₦airaland Forum

Miyetti Allah vigilantes in Ondo, plan to discredit us, says Akeredolu



Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has accused his political opponents of attempt to incite the people against his government, re-affirming that he was not aware of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) enlistment as vigilantes in the state.

This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Akure yesterday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Donald Ojogo, who said the government promptly reacted to the situation.

There was a widespread outcry over the co-option of MACBAN Fulani herdsmen as vigilante, who were armed and with ID card in Akoko area of the state on Monday.

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But Ojogo said: “An orchestrated campaign in respect of the above subject matter. The intention of the sponsors and their echoers is undoubtedly to discredit the administration of Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN) and ostensibly incite the people against the Ondo State government.

“It is pertinent to recall that upon the circulation of the story in the social media about the purported formation of an armed vigilance group by the Miyetti Allah, Governor Akeredolu was swift in his reaction to the development. Not only did he disown the move, if at all.

“At the risk of repeating himself, Governor Akeredolu re-affirmed the position of government on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 when he was accosted by reporters who sought further information on the matter.”

According to him, the leadership of the Miyetti Allah in the state has equally disowned the report and even provided further insights into actionable steps to deal with whoever conducts self in a manner that do not conform with the position of government.

“Succinctly therefore, the scheming media spins on the issue can only be the handiwork of divisive elements and their collaborators whose defeated desire is to de-market the Ondo State government through unfounded claims and gross mischief.

“The position of Governor Akeredolu on this matter stands. Government will not allow armed Fulani vigilante in any part of Ondo State,” he said.

Deji commends Akeredolu for construction of Mojere market concrete pavement


The DEJI of Akure oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi has commended the state Governor Arakurin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN for his initiatives to do a concrete pavement of Mojere market otherwise refers to as Ilesha garage.

The traditional ruler gave the commendation while on a visit to the market to see the level of works done in the in the premises

Deji who was represented by Aro of Akure Chief Anthony Falowo said the popular Mojere market has contributed alot to the economic development of Akure in particular and Ondo State in general especially through auto spare parts dealers

He used the forum to appreciate the concerns of Mr Governor for traders in the market over the deplorable state of the road network in the area

The visit of the traditional ruler coincided with that of inspection team of Ministry of works and infrastructure led by the commissioner Hon Saka Yusuf Ogunleye

Speaking while inspecting the progress of work done so far the commissioner assured the traders that the government is committed to making life better for all in the state.

Hon Ogunleye who said although the construction work may somehow disrupt the market activities appealed for calm as the disruptions would be for a short time

He therefore called for understanding, perseverance and sacrifice on the part of those who engage in one trading activity or the other within the premises

Also speaking the permanent secretary ministry of works and infrastructure Engr Taiwo Otun said the little delays being experienced on the project was due to incessant rainfall in the last few days.

According to him the design of the project would be strictly followed. Art work and channelisation are in progress and standard will not be compromised.

The permanent secretary said the walkways would be asphalted while the entire premises would be concretized adding that parking lots would also be provided

The work on Mojere market , which had not received attention by past government , was a directive of Mr Governor Arakurin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN following his visit to the market few months ago

The project is being handled by Direct Labour Engineering unit (DILEU) of Ministry of works and infrastructure

Arakunrin oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi is working for the progress and Brightening the Sunshine States:

ORE FLYOVER READY IN OCTOBER SAYS CONTRACTOR.

The contractor handling the Ore inter-change (flyover) Crane Burg Construction Limited has assured the government that the project would be completed and delivered by October this year.

Conducting the Ondo state Governor, Arakunrin oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN,round the site of the project, the CEO/Managing Director of Crane Burg ,Mr Gilbert Sassine Said the raining season would not disturb the pace of work at the site.

Also,the site Engineer of the project who is the regional Manager of the company, Mr Danny Mansour, said the foundation of the bridge has been completed while some of its pillars have also been raised.

He confirmed that works has started on its supper structure, just as the bridge access road at the north end has reached 50 percent completion while that of the south has reached 40 percent completion.

Mr Mansour said the platform the beams has been structured along the necessary earth work With assurance that the next stages of work would not be hindered by the raining season.
According to him ,by September this year ,all the concrete work would have been completed while the project would be delivered in October.

Reacting, Governor Arakunrin oluwarotimi Akeredolu expressed satisfaction with the quality and peace of work on the project, adding that it has begun to transform the geographical outlook of ore.
He commanded the contracting firm ,for high level of competence which has accelerated the pace of the work.
"They did well at owo,and they have given us their words that the project would be delivered as scheduled.
" You can see the walkways and all what they are doing here.It is taking shape, it has changed. For me this ore interchange has totally change now and anybody passing this place can see it ",he said.

Also,the special adviser to the Governor on infrastructure, Engineer Raimi Aminu,described the level of work done on the project by the contractor as amazing, nothing that the project which started a couple of months ago has now reached appreciable level.

Engr.Aminu who explained that whether it rains or not ,work on the supper structures which would all be concrete would continue, just as he lauded the contractor for working according to specifications.

" The contractor has also prepared a platform for the beam because we are using prepared beams. Once the beam is prepared at the same time it will be curing. By the time we finish the supper structure it will the time to put beams. One good thing the level of the road network has achieved is that with the rain,natural compaction will be occurring ",he added.
Some of the residents in the town including Mr.Ayantoye Adejumo,while narrating the harrow experiences of the road users,before the construction began, commended the Governor for saving their lives.

Mr Adejumo said many lives have been lost due to the highway, and prayed God to reward the Governor for his good job for mankind.

#ThemanAket
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#Aketiforsecondterm.

ODSG partners Facebook to train 300 MSME's on online marketing strategies

By Olusola Akinbinu


Three hundred Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, MSME's in Ondo state are being trained on effective marketing strategies using the Online media.


The training was facilitated by the state government through the Ondo State Office of Innovation and Partnerships (ION) in collaboration with Facebook Incorporation.


The training scheduled to take place in Akure and Owo, has empowered young business owners on innovative strategies to win customers, build brand reputation, influence purchase decisions in favour of their products and recognize desired organizations that could support their businesses.


The social media platforms applicable for the business training is Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp.


While declaring open the programme, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu who spoke through his Senior Special Assistant on Innovation and Partnerships, Joel Ogunsola said the training is one out of the many initiatives to drive Micro, Small and Medium Scale enterprises for development and growth in Ondo State.


According to Joe Ogunsola, these MSMEs will grow by virtue of these technical skills, it will create more opportunities for jobs, and more youths will be needed to fill the openings. As MSME's, are trained. They are empowered with the right capacity to do business as it is a very important section of the economy.


