₦airaland Forum

Report says Senator Ajayi Borofice, the Nigerian senate deputy majority leader has tabled a six points of demands to be met before he could support the reelection of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for second term.

It was gathered that Boroffice among other demands sought to present Akeredolu’s running mate in the forthcoming Governorship poll.

Although the conditions are yet to be officially unveiled, a source revealed that the Senator tabled the demands to the APC National Reconcilaition Committee for Ondo State led by the Niger State Governor, Abubakar Sanni Bello.

Governor Sanni Bello-led committee was in Akure on Friday where it met stakeholders, especially aspirants including Governor Akeredolu as part of efforts to stem further crisis in the APC.

However, the push for the position of deputy governor, ostensibly for a crony, has polarised the Unity Forum as the senator, without consultation, is rooting for one of the aspirants, Jimi Odimayo.

Aside deputy governorship slot, Boroffice seeks the following.

…an unreserved apology from the governor

….establishment of a Governor Advisory Council to advise the Governor on critical issues

…concession of key Ministries to the Unity Forum.

…all members of the Unity Forum holding elective positions in the State and National Assembly must be given automatic return tickets for re – election

…dissolution of state, local and ward executive committes of the APC in Ondo State.

Curiously, Odimayo who is on the cards in the camp of the Senator for the position of deputy governor had short after the announcement of the Primary election Committee, described Governor Yahaya Bello as a vote robber.

Odimayo, who spoke through a short post on the facebook page of his Director of Media and Communication, Mr. Yemi Akintomide, specifically said Bello is the most notorious and deadly votes robber.

The demands by the senator means that aside Odimayo, other aspirants of the APC have commenced covert moves to become running mate to Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu after the party primary.

By this development such governorship aspirants appear to have given up on their chances and the prospects of their ambition

PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY, IMO STATE

Press Statement
[b][/b]
...His N50m Suit Against DSS adopted and reserved for Judgment.

The High Court Owerri presided by Justice I. G. Chukwunyere today Monday, June 22, 2020, granted bail to Comrade Ambrose Nwaogwugwu, the detained Director-General, Imo PDP New Media, who was arrested and detained by the Department of State Security (DSS) on May 28, 2020 on allegations of defaming the person of Senator Hope Uzodinma via his posts made on facebook.

His Counsel, Chief Mike Ahamba SAN, had filed an application praying the Court to grant him bail on the grounds that the charges and offences for which he was arrested, detained and arraigned by the DSS and the Owerri Magistrate Court were all nullity. The government, represented by Barrister K. C Nwokorie on behalf of the Imo Attorney General, had opposed the bail application, after which the Court gave its ruling.

The Judge held that it did not see any exceptional circumstances for the Court not to exercise its judicial discretion to grant bail to the Applicant, especially when the offences for which Ambrose was charge were bailable at the discretion of the Court.

The Court therefore granted him bail with N500,000 recognizance with two sureties who must show evidence of land ownership, payment of two years tax clearance and to swear to an affidavit of means.

In his remark, the Chairman of the party, Sir Martin Ejiogu thanked the Imo Judiciary for standing up for democracy and justice. He also thanked Imo PDP leaders and members, as well as all Imo people, for their support all through the period Comrade Ambrose Nwaogwugwu was in detention. He assured them that Imo PDP will remain law-abiding and peace-loving.

Meanwhile, the N50 million suit filed by Comrade Ambrose Nwaogwugwu against the DSS at the Federal High Court, Owerri was also heard today June 22, 2020 and reserved for Judgment. Mr Nwaogwugwu is praying the Court to award him N50 million as damages for unlawfully arresting and detaining him beyond the stipulated 48 hours against the DSS.

Signed:

Ogubundu Nwadike,
Ag. State Secretary,
Imo PDP.

June 22, 2020.

Press Statement
[b][/b]
Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has debunked stories making the round on the social media in respect of the above. The Governor describes the stories as absolute falsehood intended to play victim by the principal actors involved.

The Governor said the story, which claimed that the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command restrained the Deputy Governor from leaving the Government House on his directive was a concorted and devious lie meant to discredit him.

It should, however, be placed on records that it is a time-tested code in government's business for officials to take inventory of offices and quarters before and after an official is moving in or out of offices or quarters.

Accordingly, the CP's intervention which was at the instance of an almost manipulated security apparatus at the Government House was most desirable to restore law and order. It becomes particularly worrisome and suspicious when aides of the Deputy Governor insisted on leaving the premises with items wrapped in unclear ownership as late as 11 pm.

Governor Akeredolu reiterates his commitment to the rights of all, including the Deputy Governor. But he has a duty to be firm and dispassionate in exercising the roles assigned to him.

Signed:
Segun Ajiboye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

The Natiomal Vice Chairman (Southwest) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Pastor Bankole Oluwajana, has said the region is united and prepared for future political challenges.

He said although 2023 poll is still far and too premature to discuss, the Southwest will confront the challenge with courage and optimism.

The vice chairman told reporters in Lagos Southwest APC leaders have closed ranks and resolved to sustain the tempo of political unity in the interest of the zone and Nigeria.

