YERP: Oyo, ICMPD Advance Sustainable Reintegration, Rural Youth Development Through Agriculture

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, agricultural transformation, and sustainable development through a strategic partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and other key stakeholders in the implementation of the Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP).

The project is aimed at addressing youth unemployment, supporting the sustainable reintegration of returnees, and creating economic opportunities through agriculture as a means of strengthening rural communities and promoting inclusive development across the state.

Speaking at the ongoing three-day Reintegration Committee/Stakeholders Consultation on Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP), held at Golden Tulip Hotel, Ibadan, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, described the initiative as a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and strengthening agricultural development in rural communities.

He explained that agriculture remains a key driver of economic growth and rural development, stressing that equipping young people with relevant skills, resources, and opportunities would not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute significantly to food security and community development.

Barrister Olaleye further stated that the Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has continued to prioritise youth empowerment, agricultural transformation, and initiatives that provide sustainable economic opportunities for citizens.

Olasunkanmi expressed optimism that YERP would complement existing government efforts by equipping youths and returnees with the necessary support to become productive contributors to the agricultural value chain.

He however, commended the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), the Government of Denmark, and other stakeholders for their support, noting that the project aligns with the Oyo State Government’s vision of creating opportunities for young people and enhancing economic empowerment through agriculture.

In his remarks, the Project Manager, Youth Empowerment and Reintegration Project (YERP) at the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Mr. Tunde Omoyeni, said the project was designed to address youth unemployment, support the sustainable reintegration of returnees, and tackle the underlying drivers of irregular migration.

Mr. Omoyeni explained that YERP would create sustainable livelihood opportunities through agriculture by providing young people and returnees with access to land, climate-smart agricultural training, cooperative development, market linkages, and other livelihood support interventions.

He noted that the project goes beyond reintegration by generating evidence through research to inform improved policies and programmes on youth empowerment and migration management, stressing that the success of the initiative depends on strong collaboration among government institutions, communities, civil society organisations, development partners, and other stakeholders.

In his remarks, the South West Zonal Coordinator, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Mr. Alex Oturu, commended the partnership among the Oyo State Government, ICMPD, and other stakeholders in addressing migration challenges through sustainable solutions.

Mr. Oturu noted that sustainable reintegration of returnees extends beyond their return to communities, stressing the importance of economic empowerment, skills development, and access to productive opportunities that enable them to rebuild their lives.

He reaffirmed NCFRMI’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote safe, orderly, and regular migration while addressing the root causes of irregular migration through community-based interventions.

The Zonal Coordinator added that YERP would strengthen collaboration among government institutions, development partners, and communities in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for youths and returnees.

The consultation brought together government officials, development partners, community representatives, youth groups, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on effective strategies for the successful implementation of the project in Ilero and Awe communities of Oyo State.

The engagement also featured discussions on baseline assessment and community mapping exercises in Ilero and Awe communities, with stakeholders contributing insights and local knowledge to guide effective project implementation.

Timothy Olufemi Commends Governor Makinde for Fulfilling Promise to Isiah Daisi Cheshire, Hails Unprecedented Support for Persons with Disabilities

The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Timothy Olufemi, has expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for fulfilling his promise to provide a house for Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire, describing the gesture as yet another testament to the Governor’s integrity, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

Hon. Olufemi recalled that during the Special Evening with Elderly Women and Persons with Disabilities held at Omololu Olunloyo Park, Ibadan, Governor Makinde publicly assured Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire that he would provide him with a house. He noted with great delight that the Governor has fulfilled that promise, once again demonstrating that *his word is his bond*

According to Hon. Olufemi, “Governor Seyi Makinde is a leader who does not merely make promises; he fulfils them. The presentation of a house to Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire is another remarkable example of his genuine love and concern for persons with disabilities. 

He further stated that Governor Makinde’s administration has recorded unprecedented achievements in advancing the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

“Under Governor Makinde’s administration, countless persons with disabilities have benefited from life-changing interventions, including the provision of land, houses, vehicles, empowerment programmes, employment opportunities, and appointments into strategic positions at both the state and local government levels. These are not mere policies on paper—they are practical demonstrations of inclusive governance.”

