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  • Oyo Assembly to Makinde: honour Yoruba theatre legend, Lere Paimo

    Oyo Assembly to Makinde: honour Yoruba theatre legend, Lere Paimo

    The Oyo State House of Assembly has passed a motion to honour and celebrate veteran Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, popularly known as ‘Eda Onile Ola’, for his outstanding contributions to the promotion of Yoruba culture through theater.

    The Assembly made the call on Wednesday at its Yoruba plenary session while deliberating on a motion presented by the majority leader, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin (Ogbomoso South).

    The motion urged the state government to recognise and honour the Octogenarian Yoruba actor, Chief Lere Paimo, Eda Onile-Ola, who is among the oldest in the industry.

    It further called on the government to honour other veteran actors who have made an impact in the theatre industry.

    While highlighting Eda Onile-Ola’s remarkable career and his role in showcasing Yoruba culture and values through his performances, the House noted that Chief Paimo’s dedication to the arts has helped to promote the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

    Hon. Adedoyin in the motion commended Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration for his commitment to sustaining and promoting Yoruba culture, citing various cultural initiatives spearheaded by the government.

    He noted that while efforts have been made in festivals and tourism development, traditional Yoruba theatre, once a stronghold of cultural storytelling, is gradually fading.

    The Motion also urged the state government to support the production of traditional Yoruba plays that promote wisdom and good character, and ensure their integration into cultural tourism.

    It equally plans to hold a special plenary in honour of the theatre icon, and calls for the funding of documentaries and exhibitions showcasing Chief Lere Paimo’s work.

    “Yoruba culture is rich, and theatre is one of our strongest mediums to educate, entertain, and preserve our traditions. It is essential to recognise and support those who have dedicated their lives to ensuring these values do not disappear, one of them is Chief Lere Paimo, popularly called Eda Onile-Ola”, Adedoyin added.

    Read Also: Kunle Afod renovates Lere Paimo’s house ahead 85th birthday

    He further lamented that modern film productions have lost touch with Yoruba ethics, often promoting foreign influences instead of showcasing the moral values embedded in indigenous Yoruba storytelling.

    Hon. Adedoyin emphasised the importance of preserving theatre as a medium for educating younger generations on Yoruba values, saying, “Our ancestors taught us through storytelling, and legends like Chief Lere Paimo have carried this torch. We must support them and ensure that Yoruba cultural expressions continue to thrive.”

    The Oyo State Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin acknowledged the contributions of Yoruba actors and assured that the Assembly would take necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the resolutions contained in the motion.

  • Makinde to launch 2025 Omituntun Free Health Mission

    Makinde to launch 2025 Omituntun Free Health Mission

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde will today launch 2025 Omituntun Free Health Mission at Ibadan North East Local Government Secretariat, Iwo Road, Ibadan.

    Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, said this yesterday in her office.

    She said the comprehensive medical outreach was aimed at delivering free, quality health care services to residents across the 33 local governments.

    READ ALSO: Utomi’s search for vision of good society

    Ajetunmobi said the exercise was scheduled to last for six weeks, during which a team of highly skilled medical professionals would bring health care services closer to the people at the grassroots.

    She urged residents across local governments to take full advantage of the opportunity.

    Dr. Ajetunmobi hailed Governor Makinde for his dedication to the health and well-being of the people of Oyo State.

    She noted that Omituntun Free Health Mission was a testament to the governor’s people-centred approach to governance and his vision to leave no one behind in access to quality health care.

    Services to be provided during the mission include free surgical procedures, general and specialist medical consultations, dental services, ophthalmology (eye care) services, cervical cancer screening, breast examination, vital signs check, physiotherapy services, tuberculosis screening, as well as health talks and food safety education

  • Hajj: Makinde gives timeline to airlift intending pilgrims from Ibadan Airport

    Hajj: Makinde gives timeline to airlift intending pilgrims from Ibadan Airport

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Wednesday said the intending pilgrims performing the 2026 Hajj in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be airlifted directly from the Ladoke Akintola International Airport, Alakia, Ibadan.

