Oyo Anti-Corruption Agency Inaugurates Integrity Ambassadors in Ibarapa

 

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The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has inaugurated Integrity Ambassadors Clubs at the Oyo State College of Education, Lanlate, and Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, in a bid to strengthen transparency, accountability and ethical conduct in institutions across Ibarapa Zone.

Speaking at the separate inauguration ceremonies held on Tuesday at the two institutions, the Executive Secretary of OYACA, Dr. Folasade Ajibade, said the initiative was designed to identify future leaders early and instil in them the values of integrity, transparency and accountability from the grassroots.

Dr. Ajibade recalled that OYACA was inaugurated by Governor Seyi Makinde in December 2020 with the mandate to combat corruption and strengthen ethical standards across the state, adding that the agency has been in full operation since April 2021.

According to her, the Agency has deliberately extended its enlightenment campaigns to tertiary institutions where future leaders are trained, because youths are not just leaders of tomorrow but catalysts for change today.

"The youth are the leaders of tomorrow, they are the decision makers of the near future who will shape the nation's destiny. When we consider the passion, creativity and determination of young people worldwide, we will discover that they are not just leaders of tomorrow but catalysts for change today," she said.

She explained that the Integrity Ambassadors initiative was conceived to serve as an anti-corruption vanguard in tertiary institutions across Oyo State, engaging students in anti-corruption programmes and preparing them for a future founded on integrity, transparency and accountability.

Dr. Ajibade charged the newly inaugurated ambassadors to uphold integrity by maintaining clean academic records and demonstrating honesty in their daily lives. 

She urged them to promote integrity by championing anti-corruption values among their peers through sensitisation campaigns, debates and essay competitions. 

Dr. Ajibade also encouraged them to report any act of corruption observed within or outside their campuses to any branch office of OYACA.

 She described corruption as the abuse of a position of trust for personal gain, identifying various forms of corruption to include demanding or accepting gratification in the performance of official duties, inappropriate use of political power, and demand for sexual gratification.

She also listed nepotism, misappropriation of public funds, and the non-performance or improper performance of contracts awarded by Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

The Executive Secretary assured that OYACA will continue to support the ambassadors with training, materials and mentorship, urging all stakeholders to join efforts to make Oyo State, as the pacesetter state, a corruption-free society and a reference point for transparency and accountability in Nigeria.

Earlier, in his remarks, the Acting Provost of the College of Education, Lanlate, *Dr. Olamide Lamidi*, appreciated OYACA for choosing the institution for the programme. He described the inauguration as timely and in line with the core values of the college, which is built on character and learning.

Dr. Lamidi  pledged the management's full support to sustain the club. 

He charged the ambassadors to be good role models and to let their conduct reflect the integrity they preach.

Similarly, the Deputy Rector of Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa, Dr. Akinsanya Oke, who represented the Rector, commended OYACA for extending the campaign to the Polytechnic. 

Dr. Oke noted that the Polytechnic has put measures in place to promote transparency and discipline among staff and students. He assured that the management will give the Integrity Ambassadors Club the necessary institutional backing to thrive and urged the students to take the responsibility seriously as future leaders.

The events climaxed with the formal inauguration of the OYACA Integrity Ambassadors, College of Education, Lanlate Chapter and Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic Eruwa Chapter, with presentation of badges and oath of integrity by the members.

In attendance at the event were the Management staff of OYACA; Director of Finance and account Mr Tajudeen Azeez, Director Administration and Supplies Mr Wasiu Alimi, and the Chief Legal Officer Mrs Eto-Abasi Olayanju among others.

2027 Budget: Oyo Govt Engages Stakeholders Across Seven Zones

The Oyo State Government has commenced stakeholders’ engagement and consultative meetings across the seven geographical zones of the State as part of efforts to obtain citizens’ inputs into the preparation of the 2027 Budget.

The exercise, being organised by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, is aimed at providing an avenue for residents, traditional rulers, community leaders, organised groups and other stakeholders to present their priority needs and development concerns for consideration in the 2027 Budget.

The consultative meetings are being held across the seven geographical zones of the State, namely Oke-Ogun Zone I, Oke-Ogun Zone II, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa, Ibadan Main City and Ibadan Greater City.

