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  • Osun lawmaker donates food items, N5m to constituents

    Osun lawmaker donates food items, N5m to constituents

    • …artisans get motorcycles, others

    The Deputy Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Akinyode Oyewusi, has donated 120 bags of rice, N5 million, motorcycles, freezers, a 3.5KVA generator set, and other items to residents of Ife North State Constituency for the celebration of the New Year. 

    Artisans and youths of the constituency received 30 Bajaj motorcycles, 20 deep freezers and 20 generators, and a start-up grant. 

    A statement personally signed by the lawmaker, which was made available to newsmen, explained that the gesture was aimed at spreading love during the festive season, boosting economic growth in 2026, and cushioning the effects of hardship in the local government area of the state. 

    He said that the gesture was motivated by the love he has for his people to promote unity and peaceful coexistence.

    He said, “120 chickens, 100 bags of rice, and a cash support totalling ₦5 million were distributed. Earlier today, we distributed 30 Bajaj motorcycles, 20 deep freezers and 20 generators, among other items, to artisans, traders, and small-scale entrepreneurs, in a bid to strengthen livelihoods and boost productivity at the grassroots.

    “Members of the Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN) who are elderly and vulnerable were included in the gesture to ease the festive burden on families across the constituency.”

    The representative of CAN, Pastor John Oluwasanjo, lauded the Deputy Speaker over the gesture, describing the initiative as a true reflection of love and sacrifice.

    “This gesture captures the essence of Christmas—love, sacrifice, and care for humanity. We sincerely appreciate the Deputy Speaker for standing with the people and promoting unity across the constituency.”

    Also commending the initiative, Alhaji Ismail Adeyemi, a respected Muslim community leader, noted that the gesture transcends religious boundaries.

  • Osun lawmaker Irekandu distributes free NECO forms to 45 students in Obokun constituency

    Osun lawmaker Irekandu distributes free NECO forms to 45 students in Obokun constituency

    Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi, popularly known as Irekandu and representing Obokun State Constituency in Osun State, has distributed free National Examinations Council (NECO) forms to 45 students in his constituency.

    The initiative was announced in a statement released by his media team on Tuesday, June 10.

    The gesture followed his earlier scholarship programme that benefited over 100 out-of-school children in the constituency, underscoring his ongoing commitment to educational development.

    Speaking during the distribution, Hon. Adeyemi said the initiative was aimed at promoting education and empowering young people.

    He acknowledged the economic hardship facing many families, noting that the free NECO forms would help ease the financial burden and enhance access to quality education.

    “Education remains my top priority. I will continue to do my best for our people,” he pledged.

    Read Also:2027: Anti-Tinubu coalition a platform for failed politicians — Ex-Osun lawmaker

    One of the beneficiaries, Adekunle Tosin, expressed gratitude to the lawmaker, revealing that her parents had already resigned to the fact that she would miss this year’s NECO examination due to a lack of funds.

    “But when we heard about the promotional test to select beneficiaries, I was hopeful. I prepared well and, luckily, I was chosen,” she said.

    Parents and students who benefited from the scheme lauded Hon. Adeyemi’s support, describing him as a compassionate legislator who understands the struggles of the poor and values the role of education in transforming lives.

  • Osun lawmaker Irekandu reflects on first-year achievements, emphasizes focus on education, empowerment

    Osun lawmaker Irekandu reflects on first-year achievements, emphasizes focus on education, empowerment

    Adewumi Adeyemi, widely known as Irekandu, is a member of the Osun State House of Assembly representing the Obokun State Constituency. In this interview, he reflects on his work as a lawmaker and his efforts to empower his constituents.

    Hon. Irekandu, who marked one year in office in June, proudly reflects on the strides made, especially in education.

    He said: “Education is the tool to eradicate poverty in Nigeria”, highlighting his efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children in his constituency.

    One initiative close to his heart is the scholarship scheme, which has already benefitted over 70 children.

    The lawmaker shared a touching encounter with a young boy who was forced to hawk instead of attending school.

    “I met him shortly after the election, realized his potential, and decided we had to help,” Irekandu explained. Such stories exemplify his commitment to transforming lives through education.

    Beyond supporting young students, Irekandu has also facilitated the NECO Scholarship Scheme, assisting more than 40 final-year students with their examination fees.

    “We focus on both formal and informal education,” he notes, mentioning that over 600 women have been trained in entrepreneurship in collaboration with the Enterprise Development Center at Pan Africa University. This initiative not only imparts business skills but also provides access to funding and advertising support.

