Can u just mention which area he as failed? Mr saliu

Firefire:
Celebrating with nothing to show as dividends of democracy after 8 years in government.

“Constituted authority” without any good legacy.


Failed element!

*15 Interesting Facts You Need To Know the IBADAN CENTRAL ABATTOIR, Amosun, Akinyele LGA*

1. The newly built multi-billion Naira Ibadan Central Abattoir was commissioned by the Governor Abiola Ajimobi administration as a responsible and responsive measure to mitigate the unsanitary circumstances of the major slaughter slabs like Bodija, Aleshinloye, Gege and at Onibu-Ore, Monatan.

2. The decision to relocate to the Ibadan Central Abattoir was reached after a series of meetings and deliberations, which led to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Oyo State government and the National Butchers Union of Nigeria (NUBN), the umbrella body of the butchers.

3. The ultramodern abattoir, adjudged as the best in Nigeria and West Africa, has two surface and two underground tanks that can produce 600,000 litres of water on daily basis, with four other tanks as an alternative.

4. The Ibadan Central Abattoir possesses a mechanized slaughter slab and two conventional slaughter slabs which can each accommodate the slaughtering of 2,000 cows, while the facility can house 300 goats and pigs and has a space for animal burning, processing of intestines and cow heads.

5. The Cow holding pen can house 5,000 cows at a time.

6. There is also a designated dumping site for cow sheathes.

7. The Ibadan Central Abattoir can conveniently contain 1000 meat sellers in its stalls, it has 170 shops, an administrative building, a clinic, a canteen, a cold room, a separate incinerator and a car park that can accommodate 300 vehicles.

8. There are two standard cold rooms run with two 25KVA Generators as well as buildings providing toilet, bathroom and changing room facilities.

9. The Ibadan Central Abattoir project would create more than 1000 jobs and ensure hygienic meats are produced for peoples’ consumption.

10. Some butchers had protested against the relocation to Amosun Village, citing insecurity and the challenges of transportation. But the government assured that adequate security and transportation systems were in place for the successful running of the Ibadan Central Abattoir, as well as facilitate the ease of doing business.

11. The Oyo state government directed the deployment of five buses to ply the facility from five designated routes across Ibadan.

12. The Oyo state government is also processing partnership with some banks on the provision of meat vans and credit facilities to the butchers.

13. Also, the OYSG is facilitatiing as insurance scheme for the butchers to access compensation in situations when their animals were lost to diseases.

14. The Ibadan Central Abattoir is a joint venture among a private establishment, C & E Consulting Limited, the Oyo state government, the 11 LGs and 14 Local Council Development Areas in Ibadanland, as well as the Butchers' association.

15. Apart from its state-of-the-art facilities that would promote the hygiene of the processors and consumers of meat in around Ibadanland, it is believed that the Ibadan Central Abattoir has the propensity of ending the incessant clashes between herders and farmers.

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseInfrastructure
#AjumoseHealth
#AjumoseEnvironment
#AjumoseInvestment

Hon Saheed Akinade-Fijabi, Chairman House committee On Communication Federal Republic of Nigeria, has called on the good people of Ibadan and Oyo State Generality to unite against all forms of division currently threatening the peace of the State.

He made this call at the meeting held in Ibadan the capital of Oyo State

The Chairman Committee on communication urged all APC stakeholders across the state to make the required sacrifice and forge a united front to defeat the Opposition.

He urge all Oyo State Citizens to be calm and be of good behaviour as many opportunities is in our doorstep

Hon. Saheed Akinade Fijabi said Governor Abiola Ajimobi has reposition the state on a true path to peace and prosperity via restructuring and strengthening of critical national institutions of Government.

Let us come together to rally round and support the Good work of our Governor, Together we can build it

Ki Oyo leee daaaaa
Ajumose gbogbo Wa ni

OYO state government, through its Ministry of Education, Science and Technology has organized a 7 day workshop for all science teachers in public secondary schools across the state on procedures to handles dangerous chemicals and other laboratory hazards.

Speaking at the opening session of the workshop on Monday at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela noted that to embark on scientific experiments, it is imperative to break away all dangers associated with the teaching and learning of science related subjects in the schools.

Olowofela further added that the gesture is in consonance with the tripod agenda of the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi in restructuring, repositioning and transforming every sectors in the state.

Also, he averred that the ignorance index of laboratory hazards is alarming saying the need to get familiar with laboratory procedures cannot be over emphasized while research have it that laboratory hazards claims too many victims’ lives in the process of carrying out scientific experiments.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mrs. I.I Fatoki also harps on relevance of science to human lives and need for conservative measures.

The Oyo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Sunday commended the party delegates for their peaceful conduct during the Congress that was conducted in the 351 wards across the state.



The party also described as a cache of lies the allegation by a faction of the party that some of the new ward executives did not pay nomination fees for forms collected and fake forms were also issued.

The General Secretary of the Party, Mr. Mojeed Olaoya equally commended the 7-man ward congress committee led by Alhaji Musa Halilu for theor steadfast and commitment to the tenets of the party as well as rule of law, noting that their conduct has concretised the firm belief of the party in due process and constitutionality.

“The APC in Oyo State would like to commend the WARD CONGRESS Committee ably led by Alhaji Musa Halilu Ahmed for the wonderful job so far” the party scribe said.

According to a Mr. Olaoya, “We commend our members across the 351 Wards of the state for their orderliness in the discharge of the onerous responsibility to elect new executives that would pilot the affairs of the Party for the next four years.

“It gladdens our heart that the Congress went smoothly and very successful across all the 351 Wards without any skirmish or violence as against the wishes of some dissidents of the Party. Such individuals make politicking interesting and their nuisances are inevitable”

Olaoya disclosed that all the 351 Wards Congresses were monitored by INEC officials and all the Security agents to authenticate the exercise.