He said: ”2023 is still far off. We have just finished an election. I am happy that people are looking in the direction of the Southwest, even when our leaders have not made the demand for it. Our leaders have not spoken. But, we in the Southwest will not shy away from the call to duty. We are working to ensure unity in the Southwest.”

Reflecting on the zoning controversy, Oluwajana said “those against zoning are in the minority,” adding that they were only expressing their personal opinions.

He stresed: “There are competent people in the Southwest. Zoning limits rancour. If you are talking about competence, Southwest will be the first. In other parts of Nigeria, we have competent people too.”



To the vice chairman, the crises in Ondo and Osun APC had been exaggerated, pointing out that more intra-party squabbles are normal in politics and democracy.

Oluwajana warned against the penchant for perceiving politics and election as a matter of life and death, saying that political contest is not an equivalence of war.

He urged Nigerians to support President Buhari “because he is doing his best.”

Oluwajana, who spoke on the bond of unity in Southwest APC, cautioned against peddling rumours of discord in Ondo and Osun chapters.

He said he believed the Ondo State deputy governor, Agboola Ajayi, who had clarified that there was no friction between him and his boss, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

He also said the friction between Akeredolu and Asiwaju Bola Tinubu is a figment of hyperactive imagination.

Describing Ondo APC as a vibrant chapter, Oluwajana said: “People have ambitions and plans in a party. If someone aspires, it is not suggestive of disunity. The leadership of the APC believes that the party should retain Ondo and we are working towards it. There were challenges in 2016, but the party still won.”

The vice chairman cautioned against character assassination and campaigns of calming, warning that “anybody that runs down the party in Ondo because he wants to be governor will not get there.”

However, Oluwajana said the party chairman, Ade Adetinehin, has a lot of job to do, in terms of reconciliation, adding that the zonal leadership will build support for the peace moves.

Hailing Akeredolu for living up to expectation, he said: “The Ondo governor is focusing on infrastructural development. We have over three million people in Ondo. He is constantly paying the salaries of workers and he is not neglecting outstanding salaries.

“Nobody can get free money from Akeredolu. Our focus is the effort he has been making to develop Ondo. We now have several flights going to Ondo. There are activities going on in Ore, Olokola Port. He is trying to make the bitumen in Agbabu a reality.”

The party chieftain said Ondo peoplexare always critical of their government. He pointed out that the governor is tightening loose ends and preventing corruption. He lamented that Ondo APC lost two senatorial seats to discordant tunes, assuring that such disagreement will nor reoccur.

Oluwajana cautioned against blowing the APC crisis out of proportion, saying that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is not enjoying any respite.

He added: “Is the PDP different? Are Dickson and Wike not fighting? Is a Southeast governor not being accused of fraternising with the APC? Even, in United States, are there no issues? Except in one party state, there will be issues in politics. But, when they are resolved, there will be peace.”

Oluwajana reflected on the rift between APC National Chairman Adam’s Oshiomhole and Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, assuring that it will be resolved.

He noted that the party has set up a reconciliation committee to reconcile them.

The vice chairman said such crises are not new in a dynamic party, recalling that at a time some sceptics thought the party will explode, shortly before the 2014 convention, the platform waxed stronger.

He said Obaseki, who had rejected the reconciliation panel, should have complained directly to the president.

He stressed: “The rejection is an issue that will be resolved too. If Obaseki has issues with the committee, I would have expected him to complain to the president.”

Oluwajana peeped into 2023, saying that eyes may not be on the Southeast.

His words: “You look at the strength of the party in the Southeast, although Southeast is holding key positions in government. APC is strong in the North. APC is strong in the Southwest. Southeast should embrace APC. Nobody will beg a region with a presidential ticket. There are states in the Southeast where APC does not have up to 50,000 membership. They must realise that they cannot be an island in Nigeria. They should team up for unity.”

On border closure, Oluwajana said: “Positive thinkers should take full advantage of the border closure to contribute to production. Are we supposed to be depending on goods from other countries? We should encourage our people to look inwards.

“The border closure should propel production. Young graduates should shun intellectual laziness and make use of government’s policies to be productive.”

The Ondo State Government on Monday declared that it had reduced the debt inherited from the immediate past administration of the Peoples Democratic Party, by 50 per cent.

The government also disclosed that the Dr Olusegun Mimiko-led Peoples Democratic Party administration left a sum of N220 billion debt



The state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Donald Ojogo stated this while featuring on programme on Channels Television on Monday.

According to the statement, the current administration had also jerked the Internally Generated Revenue of the state from the N700 million inherited from the PDP administration to over N1 billion monthly.

He said Akeredolu’s administration signed a pact with the people of the state to ensure all-round development in the three senatorial districts of the state and had not been relenting in its efforts to use industrialization to drive the fortunes of the state, particularly on improved IGR.

He also explained that the N30 billion bond which the state sought would be used in line with extant financial provisions.

He said, “Our resolve as a government is that by the time we leave office in the next five years, I said in the next five years because Mr. Governor is going to recontest and win by God’s grace, we hope to leave the government without debt for the incoming administration after our two terms.

“The PDP will not deny the fact that we are constructing a flyover in Ore, we have leveled up a hill in Ikare and made it dual carriageway, we are changing the face of Akure with massive infrastructure.”

Meanwhile, the chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, has expressed confidence that the party will excel in all the political contests coming up later in the year, especially the governorship election.

