KKU Orlu Football Tournament: Kelechi Kestermartins Ugoh Champions Youth Development Through Sport

In a stirring display of community solidarity and youth empowerment, Mr Kelechi Kestermartins Ugoh—a United States-based technology professional, human rights consultant, and philanthropist—together with the Stephen Ugoh Foundation (SUF), hosted the distinguished KKU Orlu Football Tournament from November

The tournament brought together promising young athletes from all eleven electoral wards of Orlu Local Government Area, fostering an atmosphere imbued with unity, anticipation, and shared aspiration.

Far surpassing the parameters of a mere sporting event, the tournament served as a platform for meaningful connection, the promotion of wholesome competition, and the reinforcement of communal spirit. Mr Ugoh and his team were notably present throughout the duration of the tournament, offering their support from the sidelines, engaging sincerely with players and supporters, and attentively listening to the stories, hopes, and challenges of the local populace.

> “Sport possesses a singular capacity to unite individuals, transcend boundaries, and cultivate a sense of belonging,” Mr Ugoh remarked.

“This tournament was about far more than football. It was an endeavour in connection, encouragement, and a collective reaffirmation of our solidarity with young people and the restoration of unity amongst our people.”

Mr Ugoh’s involvement extended beyond the provision of financial and logistical assistance. He demonstrated an unwavering commitment through his physical presence and heartfelt engagement, exemplifying a rare and genuine interest in the well-being and advancement of the young athletes and their communities. His attentive presence, sincere interactions, and uplifting spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

The KKU Orlu Football Tournament stands as a proud testament to Mr Ugoh’s profound dedication to grassroots development. Through the universal language of sport, he is helping to galvanise a generation, promote virtuous ideals, and reaffirm the strength of unity at the very foundation of society.

Commendation Galore, As Oyo HOS Turns Plus One

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni will turn plus one tomorrow Saturday, 31st May, 2025.

In a statement issued and signed by the Media Officer to the Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service, Mr. Abiodun Atilola.

The forum of Permanent Secretaries described the Head of Service as a woman of substance that believes so much in the welfare of the Civil/Public Servants of the pacesetter State. 

The statement said her achievements as 30th Head of Service of the State is worthy of emulation and her  outstanding performance in service reform and progress of the Civil/Public Service is commendable.

Mr. Rotimi Babalola is the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Orientation, Oyo State described the current Head of Service as a hard  working person.

He said  "I know the  current Head of Service, the number one Civil Servant in Oyo State for about three decades now, since I have known her, one thing that is consistent about her is her hard working status, whatever responsibility you give to her over the years within the Civil Service even outside the Civil Service, she would ensure it works and she always  makes things happen, she is a principled woman, I wish her a wonderful birthday, more grace, more wisdom".

Comrade Victor Muyiwa, the General Manager, Oyo State Govt. Printing Press  and the Chairman Forum of Administrative  Officers appreciated the leadership and administrative prowess of the current Head of Service .

He said she is just like a coach of Manchester United (Man -U), she believes so much in team work and no excuse for failure in the course of duty to serve Oyo State better.

Mr. Taiwo Adewale, the Permanent Secretary, Local Government Service Commission, Oyo State  described the Head of Service as a goal getter hinting  that, it was during her time that the State started witnessing harvest of recruitments in the Pacesetter State.

"I congratulate her on the, occasion of her birthday".

Mrs Hannat Obatade, is  the  Director of Administration and Supplies, Office of the Head of Service on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Service Matters, Mr. Paul Oyekunle said  the Head of Service is a very amazing person, determined to succeed in all ramifications.

“ I wish her a happy birthday in good health and knowledge".

Ends .......

COMMUNITY HEALTH PRACTITIONERS REGISTRATION BOARD OF NIGERIA INDUCTED 2024 GRADUATES OF JUNIOR COMMUNITY HEALTH EXTENSION WORKERS(JCHEWs) AND COMMUNITY HEALTH EXTENSION WORKERS(CHEWs) INTO COMMUNITY HEALTH PROFESSION AT OYSCOHEST

A total of 138 Junior Community Health Extension Workers, JCHEWs (38) and Community Health Extension Workers,CHEWs (98) who are 2024 Graduates of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology , (OYSCOHEST) have been  inducted by the Community Health Practitioners registration Board of Nigeria(CHPRBN).

The induction ceremony   was attended by who is who in the health sector, including the Oyo State Honorable 

Commissioner for Health , Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Board, Dr . Muhideen Babatunde Olatunji, the Chairperson, National association of Community Health Practitioner  of Nigeria Mrs Tolulope Olusola,ably represented by the association secretary,Mr Awojobi and a host of other eminient personalities  from far and near.

The Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology Pharmacist Oluyemisi Moradeke Oyewo was the chief host at the event held in the College Hall, Eleyele , I

In her welcome address, Pharm. Oluyemisi Oyewo congratulated  the 138 Inductees calling on them to uphold the ethics of their profession.

Mrs . Oyewo who expressed her joy over the support of the present administration for the college felicitated Governor Seyi Makinde on  the six years of his government .

In a speech delivered at the induction ceremony,Oyo State Commissioner for Health Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi expressed her delight over the induction ceremony, charging the inductees to be Frontline warriors in promoting health awareness, preventing diseases, and providing basic healthcare to those in need .

The Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria Dr. Bashir ldris Lafidin Jamaa who was represented by Dr Jacob Walson Ezekiel said the Board has successfully  re-engineered  it's regulatory framework through extensive policy  reform as the policy has realigned  with National policy on education and health  sector Renewal Investment Programme in collaboration with NBTE and NUC.

