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  • Oyetola urges export policies change to boost insurance sector

    Oyetola urges export policies change to boost insurance sector

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has called for a change in Nigeria’s export policy to boost the insurance sector.

    The former governor of Osun State said there was a need for a shift from Free on Board (FOB) to Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms.

    The minister noted that the call for a change in policy aligned with the Federal Government’s interest in promoting local industries, particularly the insurance sector.

    Oyetola said this yesterday in Abuja during the 2024 National Insurance Brokers Conference and Exhibition, which had the theme “Insurance: The Untapped Goldmine.”

    The minister said that the country was losing substantial revenue in the insurance sector by relying on FOB for export transactions, which excludes insurance and freight costs from being managed locally.

    He said: “One area we need to really focus on is ensuring that our export tools are based on CIF, not FOB. We are losing so much in the area of insurance, and this is something the government can help address.

    “By adopting CIF, exporters would be mandated to handle insurance domestically, potentially driving growth within the sector.”

    He stressed that this shift requires aggressive marketing and a strong government mandate.

    “The government is interested in promoting insurance. Having an insurance expert call it a sabbatical is symbolic—I’m still part of this association, and that is why I’m here,” he added.

    Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Olusegun Omosehin, said that Nigeria’s insurance sector remained largely underutilised with a penetration rate below one per cent despite its vast potential to drive economic growth.

    Read Also: Oyetola will contest, win Osun 2026 governorship election—Ex-lawmaker

    Omosehin highlighted the importance of insurance in supporting economic stability worldwide and Nigeria’s need to harness this potential through strategic planning and initiatives.

    He also commended the participants for their commitment to innovation within the sector.

    Omosehin pointed out that opportunities for growth, particularly in agriculture and health, are significant.

    “Technology, digital platforms, and customer-centric innovations are seen as key drivers for transforming the insurance landscape,” he stated.

    He praised NAICOM for its strategic reforms, including the establishment of a directorate focused on innovation and regulation, demonstrating its readiness to promote growth in the industry.

    He urged operators to improve claim settlements and resolve intercompany balances.

    He reaffirmed NAICOM’s commitment to supporting the conference’s outcomes, calling on stakeholders to collaborate and develop innovative solutions that will shape the future of Nigeria’s insurance industry.

    President of Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers NCRIB (NCRIB), Babatunde Oguntade, reiterated the need to take full advantage of existing and emerging markets, which have been underexplored.

    “A notable example is the CIF model, where Nigeria continues to lose significant revenue due to improper handling,” Oguntade said.

    Oguntade noted that the push to expand agricultural and motor insurance services has been slow, with many consumers settling for basic statutory coverage and neglecting more comprehensive insurance plans.

    He added: “The issue of illegal insurance practices by financial mandates was also raised, though the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA) has made strides in combating this with the establishment of a new platform aimed at improving transparency among underwriters.”

    Oguntade stated that the industry’s goal was to increase its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 0.3% to 1% by next year, saying that the target was attainable with collaboration and strategic development.

    He said the insurance sector was poised to take on these challenges and explore new growth opportunities, aiming for a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

    The President, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), Yetunde Ilori said there was a need to identify and address overlooked opportunities.

    “Instead of solely concentrating on the issues that have hindered our progress, we must ask why they haven’t worked and seek solutions,” she stated.

    The conference focused on challenges such as limited access to insurance in rural areas and the industry’s reputational issues.

  • Oyetola @70: How to celebrate birthday

    Oyetola @70: How to celebrate birthday

    Kola Odepeju

    Birthdays are a special day in the life of each and every individual. From time immemorial, people attach so much importance to it. This is because a person can only be born once. No matter what form its celebration takes; whether big or low-key, birthdays don’t ever go uncelebrated or unremembered. Depending on the individual’s pocket, state of wealth, and social or political standing in society birthday boys and girls are always in a joyful and celebratory mood on their born days.

    No matter the negative condition they might find themselves on this day – whether they’re poor, in a sick bed, or prison – they still see reason/s for which they should thank the Creator. This is because as the saying goes “When there’s life, there’s hope”. It’s only a dead person that has no hope again. Thus in light of this reality birthday celebrators are often inclined to forget the past, and look forward to the future with the belief that the best is yet to come to them.