Speaking at the engagement in Aago-Are, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Adebayo Lawal, said the exercise was part of the administration’s commitment to listening directly to the people and ensuring that their needs and priorities form part of the State’s budget planning process.

He explained that the government was particularly interested in receiving the views of residents on critical areas of development, including road infrastructure, security, healthcare, education and other sectors that directly affect the wellbeing and economic activities of the people.

On road infrastructure, the Deputy Governor assured residents that the government would continue to give attention to roads linking rural communities with urban centres, noting that improved road networks would facilitate the movement of people and farm produce.

He said the administration recognised the importance of connecting rural communities to major towns, stressing that good roads would help ensure that agricultural produce from rural areas could move easily to urban markets.

Lawal disclosed that the Nigerian Army had approved the establishment of an Army Battalion in Kishi, assuring that the State Government would provide the necessary support to strengthen security in the area.

The Deputy Governor noted that Oke-Ogun had abundant solid mineral resources and urged traditional rulers to ensure their responsible exploitation in line with government regulations.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Barr. Ayobami Ojo, said the importance of the engagement was to provide an opportunity for everyone to contribute to the preparation of the 2027 Budget. He assured the stakeholders that their submissions would be considered and reflected in the budget where appropriate.

Also speaking at the Iseyin Local Government Secretariat, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Hon. (Alhaja) Faosat Joke Sanni, appreciated the people of Oke-Ogun Zone I for their cooperation and support for the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, urging them to sustain the support.

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mr Julius Ayanleke, said the programme was the eighth edition of the stakeholders’ engagement meeting, adding that the exercise was approved by the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, to enable the government visit all the zones and receive inputs from the people for consideration in the 2027 Budget.

The event was attended by traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, supervisory councillors, special advisers, community leaders, among others.

Ogunkeyede Family Sets for Scholarship Scheme in Honour of Late Parents

 

The Ogunkeyede family has concluded arrangements for another scholarship programme for indigent students  across the country, in honour of their late parents, Chief Joshua Adedeji Ogunkeyede, who died in 2022, and Chief Mrs. Rachel Jolade Ogunkeyede, who passed away in 2014.

In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the family said the scholarship is established to support the less-privileged students and assist them with their academic needs.

The statement hinted that the beneficiaries are drawn across the states in Nigeria, with pupils and students in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions eligible to benefit from the scheme.

The family disclosed that over 40 students had benefited from the  scholarship programme, which commenced in September last year.

The statement added that the scheme had also provided laptops to some brilliant students, including beneficiaries who may not necessarily come from indigent homes, while some 

less-privileged students receive monthly stipends to support their education.

The statement added that the programme targets the orphans and indigent students, saying that, It is like a support to augment their education needs and it is  non religious as both Christians and muslims benefitted from the scheme every year.

The family said the initiative was inspired by the values and teachings of their late parents, who, throughout their lifetime, encouraged their children to assist the less privileged within their means.

The statement pointed out that the scholarship scheme, “JolaDejiKeyede Sept. 30 Educational Support Scheme,” is a legacy programme established in honour of our late parents. We pray that, by the Grace of God, the initiative will continue to grow and positively impact the lives of beneficiaries for generations to come".

The family explained further that the scholarship programme was part of efforts to preserve and celebrate the legacy of their parents, whose marriage began on September 30, 1965.

The late Chief Joshua Adedeji Ogunkeyede and Chief Mrs. Rachel Jolade Ogunkeyede, hailed from Esa-Oke, Osun State and survived by five children. 

The family said the scholarship initiative was a way of ensuring that their parents' names continued to be remembered for their love, generosity and commitment to helping others.

Ogunkeyede family expressed optimism that the scheme would continue to expand and enable more indigent students to pursue their educational aspirations.

Ogunkeyede Family Sets for Scholarship Scheme in Honour of Late Parents

The Ogunkeyede family has concluded arrangements for another scholarship programme for indigent students  across the country, in honour of their late parents, Chief Joshua Adedeji Ogunkeyede, who died in 2022, and Chief Mrs. Rachel Jolade Ogunkeyede, who passed away in 2014.

In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the family said the scholarship is established to support the less-privileged students and assist them with their academic needs.