Hon. Olufemi also acknowledged that he is personally a beneficiary of Governor Makinde’s commitment to disability inclusion.

“I am a living testimony to the Governor’s sincerity and dedication to empowering persons with disabilities. His administration has given many of us opportunities to serve, contribute, and make meaningful impacts in society. For this, I remain deeply grateful.”

He noted that the appointment of persons with disabilities into positions of responsibility has given the disability community a stronger voice in governance and has inspired many young people living with disabilities to believe that ability, not disability, should define one’s future.

Hon. Olufemi expressed confidence that Governor Makinde’s inclusive style of leadership would be replicated on a national scale if given the opportunity to serve Nigeria at a higher level.

“We are convinced that if Governor Seyi Makinde is entrusted with greater national responsibility, persons with disabilities across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory will enjoy greater recognition, representation, and opportunities. His record in Oyo State gives us every reason to believe that disability inclusion will remain a top priority under his leadership.”

He concluded by appreciating the Governor for his consistency and humility to building an Oyo State where everyone, regardless of physical ability, has the opportunity to thrive.

On behalf of the disability community in Oyo State, Hon. Olufemi offered prayers for Governor Makinde, asking God to continue to grant him wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance as he continues to serve the people with integrity and compassion.

Hon. Olufemi further addressed the misconception held by some individuals that Governor Makinde’s support for persons with disabilities is merely aimed at gaining public approval ahead of future elections. He emphasized that such a perception does not reflect the reality of the Governor’s long-standing commitment to the disability community.

“Many of the life-changing interventions carried out by Governor Seyi Makinde for persons with disabilities were never publicized. Several beneficiaries have received financial assistance, educational support, medical interventions, employment opportunities, land, houses, vehicles, and other forms of empowerment without media attention or public announcements. The Governor has consistently chosen to make a difference in people’s lives without seeking recognition for every act of kindness. 

Timothy Olufemi Commends Governor Makinde for Fulfilling Promise to Isiah Daisi Cheshire, Hails Unprecedented Support for Persons with Disabilities

 

The Executive Assistant to the Governor on Disability Matters, Hon. Timothy Olufemi, has expressed profound appreciation to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for fulfilling his promise to provide a house for Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire, describing the gesture as yet another testament to the Governor’s integrity, compassion, and commitment to the welfare of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

Hon. Olufemi recalled that during the Special Evening with Elderly Women and Persons with Disabilities held at Omololu Olunloyo Park, Ibadan, Governor Makinde publicly assured Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire that he would provide him with a house. He noted with great delight that the Governor has fulfilled that promise, once again demonstrating that *his word is his bond*

According to Hon. Olufemi, “Governor Seyi Makinde is a leader who does not merely make promises; he fulfils them. The presentation of a house to Mr. Isiah Daisi Cheshire is another remarkable example of his genuine love and concern for persons with disabilities. 

He further stated that Governor Makinde’s administration has recorded unprecedented achievements in advancing the welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Oyo State.

“Under Governor Makinde’s administration, countless persons with disabilities have benefited from life-changing interventions, including the provision of land, houses, vehicles, empowerment programmes, employment opportunities, and appointments into strategic positions at both the state and local government levels. These are not mere policies on paper—they are practical demonstrations of inclusive governance.”

Hon. Olufemi also acknowledged that he is personally a beneficiary of Governor Makinde’s commitment to disability inclusion.

“I am a living testimony to the Governor’s sincerity and dedication to empowering persons with disabilities. His administration has given many of us opportunities to serve, contribute, and make meaningful impacts in society. For this, I remain deeply grateful.”

He noted that the appointment of persons with disabilities into positions of responsibility has given the disability community a stronger voice in governance and has inspired many young people living with disabilities to believe that ability, not disability, should define one’s future.

Hon. Olufemi expressed confidence that Governor Makinde’s inclusive style of leadership would be replicated on a national scale if given the opportunity to serve Nigeria at a higher level.

