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Tag: Aiyedatiwa

  • Aiyedatiwa constitutes Ondo teaching service board

    Aiyedatiwa constitutes Ondo teaching service board

    The Federal Government says it is working with relevant stakeholders to fast-track the relocation of cattle roaming the Abuja city centre to designated grazing reserves.

    The Minister of Livestock Development, Dr Idi Maiha, disclosed this on Tuesday at the 2025 Media Retreat in Kaduna with the theme “Driving Livestock Growth through Strategic Communication”.

    Maiha said the ministry would in the coming weeks unveil a national peace campaign aimed at ending farmer-herder conflicts across the country.

    “In a few weeks, the ministry will embark on a national peace campaign to achieve sustainable peace between farmers and herders, organised groups, and communities across the country.

    “On Friday, we had a robust engagement with the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) as part of our moves to relocate animals roaming the city centre in Abuja to grazing reserves.

    “We need peace. We must give ourselves peace,” he said.

    The minister stressed the need for strong commitment from state governments to ensure comprehensive and lasting peace, noting that peace in rural communities was crucial for food security, job creation, and national stability.

    “We cannot keep on losing members of our armed forces to bad elements. We are working with all the security agencies to silence the guns.

    “Our focus is to have a country with truckloads of milk and not armoured personnel carriers. Milking machines should replace machine guns,” he said.

    Maiha said the livestock sector remained a key driver of wealth creation, job opportunities, food security, and rural stability.

    Read Also: Owo Chief Imam ‘ll be remembered for commitment to peace, unity – Aiyedatiwa

    According to him, the ministry’s priority over the next five years is to provide the sector with the right policies, programmes, projects, and activities.

    Speaking on the retreat, Maiha said communication was central to advancing the livestock sector.

    “Following this retreat, we expect you to leverage your skills to further amplify the narrative of the livestock sector.

    “We appreciate the influence of your profession and hope you will continue to use your pen strategically and positively in reporting on the sector.

    “Your reporting has been instrumental in shaping public understanding of our policies and influencing the responses of farmers, herders, investors, and other stakeholders,” he said.

    The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Chinyere Akujobi, said the retreat underscored the media’s role in shaping public understanding of government initiatives.

    Akujobi, represented by Dr Victor Egbon, Director of Ruminants and Monogastric Development said effective communication was about fostering trust, shaping perceptions, and inspiring meaningful action.

    “Media play a critical role in interpreting policies, reporting on developments, and conveying the realities of events, activities, interventions, and programmes to Nigerians and the global community.

    “Through this strategic partnership, we will address the challenges inherent in the sector and explore the abundant opportunities available.

    “This retreat aims to enhance your proficiency in covering the livestock sector, elevate your work, and strengthen our partnership,” Akujobi said.

    (NAN)

  • Aiyedatiwa urged to upgrade Ondo Township Stadium

    Aiyedatiwa urged to upgrade Ondo Township Stadium

    A socio-economic group, Ekimogun Roundtable, has called on Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to upgrade and modernise Ondo Township Stadium.

    It said the once-proud facility had fallen into disrepair and no longer met modern sporting requirements.

    In a letter to the governor, signed yesterday by the group’s Acting Secretary, Ms. Christiana Ayodele, Ekimogun Roundtable lamented that the 1,000-capacity stadium had suffered years of neglect and abandonment, leaving it unfit to host local and international matches.

    The group stressed that the stadium lacked basic modern facilities required to prepare athletes and contingents for national and international tournaments.

    READ ALSO: Six major markets in Lagos for buying cheap foodstuffs

    “Sports remain a vital tool for youth empowerment, talent discovery, economic stimulation and community development. This situation not only limits opportunities for our youths, but also undermines the potential of sports as a driver of tourism and investment in the community,” it said.

    The group urged the Aiyedatiwa-led administration to embark on a holistic modernisation programme that would bring the stadium up to CAF and FIFA standards.

    The plan, it noted, must include an international-standard pitch and Olympic-grade athletics tracks, modern facilities for tennis, volleyball, handball, swimming and table tennis, installation of floodlights, electronic scoreboards and advanced media centres for live international broadcasts, renovated spectator stands, VIP areas and standard changing rooms and multipurpose indoor sports halls.

    The group further proposed the establishment of a sports village, complete with hostels, gymnasiums and recreational spaces, to attract training camps and boost sporting tourism in Ondo.

    According to Ekimogun Roundtable, such an upgrade would position Ondo as a viable host for National Sports Festivals, CAF qualifiers, international friendlies and other major competitions, while also creating jobs, reducing youth restiveness and enhancing the state’s reputation as a hub of sporting excellence.

