Oyo Govt Signs MoU with Araromi LCDA on Iyake Suspended Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Oyo Govt Enhances Workforce Capacity, Trains 130 Civil Servants

 ...plans to expand training to All cadres 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2027: Tinubu charged to direct political appointees to resign

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twins Tourism Mourns the Passing of Adegbodu Taiwo

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May the soul of Adegbodu Taiwo rest in perfect peace.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- Implementing performance management systems, by  enhancing accountability and transparency

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

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

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

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

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

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

       

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

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

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

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

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

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

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

March 2, 2026.

OYOSOCU COLLABORATE WITH EU- FUNDED UNICEF SUSI PROJECT TO SENSITIZE TRADITIONAL HEADS AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL CHAIRMEN

The Honourable Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, 

Barrister Temilolu Seun Ashamu has solicited for the support of Traditional 

Heads and Community Development Council Chairmen in mobilizing 

community members to participate appropriately in the upcoming European 

Union funded United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Supporting Sustainable 

Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI) Project across the State so as to 

ensure fairness, transparency and unity in the selection of beneficiaries.

He made this appeal while declaring open a day sensitization meeting 

with Traditional rulers and Community Development Council Chairmen from 

the ten pilot Local Government Areas of (Afijio, Atisbo, Ibarapa North, 

Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Lagelu, Ogo-Oluwa, Oriire, Saki East and Surulere) that are

participating in the project.

The Honourable Commissioner who spoke through the Director of

Monitoring and Evaluation of the Ministry, Mr Femi Opatunmbi explained that the main objective of the meeting was to provide a very clear information 

about the goals and framework of the SUSI project in order to prevent 

misinformation and misconception among Community members.

He emphasized that the project is non-political with clear eligibility 

criteria, structured verification processes and zero tolerance for manipulation 

or favouritism.

 He noted that the Engr Seyi Makinde led administration in the 

State remains committed towards protecting public interest and trust.

Barrister Ashamu urged participants to guard against conflict, being bias 

and politicisation of the exercise, encouraging patience and understanding throughout its implementation. He added that their endorsement and 

cooperation would guarantee peace, credibility and inclusiveness.

In his goodwill message, the Social Behavioural Change Consultant from 

UNICEF, Mr Samuel Olatunji appreciated the Traditional Heads and Community 

Development Council Chairmen for their positive disposition towards the 

development of the State and their respective communities.

 He explained that the initiative aims to expand the existing Social Register of the Poor and Vulnerable in the State, using Multidimensional Poverty Indicators to ensure 

that support reaches those who truly need it.

Earlier in his welcome address, the State Coordinator, Oyo State Operation Coordinating Unit (OYOSOCU) 

Mr Ismaila Salami welcomed the 

stakeholders to the meeting and reiterated that Sustainable Development is a shared responsibility that the Government alone cannot achieve without the cooperation of Traditional rulers, Community Development Council Chairmenand strong Community structures.

He said the SUSI project represents hope for vulnerable households, 

stability for struggling families and a pathway towards long term social 

resilience, he added that if it is properly implemented and collectively 

supported, the initiative will leave a lasting legacy in Communities across the State. 

My Relationship With Oyo NUJ Built on Mutual Respect, Shared Values – Shina Peller

The Ayedero of Yorubaland, Chief Shina Peller, has declared that his longstanding relationship with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, is apolitical and not driven by personal political ambition.

Peller made the clarification while speaking at the 8th Shina Peller NUJ Ramadan Lecture and Iftar held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku GRA, Ibadan.

He explained that his association with the union predated his political career, stressing that it was built on mutual respect and shared values, particularly the commitment to truthful reportage and responsible journalism.

The former member of the House of Representatives noted that credible journalism remains a cornerstone for national development, adding that journalists must be encouraged to uphold ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.

Peller, who attended the event alongside close associates, Alhaji Tajudeen Ajala and Mr. Gbenga Awosoro, popularly known as Demdebula, commended the union for sustaining the Ramadan Lecture and Iftar initiative over the years.

He praised successive administrations of the Oyo NUJ for maintaining the programme since its inception nine years ago, describing the consistency as commendable.

The Ayedero of Yorubaland urged journalists to continue exposing corruption and abuse of office, promoting human rights and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities without fear or favour.

Delivering the Ramadan Lecture titled “The Role of Journalists in Promoting Peace and Security,” Dr. Adam Akewula, an associate professor in the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies at the University of Ibadan, emphasised that information dissemination should be guided by humanity, ethics, and tolerance.

Akewula stated that journalists play a crucial role in fostering peaceful coexistence and national stability, noting that religious and cultural diversity must be reported with sensitivity and responsibility.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the NUJ, Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas said that since assuming office on December 9, 2025, his administration had initiated  programmes that prioritise journalists’ welfare, capacity building, ethical reorientation, digital training and professional unity across the state.

The event climaxed with the breaking of fast and was attended by members of the Oyo NUJ, heads of media establishments, veterans and other stakeholders in the media industry.

