Oyo Govt Signs MoU with Araromi LCDA on Iyake Suspended Lake

The Oyo State Government has formally signed and presented a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to the Araromi Local Council Development Area (LCDA) for the temporary management of the Iyake Suspended Lake, Ado Awaye.

The agreement was facilitated through the Oyo State Ministry of Culture and Tourism at the office of the Honourable Commissioner, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun.

Earlier, a letter of engagement had been issued to the LCDA regarding the temporary overseeing of the Iyake Suspended Lake following the expiration of the previous management’s two-year tenure.

Speaking at the presentation of the MoU document, the Commissioner described the arrangement as temporary and in line with the State Government’s commitment to ensuring proper management of its tourism assets.

“This arrangement is temporary as we are handing over to you as caretakers. Whenever the Oyo State Government decides to take over, you will be duly informed,” he stated.

He urged the LCDA officials to manage the tourist site effectively until a new investor is secured, emphasizing that the site remains the property of the Oyo State Government and not the host community.

In their separate remarks, the Acting Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA), Mrs Abiodun Oladimeji- Dauda and the Political Head, Mr Tiamiyu Ibrahim expressed appreciation to the State Government for the confidence reposed in them.

 They assured the Ministry and by extension the Oyo State Government, of their commitment to diligent and effective management of the tourist attraction during the interim  period.

Oyo Govt Enhances Workforce Capacity, Trains 130 Civil Servants

 ...plans to expand training to All cadres 

The Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Establishments and Training, has trained 130 civil servants to enhance  public service delivery in the state.

The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Professor Saliu Adelabu, stated this at  a 3-day workshop organized for civil servants across five cadres held  at the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Center, Secretariat, Ibadan.   

He explained that the ministry is set to expand its capacity-building programmes to cover all cadres in the state civil service through a new initiative called ‘Project 360 Degree.

According to the commissioner, the State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde is working assiduously to restore the center to its formal status as the premier training institute not only in the southwest but in the whole of Nigeria.

He pointed to the ongoing projects at the facility and the increased budgetary allocation for training as clear evidence that the Governor remains steadfast in fulfilling his promises.

 “This administration continues to prioritize workers’ welfare and training as key pillars for sustainable development, as well as the prompt payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities, and the approval of the N80,000 minimum wage effective from January 2025, thus making Oyo State a pace-setter in workers’ remuneration in Nigeria.”

“In the same vein, today marks the commencement of a series of workshops of which you are beneficiaries, as this administration knows that a motivated workforce is the engine of progress.”

 

"This further underscores the unwavering commitment of the Seyi Makinde-led administration to strengthening workforce morale and equipping employees to compete effectively with their counterparts in other sectors, with the clear understanding that a healthy and satisfied workforce is the foundation of productivity and prosperity."

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mr.Alade Bello, charged the participants to utilize the training as a platform to enhance their service delivery. 

He emphasized that the government expects to see  improvement in their operational performance as a result of the workshop.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Center, Mrs Stella Okedum reiterated the center’s commitment to designing and implementing impactful programmes aimed at strengthening the state civil service and aligning it with global best practices.

Oyo Govt Strengthens Industrial Environmental Compliance as Durante Farms Upgrades Effluent Plant

Oyo Govt Strengthens Industrial Environmental Compliance as Durante Farms Upgrades Effluent Plant

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to public health and environmental protection as Durante Farms Limited commenced the upgrade of its Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to meet world-class standards.

The Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Engr. (Dr.) Ademola Aderinto, officially flagged off the upgrade, described it as a decisive move to strengthen environmental compliance and safeguard communities across Oyo State.

 He stressed that the government remains resolute in ensuring that industries operate within approved environmental standards there by ensuring the protection of the health and safety of the citizens.

He reiterated that industries operating within the state must strictly comply with environmental regulations aimed at preventing pollution and preserving host communities.

According to the Commissioner, industries engaged in wet processing activities, including food production, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical operations, generate wastewater that must be properly treated before discharge. Without efficient treatment systems, such wastewater could contaminate groundwater and nearby water bodies with harmful chemical and biological substances.

“A properly upgraded and fully functional Effluent Treatment Plant guarantees that discharged water meets approved environmental standards and poses no threat to residents or the ecosystem,” he stated. “Compliance is not optional, and enforcement will continue to be strengthened.”