He hinted that ND and HND had been approved  for JCHEW and CHEW, respectively, as a professional course by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) .

The Head of Department , Community  Health Training in the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology Eleyele,Ibadan Mrs Awotunde Temitope Afolake H. thanked those in attendance  and praised the Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology Eleyele, Ibadan  Mrs. Oluyemisi Moradeke Oyewo for her proactive sterling leadership qualities, which contributed to the progress and development of the department. She   commends the Executive Secretary SPHCB  for employing the Community Health  Practitioners into   Primary Health Centers across the State  .

Mrs  Awotunde charged the newly inducted OYSCOHEST Graduates to abide by the oaths they have taken and conduct themselves within the framework of their professional ethics.

The induction /Oath taking was administered by  a legal practitioner in person of Barr. Olumide Ojedodun, while the induction lecture  "Effective Utilization of  National Standing Order: Role of Community Health Practitioners" was delivered by  Dr Olatunji Isaac Opeyemi

It would be recalled that the induction /Oath taking ceremony was the second of its type  hosted by Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology  led by the present Management headed by the Provost Pharmacist Oluyemisi Oyewo

MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE COUNCIL OF NIGERIA INDUCTS 33 OYSCOHEST MEDICAL LABORATORY TECHNICIAN GRADUATES

Oyo State College of Health Science and  Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan has again recorded another laudable remarkable academic landmark achievement with the induction and oath taking ceremony of 33 Medical Laboratory Technician Graduates of the College by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria.

The fourth Induction Ceremony of the College  was recently held in the College Hall with eminent personalities and top government officials in attendance.

Speaking at the Induction Ceremony, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health,  Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi  congratulated the inductees and commended the College management for the thorough nurturing of the inductees, which qualified them to be inducted into the profession. She said the Oyo State Government is committed to strengthening the health care system of the  State, noting that the Government recognizes  the important role Medical Laboratory Technicians play in the health sector and    would continue to support initiatives aimed at enhancing laboratory services and promote professional development in the overall interest of the citizens of the State.

She charged the inductees to see their profession as a service to humanity, calling on them to always provide  critical diagnostic information that will inform treatment decisions.

Welcoming the guests to the Induction Ceremony,  the Chief Host and the Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Mrs Oluyemisi Oyewo congratulated the new inductees charging them to uphold the highest standard of professionalism and be good Ambassadors of the College. 

She expressed her appreciation to the Executive Governor of Oyo State,   Engineer Seyi Makinde for his   support for the College, which has led to the  Institution's development, with remarkable improvement in infrastructural development, recruitment of additional staff, provision of practical equipment and the accreditation and re-accreditation of its courses.

Delivering the address of the Acting Registrar and the Chief Executive Officer of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, MLS  Jude Oparanozie congratulated the inductees, commending the College management for  grooming the inductees adequately to be qualified as Medical Laboratory Technicians, charging them to be prepared for the challenges ahead and make meaningful impact in the health sector.

Also speaking at the induction ceremony, the Head of Department, Medical Laboratory Technology,  MLS Suliat Adigun Mustapha commended the Management of the College led by Mrs Oluyemisi Oyewo for her constant support for the department as she urged the inductees to always exhibit high moral discipline and observe professional ethics. 

A minute silence was observed in honour of the late Registrar and CEO of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Late Professor Tosan Erhabor who recently passed on.

The inductees were later presented with their professional certificates of registration by the representative of the Acting Registrar of the Council.

Also present at the ceremony were the Special Guest of Honour, Dr (MLS) Dawood Akanni Olalere, the Oyo State House of Assembly member representing the Ibadan North West constituency, the Chairman of the Association of Laboratory Scientists, Oyo State branch, other distinguished Laboratory Scientists as well as the  Principal Officers and other staff of the College.

138 JCHEW, CHEW OYSCOHEST 2024 GRADUATES INDUCTED BY COMMUNITY HEALTH PRACTITIONERS Registration BOARD OF NIGERIA

A total of 138 Junior Community Health Extension Workers  , JCJEW and Senior Community Health Extension Workers , CHEW who are 2024 Graduates of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology , OYSCOHEST have been  inducted by the Community Health Practitioners registration Board of Nigeria, CHPRBN.

The induction ceremony  was attended by who is who in the Health Profession including the Oyo State Commissional for Health , Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, the Executive Secretary, Primary Health Care Board, Dr . Muhideen  Olatunji, the Chairperson, National association of Community Health Practitioner  of Nigeria Mrs Tolulope Olusola , and a host of other eminent

personalities  from far and near.

The Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology Pharmacist Oluyemisi Oyewo was the Chief Host at the event held in the College Hall, Eleyele , Ibadan .

In a speech delivered at the induction ceremony , Oyo State Commissioner for Health Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi expressed her delight over the induction ceremony charging the inductees to be Frontline warriors in promoting health awareness, preventing diseases and providing basic healthcare to those in need .

In her welcome address , the Chief host, the College Provost , Pharmacist Oluyemisi Oyewo congratulated  the 138 Inductees calling on them to uphold the ethics of their profession .

Mrs . Oyewo who expressed her joy  over the support of the present administration for the College felicitates Governor Seyi Makinde on  the six years of his government .

The Registrar and Chief Executive officer of Community Health Practitioners Registration Board of Nigeria Dr. Bashir ldris Lafidin. Jamaa who was represented said the Board has successfully  re-engineered its regulatory framework through extensive policy  reform as the policy has realigned  with National policy on education and health  sector Renewal Investment Programme in collaboration with NBTE and NUC.

He hinted that HND had been approved  for CHEW as a professional Course by National Board for Technical Education NBTE.

