, Mr Bayo Philip charged the Workers to support the Political Leadership of their various organisations for the overall benefit of the people of the state.

He said Workers should be conversant with the policy trust of the present administration and key into it in order to achieve proper implementation of its policies and programmes for the good of the people of the state, noting that the success of any government is determined by the attitude and commitment of its workforce.

The number one Civil Servant in the state declared amnesty for Workers who will freely come to submit vital information, government documents and Properties in their possession under the acronym ‘DLL’ “Drop it, Leave it and Let it go”, saying that any Worker found guilty through scrutiny would be sanctioned.

He equally charged Public Servants to acquaint themselves with their schedule of duty, exhibit good character and integrity, imbibe timeliness and punctuality, maintain corporate dressing and avoid drunkenness at work, fraudulent practices, irregular promotion and certificate forgery, adding that they should intimate themselves with the rules and regulations guiding their jobs as contained in the Workers handbook.
Earlier in his remarks, the Board Chairman of the Corporation, Architect Gabriel Aderomilehin commended the Head of Service for the initiative to reposition the state civil service for better service delivery which he said is long overdue.

Architect Aderomilehin noted that the Board had concentrated on changing the mindset of the Workers, restore discipline among the cadres, instill financial probity, improve the asset base of the Corporation and the Workers welfare.

He said the Corporation would soon workout modalities to implement its enacted policy to re-enter the undeveloped government land to generate revenue for the government.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has been declared as the winner of African Governor Award for Innovative Leadership (AGFIL) 2019 by an international group for his efforts in reducing poverty in the state.

The organisation, African Stride International (Media) Limited, revealed that researches were carried out in several sectors in the state through its field officers and findings showed that the governor, among other governors under view, was innovative in his approach to solving various challenges he met when he assumed office in 2017.

Addressing newsmen in Akure, the Ondo State capital, head of the organisation, Henry Adesola, noted that Akeredolu’s ability to think out of box made it possible for him to pay backlog of salaries he inherited and still embarked on capital projects in the state.

Henry Adesola, who spoke on behalf of the organisers, said the award will be formally coffered on the governor in October in Abuja.
http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Akeredolu-Bags-African-Governor-Award-For-Innovative-Leadership

The wife of the Ondo State governor, Arabinrin Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu on Tuesday took her Back-to-School initiative to Auga Akoko Community Grammar School, where educational materials were distributed to the students .

According to Arabinrin Akeredolu, the initiative which commenced in 2017 was aimed at encouraging teachers and students to take teaching and learning seriously throughout the academic session.

This year’s edition, held on the school’s field ground also featured presentation of Solayo kits to pregnant women, the distribution of incentives to teachers, and gifts to the aged.

Addressing the people of the community, the wife of the governor noted that she identified with the community, having hailed from a community that shares almost same fate with Auga in terms of lack of socio-economic and human capital development.

She noted that Auga Community Grammar School was purposely selected for the third edition of Back-to-School programme in order to ascertain the level of government’s commitment towards education in rural communities.

Arabinrin Akeredolu stressed the need for individuals, and governments to develop deliberate interest in communities, and therefore, advised Auga leaders to work collaboratively towards the progress of the community.

“The elite most especially should constitute an all-embracing Community Development Committee in order to speak with one voice and attract sustainable development projects like the established Cattle Ranch to the community.

” No quarter or section of the community must be left behind in seeking ways to develop the community. Every input from both the young and old, men and women, the educated and those without formal education would be required in achieving the desired goals of the community.

“Discrimination or marginalization in any form must not be tolerated, as these are traits that act as brick walls to the development of any community or society”, she advised.

The Alauga of Auga-Akoko, Oba Samuel Agunloye, the Asulu V, commended the magnanimity of Mrs. Akeredolu for remembering the community, noting that she is the first wife of the State governor to ever visit them in person.

He lauded her efforts to put smile in the faces of women and children across the state through her various initiatives, like BEMORE, FOWOSO, SOLAYO, among others.

The monarch, therefore, used the medium to acquaint her with some challenges confronting the community, which she promised to brief governor about.