“We are convinced that if Governor Seyi Makinde is entrusted with greater national responsibility, persons with disabilities across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory will enjoy greater recognition, representation, and opportunities. His record in Oyo State gives us every reason to believe that disability inclusion will remain a top priority under his leadership.”

He concluded by appreciating the Governor for his consistency and humility to building an Oyo State where everyone, regardless of physical ability, has the opportunity to thrive.

On behalf of the disability community in Oyo State, Hon. Olufemi offered prayers for Governor Makinde, asking God to continue to grant him wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance as he continues to serve the people with integrity and compassion.

Hon. Olufemi further addressed the misconception held by some individuals that Governor Makinde’s support for persons with disabilities is merely aimed at gaining public approval ahead of future elections. He emphasized that such a perception does not reflect the reality of the Governor’s long-standing commitment to the disability community.

“Many of the life-changing interventions carried out by Governor Seyi Makinde for persons with disabilities were never publicized. Several beneficiaries have received financial assistance, educational support, medical interventions, employment opportunities, land, houses, vehicles, and other forms of empowerment without media attention or public announcements. The Governor has consistently chosen to make a difference in people’s lives without seeking recognition for every act of kindness.”

Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Commitment to Empowering Artisans, Unveils New Skills and Enterprise Initiatives

Lagos – Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to empowering artisans and strengthening vocational skills as key drivers of economic growth, wealth creation and inclusive prosperity across the state.

The Governor gave the assurance on Wednesday at the 2026 Lagos State Artisans Day Celebration, held at the Blue Roof Complex, LTV 8, Agidingbi, Ikeja.

Addressing participants on the theme, "Inclusive Enterprise: Artisans Driving Wealth Creation and Prosperity," Sanwo-Olu described artisans as the backbone of Lagos' economy, stressing that every great city is built by skilled hands.

He noted that artisans play a vital role in constructing homes, maintaining infrastructure, driving industries and sustaining Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which remain the foundation of the state's economy.

The Governor commended the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, led by the Commissioner, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, and the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Lolade Aina, for implementing programmes that promote skills development and economic inclusion.

Acknowledging the challenges confronting artisans, including high energy costs, limited access to affordable finance, multiple taxation and competition from unqualified operators, Sanwo-Olu assured stakeholders that the Lagos State Government was implementing strategic reforms to address the issues.

He disclosed that the Lagos State Harmonised Taxes and Levies Law had streamlined over 60 taxes and levies into just nine, while outlawing illegal collections by unauthorised unions and associations.

On power supply, the Governor revealed that the Lagos State Electricity Regulatory Commission had licensed 14 independent power operators and commenced the rollout of 24-hour electricity franchise zones alongside a 100 per cent metering programme.

To enhance professionalism within the sector, he said the government was strengthening annual trade tests and craftsmen certification programmes in collaboration with the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB).

Sanwo-Olu further announced that the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) had disbursed more than ₦1.9 billion in affordable loans to over 4,000 small businesses, provided grants to 65 enterprises, and continued to offer collateral-free loans of up to ₦5 million at single-digit interest rates.

He added that an eight-week skills acquisition programme for 1,200 artisans and tradesmen had commenced, while another 2,000 Lagos residents would benefit from vocational and digital skills training through a partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Governor urged artisans to embrace technology, continually improve their skills and mentor younger professionals, emphasising that vocational careers deserve the same recognition and respect as white-collar professions.

"When artisans thrive, families prosper. When families prosper, communities flourish, and Lagos becomes stronger, more competitive and more prosperous for all

," he said.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the event as a celebration of the hardworking men and women whose skills, dedication and enterprise continue to drive Lagos' economy.

He praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering commitment to job creation, enterprise development and economic empowerment through initiatives designed to expand opportunities for residents.

According to the Commissioner, artisans remain indispensable to the state's economic development through job creation, infrastructure maintenance, the production of essential goods and services, and the training of future skilled professionals.

Ajigbotafe reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to strengthening artisans through skills upgrading, entrepreneurship support, business formalisation, improved access to information and strategic partnerships with both public and private sector organisations.

