Oyo Govt Deepens Partnership with FAO for Agricultural Growth

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining and strengthening its partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to enhance agricultural practices and boost food security across the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musbau Babatunde, gave this assurance on behalf of Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, while receiving the newly appointed FAO Country Representative at the SSG Conference Room, Secretariat, Ibadan.

Prof. Babatunde stated that the current administration is committed to harnessing strategic partnerships with international development organisations like the FAO to promote innovation, boost agricultural productivity, and achieve sustainable rural development.

He emphasized that agriculture remains a key pillar in the state’s economic agenda, adding that collaboration with global bodies would further support farmers with modern techniques, capacity building, and access to improved inputs.

The SSG also highlighted the various interventions of the state government in the agricultural sector, stressing that Oyo State is open to more technical support and knowledge exchange that would enhance value chains and promote food sufficiency.

his remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, explained that the present administration in the state has made significant progress in the agricultural sector.

He highlighted key interventions such as the promotion of mechanized farming, including the introduction of a 50 percent tractorization subsidy to support farmers, distribution of improved seedlings and farm inputs.

Also, provision of fertilizers at subsidized rates, rehabilitation of rural farm roads, irrigation support programmes, and strengthening of extension services to reach farmers at the grassroots.

He added that the government has also intensified efforts in livestock development, fisheries support, youth engagement in agribusiness, and the promotion of agro-processing and value addition to reduce post-harvest losses and increase farmers’ income.

In his remarks, the FAO Country Representative, Hussein Gadain, commended the Oyo State Government for its proactive approach to agricultural development and expressed readiness to deepen collaboration in areas such as climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness development, and food systems transformation.

Dr. Gadain further highlighted the contributions of the FAO to agricultural development in Nigeria, including support for smallholder farmers through capacity building, provision of climate-resilient seeds, promotion of sustainable farming practices, pest and disease control interventions, and strengthening of food systems. 

He noted that the organization has also been actively involved in supporting farmers with early warning systems, digital agricultural solutions, and resilience-building programmes aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change and improving food security nationwide. 

OYHA Assures Accelerated Passage of Social Protection Bill

The Oyo State House of Assembly (OYHA) has assured that the proposed Social Protection Bill will receive accelerated consideration and prompt passage once it is formally drafted and transmitted by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, gave the assurance during an interactive session with lawmakers on social protection, organised by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in collaboration with UNICEF and the European Union Support to Sustainable Social Protection Systems in Nigeria (EU-SUSI). 

The meeting was held  recently  at Hotel De Haruna Plaza, Oyo.

Represented by the Majority Leader and member representing Ogbomoso South Constituency, Hon. Soji Adedoyin, the Speaker noted that the Assembly recognises its responsibility in providing a legal framework that will guarantee the continuity and sustainability of social protection programmes beyond changes in government.

He explained that the speed of passage would depend on the timely completion and submission of the draft bill by the Ministry.

“As custodians of executive bills, we are ready to give this bill accelerated passage because of its importance to the people of Oyo State, especially the vulnerable, including children, women and the economically disadvantaged,” he said.

Ogundoyin further assured that the Assembly would not delay legislative action on the bill and would also ensure proper oversight of its implementation in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. He added that members of the House are already being sensitised and are prepared to act swiftly once the bill is presented.

In his keynote address, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Barr. Seun Ashamu, stressed the need to harmonise existing social protection initiatives into a single legal framework.

He said the state government has over the years implemented various programmes, including conditional and unconditional cash transfers, the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme, and agricultural support initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of residents.

According to him, the proposed bill seeks to consolidate these interventions into a coordinated and inclusive system that will be easily accessible to the poor and vulnerable across the state.

“The objective is to institutionalise and integrate these programmes into a unified social protection system that will ensure sustainability and long-term impact,” he said.

Hon. Ashamu added that the initiative is being driven in partnership with UNICEF and the European Union, noting that the engagement with lawmakers is to facilitate better understanding and ensure smooth passage of the bill.

He further explained that the bill would make social protection a statutory responsibility of government, guaranteeing sustained funding and implementation regardless of changes in administration.