The Head of Department , Community  Health Training in the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology Eleyele Ibadan Mrs Awotunde Temitope Afolake thanked those in attendance  and praised the Provost of Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology , Eleyele Ibadan  Mrs. Oluyemisi Moradeke Oyewo for her proactive sterling leadership qualities which contributed to the Progress and development of the Department  commending the Primary Health Care Board for employing the Community Health  Extension Worker into   Primary Health Centres across the State .

Mrs . Awotunde charged the newly inducted 2024 OYSCOHEST Graduates to abide by the oaths they have taken and conduct themselves within the framework of their professional ethics .

The induction /Oath taking ceremony  featured a lectured  "Effective Utilization of  National Standing Order: Role of Community Health Practitioners " delivered by  Dr Olatunji Isaac Opeyemi .

It would be recalled that the Induction /Oath taking ceremony was the second of it's type  hosted by Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology  led by the present Management headed by the Provost Pharmacist Oluyemisi Oyewo

We Will Continue to Collaborate with Federal Agencies - Oyo Govt.

 

The Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo FAS FTWAS has said that the present administration in the State would continue to collaborate with the Federal Agencies in the State for accelerated development. 

She stated this during a courtesy visit paid by the management staff of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Oyo State Command held at the SSG's Office, Secretariat, Ibadan. 

She said Governor Seyi Makinde has a soft spot for security agencies in the State, hinting that, the Governor believes that the Government cannot achieve anything in the atmosphere of chaos. 

Professor Olanike Adeyemo added that the Government that has the intention to perform must take the issue of security and the security operatives very seriously. 

She stated further that the present administration under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde had incorporated Nigerian Correctional Service, Oyo State Command into its Health insurance Scheme where the inmates would register in a hospital and whenever they are sick, the Hospital will take care of their health under the Oyo State Health Insurance Scheme. 

The Secretary to the State Government pointed out that when the inmates in good health, they will be useful after they might have been corrected at the NCS.

In his remarks, the Nigerian Correctional Service, Oyo State Command, Mr. Opadeji Ayoola commended Governor Seyi Makinde led administration in the State for incorporating inmates to the State Health insurance Scheme.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG HOS 

May 29, 2025.

OYSCOHEST PROVOST, OLUYEMISI OYEWO FELICITATES GOVERNOR SEYI MAKINDE ON HIS 6TH ANNIVERSARY IN OFFICE.

The Provost of the Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Eleyele Ibadan, Mrs Oluyemisi Moradeke Oyewo has congratulated his Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde on the occasion of his sixth anniversary in office as the Executive Governor of Oyo State

The Provost stated that the six years have been characterized by steadfast leadership, dedicated service and unwavering commitment to the state's progress, adding that his leadership has been a beacon of hope and progress for the state, and that his leadership has transformed the state, while his initiatives have brought about significant development. 

She further stated that his commitment to education, health and infrastructural development has been glaring in his support and commitment to the advancement of the College. She appreciated His Excellency for his unwavering financial and logistic support as well as his favourable responses to the needs of this College, which have contributed to the enviable and unrivalled feats attained by the 92 year old Health Institution, including the accreditation and re-accreditation of all the courses of the College by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the various Professional Regulatory Bodies; and the achievement of excellent success in the various professional licensing examinations.

She prayed for many more years of growth, progress, and prosperity for Oyo State and more of God’s blessings, continued success, good health, strength, wisdom and guidance for His Excellency as he continues to lead the state to greater heights.

The congratulatory message was contained in a statement released in Ibadan on behalf of the College Provost by the Institution's Chief Public Relations Officer, Mr Sola Samuel Ojewole.

 

VIDEO - Oyo CPS on Monday: Makinde Deliberately Developing Oyo State, says Jericho Mall chairman, Makanjuola

An estate developer who is also the chairman of Jericho Mall, Ibadan, Dr Makanjuola Ojewumi, has described Governor ‘Seyi Makinde as an intentional leader, who is deliberately developing Oyo State.

Dr Makanjuola, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), disclosed this in an interview with The People’s Verdict.

According to him, “He (Makinde) is a governor that has intentionally freed the process of getting things done and getting development to take place. So many estates have popped up within the city. He must be a governor that is positively looking at what can be done to raise the standards and the building set up in the city for him to have consistently done that over time.

“Of course, there have been one or two controversies, for instance, the Baywood GRA beside Agodi Gardens. Some people felt why should a conservation area be approved as a GRA and all that. But the argument is neither here nor there. Let’s be candid, that area is prime; if it is not done today, it could be done another four, five years and it might not be done structured or organized. What I have seen there is an estate that is being professionally put together. There is a lot of land compacting; they have left a good part of the conservation area. So, it is a balance of flora and fauna with the built environment. 

“So, it is showing a consistent pattern of someone who really wants Ibadan to grow into the city that is evolving right now, a nicely evolving city that shows a lot of development.”

Commenting on Makinde’s disposition of supporting the development of new estates in the state, he said, “It is always a welcome thing for us to see a governor that is positively looking towards developing a city or town with approvals for various developments. It is impactful. 

“Nigeria has a huge housing gap; the number of houses we have is not enough to house the populace, as it were. You know we have changing demographics. Young people are growing up; someone who was 20 a few years ago is now 26 or 28 and needs accommodation. Those who were 28 before are now 35. The demographics keep changing, if the government is not conscious of it, they will just do nothing. 

“It is old fashioned for government to say they want to build houses for people, what is called social housing; government doesn’t have enough resources to do that. What the government should do is what Oyo State is doing; facilitate places where land is available and developers can come in with necessary capital and develop housing for the citizens and the city.” 

