Celebration of Service as OYSMIDA GM Marks 60th Birthday, Exit from Public Service

The Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA) has celebrated the retirement and 60th birthday of its General Manager, Mrs Olufunke Omidiran, in a grand ceremony that drew top government officials, colleagues, family members, and well-wishers from across Oyo State.

The event brought together family members, colleagues, and well-wishers to honour Mrs. Omidiran’s years of dedicated service, exemplary leadership, and remarkable contributions to the growth and development of the Agency.

In his remarks, the Director-General of OYSMIDA, Mr Abiodun Oni, congratulated the celebrant on attaining the milestone of retirement and her 60th birthday. 

He commended her unwavering commitment, professionalism, and passion for excellence, noting that her legacy of diligence and integrity will continue to inspire staff and stakeholders of the Agency.

The Director-General described Mrs. Omidiran as a seasoned administrator whose impactful leadership strengthened the operations and reputation of the Agency during her tenure.

Also present at the ceremony were representatives of Permanent Secretaries and General Managers from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in Oyo State, who joined in celebrating her outstanding service to the state.

The event featured goodwill messages, tributes, and presentations in recognition of her distinguished career, with prayers offered for a fulfilling retirement filled with good health, joy, and continued success.

Oyo Govt Moves to Unlock Trade Potential with Moniya Inland Dry Port Project.

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the successful realization of the Moniya Inland Dry Port, project with the convening of a high-level review and validation meeting on its implementation strategy, describing the project as a major driver of economic transformation and regional trade expansion.

The meeting, which brought together key Stakeholders from the public and private sectors, development partners, and Federal Regulatory Agencies, focused on the presentation and validation of the consultant’s final report, as well as the integration of stakeholders’ inputs into the implementation framework.

In his welcome address, the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musibau Adetunji Babatunde, who represented the Governor of Oyo State, expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their continued commitment to the project, describing it as a strategic infrastructure that will reposition the State’s economy.

He also commended  the project Consultant, DewLands International Company Limited  for its technical work on the report, noting that the Inland Dry Port would serve as a “game changer in the nearest future, creating jobs, decongesting the seaports, and projecting Oyo State as a major logistics hub.”

Prof. Babatunde explained that the engagement was designed to ensure thorough review, validation, and alignment of the project’s recommendations with both state and national development priorities.

He added that the initiative aligns with Federal efforts to enhance logistics efficiency, improve trade facilitation, and reduce congestion at existing seaports, particularly in Lagos.

According to him, “our shared vision and collaboration will drive this project into reality and ensure that Oyo State fully harnesses the benefits of this strategic infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, noted that the project is being implemented in collaboration with relevant Federal Agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, under the leadership of the Honourable Minister, H.E. 

Adegboyega Oyetola, CON.

He said the partnership reflects strong synergy between the Federal and State governments in delivering critical infrastructure that will stimulate economic growth and development.

Representing the Honourable Minister, the Director of Maritime Services at the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Oyinloye Adeola Meshack, He  described the project as a transformative intervention for trade facilitation and regional connectivity.

He urged stakeholders to remain open, sincere, and committed in their engagement, emphasizing that the project would strengthen economic linkages across the South-West region and beyond.

Mr. Oyinloye explained that the Inland Dry Port would help address congestion at existing seaports in Lagos by serving as an inland extension linked through road and rail infrastructure, thereby improving efficiency in cargo clearance and distribution.

He added that the project would boost economic activities along the corridor, create employment opportunities, strengthen small and medium-scale enterprises, and support industrial development across Oyo State and the South-West region.

He further noted that supporting infrastructure, including road rehabilitation to the project site and the upgrade of the Airport to international standards, formed part of broader efforts to create an enabling environment for investment.

According to him, relevant Agencies such as the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and the Nigerian Ports Authority are already collaborating closely with the State Government to ensure smooth documentation and timely implementation.

He expressed optimism that operations would commence in the near future, describing the project as a “significant step towards improving trade efficiency and unlocking regional economic potential.

Oyo Govt Reaffirms Commitment to Public Health, Environmental Safety

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has reassured residents of its readiness to tackle emerging public health and environmental challenges, including Cholera, Lassa fever, flooding, and other related hazards.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, gave the assurance on Thursday during a press briefing held at the Ministry.

He emphasized that contagious diseases such as cholera, Lassa fever, and Ebola thrive in unsanitary environments, urging residents to maintain proper sanitation, avoid exposing food items, and keep their surroundings clean at all times.

Aderinto warned of the risk of a cholera outbreak and stressed the importance of personal hygiene, safe water practices, and proper waste disposal in preventing the spread of diseases.

He further advised residents to adopt strict hygiene and food safety practices, particularly in preventing Lassa fever. According to him, food items must be properly stored in sealed containers to prevent contamination by rodents, while the sale and consumption of exposed or contaminated food should be avoided.

