₦airaland Forum

Kaduna State Understudies Oyo Health Insurance Scheme

HEALTH BY QUICKSILVER

An Eight-Man delegation from Kaduna State Government on Wednesday completed a two day study tour of Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme (OYSIA).

The team led by the Chairman of Kaduna State House of Assembly Committee on Health, Dr. Isaac Zankhai and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Human Resources, Alh. Shehu Muhammed said that they were in Ibadan to under study how the Oyo State Government had initiated the first state insurance scheme in the country.

Dr Zankhai urged the Oyo State Government to remain committed to its vision of ensuring comprehensive quality healthcare coverage for all, saying that Kaduna State would template on the success and challenges of Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme to facilitate its proposed contributory health insurance scheme.

He stated that what they saw during their visit to the Oyo State House of Assembly, Offices of the Head of Service and Commissioner for Health as well as OYSIA office and accredited Hospitals was an eye-opener to them, which would be leveraged on and replicated in their state, thus, commending the Oyo State Government’s determination to reposition the healthcare delivery system in the state.

Receiving the Kaduna State delegation at the caucus room of the state House of Assembly, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Micheal Adeyemo expressed appreciation to the eight-man delegation for embarking on the tour for the benefits of the people of Kaduna State, urging that efforts should be made to make the scheme affordable and accessible.

Rt. Hon. Adeyemo equally extended appreciation to Governor Ajimobi for making the health care delivery system in the state a unique one, adding that the governor placed much premium on effective healthcare delivery which is being supported by the legislators.

The speaker reassured that OYHA. would continue to support the government with the enactment of laws that would boost the development of the state in all facets as well as effective and efficient oversight functions, noting that the state government public enlightenment programme calling on people to embrace the scheme is yielding positive results.

In her own remarks during a visit to her office, the Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs. Hannah Ogunesan stated that programmes initiated by the state government were meant to close the gap in the health sector and provide comprehensive healthcare delivery for the state citizenry, promising that the state would not relent in its avowed determination in the provision of adequate healthcare services for the people of the state at a bearable cost.

While receiving the team, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adedutan disclosed that the scheme has recorded over 20,000 independent enrollees apart from the state civil and public servants, who have been mandated to register for the scheme with minimum premium of N650 monthly, noting that the government is repositioning the health sector for effective service delivery and efforts will be geared towards the renovation of all hospitals in the state through the endowment fund, budgetary provision and support from intervention funds.

In his welcome remarks, the Executive Secretary of the scheme, Dr. Olusola Akande maintained that the approval of the mandatory enrolment of all civil servants in the state on the health insurance scheme has resulted to the wider coverage and sustainable health delivery services in line with international best practices of universal health coverage, adding that cross fertilization of ideas across states would impact on national growth.

He further disclosed that the health care scheme has been extended to all shades of people at all levels in the state, commending Governor Ajimobi for the scientific approach to addressing issues in the health sector of the state and the commitment to make health care system in the state to an enviable height.

Some of the hospitals visited include Jericho Nursing Home, Ibadan, Comfort Medical Centre, Total Garden, Ibadan and Bashorun Oluwo-N-La Primary Healthcare Centre, all of which are partners of the state government on the health insurance scheme.

AJUMOSE INDUSTRIALIZATION & INVESTMENT - #DoYouKnow:

▪That since 2014, Oyo state has been ranked by the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission and Nigerian Bureau of Statistics among the top 5 most investment-friendly states in Nigeria?

▪That before 2013, Oyo state languished in the 26th position amongst the 36 states of the country in terms of investment friendliness and opportunities?

▪That in order to attract investments, #Koseleri focused primarily on ensuring peace and security that once seemed unachievable by past governments?

▪That our state embarked on providing enabling infrastructure for investment opportunities by the way of rural and urban road construction, about 2,000km till date?

▪That #Koseleri also provided administrative infrastructure, setting up a 'Bureau of Investment Promotion' to focus on piloting, procuring & promoting Oyo-centric investments?

▪That a 4000-hectare Free Trade Zone (FTZ) was set up to encourage an influx of both indigenous & foreign investments?

▪That 162 plots of this FTZ has been commissioned as the Polaris Pacesetter Industrial Park, with 157 foreign companies already registering interest to pitch in?

▪That 7 of these foreign companies will start operations by the end of this year, 2017?

▪ That what all these above means to the Oyo state citizen is a minimum of 20,000 gainful jobs, a surge in intra-state commerce, over $250 million turnover, and a bustling economy that breeds wealth for all?

▪That already, in the past 4 years, #Koseleri policies has attracted $65 million in investments and 34 new companies across the state?

Well, now you know!

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseInvestment

By the time the administration of the incumbent governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi ends on May 29, 2019, one thing would have become clear, here was a governor that came and made a difference in the life of the people, in rapid infrastructural renewal, who gave governance a new name and established a legacy of moving Oyo State from a traditional society, to a modern one. Significantly, most of the rapid developments being witnessed in the state are of international standards.

Oyo State, under the watch of Senator Ajimobi, has witnessed unparalleled road construction moving from the construction of narrow, single carriage roads to well-paved, dual carriage ways. Under the watch of this astute administrator, workers now have cause to smile. There are no more delays in monthly salaries.

They had received the 13th month salary for three consecutive years, pension arrears were paid, and they were given car loans, which incidentally were increased from N200,000 to N500,000. Housing loan was increased from N1 million to N2 million; civil servants were sponsored for international training, among many other outstanding landmarks. Workers have never had it so good. But of more impact is the administration’s intervention in areas of urban and infrastructural renewal. Other administrations had come and paid lip-service to the construction of flyovers in strategic locations in the capital city, Ibadan.



They never did until Ajimobi became the state governor. One of the longest overhead bridges was then constructed in the strategic Mokola area, thus reducing traffic lock down in that part of the city. Other major roads constructed under the watch of the man Oyo State people have started calling, ‘The Builder’, ‘Game Changer’, ‘Pathfinder’ include Challenge–Aleshinloye– Dugbe–Eleyele roads.

Still under road construction, the Ajimobi administration also achieved a first. It became the first administration to dualize roads in each of the zones in the state. Major towns and zones like Oyo, Ogbomoso, Iseyin, Ibarapa, Saki, etc. have all become beneficiaries.

No government has ever done this in the history of the state. He was always conscious of the historical antecedent of his state, and the ball must not drop. Western region with Ibadan as capital, from which Oyo State was carved out, had achieved many ‘firsts’. The first radio and television stations in Africa – WNTV (Western Nigeria Television) and WNBS (Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service) were established.

The first stadium, the Liberty Stadium and the first university in Nigeria then known as the University College, Ibadan now known as the University of Ibadan, also came from the Western region. To tackle the environment and remove the tag of the dirtiest city in Nigeria from Ibadan, Senator Ajimobi established the Bureau of Physical Planning and Development Control.



Refuse Disposal Vehicles were purchased while the Solid Waste Management system was restructured. Ibadan is today better for the effort. In transportation management, buses were provided for mass transportation at subsidized cost, free bus services were also provided for students and workers. Concerned about access to clean water, the Ajimobi administration embarked upon massive rehabilitation of the state’s water supply scheme.

Thus, waterworks in Eleyele and Asejire in Ibadan, Iganna, Ayete and Ogbomoso became beneficiaries of the rehabilitation. Governor Ajimobi was fond of saying that development is not haphazard. This is evidenced in placement of structures. One of the first things he did, on assumption of office, was to inaugurate the Ibadan Master plan in conjunction with the World Bank.

The spin off from this was the establishment of housing schemes in the state. Low cost housing units were built and a Home Owners Charter was instituted. New Government Reservation Areas (GRA) was created in different areas – Old Ife road, Ring Ring/Adeoyo, Nihort/Idishin, Elenusonso and Saki, in the Oke-Ogun axis of the state. But an area where the memories of Ajimobi would remain indelible in the minds of the populace is in education. His intervention is deliberate.



As part of his transformation strategy, he realised that education and technological developments are important components. He wanted an appropriate, functional education for the total development of the individual. This led to the establishment of the Schools Governing Board in all the 628 public secondary schools, cancellation of automatic promotion, introduction of Oyo State Model Education System Intervention (OYOMESI).

