OYO GOVT DEEPENS COMMITMENT TO GLOBAL EXCELLENCE AS LAUTECH GRADUATES 10,223

 ...Approves  ₦650 Million  For  Iseyin Campus  Development

The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to sustaining strategic reforms and investments that will further elevate the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, into a globally competitive centre of excellence in innovation, research, and development.

Speaking at the 18th Convocation Ceremony of the University,  the Oyo state Governor, His excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde said the State Government is deepening efforts to strengthen the institution through deliberate policies, sustained funding, and targeted infrastructure expansion to consolidate long-term academic excellence and institutional growth

The Governor recalled his 2018 pledge to resolve the ownership challenges of the University, noting that the transition to sole ownership by Oyo State has brought stability and improved academic performance.

He stated that the State Government has continued to meet its financial obligations under the ownership arrangement and remains committed to clearing all outstanding commitments before the end of the present administration.

He further disclosed that a ₦650 million take-off grant has been approved for the Teaching and Research Farm at the Iseyin Campus, alongside investments in infrastructure, ICT, healthcare, housing, and mobility support

He explained that the development of the Iseyin Campus aligns with the State’s broader economic agenda on agriculture, food security, youth employment, and agribusiness expansion.

The Governor noted that LAUTECH has continued to enjoy stability, uninterrupted academic calendars, and improved stakeholder confidence since the resolution of ownership issues.

 He  commended the Governing Council, management, staff, and students for sustaining discipline and academic excellence, assuring continued government support for teaching, research, and innovation and further congratulated the 10,223 graduands who bagged various degrees across disciplines, urging them to remain disciplined, innovative, and solution-driven in their future endeavours

He said “Education remains a key investment that drives development and prosperity,”

“We will continue to strengthen the University to ensure it competes favourably with leading institutions across Africa and beyond,”  

In his address, the Vice-Chancellor of the University,  Professor Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, described the convocation as a milestone in the history of the institution, noting steady growth in academic and research activities.

He said LAUTECH continues to maintain its standard as a centre of excellence in teaching and research, adding that the University remains committed to producing graduates with knowledge, skills, and character for global relevance.

The Vice-Chancellor disclosed that 10,223 students bagged degrees across 11 faculties, with 137 graduating with First Class honours.

stressing that Oladepo Caleb Olugbenga of the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering emerged as the overall best graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.89

He also revealed that the University has strengthened its academic and research capacity through the promotion of 43 professors and the establishment of new research institutes.

Professor Kalilu noted that ongoing investments in infrastructure, research facilities, and digital learning are positioning LAUTECH for greater global recognition. 

Oyo Govt Approves ₦153.5 Million Bursary for Law Students

The Oyo State Government has approved the payment of bursaries to law students of Oyo State origin as part of efforts to ease their financial burden.

This was disclosed by the Secretary of the Oyo State Scholarship Board, Mr. Amos Akinyanju, during a briefing in his office.

According to him, a total sum of ₦153,500,000 has been approved for 307 beneficiaries in the 2024/2025 regular set across the seven accredited law schools nationwide.

Mr. Akinyanju further announced that the screening exercise for beneficiaries will commence on Monday, April 27 and run through Thursday, April 30, starting at 10:00 a.m. daily. The exercise will take place at the Scholarship Board Room, Ground Floor, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Agodi, Ibadan.

Providing a breakdown of the schedule, he stated that students from Enugu and Yenagoa campuses will be screened on Monday, while those from Port Harcourt and Yola campuses are slated for Tuesday. Students from Abuja and Kano campuses will be screened on Wednesday, with Lagos campus students scheduled for Thursday.

He advised all beneficiaries to carefully note their designated screening dates and adhere strictly to the schedule to ensure a smooth and orderly process.

For further inquiries, beneficiaries are encouraged to call 08062563729.

Oyo Govt Plants 100 Trees, Launches “Walk for the Planet” to Mark World Earth Day 2026

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, has commemorated World Earth Day 2026 with a series of impactful initiatives aimed at promoting a cleaner, greener, and healthier environment.

Speaking at the press conference, the Honourable Commissioner, Engr. Dr. Ademola Aderinto, emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” noting that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility requiring collective action from government, communities, and individuals.

As part of activities to celebrate World Earth Day, the Ministry, in collaboration with For Nature and Future Eco-Green Initiatives (FONAFEGI), conducted a symbolic tree planting exercise during which 100 trees were planted to promote climate action and environmental sustainability. 

The Commissioner described tree planting as a critical step toward improving air quality, reducing carbon emissions, preventing soil erosion, and preserving biodiversity.

He further called on residents, organizations, and private sector stakeholders to partner with the Ministry in planting more trees across the State, stressing that sustained collaboration is essential to achieving long-term environmental goals.

Additionally, the World Earth Day celebration features a structured programme tagged “Walk for the Planet,” scheduled from April 22 to April 25, 2026, designed to mobilize grassroots participation and deepen environmental awareness statewide.

The Commissioner also outlined key measures undertaken by the Ministry, including strengthened environmental sanitation enforcement, intensified inspection of markets, eateries, hotels, and industries, and the implementation of a decentralized waste management system across all local government areas.