    For poor people, their birthdays are hardly known to others outside their immediate families since they lack the means to engage in elaborate celebrations. So for them, it’s usually “se bi o ti mo” (cut your coat according to your clothes) like the Yoruba do say. Much as many of them might love to celebrate their days in a grandiose way, they lack the financial wherewithal to do so.

    For the wealthy ones and wielders of power in society, however, their birthdays are usually a noisy day; a day to roll out the drums and get the heaven and earth informed. It needs to be mentioned that even if they are not interested in any elaborate celebration, their friends and associates and beneficiaries of their kind gestures in the past, who have now become big boys and girls in society do take it upon themselves to foot the bills of big celebrations for the celebrant. They expand it and make enough noise on behalf of the celebrator.

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    It’s instructive to mention that there are some certain numbers that people who have the means attach so much importance to; such that even if they don’t celebrate other years in big form, they cannot afford not to celebrate in grand style on certain numbers they consider more important than others in life journey. These are age 25 (Silver), age 40 (ruby), age 50 (Golden), age 60 (Diamond), age 70 (platinum) etcetera. But it’s also worth mentioning that some wealthy and powerful individuals with a simple outlook on life still prefer to engage in mild celebrations on their days irrespective of the pressure on them from their friends and associates. Some also prefer to use the occasion of their days to reach out to the underprivileged in society.

    This set of people shun wasting money on throwing parties and engaging in frivolous spending in the name of having a birthday. They prefer to touch lives in more positive and impactful ways by putting smiles on the faces of the vulnerable individuals in their societies. They identify with the downtrodden by showing compassion on them and by this, they engrain their names in the minds of these vulnerable people.

    This writer is a staunch admirer of this category of people due to their kindness. For, making other people happy; especially the less privileged in the society is the only thing that’s worth living for. When you make others happy, happiness gravitates toward you too, and uses your mind and abode as its habitats. Thus in the words of Dalai Lama (1935); “When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace”.

    For this writer, the aforementioned category of wealthy people who use the occasions of their birthdays to embark on humanitarian deeds rather than following the multitude to engage in business as usual deserves not only to be commended but to be emulated. *It’s therefore in the light of this that this writer like to give kudos to the immediate past governor of Osun state and current minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Isiaq Adegboyega Oyetola who recently celebrated his 70th birthday in an impactful way by remembering the less privileged in Osun state through provision of free medical treatment and gifting food items to them.

    Of course, Oyetola’s simple lifestyle and gravitas are the main reasons why he’s highly revered by many. To state here that he’s a principled man and a man of integrity to the core is a statement of fact that even his arch-detractors cannot dispute; except one who wants to live in denial. It’s on record that his four years as the governor in Osun was characterized by untainted integrity and credible performance. Never would Oyetola compromise his integrity for anything. This singles him out as a leader that’s worth following and emulating. *For Oyetola “the dignity of a man is an ideal that’s worth pursuing and worth dying for”, as the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi of blessed memory once quipped.

    As this cerebral, compassionate, and unassuming leader and brother climbs the septuagenarian ladder, it’s the pleasure of this writer to identify with him on his platinum birthday as l wish him more productive, impactful, and peaceful years on the shore of earth. May Almighty Allah spare your life with good health and more uplift so as to be able to serve humanity better than ever!

    Aameen!

    Odepeju, newspaper columnist and political activist, writes from Lagos.

  • Oyetola urges investors to tap marine sector potential

    Oyetola urges investors to tap marine sector potential

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on the private sector and other investors to tap into the potential in the marine and blue economy sector.

    The Minister, while stating the need for investor involvement, said there are numerous government-led initiatives aimed at promoting businesses in the Marine and Blue Economy sectors.

    He noted that the sector has the potential to contribute to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and create jobs through the establishment of major small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade.

    Oyetola disclosed this in Abuja yesterday at the Broad-Based National Stakeholders’ final Validation Workshop for the Draft National Blue Economy Strategy for Nigeria.

    He said: “I encourage the private sector and investors to seize the opportunities presented by numerous government-led programmes and initiatives aimed at promoting business in the Marine and Blue Economy sectors.

    “If you check our performance so far, you will discover that we have been able to increase our revenue by exploring all the potentials in the sector. So, having a very good framework would further give stakeholders in the sector opportunities to harness the potentials in the sector”.

    He added that the establishment of the ministry signifies Nigeria’s firm commitment to sustainably harnessing its vast marine and aquatic resources.

