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Tag: Adebo Ogundoyin

  • Oyo Speaker pledges legislative support for mobile clinics, cancer screening programs

    Oyo Speaker pledges legislative support for mobile clinics, cancer screening programs

    The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has pledged comprehensive legislative support for cancer prevention and HPV awareness.

    The commitment was announced at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Mobile Truck Clinic and Molecular Laboratory initiative spearheaded by the HPV Consortium at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan.

    The event, graced by Governor Seyi Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Bayo Lawal, Minister of State for Health, Dr. Isiaq Salako, international partners from Northwestern University, USA, and prominent health experts, marked a major milestone in the state’s battle against HPV-related diseases and preventable cancers.

    Delivering his goodwill message, Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin lauded the launch of the Mobile Truck Clinic, which will deliver cancer screening and preventive services directly to underserved communities across four local government areas of Oyo State.

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    He said, “It is targeting 50,000 to 60,000 citizens in its initial phase, while screenings will cover cervical, anal, oral, breast, and prostate cancers, as well as diabetes and hypertension.

    The clinic, backed by the John R. Flanagan Charitable Foundation, and the newly commissioned Molecular Laboratory symbolize not just infrastructure, but a revolution in community-centered health delivery.”

    The Speaker commended the HPV Consortium led by Professor Imran Morhason-Bello for embracing a multidisciplinary research model: integrating Public Health, Basic and Clinical Medical Sciences, Nursing, Dentistry, and the Humanities. Strategic partnerships with global institutions such as Northwestern University (USA) and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (UK) reflect a commitment to cutting-edge research and transformative outreach.

    Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin shared emotional reflections on losing his mother to cancer two years ago and growing up with a father who battled sickle cell anaemia, instilling values of empathy and impact that guide his leadership today.

    According to him, the Oyo State House of Assembly fully recognises the role of science, data, and innovation in policy making, and it is committed to ensuring that legislative support aligns with the advancement of public health.

    “I would like to pledge our legislative support for Cancer Prevention and HPV Awareness, exploring the possibility of passing a resolution mandating routine HPV vaccination for eligible age groups in public schools, in line with WHO recommendations. We will also support awareness programs in partnership with our Ministries of Education and Health.

    “We will advocate for special budget lines dedicated to supporting community outreach programs such as the Mobile Truck Clinic. These funds will strengthen local implementation in the LGAs, ensuring sustainability beyond the pilot phase.

    “Besides, the State Legislature will work with the Oyo State Primary Health Care Board and the Consortium to establish formal mechanisms of oversight and accountability, ensuring that mobile screening programs are regularly evaluated and adapted based on real-time data.

    “Through our Youth Parliament and civic engagement channels, we will support sensitisation drives in schools and communities.

    “In collaboration with stakeholders, we will consider introducing a Bill on Comprehensive Cancer Control in Oyo State. This law could provide a legal framework for screening, research, data collection, and patient support systems across the state.

    “This is more than a ceremony—it’s a call to conscience. We must not rest until preventive screening becomes a norm, not a privilege.” Ogundoyin declared.

    He called on government bodies, NGOs, academia, and the private sector to rally behind cancer prevention and early detection strategies.

  • Ogundoyin launches first post legislative scrutiny units

    Ogundoyin launches first post legislative scrutiny units

    Oyo Assembly in partnership with the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) has officially launched Nigeria’s first Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Units in the legislature and the Ministry of Justice.

    Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin inaugurated the units during a brief ceremony at the Western Hall, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat Ibadan

    The pioneering initiative, according to the parties, involved aims to strengthen legislative oversight, ensure accountability, and enhance the impact of laws passed by the Assembly.

    Ogundoyin, who was represented by his deputy, Muhammad Fadeyi, said the introduction of PLS into the Assembly’s legislative framework is a testament to the lawmaker’s commitment to deepening democracy, fostering inclusiveness, and ensuring that the voices of the people they serve resonate in the decisions that shape their lives.

    He added that the PLS Unit is designed to provide a structured approach to reviewing the performance of laws, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements. 

