Oyo College of Nursing & Midwifery Marks 77th Anniversary with Tree Planting for New School Hall

The Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Eleyele Ibadan,on Wednesday, marked its 77th anniversary with a symbolic tree planting ceremony to signal the commencement of a new school hall project aimed at enhancing teaching and learning facilities in the institution.

Speaking at the event held at the college’s permanent site in Eleyele, the Provost, Dr. Gbonjubola Owolabi, described the anniversary as a significant milestone reflecting decades of excellence in nursing and midwifery education and the institution’s ongoing commitment to producing highly skilled healthcare professionals.

She appreciated God for His love and kindness over the years, noting that His hand has continually been evident in the affairs and activities of the institution.

She noted that the proposed school hall, when completed, would provide a conducive environment for academic activities, conferences, and other institutional engagements, adding that the project aligns with efforts to improve infrastructure and meet the growing needs of students and staff.

Dr. Gbonjubola further explained that the tree planting ceremony was symbolic, representing growth, sustainability, and the institution’s forward-looking vision as it continues to expand its facilities.

The provost appreciated the support of the Oyo State Governor, Engr 'Seyi Makinde and other stakeholders for their contributions toward the development of the college, urging continued collaboration to sustain the institution’s legacy of excellence.

She therefore urged the students to continue to be worthy ambassadors of the College, emphasizing that the sky is their limit.

Some staff and students who witnessed the event expressed optimism that the new school hall would further enhance academic and social activities within the college.

The Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, a premier institution for nursing education in Nigeria, has over the years maintained a strong reputation for discipline and high academic standards, producing graduates who continue to make significant contributions to the healthcare sector both within and outside the country.

The brief ceremony featured praise and worship, a short exhortation, prayers, and thanksgiving, and was attended by the Deputy Provost, Mrs. Iyabo Adeleke, members of the management team, academic and non-academic staff, as well as students.

NOA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO DEEPENING CIVIC ENGAGEMENT AS YOUTH-FRIENDLY CIVIC AND VOTER EDUCATION MANUAL IS LAUNCHED

The Director-GeneraKl of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has reaffirmed the Agency’s unwavering commitment to strengthening civic engagement and deepening democratic participation across Nigeria, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 General Elections.

He made this known at the national launch of the Youth-Friendly Civic and Voter Education Manual, a collaborative initiative of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI).

The event, held at Reiz Continental Hotel, Abuja, brought together key stakeholders from government institutions, civil society organisations, development partners, and youth groups, all united in the collective pursuit of a more informed, active, and responsible electorate.

Describing the initiative as both timely and strategic, Mallam Issa-Onilu emphasised that sustainable democracy extends beyond periodic elections and must be anchored on informed, value-driven citizens.

"An informed electorate remains the strongest defence against voter apathy, misinformation, electoral violence, and democratic disengagement' he stated.

The Director-General noted that the integration of civic and voter education into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) framework represents a deliberate and forward-looking strategy to empower young Nigerians as catalysts for democratic consolidation. According to him, this approach will deepen grassroots engagement, expand civic awareness, and create a multiplier effect that transcends election cycles.

He further described the newly launched manual as a vital policy tool designed to simplify democratic concepts, equip young citizens with practical knowledge, and promote responsible citizenship, as well as peaceful participation in the electoral process.

Represented at the event by the Director, Civic, Values and Democracy Education, Dr. Olukemi Afolayan, the Director-General commended INEC for its sustained institutional leadership in safeguarding electoral integrity, and KDI for its innovative, data-driven approach and extensive nationwide outreach in advancing democratic reforms.

He noted that the collaboration underscores the importance of strategic partnerships between government institutions and credible civil society organisations in building public trust and delivering lasting impact.

The DG also expressed concern over declining voter turnout in recent elections, stressing the urgent need for sustained civic education and renewed citizen engagement.

He reiterated that the National Orientation Agency remains fully committed to deploying innovative strategies, strengthening partnerships, and promoting the core values enshrined in the National Values Charter including integrity, patriotism, discipline, accountability, resilience, and democracy as the foundation for a stable and enduring democratic system.

Mallam Issa-Onilu described the launch as not just the unveiling of a manual, but the ignition of a nationwide civic movement aimed at empowering citizens to actively shape Nigeria’s democratic future.