    Read Also: Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    He said: “Our focus includes boosting blue food production, creating jobs, building climate-resilient coastal communities, and ensuring prosperity and security for future generations. Nigeria is blessed with a vast coastline and diverse marine resources, with significant potential in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, marine transport, maritime security, renewable energy, and mineral resources.

    “Nigeria is embarking on an ambitious plan to upscale its blue economy through a diverse range of Initiatives. This initiative aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, by midwifing the establishment of quantum numbers of small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade in the sector to create jobs.

    “We are aligning with Blue Belt Initiative, which is the sustainable use of our ocean resources to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods while preserving ocean ecosystems.”

    Oyetola said the National Blue Economy Strategy to be developed represents Nigeria’s vision for a sustainable blue economy, adding that it would help shape actionable policies and frameworks for sustainable ocean and marine resource management.

    He thanked the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway for their support toward the development of Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy document.

    The Representative of the African Union (AU), Georges Mba Asseko, said Nigeria has the potential to be amongst the global key players in the marine and blue economy sector.

    He said Nigeria could be one of the leading countries globally in marine and blue economy sector if it works with other relevant stakeholders in the sector rather than working in isolation.

    He said: “AU is leading a process to help countries to domesticate the African Blue Economy strategy into national policies. In Africa, we have aquatic resources that have not been exploited.

    “When you look at the traditional sectors like fisheries, maritime transport, environment and tourism, you would discover that Africa is nowhere globally. So, there is room to develop those sectors that we already think that we are in, but we are not playing the game properly.

    “When you go to fisheries, where is Nigeria in the global arena of fisheries in the world? Nigeria should be leading because of its abundant resources. The major problem in Africa is that different sectors work in isolation. The fishery is working alone, and it does not think about transport or environment sector. We need to break that idea and work together and certainly become the key players in the global arena.”

  • Oyetola calls on investors to tap potential in marine sector

    Oyetola calls on investors to tap potential in marine sector

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on the private sector and other investors to tap into the potential in the marine and blue economy sector.

    The Minister, while stating the need for investor involvement, said there are numerous government-led initiatives aimed at promoting businesses in the Marine and Blue Economy sectors.

    He noted that the sector has the potential to contribute to the country’s GDP and create jobs through the establishment of major small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade.

    Oyetola disclosed this in Abuja on Monday, October 14, at the Broad-Based National Stakeholders’ final Validation Workshop for the Draft National Blue Economy Strategy for Nigeria.

    He said: “I encourage the private sector and investors to seize the opportunities presented by numerous government-led programmes and initiatives aimed at promoting business in the Marine and Blue Economy sectors.

    “If you check our performance so far, you will discover that we have been able to increase our revenue by exploring all the potentials in the sector. So, having a very good framework would further give stakeholders in the sector opportunities to harness the potentials in the sector.”

    He added that the establishment of the ministry signifies Nigeria’s firm commitment to sustainably harnessing its vast marine and aquatic resources.

    He said: “Our focus includes boosting blue food production, creating jobs, building climate-resilient coastal communities, and ensuring prosperity and security for future generations. Nigeria is blessed with a vast coastline and diverse marine resources, with significant potential in sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, marine transport, maritime security, renewable energy, and mineral resources.

    “Nigeria is embarking on an ambitious plan to upscale its blue economy through a diverse range of Initiatives. This initiative aims to contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, by midwifing the establishment of quantum numbers of small and medium-sized enterprises within the next decade in the sector to create jobs.

    “We are aligning with Blue Belt Initiative, which is the sustainable use of our ocean resources to drive economic growth and improve livelihoods while preserving ocean ecosystems.”

    Oyetola said the National Blue Economy Strategy to be developed represents Nigeria’s vision for a sustainable blue economy, adding that it would help shape actionable policies and frameworks for sustainable ocean and marine resource management.

    He thanked the African Union Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR) and the Kingdom of Norway for their support toward the development of Nigeria’s National Blue Economy Strategy document.

    The Representative of the African Union, Georges Mba Asseko, said Nigeria has the potential to be amongst the global key players in the marine and blue economy sector.

    Read Also: Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    He said Nigeria could be one of the leading countries globally in the marine and blue economy sector if it works with other relevant stakeholders in the sector rather than working in isolation.

    He said: “The African Union is leading a process to help countries to domesticate the African Blue Economy strategy into national policies. In Africa, we have aquatic resources that have not been exploited.