    According to him: “Our duty as lawmakers does not end with the passage of laws; we must ensure that these laws are effectively implemented and remain relevant in addressing societal needs. With this Unit now fully established in Oyo State, our Assembly is positioned to lead in ensuring that laws passed by this House translate into real benefits for our people”. 

    Oyo Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Olubunmi Aare said the PLS Unit would contribute to better legislation.

    The Country Representative of WFD, Mr. Adebowale Olorunmola, praised the Assembly for making history with the launch of the PLS Unit.

    Prof Adewale Aderemi of NILDS said the importance of PLS in improving the quality of legislation could not be underestimated.

    “PLS is really important. Oyo State benefitted at the expense of the National Assembly. We urge the House to use PLS to test itself and ensure that laws passed are having the desired effects in terms of implementation and compliance”.

  • Yuletide: Oyo speaker empowers over 1000 constituents

    Yuletide: Oyo speaker empowers over 1000 constituents

    In the spirit of the season, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has empowered over 1000 constituents with a cash gift of N20,000 each.

    The event, held at the Ori-Oke family residence of the Ogundoyins in Eruwa, Ibarapa East State Constituency, was part of the Speaker’s programs to empower people in his constituency and show appreciation for their immense support.

    The 1000 beneficiaries, carefully selected from all 10 wards in the constituency, were overwhelmed with joy as they received the cash gift. 

    Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, while presenting the cash, reiterated his commitment to supporting the businesses of his constituents, as promised. 

    He also assured them of his continued quality representation, demonstrating his dedication to their welfare.

    “Today’s program is a testament to my tireless efforts to uplift my constituents and promote economic growth in my constituency. This initiative is not an isolated incident, it is a continuous exercise. 

    He said, “I have continued to demonstrate my commitment to the development of Ibarapa East State Constituency. We are supporting our people’s business activities and boosting their morales. It is my own humble way of giving back to my community”

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    The Speaker emphasized the need for unity and collaboration amongst all PDP members in the constituency. 

    He urged his constituents to continue supporting the present administration, assuring them that their efforts would yield positive results

    The program was attended by an array of dignitaries, including party and ward executive officers, party chieftains, and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibarapa East State Constituency.

    Recall that, the Speaker in July, 2024 empowered 300 artisans, traders and farmers with N50,000 each to boost their businesses. About 100 students got N20,000 each while 110 youths and some community members received N25,000 each.

  • Oyo Speaker Ogundoyin advocates reconciliation among Igbo leaders

    Oyo Speaker Ogundoyin advocates reconciliation among Igbo leaders

    The Igbo ethnic group in Oyo State has been urged to unite and work together to address differences, challenges, and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.

    The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin made the call at an extraordinary Igbo town hall meeting held in Ibadan.

    The Speaker emphasized the need for a united front in ensuring rapid development, especially for future generations.

    He stressed that leaders of the community in Oyo State must be intentional about reconciliation and conflict management.

    “Honoured to attend the Igbo town hall meeting, convened by Hon. Tallest Innocent, this gathering brought Igbo leaders together to foster peace and unity in Oyo State.

    “As Speaker, I emphasized our legislature’s commitment to laws benefiting all, regardless of tribe or culture. My personal connection to the Igbo community through my late mother, Yeye Justina Ogundoyin who hailed from Imo State makes this mission even more important.”

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    The Speaker acknowledged the state government’s recognition of the Igbo people’s significant contributions to the growth of the economy.

    He encouraged unity among Igbo leaders and other tribes, urging them to shun ego to enjoy more dividends of democracy from the state government.

    The Convener of the Peace meeting, Senior Special Assistant to Governor  Seyi Makinde on community relations (Igbo CommunityInnocent Tallest described the event as a testament to the conquest of lingering factionalism among Igbo communities in the state.

    He announced plans for elections to form Igbo community leadership and called for national unity to tackle Nigeria’s challenges.