The statement hinted that the beneficiaries are drawn across the states in Nigeria, with pupils and students in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions eligible to benefit from the scheme.

The family disclosed that over 40 students had benefited from the  scholarship programme, which commenced in September last year.

The statement added that the scheme had also provided laptops to some brilliant students, including beneficiaries who may not necessarily come from indigent homes, while some 

less-privileged students receive monthly stipends to support their education.

The statement added that the programme targets the orphans and indigent students, saying that, It is like a support to augment their education needs and it is  non religious as both Christians and muslims benefitted from the scheme every year.

The family said the initiative was inspired by the values and teachings of their late parents, who, throughout their lifetime, encouraged their children to assist the less privileged within their means.

The statement pointed out that the scholarship scheme, “JolaDejiKeyede Sept. 30 Educational Support Scheme,” is a legacy programme established in honour of our late parents. We pray that, by the Grace of God, the initiative will continue to grow and positively impact the lives of beneficiaries for generations to come".

The family explained further that the scholarship programme was part of efforts to preserve and celebrate the legacy of their parents, whose marriage began on September 30, 1965.

The late Chief Joshua Adedeji Ogunkeyede and Chief Mrs. Rachel Jolade Ogunkeyede, hailed from Esa-Oke, Osun State and survived by five children. 

The family said the scholarship initiative was a way of ensuring that their parents' names continued to be remembered for their love, generosity and commitment to helping others.

Ogunkeyede family expressed optimism that the scheme would continue to expand and enable more indigent students to pursue their educational aspirations.

Ends.....

OYO GOVT MOVES TO HARNESS DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY FOR TOURISM GROWTH

The Oyo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to leveraging digital technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the tourism sector, attract investment and create greater opportunities for tourism stakeholders.

The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun, stated this during activities marking the 2026 World Tourism Day, themed “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”

Olatunbosun commended Governor Seyi Makinde for providing an enabling environment for the Ministry to operate, noting that digital technology and AI had transformed the global tourism industry by making it easier for tourists to access information, make bookings and undertake travel-related transactions.

He disclosed that the state government is planning to deploy a digital platform that would provide local and international visitors with information on hotels, tourist attractions, transportation and other tourism-related services from a 

single hub.

The Commissioner also disclosed plans to develop websites and online registration platforms for hospitality businesses to facilitate data collection and improve tourism service delivery.

He said: “Our plan is to have all these people use digital platforms for registration. We have started planning for it. The only challenge is that we are looking for resources to implement it. We would have done it long ago.”

Olatunbosun said the digital transformation of the sector would promote tourism, attract visitors and investors and provide a sustainable foundation for future administrations.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr Rotimi Babalola, appreciated Governor Makinde for providing the opportunity to commemorate the World Tourism Day and commended the Commissioner, management, staff and stakeholders for their contributions to the celebration.

Activities marking the celebration included a stage play by renowned playwright Femi Osofisan, an NTA awareness programme, the Explore Ibadan tour, visits to tourism sites including the New Culture Studio, Tunde Odunlade Art Gallery, the Adventure Playground Ecotherapy Centre and IITA Forest Centre, as well as a World Tourism Day walk from Adamasingba Stadium to the Secretariat.

As part of the celebration, Capricorn Concierge Tourism Services Limited presented an award to Olatunbosun for his support for domestic tourism development.

The Managing Director of the Business Domestic Promotion and Empowerment Programme, Mr Tayo Araoye, said the Commissioner had supported the programme, including the approval of scholarship opportunities for the first 1,000 Ibadan residents to participate in the Business of Domestic Tourism Promotion and Empowerment Programme.

Also speaking, the representative of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, His Royal Majesty Oba Kolawole Adegbola, pledged continued support for efforts to promote culture and tourism in the state and commended Fortis TV for unveiling the Oyo State Cultural Heritage and Excellence Initiative.

The Chief Executive Officer of Fortis TV, Mr. Bolawa Gbolahan, said the initiative was designed to recognise individuals and organisations contributing to the preservation and promotion of Oyo’s cultural heritage. He disclosed that the Oyo State Cultural Heritage and Excellence Awards would be held in December 2026.