He boasted that the party would enjoy an easy ride to victory in the forthcoming election, urging members of the party to be united.

By Alozie Genevieve

In recognition of her massive contribution towards women and children empowerment in the society, the wife of Ondo state governor, Mrs. Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu among other meaningful Nigerians has been nominated by Nigerian Tribune Newspaper to be presented with Tribune ‘s Platinum award on Tuesday December 10th at MUSON Hall, Onikan, Lagos.
Nigerian Tribune Newspaper publishers has recognized the immense contributions of the first Lady of Ondo State towards societal development and thus has described her as follow;
"Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu is not a feminist, but a humanist. She is motivated by the desire to make life better for the other person irrespective of their gender. Having survived breast cancer, she resolved to help as many people as possible to survive the dreaded ailment. This led to the establishment of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), a leading NGO that is galvanising action against breast cancer in Nigeria through public education, patient support, advocacy and research.

She also established the Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation (BAAF) through which she has been able to touch many lives and bring succor to many hurting souls. An ardent promoter of literacy, the wife of Ondo State governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, has come up with programmes such as Reading is Fun, Essay Competition and Spelling Bee Competition to stimulate young people’s interest in education. She is also committed to advancing the economic status of women, nurturing the interest of young girls in ICT and solar energy technology in order to bridge the gender gap, developing talents in arts and sports, promotion of improved sanitation in schools and communities and inclusive quality education for the deaf."
The conferment of the award is in commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN). The award according to the publishers of Nigerian Tribune Newspaper is to reward and recognize some Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in public service and nation building.
Other nominees for the award include, Central bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., Governors, Aminu Tambuwal, Ifeanyi Okowa, Godwin Obaseki, Samuel Ortom and Seyi Makinde. Prince Olasunsoye Oyinlola, Imam Abubakar Abdullahi, Senator Godswill Akpabio, Ibikunle Amosun and Abiola Ajimobi.
GENEVIEVE ALOZIE
TCC NEWS

The attention of the Ondo State Government has been drawn to the narrations of seeming government's interference and undue influence in respect of the above subject matter.

In particular, a misleading tale is being insinuated that the State Government is poised to impose a particular candidate as the next Vice Chancellor of the University. These narrations draw inspirations from a letter which emanated from Government stopping the selection process.

Unnecessary as these stories seem, the public deserves to know that the letter from the Office of the Chief of Staff to Mr. Governor was meant to forestall an avoidable crisis of confidence amongst members of the University's Governing Council. This came to the fore as Government received a protest letter from some members in respect of the selection process.

Owing to the importance Government attaches to University administration, it was decided that Mr. Governor who is the Visitor, meets with members of the Governing Council to straighten all contentious issues. The meeting holds next week.

Therefore, insinuations as a result of this development are incorrect and should not be taken seriously. For the avoidance of doubt, the current government's belief in due process in the administration of the State's Public Service remains unwavering.

Signed

Donald Ojogo
Commissioner for Information and Orientation

December 5, 2019

Flag off of Maternal and Child Health Insurance Scheme In Ondo State.
Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN of Ondo State today Tuesday 3rd, December 2019, flagged off the Maternal and Child Health Insurance Scheme at Mother and Child Hospital Akure.
maternal and health insurance scheme is a medium which allows pregnant women and children under 5 years of age to access free qualitative health care in Ondo state.
The Ondo state governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, stated that health is fundamental and is everyone's right. In the bid to provide qualitative and affordable healthcare service delivery, the governor introduced an insurance scheme, the Ondo State Contributory Health Service that provides free maternal and U-5 children with health service delivery.
The Governor noted that overtime, Ondo State is rated very high in terms of maternal and healthcare delivery in Nigeria, as a result of the previous measures put in place by the past administration which was led by a medical doctor but more was needed to get the medical system more proficient which was why we introduced health insurance scheme.
Dr Jibayo Adeyeye, the special advicer to the governor on health, commends governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for his visionary and magnanimous act of taking the bull by the horn in providing health insurance cover for pregnant women and U-5children in Ondo state.
The Commission will be strict in enforcing the eligibility criteria for this scheme because we want to ensure that only resident of Ondo State benefit from this programme. Adeyeye noted.
Other dignitaries who were present to grace the event were; Hon. Agboola Ajayi Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Commissioner for Health, Dr Wahab Adegbenro, Special Advicer to the governor on health Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye, GM, Ondo State Contributory Healthcare Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin and the Royal fathers, Religious leaders and Political appointees.
ALOZIE GENEVIEVE
TCC NEWS

Despite the strings of massive road construction successes already recorded by his administration, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said his administration had just started with the construction of roads in the state.

Akeredolu said his administration is poised to spread the construction of roads to every part of the state in order to improve economic activities and make life easy for the people.

The Governor spoke on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, while addressing Traditional Rulers in the state at the Inauguration of Oba Fedrick Obateru Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Ugbo, as the Chairman of the State Council of Obas, held at the International Center For Culture And Events (DOME).

Arakunrin Akeredolu assured that the ongoing rehabilitation of roads across the State will not stop, adding that a good number of roads in the State will be reconstructed as dual carriageways to ease transport and commerce and provide massive employment opportunities for the people.

