The Nation Newspaper

Tag: ONDO

  • Slim allocation threatens Edo, Ondo governorship polls, others, says INEC

    Slim allocation threatens Edo, Ondo governorship polls, others, says INEC

    • Electoral agency seeks raise of vote to N89 billion
    • NDDC owing contractors N50b, minister tells lawmakers

    Next year’s governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states may be hampered  by financial constraints unless there is increased budgetary allocation to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), its chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said yesterday.

    He said the allocation should be increased from the current N40 billion to N89 billion to enable the agency perform its constitutional responsibilities creditably next year.

    Yakubu complained that the cash backing for the N18 billion approved as supplementary budget for the commission by the National Assembly before the last off cycle elections in Bayelsa, Kogi and Imo states have not been released.

    The Edo governorship election is expected to hold in September next year while the Ondo poll may hold in October.

    Also, court-ordered by-elections are expected to be conducted by INEC.

    The agency will also conduct by-elections to fill some National Assembly seats, which became vacant,  following the appointment of the federal lawmakers into the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

    The chairman, who defended the Commission’s 2024 budget proposal before the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, pointed out  that the N40 billion appropriated for it for 2024 can only cover it’s personnel and social contributions.

    In 2022, N40 billion budgetary allocation was approved for INEC. It was jacked to N50 billion in 2023 budget. However, the commission requested for N335 billion for the conduct of 2023 general election.

    Read Also; Our transformation efforts on economy succeeding with NASS cooperation – Tinubu

    Yakubu explained that with N35 billion personnel cost, the next year’s budget did not make adequate provision for capital, overhead and electoral matters.

    He recalled that  while N50 billion was appropriated for INEC in 2023 as its statutory budget, an additional N18 billion was approved for the Commission in the Supplementary Budget, bringing it to N68 billion.

    Yakuu said: “We need N89 billion rather than N40 billion. We have given a detailed breakdown of how we intend to spend the N89 billion. Personnel cost rises from N26.5 billion in 2023 to N44.5 billion in 2024, overhead cost N7.9 billion, electoral expenditure N9.7 billion and a  capital expenditure N909 Million.

    ‘The N40 billion given to us under the envelope budget is grossly inadequate to meet our expenditure requirement for 2024. You may recall that the Federal Government introduced the 40 percent peculiar allowance in March 2023 and all Agencies that are on the Consolidated Public Salary Structure were required to pay the consolidated salaries.”

    “The circular came after the budget was appropriated in December 2022. So, no provision was made in the budget at all. To pay the peculiar allowance to over 15 thousand staff of the Commission we needed N10.6 billion that was not provided for.”

    He added: “At the same time Duty Tour Allowance (DTA) was revised by a minimum of 100 percent across the board. Again, we could not implement it.

    “Then, after the withdrawal of the fuel subsidy, the N35 Thousand wage award by the Federal Government for six months from September 2023 to February 2024 was announced and there was no provision in our budget for the implementation of these categories of allowances.

    “We made a case to the Executive, and they made a provision for N18 billion for INEC under the Supplementary budget to enable us meet these obligations.

    “Practically speaking, the budget for the Commission for 2023 is N68 billion; the N50 billion plus the N18 billion under the supplementary budget. But I must also say that we are waiting for cash backing for the N18 billion under the supplementary budget. We hope that very soon we will get the cash backing,

    “We are surprised that  the 2024 budget dropped from N68 billion to N40 billion because that was what was appropriated to the Commission in 2021. So, the amount is simply insufficient to even meet personnel costs because of the new policy on additional allowances for officials.

    “The N40 billion can only cover personnel costs and social contributions.  Our personnel cost in 2023 was N21.8 billion but because of the 40 percent peculiar allowance, the new DTA, the 35 percent wage award, and others, our wage bill now is N36.5 billion. If you take it out of the N40 billion, there is virtually nothing left in the budget for Capital, Electoral, and Overhead Expenditures.”

  • Overhead tank kills mum, nine-day-old in Ondo

    Overhead tank kills mum, nine-day-old in Ondo

    An overhead tank that collapsed on a storey building at Ayedun Street in Akure, Ondo State capital, has crushed a mother and her nine-day- old baby to death.

    The incident occurred yesterday morning.

