The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Oyo

  • Oyo to Oke-Ogun elders: join hands to address insecurity

    Oyo to Oke-Ogun elders: join hands to address insecurity

    The Oyo State Government has charged leaders in Oke-Ogun zone to join hands and come up with a template to quickly address issues of insecurity around the zone.

    The government said all local governments in Oke-Ogun Zone II comprising Olorunsogo, Oorelope, Irepo, Saki West, Saki East and Atisbo Local Governments to come up with a security template that will holistically and comprehensively address the issues of insecurity around the zone. 

    Speaking during a stakeholders meeting ahead of the 2024 fiscal year at Kisi, the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, stated the government remained committed towards waging war against insecurity in Oke-Ogun.

    The Deputy Governor added the current administration would stop at nothing to ensure citizens are safe in all zones in the State. 

    He commended efforts of security outfits at ensuring peace and stability in the state, expressing the government’s readiness to partner with all security agencies towards safeguarding the state.

    He stressed further that budgetary system is critical to democracy. 

    He said: “The people need to be consulted first before any budget preparation. This is the only expression of true democracy.”

    He noted that governance is different from politics, and now is the time for governance, which must be done right.

    The Deputy Governor assured the people that all ongoing projects in the zone will be completed as he’ll ensure that they’re captured in the 2024 budget. 

    Read Also: Leaked s3x tape: Uche Ogbodo ‘comforts’ Moyo Lawal

    “Projects such as the Saki-Ogboro-Igboho road rehabilitation will be completed as well and the dualization of Kisi Township road which the people have requested will also be done.”

    He added that more Amotekun Corps will be recruited across all the zones in Oke-Ogun.

    Commissioner for Budget, Prof. Adetunji Babatunde, stated that a good budget must be a budget of engagement.

    The meeting attracted Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu; Executive Assitant to the Governor on Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Alh. Kolawole Bello; lawmaker representing Irepo-Olorunsogo Constituency, Hon. Atanda Wele, and the Local Government Chairmen under Oke-Ogun Zone II among others.

  • 100 Oyo youths for training in geographic information system

    100 Oyo youths for training in geographic information system

    The Oyo State Waste Management Consultant, Mottainai Recycling Ltd has announced plans to train 100 talented youths as Geographic Information System (GIS) experts.

    The training, according to a statement by Mottainai Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Oluwaseun Fasuhanmi, is a bold step towards Mottainai’s urban transformation, technological advancement and its Sustainable Smart City Waste Management. 

    Fasuhanmi said this collaborative effort with the State Government signifies the company’s shared commitment to address urban challenges through technology-driven solutions by creating a cleaner and more sustainable environment. 

    She said the groundbreaking initiative, aims to harness the energy, creativity, and innovation of young minds to re-shape the future of Oyo and propel it into the realm of contemporaneity and sustainability. 

    Fasuhanmi stated that the Sustainable Smart City Waste Management training programme will cover comprehensive GIS techniques, applications, and hands-on experience to ensure that the youths become proficient in the use of Geospatial techniques and data analytics. 

    “This will enable them to provide essential support to the Waste Management sector especially efficient in service delivery, improved waste collection routes, identifying critical areas for waste disposal, and implementing sustainable waste management practices.”

    She added that the engagement aligns with the vison of OMITUNTUN 2.0. as Oyo embraces digital innovations to enhance the quality of life for its residents.

    While harnessing the potential of Oyo State young population, the training aims to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.

    Read Also: Oyo APC stalwart Gbolagade congratulates Tinubu on tribunal victory

    “The youths of today possess a remarkable capacity for innovation and adaptability. By involving them in shaping our future, we are not only creating opportunities for personal growth but also infusing into the state by tap into the fresh perspectives and inventive ideas that young individuals bring to the table as well as dynamic ideas that will drive positive change”, she said. 

    “Harnessing the power of GIS technology, we aim to streamline waste management processes, reduce environmental impacts, and pave the way for a greener future in Oyo State”. 

    “We are thrilled to embark on this journey towards a smarter and more sustainable Oyo state,”  Fasuhanmi said. 

    Fasuhanmi added that through the initiative, the selected youths will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, spanning from improving transportation systems and waste management to enhancing public services and urban planning.