He called on young Nigerians, particularly members of the NYSC, to embrace their roles as civic ambassadors and agents of positive change within their communities.

Hon. Prince Egunjobi Samuel Modepoola Celebrates Akeem Agbaje on Birthday, Describes Him as Visionary Leader

 

Hon. Prince Egunjobi Samuel Modepoola, J.P., former Deputy Gubernatorial Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State (2019), has extended warm birthday felicitations to renowned legal practitioner and political figure, Akeem Adedeji Agbaje, as he marks another year.

In a goodwill message made available to the public, Egunjobi praised Agbaje for his outstanding character, leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Oyo State. He described the celebrant as a man deeply rooted in faith, integrity, and service to humanity.

According to Egunjobi, Agbaje embodies rare virtues, including wisdom, empathy, sincerity, and transparency. He further noted that the legal luminary has consistently demonstrated a strong capacity for leadership, describing him as “a visionary, a pathfinder, and a courageous personality who stands tall among his contemporaries.”

The APC chieftain highlighted Agbaje’s ability to build meaningful relationships and his dedication to uplifting others, adding that his spirit of kindness and gratitude has endeared him to many across the state and beyond.

Egunjobi also expressed confidence in Agbaje’s political future, projecting him as a capable leader who possesses the qualities needed to steer Oyo State toward greater development.

 He emphasized that the celebrant’s guiding principle of fulfilling promise captured in his watchword “Adehun” (promise made, promise fulfilled) sets him apart in the political landscape.

Offering prayers for continued strength and success, Egunjobi wished Agbaje longevity, good health, and divine guidance in all his endeavours.

“On this special occasion, I celebrate a man after God’s own heart, a leader full of love and compassion, and a progressive force whose impact continues to resonate. I pray that God Almighty grants him many more fruitful years and elevates him to greater heights,” he said.

He concluded by urging the celebrant to remain steadfast in his pursuit of excellence and service, expressing optimism about his continued contributions to the growth and development of Oyo State.

Security Operatives Quell Attempt to Disrupt OYRLEA Enforcement Against Illegal Trading

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and safeguarding public spaces following a successful enforcement operation by the Authority against illegal street trading across key locations in Ibadan. 

The operation, conducted on Tuesday, covered Gate, Molete and Challenge. It was led by the Chairman of the State Environmental Task Force, retired DCP Francis Ojomo, alongside the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode, Esq., with support from the enforcement team, the Nigeria Police Force and the State Amotekun Corps.

During the exercise at Challenge, enforcement officers encountered interference from suspected miscreants who attempted to obstruct lawful duties and incite disorder. Security operatives providing cover swiftly intervened and dispersed the crowd, restoring calm without any reported casualties. The timely preventive action averted a potential escalation and ensured the continuation of the enforcement exercise. 

Four individuals were subsequently arraigned in court on charges bordering on obstruction of law enforcement officers and violation of environmental regulations.

In a related development, enforcement officers impounded five cows being herded along the Molete expressway in violation of the state’s open-grazing regulations.

The Authority reiterates that enforcement of the ban on illegal street trading and open grazing remains lawful, continuous and non-negotiable. Any attempt to interfere with officers carrying out their duties constitutes a criminal offense and will be prosecuted accordingly.

Traders occupying unauthorized roadways and public corridors are hereby directed to vacate such locations immediately, while herders are advised to keep livestock off major roads and expressways. Individuals or groups that incite, obstruct, or attempt to hijack enforcement operations endanger public safety and will face swift arrest and the full weight of the law.

Compliance is mandatory and OYRLEA urges residents to cooperate fully in the interest of public order, safety and environmental sanity for all. 

Oyo NUJ re-launches Hot Seat, Bi-Monthly Guest Forum

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has announced the re-launch of its flagship programmes, “Oyo NUJ Hot Seat” and “Oyo NUJ Bi-Monthly Guest Forum,” as part of efforts to deepen democratic engagement and promote professional journalism.

The union in a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Comrade Akeem Abas and Secretary, Comrade Temidayo Adu,  said the initiative was aimed at providing credible platform for interaction between public office holders and the people.