    Read Also: Supporters rejoice as Ondo Assembly decleres Aiyedatiwa as acting governor

    Two other persons, grandmother of the baby and his elder brother were said to have sustained injuries.

    Witnesses said security personnel have taken the bodies to the morgue, while the injured were rushed to a nearby hospital.

  • Internet fraudster kills father’s tenant in Ondo

    Internet fraudster kills father’s tenant in Ondo

    An ex-convict and internet fraudster, Fatai Bakare, has been arrested by operatives of the Ondo State Police Command for the alleged murder of his father’s tenant, Onyimi Grace.

    Grace, aged 42, was found concealed inside a Ghana must go bag, in an uncompleted building at Ore, Odigbo local government area.

    Fatai, who was found with blood stains on his legs, was arrested while reportedly fleeing to Irele.

    Read Also: Thugs storm Ondo College, destroy fence, economic trees

    Ondo Police spokesman, SP Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, in a statement, said blood soaked clothes found in the house were the clothes he wore on the of the murder

    She said the case would be transferred to SCID for further investigation.

  • Group to AG: Monitor Ondo financial transactions

    Group to AG: Monitor Ondo financial transactions

    A Group, Social Rehabilitation Grace and Support Initiative (SRG) has written the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef  Fagbemi ((SAN), urging him to give close monitoring to financial transactions in Ondo State.

     It also enjoined him to guide against what it described as medical coercion of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, who is currently attending to his health.

     In an open letter to the AG, a copy of which THISDAY obtained, the SRG Convener, Dr. Marindoti Oludare, a Nigeria-born medical practitioner based in the United States, specifically asked the federal government to institute an inquest into the expenditure of N7.3 bn, said to have generated furore, in the state.

     In the letter titled, “Investigation Request: Medical Coercion Concerns Surrounding Governor Akeredolu of Ondo State”, the SRG lamented what it termed as potential medical coercion and relegated governance issues being ignited by some political players.

     “This letter aims to urgently draw your (AG’s) attention to the concerning situation surrounding Governor Akeredolu of Ondo State, specifically focusing on potential medical coercion and related governance issues.

     “Governor Akeredolu’s legacy as a steadfast patriot is well-established. His tenure as President of the Nigerian Bar Association highlighted his commitment to upholding the constitution and ensuring the rule of law.

     “Moreover, his decisive action in establishing the Àmọ̀tẹ́kùn security outfit in Ondo State, in response to rising banditry threats, further cemented his reputation as a leader devoted to the safety and well-being of his people,” Oludare cited in the missive.

     Oludare, an indigene of Ondo State, lamented recent events in the Southwest state, particularly about Governor Akeredolu’s health and serious questions about potential medical coercion  by politicians

     He added, “Medical coercion refers to the practice of influencing or forcing an individual to make decisions detrimental to their health or against medical advice.

     “This is a matter of grave concern, as it can severely impact an individual’s decision-making capacity and overall governance.

    Read Also: 17 years after, lack of census has created information vacuum for Nigeria – NPC

     “Specifically, there are alarming reports about Governor Akeredolu’s involvement in the expenditure of 7.3 billion Naira and the appointment of 33 LCDA Chairmen and 18 caretaker chairmen for local government areas, all when he should have been prioritising his health.

     “Given Governor Akeredolu’s history of patriotic service, it is imperative that we ensure his decisions are made freely and in his best health interest.

     “The position of Governor Akeredolu regarding an indisposed Chief Executive is known as evidenced by his statement when the Late President Umar Musa Yar’adua was ill and away.

     Oludare also frowned on the appointment of 33 Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen and 18 caretaker chairmen for local government areas, all during a time when Akeredolu was indisposed.

     He nonetheless called on the AG to among others, “investigate the nature of Governor Akeredolu’s return from medical treatment in Germany and the choice to stay back in Ibadan-whether it was a discharge against medical advice (DAMA) or under doctor’s instructions.

     He also said the AG should “scrutinise the recent significant financial transactions and appointments made by the Governor, particularly regarding the 7.3 billion Naira expenditure and the appointed officials (and) assess any evidence of medical coercion or undue influence impacting Governor Akeredolu’s decision-making and governance abilities.