He noted that the objectives of the upgrade include minimizing environmental risks, ensuring strict regulatory compliance, enhancing operational efficiency, promoting resource recovery, and setting a sustainability benchmark for similar facilities within and beyond Oyo State.

The Commissioner commended the management of Durante Farms Limited for responding promptly to the Ministry’s directive and aligning its operations with global best practices in environmental management.

Dr. Aderinto also used the occasion to promote complementary environmental initiatives such as tree planting. He highlighted the Neem tree, popularly known as Dogonyaro, for its air-purifying properties, rapid growth, and suitability as a natural hedge around industrial and residential areas.

The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustained monitoring, strict enforcement, and strategic collaboration with stakeholders to ensure that industrial expansion in Oyo State advances in harmony with environmental sustainability and the protection of public health.

In his remarks, the Human Resources Manager of Durante Farms Limited, Mogaji Adekola Kamorudeen, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability, public health, and staff welfare.

He assured that the company prioritizes the wellbeing of host communities and ensures that its operations pose no environmental risk.

He further stressed that staff welfare remains a core value of the company, noting that Durante Farms Limited diligently implements the Federal Government’s approved minimum wage policy, reflecting its commitment to fairness, regulatory compliance, and corporate responsibility.

2027: Tinubu charged to direct political appointees to resign

 

A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Alliance for Good Governance, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to direct all the political appointees in his cabinet that are interested in the 2027 elections to resign with immediate effect.

The group made the appeal in a statement jointly signed by its Coordinator, Comrade Raheem Bakare and Secretary, Comrade Sunday Ayoade, respectively.

It enjoined the President to be wary of those who will be dropping his name to seek undue advantage over others, stating that as the father of the party it is important he provides level playing field for all the aspirants.

According to the group, since his foray into politics President Tinubu has always ensured that democracy thrives among the people, noting that those who are only interested in taking advantage of the goodwill of the President must be stopped. 

The group while maintaining that members of the party in the pace setter state should be allowed to choose those who will fly the flag of the party, insisted that allowing political appointees to contest without resigning their positions will be tantamount to portraying them as been super members of the party. 

It stated further that if the political appointees do not resign their positions they will take advantage to lobby their way to win the tickets of the party, stating that President Tinubu owe it to loyal party members to protect their interest.

The statement read, "We want to sincerely appeal to the leader of our great party, APC and dear President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to direct the political appointees in his administration who are interested in vying for political positions during the 2027 elections to resign immediately. By doing this it would not but provide level playing field for the the aspirants.

"It is no doubt that the President has a record of being a real democrat and we believe that issuing this directive will give assurance to the teeming members of the party and aspirants that he is the father of all who will not confer an undue advantage on any aspirant."

Twins Tourism Mourns the Passing of Adegbodu Taiwo

 

With heavy hearts and in total submission to the will of Almighty God, we announce the painful passing of Adegbodu Taiwo — a brother, friend, pillar, and passionate advocate of the twins community. His transition is a profound loss that has left us deeply shaken and reflective.

The founders of Twins Tourism, Amb. Taiwo and Kehinde Oguntoye — widely known as The Most Famous Twins in Tourism and initiators of the World Twins Festival — mourn this great loss with immense sorrow.

For nearly two decades, we shared not merely a partnership, but a genuine bond of brotherhood with the Adegbodu Twins. From the earliest days of Twins Tourism, they believed strongly in the vision and stood firmly in support of it.

Their commitment was never distant — it was practical, visible, sacrificial, and heartfelt.

At the maiden edition of the Naija Twins Festival held at the Cultural Centre, Ibadan, in 2009, the Adegbodu Twins performed with a full live band, bringing life, rhythm, and unforgettable vibrancy to a historic gathering of twins. Beyond their performance, they volunteered wholeheartedly — lending their creativity and talent to produce and perform the signature tune for Travel with the Twins, alongside many other selfless contributions that strengthened the foundation of our movement.

Adegbodu Taiwo was a man of warmth, loyalty, humility, and quiet strength. His presence radiated sincerity, and his unwavering commitment to unity within the twins community remains part of his enduring legacy. His passing is not only a personal loss to us, but a significant blow to the twins family he helped nurture and grow.