The name OYOMESI is significant. It was the name given to the seven wise men who select the king or his successor in the old Oyo Empire. Thus, it is expected that if a student had gone through the educational system, he should be better for the experience. Bursary award was made mandatory to encourage students.

Scholarship schemes were also instituted. New blocks of classrooms were constructed. Models schools would soon be commissioned as work had reached completion stage. Over 7,000 teachers were employed in primary and secondary schools.



This was complemented with the employment of education officers which was then extended to the State Library Board. Regular promotions which saw to the upgrade and secondment of primary school teachers to secondary schools were made. The massive investment in education paid off. Oyo State recorded the best result in 18 years in the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE). Health care equally received a boost with the introduction of N50 billion Health Endowment Fund. This was done with the upgrade of health facilities in mind.

Health Insurance Scheme was introduced and this gives access to health care for all. Medical equipment worth $2 million was distributed across hospitals while the Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital was upgraded, maternal and paediatric centres were constructed, State Primary Healthcare Board was established, the School of Nursing and Midwifery was upgraded to Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, this was extended to the School of Hygiene too, which was upgraded to College of Health Technology.

The result of these interventions in health care led to reduction in HIV/AIDs prevalence, down to 1.9 percentage from 3.0 percentage and still going lower. There was massive reduction in maternal mortality while malaria incidence also came down. Desirous of making Oyo State the food basket of the nation, Governor Ajimobi established the Oyo State Agriculture Initiatives (OYSAI) with the objectives of providing food security and poverty alleviation.

The Oyo State Pacesetter Integrated Organic Farms known as the Songhai model was established in Awe in Oyo Zone, leading to several hectares of farmlands being allocated to over 1,000 youth farmers.



Over N1 billion soft loans and grants were provided for farmers, in the vision to ensure food security. For the movement of farm produce, the state embarked on the construction and rehabilitation of access roads across the farming communities in the state. Two fertilizers blending plants were established in Oke Ogun and Ibarapa zones. One can go on and on. But one thing is clear, Senator Ajimobi has clearly made a difference in governance in Oyo State, memories of him would linger forever in the minds of the people on whose lives, the different programmes, have touched. And he is relentless and untiring, second term notwithstanding. “We will work till the last day,” he was fond of telling members of his team.

 

Tunji is Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy to Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi

[center][/center]AjumoseHealthcare: Measles Campaign: Oyo deploys over 8,000 mobilizers across the State
HEALTH BY QUICKSILVER

The Oyo State Government has deployed 8,351 individuals to serve as House to House mobilizers, facilitators, town announcers and social mobilizers for the on-going 2018 measles immunization across the state from March 15 to 27, 2018.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Azeez Adeduntan disclosed this on Thursday in Ibadan during the flag-off of the 2018 measles vaccination campaign at Ibadan North Local Government area.

Dr. Adeduntan said that the present administration in the State is committed to ensuring that children in between the ages of 9months to 5years do not die prematurely, noting that this propelled the state government to engage massive mobilizers for the 2018 measles vaccination campaign to reduce maternal mortality and infant mortality rates.

The Commissioner explained that measles is a very creeping disease which causes pneumonia, rashes, redness of eyes and lips, rough skin, catarrh, and loss of appetite for children, saying that it is important for mothers and carers to get their children immunized.

He stated that the campaign, which will hold from March 15 to 27 across the 33 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and their LCDAs, will be in two phases with the first phase covering 17 local government areas and the second phase will cover the remaining 16 LGAs.

Dr Adeduntan allayed the fears of mothers over the rumour that measles vaccine and immunization kill as well as affect the mental attitude of the underage children, saying that immunization is very important for the well-being of the children with no side effect.

He enjoined mothers and carers in the State to cooperate with health officials to immunize their children in all primaries health care centres and other designated centres assigned for measles immunization exercise within the state to ensure that no child is left behind during the exercise.

In his remarks, the Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Waheed Lanre Abass, said that the board has deployed more than Eighty Thousands individuals to serve as facilitators, town announcers and social mobilizers towards the campaign to cover every nooks and cranny of the state, stressing that the issue of security would be taken care of during the exercise to ensure that children have free access to the measles vaccine.

He however appealed to mothers and care-givers to avail themselves the opportunity of this measles vaccination campaign to get every eligible child from 9 to 59 months participate in measles immunization.

Photo Credit:Tolani Alli

The model schools are nearing completion as the initiator himself accompanied by Commissioners,few of cabinet members went on an inspection tour of some of them today, and there's one thing we can say....

....o sha pra pra!!!

With these schools coming in to complement the policies and reforms already recording successes, Education in Oyo state is about to get even more model!

Again, o sha pra pra

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseEducation
#The builder

Photo Credit: Tolani Alli

OYO: 33 LGAs and 35 LCDAs to benefit from ongoing construction of 150km of roads NEWS BY QUICKSILVER

The Oyo State Government has commenced the construction of 150 kilometres of roads across the state, saying that the move is to ease transportation system and improve the socio economic activities in the state.

The State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Bimbo Kolade said at the weekend during the inspection of construction of asphaltic roads project at Ibadan West Local Council Development Area and Ibadan South West Local Government areas of the state that the roads are being constructed in the 33 Local Government Areas and 35 Local Council Development Areas across the state.

Mr. Kolade stated that the roads are equitably distributed for the benefits of the generality of the people, explaining that each local government with its LCDAs is expected to construct between three to five kilometres of road in their locality.

The commissioner disclosed that the project tagged joint inter State Local Government roads will cover mainly trunk C (Local Governments) roads and some bridges in order to prevent flood disasters in the state.

Kolade stated that infrastructure is one of the key pillars of this administration, hence, government’s commitment to the continued provision and maintenance of a functional network of roads that will enhance socio -economic growth throughout the State, warning that no local government should do a shoddy job but they should rather follow the footsteps of the state government in providing quality infrastructures.

He said that the government will continue with the monitoring process of the projects and consequently enjoined the residents of the beneficiary communities to make good use of it and desist from any activities that can damage the projects.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Aleshinloye International Market, Ibadan, Alhaji AbdulFatia Amubikan said that the market would witness unprecedented development in terms of customer base and more conducive business environment by the time the project is completed, appreciating the Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s administration for the laudable projects.

Among the projects inspected include asphaltic construction with drainage of Aleshinloye International Market road, construction of double box culvert and asphaltic tarring of adjoining road at Popoyemoja, Ibadan. as well as. the asphaltic tarring and construction of hydraulic structures along Azeez/Ayinla, Adetunji Bello Street, Olusanya Area. Ring Road, Ibadan.

https://oyostate.gov.ng/Oyo-commences-construction-of-150km-roads

Understanding the Ajimobi administration | Tunji Bolaji

GUEST CONTRIBUTIONS BY QUICKSILVER

There is no doubt that when the political history of Oyo State is being written, the name of the incumbent governor, Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi, will feature prominently. There are many reasons for this. In the modern democratic history of Oyo state, Governor Ajimobi is the first civilian governor to enjoy two terms in office.

But his tenure goes beyond such feat.

Never in the history of the state has there been infrastructural developments that have been witnessed under the watch of this astute administrator. Indeed, his desire to turn Oyo State into a modern 21st century city has earned him different sobriquets, “The Builder,” “Game Changer,” and “The Pathfinder,” among others.

One would not be too far wrong to state that many are unaware of his giant strides in the development of Oyo State or how he is giving Oyo State a new look. It is also easy to underplay his achievements. But to the discerning and those who have keenly followed happenings in the state, never in the history of modern Oyo State has any governor achieved such feats in infrastructural development.

To understand Senator Ajimobi, it is important to know what motivates him. His words give a clue as to what drives his passion: “I want to be a noble. A noble is a man who serves God and has integrity. I do not want to be too rich or too poor. A poor man will not sleep because he would always think about how to meet his needs, while a rich man would equally not sleep because he would always worry about his wealth. I want to be remembered as a man who made a difference in the lives of people, in the state.”

He is a governor whose burning desire is to take Oyo State into modernity, a city of the 21st century. He is a governor who is convinced that Oyo State must retain its “pacesetter” status in the political and developmental history of the South West, Nigeria and Africa.

Oyo State (Western Nigeria) had always set the pace. It was where the first television station in Africa was established. It was also the region that had the first radio station in the country and Africa, the first stadium and the first university – the University College, Ibadan, now known as the University of Ibadan.