The Head of fackbook Public Policy in West and Central Africa, Adaora Ikenze, says Facebook acknowledges small businesses as the backbone of any economy and digital platforms as a powerful tool to reach the desired business goals.


Ikenze explained that 'the Boost your Business' programme has kicked off in Africa since 2017 and since then, over 50,000 small businesses owners have been trained across the continent which has helped thousands of entrepreneurs develop their social media skills and unlock new audiences.


Adaora said thehe collaboration with Ondo State office of Innovation and partnerships (ION) is making it possible to train 300 small business owners across Ondo State.


In the same veil, Mr Segun Oyetunji, CEO of Digivate 360 said the training module is targeted at MSME’s while previous beneficiaries has attested that the effectiveness of the program has helped to move their businesses higher.


He added that the offer also includes post training engagement for participants to enable them contribute more effectively to the society.


Akinmade Oluwadare and Ademeso Dolabomi, two participants who were at the event, appreciated the Ondo state government for the opportunity, saying they never knew there was so much business opportunities on Facebook.

The organizers of the program urged the participants to put in use the knowledge acquired from this innovative and informative program.

Live in Akure today,Facebook, boost your business Training.


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Prince Gbadegesin Ogunoye is New Olowo of Owo



Prince Ogunoye Ajibade Gbadegesin has emerged as the Olowo elect.

He scored fourteen votes to beat other contestants.


Gbadegesin is a civil servant.


Those screened are Princes Ogunoye Akinola Olawamide, Ogunoye Philip Adegoke Adegbite, Olatunde Aragun Ogunoye, Ogunoye Adekolajo, gunoye Olanrewaju Adelotan, Ogunoyeyi 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.


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.

ODSG COMMENCES LAND BANK SCHEME FOR AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES

Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, says his administration has concluded plans to commence the ware -housing project of lands for agricultural purposes through Ondo State Land Bank Scheme.

The scheme which is novel in this part of the world will encourage communities and individuals land owners to release their lands in trust to the State on lease arrangement in order to make lands easily accessible and available to genuine and serious investors willing to take advantage of vast agricultural opportunities in the state.

Governor Akeredolu disclosed this at the inauguration of the National Executive of Cocoa Farmers Association ofIn Nigeria CFAN, in AKURE.

Represented by the commissioner for Agriculture, Adegboyega Adefarati, the governor said the scheme was put in place to address perennial shortages of cultivatable lands for agricultural purposes and to encourage more people to go into farming.

Akeredolu who reiterated the commitment of his administration to improve the livelihood of farmers said government has commenced the process of awarding more than 60km of feeders roads, linking the various farm camps and villages to enable our farmers move their produces to the markets without hitch.

While challenging the new executive of CFAN to put in place measures that will encourage youth to be interested in cocoa plantation in order to continue the tradition as the leading cocoa producing State in Nigeria, the Governor enjoined cocoa farmers across the state to take advantage of the ongoing free distribution of improved cocoa seedlings by Ondo state Ministry of Agriculture to grow their farms and increase their earnings.

He also enjoined farmers to key into the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN N200bn lifeline to all tree crops farmers in Nigeria at a single digit interest rate which will soon commence.

Governor Akeredolu described the CBN offer which came out of several negotiations and high wire politics as the best offer money can buy for the development of this strategic sector.

Earlier in his acceptance speech the National President of CFAN Comrade Adeola Adegoke appreciated the founding fathers of the association such as Dr Bode Olowoporoku and Henry Akingbulugbe for their examplary leadership.

He said his leadership is poised to take cocoa business to a new height in the next four years through tackling the challenges of increasing global warming and heat waves using irrigation, working with State actors to improve road network, water supply, health facilities, electricity and taming the menace of herdsmen.

While commending Ondo State government for approving the distributions of free improved cocoa seedlings, the new President of CFAN promised to embark on registration of cocoa farmers across the State, improve agro inputs supply and works assiduously towards raising the quality of cocoa being produced in the State through deliberate value addition.

It’s Ondo’s turn to produce NDDC MD – Youth Council begs Buhari

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to revisit the appointment of the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Briefing newsmen in Abuja on Tuesday, the council appealed to the president to help correct the appointment, which to it, negated the NDDC Act.

This is even as the youth council argued that, in accordance to the NDDC Act, it was the turn of Ondo State to produce the managing director of the commission.

Blessing Akinlosotu, General Secretary of the council, explained that the Act stipulates that the MD should be appointed on a rotational basis, starting with the largest oil producing state.

He said the Ondo was the fifth largest producer of oil after Akwa Ibom, Delta, Rivers and Bayelsa, all whom, he noted, had produced the NDDC managing director.

“It seems as if the other five states of Ondo, Edo, Abia, Imo and Cross River were just playing slaves to the first four.

“Section 12(1) of the NDDC Act states that “there shall be for the Commission, a Managing Director and two Executive Directors who shall be indigenes of oil producing areas starting with the member-state with the highest production quantum of oil and shall rotate amongst member-states in order of production.

“This clear and unambiguous provision of the NDDC Act means that every member-state shall produce the MD of the commission in a rotational manner, following a sequential order that uses the quantum of oil production starting with the state with the highest production,” he said.

Akinlosotu added that although the section that provides for the appointment of chairman was clearly stated in alphabetical order of the names of the state, the position of MD was not cast in stone as production quantum among states could vary.

He stressed that the appointment of Ibim Semenitari from Rivers state in 2016 in acting capacity for 10 months was strange to the Act that set up the NDDC.

The general secretary further noted that the current MD of the commission, who is also in acting capacity, was also benefiting from the misnomer.

He therefore appealed to President Buhari to revert to the Act and appoint the next MD from Ondo state, being the fifth highest oil producing state and next in line, according to the dictates of the law.

“Respecting the principle of rotation enshrined in the Act in the selection of the MD in the “Fifth Governing Board of the NDDC means an indigene of the fifth highest oil and gas producing member-state should be appointed the next MD.

“It is important to state again that the establishment of the NDDC is to correct the previous imbalances and injustice in resource allocation as well as community representation in the previous commission.

“Therefore, it is imperative not to create a negative impression in the minds of the people and be healed of the wounds of previous marginalisation and imbalance in the sharing of the dividends of their God-given resources.

“The next MD must, therefore, be an indigene of the state with the fifth highest oil and gas production quantum in conformity with the NNDC Act (as amended), and that is Ondo State.