  • Ondo lawmaker bags ‘Knight of World Peace’ award

    Ondo lawmaker bags ‘Knight of World Peace’ award

    The lawmaker representing Ondo East/West constituency at the Federal House of Representatives Hon. Abiola Makinde has been honoured with the ‘Knight of World Peace’ by the World Peace institute.

    The lawmaker was honoured with the new status in Abuja with the symbolic presentation carried out by Lieutenant General Lamidi Adeosun (Rtd) CFR.

    Makinde, who is the Chairman, House Committee on Human Rights, thanked the World Peace Institute, assuring them of his continued commitment to the course of humanity. 

    He said: “I am deeply honoured to receive the prestigious title of Knight of World Peace from the World Peace Institute, this recognition is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the collective efforts of individuals and organisations striving for a harmonious world.”

    “I extend my gratitude to the institute for acknowledging the importance of fostering global unity and understanding.

    Read Also: Ondo dismisses court order compelling Assembly to constitute panel on Akeredolu’s health

    “As a Knight of World Peace, I pledge to continue advocating diplomacy, empathy, and cooperation on the international stage. “Together, let us work towards building bridges that transcend borders, promoting dialogue that resolves conflicts, and embracing diversity as a source of strength.”

    “This honour serves as a reminder that each of us has a role to play in shaping a future where peace prevails, and I am committed to fulfilling that responsibility with unwavering dedication,” Makinde noted.”

    Others awardees include the Olowu of Owu-Kuta, Oba Hameed Makama Oyelude and Emir of Zazzau (the Emir of Zaria), Mallam Nuhu Bamali, among others.

  • PDP, APC bicker over defection in Ondo

    PDP, APC bicker over defection in Ondo

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, on Wednesday, December 6, exchanged words over the defection of members to either of the political parties.

    Ondo PDP chairman, Hon Fatai Adams, at a press briefing, said medical reports since May 29, 2023, showed the rate at which people die in the state increased by 25%.

    Adams said the increment was a confirmation of the trauma that plagued the state and other parts of the country.

    He accused the Ondo APC chairman, Ade Adetimehin, of denigrating the PDP, adding that the declaration by Adetimehin that seven members of the State Working Committee of PDP would decamp to the APC did not materialise.

    He noted: “Much as we admit that we lost some members to APC, we need to let Adetimehin know that his incongruous tact and managerial ability have since made many of those who joined APC with fanfare return quietly to the PDP, at the appropriate time, we will celebrate their return.

    “We however put Adetimehin and his Party on notice that henceforth, every act of misdemeanor by him will be challenged with dispatch.”

    Adetimehin, in a statement, however, challenged Adams to provide names of the PDP defectors that have supposedly returned.

    He said it was essential to substantiate such claims with concrete evidence rather than making sweeping statements without any factual basis.

    Read Also: PDP: governor must transmit power to Aiyedatiwa

    He stated: “I also questioned why these alleged returnees would choose to come back quietly. If indeed there were individuals who had left the APC and decided to return, it is natural to expect that they would do so openly and proudly. The insinuation made by the PDP Chairman raises doubts about the credibility of his statements and suggests a lack of understanding regarding the dynamics and unity within our party, APC.

    “Contrary to Mr. Adams’ assertions, the APC in the state remains a formidable force in Ondo State and beyond. We are a party united under the able leadership of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu. Our ranks are unbreakable, and we stand together as a cohesive unit, working tirelessly for the betterment of our state and its people.

    “I reiterate that the APC is the party to beat, both in Ondo State and at the national level. Our track record of achievements and the unwavering commitment of our members speak volumes about our strength and resilience. It is clear that the PDP Chairman has lost grip of his own party, and his attempt to cast aspersions on me and our party is a desperate ploy to deflect attention from his own party’s shortcomings.”

  • Cash crunch hits Ondo, Edo, Kwara, Delta, Plateau, Jigawa, Osun

    Cash crunch hits Ondo, Edo, Kwara, Delta, Plateau, Jigawa, Osun

    • CBN blames uneven cash flow, huge withdrawal ahead festivities

    Some states are experiencing cash crunch as the Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) no longer dispense money and banks ration cash withdrawal Over The Counter (OTC) by depositors.

    The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) blamed the situation on ‘uneven cash flow and huge withdrawal by depositors ahead of the festivities.

    Many Nigerians in some of the states already hit by the cash crunch expressed frustrations in accessing cash.

