Lagos Hosts Ethiopian Delegation to Deepen Sustainable Financing and Development Cooperation

 

The Lagos State Government, through the Office of Sustainable Development Goals (OSDGs), has hosted a high-level delegation from Ethiopia on a sub-national exchange visit aimed at strengthening collaboration on sustainable development financing and the implementation of Nigeria’s Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF).

The visit, which brought together development financing and economic planning experts from both countries, focused on sharing best practices, fostering partnerships, and exploring innovative approaches to financing sustainable development initiatives.

Welcoming the Ethiopian delegation, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Dr. Oreoluwa Finnih, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of SDGs, Mrs. Kaphayah Olayemi Sarumi, emphasized the importance of peer learning and strategic partnerships among African nations in addressing development financing challenges.

She reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to sound fiscal management, innovative financing mechanisms, and strategic partnerships that support the delivery of critical infrastructure and social development programmes.

According to Sarumi, the Integrated National Financing Framework provides a practical platform for aligning public expenditure with sustainable development priorities while ensuring measurable impact on citizens.

“Lagos State remains committed to the fiscal discipline, innovation, and partnerships required to bridge financing gaps and accelerate development outcomes. The Integrated National Financing Framework offers a structured approach for aligning our budgetary priorities with global sustainability targets while ensuring measurable impact for our citizens,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the Ethiopian delegation, its Head, Mr. Solomon Tesfasilassie, expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its hospitality and willingness to share governance and financing experiences.

Tesfasilassie noted that Ethiopia is keen to learn from Nigeria’s sub-national financing strategies as it seeks to strengthen its own development financing architecture. He also commended Lagos State’s efforts in promoting economic resilience and sustainable urban development.

In a goodwill message, the Technical Adviser to the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Dr. Bala Yunusa, highlighted the significance of knowledge exchange and regional cooperation in tackling emerging development challenges across Africa.

He stressed that stronger collaboration between national and sub-national governments is essential for unlocking innovative financing opportunities and accelerating sustainable development across the continent. Yunusa also conveyed the Federal Government’s appreciation to Lagos State for hosting the exchange programme.

The multi-day engagement featured technical sessions, policy dialogues, and inter-ministerial reviews designed to promote the exchange of ideas and experiences in development financing.

The programme further strengthened bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and Ethiopia and reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to advancing the goals of Africa’s Agenda 2063 through sustainable financing, resilient institutions, and inclusive economic growth.

Oyo Govt Fixes July 1 for Contributory Pension Scheme Take-Off

...approves 12% Employer Contribution

The Oyo State Government has fixed July 1, 2026, for the commencement of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) for officers employed into the state’s civil and public service from January 1, 2025.

The Chairman, Oyo State Post Service Board, Hon. Tunji Rafiu Adekunle (JP), disclosed this during a stakeholders’ engagement with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) held in Ibadan, noting that all necessary arrangements have been concluded for a seamless rollout.

Hon. Adekunle  described the development as a major step towards securing the future of workers, noting that the scheme will ensure a more reliable and sustainable pension system for public servants in the state.

According to him,  "the Oyo State Government will contribute 12 per cent, while employees will contribute 8 per cent of their monthly earnings, indicating the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare while also  exceeding the 10% employer contribution adopted at the federal level. 

He assured workers that the CPS is designed to strengthen, and not diminish, their welfare, stressing that the scheme will provide individual Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs), ensure transparency, and guarantee portability of benefits across employment.

“This reform is about the future of our workforce. It ensures that every worker can retire with dignity and financial security,” he said.

The Chairman further acknowledged concerns raised by some newly recruited officers and explained that implementation timelines based on employment dates are standard in public sector reforms and are not intended to disadvantage any group.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Post Service Board, Rev. Victor Adesola, noted that the new scheme will address longstanding challenges associated with the Defined Benefits Scheme, including delays in the payment of entitlements.

According to him, “the Contributory Pension Scheme introduces a more reliable, transparent and sustainable system that gives workers confidence in their retirement planning.”

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary,  Ministry of Establishments and Training, Alhaji H.A. Bello, said the reform followed extensive consultations among key stakeholders, including relevant ministries, pension administrators and regulatory bodies.

He added that the scheme would run alongside the existing Defined Benefits Scheme, while gradually building a more sustainable pension structure for the state.