    He gave the timeline during the farewell ceremony for the state intending pilgrims at the Hajj Camp, Olodo, Ibadan, where he also called on them to pray for both Oyo State and the Federal Government in the holy land.

    Giving an update on the ongoing upgrade of the airport to international standard, Governor Makinde said the project has been progressing well and has become a reality that will impact the economy of the state positively.

    He added that his administration has made huge progress on infrastructure development across the state, noting that the ongoing Ibadan Circular Road and the reconstructed Olodo Bridge will complement the government’s efforts on the Hajj Camp project.

    Makinde said, “I went to the airport two days ago, and I can tell you that it is a project God has already completed. The airport is now a reality. I am submitting a letter indicating that by the time we want to do next year’s Hajj, we can take off from our airport here.

    “We are not going to be doing a symbolic take-off, in which you would fly from here to Lagos and take off from that point. No. You will take off from here till you get to your destination. We hoped for it, worked towards it, and God has helped us to actualise the dream.

    “What flying out of Ibadan Airport during the Hajj operations of next year would do for us is that Customs and Immigration personnel would be posted there. This will make the airport assume both regional and international status.

    “Also, let me say in response to the request by the chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board, that we have made some progress on infrastructure. A few years back, when you wanted to come to the Hajj Camp, there was only one major road, but today, there is an alternative road.

    Read Also: Makinde swaps commissioners

    “The Circular Road will take you through Badeku from the back of this place, as you don’t need to go to Iwo Road. You can also turn right from here to link to Moniya Road.

    “Also, the bridge that didn’t allow us to host this farewell programme here last year has been completed, and I have seen it. They will also fix the road beyond this point that we are all standing on to complement what the chairman is requesting.

    “When I came here for the first time about six years ago, it was very dusty. But we have now made some progress, as the car park has been done, and other roads are being fixed. Before this time next year, the whole project would have been completed.”

    The governor equally charged intending pilgrims to follow laid down rules and avoid any act capable of tarnishing the image of the state and that of their respective families.

    He commended the chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheik Wahab Ateere, and members of the board for the successful planning and coordination of the 2025 Hajj operations.

    “I want to urge you, the pilgrims from Oyo State, to pray for the government while praying for yourselves and your families.

    “Remember to also pray for the Federal Government, because most of the things they do at the federal level always have an impact on what we do at the state level”, the governor added.

    Earlier in his welcome address, the chairman of Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Atere, appreciated Governor Makinde for his unprecedented developmental strides and continuous support to the Muslim community and the board towards a smooth 2025 Hajj exercise.

    He explained that with the support of the governor, the state has secured the visas for all the intending pilgrims, who will be airlifted in two batches on the 10th and 11th of May, 2025, without any delay.

    He added that the board has also secured befitting accommodations for all the intending pilgrims and made other arrangements successfully.

    In his lecture, Professor Kamil Koyejo Oloso charged the pilgrims to remain focused and perform the Hajj rites devotedly, spend their money wisely and look out for one another.

    Also in their separate goodwill messages, the chairman, Ibadan Muslim Community, Chief Bayo Oyero, and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu appreciated Governor Makinde for his unflinching support, charging the intending pilgrims not to use the Hajj operations for social visit or tourists’ adventure but as what it is, one of the pillars of Islam.

  • PDP governors are working to rebuild our party, says Makinde

    PDP governors are working to rebuild our party, says Makinde

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is going through a tough moment. Assistant Editor EMMANUEL BADEJO monitored Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who gave insight into the future of the party.  Excerpts:

    You and your colleagues met recently at Ibadan. Did you have the permission of your party organs to hold that meeting?

    We didn’t just meet as PDP Governors’ Forum, we invited the managers of the party. The acting national champion, national legal adviser and the national organizing secretary were there with us. Other members of the National Working Committee (NWC) were waiting around the venue of the meeting just in case there would be any need for them. The meeting was to tackle headlong the challenges within our party, and I’m quite glad we were able to make some decisions.

    There have been several interpretations of your decisions. While some say your action was an opposition against an individual in your party, others say you’re stylishly supporting the 2027 ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. What do you say?