Talking about the necessity for new estates in the state, Makanjuola said, “To the degree that they increase the number of houses available for the people to be housed in, it is good, it is important.

 These days, the trend is for us to have gated developments, where people have a sense of security, a sense of community. So, it is necessary for us to have new estates and we don’t have enough yet. We can still have more.”

On the nexus between estate development and economic development, the estate developer said, 

“There is no way estate development can take place that it will not trickle into economic development. Every time you are building a house, you are engaging workmen. You will be surprised that some workmen may come from as far as Cotonou and Lagos to Ibadan. They earn money and spend money within the city. 

They must be accommodated in the time that they are here, they must eat. Some people set up kiosks to serve the workers. The timber market at Bodija will know that development is taking place when a lot of demand is coming in for timber. There is a postulation that if you allow a lot of estate developments, you can actually cause an economy to boom.”

Maknajuola also submitted that there is a link between estate development and wealth creation as well as job creation.

He said, “For the developer, wealth is being created, for the buyers of the properties too, wealth is being created. There is a small GRA behind BCOS at Bashorun, the price at which property started there is not the price today, I am sure it has virtually doubled.

 That is wealth creation. But much beyond that, what interests me here is job creation. Jobs are created when estates are built, not just during construction, even post construction. You won’t believe the number of people that work in an estate; stewards, helps, security men, etc. So many jobs are created post construction.”

Watch the video.

 

ABIYE DAY 2025 HOLDS IN IBADAN IN GRAND STYLE

The 2025 Abiye Day celebrations has recorded huge success with Infant mothers who delivered in the Faith home and eminent personalities

Abiye Faith Home is a Maternity Centre which is an arm of Christ Apostolic Church CAC Oke Iye Ibukun District Headquarters Alakia Isebo in Ibadan.

Delivering a Sermon at the Thanks giving Service to round up the celebrations , the guest Minister, a popular Christian leader, Prophet Michael Fakinle stressed the necessity of Thanksgiving describing the Abiye Day celebration as one having the backing of God.

The cleric praised God for safe deliveries in the  Maternity Centre since it's establishment for which God should be appreciated.

Prophet Fakinle said if God is always appreciated , wonders would happen and every problem would be a thing of the past.

He commended the Matron of CAC Oke Iye Ibukun Faith Home Lady Evangelist Dorcas Funlilayo Afelumo  for his steadfastness in the Lord for which the deliveries in the Maternity Centre have been made easy .

The Clergy equally praised the  husband of the Matron  Pastor Emmanuel Layi Afelumo for supporting   the operations on the faith home .

Speaking at the event , the District Supretendent of CAC Oke Iye Ibukun Alakia Isebo  Ibadan Pastor  Emmanuel Layi Afelumo  thanked God for sustaining the faith home  and for miracles  over safe and hitch free deliveries by pregnant women.

Pastor Afelumo  commended members of the Church  for their steadfastness  thanking  God  for His faithfulness over the Faith Home.

In her brief remark, the Matron of  Abiye Faith Home Lady Evangelist Dorcas Funmilayo Afelumo praised for performing miracles  over pregnant mothers deliveries in the  Faith Home.

Prophetess Funmilayo Afelumo who felt delighted  over what God has been doing  for successful deliveries  by pregnant  mothers  appreciated God for His faithfulness.

Some of the Nursing Mothers in their testimonies thanked God  for becoming mother's in the face of hopelessness .

How NMDPRA Boss Squandered Tax Payers' billions on Own Children in World’s Most Expensive Schools Abroad

 

Facts have emerged about how the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, Engineer Farouk Ahmed   squandered public funds procuring foreign education for his children in elite international schools that are among the world’s most expensive. 

Engineer Ahmed is embroiled in controversy over the mismanagement of funds and embezzlement, which some civil society groups said has primed him plotting to escape the United Arab Emirates. 

Reliable sources named the children, Faisal Ahmed, Farhana Farouk, Ashraf Ahmed and Farouk Ahmed Farouk, are all schooling abroad, a luxury that is not available to children in the host communities of the industry that Ahmed oversees. 

This allowed Ahmed to confer undue advantage on his children, whom he also lined up for juicy employment in choice organizations. Faisal Ahmed, now based in Nigeria and working in sales at Oando, graduated from the elite European University in Montreux, Switzerland. 

A source disclosed that the European University is “highly competitive with an annual acceptance rate of less than five percent of those who applied, which leaves one wondering what evil deals Ahmed struck with the West to fix his ward there.” 

In keeping with his high appetite for Swiss institutions for his children, Ahmed used public funds to see Farouk Ahmed Farouk (Jr.) through Aiglon College Boarding School in Switzerland, a school reputed “to be one of the most successful international boarding schools in the world for 12 to 18-years-olds". Farouk’s tuition would have cost not less than N300 million annually for the duration of his stay there. 

Not to be outdone, Ashraf Ahmed, had his stint at the Institut Le Rosey, described as “a prestigious Swiss boarding school known for its international community, rigorous academics, and emphasis on holistic development.” Located in Rolle, Switzerland, Le Rosey also has a winter campus in Gstaad. Buoyed by diverted public funds, Ashraf has an MBA in view at Harvard at some point this year. 

The source said the  Institut Le Rosey “is known for its high annual fees. The cost can be up to N230 million equivalent  annually for tuition, room, and board, with Engineer Ahmed likely paying more for other services.”  

Farhana lives a royal life, attending La Garenne International School, which describes itself as “nestled in the Swiss Alps, offering exceptional education and boarding for students aged 4 to 18.” Farhana’s attendance at La Garenne was further gilded by taking courses at one of the campuses of NIIT Pune, India.