The Commissioner urged all residents of Oyo State to embrace proper waste management practices, avoid indiscriminate dumping, reduce reliance on single-use plastics, and actively participate in environmental sustainability programmes.

He also commended members of the media and development partners for their continued support in promoting environmental awareness.

The Commissioner stated that as World Earth Day is commemorated, there is a need to renew collective commitment to protecting the environment for present and future generations, noting that the actions taken today will determine the quality of life tomorrow.

In a separate goodwill message, the  Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, stated that World Earth Day serves as a reminder of the realities of climate change and its growing impact on human health.

She noted that science continues to show increasing extreme heat, changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, and shifting disease trends, with some illnesses now occurring outside their usual seasons, particularly around rainfall periods.

 According to her, this demonstrates clearly that the climate is changing and demands urgent attention.

Dr. Ajetunmobi emphasized that this year’s activities reflect the importance of environmental sustainability. She stressed the need to sustain and protect the environment through continuous public awareness on tree planting, prevention of deforestation, and proper waste management.

The Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Sola Akande, also delivered his goodwill message, stating that the agency will collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen environmental health initiatives in the state.

He announced that the agency will enroll all street sweepers in Oyo State into the health insurance scheme to ensure their access to quality healthcare services. 

"According to him, this initiative is aimed at protecting those who contribute directly to keeping the environment clean, thereby promoting a healthier, more productive, and sustainable society.

In his welcome address, The Executive Director of FONAGEGI, Mr. Elijah Adejimi, spoke with urgency, calling for collective action to protect the environment. He urged continued tree planting and stewardship, noting that progress so far should inspire renewed commitment to a greener, sustainable future.

The event was attended by dignitaries including the Representative of the Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Information, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State among others.

OYRLEA Raids an alleged Illegal Scrap Yard in Oyo, Arrests Suspected Operator

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has raided an alleged illegal scrap yard in the Gedu Oroki, Ifarinu area of Oyo town, arresting a 64-year-old man over suspected road encroachment, environmental violations, and possession of items pending verification.

and possession of various items whose ownership is yet to be ascertained

The enforcement operation, carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources and security personnel, followed complaints from residents regarding alleged encroachment on road setbacks and environmental concerns.

During the operation, officials discovered  various materials, including streetlights, electric poles, roofing sheets, generators, pumping machines, vulcanizing equipment, flushing machines, condemned vehicles, motorcycles, iron doors, burglary-proof materials, and metal fixtures, many of which were suspected to be stolen or unlawfully acquired. Authorities stated that investigations are ongoing to determine the origin and ownership of the items.

Further inspection revealed pits within the premises allegedly used for rearing cows and pigs, raising concerns about possible breaches of environmental and public health regulations.

The suspect reportedly claimed to have occupied the land for over 30 years, stating that his business started with buying and selling roofing sheets before expanding into a larger scrap operation. He also claimed to have receipts for the items in his possession but failed to present any documentation when requested.

Given the severity of the findings, enforcement officers did not issue an abatement notice but proceeded with an immediate arrest and suspect has since being transferred to the Nigerian Police force Oyo State command, Eleyele Ibadan.

OYRLEA officials stated that the action reflects the state government’s commitment to enforcing environmental laws, protecting public infrastructure, and maintaining order.

Oyo Govt Launches Free Evening Markets Classes To Tackle Out-Of -School Menace

 

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every school-age child has access to basic education, describing it as a fundamental right guaranteed by law. 

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known on Thursday while briefing the media in his office,Ibadan, urging  the parents, guardians, community leaders, and market stakeholders to collaborate with the government.

Hon. Olayiwola explained that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has adopted an alternative approach to enforcing compliance with compulsory basic education. 

He noted that instead of focusing solely on penalties for parents, the government is introducing flexible learning opportunities for children who are currently out of school.

The commissioner maintained that the state government will organize free evening classes for children engaged in menial jobs within major markets.

He said that the pilot phase of the programme will take place in Mokola/Sabo, Bodija, and Agbeni/Idi-kan markets.

According to him, the programme is scheduled to commence on Monday, April 27, 2026, while the classes will start at 4pm and close at 6pm daily. 

The designated centres include: St. Brigid’s Primary School, Mokola (for children in Sabo/Mokola axis)

St. Patrick’s Basic School, Idi-kan, Agbeni (for children in Idi-kan, Agbeni and surrounding areas)

Methodist Primary School, Bodija (for children in Bodija and environs)

He called on parents, guardians, and traders in these markets to support the initiative by allowing and encouraging affected children to attend the two-hour evening classes.

In her remarks, the Director of Basic Education, Mrs. Susan Oladipo, revealed that members of the State Steering Committee on Almajiri and Out of School had conducted awareness and sensitization visits to the three markets. 

She noted that market leaders pledged their full support by helping to identify vulnerable children and encouraging their participation in the programme.