He urged party members to exhibit the spirit of tolerance and accommodate all as always being preached by the leader of the party in the state, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, stressing that the peace in the state which the present administration is known for should not be sacrificed for any reason.

Olaoya called on all delegates to repeat the same orderliness and peaceful conduct in the other forthcoming.

….Solicits information support for police*

Following the unfortunate bank robbery incident that left many security operatives and innocent individuals dead in Offa, Kwara state, the Oyo State Security Trust Fund has again called on the attention of the people of Oyo state not to leave the task of security of lives and property solely in the hands of the government but support same by reporting suspected criminal activities promptly to the security operatives.

Calling on the people to always avail the security operatives particularly the police, information that can help nip criminal activities in the bud, the agency says people must be ready and willing to partner with and support the government effort in the interest of sustaining peace.

The agency made the call while informing journalist of plans to refurbish and repair security operatives vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) as well as complete the installations of Close Circuit Television Cameras (CCTV) in some crisis-prone areas in the state.

Addressing journalist yesterday at the Onireke office of the agency after the meeting of the members of the board of the agency, the Executive Secretary of OYSSTF, Mr Femi Oyedipe said the latest release is the third phase of the agency support initiative to bolster the peace and security being enjoyed in the state.

While lamenting the high number of victims of the Offa bank robbery incident, Oyedipe wondered why such innocent people had to pay with their lives, insisting that the security agencies must be supported with valuable information about criminals and their activities, among others.

The ES who did not disclose the amount approved by the Board also said disclosing the areas the CCTV are being installed would be a direct information for criminals to know how to avoid such areas and perpetrate their crimes elsewhere.

Oyedipe said, “The money released is to improve the security architecture of the state in the wake of recent Offa robbery incidents that left scores of security and civilians killed. The Trust Fund did the Phase 1 of Police vehicles repairs in August 2017, when 20 vehicles were added to the fleet of Operation Burst Vehicles.

“The Phase 2 held in December 2017 with the refurbishing of faulty vehicles for all security agencies in Oyo State. The latest release of funds is for the phase 3, which aims to buy and refurbish police Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC), patrol vehicles, and complement the state government initiatives in the completion of CCTV installations.

“The Board of Trustees of OYSSTF met on Friday, April 13, 2018, and it was agreed that all hands must be on deck in ensuring security is not left alone for government to fund, especially in the wake of the unfortunate bank robbery incident at Offa, Kwara state, where many lives were lost.

“It was sad that such a number of policemen could die in an incident occurring at a peacetime. We, therefore, called in all citizens to report any suspicious movement around them because the security agencies are to be supported by providing valuable information on criminals.”

The Executive Secretary however assured that the Board will continue to support every government initiative in ensuring that the state remains safe for all, particularly with the recently released funds, which he said would enable the security agencies to increase their operational fleet as well as ensuring that their Armoured Personnel Carriers (APC) are functional.
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Participants at a two-day “train-the-trainers” workshop for civil servants in Oyo State have expressed gratitude to the State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, for his commitment to the welfare and development of the state’s workforce.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the workshop, held in Ibadan, on Thursday, with the theme, ‘The Imperatives of Change Management in Oyo State Public Service.’

According to the communiqué, the participants resolved to embrace work practices, which would enhance productivity and efficiency in the state civil service.

Some of the resolutions include, “emphasising recruitment based on merit; attitudinal change among staff to ensure better service delivery and continuous capacity building of staff through training and re-training”.

Others are, “constant review of relevant extant rules, regulations, circulars and general orders; clearer definition of the mission and vision of MDAs for effective service delivery and effective deployment of technology in day-to-day operations”.

Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Olalekan Alli, delivered a keynote address at the workshop, while the lead paper was delivered by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Efficiency, Dr. Isaac Ayandele.

Resource persons included retired permanent secretaries in the state and seasoned administrators, while participants comprised staff of the efficiency unit of all MDAs and political appointees.

Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has directed butchers in the eleven Local Governments of Ibadanland to relocate to the multi-billion naira central abattoir located in Amosun village, Akinyele Local Government, Ibadan, latest by the end of April.

The governor gave the directive during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, on Thursday.

The Butchers Association was led to the meeting by the Southwest Coordinator, Alhaji Biliaminu Elesinmeta; and the State Chairman, Alhaji Azeez Alagunfon.

Apart from its state-of-the-art facilities that would promote the hygiene of the consumers of meat, the governor said that it was also capable of ending the incessant clashes between herders and farmers.

He said that the meeting was specifically called to find a lasting solution to issues surrounding the relocation of butchers in the state capital to the central abattoir and to dispel l the misgivings about the project.

Ajimobi explained that the abattoir was a joint venture among a private establishment, C & E Consulting Ltd, the state government, the 11 LGs and 14 Local Council Development Areas in Ibadanland, as well as the butchers.

He stressed that the private partners would have 50 per cent share; the LGs and LCDAs would have 36 per cent; state government, 10 per cent; while the butchers would have 4 per cent in the ownership structure.

Ajimobi said, “We plan to develop your business through the central abattoir. I told those in charge of the arrangement that the butchers, state government, LGs and LCDAs and our private partners should co-own the facility.

“We are sure that the crisis between the farmers and herdsmen will not arise again, because cows will now be transported here directly instead of our towns and villages where grazing on farmlands had been generating tension.

“I’m also happy that this arrangement will bring about a change in the way butchers handle meat and it will improve the hygiene of the business. The facility is going to have health and sanitary officers that will ensure strict compliance with the basic hygiene of meat handling.

“So effective from May, we must actualize this project. A committee comprising of all stakeholders will start meeting immediately and I shall call for another meeting before the end of this month.”