True to his words, when his administration was sworn in on May 29, 2011, he had a clear vision of what he wanted and where he was taking Oyo State, to reposition the state in terms of developments and retain its many firsts in developments. His desire to do this was anchored on three planks of Restoration, Transformation and Repositioning.

To achieve his objectives of restoring the glories of times past and changing the face of the state to a modern one, he knew the appropriate foundation must be established. He realised that no development would take place without a secure environment.

To this end, his first task was to re-launch and reinvigorate the state’s joint security task force, Operation Burst. He did this by making available 20 new patrol vans through the efforts of the state’s Security Trust Fund (OYSSTF), which he had earlier inaugurated. Closed-circuit television cameras (CCTV) were also installed in black spots, under the Safe City Project embarked on by the Governor Abiola Ajimobi-led administration. All these seem to have paid off with absolute peace and security of lives in the state. This fact was reemphasised recently by the state police chief, Mr. Abiodun Odude, when he described Oyo State as the most peaceful in the country.

Taking off from there, Senator Ajimobi identified five crucial pillars for developmental purposes and achieving his agenda. For a 21st century state of his dream, education and technology are appropriate and complementary tools that must be properly situated in the development agenda. He realised that the strength of leading, developed and developing countries is in education and technology.

“An appropriate, functional education tailor-made to fit our environment,” was how he put it. He quickly identified three things wrong with the current education system, the education was not functional and not suited for the environment; two, it lacked entrepreneurial mix, which should make it result-oriented; and, lastly, it lacked character, which is the building block that would turn out responsible and respectable citizens. Indeed, he was scandalised at the total lack of respect exhibited by students.

He was of the view that character building is also part of the complete education package. Products of such education must be upright citizens, have respect for elders and be the epitome of good and proper behaviour.

The problem with the current education was forcefully brought home to him during his encounter with students of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, which led to the “constituted authority” scene. To him, inasmuch as students should have the freedom to express themselves, it should be under the ambit of respect for elders, colleagues and acquaintances.

He sees that as good breeding, complete education and the ‘complete man’. To Governor Ajimobi, education that is unable to imbue students with good breeding and character is incomplete.

To achieve this concept of complete education, he set up the Schools Governing Board (SGB). Apart from the above stated reasons, the idea was also to ensure that parents are fully involved in the education of their children. Like all changes, this came with its opposition, but the governor was resolute about the way to go.

With the inauguration of the board, education in Oyo State took a different turn. A stop was quickly put to the strange idea of promoting students to the next class or on trial, irrespective of performance. Today, Oyo State is reaping the result. In the last West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) result, Oyo State recorded the best result in 18 years.

The state government ensured teachers’ salaries were paid, they were duly promoted and the teachers repaid the gesture with performance. A Technical University, different from the universities of technology, was established, to create manpower in the much-needed technical areas. Graduates of the institution are expected to have at least three vocational skills, to ensure their independence and be self-employed after graduation instead of looking for white-collar jobs. Indigent students were offered scholarship by the institution.

Senator Ajimobi’s second pillar of development is in the area of agriculture. In the southern part of the country, Oyo State has the largest expanse of land suitable for agriculture. The state also has the highest number of research institutes in the country. The government has tapped into these advantages. The state has about 360,000 hectares of land, 250,000 hectares are now devoted to agriculture. Presently, Oyo State is the number one producer of cassava. Cassava alone has about 15 different value chains, which the administration has tapped into.

The governor is encouraging farmers to plant and he is creating buyers, even beyond the shores of the country, for the output. Cashew nut is gradually becoming a money-spinner and there are several Indian nationals in the Ogbomoso axis of the state who have equally tapped into this money-spinner. Governor Ajimobi’s next focus was on tradition and culture. With a state rich in culture, history of the old Oyo Empire, the use of the Oyo’s Yoruba in the WASSCE, establishment of first radio and television station, establishment of the first university in Ibadan, he decided to build on these legacies by making Oyo State the film capital of Nigeria.

The groundwork for this had already been laid and work to this effect has already begun within the expansive premises of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (because). The fourth pillar is provision of affordable health services. This led to the establishment of the state health insurance scheme. The last of the pillars is industrialization.

To assure this, the government embarked on massive road construction with particular targets of roads leading into and out of the major cities in the state. Here, the government also established a first. It became the first administration to dualize roads in each of the zones in the state.

Major towns and zones like Oyo, Ogbomoso, Iseyin, Ibarapa, Saki, etc have all become beneficiaries of these massive roads construction. No government has ever done this in the history of the state. The administration equally created a development corridor to achieve the objective of industrialization. To further give Industrialization a boost, the state went into partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).

Another first in the country. The aim is to establish an integrated agro industrial park and to support small and medium scale enterprises. China has also bought into the industrialization project with a planned injection of $5billion (N1.8trillion), at first instance, to develop the newly established Polaris-Pacesetter Free Trade Zone, along the Ibadan-Lagos expressway.

As at today, close to 150 investors from Asian countries have signified interest in investing in the state’s free trade zone. These are some of the outcome of Gov Ajimobi’s trips outside the country. It was also what informed his recent trip to Denmark. The Denmark trip has started to yield results. Cattle farmers in that country would soon visit Oyo state with the aim of transferring knowledge in ranching and ultimately enhance local beef output in local and international markets.

Also, Arla, a major international player in the diary business is in talks with the state government to enhance opportunities in the cattle rearing business and further encourage farmers in modern agriculture method. All these were embarked upon to fulfill the desire of Governor Ajimobi to make Oyo state the food basket of the country. But more importantly, Oyo state has the appropriate and conducive environment for doing business, indeed, it is ranked 4th in the ease of doing business in the country.

• Tunji is Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy to Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi

Oyo shuts eight facilities for quackery, receives 34 motorcycles for surveillance

Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to the eradication of quackery in the health sector with the closure of eight facilities, warning that the training of auxiliary nurses in private facilities would not be tolerated in the State.

The State Government said that it is against the ethics that guides the profession for training of nurses in private facilities which lead to quackery, explaining that there are 12 qualified institutions in Oyo State that train nursing students in tandem with best practices across the globe.

Also, the Government announced receiving 34 motorcycles to improve surveillance and ensure that the population of Oyo State attains the highest standard of health.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adeduntan, while leading the task force of the Ministry of Health on a routine monitoring exercise and inspection of private health care facilities within Ibadan metropolis, urged that anybody who is interested in going to medical school to become a qualified nurse should go to a nursing school established and identified by the State Government.

Speaking through the Director of Secondary Health Care and Training, Dr. Ayoola Adebisi, the Commissioner stated that to be qualified as a nurse, weeding test is very important to pass in order to participate in capping and knotting of tie ceremony which will confirm the certification of professionalism.

Dr Adeduntan pointed out that eight out of eleven facilities visited were closed for quackery practices, illegal operations, unqualified medical personnel, and failure to maintain the minimum standard of practice, noting that they were not also registered with the government.

The Commissioner noted that the monitoring exercise is not to witch-hunt anybody or private health care facilities in the State but to sanitize the system and ensure that they comply with the rules and regulations guiding the operations of private health care facilities, noting that the monitoring will be a continuous exercise.

Among the areas visited by the task force are Apete, Awotan,  Ijokodo, Arometa, Sango, and Mokola area in Ibadan.

Dr. Adeduntan, while handing over the motorcycles donated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) in Ibadan noted that surveillance is key for the control, elimination and eradication of diseases plaguing the society.

He added that one of the main obstacles to active surveillance is the availability of a means of locomotion to reach remote health facilities and communities in sensitizing people on priority diseases under surveillance such as yellow fever, cholera and other outbreak of diseases that may occur in the State.

The Commissioner however assured the World Health Organization (WHO) that the state government would make maximum use of the motorcycles.

In her remarks, the representative of State Coordinator of World Health Organization (WHO) Dr. Ada Erinle said that WHO is committed to supporting the efforts of the State Government aimed at promoting and protecting the health of citizens of Oyo State since Government cannot do it alone.

According to her, the aim of this initiative is to serve as a quick response to any outbreak of diseases that may occur in the community.

Dr. Erinle said that the motorcycles were purchased with the support of other donors for all local government areas (LGAs) and State diseases surveillance and notification officers (DSNOs) in Nigeria with a reflective jacket and helmet for each motorcycle.