Oyo Govt, Trains Civil Servants on Digital Skills

 

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has said that the present administration in the State would continue to sustain the tempo towards realization of strategic vision of having a dynamic and efficient public service in which officers can compete favourably with their compares across the globe. 

She stated this at the closing ceremony of a 3-day training programme for some selected officers in the Officer cadres on grade levels 08 to 12  across Ministries, Departments and Agencies held at an event center Ikolaba GRA, Ibadan. 

She said the 3 - day capacity development in public service is one of the several capacity training programmes  organized for both senior management staff across the State Civil Service by the office of the Head of Service. 

She stated further that the present administration in the State under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde would continue to sustain the tempo towards realization of the strategic vision of a dynamic and efficient public service. 

She said "the need for digital transformation of the service especially in the areas of acquisition of relevant digital skills by officers and automation of Civil Service work, governance across the globe is tending towards digitalization and e -governance for economic development. 

She commended Governor Seyi Makinde for approving the conduct of the digital training programme for Civil/Public Servants in the State and also providing the necessary support for the execution of the training, hinting that, the strategic agenda of omititun 2.0 would be promptly achieved for the benefit of the masses.

The Head of Service then appreciated the management of Superurban Limited for partnering with the State Government to organize the training programme to impact digital skills that would help to embrace paradigm shift from the conventional analogue mode of delivery to digitalization.

She enjoined the participants to ensure that the digital skills they have acquired during the training programme reflect in their performance at their various offices.

In his remarks, the Managing Director, Superurban Limited, Mr. Adesola Kolawole commended the State Government for organizing the digital development training programme for its workforce for more efficient service delivery 

He pointed out that the world is moving towards ICT in governance including digital transformation in Civil/Public Service.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

21. May, 2025.

Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry Arrests and Hands Over 97 Bags of Foreign Parboiled Rice to the Nigeria Customs Service and 191 Wraps of Products Suspected to be Cannabis Sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency

 

In furtherance of ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime security and suppress smuggling activities within the Badagry–Seme–Porto Novo waterways and adjoining land corridors, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has maintained a high tempo of operations. These sustained maritime security activities have resulted in the interception of significant quantities of contraband, including narcotics and foreign parboiled rice, within its designated Area of Operations (AOO).

Specifically, in a series of distinct operations conducted between 26 April and 14 May 2025, the Base’s Quick Response Team (QRT) successfully effected the following seizures:

a. A total of ninety-seven (97) bags, each weighing 50 kilograms, of foreign parboiled rice, intercepted within the Base’s AOO on Saturday, 26 April 2025.

b. One hundred and ninety-one (191) wraps of products suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, with an estimated weight of 114.6 kilograms, seized during three separate operations conducted around the Packo and Bedrome–Ashipa areas between 30 April and 14 May 2025.

c. Approximately three hundred and seven (307) kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), amounting to roughly 7,675 litres, seized in four distinct operations at Simtop Jetty, Tosuvi, Ashikpa, and Panshi between 23 April and 3 May 2025.

In accordance with extant legal frameworks and the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures, the aforementioned ninety-seven (97) bags of foreign parboiled rice were formally handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command. Likewise, the one hundred and ninety-one (191) wraps of suspected Cannabis Sativa were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Special Area Command, on Tuesday, 20 May 2025, for further investigation and requisite legal action. Furthermore, the impounded PMS was duly destroyed to prevent its illicit distribution within the AOO.

These achievements are a testament to FOB Badagry’s unflinching commitment to the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, as articulated in the CNS Strategic Directive 06–2023. This directive underscores the imperative of safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment in the interest of national security and economic advancement.

FOB Badagry remains resolute in its mission to eradicate smuggling, narcotics trafficking, and other maritime-related crimes. The Base continues to foster robust inter-agency collaboration and nurture trust with host communities, with a view to ensuring sustainable maritime security throughout the region.

A Goal for the Future”: Hon. Kafilat Ogbara Scores Big with Youths as She Champions Football for Development in Kosofe

 

In a heartwarming and inspiring display of leadership and community engagement, Hon. Kafilat Ogbara, Member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, partnered with the Kosofe Youth Forum and Universal Global Sports Agency Ltd to host a thrilling grassroots football tournament aimed at empowering and uplifting the youth of the constituency.

The grand finale, held on Sunday, 18th May 2025, at Ayedere Nursery & Primary School, saw two energetic teams — Omojuwa Estate/Church Avenue and Makinde Street — battle for glory on the pitch. But beyond the scores and the goals, the real victory was for the youth of Kosofe.

Following the pulsating final match, Hon. Ogbara addressed the enthusiastic crowd, praising the spirit of sportsmanship displayed by all participating teams and declaring that “every team is a winner.” In a symbolic and generous gesture, she awarded cash prizes to all the teams, underlining her commitment to equity and inclusion.

“This tournament is not just about football,” Hon. Ogbara said. “It is about our future. It is about taking our youth off the streets, away from thuggery and drug abuse, and giving them something greater to aspire to. It is about discipline, passion, teamwork, and hope.”

With emotion in her voice and sincerity in her words, the Honourable Representative promised that the tournament would not be a one-off event, but the beginning of a continuous initiative to engage the youth meaningfully.

“This is just the beginning,” she assured. “As long as I serve the great people of Kosofe, this initiative will continue and grow. Together, we will build dreams, we will inspire talent, and we will secure the future of our constituency.”

The event, jointly organized by the Kosofe Youth Forum and Universal Global Sports Agency Ltd, received widespread praise from the community. Mr. Michael Omojuwa, FIFA agent and representative of Universal Global Sports, lauded Hon. Ogbara for her unwavering commitment to youth development, while Hon. Ayo Omojuwa, Manager and key stakeholder in the event, described the initiative as “a legacy in motion.”