The meeting brought together officials from Ministries, Departments and Agencies, labour representatives, including representatives of Pension Fund Administrators  to finalise operational strategies ahead of the scheme’s take-off.

Oyo Govt Appeals to NUT, Approves ₦8.7bn for Schools' Learning Materials

The Oyo State Executive Council has appealed to the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) to allow students to go back to school and discontinue the disruption of the academic calendar any further.

This appeal was contained in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, after the executive council meeting yesterday.

"While the reasons for the withdrawal of the students from school by the NUT are understandable, the collateral implications, both social and economic are raising unintended concerns and should equally be considered by the NUT." he said 

Council reassured that the government is taking strategic steps to ensure that the issue of the kidnapping at Oriire Local Government is  brought to a close soon.

During the session, Council approved the release of ₦8,768,954,000 (Eight Billion, Seven Hundred and Sixty-Eight Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty-Four Thousand Naira) in the first instance,  for the procurement of teaching and learning materials for primary and junior secondary schools across the state. The total cost of the project is ₦23,012,000,000 (Twenty-Three Billion, Twelve Million Naira).

In accordance with UBEC Abuja, in collaboration with the World Bank, the textbooks to be purchased will be in Numeracy, Literacy, Mathematics, English Language, and Basic Science.

According to the Commissioner, "Upon the successful procurement and distribution of the approved textbooks, Oyo State becomes eligible for a reward-based disbursement of Two United States Dollars (US$2) per student per subject, in line with the project's results-based financing arrangement."

Council also approved the realignment and supplementary budget of the year 2026.

The Commissioner added that, in order to meet the aspirations of this administration and its determination to ensure that all on-going projects across the state are completed before the end of this administration, some ministries, departments, and agencies have requested increments in their budgets. The Council therefore increased the 2026 budget from ₦892,085,074,480.79 (Eight Hundred and Ninety-Two Billion, Eighty-Five Million, Seventy-Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty Naira, Seventy-Nine Kobo) to ₦1,102,085,074,480.79 (One Trillion, One Hundred and Two Billion, Eighty-Five Million, Seventy-Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Eighty Naira, Seventy-Nine Kobo).

According to the commissioner, the Council was also  briefed on the need to approve the execution of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)-related implementation programmes being undertaken by the Office of the Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat in collaboration with the Oyo State AfCFTA Office.

He noted that the Secretary-General of AfCFTA  commended Governor Seyi Makinde for the remarkable progress recorded in the implementation of the AfCFTA initiative within the state, which has exposed Oyo State to trade and investment opportunities in Africa, particularly in the areas of industrialization, agribusiness, and export-oriented enterprises.

To this end, Council approved the payment of 250,000 dollars (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand United States Dollars) to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to provide Oyo State a good footing in attracting investment in Africa.

The Commissioner also said that after the successful implementation of Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAfER) in Oyo State last year, Council approved the total sum of ₦5,909,734,750.00 (Five Billion, Nine Hundred and Nine Million, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Four Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Naira) for the implementation of the 2026 work plan of the Health Insurance and Food Security components of SAfER.

The Commissioner recalled that SAfER was established by Governor Seyi Makinde in 2023 to cushion the economic impact of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.

As a result, transportation fares were reduced for workers, elderly people, and the vulnerable. Food was equally distributed, health insurance was established for pensioners, and the government also supported small-scale entrepreneurs.

Council was convinced that this assistance should continue because the hardship being experienced by citizens has not abated. 

The Council congratulated Gov Seyi Makinde over the return of the Shooting Stars Football Club to the elite Continental competition after 27 years. The governor said government will ensure that the Lekan Salami stadium will be ready to host the competition. 

Oyo Assembly Assures Speedy Passage Of Unplanned Pregnancy, Unsafe Abortion Bill As PLAN Foundation Backs Advocacy

The Oyo State House of Assembly has assured stakeholders that the Oyo State Unplanned Pregnancy and Unsafe Abortion (Prevention and Regulation) Bill, 2025, will receive accelerated legislative consideration as part of efforts to protect the lives, health and future of young people, particularly girls and women across the state.

The assurance was given during a public hearing on the proposed legislation held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, on Wednesday, with support from PLAN Foundation and other development partners.