 

‘Toye Arulogun

Hon Commissioner, 

Min.of Info., Culture & Tourism,

Oyo State Government

Ibadan Technical University Matriculates Pioneer 190 students, installs Afolabi as first Pro-ChancellorEDUCATION BY QUICKSILVER
The Technical University, Ibadan, which is the first of its kind in the country, has matriculated 190 pioneer students, in a ceremony that coincided with the installation of an oil magnate, Chief Tunde Afolabi, as the institution’s first chancellor and chairman of council.

The ceremonies, including the turning of the sod for the proposed AMNI Energy and Petroleum Training Institute for the university, being championed by Afolabi, were performed by the Governor of Oyo State and Visitor to the institution, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, at the university complex, on Friday.

The university, which was the brainchild of the Ajimobi-led administration as a public-private partnership, had begun academic activities in January 2018 with 150 students, with 40 more students enrolling on the eve of matriculation.
In his address at the occasion, an elated Ajimobi said that the matriculation of the first set of freshers of the university was a dream come true, given the initial cynicism of some citizens about the possibility of establishing the university.



The governor expressed gratitude to Afolabi for honoring the call to serve humanity by taking up the role of chancellorship, stressing that his exceptional background and international network would enhance the growth of the university.
Ajimobi said, “To say this ceremony is epochal is to say the least. We are today witnessing history, as the idea that was conceived by our administration with full commitment of notable individuals is here birthed today.

“A good leader will not only take his people to where they want to go, but to where they ought to be. I salute the commitment of the committee that worked to give birth to this glory, led by Prof. Oladapo Afolabi, a former Head of Service of the federation.

“If this were to be a pregnancy, today is its delivery. If it were to be an idea, today is its realization. With Chief Tunde Afolabi in the saddles, I foresee this university taking its pride of place not only in Nigeria but in the international arena.

“I went to a public secondary school and my parents were not financially buoyant, but today, I am the governor. With this advantage you have today, you are expected to be at the forefront of leadership in our country and the world tomorrow.”

He challenged the pro-chancellor and the council members to hit the ground running by seeking immediate and effective partnerships within and outside the country for the benefit of the students and especially for the self-sustenance of the institution as a PPP.

The governor called on the council and management team of Tech-U to recruit first class academics to equip students with requisite technical and managerial skills that would stand them in good stead in the global market.

Ajimobi admonished the pioneer students to take advantage of what he called a lifetime opportunity by being serious with their studies to ensure that they became future graduates with technical ability to stand on their own.

In his remarks, Afolabi appreciated the governor for appointing him to the role of piloting the ship of the new university, with a promise to do his best to make the institution a household name in the nearest future.

He announced his readiness to establish AMNI Energy and Petroleum Training Institute at the university, which he said would take immediate effect as well as an annual lecture that would attract professionals of international repute.
The turning of the sod for the proposed institute was performed as part of the ceremonies by the governor.

In his address, the VC said that the university had already discovered about ten inherent vocational skills among the first set of students for which an enabling environment for honing of the skills were being provided.

Salami added that French language was being taught as a second official language to boost foreign opportunities for the students after their academic programmes, with a promise not to relent in his efforts at accelerating development in the institution.

He said, “I therefore wish to assure the stakeholders in this venture that as the pioneer VC, I will not spare any effort to accelerate the pace of development at this university, so that we can leave an unmistaken and indelible impression about the uniqueness of this university among its peers in Nigeria and beyond.”

God Bless the Ajimobis & Gandujes Families.

Politicians and Monarchs celebrates with families of Gov Ajimobi and Gandujes as their children - Idris Ajimobi and Fateemah Ganduje tie marital knots today.

A former Governor of Oyo state,Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala,a former Senate leader Senator Teslim Folarin,the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi leading a handful of other eminent Oyo state monarchs,Hausa Community leaders,Chief of Staff Dr.Gbade Ojo, Commissioners, S.A. Mr.Niyi Ajao and many others all seen here set to celebrate with the families

May God Bless The Union.

The Oyo State Government through the Sustainable Development Goals Office has constructed 15 motorized boreholes in some major markets in the state.

The State Commissioner for Finance and Budget, Mr. Abimbola Adekanmbi at the commissioning of one of the boreholes at Bodija Market, Ibadan, explained that the project was completed through the Conditional Grants Scheme, noting that the project is in line with achieving Goals 3 and 6 of the SDG which is Good Health and Clean Water Sanitation.

Adekanmbi, who is the also the Chairman of the Conditional Grants Scheme, said that the boreholes tagged Ajumose Water Points have been provided with a standby generator, stating that Bola Ige International Gbagi, Ibadan, Bembo Market, Apata, Ibadan, Eleeka Market, Oyo, Bodija Market, Ibadan Saasa Market, Ibadan and Towobowo Market, Igboora, the largest market in Ibarapa zone of the state, are some of the beneficiaries of the project.

He pointed out that two of the boreholes are located at Sabo Market, Ibadan, while Omi Adio Market, Apata, Ibadan, Obanisunwa Market, Ayete, Aaraada Market, Ogbomoso, Odo-Oba Market, Odo-Oba, Ogo-Oluwa, Oja Agbe Market, Iseyin, Olorunda Market, Iganna and Owode Market, Igboho have one each.

Speaking at the commissioning, the State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun said that the market men and women are integral parts of the government, promising that the government will provide more infrastructures for the people of the state.

He said that the informal sector is key to the increased IGR of the state, stating that more is expected from the market men and women to ensure that the government provides more facilities for the people.

In his address, the Special Adviser to Governor Abiola Ajimobi on SDG, Engineer Tope Fajana said that the Ajumose Water Points will go round all the markets in the state, stressing that the project is meant to ensure provision of clean and potable water to the citizenry of the state.

Engineer Fajana charged the committees entrusted with the management of the boreholes not to shy away from their responsibilities by taking care of the project which is aimed at ensuring smooth business activities in the communities.

He enjoined the communities and traders in the markets to make good use of the facilities, noting that SDG will not relent in its efforts to bring succor to the people of the state.

While speaking, the Babaloja of Bodija Market, Abattoir section, Alhaji Ganiyu Olobo expressed appreciation to the state government for the project which demonstrated government’s commitment to the traders and consequently assured that the borehole will be adequately used and managed by the people in the market.

Alhaji Olobo said that water is germane to their business and what the government has done will go a long way to ensure that people have access to clean potable water.

Time for the youth to prepare, says Oyo state commissioner for finance

The Oyo state commissioner for finance, Mr Bimbo Adekanbi, has urged the youth to be fully prepared. He made the statement on Thursday at his office.

In his speech, he advised the youth to prepare for the worst. The youth need to be mentally, spiritually, educationally, and morally prepared as their time is now. Incase any opportunity comes, they will be able to grab it.

He further said that the youth should not expect government to do all the needful. As youth, we've an important role to play. When we are ready, we can change the society with fresh blood. All we need to do is to prepare ourselves down.

This is the time for the youth to effect better change. We really need to advocate support for the youth. Not just any how youth, but those with great ideas and prospect. He also talked on bureaucracy and urged us to watch Governor Elrufai video clips on YouTube. Added to this is by getting a copy of General Ibrahim Babangida article on youth advocacy.

Meanwhile during our discussion, I spot him with a question on my Alma matta, LAUTECH, and was very exceptional in his response. He responded brilliantly and caught me unaware of some fact.

He made me realize that governments are to pay salaries, not subvention. In academics, Government don't pay salary. We only provide subvention. However, the literal meaning of subvention need to be understood. "Subvention is a grant of financial aid from government to an educational institution"
We collect money from federal government and pay salary first, amongst others. The budget LAUTECH management brought last year was the same with what they have again. Their budget never reflect fact that there's recession.

The government is not interested in any institution's money but a budget review. We need to know what each institution is generating and to monitor it. He said.

While we appreciate the Coordinator of the meeting, in person of Comrade inaolaji Akinloye, who's the coordinator of Ajimobi's disciples, we wish to appreciate Leader Generalisimo, comrade Lufe for their beautiful talk-show during the meeting.