    Tackling infrastructure and economic challenges

    On the infrastructure front, Hon. Irekandu has made significant strides, particularly with the ongoing Irekandu Water Scheme and addressing the long-standing electricity issues in Obokun.

    “We’ve struggled with electricity for years,” he shares, citing the recent approval of a 33 KVA transformer as a breakthrough.

    Additionally, a cooperative society for women in the Obokun constituency is set to launch soon. “This interest-free initiative will revolve the funds among the trained women, empowering them to build sustainable businesses,” he added.

    The project aligns with Irekandu’s broader goal of reducing poverty and fostering economic independence among his constituents.

    A lawmaker with a heart for the vulnerable

    Irekandu’s compassion extends to vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly, widows, and people with disabilities. His food support scheme, spearheaded by his wife, periodically provides essential food items to those in need.

    The lawmaker’s “New Gen Leadership” project also stands out, aimed at mentoring young aspiring leaders. “I believe one of society’s biggest problems is leadership,” he explains, offering his guidance to help the next generation navigate governance and leadership challenges.

    A champion for disability rights

    One of Hon. Irekandu’s proudest achievements is the passage of the Disability Bill into law. The bill, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, was initially submitted in the 7th Assembly and finally passed in the 8th. “It’s a fantastic bill,” he remarks, emphasizing that individuals with disabilities deserve to benefit from democracy just like everyone else.

    The law mandates free education and healthcare for people with disabilities in Osun State. It also ensures their inclusion in job opportunities and addresses accessibility issues in public buildings. “We’re giving every building a timeframe to become accessible,” he adds, underscoring the bill’s wide-reaching impact.

    Reflecting on this journey, Irekandu expresses gratitude to the Speaker of the Osun House of Assembly and the state’s governor for their unwavering support in turning this bill into law.

    With numerous achievements already under his belt and more projects on the horizon, Hon. Irekandu’s commitment to the welfare of his constituents remains as strong as ever.

    Reflecting on a year in office: a journey of impact and progress

    Irekandu said: “In June, I celebrated the completion of the first year of my second term in office. Looking back, I can proudly say that many initiatives have come to fruition, benefiting the people of my constituency. Education, in particular, has been a focal point of my efforts because I believe it is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty in Nigeria.

    “One of the issues that caught my attention was the rising number of out-of-school children in the country. To tackle this, I initiated several projects aimed at reducing this number, starting within my constituency. So far, I’ve placed over 70 out-of-school students on scholarships, covering their school fees and other academic needs.

    “These students range from primary to secondary school levels. I remember meeting a young boy who was hawking on the streets when he should have been in school. After engaging him, I realized he needed our help. He was one of many we’ve been able to support, ensuring their education continues uninterrupted.

    He added: “Beyond scholarships, we’ve also assisted students in writing their final exams. Through our NECO Scholarship Scheme Support, an initiative under the Irekandu Back to School Project, we covered the WAEC and NECO fees for over 40 final-year secondary students.

    “Our impact on education doesn’t stop at formal learning. In collaboration with the Enterprise Development Center (EDC) at Pan African University, we’ve trained over 600 women in entrepreneurship. The training, conducted in three batches of 200, focused on helping women identify profitable business ventures.

    “We are not just equipping them with skills but also ensuring they have access to funds and business support. EDC has committed to providing financial support for these women and helping promote their businesses through free advertising.

    “In addition, we’ve established a cooperative society for women in my constituency, an interest-free initiative aimed at fostering economic empowerment. The fund, registered and ready for launch, will be entirely managed by the women who have gone through our training programs.

    The lawmaker stated: “When it comes to physical projects, we are making significant strides as well. The Irekandu Water Scheme is underway, and several renovations are being carried out in partnership with the Agency for Community and Social Development Project (CSDP). A major milestone for the constituency has been the approval of a 33 KVA transformer, a project that will address the persistent electricity issues we’ve faced for years. I personally wrote to the Ministry of Energy, and thanks to the compassion of the Governor, this project was approved and flagged off recently.

    “Additionally, we’ve continued our food support program, Irekandu Food Support, which my wife helps manage. This program targets vulnerable groups—persons with disabilities (PWDs), widows, and the elderly—to help alleviate the impact of hunger and poverty in our community.