“We use this opportunity to passionately appeal to Mr President to help us correct the anomalies of the past by appointing an indigene of Ondo State as the Managing Director of NDDC in this ‘Next Level’ government,” Akinlosotu said.

NAN

Ondo State Ministry of Finance, emerges best in South-West

The Ondo State Ministry of Finance under Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu-led administration has been declared the best among the states Ministries of Finances in the South-West of Nigeria.

The Executive Director, Center for Peace and Self Value Re-orientation, Mr Oyibo Abraham disclosed this during the induction and presentation of 2019 integrity stewardship award to the state Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Akinterinwa in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Abraham, who led a delegation to pay a courtesy visit on the commissioner said ” For scoring 80% cumulatively in ten sectors of assessment, Akinterinwa has been declared as ‘an outstanding leader in service”.

He noted that the commissioner has displayed an ethical leadership, Development policy percormance, public accessibility, servicom compliance, Commitment to start government transformation agenda, attitude against corruption and obedience to the rule of law.

While condermning any leader that has no respect for the rule of law, the youths and the poor masses, Abraham charged Akunterinwa to ensure that there is adequate policy frame work in harnesing and developing economic policies of the state

This, he noted will guarantee the obedience to the rule of law and the enhancement of economic and social welfare of the citizenery.

Abraham who appreciated the commissioner for thinking right, acting ethically and serving as an advocate of good governance described his organisation as resolute, determined and committed to an ideal of democracy.

In reaction, the state Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Akinterinwa appreciated the organisation for recognising him and his ministry including the state in particular

Akinterinwa attributed the ministry’s excellent performance to Akeredolu led administration which he said has created an enabling environment for the civil servant to perform their duties deligently.

He said the state and the Ministry in particular will not relent in excellent performance in ensuring that corruption is eradicated out of the system.

The Permanent Secretary. Mr Gbenga Adelayi who was in Attendance, noted that the state is managing what ever comes from the federal allocation to ensure that dividends of democracy get to the grassroots.

The commissioner was not only inducted as ” Service Ambassador” but was also presented ” Certificate of integrity stewardship” and declared as ” An outstanding leader in service”

Ondo State hits N1.7b IGR monthly

The Land Use Charge (LUC) in Ondo State has registered a huge support from the people of the state thus shoring up its Internally Generated Revenue to N1.7billion in June this year as against N1.5 billion last reported.

The Chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Tolu Adegbie who gave the figures said if the trend continues, the State IGR may hit N4.5billion monthly in few years time.

He said that schools, corporate organisations, individual property owners have now bought into the scheme by signifying interest to pay the LUC and PAYE.

“Every day, we get letters from companies, schools, organisations voluntarily coming to pay LUC and their PAYE and to be part of the process on their own volition. The response has been very encouraging, only few people are not paying.

“Most of our efforts are yielding results and people are propelled because they can see transparency and that what the Governor is using the money for is right.

Allocation from Federation Account to the state keeps going down yet projects have not stopped and the Governor has not borrowed money from anywhere,” he affirmed.

He noted that sustainability of the trend is very important so that in a few years, the state could conveniently pay her workers’ salary and execute projects without waiting for allocation from the federation account.

According to him, any state that want to have economic development must focus on sustainability of its income. “Sustainability is, the key,” he posited.

Adegbie said there is a masterplan for the economic growth of the state which requires continuity in governance, citing the example of Lagos State which he said has recorded sustainable level of economic growth and development.

Realizing the fact that for an organization to succeed, its management must look at people who are doing well in that sector and how they are doing it. Adegbie said he and his team understudied Lagos and Kwara States taxation system and thereafter designed a model for Ondo State.

He disclosed that the agency made some recoveries between June and December last year from some organizations operating in the state totaling N5.7billion while assuring that the tempo will be sustained.

His words: “As we speak, we are supposed to generate N29billion, this is the set target for this year. By the grace of God, we will keep moving on. Any state that wants to have socio-economic development must focus on sustainability of its income.

“Look at the growth in IGR in Lagos State, it has been sustainable for over a long period, so, that is our model. The recoveries are there, but at the same time, we are growing our capacity for the regular tax.

“ For instance, an organization that has terminal oil well in Ondo State and has not paid tax to the state government in the past 10years. Another one has not paid tax to the state government in the past 20years. So we went after all of them and the one that has not paid tax for the past ten years started paying and from them alone, we got over a billion naira . They are still owing us backlog of arrears of tax which they promised to pay soon”.

Adegbie who averred that citizens have the right to demand for projects from government in their respective areas only when they have fulfilled their civic responsibility of tax payment noted that tax evasion is inimical to development.

“If you do what is right, you can ask questions, and honestly in Ondo State, we have been blessed with a governor that is result oriented. It is not because I am working for him, it is what we can all see, that actually, this money is being spent on what is right.

“Federal allocation is going down, yet projects are going on. So, how is it being done, it is the ingenuity of the state government, it is the taxes of people who have continued to cooperate with the government.

“So if we have a governor that is doing the work as it should be done, we should provide that sustainability to help the state develop and equally enhance strong foundation.

“Taxation should be marathon as government’s developmental plan is a marathon. If you travel abroad, you will see that they keep developing, development does not stop, it is the ripple effect of citizens’ compliance with taxation policy”.

Adegbie noted that the law on Land Use Charge was passed in 2014 and that the tax is to be charged on all land users across the federation while states like Lagos had long commenced the implementation of the policy.

On efforts of the agency at checkmating corruption among revenue collectors in the state, Adegbie affirmed that it uncovered about 25 cases of diversion of collected revenues in year 2018 while stressing that perpetrators of the offence were made to pay back the diverted funds.

He added that the concerted efforts of the agency also resulted in the discovery of a cartel of revenue fraudsters who were subsequently apprehended and handed over to the police for prosecution.

“People came to us, a lot of schools complaining that they paid Land Use Charge to some people who came and said they are staff of OSIRS and they wrote down their names and telephone numbers and they paid Land Use Charge to them.

“When the new Land Use Charge started in August and we got to them, they said they had paid, and there was no receipt to that effect, then the tax payers produced their (Officials’) telephone numbers and how much each person collected, we confirmed from them and each of them said they would bring the money, claiming that they were just keeping it for the payers and they quickly returned the money, even with the money they collected in 2017.”

He averred that such corruption cases have drastically reduced as feedbacks he gets daily from the fields indicate that revenue collectors now embrace transparency in all their activities.

Adegbie however solicited the continued cooperation and support of Ondo State residents in tax payment in order for the agency to achieve a sustainable tax level.