Oyedeji Ahmed writes
( LMP )
0804372225
16th of February, 2018

Soka, Ibadan - now synonymous with schooling, not kidnapping | These are the kind of victories that must not go uncelebrated; this, is the kind of victory that our government(s) - both the FG and especially the present Oyo state government

Soka, Ibadan - now synonymous with schooling, not kidnapping |

These are the kind of victories that must not go uncelebrated; this, is the kind of victory that our government(s) - both the FG and especially the present Oyo state government - should be applauded for.

Can you believe that that same "Evil Forest" which made Soka infamous for kidnapping, has now been transformed to a site housing a well-equipped school named the Oyo State Comprehensive Model School, and in-turn now making Soka famous for academic excellence

Just check out these pictures.....

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseEducation
#Soka #KnowOyo

How School Governing Board Are Changing The Face Of Education In Oyo State.

The School Governing Board (SGB) introduced by the Oyo State government exactly a year ago, has improved the decision-making processes and made schools to be more responsive to local needs. It was also estimated that the various boards have invested about N5 billion in development of school infrastructure.

Members of the board comprised of old students, philanthropists, school prefects, principals, religious leaders, inspectors, local council chairmen and other stakeholders. Their primary responsibility was to monitor activities, performance and infrastructural development of schools.


The boards have influenced government decisions in many ways and led to the establishment of more structures in public schools with the support of the old students and other stakeholders.
Old students on the boards have strived to increase aesthetic values of their schools by producing best students.

Among the efforts of the SGB’s across the state are; hiring of teachers to complement government teachers, construction of modern chemistry laboratory, roads, new blocks of classrooms, landscaping, adoption of students for free education and donation of clothes to indigent students.

Each of the board members had a role to play in ensuring the success of schools. While prefects ensured punctuality of the students, the principals gave adequate punishment on deviant behavior; philanthropists provided funding for schools facilities and the community leaders gave necessary supports to the school authorities.

The Commissioner for Education, Professor Joseph Adeniyi Olowofela, described the scheme as a magic wand in the provision of school infrastructure.

Olowofela said the erection of new structures in schools and renovation of dilapidated ones were frequently handled by old students and that the state had received completed projects on a weekly basis.

“Our people are now competing to contribute to the infrastructural development in our schools. An old student of Lagelu Grammar School where our governor graduated from, recently donated a building worth N120 million to the school.

The governor himself has also promised to give them a big auditorium from his own pocket.

“I am also aware that the Government College, Ibadan has also set aside the sum of N125 million for school infrastructure. I heard they are still canvassing for funds globally because their target was N1 billion. Ibadan Boys High School is also doing its own. The SGB was not politically motivated,” he said.

The commissioner said the membership of the board cut across various interest groups and political parties and members provided support to their schools of interest. He said members do not receive financial support from the government and that their work was voluntary.

He said, “The investments from the school boards cannot be less than N5 billion without the effort of the state government. “The N5 billion is for the old students association. The state government on its own recently approved N2 billion for rehabilitation of 100 schools in the state.”

He said the state has also approved N3.6 billion for rehabilitation and constructions in primary schools and so far N10 billion was spent on primary and secondary schools in the state in one year.

The commissioner said all the secondary schools in the state are now under the control of the governing boards.

He said people were not receptive to new ideas in school administration at the initial stage but positive results were recorded from the initiatives.
He said, “Our performance in national examinations is speaking volumes. In last year’s SSCE, Oyo State had 54.4 per cent and that is the best in the last 19 years.

“When you look at our performance index in the past, the best we had was 21.4 per cent.

“Also in NECO, Oyo State has the highest number of pass though we came second in rating. However, Ogun State that came first with 5,000 while Oyo State has 7,000.

We believe that any government that succeeds this government won’t change the policies in our education sector.”

Speaking with Daily Trust, the President of Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, Old Boys Association, Professor Olufemi Omisore, said the effort of Oyo State government to improve the standard of education in the state through SGB was admirable.


He said during the 60th anniversary of the Lagelu Grammar School, the old students donated over N250 million for infrastructural development in the school, noting that the amount was different from what other notable individuals pledged to contribute.

Similarly, a Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Chief Adebayo Adelabu, donated a Study Centre to Lagelu Grammar School.
He said the state government has proved that there were ways to improve standard of learning, including through public participation.

The chairman, Board of Trustees (1991 set) of Ibadan Boys High School, Mr. Raji Adebayo, said opening school development to old students in the state was the greatest thing that ever happened to education in the state.

He said old students in his former school have donated over N100 million in their effort to give back to the society, help those in need and contribute to the common good.

NCC PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR OYO’S ICT VISION, TECHNICAL VARSITY – Oyo Lawa!

The Nigerian Communications Commission has stated its preparedness to partner Oyo State in its drive to become an Information Communication Technology (ICT) hub, because of the state’s ranking as the fourth largest telecommunication services consumer.

The commission’s Executive Commissioner, Stakeholders Management, Mr. Sunday Dare, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, in his office, on Tuesday.

To this end, he said that the NCC would provide free internet services at the state-owned Technical University, Ibadan (Tech-U) by the end of July, as part of the commission’s support for the governor’s vision for establishing the university.

Dare said that the support would improve the educational and economic status of the state as free Wi-Fi would be available for students of Tech-U to access world-class academic materials and exchange programmes.

He said, “It is important for us to visit Oyo State because your (Ajimobi’s) administration has set up necessary pillars for sustainable benefits accruable from ICT. One is the Technical University, which is unique in nature. We are also monitoring your other steps towards building an industrialized economy for the state.

“Fiber optic lines will be laid to connect the institution with other universities and polytechnics in order to acquire synergy in academic and social aspects.

“Being the fourth largest in the country in telecommunication services patronage, Oyo State stands to benefit more from ICT, because modern development is attached to technology. We will assist the development of ICT in Oyo State in our own little way.”

In his response, the governor called on the commission to expedite action on their promised support in other to enhance the technological objectives of his administration, particularly his determination to make the state an ICT hub.

Ajimobi said, “Your visit is timely, particularly during this period when our repositioning agenda is at its peak in the state. We have deliberately ensured that our repositioning agenda is tailored towards making the state a hub of ICT.

“The technical university was established as the main thrust and springboard for this vision. And with this, I can say that we are emulating those countries that are at the forefront of global development. I thank and appreciate the NCC for this gesture.

“We will appreciate it more if you can expedite action on the support you have promised us for the university so that our aspirations towards growing an economy anchored upon technology would be achievable in record time”

Oyo approves rehabilitation of Ibadan-Iseyin road, others for 7bn
February 8, 2018 admin

Oyo State Executive Council has approved the rehabilitation of the 65km Moniya-Ojutaye-Iseyin Road for the sum of Six Billion, Nine Hundred and Fifty Two Million, Five Hundred and Sixty Five Thousand  and Seventy Four Naira, Ninety Seven Kobo Only (6,952,565,074.97), saying that the project is expected to be completed in 18months.

The Council also approved the 3.6 km Phase 1 Asphaltic Rehabilitation/Construction of Baptist Grammar School Junction (Idi-Ishin)-Agbofieti-All Saints College-Itafaji-Wire and Cable Junction Road Ibadan for the sum of One Hundred and Twenty Million Naira only (N120,000,000).

The State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, who disclosed these in Ibadan on Thursday said that the Executive council also approved the supply and installation of Solar powered Street lights along Dandaru/Parliament Road junction to secretariat Roundabout to Government House/SUBEB Junction (lot 1) at a cost of N94,607,463.89 and 110/Odo-Ona Roundabout to Liberty Road/Ring Road Roundabout Junction (lot 2) at a cost of N50,521,628.37.

He stressed that the cost of the two projects (lot 1 & 2)  amount to a total sum of One Hundred and Forty-Five Million, One Hundred and Twenty-Eight Thousand, Nine Hundred and Twenty-Seven Naira, Seventy-Eight Kobo (N145,128,927.78).

Arulogun stated that the 65km  Moniya-Ojutaye-Iseyin road has been awarded to M/S Oladiran Engineering and Trade Nigeria Limited, explaining that the contractor was picked after careful evaluation for both technical and financial responsiveness by the state Consultants on Road Projects under the leadership of Reyog International Nigeria Limited.


He pointed out that 30% of the contract sum will be paid to the contractor as advance payment subject to the provision of an open-ended advance payment guarantee from a reputable bank.