The Governor said: “I want to say with all sense of modesty that we have not let down the people in fulfilling our promises to impact positively on the State and her people. I want to state that Your Majesties are living witnesses to some of our achievements in the last three years.”

Governor Akeredolu listed some of the roads already constructed by his administration to include: ”Oke Alabojuto Road, Ikare-Akoko; Lennon Jubilee - Solaco Road, Ugbe Road, Ikare-Akoko; Selected Roads in Ifon; Oke Afa Road, Supare-Akoko; failed portions along Iwaro-Oka/Isua Road.

“ Reconstruction as dual carriageway of the road from Emure Junction - AUD and from Ministry of works to Iyere Junction, Owo ; Reconstruction as dual carriageway of ‘A’ Division to Ijoka Road (ongoing); Reconstruction as dual carriageway of Akure to Oda Road (ongoing); Construction of selected Roads in Akure Township; Construction of selected Roads in Idanre; Igbara-Oke - Ibuji Road; Oke-Ogba Community Road

“Reconstruction as dual carriageway of the road from CBN to Bishop’s Court in Alagbaka, Akure; Sabomi - Ajagba Road (2.3km); Construction of Ile-Oluji Township Roads; Construction of flyover across Ore - Benin Expressway (ongoing); and Construction of Okitipupa – Igbokoda Byepass Road (ongoing).”

Arakunrin Akeredolu also disclosed that there have been massive renovation of public primary schools across the 18 Local Government Areas in the State, with the provision of school furniture, ICT facilities, fence to enhance security, amongst others.

He said his administration has implemented these projects, such that no local government area in the state is left out.

The Governor said the resolve of his administration to woo investors to Ondo State is already yielding fruitful results with the​Paper Mill Factory, Ethanol Plant,MDF/HDF Wood Plant and the Win-win Textile already established at the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Park in Ore for the rapid economic development of the State.

He stressed that the proposed Seaport is still very much on course, adding that It was gratifying to say that the project implementation plan for the Deep Seaport, spelling out milestones and timelines for the completion of the multibillion dollars projects, has been received.

“The feasibility study of the proposed Port of Ondo has shown that it is economically viable, as it has the deepest natural draught with the longest coastline in the West African Sub-region and capacity to harbour any ship in the world.” Akeredolu said.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
November 26, 2019.

The Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN wishes to express his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, Ondo Kingdom and indeed the good people of the State over the demise of High Chief Alex Akinyele, a former Information Minister. Mr. Governor received this shocking news early today.

"Late Alex Akinyele was a man of many parts who made sound and meaningful impacts in his active days of service to the Nation. The urbane, quintessential personality and glamour which he blended with an alluring cultural carriage provided an enviablly distinct style that was proudly Nigerian. His highly tasteful social life never dimished his love for the Yoruba culture; it rather attracted and exported admiration.

"No doubt too, the former Information Minister created a different perception of Public Relations which he nurtured zealously. His was not just PR. His human relations exuded a perfectionist's bend that took Information and Perception Management to a different pedestal in the country.

"Going the way of other mortals is a debt for all. The difference is time. As our icon, Alex Akinyele pays his and moves on, ours is to pray for the repose of his soul. This is even as his legacies are there for all, especially PR practitioners to maximize. His love for the family while alive, shall clearly remain undying even in his absence.

"On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ondo State, Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu ,SAN shares this moment of loss. It is a personal loss to him in some significant respects.

"Aside being a respected Nigerian elder and opinion leader of Ondo State origin, the late Aleco like I and many other Nigerian patriots, is a proud product of the Great Ife, the nation's pride and excellence symbol. Great Ife will miss him greatly. Every Alumnus feels this vacuum.

May the soul of High Chief Alex Akinyele rest in perfect peace".

SIGNED

Donald Ojogo
Commissioner for Information and Orientation
Ondo State

The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Thursday, November 14, 2019 received the Outline of Business Case, OBC, which comprehensively states the Project Implementation Plan for the proposed Port of Ondo.

The presentation was made by the project Consortium comprising a Spanish firm, Ocean Infrastructure Management, OIM, its Nigerian Partner, Franchise and Business Solutions Ltd, FBS; in the presence of officials of Nigerian Port Authority and coordinated by the Consultant to Ondo State Government on the project, Amiable Consultancy and Logistics Services Ltd.

Governor Akeredolu said his administration would give everything into actualising the project speedily in view of its derivable benefits not only to the economy of the state and the country but to the entire West African subregion.

He said: "Port of Ondo will be less than 45 minutes to Lagos by road and by water, it will be shorter. With the location, Ondo will becomes a nerve center. Citing the port here is one of the best thing that will happen to, not just Ondo, but Nigeria. We are not ready to waste any time. We are ready to give all the support. We are serious about this port. We are very serious about it

“Look at the draft , it’s not found in any other place in Nigeri. We keep dredging when we have a natural dredge in Ondo State. I’m told that mother ship can berth in port Ondo. Let us look at the report. Let’s focus on the viability of the port Ondo."

