Friday, June 6, 2025

Eid-el-Kabir: Shangodoyin Celebrates with Muslims, Calls for Unity, Peace, and Emulation of Prophet Ibrahim's Virtues

 



The Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources in Oyo State, Prof. Dahud Kehinde Shangodoyin, has extended heartfelt greetings to Muslims across the State on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, urging citizens to reflect on the virtues of sacrifice, faith, and obedience exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.


In a statement commemorating the 2025 Eid celebration, Prof. Shangodoyin congratulated the Muslim Ummah and called on all residents to emulate the values of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)—truthfulness, peace, and love—as the foundation for sustainable development and social harmony.



He highlighted the inclusive leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, whose commitment to religious tolerance has fostered peaceful coexistence among diverse faiths in Oyo State.


“It is noteworthy for everyone to emulate the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim which center on love, tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence. We encourage the faithful to demonstrate these virtues for the growth and development of our State and Nation,” the statement read.* 


Shangodoyin also emphasized the need for citizens to eschew actions that threaten unity, urging them to use this holy season to strengthen love, promote peace, and commit to building a better society.


He praised the continued prayers and resilience of Nigerians, stating that divine grace and the commitment of the people have sustained the nation through challenging times.


The release concluded with a call for ongoing prayers for Nigeria, urging all citizens to show renewed passion and dedication to nation-building and peaceful coexistence, particularly in Oyo State, the Pace Setter State.

Oyo State Chairman Service Commission Rejoice with Muslims as they celebrates Eid-el-kabir.





The Chairman Oyo State House of Assembly Service Commission,  Honourable Femi Julius Okedoyin says Nigeria's present predicament is a test from Allah and it will soon end in joy and happiness.


Okedoyin stated this in his 2025 Eid-el-Kabir message said just as Allah surprised Prophet Ibrahim on the Mount of Arafat by replacing his son Ismail with a ram, Nigeria will soon get rid of its many challenges and it will be a success story at last.


He therefore charged Nigerians to continue to demonstrate strong faith and engage in more devotional and sacrificial acts saying Allah has promised ease after hardship and succor after tribulations.



"The story behind Eid-el-Kabir festival was one that demonstrated total obedience and submission to Allah. Prophet Ibrahim had already blindfolded his son Ismail and was already moving the knife up and down his neck but Allah replaced Ismail with a ram and his son was unharmed. I am sure another opportunity has presented itself for all of us in Nigeria to use this year's Eid-el-Kabir to renew our faith in Allah. We should never lose hope in the sincere believe that all will be well with our nation soon. Prophet Ibrahim laughed and rejoiced at the end of his trial , we shall also live to see a better and more prosperous Nigeria which will be devoid of all the present crises. " the Chairman prayed.


According to him, Nigerians should imbibe other significant lessons of Ileya festival like having and demonstrating strong piety and the act of sharing and caring for the needy. 


"We should learn to extend love to ourselves all the time. During Eid-el-Kabir, meat and food are shared among ourselves and most importantly among the poor people. This will no doubt promote love, togetherness and peace amongst us. Let us remember that our meat and food do not get to Allah but our piety . We should constantly support the needy and the downtrodden amongst us so as to make life easier and meaningful for them too. " Hon Okedoyin counselled.


While calling on Islamic faithful and indeed all Nigerians to use this festival to pray for an end to insecurity across the Country, the Chairman said the situation is more worrisome now than before. 


He used the medium to specially felicitate the people of Oyo State on this year's Ileya festival, and prayed to Allah to accept the sacrifice and the prayers of the entire Islamic faithful.


" Our people in Oyo State are already experiencing new lease of life. Special thanks to the people friendly policies of Governor Seyi Makinde. I want to urge the residents of the State to increase their prayers for this administration so that more developmental strides will be achieved. " He added.