Gbolahan noted that tourists increasingly discover destinations online through videos, photographs, digital maps, social media and AI, stressing that Oyo State could leverage these platforms to showcase its historical sites, festivals, cuisine, cultural experiences and other attractions to audiences across Nigeria and the world.

Why I pitched tent with Makinde, Adekanmbi, - Ex-Adelabu's aide, Boye

A former Personal Assistant to the erstwhile Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Ajiboye Akande Sangogade, popularly known as Boye Nation, has explained his decision to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), saying the move was borne out of his personal political conviction and belief in the direction of the party.

Sangogade, while speaking with journalists in Ibadan, said his decision to back and support Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the gubernatorial candidate of the party, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, followed his assessment of political developments in the state and the desire to provide a platform through which young people could participate actively in politics.

He spoke against the backdrop of the Boye Nation/JAF Movement Mega Concert held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, last Monday, where he formally led hundreds of youths, traders, artisans and other supporters from the APC into the APM ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Explaining his decision, Sangogade said he has reached a point where he could no longer remain on the sidelines of the political process, particularly given what he described as the implications of the 2027 elections for the future of young people in Oyo State.

He said the APM offered a platform through which the aspirations of young people could be pursued, urging those who had joined the movement to become actively involved in politics rather than remaining passive observers.

According to him, “I was a former Personal Assistant (PA) to Chief Adebayo Adelabu. I am not in any way in crisis with anyone. I’m mature enough to make a decision.”

Sangogade stressed that his political movement should not be interpreted as a fallout with his former principal, Adelabu, making it clear that his decision was independently taken.

“The decision I made has nothing to do with my former boss, Chief Adelabu; it was a decision I took independently,” he said.

He explained that his political realignment was therefore about his own assessment of the political environment and his decision to identify with the APM and its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said his decision to pitch tent with the APM was informed by his conviction that the party provided an avenue to pursue a new political direction and mobilise young people for greater participation in governance.

The former Adelabu's aide declared his full support for the APM governorship candidate in Oyo State, Hon. Adekanmbi, stating that his supporters in all the 33 local government areas of the state should rally behind the candidate as the party prepares for the 2027 governorship election.

He urged members of his political structure and other young people to actively participate in the political process, stressing that the outcome of the 2027 elections would have direct implications for their welfare, empowerment and development.

Sangogade said the political mobilisation was not simply about moving from one political party to another, but about creating an organised platform through which young people could have a stronger voice in determining the leadership of the state and country.

He said the massive turnout at the Boye Nation/JAF Movement concert was an indication of the level of mobilisation already taking place around the APM in Oyo State.

The event which held under the theme, “Young, United, Unstoppable (YUU),” attracted thousands of supporters and formally marked the reception of Sangogade and his supporters into the APM.

Independence Day: Oyo Govt. Reaffirms Commitment to Citizen's Welfare

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Musibau Babatunde has reiterated the commitment of the present administration in prioritising the welfare of citizens and implement the policies that will alleviate  poverty and improving the living conditions of residents.

He stated this during a special Independence Day road walk organised to commemorate Nigeria’s at  66th Independence Anniversary.

The road walk which commenced from the Government House and was terminated at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, was attended by top government officials, political appointees, civil servants, artisans and members of professional bodies.

Professor Babatunde, who represented the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, said the present administration remained committed to making life more bearable for the people of the state.

He acknowledged the economic challenges confronting Nigerians, but expressed optimism that the situation would soon improve, urging citizens to remain patient and hopeful.

He said  “We are quite optimistic that Nigeria will get better. Let us continue to do our best and always do something that will promote the image of the state and the nation within and outside the country.”

He  charged civil servants to remain dedicated to their responsibilities and discharge their duties to the best of their abilities, assuring that the Makinde administration would continue to recognise and reward diligence, hard work and perseverance.

Professor Musibau Babatunde admonished Oyo State indigenes to uphold the values of excellence and service, urging them to strive to set the pace for others to follow.

He added further that the state government would continue to focus on policies and programmes designed to improve the welfare of the people and address economic hardship in the state.

Present at the Independence Anniversary special road walk were the Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni, alongside other senior government officials and stakeholders.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

September 28, 2026.