  • Oyo commences operation at new model smart school, as UBEC hands over structure

    Oyo commences operation at new model smart school, as UBEC hands over structure

    All is set for the takeoff of the newly constructed model smart school, Ibadan, the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB has said.

     The Executive Secretary of Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr. Jacob Dairo, said this during a handover of the structure to the Board by the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC.

     During the handover, Dairo applauded UBEC on its commitment to technical and digital education in the state.

     He equally said the state government, through the Board, has not relented in its bid to equip the younger generation with the requisite skills to remain competitive in the global economy.

    Dairo added that the place of education in the attainment of national development and transformation cannot be relegated to the background.

     The Federal Government through the Universal Basic Education Commission and the Oyo state government constructed the Model smart school in the Sogunro area of Akinyele Local Government.

      Dairo, who was recently appointed as the Executive Secretary of the Board by Governor Seyi Makinde, said the goal was to prioritise digital and technical education towards attaining socioeconomic development in the younger generation and make them competitive.

     The Executive Secretary said officials are ready for full academic activities, which will commence in September.

     Dairo said the school will accommodate pre-basic class; Special Education; Basic 1-3 and Junior Secondary School 1-2 pupils.

    Read Also: Why I stopped lying about my age – Ondo commissioner

     “All is set for the school’s take-off in the new school calendar. The school will enhance the quality of teaching, learning, and the use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) of our pupils.

     “We commend the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, for its support in uplifting basic education in the State, as well as move to eliminate out-of-school syndrome.

     “Equally, we appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde in the implementation of qualitative basic education in the State. The visit was meant to assess the level of the project in readiness for the next session”, he said.

    Also speaking, a representative of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Mrs. Sherifat Lawal, reiterated the commitment of the FG to basic education in Oyo state.

     She also said the objectives of the Commission are to assist all states in the development of smart school projects and to improve the access of teachers and pupils to quality teaching and learning materials.

     The zonal consultant of UBEC, Sanya Akindele said the school has classrooms for pupils with special needs, Pre-basic, Primary, and JSS classes.

     He added that the school is equipped with a Robotic laboratory, vocational laboratories, a Clinic, an ICT room, and an e-library.

     Akindele also eulogized Governor Makinde, for his commitment to the project.

     Akindele added that the project is an opportunity to open up e-learning and expose pupils to computers at an early age, saying the school is fully computerised by UBEC/SUBEB.

     “The way forward is ICT and this will give them a jump-start in life”, he said.

  • Oyo seals off banks, others

    Oyo seals off banks, others

    Oyo State Government has sealed off commercial banks as well as telecommunications masts around Ibadan metropolis. 

    The enforcement team of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, led by the Director, Land Use Charge, Mr. Olufisayo Ogunbiyi, during an enforcement tour around Ibadan, said the action was due to non-compliance with payment of revenue to the coffers of the government. 

    He said the commercial banks and telecommunications outfits had been served notices before the enforcement team visited them.

    Read Also: Oyo State workers resume work after week-long protest

    He said once they paid the required land use charge, their premises would be re-opened for business.

    Ogunbiyi noted that the state government had zero tolerance for non-compliance with its policies, hence business owners should ensure payment of charges to the government account to ensure their businesses were not disrupted, “as the exercise is still continuing.” 

    He said residents should contact the ministry on 0700 OYO LANDS (070069652637) or send an email to lands@oyostate.gov.ng for enquiries.

    Rate payers can also make Land Use Charge Payment by visiting pay.lands.oyostate.gov.ng, while people can make an online payment by downloading Oyo State Property Reference System (OYPRS) through Google Play Store or App Store, which will identify the building/property and land use charge outstanding. 

  • Oyo seals commercial banks, telecoms for tax default

    Oyo seals commercial banks, telecoms for tax default

    The Oyo state government has sealed off some commercial banks as well as telecommunications masts around Ibadan metropolis. 

    The enforcement team of the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, led by the Director, Land Use Charge, Mr Olufisayo Ogunbiyi, during an enforcement tour around the city of Ibadan, said the action was due to non compliance with payment of revenue to the coffers of the state government. 

    According to the director, the commercial banks and the telecommunications outfits have been served notices before the enforcement team visited them.

    He assured that once they pay the required Land use charge, their premises would be re-opened for business.