Also speaking, the Social Policy Manager, UNICEF Lagos Office, Mr. Muhammad Okorie, commended the Oyo State Government for its commitment to social protection through policy direction and budgetary provisions.

He noted that significant allocations to education, healthcare and social protection in the 2025 budget reflect the government’s dedication to improving the welfare of its citizens.

Okorie, however, pointed out the need to bridge the gap between budgetary provisions and actual impact on vulnerable populations, stressing the importance of legislative backing.

“Without a solid legal framework, clear governance structure and predictable financing, social protection programmes remain exposed to policy changes and economic shocks, often affecting the most vulnerable,” he said.

He added that UNICEF has been supporting the state in strengthening social protection systems and emphasised that legal backing is the next critical step to ensure continuity and effectiveness.

Okorie expressed confidence that the bill would receive speedy legislative attention, noting the commitment shown by lawmakers.

Debo Akande: The Making of a System Builder

By Wale Ajao

There are some stories that are not immediately visible in public life. But they shape everything that comes after.

For many, the name Dr Debo Akande has only recently entered public conversation. What is less known is the journey that shaped the discipline behind the work.

I

n a recent interview, Dr Akande speaks to the journey that has led him down the path to where he has become a strategic name in the Oyo State conversation.

At the age of seventeen, he lost his father. 

In that moment, a decision had to be made about responsibility. Resources were scarce. So, he and his elder brother, chose to step back. On his own part, he held off tertiary education for nearly a decade so that his younger siblings could have the opportunity to go to school first.

It was not an easy decision. But it was a defining one.

What followed was not a straight path.

He worked. He traded – selling bread in traffic and later working as a trainee clearing agent in NAHCO. He navigated life at a time when survival itself required focus and resilience.

But even then, there was a quiet discipline. A refusal to lose sight of something unfinished.

He continued to read, learn and prepare.

At one point, like many young Africans searching for opportunity, he attempted to cross into Europe through the desert.

It did not work.

But that experience became part of a deeper understanding of struggle, of risk, and of the realities many young people face when opportunity is not structured.

Eventually after nine years of wilderness, he found another path.

Through persistence and support, he gained admission to study International Development in the United Kingdom. Thus, returning to formal education with clarity and purpose.

Along the way, mentorship played a defining role.

Not always from older figures, but often from peers - individuals whose guidance and perspective helped shape decisions at critical moments.

That experience would later influence a strong belief:

That mentorship is not a luxury. Mentorship is a necessity in shaping the direction of young people.

Earlier influences also mattered.

From his father, and from his uncle who gave him the opportunity to work as a political clerk. This came early exposure to grassroots realities in the second republic years of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and third republic Social Democratic Party (SDP). This shaped an understanding of how people, structures and power interact in practice.

Years later, those lessons would prove useful in governance.

For example, during the COVID-19 period, while coordinating aspects of agricultural intervention in Oyo State, a situation emerged.

A distribution plan had been developed and vetted at the state level.

But at the local level, community stakeholders felt excluded.

The response was immediate… and forceful and his team was turned back.

It was a moment that could have ended the effort.

Instead, it became a lesson.

The approach was rethought.

Engagement was prioritised.

Conversations were held.

Local realities were acknowledged.

And when the team returned, they did so differently, with a structure that accommodated both the State’s objectives and the community’s expectations.

The outcome was not just successful distribution but restored alignment.

That pattern of stepping back, reassessing, and returning with a better approach reflects a deeper instinct.

An instinct to understand before acting

Over the years, this has also shaped a particular style of leadership.

One that does not remain distant from the work.

But one that shows up.

On the ground.

Across communities.

In real conditions.

It is estimated that over the past two decades, he has traversed over 75% of Oyo State, engaging with farmers through programmes involving his work at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) across Africa, Oyo State N-CARES and Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project (LPRES), engaging directly with people, systems and realities beyond the capital.

There is also a recognition that opportunity, when given, must be fully utilised.

The platform provided through the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, created room to apply years of learning across different contexts.

And in that space, the work has reflected a consistent pattern of structure, engagement and execution.