The representative of the Nigeria Port Authority (NPA) Mrs Elizabeth Awuletey described the project as the dawn of a new era in the state.

https://citadelng.com.ng/2019/11/14/port-of-ondo-akeredolu-receives-project-implementation-plan/

...Targets 500 Bed Medical Facility

The determination of the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu administration to provide first-class health facilities for the people of Ondo State has taken another giant leap with the commencement of the construction of a modern world-class teaching hospital at the former State hospital in Akure, the state capital.

Already, the Critical Care Unit complex has been constructed and will be used as the temporary Accident and Emergency ward to allow for the demolition and construction of a two-storey complex at the current A & E building.

Similarly, a new building has been constructed for the Children Emergency ward, which was never in existence since the establishment of the hospital.
The Akeredolu administration has also began the reconstruction of a 16-year old abandoned structure at the hospital, which is projected to be used for surgical outpatience and stroke ward.

Addressing Journalists after inspecting the ongoing construction at the facility, Governor Akeredolu said his administration is upgrading the health facility from a 150-bed to a 300-bed hospital.

Arakunrin Akeredolu also hinted that he has given a directive that houses very close to the hospital should be valued, as his administration is ready to acquire the buildings and compensate the owners.

He said apart from the fact that it is very dangerous living very close to a hospital, the acquisition will enable government to expand the facility and build a modern world-class Teaching hospital.

Akeredolu said:”All of us have toured this facility and I’m sure you remember what we met on ground here . Since we came on board ,things have changed here including the road network and a number of buildings here have been renovated, but we have just started

“The important thing is that we are building a new medical ward, a two-storey building and it will be so big. Very soon, by next month the frontage will go down and it will allow for a modern medical world-class facility here.
“It is taking us a lot to arrive at making this place a world-class teaching hospital . We know that the University of Medical Sciences needed to have a befitting hospital . Instead of building new ones or concentrating in one area, we decided to have a multi-sector hospital.

“This place used to be a 150-bed hospital and it will be 300-bed when we complete it.
"I have looked at the buildings that are too close to the hospital and I have asked that they should be valued so that we can acquire them and compensate the owners .

”Our target is to have a 500-bed teaching hospital . A number of buildings around will have to go and we will pay compensation and expand the hospital to make it big.”

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
10th September , 2019

http://www.ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Ondo-State-Govt-Re-awards-Road-Project--Saves-N4-billion

The first lady, Ondo state, Chief Mrs. Betty Akeredolu today lead the breast cancer awareness Jog for Life in Lagos State, an annual event initiated by the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, BRECAN.

This is the fourth Jog for Life exercise held between October and now to create awareness about the deadly breast Cancer disease by BRECAN.

The 2019 edition was flagged off in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, followed by Ondo State and Imo state which were held simultaneously.

BRECAN is a non-governmental organisation, founded by the wife of Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, 22 years ago, being a survivor, to create awareness about the need to prevent the disease among women, and for early detection.

Today’s Jog for Life kicks off at Lekki Peninsula Phase one roundabout, and terminates at Blics Garden and Boat Club Lekki Waterfront in Lagos.

#Ekoispink

By GENEVIEVE ALOZIE

The wife of Ondo State governor, Mrs. Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu was yesterday October 30, lauded by the honourable minister of women affairs, Mrs. Dame Pauline Tallen, for her women and health-focused driven programmes during her visit to Akure, Ondo State capital for the National Council meeting for all the ministries of women affairs in the 36 states including FCT.

It is no longer a surprise that Mrs. Akeredolu attracts commendations for her unprecedented strides in humanitarian services, social development and empowerment by prominent figures in the society.

Before her emergence as the first lady of Ondo State, she has been an agitator of gender equality and other issues concerning women.

In line with her watchword; Human Capital Development, which is what the First Lady of Ondo State leverages on to alleviate poverty among the women and young girls in Ondo State., under the umbrella of Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu Foundation (BAAF).

Through this initiative, Mrs. Akeredolu has created employment for those who has skills but lack equipments to stand on their own by distributing grinding machines, Hair drying machines and sewing machines to them so that they can earn a living and make their families much better.

Also, her annual empowerment programme (BEMORE initiative) has become a veritable tool that empowers the girl child in info state. Just as the name implies, it helps them become more in the society. In August 2018, during “Bemore Summer Boot Camp” hybrid Laptop computers were distributed to secondary school girls, as part of her bid to get Ondo State digitalized, which in turn earned her the name “Digital Mama”.

This initiative has trained over 1000 girls in ICT, Solar energy technology and Skills acquisition which has made the beneficiaries more resourceful in the society.

Mrs. Akeredolu as a breast cancer survivor, has through BREAST CANCER ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (BRECAN) provided free cancer screening for rural women, preventive therapy, pallative care and succor for women living with breast or cervical cancer, and these have helped a lot of women.

Mrs. Tallen praised Mrs. Akeredolu for championing the advocacy against cancer, and prayed that God grant her more grace to pilot the affairs of women and children in the state.

She also commended the state government for the inclusion of women in governance, as she advocates for more women in government to bridge the gender imbalance in governance.

The Nigeria First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari who relayed her message through the Women Affairs Minister, said she is pleased with the reports of the numerous programme by Mrs. Akeredolu.

Mrs. Akeredolu while responding during the 19th National Women’s Council meeting on women affairs and social development, said women are the bedrock of any move to change the society. Thereby emphasized the need for more women at the policy-making table.