    Some of the states already hit by the cash crunch, with commercial and other business activities experiencing some hitches, include Ondo, Edo, Kwara, Delta, Plateau, Jigawa and Osun among others.

    In Plateau State, commercial banks were experiencing acute scarcity of cash, development that took a toll on business activities.

    The Nation learnt that banks rationed cash to customers OTC in the banking hall. The ATMs were programmed to dispense limited cash. The queues were long.

    Read Also; ECOWAS Court orders Benin Republic to pay Igboho CFA 20m for unlawful detention

    In some of the banks within the Jos metropolis, only few ATMs dispensed cash. The others were deactivated because they were not loaded with cash.

    The situation was, however, different in Katsina, the capital of Katsina State and other urban towns, where businesses continued without glitches.

    The N1000 and N500 notes were in circulation,

    In Dutse, Jigawa State, customers making bulk withdrawals from their banks had harrowing tales as commercial banks in the state cut the amount of cash paid they gave to their customers to a maximum of N20, 000.

    Residents of Ilorin and environs in Kwara State were also hit by the cash crunch due to failure of commercial banks to load their ATMs with cash.

    Investigations by our correspondent revealed that some of the banks within the Ilorin metropolis that had cash in their ATMs pegged the amount collectable at between N5000 and N10, 000.  OTC withdrawals ranged between N10, 000 and N50, 000.

    Residents of Warri, Effurun and environs in Delta State, also expressed concerns over the stress they went through to access cash.

    It was learnt that the cash squeeze in these areas had been on for over a month, arising from the failure of banks to facilitate adequate cash withdrawals.

    A PoS operator at the popular Robinson Plaza, off Deco Road, Warri South Local Government Area, said several operators had resorted to buying cash from traders to keep doing their businesses because banks have been issuing little or no cash.

    In Akure, the Ondo State capital, residents found it difficult accessing their money in commercial banks in the state. OTC maximum withdrawal was N20, 000.

    There were no cash available in many ATMs visited in Akure. The few ones that dispensed cash could only get N20, 000

    Osun State residents also groaned as PoS agents hiked withdrawal charges by 50 per cent.

    Bank customers in Benin, Edo State also groan over the cash crunch.

    Our reporter gathered yesterday in Benin that most of the crowded banks paid only N10, 000 to customers OTC.  In Lagos State, banks commenced cash rationing for customers as the lenders contended with scarcity of both old and new naira notes.

    Cash rationing had worsened in the past few days as customers found it difficult to access the required volume of cash for their daily expenditure.

    Customers of some commercial banks in Ajose Adeogun, Victoria Island, Lagos branches of banks complained that lenders were not meeting their cash needs.

    Customers could only make N10, 000 cash withdrawals from ATMs and N20, 000 from the banking halls of banks’ branches.

    But in Anambra, Ogun, Bayelsa, Niger, Akwa-Ibom and Benue states, banks attended to customers without conditions.

    Reacting to the cash crunch, the CBN put the blame on the doorstep of customers’ withdrawal patterns and the Supreme Court ruling.

    Speaking to The Nation, a CBN official from the Currency Operations Department, explained that the current situation was primarily driven by two key factors namely, the uneven cash flow dynamics and the uncertainty over old naira notes.

    According to the official, “during the festive season, individuals and businesses tend to withdraw large sums of money for holiday expenses, placing a strain on the banking system’s ability to meet the surging demand for cash.”

    He said those rushing to have access to cash were still unaware of the latest Supreme Court verdict that the old and new notes remain legal tender indefinitely.

    The CBN official said the apex bank was working closely with commercial banks to ensure adequate cash circulation.

    He urged the public to play their part by depositing more money and utilising digital payment options.

  • Tinubu, Ondo impasse and resolutions

    Tinubu, Ondo impasse and resolutions

    Ondo State cannot afford to be at war with itself, writes Jimoh Ibrahim

    The events in Ondo State will soon play out the thesis that liberalism is for absolute peace for the security of humanity. It is needless to engage in war for the peace of the state, and the realist that triggers war in Ondo State must be ready for collaboration and cooperation as President Tinubu posited; in any event, difficult times don’t last long. Ondo State cannot afford to be at war with itself. Regrettably, the realists at the centre of power accumulation in Ondo State are epiphenomena. We know their master, and it is in the democratic peace arena that we shall be engaging their power by democratic votes! They may get no votes in the reality of a democratic election measurable to the power they need now. Otherwise, they should challenge Aketi in a new election and become the Governor!! President Tinubu took power even when the maximum ruler and the head of the realists in Daura kept petrol and currency from 200 million people! President Tinubu was sure of himself as a liberal democrat.