Oyo Advisory Council Chairman, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN Celebrates Muslim on Eid-el-Kabir The Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, OFR, has extended his heartfelt greetings to His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, FNSE, D.Sc, GSSRS, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdul-Ganiyy AbuBakr Agbotomokekere, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta State, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, and all Muslims in Oyo State on the auspicious occasion of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration. In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the State Capital said Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. This event embodies the themes of faith, obedience, and devotion, encouraging Muslims to reflect upon their relationship with God and the wider community. The statement said the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir is marked by sacrifice and sharing, as Muslims around the world partake in the symbolic act of Qurbani (sacrifice). This act not only serves as a reminder of the trials faced by Prophet Ibrahim but also signifies the importance of charity, compassion, and social responsibility. In our local context, it provides an opportunity to bond with family and friends while also considering the needs of the less fortunate. He continued, "I would like to commend the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for his continued efforts to improve the lives of the people of Oyo State. His administration has been proactive in fostering social inclusion and development that transcends religion and ethnicity. With this backdrop, we are reminded that the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir aligns with the core objectives of his administration in promoting peace, unity, and collective progress. As we gather for prayers and festivities, let us share in the joy and blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (SWT), recognizing that our diverse backgrounds are what enrich our society. The statement added, "To the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, thank you for your spiritual guidance and teachings, which serve as a beacon of hope for our communities. Your role in encouraging our youths to lead lives of integrity and purpose cannot be overstated. We must continue to inspire the next generation, embedding within them the values and ethics that are both essential to our faith and beneficial to society at large". "As we look towards the future, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding among different faiths. In the face of religious intolerance and conflict, we must strive to be ambassadors of peace. The lessons learnt from Eid-el-Kabir extend beyond the bounds of Islam; they resonate with universal themes of sacrifice, compassion, and communal harmony". The statement noted Ends

 



The Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, OFR, has extended his heartfelt greetings to His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, FNSE, D.Sc, GSSRS, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdul-Ganiyy AbuBakr Agbotomokekere, the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta State, Alhaji Dawud Makanjuola Akinola, and all Muslims in Oyo State on the auspicious occasion of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.


In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the State Capital said Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command. 


This event embodies the themes of faith, obedience, and devotion, encouraging Muslims to reflect upon their relationship with God and the wider community.


The statement said the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir is marked by sacrifice and sharing, as Muslims around the world partake in the symbolic act of Qurbani (sacrifice). This act not only serves as a reminder of the trials faced by Prophet Ibrahim but also signifies the importance of charity, compassion, and social responsibility. In our local context, it provides an opportunity to bond with family and friends while also considering the needs of the less fortunate.


He continued, "I would like to commend the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, for his continued efforts to improve the lives of the people of Oyo State. His administration has been proactive in fostering social inclusion and development that transcends religion and ethnicity. With this backdrop, we are reminded that the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir aligns with the core objectives of his administration in promoting peace, unity, and collective progress. As we gather for prayers and festivities, let us share in the joy and blessings bestowed upon us by Allah (SWT), recognizing that our diverse backgrounds are what enrich our society.


The statement added, "To the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, thank you for your spiritual guidance and teachings, which serve as a beacon of hope for our communities. Your role in encouraging our youths to lead lives of integrity and purpose cannot be overstated. We must continue to inspire the next generation, embedding within them the values and ethics that are both essential to our faith and beneficial to society at large".



"As we look towards the future, let us reaffirm our commitment to fostering dialogue and understanding among different faiths. In the face of religious intolerance and conflict, we must strive to be ambassadors of peace. The lessons learnt from Eid-el-Kabir extend beyond the bounds of Islam; they resonate with universal themes of sacrifice, compassion, and communal harmony". The statement noted 


Thursday, June 5, 2025

Eid ul-Adha: Oyo State Pension Board Chairman, Hon. Tunji Rafiu Adekunle, Felicitates with Muslim Pensioners

 



The Chairman of the Oyo State Pension Board, Hon. Tunji Rafiu Adekunle, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to all Muslim pensioners across the state on the joyous occasion of Eid ul-Adha.