    While acknowledging past interventions by well-meaning individuals, the group insisted that only a government-led initiative could guarantee the stadium’s revival.

    It dismissed recent claims by Abiola Makinde, the member representing Ondo East/West Federal Constituency, that he had ordered a “total renovation” of the facility.

    The group described Makinde’s claim as political and misleading, clarifying that his intervention only covered pavilion roofing and painting, replacement of plastic seats, provision of 20 solar streetlights and minor pitch repairs.

    “These palliatives fall far short of CAF and FIFA benchmarks and should not be mistaken for the expected modernisation,” it said.

  • I’m not quarrelling with Aiyedatiwa, says Tunji-Ojo

    I’m not quarrelling with Aiyedatiwa, says Tunji-Ojo

    • Minister in grassroots mobilisation for Tinubu

    Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has said there is “no fight” between him and Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    Some elders of All Progressives Congress, under the aegis of Ondo Mandate Elders Forum, had offered to intervene in a “perceived rift” between Aiyedatiwa and Tunji-Ojo. They had urged both men to work together, stressing that the state cannot afford a crisis ahead of 2027.

    There have been claims Dr. Tunji-Ojo and Aiyedatiwa were at a crossroads, especially over rising support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

    During a medical outreach yesterday at Ikare-Akoko in Akoko North East organised by Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT) for residents of Ondo North Senatorial District, Tunji-Ojo assured the people there was no conflict between him and the governor.

    He described claims of a rift as “baseless and mere speculation”.

    The minister, represented by Bode Obanla, said his focus was getting a solid support to project achievements of President Tinubu.

    Read Also: Tinubu, Tunji-Ojo get kudos for reforms, others

    Tunji-Ojo restated his commitment to the Tinubu administration, saying on his mandate he stood

    “There is no fight between me and the governor. What matters is that we work to project achievements of Tinubu.

    “Politics is local, and my duty is to also support groups committed to promoting the work of President Tinubu,” he said.

    According to him, GMT is not an Ondo State-based organisation but a nationwide movement with a track record of innovative programmes.

    He lauded the group’s grassroots initiatives, including medical outreach, pledging support for the group.

    “Any group mobilising for Asiwaju is welcome. GMT has shown commendable initiatives, and I will keep supporting efforts that take the message of the President to the grassroots,” Tunji-Ojo added.

    GMT’s Director General, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, said the free medical outreach targeted about 1,000 beneficiaries per senatorial district and would extend to constituencies.

    Yusuf-Ogunleye said the initiative is a way of complementing Tinubu’s policies.

    “Health is wealth. We will partner government, and we will continue to do it,” he said.

    GMT’s Woman Leader, Mrs. Olamide Falana, reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the President.

  • Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo denies rift with Aiyedatiwa

    Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo denies rift with Aiyedatiwa

    Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has dismissed claims of a dispute between him and Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, insisting there is “no fight” between them.

    His clarification followed remarks by members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the Ondo Mandate Elders Forum, who had pledged to intervene in what they described as a “perceived rift,” urging both leaders to work together in the interest of the state.

    The APC elders stressed the importance of unity ahead of the 2027 elections, warning against prolonged political tension in Ondo.

    Speaking on Thursday in Ikare-Akoko, Akoko North East Local Government Area, during a medical outreach organised by the Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT), Tunji-Ojo dismissed the reported discord, describing it as “baseless and mere speculation.”

    Represented at the event by Hon. Bode Obanla, one his loyalists, the interior minister, explained that his major focus remained on supporting initiatives that promote the achievements of President Bola Tinubu, adding that on his mandate, he stands

    “There is no fight between me and the governor. What matters is that we work together to project the achievements of Asiwaju (Tinubu). 

    “Politics is local, and my duty is to also support any genuine group committed to promoting the good work of President Tinubu,” Mr Tunji-Ojo said. 

    He explained that the GMT was not an Ondo state-based organisation but a nationwide movement with a track record of innovative programmes. 

    The minister also lauded the group’s grassroots initiatives, including medical outreach projects, and pledged continued support.

    Read Also: Shettima, Tunji-Ojo, Govs, hail DG ICRC, Ewalefoh at 50

    “At this point, any group mobilising for Asiwaju is welcome. GMT has shown commendable initiatives, and I will keep supporting efforts that take the message of the president to the grassroots,” Mr Tunji-Ojo added. 

    Earlier, GMT Director General, Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, said the free medical outreach was targeting about 1,000 beneficiaries per senatorial district and would extend to constituencies to deepen its reach.

    Yusuf-Ogunleye described the initiative as a way of complementing Tinubu’s policies. 