“Youths across Kosofe are grateful for this platform,” said a team captain during the appreciation remarks. “Hon. Ogbara has not only invested in our talents, but she’s also shown that we matter — that we can dream and achieve.”

The Kosofe Youth Forum expressed deep appreciation for her vision and impact, stating that Hon. Ogbara’s intervention has set a new standard for political leadership and youth engagement in the area.

As the sun set over the Ayedere field and cheers echoed through the air, one thing was clear — Hon. Kafilat Ogbara is not just representing Kosofe in Abuja; she is transforming lives, one goal at a time.

#KosofeYouthRising #OgbaraForDevelopment #FootballForChange #YouthEmpowerment #KafilatOgbara #GrassrootsLeadership #HopeInKosofe #UnityThroughSports

VIDEO - Oyo CPS on Monday: Makinde has put us in dire straits, says Olabiyi-Agoro, TUC chairman

Chairman of Oyo State council of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Bosun Olabiyi-Agoro, says the governor of Oyo State, ‘Seyi Makinde, has put the labour leaders in the state in a difficult situation.

Olabiyi-Agoro, who disclosed this in an interview with The People’s Verdict, said Makinde’s performance had made it difficult for labour leaders to be critical of his administration.

The TUC chairman said, “It has been very difficult for us as labour leaders to speak about this government, as led by Engr ‘Seyi Makinde, without sounding as if we are his hype men. He has been wonderful, he has been magnanimous. 

He has been good. This is not far-fetched going by the series of awards that he has been winning. Even before the awards, the NBS (National Bureau of Statistics) came out in September 2024 and stated categorically that Oyo State Government is the number one labour-friendly state in Southern Nigeria and number two in the entire nation. That tells us what he has done and how much he has given into the welfare of workers in the state.”

Talking about the recruitment of different categories of workers by the state government, Olabiyi-Agoro said, “In his first term he recruited 5,000 teachers. Just at the beginning of his second term, SUBEB took in 7,000 teachers; TESCOM took in 7,500; 1,500 medical and health workers, comprising of doctors, nurses and others, were employed. Even in the schools, 3,000 non-teaching staff were recruited. Some ad-hoc staff in the local government, who were just casual workers, he regularised their employment and brought them into the mainstream of local government employment. 

“Some staff that were thrown away before, he looked into their issue case by case and those that had good cases, he absorbed them back into the mainstream employment even with the promotion that they had missed while the issues were ongoing. There were some OYSADEP workers that were also regularised back into the mainstream of Oyo State employment. About 791 people were taken into the civil service; I am not talking about SUBEB or TESCOM now but the civil service. I can go on and on. 

“That is why I said he has put us in a difficult position, though a positive one, because it is what we see that we are going to talk about. When there are issues, we shout but when there are no issues and we see things that are positive like this, in the same vein, we must say it so that people will know and others will be encouraged.”

The labour leader also lauded the governor for taking the payment of workers’ wages seriously.

He said, “I make bold to say that Governor Seyi Makinde has laid a foundation of which anyone that comes after him cannot afford to go lower, it will become an issue because Oyo State workers are already used to what he has given us already. Since he came into the office six years ago, he has made sure that he pays salary on or before the 25th of every month.

 That was not the narrative before. As far as we are concerned in Oyo State, it is something extraordinary to us. Yes, we have people who say that paying salaries is his basic duty to do.

 My question to those people is that when we had governors who were not doing that, what were we able to do to them? In many states, even in Oyo State, we had governors who were not paying regularly, governors who turned workers’ salaries into ajo (contribution) and were paying in bits, we were not able to do anything to them. So, we are very grateful for what he has done. He has promised us that until he leaves the office, Oyo State workers will get their salaries on or before the 25th of every month.

 He added 13th month salary to it and he has been paying. When we had issues due to the removal of fuel subsidies and everybody was introducing wage awards, I can tell you that Oyo State was among the very few states that were religious with the wage award.”

The labour leader, however, noted that the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare had not impaired the development of the state as the governor has also invested immensely in infrastructure development.

Watch the video.

  

Gov Dauda Lawal’s Weak Leadership Fueling Insecurity in Zamfara — Northern Advocacy Group

 

A northern civic advocacy organisation, Coalition for Safer North-West Communities (CSNC), has blamed the persistent insecurity in Zamfara State on what it described as the “lack of courage and gross administrative ineptitude” of Governor Dauda Lawal.

A strongly worded statement signed by its President, Alhaji Murtala Shehu Gusau, on Wednesday, said the worsening wave of kidnappings, killings, and banditry in the state reflect a failure of leadership at the highest level of the state government.

The group said despite the deployment of military personnel and federal government interventions, Zamfara remains one of the most dangerous states to live in, owing largely to the governor’s inability to take decisive action and coordinate effective security responses.

“We are alarmed at the continued deterioration of security in Zamfara State, and after a critical assessment, we have no choice but to hold the state government accountable. Governor Dauda Lawal has shown a worrying lack of courage in the face of terror and has consistently failed to provide strategic leadership that inspires confidence among residents or security agencies,” the group declared. 

CSNC said Zamfara’s rural communities have become killing fields, while residents in the capital live in daily fear of abductions, despite the governor’s repeated assurances and media statements.

“It is not enough to issue statements from Gusau. What the people need is action. From Dansadau to Maru, Anka to Tsafe, farmers can no longer access their farmlands, women are being kidnapped in broad daylight, and children are growing up under the sound of gunfire,” Alhaji Gusau said.