The governor informed the butchers that each cow butchered at the central abattoir would attract a fee of N3,500, which will cover the use of the facilities at the centre.

He added that the state had entered into an agreement with the private investors to use the facility for 30 years, after which the total ownership would be transferred to the butchers.

Ajimobi appealed for support and understanding of the butchers to comply with the relocation order, on the premise that the facility had suffered neglect for too long due to unresolved issues among the stakeholders.

The leaders of the butchers expressed gratitude to the governor for allaying their fears about the project, and for the support of the government to the association in the area of financial empowerment and donation of a new bus to members.

They told the governor that the earlier misunderstanding between them and the government was caused by lack of adequate information from the immediate past administration in the state on the benefits accruable to the butchers from the central abattoir.

Elesinmeta, however, appealed to the state government to reduce the N3,500 cost attached to each butchered cow in the new facility, while he also solicited logistic support for the members located in different parts of Ibadan .

Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has said that the Solid Minerals Development Fund is a strategic intervention by the Federal Government, which is capable of propelling the country’s economic growth.

The governor said this in an address read on his behalf by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Gbade Ojo, at a two-day strategic engagement and sensitization workshop for stakeholders in the Southwest geo-political zone, held in Ibadan, on Wednesday.

He also advocated the assemblage of stakeholders in the industry to brainstorm and map out strategies towards attaining the objectives of the SMDF, which was established in 2017 to administer accruing funds meant for solid minerals development.

The Executive Secretary, SMDF, Hajiya Fatima Shinkafi, had said that the workshop was aimed at exposing the stakeholders to the opportunities and benefits in the mining sector as an alternative revenue earner.

Ajimobi said that the FG’s objective aimed at facilitating the desired growth and sustainable development of the mining sector was in agreement with the vision of his administration to tap the potential in the solid minerals development sector.

The governor said, “There is no debating the fact that for Nigeria to achieve her desired growth, particularly in the solid minerals sub-sector, there is need for an intervention like the SMFD.

“Oyo State has large deposits of high quality marble. Other solid minerals available in commercial quantities are aquamarine, tantalite, tourmaline, granite, talc and the recently discovered gold deposits.

“As a matter of fact the state will, in the nearest future, establish an international gemstone processing centre and market where precious stones could be processed and polished before shipment to international markets.”

The governor said that the state was exploring the benefits in agriculture and solid minerals as its own pragmatic measure to wean itself from overdependence on the dwindling oil revenue coming from the centre.

This, he said, informed the decision of his administration to establish the Mineral Development Agency, which is responsible for the creation of wealth from mineral resources for the benefit of the citizens and to attract local and foreign investors.

Ajimobi said that the government’s decision to invest in the solid minerals development sector had caused an increase in the state’s internally generated revenue, as well as the collection of 13 per cent derivation from the mineral resources from the FG.

He said that the effort had also resulted in the discovery of gold deposits, which had earned the state licence for the exploration of talc and gold in Kajola Local Government Area of the state.

The governor appealed to the SMDF to use the opportunity of the workshop to further enlighten and empower those in the mining sector by exposing them to the necessary steps that would facilitate access to the fund.

THE Oyo State government on Tuesday informed that a more proactive and effective measure has been put in place to mitigate flood disaster in Ibadan, the state capital in this rainy season.

Also, the government, through its Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP), with support from the World Bank, said it was on top of the situation.

Addressing newsmen at a three-day workshop on the role of the media in mitigating flood risk in Ibadan, organised by IUFMP, held at the Prince Ajibola Afonja Hall of Plaza De Haruna, Oyo town, the state commissioner for Information and Culture, Mr Toye Arulogun urged residents not to panic as they welcome the rainy season, with the government assuring that measures were being taken to prevent disaster as well as ensuring that the flood does not wreck havoc in the state this year.

Arulogun, in his goodwill message/lecture titled ‘ The Imperative of a Cordial Government – Media Relationship on Development Projects’ sought synergy between the government and media in mitigating flood risks in Ibadan.

He highlighted innovative works such as the Ibadan City Master plan, Flood Risk Management and Drainage Master Plan, and the Solid Waste Management Master plan as part of the government’s strategies to halt flood in the city.Also speaking at the workshop, Commissioner for Finance and Budget, Mr. Bimbo Adekanbi acknowledged flood as a universal disaster, recalling that the city had been witnessing flooding for a long time, with the first recorded one being in 1951.

The commissioner, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Alhaji Musa Olawoye, lamented that successive governments had offered palliatives, which amounted to merely redressing the damage done to hydraulic infrastructure and cushioning the loses to lives and properties, but without remedying the fundamental causes of the menace.

“Much unlike its predecessors, the Ajimobi administration took the bull by the horns by designing a comprehensive and deep-rooted solution to the longstanding problem, the result of which is the IUFMP. It is gratifying that the project is already delivering masterpiece civil works across Ibadan, and many more will soon commence”, he added.

Other resource persons at the workshop, which began on Monday, included Dr. Adeyinka Lanihun from Communications and Language Arts Department, University of Ibadan and a Media Consultant, Mr Bolaji Oladepo, who recommended a synergy between the media and IUFMP to assist in mitigating flood in Ibadan.

THE Executive Secretary, Oyo State Security Trust Fund, Mr Femi Oyedipe, has charged residents of the state to as a matter of contributing to their safety and security, report every suspected and unusual activities to the security agencies, if the fight against crime and criminality must be won.

Oyedipe also urged community leaders, religious leaders and social groups to instantly alert the security agencies of any crime, rather than hoarding the information and waiting to post it on the social media thereafter.

He gave the charge during a Town Hall meeting with the community leaders in Oyo zone as parts of sensitisation effort to discuss the introduction and collection of the State Security Levy, commencing soon.
The zonal participants comprises all the towns within the Oyo Federal Constituency.