    He appreciated the supports extended so far to the group by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and assured him of more robust initiatives to market President Tinubu. 

    “We know that health is wealth and for us at GMT, we will continue to partner with government, and we will continue to do it,” he said. 

    The GMT woman leader, Mrs. Olamide Falana reaffirmed the group’s commitment to showcasing the president’s achievements. 

  • Governor Aiyedatiwa inaugurates committee for agric investment

    Governor Aiyedatiwa inaugurates committee for agric investment

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has inaugurated Steering Committee of the Framework for Responsible and Inclusive Land-Intensive Agricultural Investment (FRILIA).

    Speaking yesterday at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office in Akure, the governor described the move as a bold step towards boosting food production, securing livelihoods and ensuring fair returns for host communities.

    He said the initiative would balance investment opportunities with community rights and benefits, while strengthening food security in line with national policies.

    “The inauguration of this committee marks another giant step in our administration’s quest to ensure food security for the good people of Ondo State through sustainable collaboration involving host communities, local government areas and the state government,” he said.

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    Aiyedatiwa disclosed that FRILIA was adopted by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum in collaboration with the World Bank and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).

    He said the state had already secured 26,000 hectares in Ori Ohin, Ose Local Government, for a pilot scheme, with efforts ongoing to secure additional land.

    Aiyedatiwa, who will chair the committee, explained that its mandate includes supervising FRILIA projects in Ondo, monitoring finances and implementation, and carrying out post-project evaluation

    He said the government had earmarked N7.5 billion for the agricultural sector to support the initiative.

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Forestry, Leye Akinola, described FRILIA as a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural and land reform agenda.

    He said the framework would safeguard community rights, foster investor confidence and create a “win-win platform” where investors and host communities would benefit.

    He cited the engagement with Fujaik International as an example of investor interest already attracted by FRILIA, noting that it would generate jobs, increase revenue and protect community rights.

    Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Foluke Tunde-Daramola, lauded the governor’s leadership, saying his reforms had redefined land allocation for agriculture and positioned the state as a model for responsible land governance in Nigeria.

  • Governor Aiyedatiwa seeks united front against terrorism, banditry

    Governor Aiyedatiwa seeks united front against terrorism, banditry

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminals threatening the peace and unity of the country.

    Speaking at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Arogundade, the governor said the country had the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bore the scars.

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    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor noted that the memories of the attack would linger.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror’s might and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts and ensure a safer state,” Aiyedatiwa said.

    He highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistic support for operatives.

    He said the measures had earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    The governor lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, health care and social development.

    The cleric hailed the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values.

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against terrorism, bandity

    …pledges justice for victims of Owo massacre 

    Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminal elements, threatening the peace and unity of the nation.

    Speaking at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, the governor said the country has the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging the military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bear the scars. 

    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the entire state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor stressed that the memories of the victims would linger. 

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror’s might and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts, and ensure a safer Sunshine State,” Aiyedatiwa said.

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    The governor highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistics support for operatives. 

    He noted that these measures have earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    Aiyedatiwa also lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development.

    In his remarks, Bishop Arogundade applauded the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values. 

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against, criminal elements

    Aiyedatiwa calls for united front against, criminal elements

    • Pledges justice for victims of Owo massacre

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has called on Nigerians to unite in the fight against terrorism and criminal elements, threatening the peace and unity of the nation.

    Speaking on Saturday at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Akure, during the 15th Episcopal Anniversary and 35th Priestly Ordination Anniversary of the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, the governor, said the country has the capacity to defeat terrorists sabotaging the military’s efforts at ensuring national stability.

    Recounting the June 5, 2022 massacre at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, where over 40 worshippers were killed, Aiyedatiwa noted that survivors of the violent attack still bear the scars.

    He described the tragedy as a major blow to families of the victims and to the entire state.

    Although some suspects linked to the attack have been arrested and are being prosecuted, the governor stressed that the memories of the victims would linger.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing justice, while making security a top priority.

    “As we continue to seek justice for them, let us stand together against terror and other forms of criminalities. In unity and love, we will find the strength to heal the wounds, mend broken hearts, and ensure a safer Sunshine State,” Aiyedatiwa said.”

    READ ALSO: North frantic about 2027

    The governor highlighted his administration’s support for security agencies, disclosing that 75 high-grade Hilux vehicles equipped with modern gadgets were recently procured, alongside monthly logistics support for operatives.

    He noted that these measures have earned the state recognition as one of the safest states in Nigeria, attracting business and investment.

    Aiyedatiwa also lauded Bishop Arogundade as a beacon of hope and an embodiment of peace, justice, and human dignity, commending the Catholic Church for its contributions to education, healthcare, and social development.

