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Tag: Oyo

  • NGO seeks incorporation of FLHA into school curriculum in Oyo

    NGO seeks incorporation of FLHA into school curriculum in Oyo

    A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) Action Health Incorporated has urged Oyo State Government to incorporate Family Life and HIV/Aids education (FLHA) into school curriculum in the State.

    It said the step became necessary to safeguard young adolescent female child transitioning into adulthood.

    Speaking in Ibadan at a five-day training of Adolescent on Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) organised by Action Health Incorporated, with support of United Nations Population Fund (UNPF), the Program Officer of the NGO, Fatima Idris said with incorporation of FLHA in schools across the state, female child will make informed decisions while transitioning into productive adulthood.

    She maintained that FLHA will guide adolescent females and provide necessary healthy information needed for them to make right decision as they transform into adulthood.

    Idris while speaking on reason for training young female adolescent in Ibadan stated that the program was targeted towards in-school and out of school female to enlighten them on sexuality education and Genda Based Violence (GBV).

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    According to her, they are young people transitioning from childhood to adulthood and this is a very critical stage in their life because they want to experiment what is going on in town.

    She said: “We are raising them as champions to advocate for eradication of FGM and also to promote sexuality education among their peers and in the society.

    “Females are more vulnerable in the society, they bear more consequences during unwanted pregnancy and female genital mutilation and other GBV.

    “We have trained them to be advocates and champions, they will go out to sensitise the communities and their peers.

    “After this program, those of them in schools will established school clubs to educate their peers and also those that are outside the school will also do same to sensitise people on sexuality education and FGM.

    “We also taught them about sexuality education with curricular based approach, we taught them about their sexual reproductive health and right.

    “Some of the topic we taught them include adolescent sexual and reproductive health, their right as adolescent, we introduced them to values, how to improved their self extreme, body image, communication, refusal and negotiation skills, female genital mutilation.”

    Some of the beneficiaries of the training programme lauded effort of the NGO, saying the training program has really impacted positively into their lives.

  • Illegal minning: Oyo vows to set up security task force

    Illegal minning: Oyo vows to set up security task force

    • …reiterates warning against defaulters

    Oyo state government has said it is working on a security template that would create security task force to help tackle illegal mining and activities of illegal miners in the state.

    According to the government, it won’t be business as usual for illegal miners and those who fetters away the mineral resources of the state without the appropriate government approvals. 

    The director-general of the Oyo state mineral development agency and executive chairman of the Pacesetter Mineral Development Company, Abiodun Oni, gave the hint while addressing the press after a closed door meeting led by the state deputy governor, Bayo Lawal with the relevant stakeholders. 

    He said the planned task force will include security agencies, federal government mines officers, local government chairmen, the state anti-crime taskforce codenamed Operation Burst, Amotekun Corps among others.

    Oni said: “We just came out of a meeting chaird by Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal on behalf of the Governor. At the end of the meeting, we came up with several conclusions and solutions to the illegal mining activities that has been going on in Oyo state especially between the three local government areas of Olorunsogo, Irepo and Oorelope and the preferred solutions amongst others was that we will set up a task force that will be chaired by my humble self, that will include all the security agencies, everybody is involved. 

    “All the stakeholders from the Federal government agencies among others. We have Operation Burst, Civil Defence, Amotekun, Director of Zonal Minining offices in Federal ministries, the LGAs involved as well.

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    “At the meeting, we also discussed as well that this is not just local to the three local governments alone, this is an holistic effort that we are building on and we have discussed especially the synergy that is important to have between the security agencies. It is not that we don’t have the synergy but we need to improve on it and how we all work together.”

    He said the meeting agreed that a two weeks ultimatum be given to develop the framework, template and modes of operations of the task force which is to be present to Governor Seyi Makinde for approval while also factoring the federal government agencies owing to the exclusiveness of mining.

    “We understand at the meeting and appreciated the exclusiveness of mining and that’s why we have Zonal mines officers with us, so this is not done outside the purview of what the law says.

    “Then, we have a couple of weeks to come with the template of the task force, what they would look like, what the operations would be, and where they would cover. At the end of the day, we agreed on a standard operating procedure that will follow as we go on in making sure we secure our resources in the minning sector and all the minerals that God has given us so that we stop illegal mining activities and illegal miners.

    “What message we want to send from the outcome of this meeting is that, those days are gone, those days that our mineral deposit are fettered away without check, authority or permission and the day light robberry that we get from our mineral resources.