According to Oyedipe, the state government through the Oyo State Security Trust Fund is committed to making the state safer for its residents and more investor friendly in order to boost the economy.

In his words, “as a means of consolidating the efforts of the government on Security, Oyo State Security Trust Fund is working very hard with the security Agencies in the State. To increase security surveillance, Oyo State Security Trust Fund, in synergy with the Oyo State Government, has commenced the installation of CCTV in different areas of the State, with business and commercial districts being used as the pilot scheme.

“Mapo and its environs have also been listed to be part of the pilot scheme.
The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has released some funds to the contractors handling the installation of the CCTV in the State. These CCTVs will help in curbing crimes and criminal activities in our state”, he added.Responding to requests for constant electricity to expose criminal hideouts, the Executive Secretary said that plans are underway by the Trust Fund, to provide solar powered street lights in major dark areas, to checkmate the activities of men of the underworld, particularly at night.

He, however reiterated the need for community leaders and residents to expose criminals in the community with the assurance that their identity would not be disclosed, saying that “our security agencies are now more professional in their job and they need every assistance to succeed in being part of our safe city initiatives”.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), recently disclosed that a total of 231,072 prospective voters have been registered in the last eleven months in Oyo State.

Mutiu Agboke, Oyo INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), disclosed this during the ongoing Continuous Voters Registration (CVR), further stating that the new registrants were registered between 27th April 2017 and March 22nd 2018.

Agboke, while addressing journalists in his office, also noted that the new registrants include 108, 590 males and 112, 482 females.

He however, pointed out that 648, 840 uncollected Permanent Voters’ Cards were still in the custody of the commission waiting to be collected by their owners.

According to him, “We want to update members of the public to know how we have gone. For us to brief people on how we have gone. From April 27th 2017, since we started the Continuous Voter Registration, as I speak to you today, we have registered, so far in Oyo State, 231, 072. This include 108, 590 males and 112, 482 females. The total figure is 231, 072, that is the total we have registered.

Transfer, interstate and intrastate we have 14, 072, loss or defamed cards we have 13, 860. With all these, we still have 648, 840 uncollected PVCs. That is what we have been battling with in our custody.”

THE Oyo State Government has offered free screening and treatment in all the health facilities across the state for individuals with persistent cough suspected to be Tuberculosis (TB).

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adeduntan stated this at the weekend in Ibadan in his address to commemorate the 2018 World Tuberculosis Day, with the theme “Find and notify all TB cases in Nigeria” and the slogan “Wanted: Leaders for a TB free world”.

Dr Azeez said that the free screening and treatment initiative of the Governnor Abiola Ajimobi administration is to reduce the spread of TB in the society, noting that all health facilities in the 33 Local Government Areas and 35 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) have been mandated and mobilised to effectively carry out TB screening and treatment.

The commissioner enjoined any individual with persistent coughing to visit health facilities for check-up, explaining that the most common symptom of Tuberculosis is persistent cough lasting 2 weeks or more which is accompanied by fever, night sweat, weight loss, chest pain, loss of appetite, coughing up of blood mixed with sputum and tiredness while the spread of TB could be attributed to living in an overcrowded environments, poor hygienic conditions, indiscriminate spitting of sputum and poor cough etiquette, malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, Diabetes mellitus and smoking.

He said that every March 24th of every year was set aside by the World Health Organization since 1882 as the World Tuberculosis Day when Dr. Robert kochs announced the discovery of the germ mycobacterium tuberculosis that causes tuberculosis disease, stressing that TB is a contagious disease that affect all ages and kills nearly 5000 people every day worldwide due to lack of access to treatment.

Dr Adeduntan added that over 10.4 million people had TB death in 2017 and there were 1.8 million TB deaths in 2016 making it the top infectious killer disease Worldwide, saying “”Nigeria now ranks 5th among the 22 Countries of the world with highest TB burden coming up from previous 4th position in 2010. This is the result of scale up and expansion of TB treatment centre as an implementation strategy across all states in Nigeria”.

He allayed the fears that Individuals suffering from TB need not be isolated once they are on treatment but should be encouraged by the community to attend clinic regularly, as tuberculosis can be completely cured provided the treatment started early and drugs are taken regularly for the stipulated length of time required.

The Commissioner reiterated on the need to create a neat and healthier environment in the state, saying that the state government will continue to prioritise cleanliness of its environment.

Dr Adeduntan acknowledged the unflinching support of the Damien Foundation Belgium to the state on TB control programme, saying that the foundation has contributed immensely to infrastructural and capacity developments across the State.

He also commended religious and occupational groups, civil society organizations and the media houses for the tremendous improvements and support for the TB control programme.

Oyo State Government has distributed cheques to about 77 land owners affected by the lands acquired for investment purpose.

The official presentation of cheques was held at the premises of Community Museum, Otu town, in the Itesiwaju Local Government area of the state.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi, who was represented by the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Survey, Honourable Isaac Omodewu, said the payment of the compensation to land owners was an attestation of his administration’s commitment at ensuring that rights of the people are well protected.

He stated further that, since inception of his administration, part of the vision has been to bring investors, especially now that peace and security is well guaranteed in the state.

He said, the purpose of the land acquired is to improve agricultural produce and boost the economy of the state.

While appreciating all the stakeholders for their support, he appealed to the beneficiaries to use the money judiciously, as no amount is too small for investment, assuring them that the project would start without any delay.

The representative of the investor, Allied Atlantic Distilleries Limited, Mr ‘Wale Mojolagbe said, the company has acquired about 4,000 hectares of land in Otu community for expansion of their business and production of ethanol from cassava, as Oke-Ogun area has the largest supply of cassava.

Mr Majolagbe said, the company would move to the land acquired in April for planting of cassava as all machineries have been put in place for smooth operation.