    Representatives of the factions praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of cohesion and collective progress for Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

  • E-parliament: Ogundoyin seeks collaboration of strategic partners for state assemblies

    E-parliament: Ogundoyin seeks collaboration of strategic partners for state assemblies

    The chairman, conference of speakers of state legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has called for collaboration with strategic partners to support the implementation and adoption of E-parliament in State Assemblies across the country.

    Ogundoyin spoke while delivering a keynote address at a day reflection session organised by the Conference in collaboration with its strategic partners – Partnership to Engage, Reform and Learn, PERL, and Engaged Citizens Pillar, ECP.

    He emphasized the need for a unified digital platform to streamline legislative activities, improve data management, and facilitate communication among legislators, committees, and stakeholders.

    According to Ogundoyin, E-parliament will enhance transparency and accountability, improve citizen engagement and participation, streamline legislative processes, and increase access to legislative information and better decision-making through data analysis and research.

    He said: “I would like to leverage the expertise and resources of PERL and other partners to ensure our State Assemblies embrace E-parliament to make legislative processes more open and accessible to citizens, streamline legislative operations, reduce time and resources wasted on manual operations, provide access to data, research and analysis to inform legislative decisions, facilitate communication and collaboration amongst legislators, committees and stakeholders and other laudable benefits.

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    “This development is part of the Conference of Speakers’ efforts to champion legislative reforms, promote good governance, and strengthen democratic institutions in Nigeria.”

    He urged strategic partners to join forces with the Conference of Speakers to drive this initiative, sharing expertise and resources to ensure successful implementation.

    Ogundoyin, who is the speaker, of the Oyo state House of Assembly further expressed optimism about the potential for E-parliament to transform the legislative landscape in Nigeria.

    He acknowledged and commended PERL and ECP as well as other strategic partners for advocating and implementing various legislative reforms which have significantly improved the capacity and effectiveness of state legislatures.

    “I would like to acknowledge and commend our strategic partners for their remarkable programs and activities which continued to improve our legislative processes and ultimately promote good governance in our dear nation.

    “As we gather here today to reflect on our journey so far, I am reminded of the significant progress we have made in championing legislative reforms at the state level.

    “The Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria has been at the forefront of this effort, and I am proud to say that our collaboration with Partnership to Engage, Reform, and Learn (PERL) and others has been instrumental in driving this progress.

    “Through our joint efforts, we have successfully advocated for and implemented several key reforms, including Funds Management Bill/Law, State Legislative Service Commission, State Legislative Finance Guidelines, Legislative Financial and Administrative Autonomy, Capacity Development program, Robust Engagements with the State Legislatures on Constitution Review Exercises among others”,  Ogundoyin said

  • Knocking Ogundoyin on LG autonomy preposterous

    Knocking Ogundoyin on LG autonomy preposterous

    • By Adeniyi Johnson

    In the landscape of Nigerian governance, local government autonomy has been a long-sought goal, heralded as a significant step towards decentralisation and grassroots development. Hon Adebo Ogundoyin, Oyo Speaker and the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers in Nigeria, has been a stalwart advocate for this cause. Recent criticisms have misconstrued his remarks about the implementation challenges of local government autonomy, portraying him as an opponent of the very reform he has championed. This misrepresentation is not only unfair but also distracts from the substantive issues at hand.

    Under Hon Ogundoyin’s leadership, the Oyo Assembly passed the Bill for local government financial autonomy in February 2023. This legislative achievement underscores his commitment to empowering local governments and enhancing their capacity to serve their constituencies effectively. The bill’s passage is a testament to his belief in the principle of decentralization and the need for local governments to have control over their finances. Given this track record, it is illogical and disingenuous for any serious commentator to claim that Hon Ogundoyin opposes local government autonomy.

    The crux of Hon Ogundoyin’s remarks in Abuja was a cautionary note about the implementation challenges of local government autonomy. His concerns were not about the principle or the law itself but about ensuring that the autonomy translates into tangible improvements in governance and service delivery. Nigeria’s history is replete with well-intentioned laws that have floundered at the implementation stage due to systemic challenges such as corruption, inadequate compliance mechanisms, and entrenched bureaucratic inefficiencies.