    “In one of the meetings we were told about how much resources we get and how less we get from our resources. So, we are determined and our deputy governor has given us a mandate to come up with a template for a task force that will be approved by the governor in two weeks and I want to guarantee the public that we are doing all our possible best to make sure we have this illegal mining stopped so that the communities, the state and the country as a whole will benefit from the God given deposits that we have in our backyard.”

  • SADI, JMLF begin iLead programme in Oyo

    SADI, JMLF begin iLead programme in Oyo

    Seyi Adisa Development Initiative (SADI) and John Maxwell Leadership Foundation (JMLF) have commenced a youth leadership development programme for secondary school students in Oyo state tagged “iLead Program.”

    The programme launched at the University of Ibadan (UI) attracted students, teachers and parents of selected schools across Ibadan

    The iLead program, designed and developed by John Maxwell, a globally renowned leadership expert, is a roundtable where the participants experience personal transformation while learning leadership values through conversations. 

    The programme manager, Ope Oyeniyi said it was implemented in few other countries with measurable impacts. It was first piloted in Afijio local government area of Oyo State where all the 17 secondary schools and a private school in the Area participated and experienced transformation.

    He informed the iLead programme for 2024/2025 session would be held on a weekly basis in the first, second and third terms within the premises of the selected schools. 

    According to him, participants will learn and practice sixteen leadership values in a session, adding that some of the values include choices, character, discipline, self worth, relationships and others.

    He stated that the mission is to prepare Nigerian youth to become values-based transformational leaders, practicing self and peer-to-peer leadership through round table conversations.

    Oyo Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Soliu Adelabu, represented by the Deputy Director of Secondary School, Tayo Stephen, said the collaboration between SADI and the Ministry of Education would go a long way to ensure the exposure of students to transformational leadership skills. 

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    He reiterated the State Government’s commitment to partnership that would boost educational standards in the state.

    SADI Chairman, Barr. Seyi Adisa, said participants during the programme will engage in activities, discussions, and projects that will push them to think critically, act decisively, and lead inclusively.

    Adisa, who was represented by Ola Jimoh said leadership is not just about holding positions of power; but making a positive impact, driving change, and uplifting others.

    He said: “To our participants, you are here because we believe in your potential to be transformative leaders. Embrace this opportunity to learn from each other, to grow beyond your comfort zones, and to develop a mindset that prioritizes collaboration and innovation.

    “Remember, leadership is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous learning, self-reflection, and a commitment to making a difference. Let’s embark on this journey together with enthusiasm, openness, and a shared commitment to excellence.”.

    Some of the selected schools include Bodija International School, St Louis Grammar School, St Anne’s Sec. School 2, Loyola College, Queens School, Valencia College, Yejide Grammar School, Ibadan Grammar School, St Theresa Sec. School among others.

  • JUST IN: Labour leaders re-open Oyo govt Secretariat gate

    JUST IN: Labour leaders re-open Oyo govt Secretariat gate

    Following the suspension of the ongoing strike called by the national leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), the state leadership of the unions have in compliance reopened the Oyo state government Secretariat.

    The leaders had earlier blocked the entrance gates and even enforced the sit-at-home directive by going round the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies to chased out workers who reported for duty, succeeded in grounding all activities within the state Secretariat. 

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    But, shortly after the new directive on suspension of the strike filtered, the Chairman of the TUC, Comrade Bosun Olabiyi quickly summoned all the labour leaders, briefed them and directed an immediate compliance with the national directive.

    As at the time of this report, the Secretariat still remains deserted despite the re-opening of the gates.

    But, people who have businesses within and around the Secretariat are having unhindered access.

    Security at the Secretariat was still very tight.

    Also, banks were yet to re-open for transaction as at the time of this report. 

  • Oyo Secretariat grounded, banks, public schools remain shut over strike

    Oyo Secretariat grounded, banks, public schools remain shut over strike

    Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and all affiliates on Tuesday grounded activities at the Oyo state government Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. 

    The labour leaders, who arrived the Secretariat as early as 7:30am, ensured all the entrance gates were shut, leaving out some workers who reported for duty.

    The situation is in fulfilment of the threat by the labour leaders who on Monday expressed dismay at the level of non-compliance with the sit-at-home directive of the national leadership of the labour unions.