    “When you look at the traditional sectors like fisheries, maritime transport, environment, and tourism, you would discover that Africa is nowhere globally. So, there is room to develop those sectors that we already think that we are in, but we are not playing the game properly.

    “When you go to fisheries, where is Nigeria in the global arena of fisheries in the world? Nigeria should be leading because of its abundant resources. The major problem in Africa is that different sectors work in isolation. The fishery is working alone, and it does not think about the transport or environment sector. We need to break that idea and work together and certainly become the key players in the global arena.”

  • Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    The food support scheme of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola has distributed cash gifts of over N6 million to residents of Osun State over the weekend.

    The gesture named Oyetola Hand of Fellowship (OHOF) which is a quarterly event has been in place since 2023 and facilitated by  Kayode Sowade in Modakeke, Osun State.

    Sowade speaking at the fifth edition of the programme, disclosed that the October edition was used to commemorate the 70th birthday celebration of Oyetola.

    A leader of Osun State All Progressive Congress(APC), Chief Sunday Akere giving cash to beneficiaries. Photo: Toba Adedeji.
    A leader of Osun State All Progressive Congress(APC), Chief Sunday Akere giving cash to beneficiaries. Photo: Toba Adedeji.

    He disclosed that “So far, over 4,000 households have benefitted from the initiative. For this edition, 1,200 households benefitted from as we distributed over N6 million for them.

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    “This initiative was designed by  Oyetola while he was the governor of Osun State when he was feeding 30,000 households on a monthly basis. This is just the continuation on a small scale.”

    The representative of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Professor Olalekan Yinusa commended the facilitator of the programme noting that it would go a long way to mitigate hardship in the community.

  • Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    Oyetola food support scheme distributes cash gift to 1,200 Osun households

    The food support scheme of Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola distributed over N6millon cash gifts to residents of Osun State over the weekend.

    The gesture named Oyetola Hand of Fellowship (OHOF), which is a quarterly event, has been on since 2023 and facilitated by Engr. Kayode Sowade in Modakeke town.

    Sowade informed the October edition was to commemorate the 70th birthday celebration of Oyetola.

    He said: “So far, over 4,000 household have benefitted from the initiative. For this edition, 1,200 households benefitted from as we distributed over N6million for them.

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    “This initiative was designed after the programme of Oyetola while he was the governor of Osun State when he was feeding 30,000 households on monthly basis. This is just the continuation on small scale.”

    The representative of Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Professor Olalekan Yinusa, commended the facilitator of the programme noting that it will go a long way to mitigate hardship in the community.

    A chieftain of All Progressives Congress(APC) and ex-Osun Commissioner Chief Sunday Akere held that the gesture will go a long way to help the party at the grassroots.

  • Oyetola @ 70th: Celebrating leadership essentials

    Oyetola @ 70th: Celebrating leadership essentials

    By Jimoh Olorede

    On Sunday, September 29, 2024, the former governor of Osun State and incumbent Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, turned 70th. His Septuagenarian birthday anniversary was very iconic. However, this is not because the atmosphere was rented by pageantry, but modest pleasantry, and not by flamboyant display of wealth. The Minister’s 70th birthday was iconic not because passers-by could not pass during the celebrations, or farmers could not go to farm.

    What made Oyetola’s 70th birthday anniversary unique was the exemplification of good leadership essentials as manifested in the celebrations of his birthday in absentia. So, as in the opinion of John C. Maxwell, after all, “leadership is not about titles, positions, or flowcharts. It is about one life influencing another.” This obviously shows that Oyetola is highly influential by virtue of his leadership essentials, and not mere personality credentials, and his life-changing impacts on many people who insisted on celebrating his birthday anniversary even in absentia as he was far away in Saudi Arabia in solemn supplication, submission and thanksgiving to God Almighty for making him a beneficiary of His benevolence in the last seven decades.

    Also, according to Chris Hadfield, “leadership is not about being liked; it’s about being respected.” The insistence of his followers, loyalists, friends and associates to celebrate his birthday anniversary even when he wouldn’t want to, for certain reasons, was more of a show of respect and adoration to Oyetola.

    The Honourable Minister wouldn’t want to hold any ostentatious celebration or extravagant birthday party for his empathy toward the haves-not and the downtrodden, especially with the present socio-economic situation of the nation. As learnt, the organizers of his 70th birthday anniversary celebrations had to convince him that his solemn mission would be brought to fruition and his decision to execution by organizing a philanthropic celebration that would give privilege to the less-privileged, alms to beggars, food to the hungry, empowerment to widows and widowers and succour to the poor and needy.