Also the Chairman of Itesiwaju local government, Mr Adeniyi Adeagbo, said the people of Otu community are delighted for the development as more employment opportunities are set to come to the community.

Two of the claimants while speaking with newsmen after the collection of their cheques, Mr Tijani Olawale and Mrs Afusat Salami, lauded the state government over the payment of the compensation.

The School Governing Boards (SGBs) initiated by the Oyo State government have injected more than N2bn into the state’s education sector in the last one year.

The SGB is a participatory model, which brings together all stakeholders in the education system in the management of public secondary schools in the state.

Besides, the state government has awarded contracts estimated at N2bn for the renovation and reconstruction of 100 secondary schools across the state.

The State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, disclosed these during the foundation laying ceremony of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association’s guest house extension, held at the institution, on Monday.

A March 8 letter by the National President of the association, Dr. Kemi Emina, had indicated the resolve of the UI Alumni to name the building after the governor as a mark of recognition of his outstanding performance.

The president said that the building would be inaugurated on May 5 as part of activities lined up to mark the 60th anniversary of the association.

The letter reads, “As an association, we have carefully followed your activities as the governor of Oyo State. It is a general consensus that you have set a pace in governance and infrastructural development that will be difficult to match, years after you leave office.

“And this partly formed the reason for our award to you in September, last year. Equally important to us is that the building (Alumni guest house) be named after you in perpetuity.”

Ajimobi, who was represented by the state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Adeniyi Olowofela, said that the commitment of the N2bn by the SGBs till date was a proof that the policy was a step in the right direction.

He said, “In the last one year, the SGB has injected over N2bn into the education sector in Oyo State. This is a further vindication of the policy as a step in the right direction.

“On our part, we have committed a lot of funds into education in our determined efforts to revamp the sector and to produce students that will compete favourably with their peers anywhere in the country and beyond.

“Let me use this opportunity to thank members of the SGBs for their patriotism and commitment. By this I mean the Parents-Teachers Associations, school principals, Old Students Associations, philanthropists, corporate organizations and others, who acceded to our clarion call to serve on the boards.

“I’m highly impressed by the response of many of these SGBs members who have joined hands with the government by contributing financially towards giving our schools the needed facelift.”

The governor said further that the administration’s commitment to quality education and character building among the students partly informed the introduction of the SGB and the Oyo State Model Education Systems Intervention (OYOMESI).

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.

Oyo State Government has commenced House to House public health and hygiene sensitization to ensure the compliance of one house, one refuse drum policy of the state, saying that dumping of refuse into the rivers and streams channels as well as road median remain prohibited.

The State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Chief Isaac Ishola said this in Ibadan on Thursday, disclosing that the Ministry had dredged 50 streams and rivers in the state between 2014 to 2017.

Chief Ishola said that efforts are already being taken to expand some rivers in the state for free flow of water through the construction of about 14 priority sites to expand river hydraulic and bridges.

The Commissioner reiterated that it is a legal and moral offence for anybody to drop refuse inside rivers, streams and road median, urging that people should stay away from flood plains once the rain persists for more than half hour.

He said, “The beginning of failure, is the failure to plan, as a responsible State Government we have identified some rivers and streams that are due to be dredged in order to have a flood free raining season. We are also calling on our people to desist from activities that can cause flooding in the state. Furthermore, we have started the House to House campaign of the government’s policy of One House, One Drum to ensure that people are aware of their responsibilities.”

Chief Ishola stressed that each house as a matter of civic responsibility is expected to patronise private refuse collectors as assigned by the management of Oyo State Waste Management Authority (OYOWMA), revealing that the government is planning to establish Oyo State Enforcement Agency to complement the various enforcement strategies of the Ministry.

He called on the people of the state, who have their houses built on the flood prone areas, to vacate such houses to prevent the loss of lives and properties.

Software and consulting services provider, NexusMax Software 365, has deployed a solution called NEXUSINSURE to power the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA).

A statement by the firm said the Agency’s portfolio had increased since the deployment of the comprehensive biometric health insurance platform.

The system, based on the commercial off-the-shelf NEXUSINSURE software, was implemented by a joint government and private-sector team, comprising the Health Insurance Agency, and NexusMax.

It reiterated that the adoption of the software is to ensure that at least five per cent of the population of Oyo State enrolled before the end of the first year of the health insurance scheme.

According to the firm, the adoption of the software has given the Agency independence, as all stakeholders’ key into the relevant parts of the platform.

The Acting Executive Secretary, OYSHIA, Olusola Akande, explained that the Agency chose NEXUSINSURE because they offered a one-stop platform to manage its activities.

He noted that the Agency went live with the software in July 2017, providing a system that allowed all stakeholders like Health Maintenance Organisations, hospitals, and enrolees, to conduct many activities online, including payments, renewal of premiums, and biometric registration of enrolees.

His words: “One of our major goals was to ensure, from day one of production, that this system would continue to support our operations and provide an improved customer experience without issue. Our team accomplished this goal. The system streamlines our processes and allows us to serve our customers with greater accuracy and efficiency.”

Copyright The Guardian. Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com).

Oyo State Government stated during the weekend that 245 Electronic Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) are ready for collection at the State Ministry of Land, Housing and Survey.

Also, the government announced the dismissal of all ad-hoc staff at various State Town Planning Offices, directing that they should vacate the premises immediately.

The State Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Survey, Mr. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu reiterated that the state government has moved from analogue Certificates of Occupancy to electronic ones for efficiency and technological advancement.

The commissioner stated that the electronic C of O has security features and encrypted security code which is unique to the owner, adding that the picture of title holder would appear on it with the survey plan of the land printed at the back of the certificate in order to prevent fraudulent productions.

Omodewu urged the members of the public to take advantage of the electronic of C of O to have proper title documents, noting that this protect land owners from land grabbers.