The hearing brought together medical practitioners, legal experts, civil society organisations, women's groups, youth representatives and government agencies, who submitted memoranda and made contributions aimed at strengthening the bill before its final consideration by lawmakers.

Chairman of the House Committee on Health, Hon. Rilwan Saminu, said the House of Assembly was committed to ensuring that the bill receives the necessary legislative attention in view of its importance to public health and the well-being of residents.

He explained that the proposed law seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for prevention, awareness creation, education, support services, regulation and monitoring mechanisms to reduce the incidence of unplanned pregnancies and unsafe abortions in Oyo State.

According to him, many young girls and women continue to face the consequences of unplanned pregnancies, including interrupted education, limited career opportunities, health complications and social challenges.

Hon. Saminu assured stakeholders that the Assembly would carefully consider all submissions made during the hearing and ensure that the final legislation serves the best interests of the people while protecting lives and promoting healthy family and community values.

Also speaking, the Chairperson of the House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development, Hon. Olufunke Olajide, described the public hearing as a critical stage in the legislative process.

She expressed confidence that the various contributions and recommendations received from stakeholders would enrich the bill and enhance its effectiveness when eventually passed into law.

Hon. Olajide noted that families and communities often bear the burden of unplanned pregnancies through school dropouts, health complications and increased socio-economic challenges, stressing that prevention remains the central focus of the proposed legislation.

She further expressed optimism that the House of Assembly would do justice to the bill and that Governor Seyi Makinde would assent to the bill once it is passed by the House.

Dr. Akintunde Ayinde, while presenting the ministry's memorandum on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, advocated stronger provisions on confidentiality, timely access to healthcare services, and legal protection for survivors of rape, incest, and reproductive exploitation.

The ministry also recommended amendments aimed at strengthening implementation, inter-agency collaboration, and survivor-centred care in line with national laws and public health standards.

He noted that: “Over 80% of induced abortions are performed by doctors in private settings. Data on legal terminations in Nigeria are lacking, but the worsening trend and the complications that follow induced abortions indicate a lack of skills and appropriate technology for the safe termination of pregnancy".

“Comprehensive abortion care includes the provision of information, abortion management (including induced abortion), care related to pregnancy loss/spontaneous abortion, and post-abortion care".

“Strengthening access to comprehensive abortion care within the health system is fundamental to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relating to Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Gender Equality (SDG 5)".

Representatives of the Oyo State Ministry of Justice described the bill as a timely and progressive legislative initiative capable of reducing maternal morbidity and mortality while protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls.

Stakeholders at the hearing commended the Oyo State House of Assembly for its commitment to inclusive lawmaking and urged lawmakers to sustain the momentum towards the speedy passage of the bill.

They also acknowledged the support of PLAN Foundation in promoting advocacy and stakeholder engagement on issues relating to reproductive health, the protection of girls and women, and the prevention of unsafe abortion and unplanned pregnancies in the state.

State Information NUJ Pays Congratulatory Visit To (BOTAVED) Executive Secretary

...pledges Continuous Support

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Information Chapel (NUJIC), on Tuesday, paid a congratulatory visit to the newly appointed Executive Secretary of Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BOTAVED), Mr. Babatunde Ajibike, assuring the agency of its continuous support and cooperation.

The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Ismail Fasasi, congratulated the Executive Secretary on his appointment, describing it as putting “a round peg in a round hole.”

Comrade Fasasi noted that the appointment was a welcome development capable of advancing the objectives and mandates of the Agency.

 He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to sustaining a cordial working relationship with the Executive Secretary in his new position. 

On behalf of members of the chapel, he assured the agency of continuous media support through professional journalism, effective publicity, and adequate coverage of Agency's programmes and activities. 

Responding, the new Executive Secretary, Mr. Babatunde Ajibike, appreciated Almighty God for the elevation and expressed gratitude to the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, as well as the Head of Service, for finding him worthy of the appointment.

He pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him and appreciated members of NUJIC for the visit, describing the gesture as highly commendable and encouraging.

Mr. Ajibike also assured the chapel of his readiness to maintain a good working relationship with the union, stressing the important role of the media in promoting public awareness and projecting the activities of the Agency to the wider public.

Oyo Head of Service Charges Workers On Professionalism, Reaffirms Commitment To Staff Welfare

 

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Adenike Fashina mni, has called on Civil/Public Servants across the State to uphold the core values of integrity, transparency, punctuality and professionalism in service delivery. 