OYO APPROVES N5.8BN FOR CIRCULAR ROAD PROPERTY OWNERS

The Oyo State Executive Council meeting, chaired by the State Governor, has approved compensation for over 900 property owners whose lands were affected by the ongoing construction of the Ibadan Circular Road

In a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, a total of N5,813,000,000 (Five Billion, Eight hundred and Thirteen Million Naira) will be paid to these categories of people.

The Council noted that the compensation will not only put a stop to the agitation and misinformation surrounding this laudable project, but will also pave the way for accelerated planning and development, foster investors' confidence, and bring to reality the vision of a transformed urban development of Ibadan and Oyo State as conceived by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The Council recalled that over N800,000,000 (Eight Hundred Million Naira) had earlier been paid in the first phase as compensation for  displaced  persons  in the past 18 months 

According to the Information Commissioner, Oyo State is one of the few states in the Federation that has continued to support the masses since the removal of the fuel subsidy

The introduction of the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER), set up by the State Government since 2023, has positively impacted the lives of the masses through interventions such as food relief/palliatives, health insurance, MSME support, and transportation

The Council also approved the sum of N710,382,000 (Seven Hundred and Ten Million, Three Hundred and Eighty- Two Thousand Naira) to cover transportation subsidy for the period between March and August 2026.

Prince Dotun Oyelade recalled that last year alone, over 4 million commuters, including pensioners, students, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, benefited from between 50 and 100 percent transportation subsidies in the State.

The State Executive Council noted the strategic importance of the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Okaka Junction–Otu–Igbeti–Kishi road and the construction of bridges over the Otu and Ofiki rivers at a cost of N26,482,664,000 (Twenty-Six Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Six Hundred and Sixty-Four thousand naira)

Council also approved the expansion of this project by N3,981,431,000 (Three Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-One Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-One Thousand Naira)

According to the Information Commissioner, Council further approved the completion of the Oyo State Christian Wing multipurpose hall, which was initiated over 25 years ago during the administration of Governor Lam Adesina

He said that the  completion will cost N126,912,000 (One Hundred and Twenty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Twelve Thousand Naira)

Prince Oyelade added further that In continuation of the Administration’s belief in entrenching the State's  culture and expanding it's global potentials,  Council approved the hosting of the Year 2026 Oyo state International Tourism Summit, stressing that  the Council believed that the approval will consolidate the huge successes recorded in previous editions.

Oyo Govt Reaffirms Commitment To Cultural promotion

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion and preservation of Yoruba cultural heritage by launching its cultural anthem.

Speaking at the Press Conference heralding activities towards the year 2026 World Egungun Festival at the Cultural Centre,Mokola,Ibadan,

the State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, described the festival as a significant cultural asset that continues to showcase the rich traditions of the Yoruba people to the global community.

 He noted that the World Egungun Festival has gained international recognition, attracting tourists, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts from across the world.

Olatubosun disclosed that this year’s edition will feature a wide range of activities including

the official launch of the Cultural Anthem, with lyrics written by the Honourable Commissioner and contributions from key stakeholders, including Chief Dipo Gbenro, Mr. Biodun Adekanbi, Dr. Fayemi Fakayode, Mr. S.A. Agboola, and the Oyo State Cultural Troupe, cultural exhibitions, symposiums, and community engagements aimed at deepening awareness and appreciation of Yoruba heritage.

According to him, over 150 Egungun from Oyo State, neighbouring states, and the diaspora are expected to participate, alongside more than 120 cultural groups and stakeholders in a colourful cultural parade.

He said The Brazilian Ministry of Culture has also indicated interest in future collaboration, while the British High Commission is expected to deliver a goodwill message",the Olatunbosun revealed.

The Commissioner called on stakeholders, private organizations, and the media to partner with the government to ensure the success of the festival, stressing that such collaboration is vital for boosting cultural tourism and economic development.

He further revealed that awards and prizes would be presented to outstanding participants in various categories, including the most spectacular Egungun, most entertaining performance, and most colourful group. 

Also speaking at the press conference, Professor Sola Olorunyomi of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, highlighted the academic significance of Egungun tradition. 

He noted that the symposium will explore the cultural, historical, and socio-economic relevance of Egungun, including its impact on fashion, theatre, and the creative economy.

 He also advocated for the use of indigenous terminology in cultural discourse especially the word "Egungun."

In her remarks, Mrs. Omobolanle Senbanjo of the Sahara Centre, Lagos, emphasized the importance of examining the evolving nature of Egungun within the context of modern society. 

She stated that the symposium, themed; “The Creative Economy of Egungun: Tradition, Tension and Transformation,” will explore how traditional practices adapt to globalization and digital innovation.

The Chairman of Ijo Oje Parapo Welfare Association in Oyo State, representing the global body, commended the Commissioner for supporting cultural initiatives, including the recognition of Isese Day, and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to preserving the authenticity of the Egungun tradition.

Activities will commence with a symposium on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Local Government Hall, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, while the grand finale will take place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Liberty Stadium, Ibadan.

Dignitaries expected at the festival include the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, as Special Guest of Honour, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, as Royal Father of the Day, and the Honourable Minister for Culture and Tourism.

The 2026 World Egungun Festival is expected to attract over 18,000 participants and further position Oyo State as a leading destination for cultural tourism in Nigeria.