Residents were also urged to ensure that food products are sourced, processed, and handled under hygienic conditions.

The Commissioner also cautioned against bush burning and indiscriminate waste disposal, noting that such practices pose serious environmental and public health risks.

On waste management, he reiterated the Ministry’s zero tolerance for illegal waste disposal and the use of unauthorized waste collectors. 

He  advised residents to patronize only government-approved waste management services, warning that illegal waste handling contributes to environmental degradation.

He also warned residents  against dumping refuse in drainages and waterways, as this contributes significantly to flooding.

Speaking on flooding, Engr. Aderinto noted that meteorological reports indicate increased rainfall in parts of the country. 

He urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautionary measures, adding that the state government is strengthening its monitoring and response systems to mitigate the impact of flooding.

Residents were encouraged to report environmental violations promptly or unsafe practices, including illegal dumping and activities that could endanger public health.

The Commissioner further advised households, food vendors, and storage facilities to carry out regular fumigation to prevent rodent infestation.

"Residents of Oyo State are therefore advised to report environmental violations through the Oyo State Security Services (OYO SSS) emergency line: 09116696777." He said

Retired Oyo Top Officials Commend Makinde’s Welfare Policies

Retired top officials in Oyo State have commended Governor Seyi Makinde for what they described as worker- and pensioner-friendly policies that have improved the welfare of both serving and retired civil servants.

The commendation was given by the Association of Retired Executive Secretaries and General Managers of the Oyo State Government during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the State Government, Professor. Musibau  Babatunde, at the Government Secretariat, Ibadan.

The Chairman of the Association, Barrister Olusola Orobode, lauded the administration for the regular payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities, noting that the policy had brought relief and stability to retirees across the state.

He also praised the government for its developmental strides in critical sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and security, which he said have positioned Oyo State as an attractive destination for investment.

Orobode described the administration as responsive to the needs of workers and senior citizens, adding that the consistent welfare initiatives have boosted confidence in governance.

He noted further that members of the association, despite being retired, remain active and are willing to contribute their experience and expertise to support government programmes through advisory and consultancy roles.

In his remarks, the Secretary to the State Government appreciated the visit and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the welfare of workers and retirees, stressing that their contributions remain vital to the state’s development.

Professor Babatunde disclosed that efforts were underway to engage retired professionals in strategic areas through committee assignments and policy formulation, in order to harness their wealth of experience for improved service delivery.

He assured the association of the government’s openness to constructive advice, noting that inclusive governance remains key to sustainable development.

The visit featured the presentation of a congratulatory card to the SSG and a reaffirmation of the association’s support for the state government’s programmes.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

17. April, 2026

Oyo Govt Begins Statewide Data Collection for MSMEs Across LGs, LCDAs

The Oyo State Government has commenced a renewed and strategic statewide data collection and collation exercise for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across all the 33 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in the State to strengthen economic planning and expand access to government and international support initiatives.

The initiative was formally flagged off on Wednesday at the Conference Room of the Ministry of Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Flagging off the programme, the  Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Hon. Adeniyi Olabode Adebisi, stated that the engagement was designed as a “train-the-trainer” session to equip selected participants as aggregators for the statewide MSMEs data capture exercise.

The Commissioner who spoke through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olajide Okesade,explained that the aggregators would be responsible for coordinating data collection efforts within their respective Local Government Areas by working with ten trained agents each, thereby ensuring widespread and efficient coverage across the State.

He noted that a similar exercise conducted in 2024 provided valuable insights but also revealed the need for improved accuracy and validation of data collected.

According to him, “This initiative is aimed at improving the quality and reliability of MSMEs data in Oyo State. We observed gaps in the previous exercise, particularly inconsistencies in critical identification details such as Bank Verification Number (BVN) and National Identification Number (NIN). This training is therefore essential to ensure that all data collected going forward is accurate, verifiable, and fit for planning and intervention purposes.”

He charged participants to approach the assignment with diligence, professionalism, and a high level of technical accuracy to avoid discrepancies that could hinder beneficiaries from accessing government and development partner interventions.

In his presentation, the Consultant to the Oyo State Government and Chief Executive Officer of Global Sight Services Limited, Mr. Dayo Bello, described the exercise as a critical step toward building a credible and comprehensive MSMEs database for the State.

He emphasized that the data collection covers a broad spectrum of MSMEs, including traders, artisans, farmers, and small-scale industrialists, noting that accurate data remains a key requirement for accessing funding and support from government, federal agencies, and international development partners.

Mr. Bello explained that the decision to undertake a fresh round of data collection was informed by the need to address inaccuracies observed in the 2024 dataset, which limited its effectiveness for programme implementation.

He further assured participants of a seamless and technology-driven process, noting that data captured in any part of the State would be transmitted in real time to a centralized database.