    Hon Ogundoyin’s perspective reflects a pragmatic understanding of these issues. He recognizes that while legislative frameworks are crucial, their efficacy depends on robust enforcement and the capacity of institutions to operate independently and efficiently. This realism should be seen as a strength, not a weakness. It underscores a commitment to not just passing laws but ensuring they work effectively in practice.

    Local government autonomy is indeed the best way to ensure a fair distribution of the dividends of democracy. It brings governance closer to the people, enabling local authorities to respond more swiftly and appropriately to the needs of their communities. However, for this autonomy to be truly transformative, several steps must be taken: Strengthening Legal and Institutional Frameworks: Local governments must be equipped with the necessary legal and institutional tools to operate independently. This includes not only financial autonomy but also administrative and operational autonomy.

    Building Capacity: There must be a concerted effort to build the capacity of local government officials through training and development programs. This will ensure that they have the skills and knowledge required to manage resources effectively and deliver quality services.

    Enhancing Accountability and Transparency: Robust mechanisms for accountability and transparency are essential to prevent corruption and ensure that resources are used for their intended purposes. This includes regular audits, public disclosure of financial information, and strong anti-corruption measures.

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    Community Engagement: Engaging communities in the governance process can enhance transparency and accountability. Local governments should establish mechanisms for regular consultation and feedback from their constituents.

    Federal and State Support: While local governments must be autonomous, they also need support from federal and state governments in terms of funding, policy guidance, and capacity building. This collaborative approach can help address systemic challenges and ensure a smoother implementation of autonomy.ConclusionLocal government autonomy remains a pivotal reform for Nigeria’s democratic and developmental aspirations. 

    Hon Adebo Ogundoyin’s leadership and advocacy for this cause are commendable. His cautious optimism regarding the implementation challenges should be seen as a call to action to address these issues head-on, rather than as opposition to the reform. For local government autonomy to fulfil its promise, a holistic approach that includes strong legal frameworks, capacity building, accountability measures, and community engagement is essential. Only then can the dividends of democracy be equitably distributed to all Nigerians.

    • Adeniyi Johnson, BSc, PGDPA, ANIPR, FPD-CR, is a PR consultant & public affairs analyst
  • Financial Autonomy: Conference of speakers’ chairman, Ogundoyin seeks dialogue between PASAN, NGF

    Financial Autonomy: Conference of speakers’ chairman, Ogundoyin seeks dialogue between PASAN, NGF

    The chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Adebo Ogundoyin, has stressed the need for continuous dialogue between the leadership of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN) and the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) on the implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures.

    The Conference chairman said this in Ibadan when the Southwest leadership of PASAN led by its zonal vice president, Prince Adewale Adele paid him a courtesy visit.

    Ogundoyin, who is the speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly said the two parties must continue to meet to ensure that the issue of implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures is resolved amicably to avoid a further industrial impasse.

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    He promised to facilitate a meeting between the NGF, the Conference of State Legislatures and the leadership of PASAN where all the stakeholders will be able to discuss and highlight issues surrounding the implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures.

    He added: “I appreciate the leadership of PASAN in the Southwest for coming to the Oyo State House of Assembly and for paying me a visit. I am happy that the issue of implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures is top on the agenda of our discussion.

    “I believe in continuous dialogue and I want to assure you that the leadership of the Conference will facilitate more engagements and discussions with all the stakeholders especially the Nigeria Governors’ Forum to amicable resolution of the matter.”

    Speaking earlier, the zonal vice president of Southwest, Prince Adewale Adele told Ogundoyin that the essence of the visit was to appeal to all stakeholders particularly the state governors to ensure the full implementation of financial autonomy for state legislatures.

    Prince Adele commended the speaker for his unrelenting efforts which led to the 30 percent negotiated CONLESS approved for the parliamentary staff by Governor Seyi Makinde as well as the reinstated 35 percent legislative allowance for the staff.

    According to him, to avoid a total shutdown of all State Assemblies across the country, the issue of financial autonomy must be resolved as soon as possible.