    He noted that the state government has zero tolerance for non compliance to its polices, hence all business owners should ensure payment of charges to the state government account to ensure their businesses are not disrupted as the exercise is still continuing. 

    Read Also: NLC Strike: Banks, FRIN, others shut in Oyo

    He equally appealed to residents of the state to contact the Ministry on 0700 OYO LANDS (070069652637) or send an email to lands@oyostate.gov.ng for enquires.

    He added that rate payers can also make Land Use Charge Payment by visiting pay.lands.oyostate.gov.ng, while people can make an online payment by downloading Oyo State Property Reference System (OYPRS) through Google Play Store or App Store which will identify the building/property and land use charge outstanding. 

    Amongst the team that went out for the enforcement are land officers as well as representatives of Private Networks Nigeria Ltd, the IGR Consultant for Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development.

  • Warning strike: Oyo workers report for work

    Warning strike: Oyo workers report for work

    As the two-day warning strike called by the national leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) begins, some workers under the employ of the Oyo State Government were seen reporting for duties on Tuesday. 

    The Nation observed that all the entrance gates leading to the Secretariat opened and workers were seen arriving the Secretariat as early as 6:30am

    The state mass transit buses dedicated to convey workers were also seen arriving the Secretariat with the last getting in a few minutes to eight.

    But the buses were not filled to capacity, an indication that some workers might have stayed back from work.

    As of the time of this report, the Secretariat was looking scanty with only a few people arriving and going to their duty posts.

    Read Also: LG polls: Oyo APC releases chairmanship candidates list

    Some Ministries and Departments were yet to be open when The Nation went around around 8:15am.

    It was however gathered that senior members of staff from Deputy Directors were expected to report for duties until otherwise directed, irrespective of the NLC orders.

    It was observed the main entrance gate opened with residents and commuters going about their duties unhindered. 

    There were not unusual security personnel at the gate unlike in time pasts when strike were called.

    Commercial drivers and motorcyclists were also seen going about their duties but with low turnout.

    It was unsure if commercial banks will open for the day’¥ business. 

    When The Nation visited banks around the Secretariat-Awolowo Road, it was observed the banks may not be opened for business. 

    But at another first generation bank visited around by the Secretariat bridge, a security officer told The Nation that they are not sure of when they will open for business for the day.

    The banks visited however assured that the alternative banking platforms including Automated Teller Machines (ATM) will be available for customers to transact business. 

    As at the time of this report, the number of workers arriving the Secretariat keep increasing with some workers saying they were at work to observe how the day pans out.

    It remains unclear if situation will change as the day opens up.

    The Nation reports that the NLC last week Friday announced that workers will go on a two-day warning strike, today and tomorrow (Wednesday).

    Its President Joe Ajaero said the decision was taken at its NEC meeting with possibility of a “total shutdown” after 14 days.

  • Oyo Senator partners police on welfarism, effective policing

    Oyo Senator partners police on welfarism, effective policing

    Oyo South Senator Sharafadeen Alli has partnered the Nigeria Police to boost welfare and effective policing. 

    Alli, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on INEC and Vice-Chairman, Senate Committee on Customs as part of efforts to support the Police, donated a borehole to Mokola Divisional Police Station, Ibadan with a generating set and a 3.5kva Inverter.

    Alli also donated Solar panels and other accessories to Sango Divisional Police Station. 

    A statement by media aide to the lawmaker, Akeem Abass stated that Alli’s gesture is not only a testament to his commitment to develop his community but also appreciation for the role of l Police in ensuring the safety and security of citizens. 

    According to him, the borehole is expected to provide sustainable water source for the officers at Mokola Police Station and it’s environs, saying many Police stations in Nigeria are plagued by lack of basic amenities, and clean water. 

    The statement noted that Alli’s intervention will go a long way in improving living conditions of Police officers and their families, adding that the three solar inverters donated to Sango Police Station will ensure uninterrupted power supply. 

    “Many police stations in Nigeria rely on generators, which are not only expensive to maintain but also tend to break down frequently. With the installation of the 3.5kva Inverter together with Solar panels, the station will be able to save costs and reduce its carbon footprint.”

    “The senator’s gesture has been received with overwhelming admiration by the communities. Residents have praised his commitment to developing the community, and the police force has also commended him for his support.”

    Read Also: Church to partner Oyo council in community development

    “It is not often that you see politicians partnering with the police force to ensure effective policing, Senator Alli’s intervention is indeed a step in the right direction.”