Seen together, these experiences form something deeper than a résumé.

They reveal a process.

A gradual shaping of perspective… built through responsibility, experience, failure, mentorship and practice.

It is from this foundation that the work seen today emerges.

The result of years of preparation, often outside public view.

And perhaps that is the point.

Before systems are built… something else is built first.

Resilience.

Judgement.

Perspective.

Because in the end, systems are not just designed.

They are shaped by the experiences of the people who build them.

Ajao sent this piece from Isale Oyo, Oyo. 

Fuel Price Hike: Oyo Head of Service Commends Makinde’s Welfare Package for Civil Servants

The Oyo State Head of Service, mrs Olubunmi Oni, has praised Governor Seyi Makinde for introducing a welfare package aimed at cushioning the impact of the ongoing fuel price hike on civil servants in the state.

In a statement issued in Ibadan, Mrs. Oni urged civil and public servants across Oyo State to reciprocate the government’s gesture by redoubling their efforts and maintaining efficiency in their respective Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

The statement said, ' The welfare package is both a form of support and a motivation for improved productivity. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.

She emphasized that the governor’s initiative reflects his recognition of the dedication and hard work of the state workforce.

Mrs. Oni noted that Governor Makinde has great empathy towards the civil and public service  and had demonstrated it through his  proactive leadership by approving the payment of March salaries before the 25th of the month to  enable workers to prepare for the Sallah celebrations without financial strain.

 She added further that the governor approved a flat-rate support payment of ₦10,000 for all civil servants, regardless of grade level, including permanent secretaries, even before any formal request was made.

She described the gesture as timely and impactful, particularly in addressing transportation challenges caused by the rising cost of fuel.

She said. “To some people, it might be insignificant, but for us as civil servants, it is something we did not even expect,” she stated.

The Head of Service expressed gratitude to the governor for prioritizing worker's welfare, adding that civil servants in the state would remain committed to contributing their best towards accelerated development in the state.

Mrs. Olubunmi Oni assured  that the state workforce would continue to support the present administration’s vision by working diligently in service to the people of Oyo State.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

March 25. 2026.

Oyo Strengthens School Safety, Partners Security Agencies to Combat Violence

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding students’ lives through the establishment of a “Safe School Committee” and sustained collaboration with relevant security agencies to curb violence in schools.

The Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Olusegun Olayiwola, made this known while receiving the Safe School Civil Defence Team in his office on Monday, March 23, 2026.

Hon. Olayiwola emphasized that children are invaluable assets whose physical and mental well-being must be protected, particularly within the school environment. He stressed that schools should remain safe spaces for learning, free from all forms of violence.

The Commissioner also expressed concern over the declining level of parental involvement in children’s upbringing. He noted that many parents fail to monitor their wards’ academic activities, attendance, or performance, often leaving the responsibilities of discipline and moral guidance solely to teachers who interact with the students for only a limited number of hours each day.

Speaking earlier, the Team Leader of the Safe School Civil Defence Corps, Ogunyinka Micheal Rotimi, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing collaboration between the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the State Ministry of Education.

He explained that the Safe School Team has been actively organizing security awareness programmes for students, as well as teaching and non-teaching staff, to reduce threats and violence within schools. 

However, he called for increased government support and collaboration to enhance their effectiveness.

Ogunyinka further appealed for assistance in domesticating the “National Safety Response Center” in Oyo State. According to him, the initiative would enable a coordinated and rapid response to security threats through the collaboration of multiple security agencies. He added that dedicated emergency response lines would be established, alongside regular engagements with school principals and key education stakeholders, especially in high-risk areas.

Omotoso Olukemi

Press Officer

Ministry of Education, Science and Technology

5 OYRTMA Officials Injured, Vehicles Damaged in Soka Junction Clash Over QR Jacket Enforcement

 

Five officials of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) were injured, while several operational vehicles were damaged, following a violent clash that erupted at Soka Junction in Ibadan during the enforcement of the state’s QR-coded jacket policy on commercial motorcyclists. 

The confrontation, which reportedly involved aggrieved riders, disrupted traffic flow in the area and raised fresh concerns over resistance to the ongoing regulatory exercise.