Governor Akeredolu's massive road projects commedable- Hon. Saka Yusuf


Under the Oluwarotimi Akeredolu led administration Ondo state has become one of the states that can boast of good road network infrastructure across the 18 local government areas of the state.

This great unbeatable achivement of Governor Akeredolu has attracted tourists from outside the state as well as both local and international investors to the state.


Some Commissioners and special advisers in company of the commissioner for works and infrastructure, Hon Saka Yusuf Ogunleye inspected some ongoing roads construction projects in Ondo state.


They inspected Ifon/Ipele road project, Owo/Ikare Road project, Ikare Township Road project, Ikaramu/ Akunnun road project among others.


The commissioner while addressing newsmen said the works of Governor Akeredolu especially in road construction is next to none.

He said due to the Governor's massive achievement in the area of road projects across the state, the people of ondo state will remain grateful to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu even in years to come.


He said only a Governor with the people at heart will embark on a project meant for the federal government.

OSUN SUPREME COURT JUDGEMENT: GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU'S WIFE PAYS SOLIDARITY VISIT TO THE OYETOLAS

Following the supreme court ruling which upheld the victory of Mr Adegboyega Oyetola at 22 September 2018 gubernatorial election in the of Osun, wife of Ondo state governor, Her Excellency, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu,
has congratulated the first family of the state of Osun on their victory at the apex court of Nigeria.

Speaking in Osogbo, the sunshine state first lady who is also the Chairman of the South West Governors' Wives Forum said she was in the state to show solidarity to her Osun counterpart in the spirit of love and integration which are the major focus of the forum.

Mrs Akeredolu described the ruling as "victory at last" for the All progressive Congress (APC) family and expressed confidence that Governor Oyetola and his first lady will now strategize for the much desired dividends of democracy in the state for both the men and women folks.

Receiving the visiting first lady, the wife of the the governor of the state of Osun, Her Excellency, Mrs Kayafat Oyetola expressed gratitude to Mrs Akeredolu for the visit, which according to her was the the first among the first ladies in the zone.

Mrs Oyetola described their litigation journey as "turbulent" and enjoined the people of the state of Osun to expect a lot of empowerment and developmental programs from the Oyetola led government in the state.

Mrs Akeredolu who was accompanied by the members of Forum for Wives of Ondo State Officials, FOWOSO, was received by Governor Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola of the state of Osun, Wives; of the Secretary to the state government, Head of service, APC state Chairman.

Others were, the former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Iyaloja general, some traditional rulers and other government officials.

ODSG distributes 250,000 cocoa seedlings to farmers

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://citadelng.com/odsg-distributes-250000-cocoa-seedlings-to-farmers/

Akure Airport Management Appreciates Akeredolu Over Impressive Patronage

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.

� Blessed Michael

Sunshine Integrity Movement Flags off Support for Akeredolu's 2020 Reelection.


Sunshine Integrity Movement (SIM) support group for governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, reelection, led by Prof. Olu Aboluwoye amidst other representatives across all works of life, today Wednesday 3rd july, at NUJ press conference hall pledged their support for Akeredolu's reelection.

During the press conference, the chairman and the leader of this group, Prof Aboluwoye, said his interest for seeking for the reelection of governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, is born out of the personality, which he said that Akeredolu is a man of integrity who does not play politics with his words.

He said amidst the governor's giants strides of achievement, that he is the only governor in Ondo state, that has promoted the civil servants to level 15 which was given as an award of disengagement by his predecessors.

Also noting the governor's achievement, the chairman quoted that 420 schools has been awarded to contractors through SUBEB project. Also he resuscitated the 69 lecturers who where sacked by the previous government as unionist and has paid them off all accumulated salaries owed.
Prof. Aboluwoye, said the governor is a man who does not stop other people's progress. He reminded the people that Sunshine Integrity Movement is not an APC forum but a body of concerned individual who work together for the progress of Ondo State.

He urged everyone present to work together and ensure that governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, gets reelected for second term.

According to Ondo state commissioner for budget and strategy, Pastor Emmanuel Igbasan, he said Akeredolu is a man of honesty, who does not bend words to suit his supporters but rather does the needful for the benefit of all. He recalled a situation when the chief lman of Ondo state requested that some Muslim members should be sponsored to Meca for Hajj, the governor refused but rather invested the money in building of lslamic schools.

Pastor Igbasan, also acknowledged Akeredolu's efforts in Agricultural development. According to him, Ondo state has the biggest Cassava-Ethanol plant in Nigeria.

He urged that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, should be reelected for second term, since he is laying a good foundation for the future of Ondo state.

Alozie Genevieve
The Campaign Concourse (TCC)

Source: https://citadelng.com/sunshine-integrity-movement-flags-off-support-for-akeredolus-2020-reelection-bid/

WORLD BANK COMMENDS KAMOMI AKETI WATER SCHEME AS GOVT REPAIRS 955 BOREHOLES.

The World Bank Mission in Nigeria has applauded the Ondo State government’s adopted model of hand pump boreholes rehabilitation under Kamomi Aketi water scheme aimed at bridging the access gap in the rural water supply and sanitation in the state.

The World Bank Mission led by Senior Water Supply and Sanitation Specialist, Mr. Anthonio Rodriguez Serrano who visited the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, specifically commended the governor for his Kamomi Aketi water scheme which has provided water access to rural communities across the state, saying the team was impressed by the development.

He revealed that the team was in the state to know and learn from the laudable experience which has been adopted as a model by Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

So far, Kamomi Aketi water scheme through RUWASSA has repaired no fewer than 955 hand pump boreholes to the rural communities across the state.

Anthonio also said World Bank was also looking at how to assist the country to address issue of open defecation through provision of water scheme.

He added that, the World Bank through the federal ministry of water resources is providing the sum of 350 million dollars to support the water project across the country.

He particularly lauded the state for being one of the states that signed the P-Wash protocol and government’s various efforts aimed providing water to the rural communities.

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu while welcoming the team to the state, said when his administration came on board over two years ago, water project has been one of the focus of his administration.

He added that before he came in record had it that there were so many abandoned boreholes across the state which needed to be rehabilitated while so many other areas were not even covered at all.

Akeredolu disclosed that since the intervention of his government through RUWASSA, the people of the state have continued to feel the positive impact of RUWASSA through the provision of drinkable water in every nook and cranny of the state, just as he lauded the chairman of RUWASSA and her team for the harmonious working relationship which has made the wonderful job easy for them.