    “Leadership has always been a core value for me, and I’ve extended my mentorship program, New Gen Leadership, beyond my constituency to the entire Osun State. Through this platform, I mentor young, aspiring leaders and share my personal experiences to guide them in their leadership journeys. It’s a platform for learning, sharing, and solving problems, all aimed at creating the leaders of tomorrow.”

    The journey of the disability bill

    He said: “One of my proudest accomplishments is the passage of the Disability Bill into law. The “Prohibition Against Discrimination of People Living with Disabilities (PWDs)” is one of the most important pieces of legislation I’ve worked on. It is crucial that everyone, including those with disabilities, who have the right to vote, should also have the right to benefit from the dividends of democracy.

    “This bill had its roots in the 7th Assembly, but for reasons unknown, it wasn’t considered. I reintroduced it in the 8th Assembly, and it was not only passed but also signed into law. It is now a criminal offence to discriminate against anyone living with disabilities, with severe penalties attached.

    “The idea for the bill was inspired by a young man with visual impairment who was introduced to me by a former commissioner for women’s affairs. Despite his challenges, he was a graduate of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) and a talented musician. The only thing he asked for was help in securing a job, which unfortunately I wasn’t able to provide at the time. His story made me realize that we needed a law to ensure that PWDs have access to opportunities, especially in employment.

    “Now, with the passage of the bill, PWDs are entitled to free education and healthcare in Osun State. Even before the bill was signed, the Governor mandated that all PWDs register for the state’s health insurance scheme, ensuring they benefit from free healthcare.

    The bill also protects the rights of employees living with disabilities. Employers are now required to retain workers who become disabled while working for them or provide adequate compensation if retaining them becomes impractical.

    Importantly, the bill includes provisions for making public buildings accessible to people with disabilities, with a set time frame for compliance. The joy and gratitude expressed by PWDs whenever we meet reaffirm that this bill is a significant step toward inclusivity and equality.

    This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Prince Adewale Olumide Egbedun, and the Governor, have shown unwavering interest in the bill from the start. I also extend my gratitude to the House Committee on Youth and Special Needs and all House members for their support.

    While this bill is now law, I continue to work on other bills and will keep pushing for legislation that benefits the people of Osun State.

    Assessment of President Tinubu’s performance and policy directions

    President Bola Tinubu’s administration is navigating a complex landscape marked by persistent challenges and evolving opportunities. His efforts to address inflation and hunger, two critical issues affecting millions of Nigerians, are being closely scrutinized.

    Inflation and hunger challenges

    Inflation and rising hunger are not new issues in Nigeria. For decades, these challenges have plagued the nation, with periodic fuel scarcities and price hikes becoming familiar features of the economic landscape. Protests and demands for better governance have been a constant, reflecting deep-seated frustrations with the state of public services and economic management.

    President Tinubu’s administration faces the daunting task of addressing these entrenched issues. The administration’s approach, including recent decisions on local government financial autonomy, reflects a strategic shift aimed at improving local governance and potentially easing economic burdens on citizens. The local government’s financial autonomy is a significant move, intended to empower local authorities to better address community needs and potentially mitigate some of the economic pressures faced by ordinary Nigerians.

    Local government autonomy and state reactions

    Local government autonomy is a pivotal reform that President Tinubu has championed. By granting financial independence to local governments, the administration aims to ensure that resources are more effectively distributed to the grassroots level, where they can have a more immediate impact. This reform is seen as crucial, given that local governments are closest to the people and can directly address community-specific issues.

    Read Also: Ex-Osun lawmaker urges Tinubu to prioritise blue economy

    However, not all states have embraced this change. For example, the Osun state government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, has contested the federal directive on local government elections. The state’s actions, including the notification of LG elections and adjustments to the number of local government areas, underscore a complex interplay between state and federal authorities. Governor Adeleke’s initiatives to conduct LG elections and complete existing projects suggest a commitment to democratic principles and local governance, even amidst federal and judicial disputes.

    Communication and leadership

    According to him, “Effective communication is a cornerstone of leadership, especially in times of economic distress. President Tinubu’s ability to connect with the populace and convey the administration’s strategies transparently is crucial. The current challenge is for the President to move beyond prepared statements and engage directly with citizens, sharing both the difficulties and the planned solutions. This approach can help build trust and manage expectations, offering a clearer picture of the administration’s efforts to combat inflation and hunger.

    Education as a solution to poverty

    He further stated: “Addressing poverty in Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach, with education playing a central role. Investing in both formal and technical education is essential to enhance productivity and economic development. Improving educational standards and ensuring that graduates possess relevant skills can significantly impact the nation’s ability to address poverty and drive economic growth. The focus should be on producing a skilled workforce capable of supporting and advancing various sectors, including agriculture and industry.