    I totally disagree with those insinuations. First, there must be a process. If the managers of the party, the organs of the party are going into a merger or coalition, there’s a need for the managers of the party to know. But, it is still within the right of individuals to associate with whoever they want to associate with. But, as a party, we haven’t gotten there. As a party, our first assignment is to put the party on a good pedestal. A Yoruba adage says when it is certain that they are going to be made chiefs, some other people are out there throwing parties without knowing where they’re going. Before you go out and talk to other people, our house must be in order. That is where we are right now.

    Don’t you think some will label you and your colleagues to be involved in anti-party activity?

    Politics is a game of interest. You must be interested; you must have alignment with the wider organs of your party before you go out to meet other people. If you remember in 2019, even here in Oyo State with my election, we went into coalition with parties. But, the organs of the party in Oyo State and myself, as the candidate of the party were in agreement. And when we became successful, it was not difficult for me to cede positions to parties that were within that coalition. That was possible because we followed the process.

    We didn’t just wake up and say me as xyz in the party, just draw the party into any arrangements when the party organs do not have clue on what you are doing. They have no clue of what is in this coalition for them. They also have no clue whether this is personal or you are doing this in the best interest of the party and the people of Nigeria. Those are critical. If it is anti-party, we have a national disciplinary committee to examine it. No single individual is above the party.

    Read Also: UK to restrict visa applications from Nigeria, Pakistan, others

    How strong is the issue of zoning and is it still in the minds of the leaders of the party like Chief Olabode George said?

    Chief Olabode George is a respected leader of the party and he was there when the party was formed and he was not flippant. The only thing I can say is the fact that democracy is a game of number. If the majority of the people say we have to do zoning, then, we have to see it through. I won’t say anybody will have to be precluded until we get to that point. When we get there, we need to ask what’s in the best interest for the party, the country, and how you take decisions on certain issues. Then, certain people may be zoned out. It doesn’t mean they won’t be allowed to participate if they feel aggrieved with the majority’s decision and direction. If they are not happy with the issue of zoning, then, they can take it to the National Executive Committee (NEC), which will ratify it.

    So, anyone that has issues around the issue of zoning will take it to the zoning committee chaired by Governor Douye Diri. This is democracy, where everyone has his or her say, but the majority will have their way.

    As an astute politician that you are, what do you think is fair for your party to push forward in 2027? 

    We have to look at Nigerians first of all and ask what they are going through. Are they happy? Are we just playing politics? Have we reduced hunger in the land? Are people angry? What exactly should we be looking at? Those issues must be at the front burner in arriving at any decision. Politics, governance and all these things are not the end in themselves. The end is to ask if we’re able to make the lives of our people better and not just a section of the country; not just for, I’m sorry to say, a gang in Lagos. It must be for the generality of the country.

    It’s filtering in our ears that if the PDP will be considering anybody in the South West in 2027, it must be Seyi Makinde. Are you not hearing that?

    I mentioned it severally that nobody will set an agenda for me, I will set an agenda for myself. Right now, I am focusing on the people of Oyo State and the task they’ve given to me. I’m not distracted. We will do things the right way. We will stay focused to ensure we deliver governance. If I want to contest, I will come out at the appropriate time.

    This is my first public service job. All my life, I’ve not been in public space. Until I became a governor, I never knew that people could buy you tickets to travel, buy cars for you and so. All of those things, I worked for them. I came out when I saw that I have something to offer for the people of Oyo State. So, all I have now is to focus on my mandate, which I’ve been doing since I came into office.

    How does ‘President Seyi Makinde’ sound to you?

    Well, that may be president of my town’s union or Rotary club. But, let me say that no doubt that I have the capacity to occupy the highest office in this land. But, is it what I want to do now? Is it what Nigerians are craving for? Is it what my party will want to do? I don’t know. What I know is that we must fix our party and ensure that we are standing right. Let me say this: if my political journey ends here, I’m good. When I joined politics in 2007, I wanted to be a senator, but today, not only have I achieved more than that by the opportunity given to me.

    We’ll also build infrastructure that will lead our people well into the future. In 2019, I came up with a road map and when I decided I wanted to run in 2023, I put forward a road map on black and white so that people could bench mark us.