She also disclosed that all her programme are tailored towards the development of women and girl child in Ondo State.

The First lady, who agreed that misconception and ignorance are the major factors that lead to women dying carelessly from cancer, told the Women Affairs Minister, that through BRECAN initiative many are now on the know, that cancer does not kill if detected earlier.

https://citadelng.com.ng/2019/11/01/women-are-the-bedrock-of-societal-changes-mrs-akeredolu/

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 precisions as well as the near-faultless conclusions have deepened judiciality. The enviable industry collectively deployed by the reverred 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

Following the expiration of the two-year single tenure of the Ondo State Council of Obas and its subsequent dissolution, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has approved the constitution of a new Council and the appointment of Kabiyesi Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba (Dr.) Fredrick Eniolorunda Obateru Akinruntan, Okoro Ajija I, CON, as Chairman, Ondo State Council of Obas for a period of two years.

http://ondostate.gov.ng/Home/NewsItem/Governor-Akeredolu-Appoints-Olugbo-of-Ugbo-as-Chaiman-Ondo-State-Council-of-Obas

Government has observed with serious concern, the activities of some unscrupulous elements who have hidden under the guise of engaging in motorcycle business, popularly known as Okada, to perpetrate crime on the Ofosu-Ajebamidele route along the Ore Expressway.

Disturbed by the activities of these criminal elements which include armed robbery, kidnapping, their mode of operations as well as the heightening cases of loss of lives, the Ondo State Government has placed a total ban on commerical motorcycles (Okada) along the entire stretch of the route in question. This action is with immediate effect and shall suffice until further notice.

By this development, all activities of commerical motorcyclists are henceforth, restricted to internal confines of Ore town and other communities in the area. Security agencies, especially the Nigeria Police, are consequently directed to apprehend forthwith, anyone who flouts this restriction order.

Government appeals to the general public to co-operate with security agencies in the enforcement of this action in order to stem the growing rate of criminal activities along the area.

Signed:

Donald Ojogo,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation

GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU CURBS UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH ICT
GENEVIEVE ALOZIE
TCC NEWS.


Information Communication Technology (ICT), is a platform in communication that allows easy contact with others in sharing of information and providing solution to critical technological and social problems.


The application of ICT, boosts the existing industries such as manufacturing and shipping, it has also created new industries. Programmers, Data analysts, Web designers and Systems analysts as well as people who are involved in technology training owe their job to it.


In recognition of the importance of the governance of information communication technology, Ondo State governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, embarked on the quest to create an enabling ground through ICT for effective and proficiency in public service delivery as well as to transform the state into a technology and innovation hub in Nigeria if not Africa.


One of the giant strides of Akeredolu in ICT, is the investment and funding of the “Akure Tech-Hub” FUTA, that promotes technology innovation and exchange of ideas for business start-ups and youth in ICT. The governor during the commissioning of the hub said “that one of the cardinal points of his administration transformational agenda is to make Ondo State a technology and innovation destination of choice for Nigeria, Africa and the world.


In the bid to ensure reliable and effective management of health information data in the state, health workers were trained on the use of information technology tools, after which the government procured and distributed 362 data management tools “Clinipak Tablets” to the trained health workers across the 18 local government areas in the state.


Also to accelerate the economic development of Ondo State, this administration in partnership with American Tower Corporation (ATC), erected a digital village furnished with state-of-the-art facilities across the 3 senatorial districts in the state. The initiative is aimed at providing Computer and internet services to the rural dwellers to curb the rate of rural-urban migration and the level of discomfort people undergo trying to access internet services as well as reducing unemployment in the rural areas of the state.


This project has brought Ondo State to lime light, as it becomes the first and the only state in Nigeria to erect five digital villages within one year in office


Mr. Olumbe Akinkugbe, Senior Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor on ICT and Chairman of the State Information Technology Agency SITA, confirms that ICT in ondo state is targeted at young school leavers and unemployed graduates with a view to engage them in a productive and meaningful venture that will bail them out of endless search for white collar job.


To provide employment opportunities and curb unemployment across the state, ondo state government, through the office of innovation and Partnership engaged over 35 Ondo state youths on Data Science training skill as a way of lifting them out of unemployment and expose them to digital organizations who are in dear need of data analyst for employment.


In the same vein, the office of the wife of the governor, Arabinrin Betty-Anyanwu Akeredolu, since the inception of this administration has continually contributed her own quota to see that every girl child in the state becomes a technology savvy.


The first Lady, organized a platform “BEMORE GIRLS” which is a programmed to train girls on ICT, Solar energy and Life Changing Skills annually. This initiative has been productive, as the girls through the knowledge acquired go back to their various communities to solve ICT related problem.


According to Mrs. Akeredolu, one of the beneficiaries of “BEMORE GIRLS” training, won the Africa Code Week Scratch Competition for the state recently.


The relentless effort of governor Olwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, in ensuring that the state becomes a technology and innovation hub were ideas thrive and a destination of choice for business start-ups, earned him the prestigious award by Africa Digital Award as “ICT infrastructural Governor of the year” in 2019. the governor promised that internet service will not been seen as a thing of luxury in Ondo state as his administration is working to ensure that internet service becomes available and affordable to rural dwellers.