    Read Also: Cash crunch hits Akure

    Let us not forget that “politics is a power struggle.” Even in the most hospitable circumstances, the human condition is precarious because we are all unavoidably exposed. Yes, as Hobbes in ‘States of Nature,’ every human being is a potential threat because the struggle for survival in a world of limited resources is a ‘war of all against all.’ Hobbes thought that putting a government in place is an excellent way of guaranteeing security! In a world without a government to enforce order – a condition that Hobbes calls the state of nature – every human must be vigilant against threats to survival. A world without Government, he claims, forces humanity into a constant state of war because there is no way to trust in the excellent or peaceful intentions of others. We must always be on our guard lest we be attacked. This condition – in which no ruler or judge can resolve disputes and establish security – is anarchy. In a lawless world, Hobbes argues that our lives must revolve around survival, leaving no time for agriculture, the arts, or sciences conditions of anarchy; Hobbes says, ‘the life of man [is] solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short”.

    As I replied to Hobbes in my PhD War thesis, it is also the case that the Hobbesian phenomenon underscores man’s aggressiveness in the state of nature that requires the leviathan’s intervention. In the face of the Buhari government, Boko Haram created a condition in the Northeast that makes the life of man [is] solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short”—a celebration of the leviathan’s failure.

    Aketi case is not that of abuse of power as we saw in Darfur, where Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir was charged by the International Criminal Court (ICC) with war crimes against humanity. There is a Government in Ondo State. Aketi is not the Government but the Head of that Government. We have never had issues with the apparatus of Government and Governance (apologies to the sociologists). Aketi will be back, and this time shall pass!

    • Ibrahim PhD (Cantab), CFR, is a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

  • Lebi: a quest for driver’s seat in Ondo

    Lebi: a quest for driver’s seat in Ondo

    • By Kehinde Bello

    While the Ondo State Gubernatorial election is less than 10 months ahead but lull in the political activities and the uneasy calmness in the land has become a major concern that called for critical attention.

    Unlike what obtained in Edo States where the political atmosphere is already charged with frenzies of various strategic maneuverings and adopting other counter moves by the aspirants gingered towards popularizing and strengthening their brand’s support base.

    The reverse is the case in Ondo State which was alluded to the present state of health of the Executive Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as the reason for the lull and the slow pace of activities as the political climate remains moody and uncertain.

    And despite the recent intervention of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the national leadership of the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) on the imbroglio between the Deputy Governor, Honourable Lucky Ayedatiwa, some cabinet members and the Members of the State House of Assembly the situation remains stagnant.

    Though this intervention has received widespread commendations from some quarters applauding the maturity adopted by the APC leaders to achieve a peaceful resolution over the unending five-month crisis, this is not the same with the opposition.

    The opposition has been throwing tantrums and negatively attacking the leaders of the APC in Abuja alleging them of tinkering with the people’s feelings by meddling with the affairs of an independent federating entity.

    But many political watchers and analysts have described the uncertainty that enveloped Ondo State Political atmosphere as a dangerous signal ahead of the 2024 guber poll that needed critical attention based on the past political antecedents of the state.
    The intervention that was supposed to ignite political excitement and razzmatazz rather it had eventually further deepened the political apathy towards the 2024 poll.

    However, taking a cursory look from the historical perspective dated back to the days of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to the birth of APC, the Ondo State people have distinguished themselves into political albatross resisting all forms of impostors or impositions.

    And over the years the Ondo State democratic-minded politicians have constantly maintained and proven to be driven by their strong passion for progressive ideology and have continued to sacrifice or stake out their necks to defend and uphold their political integrity.

    An overview of the present political situation in the state has clearly shown that the political radar and compass are already pointing Southward meaning the Southern Senatorial District as the most favoured to produce the next governor.

    This can be ascertained by the legions of gubernatorial aspirants springing up from the Southern Senatorial District that has already signified their intentions to fly APC party ticket and the body language of political leaders from other zones.