    I have the capacity to occupy the highest office in this land. But, where we are is to fix our party. I’d my political journey ends right here, I am happy. When I joined politics in 2007, I wanted to go to the senate. But, now I’ve achieved more than that. And I cherish the opportunity the people gave to me to make my difference.

    With the politics of Oyo State, we’re eavesdropping that you already have a man to take over from you?

    All I can say is that we have a lot of good people within the party in Oyo State and I’ll not just leave the team hanging. I’ve put in place the road of accelerated development of Oyo State. When I needed to recon test in 2023, I put in place the road of sustainable development. There are certain things we’ve been able to achieve.

    Some people said to me that we have made some infrastructure, but I don’t want to be remembered for those things. I want to be remembered for the institutions of governance we’ve been able to create in Oyo State.

    Whoever the people choose, I would have done my bit and left the stage.

    Which zone do you think should produce the next governor in Oyo State?

    Politics is a game of numbers, though about 50 percent of the people in Oyo domicile in Ibadan. Before I became a governor, I told them that the only way the governorship candidate can come from another place will be based on the performance of a governor who is not from Ibadan. Then, he can push that through. We’re still on this journey.

    Your friend’s name, Nyesom Wike, has been mentioned repeatedly in the trouble bedeviling the party. Do you see the governors’ resolving the issues in your party?

    Let me also say this that there was a time the PDP was in serious crisis and some people thought the PDP was gone. Most of these people were not there at the time, but Governor Wike was there to bring the PDP back from collapse; give it to him, he has paid his dues through the party. I was part

    We’re hearing that you already got a successor; some say it’s the turn of Oke-Ogun people to produce the next governor. Who’s successor?

    All I can say is that we have enough good and capable hands within our team in Oyo State and I will not leave the people of Oyo hanging. One thing we’ve been able to achieve is a major shift in terms of creating institutions that will sustain good governance in Oyo State. I will continue to prepare a roadmap for continued development of Oyo. Whosoever the people decide to get to choose, I will hand over the reign of power to such a fellow.

    Almost 50 percent of the population in Oyo is domiciled in Ibadan. However, way ahead before I became a governor, I told them that the only way the governorship can leave Ibadan, is when you have a governor that has performed excellently well; a governor that has won the trust of the people. If such a person is able to find a successor from any zone, then, he can push that through. However, I can say whether we’ve earned 100 percent of the people yet. But, if we focus on what we are doing, by the end of this year, we will definitely hear what the people are saying.

    The name of your friend, Nyesom Wike has always been mentioned in the crisis rocking the party. Are you sure that you and your colleagues will able to bring peace to the PDP considering the bloody nose it has received since 2015?

    Let me quickly say this: long before I became a governor, the PDP was in serious crisis and everybody thought the party was completely gone. Some of these people being mentioned today were nowhere at the time. Former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike was there. He supported the party and was instrumental in bringing the PDP from the brink. Give it to him; he has always done his bit for the party.

    I did G5 in the last presidential election because we thought after eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari, the president’s office should have been zoned to the South. Then, we got a zoning committee that left that option open. We went for the convention, though I supported Governor Wike, but the party’s delegates’ in their wisdom, elected Waziri Adamawa as the candidate of the party. There was a problem. Nevertheless, we decided to still go into the election with a united front. We asked for some agreement for our zone. The party chairman, Senator Ayu was from the North Central; our candidate was from the North East, and they were planning to make someone from the Northwest, though it hadn’t been announced at the time, to be the Director General of the campaign. That further put the party in more precarious state.  And right immediately after the convention, went to Adamawa governor, Gov. Fintiri and I asked that Wike should be allowed to be on the ticket and that would have been a stronger ticket.  Unfortunately, all the people around our candidate rejected that proposal. We also travelled to London to sort things out with him, and agreed on some things.  But, when he came back, he reneged on all that we discussed.

    The rest is history today.