Akeredolu Saves N463M On 30 Reconditioned Vehicles

Ondo state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has saved the state of N463Million by reconditioning thirty broken down and unserviceable vehicles instead of buying new ones.

Akeredolu, who inherited a lean purse, engaged the services of an automobile company, Logical Ideas Limited, to recondition serviceable and unserviceable vehicles in all ministries, extra-ministerial departments and agencies.

While handling over the vehicles, the chairman of the company, Mr. Oluwole Okunnuga, said the state government saved N463million on the thirty reconditioned cars.

He said the government spent N65million only on the 30 Toyota vehicles, adding that the same number would have cost a whooping sum of N528million if new ones were purchased.

Okunnuga explained that each of the reconditioned vehicles cost an average of less than N3million, saving the state from acquiring the lowest cost brand new of N15Million.

He stressed that the vehicles, though not brand new, are better than fairly used ones and have a warranty of two years on the replaced brand new engines.

In his goodwill message, the state Commissioner for finance, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, described the reconditioning of the Vehicles as cost-effective and a reflection of a transformational leadership.

In his address, Governor Akeredolu said his decision to refurbish all government vehicles was taken due to paucity of funds and cost effectiveness, considering the skyrocketed and outrageous cost of procuring brand new vehicles.

The governor said the company was engaged to carry out a total overhauling of 284 vehicles in phases, adding that the move would save the state government a huge amount of money that otherwise would have been spent on new vehicles.

He said: "The vehicles we are receiving today is a clear evidence of prudent and logical decision at this time when there is paucity of fund in the state in particular and Nigeria in general

"It is first of its kind in the history of this state and it is in tandem with our electioneering campaign to think a new and act a new."

The governor, who called for the cultivation of maintenance culture among the users of the vehicle, stressed that there will be reward for any driver who handles the vehicle attached to him very well while those who do otherwise will be sanctioned.

Olabode R Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
2nd August, 2019

AKETI the talk and Do governor we are proud of you.

No fewer than 10 girls from the BEMORE Empowered Initiative of Ondo state first lady, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, are currently undergoing advanced training on renewable energy in a Training of Trainers (ToT) program for the BEMORE Empowered Initiative’s 2019 Summer Boot Camp.

The 2-day TOT program, which focuses on “Best Practices in Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency”, is organized by the German International Cooperation (GIZ), under the aegis of Nigerian Energy Support Program (NESP), with support from Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation (BAAF).


GIZ implements the Nigerian Energy Support Program, financed by the European Union and the German Government, which has been operating since 2013 and is currently in its second phase (2017-2021).

GIZ, which has registered offices in Bonn and Eschborn, Germany and NESP, Asokoro, Abuja, Nigeria offers customized solutions to complex challenges in more than 120 countries around the globe. GIZ runs more than 160 projects on energy, among other things.

Earlier in the training, the NESP Advisor (capacity development and private sector collaboration), Sharon Kaburuk, enumerated the objectives of the training to include:

*Increasing skills and capacity of trainers (including instructional methods) to adequately train other young girls,

*Promoting gender parity and encourage women inclusion in the energy sector,

*Keeping up with best practices and international standards for renewable energy and energy efficiency, and

*Exploring, learning and building a career in clean energy.

Speaking with newsmen at event holding at the NESP Abuja office, the Program Lead (Renewable Energy) of Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu Foundation (BAAF), Bassey Obeten, who doubles as the BEMORE Technical Coordinator, said BAAF targets capacity building of the BEMORE Ambassadors who will inspire other young girls that would be participating in the forthcoming “BEMORE Summer Boot Camp 4 Girls Naija” slated to hold in Ondo state in August.


Obeten expressed optimism that the training will expose the girls to new knowledge on renewable energy, and will give them the ability to take on big tasks in renewable energy, and at the same time mentor others in the field; which he said will guarantee sustainability of the BEMORE program.

Some of the participants who spoke to newsmen at the event, expressed gratitude to the founder of BEMORE Empowered Initiative, Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, for her foresight and for finding them worthy to be part of the training program.

Experts on renewable energy engineering and management, BEMORE technical partners are resource persons at the training program.

Akeredolu's administration entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with Greenfield Incorporated, in conjunction with a Dutch technical partner from Germany, to establish #42 billion poultry industry, “Greenfield commercial Scale Integrated Poultry” with Powdered Egg Production line, at Emure-Ile in Owo Local Government and has succeeded in creating 1200 employment for the teeming populace. More so, Cassava-to-Ethanol Project at Okeluse, in collaboration with National petroleum Corporation (NNPC), now functions well and has generated 2,500 direct employment.

My dear before you make assumptions take your time to go on research. Ondo state governor embarks on indelible investments that will continue to speak in Ondo state even whe he has completed his second term

Akeredolu's administration has improve the leadership position of Ondo state in Nigeria’s Cocoa production across the entire Cocoa Value Chain on a suitable basis, he embarked on resuscitating The Sunshine Chocolate Factory at Alade-Idanre, which now exports chocolate for foreign earnings and for local consumption. Planting of cash crops has taken place on all the 100 hectares of land requested from all interim local government.

[quotOndo State Government Partners MAX OKADA, Launches Sunshine Safe Bike.