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    As it was on Monday, security operatives including officers of the Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Security (DSS), Oyo Amotekun Corps among others were stationed at the secretariat. 

    The operatives had their patrol vans parked at strategic locations around the entrance gate.

    As of the time of this report, the situation remained calm and with food vendors taking advantage of the situation to sell to some stranded workers at the entrance gates.

  • Oyo to rename two tertiary institutions

    Oyo to rename two tertiary institutions

    • Schools begin three-day warning strike

    The Oyo State government has approved the renaming of Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery, and Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki.

    The decisions were taken during yesterday’s State Executive Council (SEC) meeting.

    The legislative requirement to effect the name change has been transmitted to the House of Assembly.

    Commissioner for Justice Abiodun Aikomo, at a news conference, said while the request to rename the College of Nursing and Midwifery was made to the Colleges’ regulatory body, that of Oke-Ogun Polytechnic was to honor a former Secretary to the State Government, Chief Micheal Koleoso.

    He added that the government also considered and approved the reorganisation of the state-owned Mining Development Company, with a plan to increase its shareholding from N10 million to N100 million.

    “Council also considered reorganizing the Pacesetter Mining Development Company. The government recognises the opportunity that abounds in the sector, and we also want to play in that space to earn revenue for the state and reposition the state for better efficiency.

    “Council considered possible reorganisation and injection of capital to the Pacesetter Mining Development Company and it was approved. Consequently, the shares authorised capital of the company will be increased from N10 million to N100 million.

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    “Before now, the N10 million shares were owned by persons on behalf of Oyo State. But, going forward, substantial, super majority shares will be held by OYSIPA which is the investment arm of Oyo State. OYSIPA will be holding 99 per cent shares and the Managing Director of the company will be holding one per cent, just nominally to satisfy the requirements of law.

    “And we hope that when the government pays for the share, it is able to inject the necessary capital so the company can compete and more revenue can come to the state,” Aikomo added.

    Academic and non-academic staff of Oyo State owned Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, under the aegis of Joint Action Committee of Trade Unions, yesterday embarked on a three-day warning strike to press home their demands from the government.

    The union said the decision was taken after series of meetings with the Ministry of Education yielded no fruit. It appealed to Governor Seyi Makinde to intervene before the matter gets out of hand.

    The JAC comprises the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics (SSANIP), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and Senior Staff Union of Colleges of Education in Nigeria (SSUCOEN).

  • Oyo to rename two tertiary institutions

    Oyo to rename two tertiary institutions

    Oyo Government has approved the renaming of two state-owned tertiary institutions.

    The decision forms part of resolutions at the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday.

    The institutions include: Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwifery and the Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki.

    The government said the legislative requirement to effect the name change has been transmitted to the House of Assembly. 

    Speaking during a briefing, the Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, said while the request for the renaming of the College of Nursing and Midwifery was made by the regulatory body, the need to rename the Saki based Polytechnic was to honour a former Secretary to the State Government,  Chief Micheal Adeniyi Koleoso. 

    Aikomo said: “Council considers the renaming of the Oyo State College of Nursing and Midwery. This was necessitated by the request of the Nursing and Midwery Council that the name of the institution be changed. It was considered and approved. 

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    “Council considered the renaming of the Oke Ogun Polytechnic, Saki to be renamed Micheal Adeniyi Koleoso Polytechnic, Saki. Chief Adeniyi Koleoso had served Oyo State in various capacities, and he has contributed immensely to the development of Oyo State and Oke Ogun in particular.

    “There’s a shift from what we used to know. People are immortalised when they are long gone but Governor Seyi Makinde considered it necessary and fit to appreciate people while they are still alive, when they can appreciate and reap the fruit of their labour.

    “So, this was considered and council approved the name change for onward transmission to the Hosue of Assembly for passage to law. The same thing will happen to the Nursing and Midwery College to be renamed because these institutions were set up by the law, amendments will also be considered by the Assembly.”

    He added the government also considered and approved a reorganising of the state-owned Mining Development Company with a plan to increase its shareholding from N10 million to N100million.

    “Council also considered the reorganisation of the Pacesetter Mining Development Company. The Oyo State government recognises the opportunity that abounds in the sector and we also want to play in that space to earn revenue for the state and reposition the state for better efficiency. 

    “Council considered possible reorganisation and injection of capital to the Pacesetter Mining Development Company and it was approved. Consequently, the shares authorised capital of the company will be increased from N10million to N100million. 