    Now, we don’t want to go that route again. Under this dispensation, we the PDP governors met and I made it clear to all them that we must wipe the slate clean, forget the past, and be ready for a fresh beginning. This party still remains the hope of the common. What Nigerians are saying to us is that we should get our house together and leave the rest to them.  By 2027, it will not be APC versus PDP, but, it will be APC versus Nigerians.

    How will your agriculture agenda impact on Oyo and Nigeria’s economy?

    We were very clear from day one what we would do to expand the economy of Oyo State. We, at the beginning had our focus on security, agriculture and infrastructure. Our vision informed my visit to France. And, you’ll agree with me that Oyo has a comparative advantage in terms of agriculture.  We have the highest landmass, most of which are very arable. Yet, when we came in, we had the infrastructure challenge. Most of our zones are what we call farm settlements that were planned. So, we needed to be connecting all the zones.  We fixed first, the Ibadan zone, which is the major consumption centre.  We also fixed the Oke-Ogun zone, which is the major agricultural zone.  Next, we fixed the road between Oyo and Oke-Ogun zones.  We also fixed the road between Oyo and Ogbomoso, which is the second largest consumption zone.  And now, we just fixed the road from Ibadan to the Erua zone. Once we are done with these infrastructures that will aid agric business in the state. For us, we don’t enjoy going to Abuja every month to get the handout because we have what it takes to take care of ourselves. Alongside, we are developing our tourism potential. We believe these sectors will take Oyo State to the next level of economic buoyancy.

  • JUST IN: Makinde reshuffles cabinet, assigns new portfolios to commissioners

    JUST IN: Makinde reshuffles cabinet, assigns new portfolios to commissioners

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has announced a major cabinet reshuffle, reassigning key commissioners to new ministries in a move aimed at enhancing governance and service delivery.

    The announcement was contained in a letter signed by the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi, and released on Monday.

    According to the reshuffle, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Seun Ashamu, will now head the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

    The current Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, has been redeployed to the Ministry of Public Works, Infrastructure and Transport.

    Professor Dahud Shangodoyin, previously in charge of Public Works, will take over as Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources.

    Read Also: Makinde celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadanland at 90

    Also affected are the education and establishment portfolios. Professor Solihu Adelabu, Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, is moving to the Ministry of Establishments and Training, while Hon. Segun Olayiwola, formerly Commissioner for Establishments, will now oversee the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology.

    The reshuffle takes immediate effect.

    Governor Makinde urged all affected commissioners to remain committed and loyal in the discharge of their duties, emphasising the need for continued dedication to the development of the state.

  • Makinde celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadanland at 90

    Makinde celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadanland at 90

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has celebrated the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheik Abdulganiyy Agbotomokekere, on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

    He felicitated the renowned Islamic cleric for witnessing the landmark age, lauding him for making a great impact on Islam, Ibadanland, Oyo State and humanity.

    The governor, in a statement yesterday, described Sheik Agbotomokekere, who is also the Grand Imam of Oyo State and Grand Patron of League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta states, as a patriot and God-fearing leader, who has continued to be a blessing to Oyo State.

    He said: “Today, I celebrate our Baba, His Eminence Sheik Agbotomokekere, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, as he turns 90.

    Read Also: Makinde makes appointment into LG service commission, Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board

    “Baba has been an exemplary religious leader, with a great sense of patriotism and commitment to the development of Oyo State.

    “I celebrate his impactful life, which has seen him continue to make great mark on Islam, Ibadanland and Oyo State.

    “As he joins the rank of the nonagenarians, my prayer is that may Allah SWT grant him more years and good health to lead the people and make more impact on humanity.”

  • Makinde celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadanland on 90th birthday

    Makinde celebrates Chief Imam of Ibadanland on 90th birthday

    Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has celebrated the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, His Eminence Sheikh Abdulganiyy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

    Makinde felicitated with the renowned Islamic cleric for witnessing the landmark age, lauding him for making a great impact on Islam, Ibadanland, Oyo State, and humanity.

    The governor, in a statement on Sunday, described Sheikh Agbotomokekere, who is also the Grand Imam of Oyo State and Grand Patron of the League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, as a patriot and God-fearing leader who has continued to be a blessing to Oyo State.