The commissioner said that the road will boost both intra and intercity transport links, improve trade, drastically reduce intercity transport connection, encourage trade and investment as well as to generally bring about better socio-economic development to the citizenry, noting that this is in line with the Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s philosophy to decongest traffic at all entrances and exits to the state as part of the massive infrastructural development going on in the state.

The Government spokesman added that the Phase 1 Asphaltic Rehabilitation/Construction of Baptist Grammar School Junction (Idi-Ishin) to Itafaji-Wire and Cable Junction will be handled through direct labour by the state Ministry of Works and Transport, assuring that the 4.0km phase of the road will be executed after the completion of phase 1.

Mr. Arulogun said that the contract for the supply and installation of solar–powered street lights has been awarded to Messrs. Technosound Global Investment Limited, saying that the supplier will be mobilized with 60% of the contract sum and the balance of 35% paid after the successful completion of the project while the 5% Retention fee will be released after six months of defect liability.

He said that all the projects were approved after due process has been followed, adding that the government will ensure that they are executed according to specifications and in consonance with international best practices.

Ajimobi, Amaechi, Ganduje, Abubakar in private meeting in Ibadan – Oyo Lawa!

The governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi is presently playing host to his counterparts from Jigawa and Kano State, Governor Badaru Abubakar and Governor Umar Ganduje respectively as well as the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi and the APC national secretary, Alhaji Mai Mala Buni.

Ajimobi and his visitors, as at the time of filling this report are still in the Oyo State Government House, Ibadan where they were having a private meeting.

Although the issues being discussed were not made known to the journalist, feelers have it that the private meeting had to do with the sundry issues within the party and the recent incursion of herdsmen across the country.

Ajimobi was overheard while welcoming the visitor commending the Governor Ganduje on his initiative of addressing the cattle ranching issue that has been causing serious misunderstanding between farmers and herdsmen across the country.

None of the visitors addressed the press nor answered any question when approached by journalists.

The visitors who stormed the Agodi Governor’s Office at about 6: 40 pm, was initially received by the governor himself in his private office before leaving for the government house House in their convoy of vehicles, where the private meeting is holding.

Journalists who had stormed the governors private office where visitors were usually hosted, expecting to be briefed and address on the mission of the visitors were jolted and disappointed when on the entry of the governor to the private office, were told to excuse the group, with Governor Ajimobi emphasizing that the visit is a private visit.



As at the time of filing the report, no report, no news has been released on the visit by the visitor who was also gathered that would be on their way to Lagos immediately after the private meeting.

AHEAD OF 2019:Governor Ajimobi receives Governor of Kano Abdullahi Ganduje,Governor Abubakar of Jigawa,Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and Mallam Ibrahim Bala Gabi National Secretary of the APC at the Government House Ibadan.

Photo Credit:Tolani Alli

Who should succeed Governor Ajimobi come 2019? – Oyo Lawa!

No, it’s not too early to talk about this. In just about a year or less according to the election calendar recently released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), indigent and resident Pacesetters will queue in franchise to elect a new Governor to oversee the affairs of Oyo state for another four years.

More so, because it is clear that gubernatorial politicking has already kicked off in earnest at different party coffers and along interest lines, it is pertinent that the electorates start reasoning together regarding what this state deserves moving forward.

Oyo state is a strategic state in the scheme of a wide range of things both in the southwest and in the nation as a whole. Over the past years, especially those years mid-democracy, the state somewhat drifted off its pacesetting path and got stuck with the shenanigans of violence and mire of murky politics.

The incumbent and outgoing government obviously realized this and came with a tri-point promise and agenda of restoration, transformation, and repositioning, and to be fair, they’ve ran with it in these 6-7 years.
The Governor Abiola Ajimobi-led government have been able to set a fundamental tone to make Oyo state stand shoulder to shoulder with serious states as regards the indices of modern development and people-based governance.

If one objectively considers the landmark moves the incumbent government has made in sectors like security, education, agriculture infrastructure and commerce, without mincing words, it’ll be admittable that truly, a repositioning has been successfully achieved with Oyo state via these key sectors, and thus, laying a tractable and solid foundation upon which further smarts of good governance can be easily erected by any succeeding government.

In fact, as a dot in reference and without the risk of sounding unaware, one could comfortably liken these incumbent years of Governor Ajimobi in Oyo state to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s 1999-2007 Lagos; a situation of similarity where political will and reflective governance is deliberately deployed to set a foundation and create a vision for the state, such that with subsequent governments, strides of development can be achieved almost on autopilot.


Governor Abiola Ajimobi obviously stuck to his restoration, transformation and repositioning agenda. Photo credit: Tolani Alli

And, this is why the talk about who takes over from Governor Ajimobi to lead and serve Oyo state, is a matter that possesses progressive importance.

Of a truth, there are a swathe of prospects Oyo state is ripe for and needs to step into, with a head at the helm leading the charge. For one, Oyo needs to maximize its expanse for greater good. It is high time the Pacesetter state steered away from beneath the shadow of Lagos state and hold its own. Without sounding unrealistic, with our state’s geographic and people expanse, its deposit of arable, mineral and tourism wealth, Oyo is rightly repositioned to vie as Nigeria’s macroeconomic nerve centre, if not Africa’s. Basically, it’s high time Oyo rises to become the face of sterling governance in the southwest and I think the country through its leadership.

And as said above, the present government have been able to put the house in order to make sure these bigger and befitting gains of governance are installed in the state. Security, which is development’s main precursor, has been assured, such that there’s even talk of CCTV installation at major city centers; there’s an industrial park and a free trade zone with excellent possibilities; also a Technical University that foreruns the possibility of a world-grade tech hub, and many other quite endless possibilities only achievable if a suitable successor is presented and elected come 2019.

Well, it is always intriguing to watch as the political juices flow from pillar to post, from party to party, and from aspirant to aspirant along the lines of tribal or zonal sentiments, especially as the pre-election machinations and calculations enter prime gear; but, while all these go on, those who really care should know that whoever will be put forward to succeed Ajimobi must not be just a politically-correct, sybaritic and senescent individual whose medieval policies will reverse the repositioning Oyo has undergone so far.

The cap could truly fit many, but the question we should ask is about who has the ‘head’. Oyo state cannot afford to dance aback when it comes to leadership as we approach the election year. Any and every well-meaning Oyo state indigene will agree that for Oyo to achieve the many befitting and lofty heights, whoever must be put forward to succeed the incumbent must be an almost apolitical choice who fits an upwardly-mobile, modernistic, copiously cerebral and dynamic description, and whose administrative wit has been tested in the public and/or private sector

Source: www.oyolawa.com
Photo credit :Tolani Alli

Ajimobi approves 2012–2016 workers’ promotion as Public/Civil service games begin – Oyo Lawa!

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has approved the immediate release of years 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 promotions in the state Civil/Public Service of Oyo State.

The outgoing Head of Service, Mr. Soji Eniade made this disclosure in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan.

Mr. Eniade said that the governor is greatly committed to the welfare of workers in the state, pledging that the kind gesture would be adequately reciprocated by workers in the state through hard work and commitment while in the service of Oyo State.

The HOS charged workers in the state to be diligent, dedicated, devoted, committed and work assiduously towards ensuring financial sufficiency for the state, stating that the ongoing restructuring exercise in the civil/public service was embarked upon to clean and sanitize the system.

He solicited the support and cooperation of workers for the state government towards achieving desirable results in the ongoing state Public/Civil service reform in order to uplift the system to an enviable height.

Mr Eniade emphasized that the restructuring exercise of the government is not meant to witch-hunt anybody, saying that what the government is doing is a standard periodic self-check which is standard practice throughout the world where quality service delivery is expected.

The outgoing Head of Service commended the state governor for his wise and bold decisions that have kept the state afloat despite the present economic situation in the country, urging that workers should reciprocate the governor’s kind gesture with commitment, efficiency and effectiveness in discharging their duties.

Also, Mr. Eniade at the commissioning of the Sports equipment for the 2018 Oyo State Public Service Games held at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, explained that the re-awakened Public/Civil Service games will enhance good health and spirit of friendship among the workforce in the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

He said that the games will be held every Tuesday at the Civil Service Club, Pavilion at the front of the Oyo State House of Assembly, and Lekan Salami Sports Complex, noting that there would be 10 mental games as well as 10 physical games.