Earlier, the Caretaker Chairman of Akoko North East, Mr. Ashimiyu Adekunle had also commended the First Lady for not defiling the insecurity situation in the area, and visited the community.

He described the Back-to-School initiative as a demonstration of her passion for education.

The school Principal, Mr. J. O Olaoye, decried the poor state of the school, including low patronage, and inadequate teaching and non-teaching staff, and appealed to the government to come to their rescue.

As part of her visit to Auga, Arabinrin Akeredolu also toured the Cattle Ranch situated in the community.

Souce link: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Mrs--Akeredolu-distributes-educational-materials-to-students

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, at a Meeting with the World Bank on Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) held in Abuja on Wednesday, 18th September, 2019.

RAAMP is saddled with the responsibility of improving rural access and agricultural marketing while strengthening the financing and institutional base for effective development, maintenance and management of rural road network.
Ondo State is one of the states set to Benefit from this World Bank assisted project .

PHOTOCREDIT: Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

Ondo State Government has enjoined businesses operators’ within and around the Akure Semi Automated Abattoir and Akure cattle Market to operates in line with the Memorandum of Understanding MOU signed with the state government.
Commissioner for Agriculture Asiwaju Adegboyega Adefarati gave the admonition at the inauguration of the Executives of the Akure Cattle Dealers’ Association within the premises of the Akure Semi Automated Abattoir.

Adefarati who underscored the place of peaceful coexistence between the various ethnic groups that made up the enjoined members of the association to continued to maintain the peace, support all the programmes of Governor Oluwaroltimi Akeredolu led administration and shun criminal tendencies.

The commissioner who lauded the peaceful transition of power from the immediate past executives to the current one said that before now it was crises upon crises adding this development must be encouraged and emulated by other associations.
According to him the inability of the different tribes operating in the cattle market to abide by the terns and conditions of succession in the MOU signed with the state government and other stakeholders in the state has always been the source of the crises.
“The MOU was between the representatives of Yoruba Cattle Dealers’ Group and those of Fulani/Hausa/Shuashua Cattle Delesrs’ Group in the market”

While appreciating the stakeholders in amicable resolution of the crises the commissioner used the occasion to reiterate government commitment to provide enabling environment that will improve their businesses as well their living standard promising that the remaining aspect of the Abattoir would soon be completed.
Earlier the permanent secretary of the Ministry represented by the Director of Veterinary Services Dr Adebayo Ehinmowo urged the members of the association to cooperate with the new leadership in order to move it to greater height.

The National President of Butchers Association of Nigeria Alhaji Ashimiyu Tella who commended the state government for constructing the Abattoir directed butchers who are still operating outside the facility to move to the place to take advantage of its facilities for their own good.
Reacting on behalf of the new executive the state Chairman Khalid Alfa Idris said his tenure will be rancour free promising to be a middle man the cattle Dealers and the Government.

While appreciating the commissioner and staff of the ministry for their support in ensuring peace reign in the association and continued deepening the cattle business in the state through progressive policies, the chairman promised members of the association will continued to give the government unalloyed support especially through prompt payment of taxes and other dues.
At the event were traditional rulers, chiefs, security chiefs and leaders of all the critical stakeholders and various ethnicities making up the Akure Cattle Dealers’ Market.

The hallmark of the carnival like event was the inauguration of the executive council by the commissioner for Agriculture Asiwaju Adefarati.

Source link: http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Operate-Within-Your-MoU--Ondo-State-Govt-Charges-Cattle-Dealers-Market-Association

It is with a deep sense of responsibility that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin OLUWAROTIMI O. AKEREDOLU, SAN joins numerous other Nigerians to congratulate our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and indeed, our dear President Muhammedu Buhari over this historic judicial victory. It is undoubtedly, a national victory for all Nigerians.

According to Governor Akeredolu, the verdict exuded a combination of very enthralling components which have contributed in no small measure, to the Nation's jurisprudence. The analytical precision as well as the near-faultless conclusions have deepened judicial. The enviable industry collectively deployed by the revered Lordships also depicts great hope for Nigeria's electoral process.