The enforcement team, set up by the Executive Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), had earlier commenced operations in the early hours of the day, departing the agency’s administrative headquarters at about 8:15 a.m. for the Olodo axis. 

During the initial phase of the exercise, several non-compliant okada riders were apprehended, while compliance checks were successfully carried out in the Orita-Aperin and Olomi areas.

Trouble, began at about 11:10 a.m. when the team arrived at Soka Junction. Officials observed widespread non-compliance with the QR jacket directive and halted engaging riders, in a bid to  sensitize  them on the importance of the policy.

 While some groups within the park responded positively to the engagement, resistance soon emerged, allegedly instigated and led by the Unit Chairman of the park. The situation quickly escalated into violence.

 A group of aggrieved riders launched an attack on the officials, hurling stones and wooden planks. One officer was reportedly struck in the chest, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.

 Personnel of the Amotekun Corps, who accompanied the team as security backup, were also attacked and temporarily disarmed.

The violent confrontation forced the enforcement team to withdraw from the scene. In the aftermath, four operational vehicles belonging to the agency were severely damaged. As of the time of filing this report, three injured personnel remained hospitalized, while others were treated for minor injuries.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), strongly condemned the attack, describing it as “barbaric, unacceptable, and a direct assault on constituted authority.”

  "Our officers were on lawful duty to enforce a government policy designed to ensure security, accountability, and proper regulation of commercial motorcycle operations across Oyo State.                               "It is deeply unfortunate that they were met with such violent resistance."

Adekoya further emphasized that the QR jacket initiative is aimed at improving public safety, curbing criminal activities, and creating a reliable identification system for okada riders.

“We will not be deterred by acts of violence. The enforcement will continue, and those responsible for this attack will be identified and brought to justice,” he added.

He also called on stakeholders, including transport unions and community leaders, to support the government’s efforts and educate their members on the importance of compliance.

Security agencies have reportedly been notified, and investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Why I Want to Be Governor of Oyo State – Odidiomo

A leading aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, has declared that his ambition to become governor is driven by a desire to serve the people.

Olajide, who currently serves as Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, said the governorship position is not a right but a responsibility that must be earned through dedication and competence.

Olajide, in a chat with a delegation of journalists led by the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, Comrade Akeem Abas in his residence on sunday evening, explained that his long-standing loyalty to Oyo State and his consistent record in politics have positioned him as a credible candidate for the job.

“I have remained stable and loyal to Oyo State. I have never left my party for any reason, and I have always placed service above personal gain,” he said.

According to him, his background as a trained computer science expert also gives him an edge in driving innovation and modern governance in the state.

Olajide further stated that the developmental roadmap being implemented by the current administration under Governor Seyi Makinde led administration must be sustained and improved upon for the benefit of residents.

He stressed that continuity in governance would ensure that ongoing projects are completed and that the state continues on the path of growth and stability.

On security, the aspirant noted that strengthening the state’s security architecture would be a top priority under his administration.

He added that efforts toward state policing must be advanced to ensure a more coordinated and effective response to security challenges.

Olajide also pledged to consolidate the achievements of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, by improving its operations and expanding its capacity.

In the area of education, he promised to maintain globally accepted standards, including those recommended by UNESCO, to ensure quality learning across the state while emphasising that education remained a key driver of development and must be given priority attention.

Speaking on economic development, Olajide said his administration would create investment opportunities through agribusiness, while also sustaining existing initiatives in the sector.

He revealed plans to establish multiple free trade zones across the state to attract investors and boost internally generated revenue.

The PDP aspirant further assured that small and medium-scale enterprises would be supported to thrive, thereby creating jobs and improving livelihoods.

He also outlined plans to digitize the state’s economy, with a vision to position Ibadan as a major digital hub in the South-West region.

Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West and Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, noted that his experience at the National Assembly has prepared him for higher responsibility.

He disclosed that as Chairman of the House Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity, he has facilitated the establishment of Community ICT Centres across Oyo State.

He maintained that these achievements reflect his commitment to grassroots development and his readiness to deliver more if elected governor.