He noted that the development has also impacted on the health of the citizenry as they are now getting water from the pump as against the stream which is not hygienic.

He further hinted that the government, through the provision of rural water supply, sanitation and hygiene is also making the state open defecation free.

Akeredolu further solicited the support of the World Bank in the project. He also used the occasion to appreciate the support received from the Federal Minister of Water Resources.

He said his administration signed the P-Wash protocol because his government believed in importance of water to mankind, saying clean water is life.
The representative of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, Mrs Ajia Jummai Umar Wakaso noted that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources established the P-Wash Programme called Partnership for the expanded rural water supply, Sanitation and hygiene as an intervention programme to deliberate look at the rural water supply, sanitation and hygiene for support.

“Thereafter, the P-wash programme was launched in November 2016 by the vice president, Yemi Osinbajo. Following the launch, only 23 states in Nigeria signed into the P-Wash protocol for which Ondo state is one and since then the Federal Ministry of Water Resources has been piloting the programme,” she said.

Ondo rehabilitates 500 primary schools

To make learning attractive and conducive for pupils in Ondo State, the state government is set to rehabilitate another set of primary schools in the state.

The State Chairman, Universal Basic Primary Education Board (SUBEB), Princess Oladunni Odu made this disclosure while speaking with The Hope in Akure.

She said at the last count, over five hundred primary schools have gone through complete overhauling in the three Senatorial Districts of the state.

The SUBEB boss maintained that what the state government is doing in the primary education sector is not just putting on structures, but putting a structure with befitting staff room, toilet and playing ground that will attract pupils to primary schools in the state.

She added that the state government has spent fortune in the sector by constructing fence round the rehabilitated schools to ward off miscreants and protect the pupils from any harm.

Odu added that the governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has passion for education in the state, reason he has resolved to make primary schools attractive in the state.

Her words:” In the next two or three weeks, another set of project on rehabilitation of primary schools in the state will commence. We have been given approval and it is what I am presently addressing. We have completed over five hundred primary schools’ rehabilitation in the state. What we are doing is to complete rehabilitation of schools with good staff room, good classrooms, toilet, playing ground, borehole and fencing the schools.”

“We have also given approval to schools in the state to embark on agriculture; this we think will boost food production in the state.”

Speaking on the welfare of primary school teachers, Princess Odu said that the present government has done much in that aspect, promising that the government is ready to do more.

“It gladdens one’s heart that the state government has been paying the salary of teachers as at when due and it is willing to do more as the economy of the state improves.

“Our teachers should reciprocate this kind gesture by putting in their best to impact knowledge on the pupils”.

On monitoring, she disclosed that the board will monitor teachers this year to ensure that they put in their best performances.

Source: https://citadelng.com/ondo-rehabilitates-500-primary-schools/

Ondo State Government partners Northumbria University on STEM Education

Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education in Ondo state is set to get a boost following a partnership of the state government, the Northumbria University, United Kingdom and STEMRES Learning Initiative.

The partnership is facilitated by the Ondo State Office of Innovation and Partnerships.

At a meeting with the Ondo state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Femi Agagu, the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Innovation and Partnerships, Joel Ogunsola said the partnership will shore up the capacity of tutors across the different cadres of educational institutions in the state on STEM.

Leader of the visiting Northumbria University, delegation, Dr Opeyemi Ajayi promised more collaboration with the state government to promote effective teaching of science and technology in the state.

Also speaking, another member of the delegation and Outreach Specialist at Northumbria University, UK, Joey Shemell said the partnership will facilitate training of selected science teachers from primary and secondary schools in the state on strategic approaches to breaking stereotypes in the teaching of STEM.

In his response, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Femi Agagu said Ondo state government will continue to deepen its partnership with national and international partners to expand the frontiers of science and technology education in the state.

He said the present government’s commitment to education, science and technology has led to lots of award and laurels won by school children in the state on STEM, even outside the country.

Agagu expressed hope that the collaboration with Northumbria University will further help to record more success on STEM as well as gender equality and digital technology education.

The visiting team later organised a workshop session for science teachers from primary and secondary schools in Akure South local government area to help deconstruct stereotypes on STEM, as well as understand innovative approaches to make it interesting for school children.

One the instructors from STEMRES Learning Initiative, Peter Sanchez led a practical demonstration session on science craft with cardboard paper, emphasizing that creativity is the most essential element in the teaching of STEM.

Some of the participants, Mrs Ayeni, a teacher at Christ Anglican Primary School, Akure and Mrs Olanipekun Olamide-Kofoworola, a chemistry teacher at St Louis Girls Secondary School, Akure, appreciated the opportunity to learn new approaches to deliver on their job, the knowledge of STEM.

Source: https://citadelng.com/ondo-state-government-partners-northumbria-university-on-stem-education/

Cannabis: From bad to good

When the news broke that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu went to Thailand with the Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Colonel Muhammad Abdullah (rtd.) to study how Cannabis (also known as marijuana/Indian hemp) can be put to good use, it marked a turning point in the discussion about the herb in the nation.

The programme they went to study was: “Medicinal Cannabis Extract Development.” The story actually divided the nation into the for and against camps, as people weighed in on the issue.

Some people, in a knee jerk reaction lampooned the governor for even thinking of such a thing. They think the idea will become a slippery slope and we would be in danger of having everyone getting high on the streets and the psychiatric hospital would become overwhelmed as a great number of people lose their minds to the free accessibility of the narcotic on the street. In their minds, what the governor is talking about is akin to legalising the wide use of the illicit herb by all who want to smoke it.

The ‘bad’ of cannabis is the basis for the legal framework mandating the curtailing of the cultivation and use of the substance because of its psychedelic (mind altering) effect. This necessitated the establishment NDLEA, which has been at the forefront of the fight against the cultivation and the distribution of the narcotics.

Ondo State is known as the largest cannabis producer in Nigeria, and NDLEA has been in a running battle with cultivators, sometimes leading to loss of lives of its officers.

But in the wake of the Ondo State Governor’s visit to Thailand, many positives have been brought to the fore about cannabis, specifically about the health benefits of cannabis oil, and its economic potentials. And the government is saying that with a controlled cultivation of a special strain of cannabis, specifically for the oil, the country would be tapping into a gold mine.

Scholars from the Adekunle Ajasin University, Fadero Oluwafemi and Olaseyo Toyosi, in a write-up said that Marijuana for many years was harvested primarily for its strong fibres employed in the production of pots, ropes, cloths, bags, ship sails, bread. Other uses include as a renewable energy carrier production and consumption, its biomass as source of energy, as biogas substate, as bioethanol substrate. This is apart from the many possible health benefits.