Mr. Bello also reiterated that the exercise would provide equitable opportunities for all MSMEs, including those who may have participated in the previous exercise, to be recaptured under the improved system.

 

LET MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC HAVE POSTIVE EFFECT OF THE TAX PAID - LADOJA

His Imperial Majesty Oba ( Dr ) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1) has called on the Government at all levels to let the members of the public have the positive impacts of the tax they pay

The appeal was contained in the press release issued and signed by Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, the Chief Press Secretary to Olubadan of Ibadanland shortly after the Courtesy Visit paid by the top management staff of the Institute of Taxation of Nigeria to Oba Ladoja at his palace Oke Aremo, Ibadan on Thursday 

According to Oba Ladoja, members of the public pay taxes to enjoy the neccessities of life which include security, water supply, good roads, power supply,job opportunities among others 

" To enjoy the above mentioned amenities, members of the public are enjoined to be alive to their civic responsibilities for if taxes are not paid, Government may be forced to seek for loans", the paramount ruler further explained 

Oba Ladoja also said that double taxation should be discouraged in the interest of all, consequently taxation experts like members of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria should be involved in taxation matters

The monarch invited the visitors to move round Ibadan to see the tourist attractions of the ancient city to enable them contribute their quotas to the development of Ibadanland 

Earlier in his address ,the president of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) Mr Innocent Chinyere Ohagwa said they were at the palace to receive royal blessings 

 According to CITN president, Ibadan occupies a distinguished place in Nigeria 's history as a city of culture, scholarship, business/commerce and leadership 

Mr Innocent Chinyere acknowledged Kabiyesi remarkable voice and intellect to shaping Nigeria's democratic experience at a defining movement in our national History 

"Beyond seeking your royal blessings, we have also come to draw from the wisdom of the traditional institutions which historically represents one of the earliest framework though which taxation and communal contributions were organized in our society long before modern tax laws and revenue authorities emerged, traditional institutions played a vital role in taxation and  the legacy remains instructive even today ",

The  CITN is the foremost professional body responsible for regulating the practice of taxation in Nigeria ,The institute traces it's root to February 14,1982 when it was established as the Association of Tax Administration and Practitioners, the institute was formerly Chartered by an Act of National Assembly in 1992

Present at the courtesy visit were Oba ( Dr ) Kolawole Adegbola, the Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Muibi Ademola the Aare Alasa Olubadan and Chief Adegboyega Taofik Adegoke the Aare egbe omo Balogun of Ibadanland 

Results Over Rhetoric: Adeseyi Lawal’s Impact in Ikeja Constituency I

 

Recent remarks by Mr. Ayo Olusegun questioning the performance of Hon. Adeseyi Lawal have sparked debate across Ikeja Constituency I. 

Yet, a broader and more balanced review of his work tells a different story—one rooted in visible results and consistent grassroots engagement.

Contrary to suggestions of inactivity, Hon. Lawal has maintained a steady focus on improving the welfare of his constituents through employment opportunities, educational support, community security, and infrastructure development.

One of the clearest indicators of his impact is in job creation. 

Through his facilitation, several residents have secured employment in key Lagos State agencies such as TESCOM, SUBEB, and LAHASCOM. These opportunities have translated into financial stability for many families. Beneficiaries including Taofeek Bankole, Omobosola Adetunji, Olaleye Taiwo Abel, Saliu Fausat Olayinka, Ibrahim Mohammed Tijani, and Fadipe Abosede Kafilat highlight the real-life outcomes of these efforts.

Beyond employment, Hon. Lawal has also invested in education and social support. Numerous students in Ikeja Constituency I have benefited from the distribution of JAMB forms, easing access to higher education. In addition, he has provided financial assistance to residents by helping to offset various personal and household bills—interventions that have offered relief to many during challenging times.

In addressing security concerns, Hon. Lawal has embraced a community-driven approach. His facilitation of recruitment into the Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Corps (LNSC) has ensured representation across wards such as Onilekere, Onigbongbo, and Oregun. Individuals like Imoleayo Paul Ipadelola, Adebayo Sheu Tijani, Mustapha Yunus Babatunde, and Idowu Kingsley Nwanka are now playing active roles in safeguarding their communities.

Infrastructure development has also remained a priority. The renovation of Ola-Adesega Street in Oregun stands as a practical example of responsive governance. 

Though modest, such projects significantly improve daily life by enhancing mobility and supporting local economic activity.

While Mr. Ayo Olusegun’s comments reinforce the importance of accountability, the full picture points to a pattern of meaningful service delivery. Hon. Lawal’s efforts demonstrate that effective representation is best measured not by rhetoric, but by tangible improvements in people’s lives.

As discussions continue, residents of Ikeja Constituency I are encouraged to engage with a complete and factual view—one that recognizes both scrutiny and the substantial progress already made.