Earlier, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Abayomi Oke appreciated the civil servants for their massive turnout despite the short notice, adding that the game would be an annual inter-ministerial competition and the winners will represent Oyo State in the National Public Service Games.

Among the participants at the opening ceremony of the Games were incoming Head of Service, Mrs. Olawumi Ogunesan, Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, Permanent Secretaries from various MDAs among others.

Ajimobi approves 2012–2016 workers’ promot

Oyo Small & Medium-scale Industries receive N20bn boost from BOI – Oyo Lawa!

The Bank of Industry has disbursed N18bn, out of the N20bn intervention fund meant to enhance the expansion of the small and medium-scale industries in Oyo State.

The Managing Director, BOI, Mr. Olukayode Pitan, disclosed this when he led the management team on a courtesy visit to the Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, at his office, in Ibadan, on Tuesday.

Given its size and comparative advantage, he said that Oyo State was in a vantage position to contribute hugely to the quest by the bank to reposition the country’s economy through the empowerment of SMIs.

Pitan explained that industrial concerns were the beneficiaries of the N18bn already disbursed, stressing that the N2bn balance was meant for other beneficiaries who were yet to access the fund.

He said, “Oyo State is very dear to the heart of our organization due to its centrality to Lagos, which is an African commercial nerve center and for the rest of the country. So, we are supporting a lot of industries in Oyo State.

“Out of the N20 billion approved for the state, N18 billion had been disbursed to beneficiaries in the SMIs. The balance of N2bn is yet to be disbursed. This gesture is solely because of the importance of Oyo State as the gateway between Lagos, and the Southern and Northern Nigeria.

“The giant stride of the current administration in Oyo State is obvious to all in the areas of physical infrastructure, urban renewal and industrialization. You are a builder and we want to build Oyo State with you.”

In his response, the governor called on the bank to look closely at the possibility of funding the emerging technological hub in the state, as well as agriculture due to the pivotal roles the governor said both could play in making the state another commercial haven.

Ajimobi said that the state lost its commercial glory over a period of time due to the negligence of the SMIs by successive administrations, adding that his administration was working round the clock to revamp the economy of the state.

He said, “The position of Oyo State in geographical, historical and commercial dominance in the past was overtaken by other states due to the neglect of SMIs. But, since our coming we have been working hard to harness the potential of the state in order to restore the lost glory.

“The present development in Oyo State was premised on security, social infrastructure and industrialization. We believe in using technology to turn things around. This is why we established the Free Trade Zone, Technical University and other technical corridors.

“This is the area we believe your bank’s intervention is mostly needed and useful. Lack of middle-level manpower in Nigeria, which has become an economic albatross, is where your bank can come in and assist investors.

“Also, in the area of agriculture Oyo State is known to be a major producer of cashew nuts. Today, agriculture is the only venture in which political office holders are also allowed to invest, according to the constitution. So, we want you to devote more funds to this as well.”

Ibadan CCTV project is one of many proofs Ajimobi’s 2nd term means well – Aboderin – Oyo Lawa!

The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Oyo State Governor on Public Affairs, Deji Aboderin, yesterday said the proposed Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) to monitor activities in volatile areas will begin soon.

He said the governor had proven that he did not seek a second term for selfish reasons.

Aboderin said Governor Abiola Ajimobi had dispelled the notion that second term governors don’t always perform well.

The governor’s aide spoke in Ibadan, the state capital, on the achievements of the state government in the past two years.

He said his ambition to seek election into the House of Representatives was still alive.

Aboderin said: “I do not believe in praising or criticising a government that has not spent up to two years in power. Every government needs appreciable time to work before people can assess it. I have deliberately avoided making comments on the performance of Governor Ajimobi’s government in this second term.

“To be fair to the government, it has achieved quite a lot to dispute the notion that second term governors don’t always perform. We all knew that he did well in the first term and he consolidated on it with the number of roads that are either being constructed or rehabilitated across the state.

“For any economy to develop, you must put infrastructure and security in good shape. Soon, the installation of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) will begin in volatile areas of the state.

“We are witnessing a huge improvement in the Education sector in the state. Apart from the governing boards for schools, six model schools are nearing completion. The establishment of a Technical University, creation of Education Trust Fund and reward for best pupils in final secondary school examination are some of the steps that the government.”

Ibadan CCTV project is one of many proofs Ajimobi’s 2nd term means

Oyo Targets N112bn IGR For 2018

Estimated revenue of N112.09 billion is to be generated by Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as the Board of Internal Revenue (IGR) in Oyo state in 2018.

The breakdown of the 2018 appropriation proposal of N267.4billion, made available to Nigerian Tribune, on Monday, shows that the board of Internal Revenue will generate N48 billion, at a monthly IGR target of N4billion, while MDAs will provide N64billion.

Aside from the board of internal revenue, MDAs tasked to generate revenue are the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, N40 billion; Bureau of Investment, Promotion and Public-Private Partnership to make N2.5 billion, while N2.57 billion is to come from the Health Insurance Scheme and N2.56 billion from the office of the Surveyor-General.
Furthermore, priority on expenditure for 2018 will be on Road construction to the tune of N43.7 billion, Lands, Housing and Urban Development, N11.7 billion; Education, N6.1billion; Agric, N3.8billion; Health, N2.9billion and Trade and Investment, N446.8million.
Aside from the ongoing ones, new road constructions for the year include rehabilitation of Beere-Alekuso-Agbeni-Dugbe, rehabilitation of Oritamerin-Ayeye-Inalende-Mokola road, expansion of Oke-Ado-Molete road with spur of Mapo-Oritamerin, rehabilitation of Moniya-Ojutaye-Iseyin road, expansion/rehabilitation of Beere-OritaAperin-Akanran-Gbedun-Dagbolu, expansion/rehabilitation of Apata-Bembo-Olosun.

State Commissioner for Finance and Budget, Mr Bimbo Adekanmbi who shed light on the budget estimates, on Monday, said the state premised the optimum performance of 2018 on the ongoing restructuring of the Board of Internal Revenue for improved IGR drive, pursuance of projects that will attract sponsorship from development partners, promotion of public-private partnership and be stimulating citizens’ interest in micro, small and medium scale entrepreneurship.

Speaking at House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, Adekanmbi added that the year’s budget will be financed from unspent income brought forward from the 2017 budget of N10.41 billion, statutory allocation from FAAC/others of N94.43billion, capital receipts of N43.72billion, and transfer from Local government, JAAC and local government state pension board.

He, however, lamented that the 2017 budget failed to perform as expected, a situation, he attributed to global economic downturn and its attendant fall in federal allocation to the state.
Especially, Adekanmbi decried that the state could only boast of an Internally Generated Revenue of 16.84 percent as at September 2017 and at a monthly IGR average of N1.3billion.

Though he noted that the state did not aim at increasing tax to raise its IGR, Adekanbi said it was poised to expand the tax net to cover hitherto neglected aspects of the economy.
He, however, expressed positivity that efforts at improving the IGR will yield the desired result.

Adekanmbi spoke alongside, Special Adviser to Governor Abiola Ajimobi on Budget and Planning, Dr Kolawole Isiaka; Commissioners of Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela; Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Toye Arulogun; Youths and Sports, Mr Abayomi Oke.
Oyo StateRevenue

Olori Kudirah’s death is indeed a big loss, not only to our father, the Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Adetunji, but also, to the entire people of Ibadanland.

May the Almighty grant Kabiyesi, Mama’s children and loved ones the fortitude to bear this great loss.

May her soul Rest In Peace ~ Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi

Welcome Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala
Welcome Senator Teslim Folarin
Welcome Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja.

Ilé Baba kìí b'omo lérù, welcome!

Oyo state has always been known to be progressive, and apparently Oyo will remain the seat of progressives!

�@tolanialli

#AsiwajuNiWa

KOSELERI in 2017 - A Recap

REMARKABLE 100% JUMP IN WASSCE PERFORMANCE: How did Oyo state do it?

Leading up to 2017, the Oyo State government made major reviews of its education policy with a clear intention to reposition education for productivity and reclaim its Pacesetter status. This noticeable surge in students' performance in the 2017 SSCE, evident in a 100% improvement in average percentage performance from 22.12% (2016) to 54.18% (2017), is a highly remarkable take home from these key reforms:

1. ENFORCEMENT OF 80% ATTENDANCE
Enforcement of 80% attendance for all students to ensure their optimum performance in external or internal examinations. Students who fail to achieve the set standard would not be eligible for promotion to higher classes.