Speaking on the activities of Ad-hoc staff, the Director-General, Bureau of Physical Planning and Development Control, Tpl Waheed Gbadamosi stated that they were issuing fake receipts and bank tellers to unsuspecting members of the public, as well as posing as Town Planning Officers at the various Town Planning Offices in the State.

He explained that after the Bureau got a tip off about the circulation of fake receipts and bank tellers it delegated some officials to carry out investigations on the matter which eventually led to the arrest of one of the culprits named Mr. Asumo Taofeek Abiola at Akinyele Local Government who is now in Police custody.

Gbadamosi stressed that government has therefore given a directive that all ad-hoc staff at various State Town Planning Offices should vacate the premises, stating that they will be arrested and handed over to the Law Enforcement Agents if they do not.

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.”

The Oyo State Government has embarked on an intensive training package for over 4,472 rural dwellers through the State Rural Finance Institution-Building (RUFIN) in nine Local Government Areas in the state.

The State Government said that the 2-Day training is meant to support, empower and consolidate group cohesion dynamics as well as management of rural financing.

Speaking at the weekend during the flag-off of the training programm held at Ikoyile, Oriire Local Government Area of the state, the State Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Prince Oyewole Oyewumi said that the training would enable the rural dwellers to become credit worthy groups, noting that after the training, they will be linked with financial institutions for loan accessibility by RUFIN.

Prince Oyewumi, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Victor Atilola, reiterated that the present administration in the state places priority on food security, poverty reduction among the people at the grassroots as well as job creation through its various agricultural policies and programmes which have enabled a favorable environment for investors.

He posited that RUFIN will not give loan facilities directly to the participants rather link them up with the financial institutions with lower interest rates after meeting the necessary requirements, stating that the Group Dynamics play a fundamental role in group functionality.

In his speech, the State RUFIN programme Coordinator, Comrade Olusola Ogundiran, said the participants were divided into groups to allow for monitoring and connections with financial institutions.

He noted that the programme was not focused on farmers alone but also rural dwellers to reduce poverty in rural areas, adding that the groups will be trained across 9 Local Governments including Ikoyi-Oriire, Ona-Ara, Oluyole, Ibarapa North, Iwerele in Iwajowa, Afijio, Jobele, Akinyele, Atisbo and Ibarapa East Local Government Areas.

In their separate remarks, the Caretaker Chairman, Oriire Local Government, Hon. Odekanmi Oluyinka, who was represented by the Secretary of the Council, Prince Toyin Kolawole and the Head of Local Government Administration, Alh. Bayo Raji, appreciated the government of Senator Abiola Ajimobi for encouraging farming as well as initiating programmes to better the lives of rural dwellers, saying these have reduced rural-urban migration.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Olusoji Adedokun, commended the State Government and promised that they will be credit worthy ambassadors.

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.

As part of the efforts of Oyo State Government in boosting the production of tomato and other species of pepper, the State Government has mediated with representatives from European Union in scaling up the varieties of tomato available to its citizens, such that, farmers would be able to access storage facilities as well as other preservative measures that will address the perennial losses often experienced by farmers whose product often get perished before getting to the market.

The Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperative, Princess Taibat Adeyemi-Agaba made this disclosure recently while interacting with representatives of the European Union and some farmers in Oyo State at a stakeholders’ meeting which was centred on how to make tomato business operations profitable and sustainable.

The project is an intervention which would aid the production of tomato amongst the off-takers. To this end, technical education would be provided to farmers across the state which would be centered on areas that would lead to value addition, increase in production and improvement in the general standard of the living of the people of the State. “It is a project that would empower everyone involved in the planting and supply chains of tomatoes and other categories of pepper” she added.

This intervention aligns with the State Government’s aim at retaining its rightful status as a pacesetter, bearing in mind that, the economic transformation agenda of the present administration is to seek all round development of the State as well as creating the right platform for small businesses and market activities to thrive. Consequently, farmers and others within the value chain are enjoined to maximize this opportunity.

In the same vein, the Special Adviser on Intervention, Funds and Development, Dr. Adebukola Adebusuyi stressed that, Oyo State remains the largest producer of vegetables within the South West region. She furthered that, the State Government would be facilitating various training sessions that would sharpen the skills of the famers in the State especially on how to make profitable tomato productions and preservation, thereby retaining the State’s leading profile as an investment destination in the growing of vegetables and other agricultural produce in South West, Nigeria. Dr Afebusuyi also expressed optimism that, the challenges encountered by farmers and other persons while handling such perishable items would soon become a thing of the past.

Also, representatives of the European Union, Dr John Bruecher, reiterated that, the project which is in collaboration with the Ministry of Budget and Planning is to mainly focus on the production of tomato, ginger and pepper.
‘”we are here on intervention of farmers at all level particularly in sensitizing and training them on modern production techniques, better seeds of tomatoes and other pepper, and proper handling ad storage facilities, and more importantly, teach farmers about farming as a business” he added.

Similarly, one of the stakeholders, Mrs Lanre Nwakwo added that training of the local farmers on modern practices would go a long way in achieving good result in terms of soil analysis, right seedling and right handling.

‘”we are campaigning that crates should be used in preserving tomato and other pepper rather than baskets which may make tomatoes and other pepper go out of their shape when there is pressure and while transporting them”she added.

Oyo State Government on Thursday Ibadan said that 12,000 metric tonnes of UREA/NPK fertilizer will be available at a subsidized rate to the farmers in the state for the next planting season.

The government said it is imperative to prepare ahead for the next planting season, saying that the move is to boost farm products and increase yield in the state.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Prince Oyewole Oyewumi disclosed that the state is expecting the supply of 8,000 metric tonnes of NPK fertilizer under the Federal Government Special Fertilizer Intervention Programme.