He also encouraged artisans to embrace digital technology, adopt modern production techniques and position themselves to compete successfully in both local and international markets.

In her goodwill message, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Wealth Creation and Employment, 

Hon. Stella Osafile, applauded artisans and tradesmen for their immense contributions to the state's growth and development.

She described artisans as resilient, creative and hardworking professionals whose services remain indispensable to Lagos' economy, noting that professionals across various trades—including tailoring, carpentry, nail technology and cosmetology—continue to strengthen communities through their expertise and enterprise.

Osafile urged young people to embrace vocational skills acquisition, describing technical and vocational professions as viable pathways to self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable wealth creation.

Also speaking, President of the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans, Engr. Lawrence Ajayi, reaffirmed the Council's commitment to collaborating with the Lagos State Government to strengthen the informal sector.

He said artisans would continue to promote wealth creation, community development and economic prosperity through professionalism, innovation and collaboration.

The 2026 Lagos State Artisans Day celebration featured the presentation of awards to outstanding artisans across various trades in recognition of their excellence, innovation and outstanding contributions to the continued growth and development of Lagos State.

A Walking Encyclopedia Has Fallen' — Adron Group MD Pays Glowing Tribute to Oloye Lekan Alabi

**The Managing Director of Adron Group, Mrs. Nike Ajobo, has described the late Oloye Lekan Alabi as "a walking encyclopedia" whose death has created a vacuum in Nigeria's intellectual and cultural landscape, saying the Southwest has lost one of its finest custodians of history, values and Yoruba heritage.**

Ajobo made the remarks during a condolence visit to the family of the late Ibadan High Chief, where she reflected on the remarkable life and enduring legacy of the renowned historian, public relations icon, cultural ambassador and mentor.

Overcome with emotion, she said the news of Oloye Alabi's passing was almost impossible for her to believe.

"It was unbelievable. Shock is even an understatement. I was heartbroken and deeply disappointed. I had to call his first daughter, Dupe, before I could believe the news. But we do not have power over death. We can only submit to the will of God," she said.

Describing the late elder statesman as an irreplaceable intellectual giant, Ajobo declared that his death was a loss not only to Oyo State but to the entire nation.

> "A walking encyclopedia has fallen. Something significant has left Nigeria, the Southwest and Oyo State. Oloye Lekan Alabi was content-loaded. He was an outstanding historian whose depth of knowledge was extraordinary. How many leaders do we still have today who possess the kind of historical and cultural knowledge that he had?"

Ajobo disclosed that the late Oloye Alabi mentored her for almost two decades during their time at Odua Investment Company, noting that his influence shaped her career, leadership style and personal philosophy.

"He groomed me for almost 20 years at Odua Investment. He was a man I understood very well. He was exceptionally cerebral, a brilliant orator, a respected cultural ambassador and a true custodian of Yoruba values. Every encounter with him was a learning experience."

She recalled that one of the defining moments in her life came when she contemplated relocating abroad in search of greener pastures, but Oloye Alabi persuaded her to have faith in Nigeria.

"There was a time I wanted to japa, but he changed my orientation completely. He believed so much in Nigeria. He encouraged me to appreciate what I have, believe in my country and remain proud of my culture and Yoruba ethos. That conversation changed my life."

Ajobo noted that despite his towering intellect, Oloye Alabi remained approachable, humorous and generous with his knowledge.

"There was never a dull moment with him. He had an amazing sense of humour and always made people comfortable. He freely shared his wisdom and never stopped mentoring those around him. I am grateful that he continued giving value until his very last breath."

She further credited the late High Chief with instilling in her the virtues of excellence, organisation and foresight.

"He taught me how to become a super organiser. He mentored me in event management, taught me to be proactive and inspired me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Those lessons remain invaluable to me."

Ajobo also revealed that she had hoped to witness Oloye Lekan Alabi become the Olubadan of Ibadanland, describing him as a man who embodied dignity, class and exemplary leadership.