We deeply commiserate with his twin brother, Kehinde; his beloved wife; his children; and the entire Adegbodu family during this painful time. We pray especially for divine strength upon his twin brother in this moment of unimaginable grief — that God grants him the grace to remain steadfast and comforted by cherished memories.

Though our hearts are heavy, we accept God’s calling with faith and humility. May the Almighty Lord console and comfort us all. May He uphold the family he has left behind. And may He continue to protect, preserve, and strengthen twins across the world.

May the soul of Adegbodu Taiwo rest in perfect peace.

Prophet Godwin Ikuru Hails Dr. Ayo Ogunsa’s Reappointment as LSSTF Executive Secretary

The Founder of Jehovah Eye Salvation Ministry, Prophet Godwin Ikuru, has congratulated the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayo Ogunsa, on his reappointment for a second term by Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

Speaking over the weekend in Lagos, Prophet Ikuru described Dr. Ogunsa’s reappointment as well-deserved, citing his dedication and unwavering commitment to strengthening security across the state.

The cleric commended Dr. Ogunsa for his exemplary leadership and performance at the LSSTF, noting that his efforts have played a significant role in enhancing security operations and providing critical support to law enforcement agencies throughout Lagos State.

According to Prophet Ikuru, continuity in leadership at the LSSTF will help consolidate the progress already made in improving security and foster sustained collaboration between the government and private sector stakeholders.

He further urged Dr. Ogunsa to remain steadfast and continue advancing Lagos State’s security architecture for the safety and well-being of all residents.

We Will Continue to Prioritize Leadership Development for Public Service - Oyo HOS

The  Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has disclosed that the State Civil Service is committed to professionalism, discipline and improved service delivery.

She stated this during a courtesy visit paid by the Institute of Leadership Coaching and Strategy,  and Award giving Ceremony held at the HOS Conference room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

She said the present administration in the State led by Governor Seyi Makinde would continue to prioritise leadership development with focus on character, vision, integrity and accountability. 

She said "Since I assumed office as the Head of Service, my team has made significant strides in the following areas, 

- Implementing performance management systems, by  enhancing accountability and transparency

- Developing cadreship training programs, by building capacity for current and future leaders

- Strengthening our policy framework, by driving strategic reforms and innovations

- Fostering a culture of excellence, by  recognising and rewarding outstanding performances".

The Head of Service commended the Institute for the recognition and leadership award bestowed on few outstanding leaders within the Oyo State Civil Service which according to her, is a step to motivate excellence and inspire emerging leaders.

Mrs Olubunmi Oni hinted further that the State workforce is  eager to collaborate with the Institute on leadership coaching, mentoring, strategic development and ethical leadership training, enhancing capacity and strengthening institutional performance.

"I am confident this partnership will drive reform and build a modern, responsive, and citizen-focused Civil Service, make this visit fruitful and enriching as we explore growth opportunities".

       

                                                                                                                                                          In his Welcome Address  the Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Office of the Head of Service, Mr. Taiwo Niran Mustapha said leadership is not simply a position to be occupied, it is a sacred calling, a responsibility, and above all, a way of life. 

He said "Leadership is behavioural, and it is through conduct that true leaders are distinguished. Guided by the Head of Service, we are resolved to embody strategic leadership in pursuit of the vision and objectives of our principal, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde". 

Responding, the President and Chairman of the Institute, Dr. Olasunkande Azees  appreciated Governor Seyi Makinde for his administration’s giant strides and monumental reformative agenda in the State. 

Dr. Azees said "We believe our values align with the Oyo State Government's transformative initiatives and our objectives can be mutually beneficial to both sides. By partnering with your Office on behalf of the professional civil servants across the State, we can support the civil service commission’s drive for leadership capacity renewal, promote good governance, evidence-based performance and contribute to sustainable development of Oyo State".

He therefore sought collaboration with the Oyo State Government through the office of the Head of Service with capacity building of Public Service Leaders  through training, coaching strategy, strategic retreat  that would sharpen their skills, enrich their knowledge  and equip their leadership competence with cutting-edge skills, enhancing service delivery and governance in the new normal. 

The Institute then bestowed awards of Leadership Development in Public Service to the State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni alongside the Hon. Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Professor, Soliu Adelabu, the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Oyo State, Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe and Nine Permanent Secretaries in the Oyo State Civil Service. 

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

March 2, 2026.