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    The free medical outreach programme conducted across Osun State’s three senatorial districts, benefiting over 4,000 residents, showcases Oyetola’s empathetic and compassionate nature. This selfless act embodies the true spirit of leadership.

    In actually fact, what the people from far and near celebrated at Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office in Osogbo last Sunday was not Oyetola himself, but his indelible footprints, impacts, essence, and leadership quintessence. The presence of the mammoth crowd during the grand finale of the ceremony climaxing the 70th anniversary celebrations of the Minister in his absence seemed to have dislodged a Yoruba adage that says “we can’t shave a man’s head in his absence” (a kii fari lehin olori).

    The attendance of well-meaning personalities like the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and other heads of agencies both under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and beyond, prominent traditional rulers like the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Ataoja of Osogbo, and many other royal fathers, mayors, players and Chief Executive Officers of different industries, political bigwigs and many other very important personalities (VIP) at the modest birthday prayer session held at the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Office in Osogbo, Osun State, did not only make the event epochal, but also further justified Oyetola’s prominence, political clout, beneficial personality credentials and leadership essentials.

    The celebrant’s associates appreciate his essence and leadership quintessence as a benefactor, who has taken them thus far in the socio-economic ladder of achievement, as a leader is dead alive, if he could not duplicate or replicate himself. Again, what was celebrated was not Oyetola, but his integrity, which you could take as cheque to the bank. His leadership, marked by integrity and foresight, continues to inspire many, given his commitment to ethical role-modeling and his ability to think critically about the future.

    The Osun State former governor’s visionary leadership, especially as demonstrated during his tenure as governor of the State, which enabled him to achieve remarkable feats despite the challenges he faced, was what attracted people to celebrate him. It’s no gainsaying that his ability to think strategically was instrumental in driving progress in the state.

    More so, his excellent administrative prowess has earned him accolades from various quarters. His commitment to good governance and exemplary leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of Osun State residents. His transparency and accountability have also conferred on him an outstanding status in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    As Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola has demonstrated unwavering transparency and accountability. The humongous revenues generated in the first quarter of 2024 and remitted to the Federal Government coffers attest to his acumen in revenue generation, fiscal management, and leadership transparency.

    As we continue to celebrate Oyetola’s 70th birthday, we honour his dedication to public service, community development, and integrity. His life’s work serves as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that effective leadership is about serving others and making a positive impact, and as we commemorate this milestone birthday, we reaffirm our commitment to emulating these essential qualities of good leadership. We pray God to strengthen his ability to further duplicate and replicate himself as a leader. 

    Dr. Olorede, Head, Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies at a Federal Higher Institution in Nigeria, writes from Oderinde’s Compound, Iragbiji, Osun State.

  • Adegboyega Oyetola: Reflections on leadership and legacy

    Adegboyega Oyetola: Reflections on leadership and legacy

    “And reckon (people) by the number of years, so that they may understand.” (Quran 18:19).

    My first encounter with Adegboyega Oyetola, then Chief of Staff to Governor Rauf Aregbesola, occurred in 2014 during the buildup to the Osun governorship election, where Aregbesola sought reelection on the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket. Today, Oyetola serves as the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.

    My second and most enduring encounter with Oyetola commenced in October 2016, when I was appointed Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Media by Aregbesola. I later continued to serve under Governor Oyetola in the same capacity from December 4, 2020, to November 26, 2022. This tenure fostered a profound bond between us, transforming into a lasting father-son relationship that remains strong to this day.

    Reflecting on Oyetola’s leadership and legacy reveals valuable insights into governance, vision, and community impact. Born on September 29, 1954, in Iragbiji, Osun State, Oyetola’s transformation from insurance expert to Chief of Staff, governor, and now minister, demonstrates unwavering dedication to public service. It shows that one can live with conviction and integrity, earning respect rather than hatred. Today, Nigerians admire not only his achievements but also his character, shaped by humility, compassion and an untiring commitment to the greater good.

    Oyetola’s remarkable journey teaches us that true fulfilment lies not in power, wealth or fame, but in humility, empathy and a deep connection to the human experience. Through life’s trials and triumphs, he has remained steadfast, acknowledging divine guidance. Now, he seeks the quietude that calms the mind, clarity that illuminates the heart, and wisdom that guides the soul.