According to the group, the governor’s approach to security management has been marked by inconsistency, lack of collaboration with federal authorities, and an inability to rally local leaders and traditional institutions towards community-based intelligence gathering.

“Zamfara is bleeding, and the government seems more interested in political propaganda than real solutions. How many more people need to die before we begin to see seriousness? The governor needs to admit that his strategy, if any, has failed and make way for fresh thinking,” the statement added.

CSNC also accused the Lawal administration of sidelining critical stakeholders in the state’s security architecture, including traditional rulers, local vigilantes, and federal agencies, in a bid to centralise control without the capacity to manage such complexity.

“We must stop pretending that things are normal. The situation in Zamfara is a full-blown emergency, and if Governor Dauda Lawal cannot show the willpower to govern in a crisis, then he must accept that leadership is not for him. Zamfara deserves more than photo-ops and empty meetings,” the group insisted.

Alhaji Gusau said the group’s position is based on consistent engagement with affected communities, civil society organisations, and humanitarian workers in the North-West, many of whom have raised alarm over the governor’s silence or delayed responses to critical incidents.

The group also questioned how billions allocated to security in Zamfara’s state budget have been spent, demanding transparency and accountability from the administration.

“We challenge the Zamfara State Government to publish the breakdown of its security spending for 2023 and the first quarter of 2024. We deserve to know what has been done with public funds meant to protect lives,” Alhaji Gusau said.

The group called on the National Assembly, particularly lawmakers from Zamfara, to conduct an independent assessment of the security situation in the state and recommend a pathway to restoring peace.

“This is not the time for partisan silence. Zamfara’s future is at stake. We urge Senator Ikra Aliyu Bilbis and other representatives to raise their voices and ensure that the suffering of our people is not ignored at the national level,” the statement added.

CSNC said it would continue to mount pressure on elected officials at both the state and federal levels until Zamfara experiences a turnaround in security and governance.

“We want peace. But peace will not come through platitudes. It requires bold leadership, integrity, and vision — all of which are sorely lacking in the current state government. Governor Dauda Lawal must wake up to his responsibilities or respectfully step aside for someone who can,” the statement concluded.

Varsity Don, Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede Ties Nuptial Knot

 

By Abiodun Atilola, Lagos 

A lecturer from the Federal University of  Petroleum Resources Efurun, Warri, Delta State, Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede on Saturday tied the nuptial knot with his heart throb, Sarah Ogunkeyede, at her family home in the Somolu area of Lagos State

The event, which had in attendance dignitaries from all walks of life, including some Oyo State Permanent Secretaries,  General  Managers, Directors  and family members featured   special blessings for the couple, musical entertainment, and lots more.

The Bridegroom Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede is the  Acting Director of the Centre for Waste Management and Sustainable Resources (CWMSR), Federal University of Petroleum Resources,  Efunrun, (FUPRE), Delta State. 

The bride, Mrs, Sarah Ogunkeyede, hailed from (itsekiri), Delta State, she is also a staff member of the Delta State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. 

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni advised the couple to be patient and tolerant of each other.

She added that understanding is the key to successful marriage,  hinting that it will prevent  the need to bring in a third party into their marriage.

She said there is nothing wrong in inter tribal marriage. It is the personalities that are involved that matter. "It is  not about the tribe. She concluded that the lady is a well trained girl from a disciplined home. We love her."

Dr. Akinyemi Ogunkeyede is the younger brother to the number one Civil Servant in the Pacesetter State, the Oyo State Head of Service,  Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni.  

The wedding reception was held at a popular event centre in Lagos.

Oyo Lawmaker, Hon. Olorunpoto Canvasses for Alaafin as sole Permanent Chairman of Obas’ Council, Seeks Additional Slot for Oyo Zone

During the second reading of the Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendment) Bill, 2025, at the plenary session of the Oyo State House of Assembly on Thursday, Hon. Olorunpoto  Rahaman, representing Oyo East/Oyo West State Constituency, made a compelling case for the formal recognition of the Alaafin of Oyo as the Permanent Chairman and Presiding Officer of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

In his contribution to the debate, Hon. Rahaman emphasized the need for clarity in the bill, particularly expressing concerns over the use of the term “concurrent chairmen” to describe the proposed leadership structure, warned that such language is vague, potentially misleading, and could generate avoidable controversies among traditional rulers.

“I raised a red flag over the use of the word ‘concurrent’ in the proposed amendment. That term lacks clarity and opens the door to conflicting interpretations. If the true intent of the bill is to restore the traditional status of the Alaafin, then the law must state clearly and unequivocally that the Alaafin is the Permanent Chairman and the Presiding Officer of the Council,” Rahaman said.

The lawmaker further stressed that the Alaafin’s primacy in Yoruba history and traditional governance should be properly reflected in the law, not diminished by ambiguous language or equal chairmanship status.

In addition, the lawmaker advocated for an extra slot to be allotted to the Oyo zone in the composition of the Council, argued that Oyo, as the historical seat of Yoruba civilization and a zone with multiple revered traditional institutions, deserves enhanced representation in the restructured Council framework.

“I am calling for an additional slot to be allotted to our zone to ensure fairness, recognition, and proper representation,” he added.

Hon. Rahaman reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the amendment, when passed, reflects cultural integrity, historical justice, and balanced representation for all regions in the state.

Oyo Assembly Chief Whip, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola Advocates Permanent Presidential Seat for Alaafin in the New Oba and Chiefs law of Oyo State

The lawmaker representing Atiba State Contituency, who also serves as the Chief Whip in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola has solicited for the elevation of Alaafin of Oyo in the ongoing  proposed Council of Obas and Chiefs ( Further Amendments) Bill ,2025 currently before the 10th Assembly in Oyo State.