    Governor Adeleke’s performance in Osun State

    Urekandun noted: “Governor Ademola Adeleke’s performance in Osun State has been noted for its emphasis on infrastructure development. His administration’s efforts include road dualization, completion of abandoned projects, and investment in water infrastructure. These initiatives are critical for the state’s development and economic growth. The Governor’s approach to merit-based recruitment for teachers and his efforts to improve agricultural productivity are commendable and align with broader development goals.

    Challenges and criticisms

    Despite these achievements, there are criticisms and concerns, such as the alleged “Edenization” of resources and political influence in local developments. Ensuring that development is equitably distributed across the state and addressing perceptions of favouritism are important for maintaining public trust.

    Future priorities and personal commitments

    He said: “Looking ahead, the focus will be on continuing to build on existing programs and addressing emerging needs. Personal commitments to improving education, health, and food support, as well as pursuing new legislative initiatives, will be crucial in enhancing the quality of life for constituents and driving sustainable development.

    “In summary, President Tinubu’s administration faces significant challenges in addressing inflation and hunger. Effective communication, strategic reforms, and investment in education and infrastructure will be key to overcoming these issues and delivering on promises of improved governance and economic stability.”

  • Tourism an economic booster, says Osun lawmaker

    Tourism an economic booster, says Osun lawmaker

    A member of Osun State House of Assembly, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, representing Obokun State Constituency, has called on government at all levels to invest in tourism and culture to boost the economy and job creation.

    He made the call during the  Obokun Festival in Ibokun area of the state.The lawmaker noted that if proper attention was paid to tourism and culture, it would not only serve as alternative source of income, but also reinforce the fight against social vices.

    Oyintiloye, who is the House Committee Chairman on Information and Strategy, said the government’s investment in tourism and culture would result in job creation, such as  tour guide, horticulture, food services, entertainment industry, craft and arts productions and waste recycling.

    “It is now the prerogative of the government and Nigerians to tap into  these opportunities in the tourism sector”, the lawmaker said.

    Oyintiloye, who described‘ Ibokun festival‘, as a unique culture event, called on the state government to focus attention on it to serve as a source of revenue.

    The lawmaker,who noted that Obokun cultural value and tourism potential were enormous, called all stakeholders, including sons and daughters of Ibokun at home and in the Diaspora to contribute their quota towards its development.

    Oyintiloye, however, commended the state government for developing tourism master plan, which he said had a robust and globaloutlook.

    In her remarks, the Special Adviser to Govervor Rauf Aregbesola on Tourism, MrTaiwo Oluga, said the government was making frantic effort to make the festival a national as well as international festival.

    Oluga said the government was passionate about sustainable tourism development towards job and wealth creation.

    The Oba Ibokun of Ibokun, Oba Festus Awogboro, urged the government to encourage the Obokun festival and other  festivals  in the state, adding that  they are sources of revenue generation for it.

    The  Obokun festival is one of the traditional festivals being celebrated among the Yoruba people, but peculiar to the people of Ibokun. It is believed that among the people of the ancient town that the celebration was in remembrance of its founding father,

    Obokun, ‘who was considered a brave warrior and a hero having fought a war and liberated the town from externalforces. The festive period was also considered a period of appeasement to the goddess.

  • Social Investment Programmes, will stimulate economy, say Osun lawmaker

    Social Investment Programmes, will stimulate economy, say Osun lawmaker

    A lawmaker representing the Obokun Constituency in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye has described the commencement of the Federal Government Social Investment Programmes, which include Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT), school feeding, soft loan for artisan, traders and market women through Government Enterprise and Empowerment and N-power as a catalyst for the economy.
    Oyintiloye said the president lived up to its campaign promises as the implementation of the programmes will have direct impact in the lives of the common man and the most vulnerable.
    The lawmaker noted that the payment of N5, 000 monthly stipends to, one million Nigerians, the poorest and the most vulnerable in the country through the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) in the Social Investment Programmes, SIP as well as implementation of N-Power programme which will make many youths to be paid #30,000 respectively.
    Lauding the procedures for data collection and disbursement of the funds especially in the states, where the programmes had taken off, Oyintiloye said Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) – the platform that hosts and validates payments for all government’s social intervention programmes will boost the transparency of the process and openness of the Federal Government initiatives.
    Describing the injection of such funds into the economy as a boost to the social life of the beneficiary communities, families, individuals and by extension the nation at large, the parliament pointed that the initiative will have ripples effects on economic activities.