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    Olalekan Badmus, an engineer and former Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties in Oyetola’s government, praises the former governor as “a highly respected leader with a proven track record of delivering on promises and upholding exceptional administrative ethics.” Badmus, who’s currently the Executive Director of Marine and Operations at the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), believes that Oyetola’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate both those who’ve worked under him and those growing under his guidance. I also share this sentiment!

    As we mark Oyetola’s 70th birthday, Psalm 90:12 takes on profound significance: “Teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” This milestone presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of politics, governance and community development through his experiences. We can draw valuable lessons from his leadership, highlighting the importance of vision, integrity and compassion in shaping Nigeria’s future.

    As Oyetola marks seven decades of life, has his extensive experience taught him to cherish every day? If his 70th birthday presents a chance to reflect on his legacy, accomplishments and future goals, will he leverage this landmark to mentor, advise and inspire future leaders? What does he hope to achieve or leave behind? Is it not time for the consummate politician to start reassessing priorities, considering succession planning, and ensuring his vision endures? Will he consolidate past accomplishments or pursue new challenges? Can his influence champion critical policies, education, healthcare or economic development?

    At 70, Oyetola should cement his legacy by consolidating achievements and resolving pending issues. As he begins this new chapter, recognizing when to pass the baton and offer guidance, rather than control or power play, is crucial. It is a time for reflection, growth, and exploration of personal passions that bring joy and fulfilment. Sharing his wisdom through memoirs, lectures, or mentorship will inspire future generations and solidify his historical impact. Since perfection is God’s exclusive domain, ‘IleriOluwa’, as Oyetola is fondly called, should own mistakes, acknowledge errors, and foster a culture of responsibility with tactical mandate. Even when he has mastered the clock, he still has to thread the needle carefully, and his commitment to integrity will have a lasting impact beyond his tenure – knowing his legacy transcends politics.

    In the words of Nelson Mandela, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And, according to the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in 2021, there were “8-15% dropout rate among adolescents in primary and secondary schools across the Southwest region, which include Ekiti, Oyo, Lagos, Ondo, Osun, and Ogun states.” For Oyetola specifically, education “is the foundation upon which an individual builds his or her life.” So, is it any wonder why his commitment to education is evident in initiatives like payment of West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) fees for students, distribution of educational materials and scholarship schemes? For these noble ventures, Oyetola deserves all the flowers!

    ‘Ìlera l’ògùn orò’ (Health is wealth) Marking his 70th birthday, Oyetola’s free medical and surgical outreach for more than 4,000 Osun State residents is truly commendable. This initiative showcases his unwavering commitment to community well-being. Additionally, distributing raw food items to vulnerable individuals through selected mosques, churches, and accredited centers across the state demonstrates his kindness and dedication to those in need. Indeed, that’s a kind of heart!

    ‘Ilé la ti ń kó èsó r’òde’ (Charity begins at home). I’ve long argued that Oyetola’s lasting legacy will be shaped by his success in revitalizing Osun APC, rather than his current role in Abuja. Beyond his distinguished public service, his political endeavors, particularly in addressing Osun APC’s challenges, must yield tangible results. Currently, Osun APC yearns for testimonies that are difficult for the enemies to believe and Oyetola should be prepared to lead the prayer warriors.

    In today’s complex and noisy political landscape, defections have become an inherent part of the game. Unfortunately, pretence, sycophancy and eye-service have also become synonymous with its unwritten rules. Of course, that’s why those who are supposed to be seeing visions end up kneeling for those who are imbued with the gift of dreaming. How do I mean? Specifically, why do politicians in Nigeria, including those in Osun State, predominantly switch between the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) and APC, rarely considering alternatives like Labour Party (LP) or Action Alliance (AA)? As Oyetola takes on the challenge of revitalizing Osun APC’s fragile dynamics, he must recognize that election victories rely practically on the undiluted support of the mass of the people, the critical electorate. Therefore, appealing to their consciences is paramount!

    To revitalize his influence, Oyetola should do more in reconnecting with the grassroots by personally engaging local communities, listening to their concerns, and sincerely empowering them to drive change. This entails fostering intra-party democracy through open dialogue, transparency and inclusive decision-making. By building strategic alliances with like-minded organizations and stakeholders, IleriOluwa can amplify his impact and create lasting change.