Align Marriage Practices With Teachings of Prophet Muhammad — Oyo SSG Tells Couples

..as Sheik Atere highlights three ways of preventing single parenting 

The  Secretary to the Oyo State Government, who also served as the chairman of the 2026 Ile Alfa Sons and Daughters, Ramadan lecture, Professor Musibau Babatunde, said that the future of every home lies with the mother.

Speaking further at the 5th Ramadan Lecture of the royal family held on Sunday at Aliwo Royal Arcade, Agbo-Ile Aliwo, Ibadan, the SSG emphasized the importance of proper pre-marriage practices in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W). 

He noted that a thorough investigation of prospective families before marriage, once a standard practice, ensured strong and lasting unions.

“Today, many parents have neglected this duty. We now prioritize ceremonies, clothes, and celebrations over understanding the character and background of the families our children are about to marry,” Professor Babatunde said.

He urged men to take responsibility in marriage, noting that fulfilling family needs carries rewards on the Day of Judgment.        He also advised parents to understand the personality and background of their children’s future spouses, as this could help prevent challenges such as single parenting.

The SSG further commended widows and widowers who remarried, highlighting Islam’s encouragement of remarriage to strengthen families.

Professor Babatunde called on women to remain respectful and supportive of their husbands beyond the Ramadan period and advised husbands to guide their wives according to the teachings of Allah.  

He stressed that love, contentment, and the fear of Allah are key to a successful marriage. Reflecting on his upbringing, he credited his first Arabic school for shaping his life and urged Muslims to raise their children according to Islamic principles, including learning the Qur’an.

The guest lecturer, Sheikh Abdulwahab Hashim Atere, outlined three key ways to avoid single parenting. 

He said peace of mind is essential, warning that marriages fail when spouses lose inner peace or seek it outside the home. Love, he added, must be sustained despite challenges, helping couples remain patient and overcome difficulties.

Sheikh Hashim emphasized that both partners must be considerate, compassionate, and supportive of each other.

 He called on parents to guide their children about marriage to prepare them for responsible family life.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Dr. Rasheed Adekunle Fasasi recalled that the Aliwo family inaugurated its Annual Ramadan Lecture in 2022 during the reign of Oba Dr. Senator Moshood Olalekan Balogun Alli-Okunmade II as Olubadan.

Dr. Fasasi said that over the years, the lecture series has explored themes such as kinship in Islam, destiny, Ruqyah, and challenges faced by people of God. He noted that this year’s edition focused on “The Causes and Dangers of Single Parenting in Our Society: Islamic Perspective and Solutions.”

He explained that the programme was dedicated to departed family members, describing it as Sadakotul Jariyah, and praised Almighty Allah for blessing the Aliwo family with remarkable achievements, including producing an Olubadan, two senators, and other political officeholders.

 He also thanked family members and well-wishers for ensuring the success of the programme.

In his goodwill message, the former  Head of Service, Oyo State , Alhaji  Tajudeen, Aremu, highlighted the Aliwo family as a model of Islamic devotion. He noted that their consistent dedication has strengthened community bonds and enabled impactful religious programmes.

Alhaji Aremu urged parents to encourage their children to emulate these values, especially during Ramadan, which he described as a period of reflection, learning, and spiritual growth.  

He stressed that prioritizing Islamic teachings in raising children would create a society that is peaceful, respectful, and prosperous.

AJIBOLA URGES IBADAN INDIGENES TO KEY-IN INTO VISION OF OBA LADOJA

Chief Ajibola  Babatunde Suraj the Mogaji-Elect of Aliyu Oyabisehin Babakekere Dynasty has urged the entire indigenes of Ibadan to share the vision and the developmental agenda of His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1) in order to move Ibadanland forward 

The appeal was contained in the press release given to journalists during the maiden meeting of Aliyu Oyabisehin Babakekere family meeting held at N2/121 Oyabisehin Compound,Oke Aare , Ibadan presided over by the head of the family Alhaji Mudashiru Are

"According to the Mogaji-Elect, "Any true sons and daughters of Ibadanland should give necessary support to our paramount ruler on his unprecedented achievements within little time of his ascension to the throne". 

" Within the little time he ascended the throne,Oba Ladoja is so passionate about the unity and progress of Ibadanland particularly in the areas of security, land grabbing and injecting sanity into the traditional institutions", the Mogaji-Elect admonished 

Earlier in his speech, the family head,Alhaji Mudashiru Are expressed his gratitude for unanimously nominating the Mogaji-Elect in a peaceful atmosphere devoid of acrimony, rancour and division within the family 

The family head called on all family members to give unalloyed support to the Mogaji-Elect and contribute their quota for the overall development of the family compound especially in the renovation of family house that is crying for urgent attention 

He enjoined the family members to sustain the existing unity, peace , cordial and mutual understanding in the family 

Apart from teeming population of the family members present at the meeting ,executive members that attended the meeting included Baale Iwo - kooto elect, head of women folk ( Olori omoosu ) Bilikisu Sanni, youth leader Sulaiman Abdullahi among others

OYRTMA Cracks Down on Illegal Trading in Akobo Ojurin, Begins March 2 Enforcement of QR Code Jacket Policy

                

The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has launched a major enforcement operation in the Akobo Ojurin area of Ibadan to tackle illegal street trading, unauthorized parking, and traffic violations, while also announcing the commencement of enforcement of its QR Code Jacket policy for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators beginning March 2, 2026.