In a goodwill message released today, Hon. Adekunle praised the resilience, faith, and enduring contributions of retired civil servants, particularly the Muslim faithful, as they mark this sacred festival of sacrifice and devotion.


“This season reminds us of the values of obedience, sacrifice, and unity,” he said. “Our Muslim pensioners have served our state with dignity, and it is only fitting that we celebrate with them in this moment of spiritual significance. Eid Mubarak to you all.”


He further urged pensioners to continue to uphold the values of peace and prayer, especially for the continued progress and prosperity of Oyo State. Hon. Adekunle specifically called on the retirees to remember the current administration, led by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, in their prayers.


“As we celebrate, I kindly urge our revered pensioners to continue to pray for Governor Seyi Makinde and his administration,” Hon. Adekunle stated. “The Governor remains committed to the welfare of pensioners and all citizens, and your prayers are vital for the strength and wisdom required to sustain good governance.”


He concluded by reaffirming the Board’s dedication to improving the welfare and prompt payment of entitlements to all pensioners in the state.

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Oyo Surveyor General Commends Governor Makinde Leadership Quality




The Surveyor General of Oyo State, Surveyor, Olusoji Adeoye has commended Governor Seyi Makinde Leadership Quality as he  graciously  approved  the purchase  of  digital  modern  equipments   and new vehicles  for effective  service  delivery.


He stated this during the sent forth retirement programme for some members of staff who are bowing out of the State Civil Service. The programme was held at the agency office premises, Secretariat, Ibadan.


He appreciated the State Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development for supporting the agency at all times whenever the need arises.


Surveyor  Adeoye  charged members of staff to key into the Sustainable Development Agenda of the Omititun 2.0 of the present administration in the State.


He said "when you are in service, leave  a life of impact because one day you  will retire and people will have cause to say something about you".


He charged all members of staff to be deligent with their work and continue to contribute their own quota to serve the government of the day.


The Surveyor General said retirees from the agency has demonstrated good track record of value, sound work ethics  and character which is such an inspiration for other staff.


Responding, one of the retirees,  surveyor Olumuyiwa Ope appreciated the management staff of the office of the Surveyor General of Oyo State for organizing the senth forth programme for the retired members of staff, saying that, it is memorable.


Ends.....

Oyo Advisory Council Chair, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, Welcomes Newly Appointed Members

 



The Chairman of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, OFR, has commended Governor Seyi Makinde on the appointment of the newly appointed members of the Oyo State Advisory Council.


In a statement issued and signed in Ibadan, the Oyo State Capital, the Chairman underscored the importance of the contributions of the new appointees, Hon. Abiola Adebukola Ajaja, Dr. Aderemi Ayodele, Alhaji Rasaq Gbadegesin and Pastor Akinade Alamu.

The State Advisory Council Chairman expressed his heartfelt congratulations and noted the importance of their appointments.


He said, “We are privileged to welcome these outstanding individuals, whose rich tapestry of experience and expertise will undoubtedly enhance the work of the State Advisory Council. Each member is a beacon of potential, and together, we will strive towards the execution of strategies that will align with the vision of a more prosperous and sustainable Oyo State,” he stated.

He continued, "Oyo State Advisory Council is tasked with providing strategic advice to the Governor on policies and matters affecting the State. 


The integration of new members is seen as a vital step toward revitalizing efforts to navigate the complexities associated with governance and development in the State".

 

Chief Bolaji Ayorinde, SAN, OFR, emphasised that the Governor’s selection of the new members reflects not only their competencies but also their commitment to service and the development of Oyo State. 


He highlighted various areas in which the Council aims to focus its efforts, including Economic Development, Education, Healthcare, Infrastructure, and Community Engagement, in line with the Omitutun 2.0 vision in the State.

 Chief Bolaji Ayorinde admonished the new members to leverage their wealth of experience in their respective fields to inform decisions and recommendations that would ultimately benefit the residents and good people of the State. 


“Your expertise is paramount as we embark on this journey together. We face myriad challenges in Oyo State, but with innovative solutions rooted in our shared knowledge, there is no limit to what we can achieve,” he noted.