Ondo state government, under the leadership of Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, in the bid to make transportation fast and convenient for the people, went into partnership with MAX OkADA, a motorcycle-taxi operators who has proven worthy over the years for upholding safety and providing accessible and affordable motorcycle service to road pliers.

According to the state governor who took his twitter handle to announce the arrival of the SunshineSafeBike, said the state agreed to partner with Max Okada when they extended their arms of partnership on the ground that they brand their service “SUNSHINESAFEBIKE”.

Akeredolu said his government has offered the team the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade free of charge to train Bikers on Bike safety as incentive. He also said that they are currently working with the state Innovation Hub so as to be intimated on growing developer ecosystem.

The governor responding to a tweet, on how ready and organized Ondo State is to accommodate Max Okada, who they believed does not operate on unorganized Amora and Accomoran? said “Acomoran is very well organized in Ondo State, that the state registration system through the State Information Technology Agency, SITA, all Riders must be registered in Ondo State and that levies have been streamlined since 2018. He made it clear that the conducive environment was the biggest attraction to Max Okada in Ondo State.

This initiative is expected to create job opportunities for the teeming youths as well as make transportation convenient for Ondo State citizenry
Genevieve Alozie
TCC

Ondo State Government Partners MAX OKADA, Launches Sunshine Safe Bike.


Ondo state government, under the leadership of Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, in the bid to make transportation fast and convenient for the people, went into partnership with MAX OkADA, a motorcycle-taxi operators who has proven worthy over the years for upholding safety and providing accessible and affordable motorcycle service to road pliers.

According to the state governor who took his twitter handle to announce the arrival of the SunshineSafeBike, said the state agreed to partner with Max Okada when they extended their arms of partnership on the ground that they brand their service “SUNSHINESAFEBIKE”.

Akeredolu said his government has offered the team the Gani Fawehinmi Arcade free of charge to train Bikers on Bike safety as incentive. He also said that they are currently working with the state Innovation Hub so as to be intimated on growing developer ecosystem.

The governor responding to a tweet, on how ready and organized Ondo State is to accommodate Max Okada, who they believed does not operate on unorganized Amora and Accomoran? said “Acomoran is very well organized in Ondo State, that the state registration system through the State Information Technology Agency, SITA, all Riders must be registered in Ondo State and that levies have been streamlined since 2018. He made it clear that the conducive environment was the biggest attraction to Max Okada in Ondo State.

This initiative is expected to create job opportunities for the teeming youths as well as make transportation convenient for Ondo State citizenry
Genevieve Alozie
The Campaign Concourse TCC

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.

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”

The Governor of Imo State, Rt Hon Emeka Ihedioha, this afternoon Visited Obowo Local Government Area, where a trigger happy police officer shot a young man, Master Ikenna Ukachi.

Crisis ensued between some youths of Otoko in Obowo and the police yesterday, which led to the death of the young man. This however resulted to burning down of the police station, carting away of arms and ammunitions and granting freedom to the detained by irate youths

The Governor after visiting the Divisional Police Headquarters in Obowo which was set ablaze by the youths, also paid a visit to the bereaved family in Umuebea, Umuoke Obowo.

While consoling the family, the governor assured that the trigger happy policeman will be brought to book. He charged the Commissioner of police in the state to fish out the cop, while urging them to ensure that all those who took the laws into their hands are apprehended.

He assured the deceased family that the Government will stand by them and support them at this trying period. He prayed God to grant the soul of Ikenna eternal rest.

The Governor was accompanied by the Deputy Governor, Hon. (Engr) Gerald Irona, the Imo State CP, Ibrahim Ladodo, the Chairman Council of Tradition Rulers, Eze Samuel Agunwa Ohiri, the Special Adviser Security, Mr Raymond Nkemdirim, among other Government functionaries.

The Chief of Staff, Chief Chris Okewulonu alongside other leaders of the area were on hand to receive the Governor.

The gods has spoken. we don't need RUGA in Ondo state

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“It should not be challenging for the government to know those in its employ. We should be able to assess the inputs of our workers. We must move away, decidedly, from a practice which encourages indolence in public service,” Akeredolu charged.
https://citadelng.com/ondos-igr-is-very-low-says-akeredolu/

The wife of Ondo State governor, Chief Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has charged Nigerians to rise up in defence of rape victims in the country.

The wife of the governor was apparently reacting to the case of Biodun Fatoyinbo, the senior pastor of Commonwealth of Zion Assembly (COZA) Who was accused of rape by Busola Dakolo, a celebrity photographer and wife of Timi Dakolo.

Chief Anyanwu-Akeredolu in her flurry of tweets enjoined rape victims to speak up and shame rapists.

While saying Nigerians should stop blaming victims, the wife of the governor called on government to prosecute rapists even if it takes century to disclose what happened.

In total commitment to the Akeredolu led administration, The Ondo West Youth are set for the “ONDO WEST AKETI YOUTH CONFERENCE”. There they will be declaring their loyalty and support for the Akeredolu led administration in total acceptance of his developmental projects in the state.

Thehttps://citadelng.com/ondo-west-youth-set-to-declare-for-akeredolu/ event is stated for the Ademakinwa Olakunle Arrival Mall, Agbogbo Oke Yaba, Opposite First Bank Ondo on the 30th of June 2019.