Mr Governor believes that, notwithstanding the right of the main opposition and its Presidential Candidate to test the verdict at the Apex Court, the right time for less distractions in our polity is now. This is more so that, the current security challenges require a mere passing attention but a dexterous unanimity of purpose and national amity devoid of political colourations.
Signed:
Donald Ojogo,
Commissioner for Information & Orientation

SOURCE: Independent
Akure – Ondo state has reached agreement with an Independent Power Provider, Econ Modular Solutions Limited, to power Ajebandele community in Odigbo local government area and Awoye in Ilaje local government area of the state with solar mini grid.

This is in pursuance of the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s resolve to power communities that are off national grid in the state, particularly in the Southern Senatorial District.
In separate town hall meetings with the two communities, the special adviser to the governor on Energy, Engr. Tunji Ariyomo, who was represented by the acting secretary of the office, Princess Abike Bayo-Ilawole, enlightened the constituents on the modalities of the solar mini grid power project.

At Ajebandele, the traditional head, Engr. Ipaye stated that the community had been yearning for power supply for so long as it had never been connected to the national grid in spite of the business activities in the boundary there.

He explained that after his installation as the traditional head of the community, he purchased two power generating sets to power the community.

His counterpart, Chief Happiness Abiye, the Baale of Awoye, a community on water, lamented that many agencies, including federal agency, had been to the community in the past promising to power the community but they failed to fulfill the promise.

They both expressed hope that when the power projects are completed, business activities in the communities would be enhanced.
Engr. Ariyomo, explained that the power company representatives would still come to enumerate the buildings in each community to know the capacity of the Solar mini grid that would be required to power the communities.

He charged the community heads to support and cooperate with the officials of the power company, which partnered with Savanna Energy (UK), to make their work easy.

He disclosed that each home and structure would be supplied with prepaid meter, saying the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu-led administration had given as part of the conditions that there would be no estimated bill.

The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) has solicited the support of the Ondo State House of Assembly on the speedy passage of it’s bill into law.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on ICT, Hon. Olumbe Akinkugbe while playing host to the House Committee on Education, Science and Technology in his office said quick passage of bill will enable SITA delivers on its mandates to the residents of the state as well as meet its revenue target.
The SSA explained that SITA has done a lot to put the name of the state on digital world map.

He listed some projects by the agency that has made the state proud to include Digital Village Project (DVP) Software development and upgrading of the state residency cards.
According to him, the Agency has equally facilitated the training of some industrialists, artisans & civil servants throughout the state with a view to improving productivity through the application of digital technology.

He therefore expressed the believe that quick passage of the bill into law will greatly assist the agency to implement all government policies on ICT and effective management of telecommunication infrastructure in the state.
Responding, the house committee chairman on Education, Science and Technology Hon. Toluwani Borokinni representing Akure South Constituency 1 assured the agency of accelerated passage of the bill considering it over all importance to the development of the state.

He commended the agency for its relentless efforts at increasing the public interest in the digital technology through Akure Tech Hub and software development.
Hon. Borokinni said the familiarization visit was aimed at interacting with the management of the agency with a view to taking stock & identifying its area of needs.

Welcoming the lawmakers, Permanent Secretary of the agency Mrs. Bunmi Omotola attributed the success achieved by the agency to dedication to duties by the staff.
She pledged the support of the management & staff of the agency at all times that will lead to actualization of govt policies on ICT.

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, is living up to his administration's commitment to ensure an all-round development of the state.
Many have wondered if the massive infrastructural developments being witnessed in the sunshine state have not taken all the resources and attention of the governor to develop other sectors, particularly, the health sector.

It has, however, been observed that since the Akeredolu administration came on board, there has been a paradigm shift from the old order, giving rise to critical and indelible intervention in the health sector, with the sole aim of prioritizing the healthy living of the people of the state.
Yes, the Governor may now have a new prefix- Mr. Road and Infrastructure, as a result of the unprecedented number of roads he has constructed in less than three years in office, but they may as well add Dr. because of his commitment and intervention in the health sector.