He reiterated the importance of collaboration within the Council, stating that the synergy of ideas will be crucial in implementing the Oyo State Roadmap to Sustainable Development.


“It is paramount that we work as a cohesive unit, engaging with one another and with stakeholders across the state. Our recommendations must be informed by research, data, and, most importantly, the voices of the people we serve. Listening to the community is key to driving meaningful change.


Chief Bolaji Ayorinde also reaffirmed the present administration's commitment under the able leadership of   Engineer Seyi Makinde, FNSE, D.Sc, GSSRS, to transparency and accountability, emphasising that the State Advisory Council would uphold these principles in all its operations.

 

“Our mandate is not just to advise but to ensure that our advice is grounded in integrity and serves the common good. We will work to uphold the trust placed in us by both the Governor and the citizens of Oyo State.” 


The Chairman concluded his remarks by conveying his excitement about the work ahead and fostering a culture of innovation. “Let us be guided by the principle that sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Together, we will explore new avenues, challenge the status quo, and embark on initiatives that will pave the way for the Oyo State of tomorrow. Our responsibility is profound, but so is our opportunity to make a lasting impact”, he affirmed.

"As the newly appointed members prepare to begin their journey on the Council, it is apparent that they carry a mandate not just from the Governor but from the diverse and dynamic people of Oyo State.


 Their collective experience will play an integral role in shaping policies that make significant strides towards achieving the overarching goal of sustainable development".


Chief Bolaji Ayorinde SAN, OFR


Dr. Aderemi Ayodele                        Hon. Abiola Adebukola Ajaja

  

Alhaji Rasaq Gbadegesin                               Pastor Akinade Alamu




 

Monday, June 2, 2025

VIDEO: Oyo CPS on Monday - Makinde brought my Fasola dream alive, says former Military Governor, Popoola

 



A former Military Governor of the old Oyo State, Major General Oladayo Popoola (Rtd), has showered encomium on Governor Seyi Makinde for bringing to life his dreams about the Fasola Farm Estate.

The retired General, who was military governor in the state from January 1984 to August 1985, said this during an interview with The People’s Verdict.

According to him, Fasola Farm Settlement was a project that was dear to his heart and he had wanted to turn the place around, but he couldn’t do much before his redeployment to Ogun State as a military governor.


He said, “We tried our best then to turn around Fasola, but it just didn’t work. Even some of the things we took there were destroyed. Now, Makinde has resuscitated it. Everybody is now talking about Fasola. I am quite happy about that.”


Recall that shortly after his assumption of office, Governor ‘Seyi Makinde picked the moribund Fasola Farm Settlement as the pilot of three farm settlements (along with Eruwa and Akufo) to be reconstructed into agribusiness industrial hubs. 


The Fasola Agribusiness Industrial Hub now has about a dozen medium to large scale agribusinesses operating on the premises. These companies are into crop production, livestock production, mechanisation and processing enterprises.


Sequel to its string of successes, Fasola Industrial Hub was recently designated the first Agribusiness Transformation Centre in Nigeria by the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone.

General Popoola also lauded Makinde for his intervention that brought an end to the imbroglio which had crippled Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, and frustrated both students and lecturers for many years.

The former military governor said, “We all know what happened to LAUTECH some years back. We all know how the school was always being closed down and nothing was happening. When he became the governor, Makinde set up a committee which midwifed the process of Oyo State becoming the sole owner of LAUTECH.”

Giving his impression about Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, Popoola said, “One will have to go into a good dictionary for a good description of the Governor. He is a very quiet achiever. He is somebody who respects others. He is very hardworking. He has done a lot to improve the situation in the state better than he met it.”

He added, “He has made a lot of impact, I must say. Talk about agriculture, he has done a lot. Look at infrastructure; virtually all the roads in Ibadan have had a facelift. Look at education; he is doing a lot. If I continue to list, I will not stop. Honestly, he has done a lot. He is a great achiever and Oyo State has benefitted a lot from him.”

Watch the video.





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