"I sincerely looked forward to seeing him become the Olubadan. He represented excellence and carried himself with grace. His life was one of purpose and selfless service."

Praying for the bereaved family, she asked God to grant them the strength to bear the painful loss.

"My prayers are with the entire family, especially his children. I pray that Almighty God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and gives them the strength to preserve the remarkable legacy he has left behind."

Widely celebrated as one of Nigeria's foremost historians and public relations practitioners, Oloye Lekan Alabi dedicated decades of his life to promoting Yoruba culture, preserving history and mentoring generations of leaders and professionals. His passing marks the end of an era, but the values and knowledge he imparted continue to resonate across Oyo State and beyond.

Obi begs Umahi to fix deplorable roads in Southeast, Southwest

The Onyendu Ndigbo of Ibadanland and Oyo State, High Chief Alloysious Obi, has called on the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi, to, as a matter of urgency, look into repairing the deplorable roads from the South East to the South West.

Obi, who is the Chief Executive Officer of A.O. Obi and Sons West Africa, said that, as a businessman, he has experienced the hardship caused by roads spanning six states, namely Anambra, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ogun and Oyo.

According to him, the roads include Ibadan-Ijebu Ode; Ijebu Ode-Ore-Okada-Benin and all the way to Onitsha, and travelling on these roads is like having a date with hardship.

He disclosed that he lost two trailers he used for haulage in the last month, lamenting that during his last journey from Onitsha to Ibadan, he spent over 12 hours on the road.

Obi appealed to Engr. Umahi, whom he described as a man with listening ears, to do everything humanly possible to fix the roads to alleviate the suffering Nigerians undergo daily on the roads, insisting that doing this would bring great relief to the people in the six states. 

While noting that permanently fixing the roads may take a long time, the Chairman of Ndindu Ndigbo in Diaspora stated that the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) can do palliative works on the roads, maintaining that the roads need urgent government intervention to reduce the hardship people pass through plying them.

He declared that putting toll gates on the roads when they are fixed will go a long way to generate revenue for the government, insisting that it is better to pay toll on good roads than to face hardship on deplorable roads.

He said, “I want to appeal to our dear Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, to help fix the federal roads in the six states of Anambra, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ogun and Oyo. Indeed, it is like hell travelling from the South East to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. On my part, I spent over 12 hours travelling from Onitsha to Ibadan.

“I believe that urgent fixing of the roads and even palliative works by FERMA will bring a big relief to Nigerians who daily ply these roads. Indeed, it will be better to do this as quickly as possible, as the roads get more deteriorated during rainy seasons.”

MENTAL HEALTH EXPERT DR SAMUEL ADENIYI LAWAL MAKES CASE FOR MENTALLY CHAlLENGED , CANVASSES ENROLMENT FOR MENTAL AND PSYCHIATRIC REHABILITATION COURSE AT OYSCOHEST ELEYELE IBADAN

A  Mental Health Expert based in Ojaagbo  Ibadan who doubles as Head of Department of Mental and Psychiatric Rehabilitation at the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology , Eleyele Ibadan Dr. Samuel Adeniyi Lawal has called on Nigerians to always show empathy and love to the mentally challenged in the society .

Speaking with journalists in  Ibadan the Oyo State Capital , Dr. Samuel Adeniyi Lawal  stressed the need to always assist the mental patients  emotionally  and psychologically for them not to feel inferior . 

Dr Lawal who said he had passion for taking care of those having mental issues  noted that if people could show love and passion to them and put them on normal relationship , the society would be a better place for everybody. 

He called on the youths to avoid hard drugs , smoking and other juvenile delinquencies for a better future.

Dr Adeniyi Lawal called on the Federal Government to establish more Rehabilitation Centres across the country to cater for those having mental issues.

He advised the Federal Government  to employ more Doctors for mental patients and employ young graduates to ensure peace and progress.

Dr Lawal called on those  seeking admission to apply for Psychiatric and Mental rehabilitation as a Course in the  Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology for admission  for 2026/2027 academic Session.

He said the Course is lucrative as it's Graduate are needed for contemporary Health Management .