The Commissioner, speaking through the

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr. Victor Atilola, stressed that there is an ongoing process by the State Government mto procure 4,000 metric tonnes of UREA fertilizer to be sold to farmers at a subsidized rate.

Prince Oyewumi noted that the present administration in the State is working earnestly to ensure food security, enhance farm products as well as boost the State economy, explaining that the fertilizer will be available in all the eight warehouses and the Farm Service Centres where agricultural inputs are being sold in the State.

The Commissioner while speaking on the purchase of agrochemical said that government decided to concentrate on the procurement of fertilizers and not agrochemicals because farmers could easily access the crop protection products in their locality.

Prince Oyewumi therefore enjoined members of the public especially youths to actively embrace farming in order to guarantee food security, become gainfully engaged and eradicate poverty.

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”

The Oyo State Government on Wednesday disclosed that thousands of students between the ages of 10 and 16 will benefit from the Airbus Little Engineer (ALE) robotics programme, saying that the training is in conjunction with the Airbus Foundation together with its partner, The Little Engineer.

The government said that the programme is part of its Oyo State Model Education System Interventions (OYOMESI) initiatives, stating that the training workshop will be held at five flagship schools commencing with Anglican Commercial Grammar School on Thursday, February 8, 2018 between 10am and 2pm.

The Special Adviser to Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Education, Dr Bisi Akin-Alabi explained that the goal of the workshop is to encourage students to understand and embrace technology as well as ignite a passion that could grow into an exciting STEM career, adding that it is also to prepare the state for a knowledge based future and make it a hub for producing knowledgeable competent workforce.

Dr Akin-Alabi disclosed that the four other recently renovated Cluster Learning Centres for the workshop include Lagelu Grammar School on March 9, St Anne’s School on March 16, IMG Sharp Corner on March 23 and Wesley College of Science on March 30, 2018.

She stressed that the beneficiaries will be trained in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), saying that some of the objectives of the workshop are for the students to understand the basics of robotics and why they are must in our lives, recognize the different parts available on the airplane, understand the concept of lift force created on an airplane and possess the ability to understand Basic programming

Other objectives according to Dr Akin-Alabi are for the students to create their own algorithm to develop a problem-solving robot, be aware that a huge industry is waiting for them and unleash their potential and nurture their passion so they can contribute efficiently to the future of Airbus.

According to her, “the Airbus Little Engineer A380 Assembly Workshop is a robotic workshop offered by Airbus Foundation for learners aged 12+ in the MENA region and now in Africa, to instil in youth the passion for Science Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). This workshop aims to introduce the students to the world of robotics and the aviation industry.

“The students will be acquainted with the A380 Airplane covering its development from the manufacturing phase in different countries to its final assembly in Toulouse or Hamburg. This workshop is a 4 hour educational activity that can host a maximum of 27 learners,” Dr Akin-Alabi said.

Oyo State Government has donated food, sewing machines and building materials as relief to the victims of fire disaster which occurred in Mokola Market late last year.
The Executive Secretary, Oyo State Emergency Management Agency, OYSEMA, Mr. Akin Makinde, who led the government delegation therein, said the relief materials were provided to assist the victims to resettle and resume their normal businesses.
The items donated include bundles of roofing sheets, pieces of ceiling boards, sewing machines, bags of cement, mattresses, bags of beans, cartons of beverages, noodles and other materials needed by the victims.
In an address, Caretaker Chairman, Aare Latosa Local Council Development Area, Bashorun Adekunle Oladeji popularly known as “Omo BAO, whose the market falls under his Council, described the State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Abiola Ajimobi as a promise keeper, adding that welfare of Oyo State residents has always been the priority of the Governor which necessitated the distribution of the relief materials.
Bashorun Oladeji urged leadership of the market association to ensure judicious use of the distributed materials to all who were affected by the unfortunate incident.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, The Babaloja of Mokola Market, Alhaji Muritala Aleelo and Iyaloja of the Market, Mrs Feyisara Bayo-Azeez commended the State Governor and the Caretaker Chairman, Aare Latosa LCDA for standing by them by bringing succour to the victims.

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About 21 wives of the governors from the states of the federation, former Liberia First Lady Senator Dr Jewel Howard-Taylor and A former Vice President of Zimbabwe, Mrs. Joice Mujuru are expected to grace the 2017 Oyo State Officials’ Wives Association (OYSOWA) annual conference, which starts on Wednesday December 6, 2017, to discuss issues capable of advancing the course of women.

The womens’ annual conference will hold from December 6-8, 2017 at the International Conference Centre, ICC, University of Ibadan by 8am daily.

The convener of the OYSOWA conference and wife of the Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Florence Ajimobi stated that feminists, gender specialists and top women entrepreneurs will also be joined by other 1000 women delegates, adding that the theme of this year’s conference is ‘The resilient woman, making a difference’.

Mrs Ajimobi disclosed that she will be joined by wives of the governors of Imo, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ekiti, Zamfara, Kebbi, Enugu, Abia, Edo, Delta, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Jigawa, Plateau, Nasarawa, Niger, Kogi, Sokoto and Kwara.

She said that the theme of this year’s event is to underscore the strategic role of women in nation building, stressing that over 10,000 women had been empowered with life-changing business ideas, knowledge and financial support since the conference started six years ago.

“OYSOWA is a phenomenon that has come to stay and I congratulate the women in Oyo State for this achievement. Our 2017 conference is poised to be a memorable one. We are expecting more than 1000 delegates across the country,” Mrs Ajimobi added.

THE Association of Waterwell Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners, AWDROP has partnered with Oyo State government to unveil Project dubbed ‘ABIOLA’ – ‘All Boreholes In Oyo Live Again’ .