Speaking on Thursday during the plenary presided over by the Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin,  Hon. Oyekola declared that it's high time to Institutionalise the Alaafin of Oyo as the permanent authority and presiding President of the Council of Obas and Chiefs and equally accommodate Olubadan of  Ibadanland and  Soun of Ogbomoso as the rotational Chairmen which  should be contained in Schedule II and Schedule IA of the proposed Amendment law.

Hon. Oyekola noted that such  elevation will further place the Obas and Chiefs in the State in the appropriate hierarchy as being practised in the neighbouring and other Yoruba states.

"Mr. Speaker and my colleagues,  first and foremost, we need to put the  public in the  right perspective. Up till  today, what is in operation by law as regards the status of chairmanship of the council of Obas in the State is rotational. It's after this amendment that the new system will be effective." The Lawmaker reiterated 

"I just want to add a leg that as it's happening in other states of this Yorubaland, Osun and Lagos States for example,  the Ooni of Ife has been elevated to the Post of president,  others can be contesting and rotating the Chairmanship ditto for  Lagos State"

"I'm trying to advocate that we should just increase the seat of Alaafin of Oyo with a ladder , that Alaafin be recognised as the permanent president of Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs."

Seconding the motion on a bill for a law to further amend the Council of Obas and Chiefs law Cap.37 of  Oyo State,  Hon. Oyekola stated that the proposal of the amendment aims to restore historical precedence and ensure a clear leadership structure within the Council.

He stated further that the expansion of the Council will also pave ways for stability in the Oyo State traditional system,  prevent administrative uncertainties, and foster greater respect for the institution in the State.

It would be recalled that a delegation led by the Chairman of the Council of Elders in Oyo Town, Chief Olatoye, paid a solidarity visit to the Speaker of the  House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin early hours of the day over the proposed amendments to the Council of Obas and Chiefs law.

The delegation commended the Oyo State House of Assembly for the ongoing efforts to amend the Council of Obas and Chiefs law which has been moribund for about fourteen years.

The bill has however passed through the second reading stage and forwarded to the Standing House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Matters and State Honours for further scrutiny and amendments.

2027: Bawa Working With Third Force to Target Key Tinubu Ministers — CFTI

 

The Citizens Forum for Transparency and Integrity (CFTI) has raised the alarm over what it described as “a coordinated and sinister plot” by former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Abdulrasheed Bawa, to work with opposition leaders and third force actors to destabilise the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement released in Lagos  on Monday, the group alleged that Bawa recently met with key opposition figures in London, where discussions were held on using his former contacts within the EFCC to target four serving ministers in Tinubu’s cabinet. 

According to the group, the plan is part of a larger campaign to discredit the government and erode public trust ahead of the next electoral cycle.

“We have it on good authority that Bawa, who is still nursing bitterness over his removal from office, has now found a new political mission —  to work with the opposition to paint this administration as corrupt and compromised,” the statement read.

The group said it is deeply concerned that the opposition is planning to use state institutions to launch politically motivated probes against top officials of the federal government.

“From the intel available to us, we can confirm that four ministers have been deliberately selected for this smear campaign,” said Alhaji Aminu Mustapha Gidado, President of CFTI. 

“Three of them are former governors — David Umahi, Atiku Bagudu, and Bello Matawalle — while the fourth, Festus Keyamo, is a former minister under the Buhari administration who now holds a strategic portfolio in Tinubu’s cabinet as Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.”

Gidado claimed that in exchange for his role in this operation, Bawa has been promised a return to public office as National Adviser on Anti-Corruption, a newly proposed position that would oversee the EFCC, ICPC, and the Code of Conduct Bureau if the opposition succeeds in 2027.

“We find it extremely dangerous that a man who once occupied such a sensitive position is now being positioned as a political tool in the hands of those desperate to hijack power,” Gidado said.

The forum called on security agencies, particularly the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), to investigate the meeting held in London and monitor all back-channel activities aimed at weaponising anti-corruption institutions for political vendetta.

“This is not just about politics. It is about protecting our democratic institutions from manipulation and abuse. Bawa may be out of office, but his network remains embedded within the system. We cannot allow such an infrastructure to be turned against loyal public servants whose only offence is their allegiance to the current government,” the statement noted.

CFTI also warned that the growing desperation in opposition ranks is a signal that the 2027 elections may be marred by coordinated blackmail, character assassination, and institutional sabotage if urgent steps are not taken to counter these schemes.

“We are watching a dangerous script unfold. The opposition is not preparing for elections; they are preparing for subversion. They know they can’t win at the ballot, so they’re trying to destroy from within,” Gidado stated.

He further noted that President Tinubu’s cabinet has, despite challenges, made significant progress in stabilising key sectors and attracting foreign investments — achievements he said some politicians are determined to frustrate for selfish reasons.

“Is it not curious that the same ministers driving reforms in infrastructure, industrial policy, defence, and aviation are the ones being targeted? This is not a coincidence. It is a pattern of sabotage,” he added.

The group urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to reject any narrative designed to weaken confidence in public institutions or derail the government’s momentum.

“This country belongs to all of us, and no one, not even a former EFCC chairman, should be allowed to turn anti-graft agencies into tools of political warfare. We owe our democracy more than that,” Gidado said.

“We are citizens with no political affiliation. Our only loyalty is to truth, justice, and national stability. And we will not hesitate to speak out against those plotting in the shadows.”

CFTI concluded by pledging to continue monitoring political developments and exposing any conspiracy against the current administration or democratic order.