    “Before now, the N10million shares were owned by persons on behalf of Oyo State. But, going forward, substantial, super majority shares will be heldby OYSIPA which is the investment arm of Oyo State. OYSIPA will be holding 99 percent shares and the Managing Direcror of the company will be holding one percent share, just nominally to satisfy the requirements of the law. 

    “And we hope that when the government pays for the share of the company, the government is able to inject the necessary capital in the company and the company can compete with other stakeholders in the business so that more revenue can come to the state,” Aikomo added.

  • Oyo, Worldbank partner to renovate 58 schools

    Oyo, Worldbank partner to renovate 58 schools

    Oyo State government, in collaboration with Global Partnership for Education (GPE), a World Bank assisted programme, has disbursed grants for the renovation of 58 public schools in the state.

    Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, stated this during a meeting with stakeholders, including Chairmen of School Based Management Committees, (SBMCs), head teachers, among others, in Ibadan on Monday.

    Prof. Adelabu called on the SBMC and head teachers responsible for the project to be accountable and transparent.

    He said: “As part of the approved workplace for the project, some schools were selected for infrastructural development, such as renovation of classrooms, with potable water, furniture, toilet facilities and solar system.”

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    Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Adeniran hinted that the total cost would be determined after inspection of deplorable nature of benefiting schools.

    Adeniran, who underscored the importance of education as a priority of the present administration, said the project was significant with the government’s agenda in developing a road map in its educational sector.

    The Special Adviser on Education Intervention, Tiamiyu Abiodun, said the grant was meant to turn around school infrastructure, adding that the project will enhance the capacity of education in the state, hence the need to involve SBMCs.

    He reiterated that the selection of benefitting schools was objective and devoid of bias or political interferences.

    The SBMC Chairman, John Omolewu, who spoke on behalf of benefiting schools, promised quality and transparent execution of the job at the end of the project.

  • Oyo NLC, TUC picket NERC, IBEDC offices Ibadan

    Oyo NLC, TUC picket NERC, IBEDC offices Ibadan

    …demands total reversal of tariff hike

    Oyo state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) joined their counterparts across the country to pick offices of the Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission (NERC) and Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) over the hike in electricity tariff.

    Some of the offices picketed are NERC Iyaganku, IBEDC headquarters and regional headquarters Ring Road, Oluyole IBEDC Staff Development Centres in Oluyole, Iyaganku, IBEDC Dugbe, Transmission Company, Jericho and IBEDC Apata business units all in Ibadan.

    The unions demanded a total reversal of the tariff by the federal government or else the offices would be shut down until its request was acceded to.

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    The picketing action which was monitored by men and officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), witnessed members of staff of IBEDC being chased out of the buildings in line with the directive of the national secretariat of the Unions.

    The electricity tariff was astronomically hiked from N65/kwh to N225/Kwh by the Commission for Band A users.

    Addressing the journalists in Ibadan, Oyo state NLC chairman, Comrade Kayode Martins, disclosed that Nigerians cannot continue to live in suffering, saying that they are tired of the inhuman policies of the federal government.

    He said the picketing is just to pass a message to the IBEDC and NERC as regards the hike in the tariff of electricity, noting that Nigerians are already facing epileptic power supply and paying for what they are not enjoying.

    He said: “We are fed up with inhuman policies being rolled out by our leaders, as of today, to live in Nigeria has become a crime, we find it difficult to relate with other countries, now we are enslaved in our father’s land. Sometimes ago, the federal government removed subsidy on everything making life unbearable for Nigeria citizens.”

  • Oyo teenage table tennis star wins gold medal at ITTF West African championship

    Oyo teenage table tennis star wins gold medal at ITTF West African championship

    A 17-year-old table tennis player from Oyo State, Kabirat Ayoola has won gold medal at the just concluded ITTF Western Africa Regional Championship tournament held in Lome, Togo.

    Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke announced this at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

    According to the Commissioner, Kabirat Ayoola, who is an indigene of Oyo town, was part of the Nigeria Team which won gold at the competition.

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    The gold medalist had earlier won a lot of medals for Oyo state at the junior cadet and senior categories.

    The Commissioner, while praising the teenager for her achievement, said Oyo State is proud of Kabirat and other members of the male and female table tennis teams that represented Nigeria at the just concluded ITTF Championship in Togo for their laudable performance.

    Team Nigeria won five medals comprising three gold and two silver medals at the Championship.