Oyo Govt Strengthens Advocacy to End Female Genital Mutilation

The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) through the Centre for Comprehensive Promotion of Reproductive Health (CCPRH), has organised a one-day capacity-building training to strengthen advocacy for the abandonment of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) across the state.

The training, held at Plaza De Aruna Hotel in Oyo Town, brought together Medical Officers of Health (MOHs), Health Educators (HEs), and Monitoring and Evaluation Officers (M&Es) from all 33 local government areas of the state. 

It formed part of ongoing efforts to eliminate harmful traditional practices and promote the health and rights of women and girls.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Muideen Olatunji, represented by the Director of Special Duties, Dr. Abiodun Akeem Akande, reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ending FGM in Oyo State.

He described Female Genital Mutilation as a harmful and outdated practise that must be eradicated through sustained advocacy, community engagement, and strengthened healthcare systems.

Dr. Olatunji stressed that primary healthcare workers play a vital role in driving behavioural change at the grassroots level, urging participants to become active advocates against FGM in their respective communities.

According to him, the training was designed to equip health workers with the knowledge and tools needed to identify, prevent, and respond effectively to cases of FGM and other forms of Gender-Based Violence (GBV).

He added that the programme would strengthen participants’ capacity to implement interventions and ensure proper referral mechanisms for survivors.

During one of the sessions, the Programme Officer, Mrs. Bilikis Olawoyin, delivered a detailed presentation on Female Genital Mutilation, covering its definition, types, prevalence, causes, and consequences, as well as emerging trends within Oyo State.

She explained that FGM, often wrongly referred to as female circumcision, has no medical benefits and exposes women and girls to severe physical, psychological, and emotional complications.

Mrs. Olawoyin also highlighted socio-cultural factors sustaining the practice, including myths, misconceptions, and societal pressure, while emphasizing the need for collective efforts to end it.

Participants were equally trained on appropriate referral pathways for survivors of Gender-Based Violence and FGM, with emphasis placed on ensuring victims receive timely medical care, psychosocial support, and legal assistance where necessary.

The training further underscored the importance of recognising FGM as both a preventable public health issue and a violation of human rights.

Participants were encouraged to intensify awareness campaigns and promote behavioural change in their communities to safeguard the rights and well-being of girls.

As part of efforts to support community outreach activities, health educators were provided with identification jackets, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) materials, and reporting booklets to aid their fieldwork and documentation.

The Oyo State Primary Health Care Board reiterated its commitment to working closely with development partners, stakeholders, and community leaders to ensure the total abandonment of FGM in the state.

The training concluded with a renewed call on participants to serve as frontline advocates in the campaign against Female Genital Mutilation and help create a safer and healthier environment for every girl child in Oyo State.

Two Veterans jostle for League Chairmanship

As the League of Veteran Journalists, Oyo State, prepares for election to elect a new executive, two of its members have locked horns for the position of Chairman.

The contestants are Victor Oluwadamilare, a former Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State and a former two -time Chairman, League of Veteran Journalists, Oyo State, Alhaji Kola Animasaun.

Oluwadamilare, a former employee and journalist with the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, publishers of the Tribune titles;  Animasaun, a former employee and broadcaster with the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Ibadan National Station, emerged for the contest after the close of nomination last week Thursday in Ibadan.

The election,which has generated a lot of interests from many quarters, will be a clash between two media titans, as campaign hots up.

Members of the association will have the choice of choosing between a dogged unionist and one time Special Assistant (Media), to the former Minister of Communications and a former broadcaster/two -time former Chairman of the League in Oyo State.

According to the Electoral Committee, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the election has been slated for Thursday May 28, 2026, at the League House, NUJ Press Centre, 2 Simeon Adebo Avenue, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan.

OPC NEW ERA CELEBRATES PA REUBEN RASORANTI AT 100, HAILS HIM AS YORUBA ICON AND LIVING LEGACY

The Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) New Era joins millions of Yoruba sons and daughters, both at home and in the diaspora, in celebrating a towering icon of our race, *Pa Reuben Rasoranti*, on the momentous occasion of his 100th birthday.

At 100, Pa Rasoranti stands as a living embodiment of Yoruba resilience, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and cultural identity. For over seven decades, he has been a consistent voice of reason and a fearless advocate for the social, cultural, and political advancement of the Yoruba people within the Nigerian federation.

As a respected educationist, community leader, and elder statesman, Pa Rasoranti’s contributions transcend generations. He has lent his voice to the preservation of Yoruba language and traditions, championed the cause of regional self-determination, and stood firm in the defence of democratic values even in the face of intimidation and adversity. His life’s work reflects the true Omoluabi ethos: integrity, courage, service, and dignity.

The OPC New Era particularly acknowledges his role in shaping public discourse on restructuring, federalism, and the protection of Yoruba interests at critical junctures in Nigeria’s history. His measured yet firm counsel has inspired countless leaders, activists, and youth across the Southwest and beyond.