    At 70, Oyetola’s life embodies the human experience: a poignant balance of vulnerability and resilience, impermanence and transcendence. Seven decades of life have distilled his perspective, revealing that true fulfilment stems from appreciation, not accumulation, and that life’s value lies not in its length, but its depth. Yes, his journey has illuminated the convergence of purpose and meaning, where passion meets significance.

    As this soulful individual, whose life embodies the beauty of human existence, embarks on a new chapter, may his praise resonate eternally, inspiring humanity with a symphony of gratitude! May his faith remain unwavering, his heart humble, and his spirit vibrant! May his journey be filled with transcendent moments, wise reflections, cherished memories, and the uplifting power of faith, hope and love! May he find solace in the present, gratitude for the past, and hope for the future!

    Because He lives, for Adegboyega Oyetola, the end is not now!

    May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

  • Oyetola inaugurates governing board for Maritime Academy

    Oyetola inaugurates governing board for Maritime Academy

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated the governing board of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron.

    The minister also revealed that the academic curriculum of the institution has been upgraded to align with international maritime standards.

    Oyetola, who stated this while inaugurating members of the governing board in Abuja on Thursday, October 3, said the specialised training offered by the institution would expose graduates of the institution to jobs globally.

    He said: “The vision of MAN, Oron is to equip our teaming youth with specialized maritime education and practical skills, preparing them for jobs in shipping, marine engineering, port operations, and logistics by offering industry-aligned training and internationally recognized certifications.

    “As you are aware, the Academy has made significant strides in recent years, establishing itself as a premier institution for maritime education in Africa by investing heavily in infrastructural development, including modern classrooms, hostels, and advanced simulators for ship handling and engine room operations, providing cadets with practical, real-world training.”

    The minister further said that the objective of the academy remains the development of top and middle-class skilled manpower for the maritime sector.

    He said: “We want the certificate from the academy to be globally recognised so that whoever is trained there could get jobs anywhere in the world. We would ensure that that is done, given the fact that we have a board now.

    Read Also: Tinubu hails Oyetola on 70th birthday

    “The Academy must continue to provide specialized, practical training in areas like marine engineering and nautical sciences, which are essential for filling technical and operational roles.”

    Oyetola charged members of the board to be dedicated and aligned with the ongoing reforms in the industry.

    “As you assume your roles, I urge you to align yourselves with the ongoing reforms in the Marine and Blue Economy sector, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration. The Maritime sector is critical to our national development, and the success of our broader economic policies depends heavily on our ability to provide the required manpower.

    “The Maritime Academy of Nigeria is central to this effort. To achieve this, there must be a strong and seamless synergy between the governing board and the academy’s management.”

    He added that collaboration and mutual respect between both entities will ensure that the Academy functions efficiently and effectively.

    The chairman of the Board, Engr. Kehinde Akinola said he and other members of the board would collaborate with the ministry to propel the academy to greater heights.

    He said: “Together, we will foster excellence in maritime education, research, and innovation. I pledge to support the tireless efforts of the academy’s staff and students in shaping the future of Nigeria’s maritime industry.”

  • Why I marked my 70th birthday in Umrah —Oyetola

    Why I marked my 70th birthday in Umrah —Oyetola

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has shared the reason behind his trip to Saudi Arabia for Umrah in celebration of his 70th birthday.

    Speaking virtually in Yoruba to well-wishers and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during a celebration held in his honour at the Tinubu/Shettima campaign office on Sunday, Oyetola emphasized the importance of prayer.

    He said: “I decided to mark this milestone age in Umrah because I realise that prayer is very important and Allah is the one who has taken me this far. I need more prayers.

    “When I look at God’s hands in my life I see the need to get more closer to him. He is the one that has kept me alive till this moment. I see his hand in my family, work and career. I decided to come and give thanks to Allah.”

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    He commended the programme organisers including dignitaries; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Shippers Council(NSC), Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdulrosheed Olabomi, Alaagba of Aagba, Oba Rufus Ogunwole.

    Also, Managing Director of NIWA, Bola Oyebamiji, Executive Director, Project Implementation of the Federal Housing Authority, Remi Omowaiye, Chairman of Governing Board, Professor Siyan Oyeweso amongst others.

    The Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muyideen Salman, in his sermon lauded Oyetola, noting that he has been a destiny helper to many people who gathered for the celebration.