Information from government sources reveal that there are companies that are lined up, ready to set up factories where cannabis oil will be extracted, taping into its multi-billion dollars global market.

The economics of the new proposal which would necessitate the ending of the wholesale vilification of the product came to the fore when senior officials of Nigeria Prisons Service paid a visit to Governor Akeredolu.

They were on a five-day study tour of Ondo State, with the theme: “Commercial cannabis growing in Ondo State: A panacea for ecnomic emancipation from over dependence on federal allocation.”

They were informed during their training that cannabis have benefits in 71 chronic ailments and would go a long way to reduce dependence on oil as a source of foreign exchange for the country.

The leader of the 28-man group, Acting Assistant Controller General of Nigeria Prisons, Mr. Benson Oluwayiopese said: “We were told in this training that it should be restricted as it was done in Thailand. It must not be grown widely, but restricted. We were also made to understand that in Thailand, the type of cannabis the state Government advocates is not the type of marijuana that causes mental derailment.

“We were told that a litre of cannabis oil goes for thousands of dollars. I just want to advice that if government can buy into the idea, it would move the economy forward.”

Source: https://citadelng.com/cannabis-from-bad-to-good/

Live on Southwest Security Summit in Ibadan Oyo state:

SPEECH delivere by The Chairman Southwest Governors Forum Arakunrin oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi.

Our collective goal should be the security of our space and the safety of our people.
There is should be NO Compromise.
We must be proactive in dealing with security issues

We must join hands together to fight Cultism, banditry, kidnap, armed robbery and other criminal activities

We must take the issue of Security very seriously especially now that we are faced with a high spate of insecurity threats to the Region

Our people are in palpable fear on the rise of kidnap and insecurity in the Region. My Colleagues and I have resolved to work together to make sure the Region is safe and secure for all

Our collective goal should be the security of our space and the safety of our people.
There is should be NO Compromise.
We must be proactive in dealing with security issues

"The Ondo State Security Summit produced a Security Policy Document for the State. This document considers the current situation and suggests ways through which the problems can be tackled" Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN.

" Our administration has exhibited sufficient political will which leaves no one in doubt of its readiness to confront the challenges headlong" Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN.

Ondo State Security Policy Objectives:
1- Ensuring Public Safety
2- Preserving Domestic peace and safety.
3- Protecting Public Assets
4-Sustaining Economic Prosperity
5-Maintaining democratic institutions and national values.

" This administration believes in the drastic reduction in crime rate through identification and analysis if long term and short term risks with a view to eliminating them" -Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN.


#DAWNSecuritySummit
#SWsecuritysummit

Source: https://citadelng.com/our-collective-goal-should-be-the-security-and-safety-of-our-people-akeredolu-tasks-stakeholders-at-the-southwest-security-summit/

Fayemi, Akeredolu, Other South West Governors hold Security Summit in Ibadan Today.

Following the ugly trend of insecurity in the South West region of the country, State Governors from the region, under the aegis of South West Governors Forum, will tommorow hold a security summit in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The South West Governors Forum, led by its chairman, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, who doubles as the convener, will be bringing together all relevant stakeholders to deliberate on the worsening security situation in Yoruba land.

The summit is coming on the heels of a state security summit, organised by the Akeredolu administration in Ondo State earlier this year.

The summit is expected to address issues bothering on the challenges associated with kidnapping and other worrisome security issues across the South West.

The event will come up on Tuesday, 25th June, 2019, at the Theophilus Ogulesi Hall, Opposite UCH, Queen Elizabeth Road, Ibadan.

Reconditioned vehicles to save ODSG N5.4b

About 284 unserviceable Toyota Hilux vehicles of the Ondo State Government have been contracted to a local firm to be reconditioned and brought back new.

The idea which is estimated to save the government about N5.4 billion was informed by the desire to prudently manage the state’s scarce resources and as well get optimal value.

This development came to the fore when the chairman of Logical Ideas Limited, the local firm handling the job, Chief Wole Okunnuga handed-over five remolded vehicles out of the 284 grounded to the state Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu.

Okunnuga said the refurbishment exercise carried out on the vehicles and others to be delivered in batches involved total overhauling, changing of engines and working systems.

Okunnuga who added that the refurbished vehicles are easy to maintain also stressed that it would impact on the state by reducing wastage.

While pledging a two-year guarantee on the reconditioned vehicles, Okunnuga said the current market price of each of the Hilux Vehicles is about N25million whereas the cost of reconditioning grounded vehicles back to new is N6 million.

In his remarks, Governor Akeredolu, said it was a great day for the state as his administration was creatively thinking outside the box by reducing wastes and cutting cost of governance considerably.

Akeredolu noted that the realities of the current time do not favour purchase of brand new vehicles every year when there were lots of vehicles that can be reconditioned and brought back to new.

He appreciated the Logical Ideas for engaging local artisans in the processes of bringing back the vehicles to new.

“These vehicles were dead and completely grounded before. Most of them had no tyre or engine. But now they have been brought back to life,” the governor stressed.

The governor assured that his administration would continue to work towards making life more enduring for the people despite paucity of funds.

Also, the Secretary to the State Government, Ifedayo Abegunde, commended Governor Akeredolu for his passion at making Ondo State function effectively, disclosing that his office would organise maintenance workshop for government Drivers who would be driving the vehicles.

Abegunde said the workshop was necessary to enable the State Government get adequate value for the money spent on the vehicles.

Educationist applauds Akeredolu, tasks stakeholders on funding

An educationist and Principal of St Thomas’ Anglican Comprehensive High School, Akure, Mrs Bimbo Isatayo has tasked Stakeholders on the need to join in the funding of education to better the lives of Nigerian students.

She applauded the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for prompt payment of teachers salaries which she said encouraged the teachers to be more responsible to their duties.

Mrs Isatayo spoke in an interview with The Hope, in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Isatayo said issues of sponsoring education cannot be managed only by the government and parents, but also requires assistance of Institutions, Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Philanthropists .

She noted that stakeholders can assist in areas of infrastructural development of schools as well as supplying instructional materials to ease development of education and enhance performances of the students in external examinations

Her words: ” With the current economy, these cannot be achieved by the government and parents alone, because some parents are so poor that they cannot pay the little developmental levy they are supposed to pay to the school, we need agencies to assist in many other areas”.

She also noted the important role parents need to play in areas of getting necessary textbooks, ensuring proper dressings and monitoring of the students to ensure that they attend school punctually and not leave educational development to the government and teachers alone.