She made this call while addressing staff members from the Office of the Head of Service held at the HOS conference room, Secretariat, Ibadan, where she commended Permanent Secretaries, Directors, others  for their performance on duty.

She emphasized strict compliance with Civil Service rules and regulations, stressing the importance of confidentiality in handling official documents, just as she urged workers to embrace modest dressing, promptness, accountability and strong sense of duty, noting that every file processed in the system affects individuals and families livelihood.

The Head of Service encouraged continuous training and knowledge sharing among officers to improve efficiency, while acknowledging ongoing efforts to address challenges such as office facilities and running costs. 

She admonished staff to work in unity, support each other and remain committed to building a more effective and disciplined public service, as she  prayed for peace and progress in the State and the country at large.

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Service Policy and Strategy, Office of the Head of Service, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapa said public service operates on enduring values, neutrality, impartiality, respect for legality and a fair reward system that recognises excellence.

He assured the current Head of Service, absolute staff loyalty, cooperation and commitment to the successful implementation of the vision of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde.

"Your Honour, as you assume this noble responsibility, be assured of our unwavering support and collective commitment, we pledge our loyalty, professionalism and dedication to your success".

He continued. "Office of the Head of Service is blessed with highly skilled, dedicated, loyal and resourceful officers whose competence can compare favourably with that of their counterparts anywhere in the world, we are confident that under your leadership, they will continue to excel and bring honour to the Service".

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

23. June, 2026.

24.

OLUBADAN INSTALLS MOGAJIS, BAALES

His Imperial Majesty, Oba (Dr) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1), the prescribed and consenting authority on the installation of traditional rulers in Ibadanland has installed  18 Mogajis and 11 Baales at the Banquet Hall of Olubadan palace,Oke Aremo Ibadan on Monday 

Speaking through both the Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade and the Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland,Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin respectively, the newly installed Chiefs were reminded that as the accredited representatives of Olubadan and the Olubadan - In  Council, they should do away with anything that can tanish the good image of Olubadan and Ibadanland 

The statement was contained in the press release issued and signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga shortly after the installation Ceremony 

"As my Ambassadors, anywhere you find yourselves, do not be involved in any nefarious activity so that you will not be sanctioned", Oba Ladoja warned 

" Land grabbing is now the order of the day in Ibadanland frequently reported at the palace which can rarely occur without the support of , traditional rulers, consequently, I enjoin you all not to neither encourage nor support land grabbing activities as anyone caught will be prosecuted in the court of law and his bead withdrawn", the paramount ruler further stressed 

As the Chief Security Officers in your different domains, I urge you to be security conscious, be vigilant and pro- active on the issue of insecurity that is seriously threatening our existence 

The installed Mogajis were Prof Abideen Olaitan Olaiya,  Dr Surajudeen Olayiwola Bello , Engineer Ridwan Adesina Kareem ,Messers Ayoade Toyyib Ajibola,Salam Kamil, Raji Musiliudeen Abiola, Adeleke Muritala, Ibukun Taiwo Molomo, Afolabi Kazeem Aderemi and Folarin Saheed Adewale 

Other Mogajis were Messers Adeniyi Noah Adediran, Rahmon Akintunde Alawode, Olatinwo Morufu Ojeniyi, Festus Olalekan Fadare, Onashola Semiu Adedotun, Adekunle Adewale Olanrewaju, Fagunwa Kamorudeen Abiola and Babalola Taiwo Abolaji 

The newly installed Baales were Messers Azees Muideen Oyesina, Fajinmi ,Simon Adetunji Alalade, Yisau Adewale Adeleke, Rafiu Lawal Akinlapa, Taiwo Atanda Babalola, Ojo Ebenezer Adeniji Adewumi Ismaila Akano 

Others were Messers Ademola Oderinde Ogundepo, Musibau Morounranti Adefioye, Taiwo Ajayi Osoaro and Olalere Sobur Omowumi.

Present at the installation Ceremony were Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Sir) Eddy Oyewole, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr) Kolawole Adegbola, Osi Balogun of Ibadanland Oba Abiodun Kola - Daisi, Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade, Ashipa Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Abiodun Azees, Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin, Iyalode - In - Council members, traditional and religious leaders as well as distinguished invited guests.