On this historic milestone, we salute Pa Rasoranti not only for the years he has lived, but for the quality of life he has lived and the enduring legacy he continues to build. His centenary is not just a personal achievement but a national celebration of a patriot whose name is etched in the annals of Yoruba history.

We pray that the Almighty grants him continued strength, sound health, and more peaceful years in the midst of his loved ones. May his wisdom continue to guide our race as we strive for unity, progress, and self-actualization.

Happy 100th Birthday, Pa Reuben Rasoranti! 

The Yoruba Race Salutes You!

Signed,  

Comrade Adesina Akinpelu, OPC National Leader

WORKERS' DAY: Oyo Pays 18bn Salaries Monthly

...As NLC Chairman Confirms State’s 4th Position in Workers’ Welfare

"The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been described as one of the most forward-looking and mature Labour Unions in recent history".

This assertion was made today by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, who led the Management of the Ministry to the NLC Secretariat in Ibadan for a courtesy visit held in solidarity with workers to mark the 2027 Workers’ Day Celebrations.

Prince Oyelade said that as a young reporter he had the privilege of covering the landmark amalgamation of the Nigeria Labour Congress held at the Parliament Building in Ibadan in 1978 where   Comrade Hassan Sunmonu was elected as the NLC President. 

“In the past 48 years, I have interacted with various NLC leadership in the state, and I can boldly say that in terms of building a harmonious relationship between government and workers, particularly from 1999 till date, none has surpassed the current Labour Unions in Oyo State,” he stated.

The Commissioner noted that in 2019, during his inaugural Gubernatorial address , Governor Seyi Makinde pledged to ensure the prompt payment of workers’ salaries on or before the 25th of every month.

 According to him, the promise was met with skepticism by many.

“However, the Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State Council not only believed in that promise but supported it fully. 

As we can see, 84 months after that audacious commitment, Governor Seyi Makinde has not reneged on the promise.

 Instead, he introduced the 13th-month salary and has increased workers’ salaries three times, even as the workforce expanded significantly due to unprecedented recruitment policy" He said.

Oyelade further revealed that with over 130,000 government workers, the Makinde administration now has the largest workforce not only in the South-West but also in the South-East and South-South regions.

He added that over ₦18 billion is paid monthly as salaries to government's workers representing an increase of over 800 percent compared to the 2019 baseline.

 He also stated that the administration’s internally generated revenue (IGR) of over ₦103 billion monthly is justified by the extensive infrastructure development and strategic interventions aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.

The Commissioner congratulated the Oyo State NLC on Workers’ Day and commended the Union for its  sustained support for the Makinde administration.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Oyo State Council, Comrade Kayode Martins, noted that the state government under Governor Makinde has taken deliberate steps to restore dignity to retirees through structured gratuity payments and the clearance of long-standing arrears.

According to him, the government initially increased gratuity provisions to ₦1 billion. Following a request by the union for an additional ₦500 million to raise it to ₦1.5 billion, the governor further reviewed it upward to ₦3 billion annually to ensure full settlement of outstanding obligations over time.

“The Governor also promised that if by December 2026 the backlog still exists, all outstanding payments will be fully settled before May 2027,” he added.

He explained that this intervention has significantly reduced hardship among retirees, many of whom previously had to resort to legal action or endure prolonged delays before receiving their entitlements.

The NLC Chairman stated that the policy has strengthened confidence among serving workers regarding the security of their benefits upon retirement.

He also commended the administration for reabsorbing previously disengaged workers, describing it as a corrective measure to addressing past injustices, as well as for approving backlog promotions, which he said has boosted morale among civil and public servants.

Comrade Martins noted that Oyo State has set a commendable benchmark by implementing a minimum wage above the Federal benchmark of ₦70,000.

"Prior to the reforms, the state ranked 32nd nationally in key indicators of workers’ welfare, but has since risen to 4th position following the implementation of the new minimum wage and related reforms" He said.

He described the simultaneous implementation of wage increases and pension interventions as a historic milestone in Labour relations within the state, noting that it has significantly improved both workers’ welfare and  productivity and further reaffirmed the commitment of workers in the state to continue supporting the administration with increased dedication and service delivery.

Oyo Govt, FERMA Strengthen Collaboration On Road Maintenance

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) to improve road infrastructure and ensure safer, motorable highways across the state.

The Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Arc. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, while receiving the delegation of FERMA

led by  the Director, South-West Zone 1

Engr. Babatunde  Longe,  to the Oyo State Public Works and Transport, Secretariat, Ibadan, said 

the Oyo State Government’s commitment to building durable, safe and economically viable road infrastructure.

The Commissioner, who spoke through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Prince Adenrele Adegoke Imran, explained that the present administration places a high premium on strategic partnerships, a proactive maintenance culture, and the adoption of modern engineering solutions to tackle road challenges across the state.

He added that the Ministry remains focused on improving interconnectivity between urban and rural communities, reducing travel time, enhancing road safety and supporting socio-economic growth.

 According to him, collaboration with FERMA will strengthen institutional capacity, promote effective resource utilisation and ensure timely and sustainable road maintenance practices.