It said that programmes would also strengthen the role of the media in fostering accountability and transparency.

The NUJ explained that the Hot Seat Programme would feature live, incisive interviews with politicians, key government officials and stakeholders, offering journalists the opportunity to interrogate issues and bring issues of public concern to the front burner.

It said that the bi-monthly Guest Forum would serve as a high-level discourse platform where leaders across various sectors would engage with journalists and the public on critical socio-economic and political issues.

The union said that the re-launch aligns with the council’s broader vision of repositioning journalism in Oyo State through innovation, capacity building and adoption of modern media practices.

It added that the programmes would also complement ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing professionalism and equipping journalists with relevant skills in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

“The media remains a critical pillar of democracy and these platforms will further reinforce our commitment to truth, accountability, and public enlightenment,” it said.

The NUJ called on political leaders, government agencies, private organisations

and development partners to support the initiative, assuring that the programmes would be impactful, inclusive and beneficial to society at large.

The council reaffirmed its resolve to continue championing initiatives that elevate journalism practice and contribute meaningfully to good governance in Oyo state and Nigeria.

Olatunji Declares 2027 Governorship Bid, Unveils “Leadership Redefined” Agenda for Oyo State

Kunle Olatunji (KTJ) has formally declared his intention to contest the Oyo State governorship election in 2027, expressing strong confidence in his vision to succeed the incumbent governor, Seyi Makinde.

In what many observers describe as a bold and unconventional move within the Oyo State political landscape, Olatunji—popularly known as KTJ—positions himself as a reform-driven candidate determined to reshape governance in the state.

His declaration follows his resignation in compliance with the March 30 presidential directive requiring political appointees seeking elective offices to step down. Until recently, he served as Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to Senator Yunus Akintunde. He had also previously served in a similar capacity to the late former Governor, Abiola Ajimobi.

Olatunji noted that, despite being relatively unknown to the broader public, he has played strategic roles in the emergence of several past leaders in Oyo State, working closely with key stakeholders in political planning and election management.

Speaking on his motivation, he stated that his decision to run is driven by firsthand experience of governance challenges, including what he described as a lack of empathy, focus, and purposeful leadership required for sustainable growth and development.

“I have been actively involved in the evolution of Oyo State’s political landscape and have witnessed, firsthand, the persistent challenges of governance. This has strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to a new direction,” he said.

Olatunji emphasized his commitment to building a leadership model anchored on integrity, empathy, accountability, and purposeful vision. According to him, his ambition is to collaborate with like-minded individuals to restore public trust, drive inclusive governance, and reposition Oyo State as a model for effective leadership in Nigeria.

He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in a well-structured strategy that will involve robust stakeholder engagement and innovative governance solutions.

As part of his campaign rollout, Olatunji announced plans to unveil a comprehensive political strategy under the theme: “Leadership Redefined for Desired Growth and Development in Oyo State.”

“I am not in this race merely to participate,” he affirmed. “I am committed to working with the people of Oyo State to reposition our state as a pacesetter and a catalyst for the emergence of the Nigeria of our dreams.

News Alert: Oyo Govt Alerts Residents on Expected Heavy Rain Tonight

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, has advised the public that there will be heavy rainfall in the coming days, particularly the evening of today, March 31, 2026, according to the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency.

The Commissioner noted that the advisory is in line with the gradual onset of the rainy season, with Ibadan expected to experience intense rainfall in coming days, Although no major flooding is anticipated in critical areas, residents are urged to brace up and take necessary precautions.

He clarified that this notice is strictly a heavy rainfall advisory and not a flood warning regardless.  

Members of the public are therefore urged not to raise any false alarm about flooding. 

The advisory only indicates that some locations may experience heavy rainfall, and residents should remain calm while taking necessary safety measures. 

He encouraged members of the public, particularly those whose workplaces are far from their homes, to plan their movements early and ensure they reach their destinations before the commencement of rainfall to avoid being stranded.

The publics are also enjoined to make sure their windows are well secured while leaving their homes or offices before the rain 

He added that relevant government agencies will continue to issue timely advisories to keep residents informed and ensure public safety throughout the rainy season.

E-Signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade

Hon. Commissioner  for Information, 

Oyo State.

31st March, 2026.