THE FACTS

* Prior to his coming into office, the Mother and Child hospital were only two, which were concentrated in the Central senatorial district of the state, with one in Ondo town and the second in Akure, the state capital.
After careful appraisal of the situation by the State Executive Council, the Akeredolu administration decided to extend the mother and child hospital to other senatorial districts.
Today, there are two in the Northern Senatorial district in Ikare Akoko and Owo. The Southern Senatorial district also has three with one in Ore, one in Okitipupa and one in Igbokoda, bringing the number to seven.


* Medical personnel is very important in the efforts at providing qualitative health care to the people of the state. Till date, the Akeredolu administration has recruited 229 medical Personnel to various Health Institutions across the state. These are:
16 Consultants
5 Dental Officers
5 Dental Technologists
5 Dental Therapists
20 Medical Record Officers
16 Medical Lab. Scientists
50 Medical Officers
95 Nurses /Midwivies
5 Physiotherapists
12 Pharmacists.

* The Akeredolu administration has procured and distributed Multi-million naira medical equipment to Primary health facilities in the state. Some of the equipment include: 300 units of Children Ambu-bag, 60 units of Adult Ambu-bag, 300 Units of Baby weighing scale, 300 Units of Blood pressure apparatus, 300 Units of Stethoscope, 301 Units of Angle poise Examination light, 18 Units of Anti - Shock garment and 300 Units of Penguin suction device among several others. This has been done twice within two and half years. Governor Akeredolu described the equipment as necessary in order to improve the diagnostic and therapeutic capacity of the primary health care facilities and respond to the health needs of the people across the state.

* Governor Akeredolu secured and has distributed $5million Biomedical Equipment and consumables. The equipment were the ones secured by the Governor during his visit to the United State of America (USA) last year from MedShare, a U.S.-based non-profit organisation in Atlanta to strengthen the state's health sector.

* The Akeredolu administration met Zero accreditation at the University of Medical Science, Ondo. Today, the administration has facilitated the accreditation of 15 Courses at the University.


* The Akeredolu administration signed into Law, the Bill establishing the University of Medical Science Teaching Hospital.

* One other intervention embarked upon by Governor Akeredolu in the health sector is the upgrade of health facilities in the state to provide quality services for children who are below age five and pregnant women.

* Ceding of the School of Nursing and Midwifery to Ondo State University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, thereby upgrading it into a degree awarding institution.
* The Akeredolu administration upgraded the Ondo State School of Health Technology, Akure to Ondo State College of Health Technology, Akure.
*These and many more.
Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
September 6th, 2019

The Ondo State Government would no longer approve the deployment and transfer of any erring Officer from non-ministerial and organisations outside the Civil Service to the main stream of the State Civil Service.
This is to curtail the infiltration of several culture that are alien to the civil service which has been negatively affecting the entire system and the productivity of the state Civil Servants.

The state Head of Service, Mr Dare Aragbaiye, who made this known while playing host to the Commissioners in the State Civil Service Commission in his office in Akure, said rather than pushing the erring Officers to the main stream of the civil service such organisations should enforce its regulations discipline the Officers.

Mr Aragbaiye stated that the state government has not been able to recruit people into the civil service due to the dwindling resources of government which is also responsible for non approval of inter-state transfer of Officers from other states to Ondo State.
While calling on Workers and Pensioners to support the state government in the fight against issues of workers absconding from their duty posts and all forms of corruption in the system, the Head of Service reiterated the commitment of Governor Akeredolu to training and retraining of Public Servants in the state to attain optimum level in the performance of their duties.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman of the state Civil Service Commission, Dr. Afolabi Adewakun emphasized the need to work in synergy with the office of the Head of Service to ensure best practices in the Civil service and enhance better delivery of government policies and programmes to the people of the state.

Dr Adewakun said the Commission would continue to interact with the Head of Service on issues bothering on the Workers interest, particularly varying aspect of their welfare that are more than payment of salary and allowances.
Other issues discussed include inter cadre transfer, conversion, promotion, discipline and recruitment among others which they said would reposition the state civil service to the path of international best practices.
Williams Oni
Media Manager
Office of the HOS

It has been done earlier this year in Akure, but People from the central and southern senatorial districts can also attend.