    He said: “Today, I celebrate our Baba, His Eminence Sheikh Abdulganiyy Abubakry Agbotomokekere, the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, as he clocks 90.

    Read Also: Makinde makes appointment into LG service commission, Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board

    “Baba has been an exemplary religious leader, with a great sense of patriotism and commitment to the development of Oyo State.

    “I celebrate his impactful life, which has seen him continue to make great marks on Islam, Ibadanland, and Oyo State.

    “As he joins the ranks of the nonagenarians, my prayer is that Allah SWT may grant him more years and good health to lead the people and make more impact on humanity.”

  • Oyo Youth Summit: We’re giving youths opportunities to unlock potentials – Makinde

    Oyo Youth Summit: We’re giving youths opportunities to unlock potentials – Makinde

    Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that his administration would continue to give youths in the state the platforms and opportunities to unlock their potentials.

    The governor said his government realised that for any nation to prosper economically, it must create entrepreneurs, be committed to education of its young people and must take production seriously.

    He added that his administration has been pursuing these objectives since its inception.

    Governor Makinde spoke on Wednesday at the grand finale of the Oyo State Youth Summit 2025, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

    He stressed that youths must be educated, well-informed, and also lean towards entrepreneurship.

    Makinde said: “Sometimes, when I attend a programme like this, I ask myself: these people in front of me, are they stretching their hands out for us to give them handouts or are they the potentials that we need to unlock to create prosperity for this country?

    “Well, I believe that you folks that I am seeing here today are the potential that we must unlock to create economic prosperity for this country.

    “At 29, I started paying people’s salaries, and I have not stopped. Yesterday, at the commissioning of the ICT Centre donated by the Renewed Hope Initiative, I mentioned something very significant, which I believe is central to my message.

    “People will say that the average age in Nigeria is less than 30. So, what is the usefulness of our youths who are not productive? After leaving the university, there are no jobs for them.

    “Some people would talk about a conspiracy theory; that Nigeria is being held down by advanced countries. But we were in Finland together with some people here, and we asked them over there how they became one of the richest countries.

    “We asked if they have oil, but they said education led them to where they are currently as a nation. Nigeria’s illiteracy rate right now is quite high. So, my message is that nobody will hold Nigeria down once we get our structure and leadership right, and we will unlock these potentials.

    “Economic prosperity would come when we have entrepreneurs. Some of you are planning for jobs and looking at opportunities created by others. But I only worked for an organisation once in my entire life. I did one year of Youth Service in 1990-1991. I later worked for Shell, and after that, I started working for myself.

    “In the beginning, I could not even call myself a Managing Director, because I was too young.

    “So, we must create entrepreneurs, and you must always have that in mind. Get exposure if you have the opportunity. If you don’t, read up. We must be serious with education; we must educate our people to reduce illiteracy. If you are well-informed, you will be able to make logical decisions.

    “Finally, we must have intensive production. We have to be productive. I was here for a debate for the 2023 election, and somebody asked if I was going to support local government autonomy, and I said I would support productivity at the local government level.

    “If autonomy is about what you share with local government areas in Abuja, that is not going to take us anywhere, because our population is growing, and the handouts from Abuja have remained stagnant.

    “These are my messages to you this morning. Think about the three things that I already mentioned; economic prosperity would not come except we have entrepreneurs, except we have our people educated, and except we back it up with intensive production.

    “I give you the assurance that Oyo State would always lead the charge as we would give you the opportunities to unlock your potential.”

    Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, lauded the Governor Makinde administration for implementing policies and initiatives that have positively impacted youths in the state.

    She maintained that the administration has continued to prioritise youth development, knowing that the future of the state lies in the hands of its teeming young people.

    Adegoke charged youths to take ownership of their lives, unlock their potentials by being proactive, innovative and ready to impact their communities.

    She said: “Under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, our state has witnessed a standard perspective in youth empowerment with initiatives that have positively impacted the lives of our youths in the state.

    “This administration has prioritised youth development, recognising that the future of our state lies in the hands of our young people. His policies and programmes have been designed to unlock the potential of the youth, providing them with the necessary tools, skills, and support to succeed.