    In his remarks, Bishop Arogundade applauded the state government for returning missionary schools to the church, promising continued delivery of quality education anchored on strong moral values.

    Reflecting on his 35 years of priesthood and 15 years as bishop, he urged newly ordained priests to remain steadfast in devotion to God and service to humanity.

  • Aiyedatiwa not tampering with LG funds, we’re fully in control, says Ondo ALGON

    Aiyedatiwa not tampering with LG funds, we’re fully in control, says Ondo ALGON

    The Ondo state chapter of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) has faulted the claim that the monthly allocations accruing to them from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) are being tampered with by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    ALGON explained that contrary to the claims, the monthly funds meant for the local government are being managed directly by the local government chairmen for grassroots development, denying any interference from Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    Reports had claimed that the LG chairmen in the state were allegedly being stifled with funds by Governor Aiyedatiwa, who needed to adequately run their respective council areas despite the July 2024 ruling of the Supreme Court, which granted financial autonomy to local governments.

    Speaking on Friday in Akure, ALGON Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, said the state’s council bosses have full control of their finances, paid directly from the federal allocation, and are channelling them into grassroots development projects.

    Fasua, who is also the chairman of Akure South LGA, noted that since the emergence of the chairmen in all 18 LGAs of the state, the local government administration had been more effective and efficient under the current government of Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa promises cash gifts to Ondo athletes at Youth Games

    “It’s not true that the governor (Lucky Aiyedatiwa) is tampering or diverting LG funds from the federal allocations. How have we been able to embark on the level of development currently ongoing in our local governments?

    “Local government administration is more effective and efficient today under the government of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. We, the chairmen, are fully in charge of our finances, and anyone saying otherwise is simply not telling the truth.

    “Take Akure Local Government, for example. In just five months in office, I have procured 10 vehicles for our operations — something previous administrations could not achieve within the same timeframe,” he said.

    The ALGON chairman, who lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for his leadership qualities, stressed that visible grassroots projects are proof that LG funds are being used for the people’s benefit.

    He also listed several intervention projects, such as road construction, water supply schemes, drainage systems, and flood control interventions, as ongoing projects across various council areas.

    “Across the LGAs in the state, projects are visible and ongoing: roads are being constructed, water projects are spread across communities, and essential services are being delivered directly to the people. These are clear results of prudent management of local government funds.

    “If the governor were dictating or controlling our finances, how would we have been able to achieve these feats? People themselves are applauding the impact we are making.

    “Right now, we have also deployed tractors to clear waterways to prevent perennial flooding — a proactive step that is being replicated in other LGAs across the state,” Fasua added.

    According to a report, some council chairmen who pleaded anonymity had expressed concern that despite huge FAAC releases to the state, each council is only allowed to access N4 million monthly, a development they argued has made it difficult for them to carry out their statutory responsibilities effectively.

    They had alleged in the reports that most of the allocations are managed centrally under a joint account system, with councils required to remit a substantial portion of their funds to the Ministry of Local Government.

    “For instance, in the last FAAC for June, some local governments received as high as ₦644 million, ₦590 million, and ₦405 million. Despite this, we only had access to ₦4 million for council operations. This is not enough to run our offices, let alone deliver development projects,” one of them claimed. 

  • Ondo approves N350m for 2025 students’ scholarship, bursary

    Ondo approves N350m for 2025 students’ scholarship, bursary

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the sum of N350 million for the payment of the 2025 scholarship and bursary awards to students of the state origin studying in tertiary institutions across the country.

    In a statement issued by his spokesman, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Tuesday, the governor said the package covers five different categories of scholarship, including those for medical students, law students, and students with disabilities.

    According to him, the funds will benefit about 12,000 students, representing an increase from last year’s N335 million, which is disbursed to 11,200 students.

    Governor Aiyedatiwa recalled that in 2024, his administration had raised the annual bursary from N10,000 to N20,000, while students with disabilities received N75,000 each, and scholarship beneficiaries got N100,000 each.

    He stressed that education remains the cornerstone of development, adding that his government is determined to unlock the potential of young people through access to quality learning.

    “Many of our students face significant financial challenges in pursuing their academic dreams. That is why we provide bursary and scholarship awards, as well as financial assistance, to support them, alleviate financial burdens, and enable them to focus on their studies.

    “These awards are a testament to our commitment to investing in the future of our state and our country. We must ensure that our students have the necessary support to excel in their academic pursuits,” he said.

    The approval comes just two weeks after the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) commenced payment of its 2023/2024 scholarship and bursary scheme, benefitting 4,837 indigent students from its mandate areas.