A great Opportunity again in Ondo state.
Giz, The Nigerian German institute(NGC), Ministry of Labour and ION bringing back “Career Path” and this time, to Akoko, Owo and Ose.

Register here : https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc7l_r7NjRPBTo5zvibb-u1mzIWtPz75WW6QgzZOf9oe_5NUg/viewform?usp=sf_link

#CareerPath
#InnovateOndo
#DevelopOndo

The Supreme Court yesterday upheld the removal of a member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, representing Okitipupa constituency II, Mr. Sina Akinwumi.

The Apex court dismissed an appeal filed by Akinwumi and thereafter upheld the judgement of the Court of Appeal sitting in Akure that set aside the election of the All Progressives Congress lawmaker.

The Supreme Court unanimously validated the issuance of the Certificate of Return to Mr James Ololade-Gbegudu by the Independent National Electoral Commission,INEC, as the authentic lawmaker representing the constituency, for winning the APC primary.
The Apex Court ordered the Speaker of the Assembly (Bamidele Oloyelogun) and the Clerk to immediately swear-in Gbegudu as the new lawmaker for the constituency.

It would be recalled that Court of Appeal sitting in Akure upheld the judgement of the State High Court that set aside the election of Akinwunmi.

The Appellate Court unanimously validated the INEC issuance of the Certificate of Return to Ololade-Gbegudu by INEC as the authentic lawmaker representing the constituency, for winning the APC primary while the commission had withdrawn the earlier one issued to Akinwunmi.
Also, the Ondo State High Court had on May 15, 2019 declared Ololade-Gbegudu as the winner of the APC State Assembly primary conducted on October 5, last year.

Ololade-Gbegudu had approached the court through his counsel, Mr Femi Emodamori, to seek an order to compel the party and INEC to recognize him as the authentic APC candidate for the constituency and not Akinwunmi, having won the party’s primary conducted on October 5, last year.

Delivering a judgement that lasted more than two hours on May 15, 2019, Justice Olabode Adegbehingbe of the Ondo state High Court held that from all evidence laid before the court by officials of the APC, documentary evidence including the primary election result sheet adduced by Counsel to the plaintiff, Mr Femi Emodamori, showed that Ololade-Gbegudu actually won the APC assembly ticket.

The Ondo state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, yesterday said his administration’s commitment to improve the welfare of the people of the state was total.
Akeredolu who spoke while receiving Ondo State executives of the All Nigerian Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, (ANCOPSS), who paid him a courtesy visit in his office, also promised to partner ANCOPSS for better welfare of workers including teachers in the state.

The governor who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Olugbenga Ale, particularly said his government would continue to fulfil all his electioneering campaign promises to the people across the state, promising not to disappoint the people who freely gave him their mandate.
This is coming as the ANCOPSS commended the governor for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of teachers in the state and infrastructural developments across the state.

According to the governor, all the achievements recorded so far by his administration in all sectors were a tip of the ice-berg, adding that more people-centered projects are still coming to further bring comfort to the citizenry.
He thanked the ANCOPSS executives for appreciating efforts of his government in all sectors at bringing development to the state and the people, stressing that government would continue to give the welfare of civil servants including teachers a priority through regular payment of salary and other emoluments.

The governor also added that all the ongoing aggressive road projects and massive renovation of schools with necessary facilities across the state would be completed in line with the electioneering campaign promises to the people.
Earlier, the state Coordinator, ANCOPSS, Otunba Adeyemo Adebisi, lauded Governor Akeredolu for the regular payment of salaries of teachers including those owed by past government as well as regular promotion of workers in the state and other encouragements given to teachers by the present administration.

Also speaking, ANCOPSS Vice President 1, Fola Ogunbade, informed the governor that the state ANCOPSS was in support of all the policies and projects of the Akeredolu-led administration in view the immense benefits and development they have brought to the people of the state.