    “Our government has implemented various initiatives aimed at empowering the youth, including youth entrepreneurship programmes to foster innovation and job creation.

    Read Also: Makinde makes appointment into LG service commission, Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board

    “These initiatives are yielding positive results, and we are committed to continuing our efforts to ensure that every person in Oyo State has access to opportunities that would enable them to reach their full potential.

    “As we gather here today, I urge you to take ownership of your potential. Be proactive, be innovative and be determined to make a positive impact in your communities. Seize this opportunity to take calculated risks, develop your skills and build strong networks and mentorship. Stay focused on the face of challenges.

    “I want to use this opportunity to thank the governor for allowing me to serve the young people of Oyo State.”

    The Oyo State Youth Summit 2025 themed “unlocking youth potential; addressing needs, fulfilling dreams,” began on April 29, 2025 with an awareness walk/sensitisation on drug abuse across the five zones of the state, continuing on April 30, 2025 with plenary sessions, panel discussions and interactive sessions for skill development.

    Governor Makinde, who was given an Award of Lifetime Achievement in Governance, also presented different categories of awards to his Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Miss Lolade Ajibola; Managing Director of BOVAS Oil and Gas Limited, Dr (Mrs) Victoria Samson; Mr Mustapha Iskil, popularly known as Arojinle; and Mrs Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, among others.

  • Makinde makes appointment into LG service commission, Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board

    Makinde makes appointment into LG service commission, Muslim Pilgrim Welfare Board

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the appointment of a chairman and members for the Oyo State Local Government Commission as well as additional members for the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing).

    Recall that the Governor had earlier appointed Alhaji Hashim Atere and Alhaji Abdulrasheed Olokuta as Chairman and Vice Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) respectively.

    According to a letter signed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Honourable Segun Ogunwuyi, those appointed into the Local Government Commission are: Hon. Akinwale Akinwole (Chairman), Mr. Yusuf Ali Akinkunmi (full-time member), Alhaji Oke Taiwo (full-time member), Mr. John Abisoye Adisa-Oke (part-time member) and Mrs Nike Arewa (part-time member).

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    The appointment will take effect after confirmation by the Oyo State House of Assembly.

    The new members of Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) are, Abdu Rahman Agbotomokekere, Amusat Ayyub Agboola, Dawud Afolabi, Latifat Dairo and Mallam Abdusallam Abdullateef.

    The appointments are with immediate effect.

    The governor, while congratulating the new appointees, counseled them to see their appointment as a call to service. The appointments are with immediate effect. 

  • Makinde, Ishiekwene seek stakeholders’ collaboration on frameworks for continuous ICT learning

    Makinde, Ishiekwene seek stakeholders’ collaboration on frameworks for continuous ICT learning

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and the Editor-in-Chief, Leadership Newspaper, Azubuike Ishiekwene, have sought for stakeholders’ collaboration towards providing necessary frameworks for continuous learning of information communication technology by the Nigerian youths.

    Speaking at the 3rd graduation ceremony of the Yomi Denzel Foundation, Ibadan, the governor, called on the private and public sectors, philanthropist, and organisations to invest in the future of the youth through technology.

    Represented by the state’s commissioner for youths and sports, Wasilat Adegoke, the governor noted that technology driven, education and skills development must be accessible to all.

    According to him, technology, education and skill development remain a significant driver of economy transformation in this modern life.

    The governor appreciated the vision, the passion and unveiling commitment of Mr Yomi Denzel Olaniyi, the founder of the oundation. 

    He said, “Your investment in young Nigerians through tech education is not only but deeply intact, you have become a brick between doings and opportunity for our youth, and we are grateful for your dedication.

    “The real motivation of this foundation to empower Nigeria full youth, your programming skills in terms of gold chain, machine learning and data science, aligns perfectly with our commitment to you the government, innovation and job creation. 

    “As the world evolves, so must our strategy for empowering the next generation, technology the new front, and our youth must be decreed to learn in that space.”

    Makinde, who emphasised the importance of building a knowledge based economy and others in the leadership, disclosed that the state had invested massively in education, digital infrastructure, and skill acquisition programmes. 