    He said: “These policies which will have multiplies effect on the life of Millions household will improve purchasing power and boost exchange of commodities”
    Oyintiloye, however, called for effective monitoring of the programmes in such a way that the goal to empower Nigerians and bring them out of economic doldrums will not be jeopardised.
    He urged other states that were yet to benefit from the programme to work with stakeholders and build a time-tested (Community-Based Targeting, CBT) Social Register that will identify the most vulnerable and poorest Nigerians so that they can be included in subsequent phases of the implementations of the programmes.

  • Osun lawmaker sponsors four bills

    Osun State House of Assembly has received four private member bills sponsored by one of its lawmakers, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, representing Obokun Constituency.

    The bills are: Cattle Trading and Grazing Bill 2016; Forestry, Natural and Mineral Resources Development Agency (Establishment) Bill 2016; Mandatory Usage of Standardised Measure and Weight Bill 2016; and Special People’s Bill 2016.

    At the plenary on Tuesday, Speaker Najeem Salaam informed members of the presentation of the bills and read their covering letters.

    According to the letter, the Cattle Trading and Grazing Bill 2016 was a bill to make provision for the regulation and granting of permit for cattle trading and grazing and the establishment of control posts.

    The bill, he said, when passed into law, would sanitise the business of cattle trading and grazing, prevent frequent clashes between cattle-rearers and farm owners, and bring in more revenue to the coffers.

    The Forestry, Natural and Mineral Resources Development Agency bill, the speaker said, would help to protect forestry, natural and mineral resources, as well as make the sub-sector attractive to investors, hence, generate employment opportunity for the citizenry and increase revenue generation.

    Salaam stressed that the Mandatory Usage of Standardised Measure and Weight Bill would reset the economy through promotion of equity and encourage stability and catalysed economic growth, boost confidence in trade and commerce in the state.

  • 100 days: Buhari is on track, says Osun lawmaker

    A MEMBER of the Osun State House of Assembly Olatunbosun Oyintiloye has described the activities of President Muhammadu Buhari government within his 100 days in office as a demonstration of his sincerity to return Nigeria to the path of progress.

    Oyintiloye, representing Obokun State Constituency, said the activities of the President have so far shown that he is not only meticulous and mature but full of insight.

    He said President Buhari intellectual and managerial wherewithal to take Nigeria to the Promised Land.

    Speaking at political meeting in Ibokun, the lawmaker said the input that has been made in the fight against insecurity, corruption, as well as economic developments were visible.

    According to the lawmaker, the President’s mien and steps have shown that insecurity can be subdued, corruption tamed, bad economy addressed and hope restored.

    He said: “The machinery that President Buhari has been able to set in motion to fight security challenges deserves applause of Nigerians. The area of note is the order for the relocation of Military Command Center to the Northeast, which is the theatre of the insurgency.

     

    “The goodwill established by the President in the diplomatic arena and willingness of the international community including the United States (U.S.) to cooperate with Nigeria in the area of economy, insecurity and corruption indicated the giant strides of the President Buhari-led administration.”

    Oyintiloye pointed out the template and tempo set by President Buhari in fighting corruption as another testimony that he has been on the right track, saying his body language alone has triggered a paradigm shift in the public service.

    The lawmaker said: “He has been able to harnessed resources through the single account remittance, which to a large extent had improved the revenue of the federal government and a proactive measure in curbing corruption.

    “Due to series of strategic intervention, more funds are coming to the federal government treasury and by extension deepening and developing the economy. For instance, the nation’s foreign reserve rose by 1.12 per cent in August from $31.08 billion to $31.43 billion which is a positive sign for the economy.”

    He said the repositioning of the refinery ?and the hiring of 10,000 more hands to strengthen the police cannot but steps taken in the right direction.

    “Nigerians can clearly see that the country is already moving in the right direction, it is now getting the deserved respect from the international community, our country is no longer a pariah state and it is crystal clear that the President is sincere, believable and focused”, he said.

    On the bailout for cash-strapped states, Oyintiloye said the presidential intervention will stimulate economic activities in the benefitting states.

    He dismissed those accusing the President of not recording any success within his first 100 days as being   economical with truth.

    “President Buhari is too mature and experienced to be stampeded to take rash and irrational decisions or continue in the old track of waste and inefficiency”, Oyintiloye said.