While imploring students to be more studious and be good ambassadors of their schools, she appreciated the donor NGO which gave 30 bicycles to outstanding students whose homes were far from the school to ease their transportation problem.

Insecurity: Southwest stakeholders meet tomorrow in Ibadan

Stakeholders in South-West Nigeria would tomorrow converge on Ibadan, Oyo State capital to deliberate on the way out of security challenges in the area.

Chairman of South-West Governors’ Forum who doubles as Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu made this disclosure yesterday at the 17-year-anniversary of Prayer Centre Church of God.

Akeredolu decried upsurge of criminality particularly kidnapping and armed robbery in the area promising that solutions to the menace was in sight.

Akeredolu appreciated the religious leaders for their prayers for leaders, just as he solicited for more support and prayers to end the activities of the Fulani herdsmen.

Meanwhile, South West governors have been challenged to urgently find a lasting solution to the incessant herdsmen attacks in the region.

Two clerics, Prophet Samson Oluwamodede, founder of Prayer Centre Church of God, Akure, and the Very Reverend Olufemi Adeleke, the presbyter and administrator, Methodist Cathedral Church, Gbogi, Akure, in separate sermons yesterday appealed to the governors in the region to call a stakeholders’ meeting with a view to tackling the ugly trend to ensure the security of lives and property of the citizenry.

Prophet Oluwamodede in his sermon at the 17th anniversary of the church entitled, “Righteousness exalts a nation”, also stressed the importance of righteousness and truthfulness among leaders and followers to promote peace and move the country forward. The theme of the anniversary was “Rock of Ages “.

He said something urgent should be done to address the menace of Fulani herdsmen which he said has become rampant and a major issue in the region.

The cleric also commended the state governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for being truthful in his approach to governance, saying the governor would only tell you what he would do without making empty promises.

The governor had earlier attended the 70th birthday thanksgiving service of Sir Patrick Adedapo-Aisida at the Methodist Cathedral Church, Gbogi, Akure, where incessant attacks by Fulani herdsmen took the central stage.

In his sermon at the church, the Very Reverend Olufemi Adeleke, called on the South West leaders to critically look into the ugly situation with a view to put an end to it in the interest of the safety of the people in the region.

Rev. Adeleke also advised Nigerians to always support security agents with vital information that would lead to the arrest of the evil perpetrators.

He equally encouraged Nigerians to remain dedicated to God and their place of birth.

While rejoicing with Sir Patrick Adedapo-Aisida on his 70th birthday anniversary, the man of God, described him as a man who recognized the importance of God in his life.

Also, Governor Akeredolu while congratulating the celebrant on the occasion of his birthday, also described him as a good leader right from childhood.

Highlights of the two separate events were Thanksgiving, prayers for the governor, the state, the country and launching of a magazine at Prayer Centre Church of God.

Also in attendance were political, religious and traditional rulers including the Déjì of Akure, Oba Aladelusi Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, the Oniwo of Iwo, Osun State, Oba Adewale Akanbi; Ondo State Chief of Staff, Chief Olugbenga Ale and other members of the state executive council.

Akeredolu Inspects Ongoing Ipele - Owo Road

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Saturday embarked on an Inspection tour of the ongoing construction of 8.5 Kilometers road in Ipele, Owo local government area of the state.

Arakunrin Akeredolu was welcomed into the community with songs of appreciation and prayer by the people of Ipele community including women group and the immediate past Caretaker Chairman of Owo Local Government, Hon. Adebayo Oke.

They appreciated the governor for fulfilling his promise to the community and 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.

� Blessed Michael

Akeredolu Receives First Set Of Renew Government Vehicles, Says It's A New Dawn in Governance

Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Friday received the first set of refurbished Government Vehicles which were were put in good shape by Logistical ideas Limited.

Governor Akeredolu decided to renew numerous broken down and unserviceable vehicles at significantly low costs compared to the acquisition of brand new vehicles.

Following biddings from severally organisations, the Akeredolu’s administration brought in Logistical ideas Limited who has now delivered the first set of the renew vehicles with two years warranty.

Presenting the Vehicles to the Governor at the Governor's Office, Alagbaka, Akure, the Chairman, Logistical ideas Limited, Mr.Oluwole Okunnuga said the innitiave of the Governor to repair numerous broken down and unserviceable vehicles has helped saved the state's resources and put a stop at wastage.

He said in the next two weeks, his firm will deliver another 30 vehicles and also move at the same pace to be able to cover the time frame with the stipulated number of vehicles.

Mr. Ogunnuga disclosed that the project has also created jobs for artisans in the state as most workers were hired within the state.

Governor Akeredolu who said it's a new dawn in Governance in the state, stressed that he decided to put an end to the practice of abandoning serviceable vehicles to buy new ones.

The Governor noted that his administration became creative as a way of finding solution around the hard economy reality of the state.

Akeredolu who said the vehicles were risen from the dead, attested to the fact that most of the workers at the repair workshop are from within the state.


� Blessed Michael

We are open to credible investors, says Gov Akeredolu

The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN has assured a conglomerate of Chinese Investors desirous of establishing a 3-multisector business investments in Ondo State of conducive environment.

The governor who said Ondo State was open to credible investors gave assurance that with the avalanche of resources in natural, agrarian and minerals, any investment in the state would bring geometric returns.

Arakunrin Akeredolu said the hub for the three core business areas which include, Industrial, Agricultural and Herbal Medicine Production will be sited in each of of three Senatorial Areas of the state after considering nearness to raw material needs.

The governor who recalled the facilitation of his administration through which investors from the Chinese City of Lynin operating about seven different companies at the Ore Industrial Hub said the new investors would have in Ondo State a home like no other place.

Earlier the leader of the 14-Man Business Delegation who spoke through a Chinese interpreter Mr. Steve Jing Changsheng said the divergent economic potentials of Ondo State informed their interests in the Sunshine State.

He said the proposed Industrial Hub would include Manufacturing, Oil and Gas and particularly the production of Gas Cylinders for domestic use.

Mr. Changsheng also said that the Agricultural component of the investment hub would centre on meat production not for local consumption but for export, adding that the investors on Chinese Herbal Medicine was prepared to establish a production hub in state to tackle some intractable ailments giving the global community some concerns.

The Deputy Governor , Hon Agboola Ajayi led a number of the State Executive Council, Management of Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, ONDIPA with Permanent Secretaries of some strategic Ministries to join the State Governor to receive the visiting Chinese Investors.