    “This administration believes that giving our youth the right tools is not just an act of governors, it is a moral obligation to the future.

    “Today we celebrate not only the graduation, but 50 bright and determined young minds, but also the transformative power of vision driven initiative like the Yomi Denzel Foundation. 

    “We celebrate restlent innovation and hope to the graduating student, you are not just tech trained individuals, you are future distributors, entrepreneurs and solution providers. We are also proud that such an initiative is throughly here in ibadan, the intellectual capital of South West

    “It is also that more collaborations between the government and private institution like yours will continue to spring up fostering innovation and reducing youth unemployment to the staff, trainers, and coordinators of the yomi denzel foundation:

    “We say a very big thank you for your effort, your impact extend far beyond the word of your classrooms, you are shaping lives, building careers, and restoring hopes that is what you are doing. 

    “To our graduating students today, I want to also say congratulations, and I want to use this opportunity to urge you to use this opportunity wisely, do not wait for opportunities send by Mr Yomi Denzel, I want you to see to every others.

    “Opportunities come to none, create them, build solution and solve problems, design platforms that will uplift others, and never stop learning. You have received the seed of greatness, it is now your time to nurture and grow them”.

    The governor, who commended the goundation’s president, said “We are looking forward to partnering with likewise organisation to amplify our collective effort in youth empowerment, digital innovation, education and so on and so forth”.

    The guest speaker, Ishiekwene, in his lecture titled; “Empowering Nigeria’s Tech Future, One Young Mind At A Time”, noted that Nigeria stood at the cusp of a digital transformation driven by its youth. 

    He said with over 63 percent of the population under 25 (and 70% under 30), the nation’s demographic dividend provides a vast reservoir of tech-savvy, ambitious young minds, adding that this generation had grown up mobile-first, spurring rapid digital adoption. 

    While noting that Nigeria boasts Africa’s largest tech hub ecosystem, home to around 90 active tech hubs, the most on the continent, he said “We must candidly address the challenges that threaten to hold back Nigeria’s youth-driven tech future. 

    According to him, these include infrastructural deficits, funding hurdles, educational and social gaps, access to funding, education and skill mismatch, gender disparity in tech, regional and economic inequality, brain drain and talent retention.

    As a way to inspire the next generation, Ishiekwene recommended integration of digital skills in mainstream education, a practical step for the ministry of education to pilot a “Coding and Robotics” curriculum in a few states, working with partners like Coderina or private EdTech firms, and then scale up.

    He further recommended creation of more youth innovation hubs and incubators (Unilag and Covenant Universities are good examples), mentorship and role model programmes, promote inclusive participation and diversity, leverage government policy and investment, encourage private sector and academic collaborations, cultivate entrepreneurial mindset and soft skills and provide frameworks for continuous learning.

    He also called for the celebration and communicate success stories like the Yomi Denzel Foundation, to foster a mission to solve Nigeria’s tech problems to inspire the youth., adding, 

    Speaking with newsmen, Ishiekwene said, “Clear from what we have seen this afternoon that the youth, young people from Yomi Denzel Foundation are already rising that future.

    “Our role is to support you, to inspire you now I want to share with you some factors that are responsible for the kind of rapid change that we have seen among you all.”

    Addressing the graduands, the foundation’s president, Yomi Denzel Olaniyi, noted that they had worked hard during this year, and this was the end of the year, adding, “I want to stress that this is the beginning of your lives. 

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    “This is not the end, this is the beginning, I know you are young, you are teenager and you are often when you are young that you just have to go through life, the responsibility is on our parents on the government.

    “The responsibility for you life is in your hands, this is very important, you will decide the direction of your life. It is like the rocket ship,if you start at the wrong side automatically you will end up somewhere else, so you need to be careful during the next few years.

    “Which friends do you have, who do you hang out with, do you concentrate on school, on working, on doing something positive for your life in the future or do you choose the easy part, this will decide your whole life, and you need to take the choice of your life right now.

    “We are urging you to do so but the only, the one and only person who can control your life and take it to success is yourself”, he added.