    The fact behind this is not farfetched from a common clause concerning that “unwritten rotational agreement” amongst the three Ondo State Senatorial Districts.

    And currently in Ondo State, it is like a reenactment of that popular Tinubu 2023 Campaign slogan, “Emi lokan”, “It is my turn” which is a new version coined by the Southern Politicians as “Awa l’okan” literally meaning, “it is our turn” that has now dominated Ondo State political airwaves.

    Periscoping into the Southern Senatorial District since the APC Compass is already directed Southward, then it must navigate to locate Barrister Moráyò Lebi.

    Taking cognizance of the “Awalokan” maxim and the mantra of the able and able that out of the legion of Aspirants that has shown keen interest in the guber race, Barr. Moráyò Lebi’ remains the most eligible to be the next governor of Ondo State.

    If past antecedent and demonstrable courageous dispositions should be the major yardsticks and criteria to pick the party ticket this is the best moment to compensate Lébí as the “Most Persecuted Politician” from Ondo South.

    Though Lébí has not only distinguished himself as a brilliant, stable and balanced democrat of the highest repute but also as a consummate party loyalist.

    Apart from his intimidating but convincing corporate attainments, Lébí is a cosmopolitan lawyer with over 30 years of successful robust practice.

    It is on record that Lébí has been a major financier of the Progressives Politics from ACN to the formation and sustenance of APC in the Southern Senatorial Districts.

    It is also a known fact that amongst all the Aspirants, Lébí has a history of longest, unbroken trust, mutual, and cordial relations with the APC Progressive leadership cadre.

    Read Also: Ondo games masters undergo training in netball

    While the national leadership can boldly attest to this fact that despite all persecutions melted to Lébí, he has been unwavering and resolutely committed to the sustainability of the party in the Southern Senatorial Districts and Ondo State with all his resources.

    Lébí has risked his life and survived various attacks playing dangerous routes than any politician from the Southern zone for his political involvement in leading the emancipation struggle in the District.

    In conclusion, I believe if the party leaders are genuinely committed to fairness, justice, and equity the real Progressives must be fully compensated for their steadfastness in 2024.

    Some politicians are favoured by political alignment, some by timing others by zoning but Lébí is most favoured by God to fly APC Ondo 2024 ticket to victory.

    • Bello, an activist, writes from, Ehin-Ogbe, Owo, Ondo State.*

  • Ondo games masters undergo training in netball

    Ondo games masters undergo training in netball

    No fewer than 36 games masters and mistresses in Odo State recently underwent a two-day netball training event at the Indoor Sports Hall of the Akure Sport Complex.’

    The Netball training was organised by the Ondo State Ministry of Education Science and Technology in collaboration with Blitzik Sports and CSED (Community Sport and Educational Development) Initiative with game masters and mistresses from various public and private schools, and some staff of the Ondo State Sports Council, as well as some secondary school students in attendance.

    The attendees were taught the theoretical aspect of netball as well as the practical aspect of the game by coaches Edema Fuludu and Onome Fuludu.

    Speaking on the initiative, Edema, a former Nigeria international footballer , said the training was part of the NGOs effort in developing and empowering Nigerian children and youths, especially the girl child to play netball and further spread the awareness of the game to one million Nigerian school girls before the end of 2027.

    He said: “The practical aspect of the training covered the areas of basic warming up drills, ball handling, passing, shooting and positioning of the players in the netball court.

    Read Also: AFFAN unveils first netball court in Nigeria

    “The attendees were also taught how to mark the netball court, as well as the importance of the safeguarding of students who take part in netball in the school CSED Initiative) for holding the training event in Ondo State even as he urged the teachers to make good use of the netball equipment given to them in developing the talents of the students in their schools and local community.

    “At the end of the event, netball training kits/equipment which includes netball rims/nets, finger held whistles, sets of netball training bibs, as well as netball balls were freely distributed to the games masters and mistresses for use in their various schools.”

    The Director of Ondo State Sports Council and a Director in the Ondo State Ministry of Education Science and Technology, Jide Fawolu thanked the two NGOs (Blitzik Sports and CSED Initiative) for holding the training event in Ondo State even as he urged the teachers to make good use of the netball equipment given to them in developing the talents of the students in their schools.