According to the association, the partnership through office of Sustainable Development Goals, SDG is to rehabilitate, reposition and make all borehole facilities to be more functional, provide new ones and enhance their sustainability.

Addressing newsmen during a press briefing on Monday in Ibadan, AWDROP President, Engr. Michael Ale described the project as a brilliant initiative that will promote sustainable development in provision of potable water for inhabitants in the state.

Ale added that the Project ‘ABIOLA’ is borne out of the association’s program, National Borehole Rejuvenation and Rehabilitation Program (NABORE) which incidentally is in line with the Partnership for Expanded Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, PEWASH program of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

Commending the governor of the state, Senator Abiola Ajimobi for the privilege given to float the initiative noted that the project’s name, ABIOLA is not a sentiment but a coincidence to bring about positive development in the state.

In his words: “Project ABIOLA is an acronym, ‘All Boreholes In Oyo Live Again’, derived from an initiative between Office of Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs Oyo State Chapter and Association of Waterwell Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners, AWDROP.
Engr Rauf Aderemi OLANIYAN

“The initiative is meant to address many issues and vices that have to do with borehole abandonment in Oyo State. A lot of investments had gone into these abandoned boreholes in the state like designing, fixture and management of boreholes. It has been normal occurrences everywhere that as soon as boreholes are commissioned, they start to develope faults after some while and the issue usually is, lack of management to make these boreholes continually function.

“And to government digged boreholes, people believe that they are less concerned and therefore leave these facilities uncatered for. This project thus allows partnership between the state government and private individuals to enhance its sustainability to further avoid situation where thieves and vandals destroy, cart away and make the facilities go moribund.

“AWDROP learnt a lot of money has been sunk in these moribund projects. This made the association at the national level came up with the idea to partner with SDG’s office of Oyo State Government to bring back these moribund boreholes to life again, to develop new infrastructural facilities and to inculcate habit of maintenance in the beneficiaries. This is to make them know that the project is neither for the state government nor office of the SDG but for them as beneficiaries.

“These boreholes will be in public places like markets, churches, motor parks and other public places where there are so many people. The head of these communities where these facilities are provided will be in charge of these facilities. The community heads will also help in areas of finding suitable locations to provide these facilities and their executions.

“We are also putting sustainable measure by commercializing the facilities through collection of stipends from the consumers. This will be done by attaching toilet facilities. When you are using toilets with water facilities, whoever managing that, will be earning income and therefore creating job for the person and invariably, the facilities will be maintained. Also, we have our numbers on the billboards, in case there are problems. We can be contacted and we will be there to fix the problems. That is why we are partnering with the state government.

“Above all, the project is meant to create employment through these infrastructural facilities. I have examples of infrastructures worth N10m while some worth N2 or N3m. If you give that to somebody, these can solve the person’s problem than to have such money staying idle on moribund projects.

“By all these strategies in place, it tells that our project’s name, ABIOLA is meant to bring back to life all boreholes in Oyo State. The name is not by sentiment but by coincidence and the coincidence is for good purpose”, the AWDROP boss explained.

Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has promised that pensioners and workers in the state’s public service will celebrate the coming end-of-the-year festivities with smiles with the expected refund of the Paris Club excess deduction to the state.

The governor made the promise in his address during the Mawlid An Nabiyy (celebration of Holy Prophet Muhammad’s birthday) at the Government House Arcade, Agodi, Ibadan, on Friday.

Ajimobi, who said he was pained by the cash crunch that had made regular payment of salaries and pensions impossible, expressed optimism that the state would be able to pay at least two months salaries, out of the three months arrears, before the coming celebrations.

With a workforce of more than 100,000, which he said was one of the largest in the country, the governor said that the administration had been very prudent in the management of the dwindling accruals to the state.

Ajimobi said, “Let me assures citizens that we will spend the Paris Club excess deduction refund being expected from the Federal Government prudently. We have that record of spending past refunds and budget support fund judiciously.

“Workers and pensioners will celebrate the coming festivities with joy, because we should be able to pay at least two months from the three months arrears we owe workers before the holidays.

“We are ruling this state with the fear of God. And I’m confident that those who are yet to come to terms with my positive interventions will sing my praise at the end of my tenure. Those abusing me today out of lack of understanding will celebrate me tomorrow.”

On the essence of the Prophet’s birthday celebration, the governor said it was an occasion to remind the people of the need to love and respect one another and fear only the Almighty in all their endeavours.

A popular Islamic preacher, Sheik Muyideen Bello and the Chairman of the state’s Muslim Community, Alhaji Kunle Sanni, said that Ajimobi deserved all the plaudits he had so far received from the Islamic faithful.

Judging by what they posited as the governor’s spirited efforts at ensuring that Muslims were not relegated in the state affairs, the Muslim leaders said it was natural that the adherents reciprocated the governor’s gestures.

Bello said, “If your (Ajimobi) predecessors had performed well as he is doing now, Oyo State would have developed more than this. That is why I will reiterate my admonition to you to ensure that your successor will be committed to building on your legacies.

“Let your successor be someone that fear God like you. We are not interested in the person’s level of education, political weight and other sentiments. The person we want for Oyo State should be someone that will continue from where you will stop.”

On his part, Sanni advised those he said were criticizing the Muslim Community for honoring Ajimobi to wait for their turns.

He said, “I want to make it clear again that we are not politicians. We are celebrating Ajimobi because of his fair treatment of Muslims. I will advise those criticizing us now to wait for their turns if they want to be governor. If they treat Muslims fairly, they will also be celebrated.

“We were not induced with anything other than the governor’s fairness and equity in dealing with us. We did agitate before he permitted our children to wear hijab. He was the first governor to authorize Hijrah (Islamic New Year) as public holiday. What about the large expanse of land he gave us to build our secretariat, among his several good deeds.”