Ondo gets $37m health loan from World Bank


Ondo State government has accessed $37 million out of $50 million loan approved by the World Bank under the Nigerian State Health Investment Project (N-SHIP) to address the challenges facing the health sector in three states in the country.


The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Wahab Adegbenro, and the Special Adviser to the governor on Health, Jibayo Adeyeye, who disclosed this at the weekend during a seminar on how to sustain the health sector financing, said two other states – Adamawa and Nasarawa – benefitted from the World Bank loan.


The Executive Secretary, the state Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, said about 600 Primary Health Centres (PHC) across the 18 local government areas of the state under the N-SHIP in order to reduce maternal and child deaths in the state. According to Akanbiemu, the PHCs have been serving as mini-Mother and Child Hospitals to complement the existing ones in the state.


However, Adeyeye said the World Bank programme, which began in the state in 2014, would wind down next year,.


This, according to him, is giving the state concern on how to maintain the health scheme which has led to the rehabilitation of many health centres in the state. To sustain the performance base financing project beyond the time World Bank would be withdrawing; Adeyeye said government has put together the Ondo State Contributory Health Scheme. He said: “N-SHIP will be winding down in 2020 in Ondo State. There is need that we sustain the scheme.


The Health Insurance Commission has been established by the law of Ondo State House of Assembly. It has been assented to by the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.”

‘Ondo Contributory Health Scheme to kick off’

Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Wahab Adegbenro has assured that the Contributory Health Scheme which will soon kick off is an avenue to improve the health sector of the state.

The scheme which according to him will be to the benefit of all, becomes the driving force for qualitative health care delivery.

He stated this during a stakeholders’ meeting on Performance Based Financing (PBF) sustainability in Akure last Thursday.

According to him, government is working assiduously to ensure that the state showcases its robust health care system among other states in Nigeria.

He explained that the commencement of the Contributory Health Scheme will assist the state in effectively running the health sector.

Executive Secretary, Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu while commending the activities of the Nigeria State Health Investment Project(NSHIP), described the project as a success in the state and noted that all have been working to ensure quality output.

While speaking extensively on the sustainability of NSHIP after its expiration in the state in 2020, he described the Contributory Health Scheme(CHS) as a vital tool for the project sustainability and added that the system makes decision making faster and also creates ownership for the community.

Special Adviser to the governor on health, Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye while analyzing some facts, stated that there was no need for sustainability plan rather than ensuring that the CHS works perfectly saying “government has come up with a policy that takes care of pregnant women, under five children and vulnerable group.”

Speaking earlier, Project Coordinator, NSHIP, Dr. Paulinus Omode noted that the state has benefited immensely from the dividend and approach use to finance health in the state.

He stated that it is necessary for the state to deliberate on way forward especially in financing the state health system in order to achieve an increased health care services across the state.

Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Niran Ikuomola pointed out that the CHS will always make sufficient fund available to cater for the health need of the people.

Jegun of Ile-Oluji, Oba Oluwole Olufaderin Adetimehin while calling for a reappraisal of the delivery of health care services especially in the remote areas, harped on the need for community leaders to be involved in order to manage some inefficiencies.

Pioneer Project Coordinator, NSHIP, Aladeniyi Isaac noted that a lot of modifications have to come in if PBF has to be adopted in the state and advised that all other health factors; secondary and tertiary health facilities, must be brought in.

GOV AKEREDOLU EXPRESSES CONCERN ON POWER SUPPLY TO ONDO STATE, SAYS HIS EFFORTS WILL PAY-OFF SOON.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has once again expressed deep concern over lack of public power supply to most parts of the southern Senatorial District of the state.

Addressing a cross section of residents of Okitipupa at a wedding ceremony in the town, Arakunrin Akeredolu said no government would be comfortable seeing a large percentage of its population living their lives in darkness.

He said his administration since inception in 2017 has taken up the issue of public power supply to parts of the state with appropriate authorities almost on daily basis.

Governor Akeredolu added that Ondo State and other states being serviced by BEDC have even threatened to pull out their shareholdings in BEDC to make them act on the plight of the people and possibly look for a credible investor to service them.

The governor said he was mounting pressures on the Federal Government to enable the state have access to the Omotosho Power Plant and the state owned Independent Power Holding in Ore to ease the power problem of the state.

While urging the people to be patient a little while, Arakunrin Akeredolu said his administration has continued to employ some stop gap measures like the construction of mini grids

and solar power to ameliorate the pains of lack of power supply to the people.

He however regretted that mini grids do not have the energy capacity to service cities like Okitipupa other wise the State Government would have provided for the town like it did in communities like Aboto, Ebute Ipare,Igbobini and Gbagira

He assured that the aggregate efforts of his administration would in no distant future yield positive results that will bring enough power supply to every household across the southern part of the state.

Parts of the creative efforts of the State Government at addressing public power supply in the state include the ongoing power plant project at Ugbonla and the Independent Power Plant project at the State University of Science and Technology to cover the University campus and some parts of Okitipupa and Igbokoda..

Source: https://citadelng.com/gov-akeredolu-expresses-concern-on-power-supply-to-ondo-state-says-his-efforts-will-pay-off-soon-2/

AAUA to admit 5,305 applicants – VC

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, has declared that the institution only found 5,305 out of over 21,000 students to be qualified for admission into the school.

This means about 16,000 UTME candidates and Applicants failed to gain admission into the university.

The VC therefore charged the newly-admitted students of the Institution, to shun vices capable of thwarting their academic pursuits, assuring them that the University is prepared to make them fulfil their academic dreams.

Prof. Ajibefun gave the advice today while addressing the 5,305 newly-admitted students of the University at the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2018/2019 academic session.

The VC said, “It’s important to note that you are very fortunate to be among the admitted 5,305 students, out of over 21,000 applicants that

picked Adekunle Ajasin University. It is on this note that I would like to admonish you to take your admission seriously by being studious and ensure that your individual studentship is sustained.

“Let me remind you, as I also did during your orientation programme, that this University has zero tolerance for vices, including examination misconduct, rape, cultism, fraud and theft.

“I am happy to inform you, dear new students and distinguished parents

and guardians, that Adekunle Ajasin University has the required conducive learning environment and facilities; as well as the human and material resources that will enable our students to fulfill their

learning aspirations.”

The VC congratulated the students on their admission.

The Acting Registrar, Mr. Opeoluwa Akinfemiwa, administered the

Matriculation Oath on the students.

Source: https://citadelng.com/5305-out-of-21000-applicants-are-qualified-for-admission-into-aaua-vc/