The enforcement exercise, carried out on Thursday ,February 26, 2026, forms part of a broader clean-up initiative aimed at restoring order and ensuring strict compliance with environmental and traffic regulations within the axis.

OYRTMA Chairman,major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd), said the operation targeted roadside traders engaging in indiscriminate display of goods, activities obstructing vehicular and pedestrian movement, as well as motorists and commercial motorcyclists flouting traffic rules, including one-way driving and illegal parking.

He noted that such practices constitute environmental nuisance and pose significant safety risks to road users.

 According to him, strategic points within the Akobo Ojurin axis were covered during the operation, with particular focus on traders, Okada riders, and motorists violating established traffic laws.

Major Adekoya expressed concern over what he described as persistent disregard for traffic regulations by some road users, warning that the agency would no longer tolerate actions that undermine public safety and public order. He urged traders and motorists to comply with stipulated regulations or face the full weight of the law.

Residents and street observers commended the intervention, describing it as timely and necessary to ease congestion and improve environmental sanitation in the area.

The enforcement drive was carried out in collaboration with the Amotekun Corps, Operation Burst, and other security agencies.

In a related development, OYRTMA has concluded sensitization campaigns on the QR Code Embedded Jacket Policy for commercial motorcycle (Okada) and tricycle (Maruwa) operators across key locations including Olodo, wofun, and Oki in Egbeda Local Government Area of Ibadan.

Major Adekoya disclosed that enforcement of the QR Code Jacket policy will officially commence on March 2, 2026. He revealed that over 10,000 QR Code Jackets have already been distributed free of charge to operators to encourage compliance.

He said the policy, introduced in November 2022, mandates all Okada and Maruwa operators to register under the state’s Residents’ Registration Scheme and wear QR code-embedded jackets for proper identification.

According to the Chairman, low compliance levels have emboldened criminal elements and contributed to rising cases of Okada-related crimes. He stressed that the QR Code system is designed to enhance traceability, improve security, and protect both operators and passengers.

In his response, General Manager of OYRTMA, Commabder Adeoye Ayoade, reiterated that the policy is primarily for the safety of operators and residents. He warned that defaulters will be barred from operating on Oyo State roads and also cautioned riders against alcohol consumption while on duty.

The state government maintained that the combined enforcement efforts reflect its broader commitment to ensuring a safe, orderly, and conducive environment for residents and businesses across Oyo State Adesagba said .

Oyo Govt. Partners Theophilus Akinyele Family on 10-Day Road Cleanup to Mark State’s 50th Anniversary

 

The Oyo State Government has partnered with the Akinyele family to launch a 10-day roadside clean-up and sensitization operation along the 12.5-kilometre roadway in Ibadan named in honour of the late Theophilus Adeleke Akinyele.

The  Commissioner for , Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, said the initiative commemorates the 94th posthumous birthday of the distinguished administrator and coincides with the 50th anniversary of the creation of Oyo State, underscoring its historic and civic significance.

He noted that the late Akinyele served as Secretary to the Military Government and Head of Service of Oyo State from 1976 to 1979, playing a foundational role in shaping the early governance structure of the state.

Flagging off the exercise, Hon. Aderinto described the collaboration as a model of responsible public-private partnership. 

He reiterated that environmental protection remains a shared responsibility between government and citizens.

“We believe the work of government should not be by government alone but the people working with the government. This cleanup is a call to every resident to embrace proper waste management and protect our shared environment,” the Commissioner stated, commending the Akinyele family for their leadership and civic commitment.

The 10-day operation will involve desilting road surfaces, clearing drainages and medians, removing accumulated waste, deploying mechanical equipment and manual labour, and conducting post-cleaning washing to ensure lasting sanitation. The Akinyele family provided both locally and internationally sourced equipment, as well as dedicated manpower, to support the exercise.

The initiative aims to restore and sanitize the targeted road corridor and adjoining drainage systems, promote sustained compliance with proper waste management practices, encourage residents to patronize government-accredited waste collectors, and strengthen enforcement against illegal dumping, waste burning, unauthorized construction on roadways, and structures built on waterways.

The Oyo State Government urged residents to support the clean-up drive by maintaining proper sanitation practices, patronizing accredited waste collectors, and actively reporting environmental infractions to ensure a cleaner, healthier, and a saner Oyo State.

The Commissioner further highlighted additional state measures, including the Oyo State whistleblower strategy and the Oyo SSS digital platform, which enables residents to report environmental violations by submitting photos or videos for investigation and prosecution where necessary. 

During the flag off, The honourable commissioner took measures against some construction on highways and water ways set back,and affirmed that more will be done.

Leading the family’s effort, Mr. Akikunmi Akinyele described the initiative as a living tribute to their father’s legacy of discipline, order, and excellence in public service.