He also highlighted the importance of data-driven planning, routine and periodic maintenance, as well as continuous engagement between federal and state stakeholders. 

He stressed the need for greater synergy in addressing critical road infrastructure deficits, particularly on federal roads traversing the state, noting that the partnership would drive infrastructural development and improve road conditions across Oyo State.

Earlier,the Director, South-West Zone 1,FERMA, Engr. Babatunde  Longe,

 reaffirmed FERMA’s commitment to maintaining federal roads and expressed the Agency’s readiness to work closely with the Oyo State Government in addressing pressing road concerns.

 He added that the visit focused on areas of mutual interest including joint planning, information sharing and coordinated maintenance strategies to deliver sustainable road infrastructure for the benefit of the public.

OYRLEA Receives Police Backing on Enforcement Drive, Reaffirms Ban on Animal Rearing in Barracks

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has secured firm backing from the Oyo State Police Command for its ongoing enforcement drive, including the prohibition of animal rearing within police barracks.

This assurance was given on Tuesday when the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters, Eleyele, Ibadan.

Justice Aderemi commended the Nigeria Police Force, Oyo State Command, for its sustained collaboration and operational support, noting that the deployment of police personnel has significantly enhanced the effectiveness and smooth execution of enforcement activities across the state.

“As the scope of our operations continues to expand, we request the deployment of additional officers to further strengthen our joint enforcement efforts,” she said. 

She emphasized the need for sustained inter-agency collaboration in upholding the rule of law, ensuring environmental compliance, and promoting public safety.

In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, PSC, Mnips, reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on indiscipline, stressing that enforcement must begin within security institutions.

“Enforcement is a serious task. We do not tolerate the rearing of animals in the barracks. If anyone must rear animals, they must be properly caged. We are in full support of your cause,” he stated.

The Commissioner further reaffirmed the Command’s unwavering commitment to supporting OYRLEA in its intensified enforcement of public order and environmental laws across Oyo State.

He also assured the Authority that its request for additional personnel would receive due consideration, noting that maintaining a lawful and orderly society remains a shared responsibility.

The OYRLEA delegation included the Chairman of the Oyo State Environmental Taskforce, Rtd. DCP Francis Ojomo, alongside members of the Authority’s management team.

The visit underscores the shared commitment of both institutions to strengthening collaboration and enhancing effective law enforcement in Oyo State.

Oyo RAAMP Commended for Outstanding Performance Among Participating States

Oyo State  Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (OYO RAAMP) has been commended  for its outstanding performance, placing it among the top-performing states participating in the programme.

The National Coordinator, RAAMP (NCR), Engr. Aminu Bodinga, gave the commendation on Tuesday during the ongoing 10th Implementation Support Mission of the World Bank and African Development Fund (ADF), held at the National Airforce Conference Centre, Kado, Abuja.

Engr. Bodinga urged the government to put in place necessary mechanisms for the commencement and effective implementation of the Rural Access Roads Agency (RARA) and the State Road Fund (SRF), stressing that these are vital for the sustainability and maintenance of rural road projects.

He also appreciated the Oyo State Government for assenting to the establishment of RARA and SRF, describing it as a clear indication of the State’s readiness to participate in the RAAMP Scale-Up programme.

According to him, my visit to Oyo State revealed impressive project delivery, particularly the 36.4-kilometre Alako–Idiya–Batake owa–Ijaye road, constructed using single coat surface dressing, which he noted stands out in quality when compared to similar projects in other states.

He further noted that although Oyo State’s RAAMP initially faced challenges, the state has made remarkable progress and is now performing excellently under the supervision of the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development.

Speaking with journalists immediately after the state’s presentation, the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye stated that the recognition reflects the state government’s commitment, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, to transparency, adherence to global best practices, and effective project implementation.

He noted that the commendation serves as encouragement for the State to sustain its performance and continue delivering impactful rural infrastructure that supports agricultural development and economic growth.

Presenting the state’s performance, the Coordinating Head and Infrastructure Engineer, Oyo RAAMP, Engr. Adegboyega Obe, disclosed that out of the 67.95km of roads awarded under backlog maintenance contracts, 55.9km have been completed,  added that Cross Drainage Structures (CDS) have been upgraded under backlog maintenance to 142 metres of CDS, while 20.04km of rural roads with surface dressing have also been completed.

He further noted that the physical improvement of Agro-Logistics Centres in three markets—Aare Alasa Market (Ona-Ara Local Government), Oja-Agbe Market (Iseyin Local Government), and Oja-Oba Market (Ibarapa Central Local Government, Igbo-Ora)—is nearing completion.

Engr. Obe however commended Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye for his leadership and commitment to ensuring that all projects meet the standards outlined in the Project Implementation Manual (PIM).

He, however, assured that the State Project Implementation Unit (SPIU) would continue to work diligently to ensure that Oyo State maintains its leading position among participating states.

Dignitaries at the event included the World Bank Task Team Lead, Mr. Rakesh Tripathi; the African Development Fund (ADF) representative; the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi; as well as representatives from the 19 participating RAAMP states, among others.