2. CANCELLATION OF AUTOMATIC PROMOTIONS
Automatic promotion of students in all public secondary is now cancelled. Promotions is based on merit so as “to ensure that quality products are graduated from the public schools.”

3. EXTRAMURAL CLASSES
Extramural classes for JSS3 and SSS3 in all public secondary schools. This measure is to add quality time to the teaching periods.

4. EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT LEVY
A sum of N3,000 (three thousand naira) will be paid per student on annual basis as Education Development Levy. The payment of the levy will be in three installments of N1,000 per term.

5. NO MORE FREE WAEC REGISTRATION
Oyo government has stopped further payment of WAEC registration fees with effect from 2015/16 academic session as decided by stakeholders. “This is as a result of the lackadaisical attitude of students and to ensure commitment of parents to better performance of their wards in external examinations.

6. QUALIFYING EXAMS
The state government introduced qualifying examination for ss2 students transiting to the next upper class (SS3 - final year students) so as to ensure that only serious and quality students are presented for the final external examinations.”

7. ZONAL EDUCATION MONITORING COMMITTEES
The committees comprised of seasoned educationists, parents and security agents are engaged to “bring to students’ truancy and social ills noticeable within and outside school’s premises to a zero level.

8. ESTABLISHMENT OF SCHOOL GOVERNING BOARDs
Establishment of School Governing Boards as the State’s Participatory Management of Schools’ Model for the six hundred and twenty eight (628) public secondary schools and the Technical Colleges in the State.

#AsiwajuNiWa
#Koseleri #Koseleri2017
#AjumoseEducation

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KÒSELÈRÍ in 2017 - A Recap

Another major step was taken towards the achievement of the Governor Ajimobi-inspired agenda to build the modern #Oyo state.

In conjunction with the World Bank and with the help of the DAR Agency, and in tandem with internationally-acceptable standards, the final schematics of the IBADAN CITY MASTERPLAN was submitted to the Governor and members of the State Executive by the DAR team in July.

A masterplan to guide the development of Ibadan, the historical, political, pacesetting and sociocultural capital of Nigeria's Southwest, till the year 2039!
We repeat, #Koseleri is NOT just a word!

#AsiwajuNiWa #Koseleri #Koseleri2017
#AjumoseDevelopment

KOSELERI in 2017 - A Recap

Across 2017, our state experienced rapid rebirth infrastructurally, kilometer by kilometer.

Of the close to 2,000 kilometers of roads reportedly built by the present administration in Oyo state over the past 6 years, an impressive chunk of it are a network of urban and rural roads outside the state capital.

While the major highways that are newly constructed and/or reconstructed in other major cities within Oyo state have opened new economic windows therein, the rural roads in their own might have seriously boosted agricultural productivity by creating ease of access.

Most of these rural roads were constructed to lead to expansive farmlands, remove the bottleneck of poor accessibility and then make agriculture productive. It is also noteworthy to know that most of these rural infrastructures were constructed in direct cooperation with the LGAs, deploying direct labour (in other words, contracted to locals) and thus, keeping the economic impact within each zone.

So far, about 334 of such roads have been completed by this government across Oyo state at last count.

A typical example is the construction (and maintenance) of the impressive stretch of the SEKONI-OKELERIN road in Ogbomoso land, linking up with the Surulere and Oko axis of the town, where Oyo state's expansive and one-of-it's-kind Cashew bed is located.

The ongoing SAKI-IBARIBA road construction/expansion is also poised, as an example, to further open Saki's industrial (ikoko-irin) and agricultural/economic (shea butter) potentials to the world. Same goes for Iseyin and Oyo towns.

#AsiwajuNiWa
#Koseleri #Koseleri2017
#AjumoseInfrastructure

Oyo, Chinese Firm Sign MoU For 38km Light Rail Project – Oyo Lawa!

The Oyo State Government and China Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for construction. of a light rail system that will cover 38 kilometres in Ibadan.

Commissioner for Works and Transport in the state, Mr. Wasiu Dauda, who briefed journalists after the MoU was signed at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan, said the exercise was witnessed by members of the executive council of the state.

The light rail, which is expected to be completed within 12 months from the date the contractor secured loan facility for the project, will commence from. the Toll-Gate/Sanyo axis of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway through Dandaru in Mokola on Queen Elizabeth Way and will end at Ojoo.

The commissioner was optimistic that the contractor would secure the loan facility for the project within the next four to five months.
According to him, “The state government is embarking on the project because if you get to some areas, the traffic congestion is beyond imagination. In this case, for instance, if someone is coming from Lagos and going to Ojoo, he would only alight at the Toll Gate. He needs not board another cab, but just enter into the lightrail to save time and resources.

“The company will source for 85 per cent of the fund and Oyo State will pay the balance of 15 per cent. The project will greatly help ease the problem of traffic congestion. It is a Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiative. We are optimistic that in another four to five months, the company should be able to access the loan facility and part of the requirements to getting the loan is the signing of the agreement between the company and the state government.

“The light rail will begin from Toll Gate/Sanyo down to Dandaru and then to Ojoo. It will cover about 38 kilometres. The project will massively help reduce traffic congestion within the city and also boost commercial and economic activities. The duration of the project will be twelve months with effect from the day they are able to facilitate the loan to execute the project.”

The Executive Director of CCECC, Jack Lyao, who led top officials of the company to the singing ceremony, said “CCECC is a very big company, especially in Nigeria and we major in railways, roads, buildings and bridges. Even in railways, we have done so many of it in places like Abuja, Lagos and others.

“We are eager to hand over a very profitable project to Oyo State. Once we receive the payment, we will set the commencement date and after then, 12 months to deliver the project.”

OYO State Government has commenced demolition of 200 dilapidated blocks of classrooms in the state in line with its resolve to remove all structures that are posing security threats.

In additional, the state government said it has appropriated N5.6 billion for construction of new structures in the schools.

According to the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela, who personally supervised the demolition of some of the dilapidated blocks of three classrooms housed by Ibadan Municipal Government (IMG) Primary School III, Mokola, Ibadan on Thursday said the buildings have outlived their utility.


“We decided to build a lasting legacy in the state and we have equally identified need to build more structures and renovate those ones that we can. But we have realized that there are some structures, especially those ones that were established in the 50’s with mud bricks that can no longer stand the test of time because of structural problems. They are banned in the state” Olowofela declared.

The commissioner disclosed that the demolition was at no cost to the state, as the exercise was done as a corporate social responsibility by the contractor that would build new blocks of classrooms for the school.

Olowofela stressed that the present administration under the leadership of Abiola Ajimobi-led has approved N2 billion for construction of 100 new structures in secondary schools in the state, adding that another N3.6 billion has been earnmaked for primary school structures.He, however noted that the new buildings were not part of the six model schools that are nearing completion.

The commissioner continued, “N2 billion
project has been awarded for 100 schools in our various secondary schools. We have also set aside the sum of N3.6 billion for primary school structures in the state. So, the old buildings that we inherited that are no longer useful to anybody that has now become den for criminals, armed robbers and thieves, such structures are being pulled down”.

OYSOWA WEEK '17: Celebrating Resilient Women of Oyo state -

The Mrs V.A Samsonrs. V. A. Samson is the founder and Managing Director of the BOVAS group that was established in 1980 and which started operations as an indigenous independent petroleum marketing company in the same year. "Mama Bovas" as she is fondly called in and around Oyo state, is a marketer per excellence having an experience of over twenty-five (25) years in the Oil and Gas industry as Dealer with both Texaco Nigeria Plc and Mobil Plc. She was the first Nigerian to win the highly competitive Texaco Latin America West Africa (LAWA) Award for Best Overall Dealer in 1990 for the highest sales in both regions combined. She is the Matron of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), NNPC/PPMC Satellite Depot, Ejigbo, Lagos State and Apata Depot Ibadan, Oyo State. Mrs Samson has led meritoriously over the years, making a difference in the Oil and Gas industry and is definitely an embodiment of resilience.

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#OysowaWeek
#TheResilientWoman