    “The role of the Police in ensuring the safety and security of citizens cannot be overemphasized, and it is only fair that they are provided with the necessary support to carry out their duties effectively.”

    “Alli’s intervention at the Mokola and Sango Divisional Police Stations has gone a long way in improving the working conditions of the officers, and his commitment to developing the community should be emulated by other political leaders,” he said. 

  • Oyo kicks off automated chicken certification for public consumption

    Oyo kicks off automated chicken certification for public consumption

    The Oyo State Government has launched digital certification of all chickens for public consumption across the State.

    The initiative, which will be implemented from next month, will ensure that all chickens to be slaughtered for public consumption are digitally certified by veterinary doctors, is aimed at improving public health.

    A document sighted by The Nation shows that companies and individuals slaughtering chickens for public consumption will begin to present certificates of clean bill of health for each chicken being slaughtered to government officials saddled with enforcement of the new policy.

    For the success of the policy, the State Government has engaged Ensapuh Veterinary Services Limited as the sole consultant to conduct veterinary  chicken inspection at all chicken processing plants in the state.

    The company, which has several veterinary doctors in its employ, will inspect and certify every chicken to be slaughtered as fit for human consumption.

    When contacted, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company Dr. Adebayo Awoyele explained that the certification process has been digitized for convenience, speed and credibility.

    According to him, the process will be carried out using a technology device christened Meat Guard. The technology was developed by the company for speed, accuracy and reliability.

    He said: “ Meat Guard is the first and only technology-based veterinary meat inspection solution in Nigeria developed by Ensapuh Veterinary Services Limited.

    “Meat Guard  combines veterinary  public health and technology to ensure  the Nigerian meat products are safe for consumers and profitable for players in the meat value chain.

    Electronic veterinary health certificate for meat products puts food safety verification right in the hands of consumers.”

    Commenting on the initiative, Oyo Commissioner for Agriculture Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, explained that public health is at the centre of the need for the initiative.

    Read Also: N3.4b debt: Oyo ex-council chiefs accuse Makinde, Assembly of witch-hunt

    He said the initiative will help ascertain the condition under which poultry are produced for human consumption and the suitability of the meat itself for human consumption.

    The commissioner disclosed that the government partnered with the consultant to bring effectiveness to the process, stressing that the automation by Ensapuh Limited was the game changer. The automation will remove human error and influence as well as ease the process of certifying the meat for human consumption. 

    Olaleye said the ministry was already engaging stakeholders to ensure that they embrace the initiative.

    He added: “There is an existing law backing our effort but this is a democratic government. We are working for the people, hence our policies have human face. It is the reason we are first having dialogue with stakeholders to let them understand what we are doing. And we will continue to engage them so we can succeed. It is all about protecting public health.”

    Chicken processing plants will pay a token for certification of each meat to be sold to the public.

  • N3.4b debt: Oyo ex-council chiefs accuse Makinde, Assembly of witch-hunt

    N3.4b debt: Oyo ex-council chiefs accuse Makinde, Assembly of witch-hunt

    The 796 ex-local government chairmen and councillors in Oyo State have accused Governor Seyi Makinde and the House of Assembly of witch-hunt them, owing to their insistence on being paid the outstanding of their salaries and allowances amounting to N3,374,889,425.60.

    The Supreme Court had, in a judgment on May 7, 2021 ordered the Oyo State Government to pay the ex-council chiefs, who the apex court found to have been unlawfully sacked on May 29, 2019 by Makinde, their salaries and allowances for the three years they ought to have served.

    By its own computation, the Oyo State Government agreed to pay N4,874,889,425.60 out of which it paid N1.5b, leaving a balance of N3,374,889,425.60, which outstanding judgment debt the Court of Appeal affirmed during a recent hearing on an appeal filed by Makinde, seeking instalment payment of the debt, which request the ex-council chiefs have faulted.

    Read Also: Traditional worshippers rejoice as Makinde declares holiday for Isese Day

    The ex-council chiefs, in a statement at the weekend, noted that a recent resolution by the House of Assembly, linking some of them with alleged act of fraud, was part of a plot to get back at them, with the intention of compelling them to abandon the outstanding judgment debt.

    They added that since March this year when they got an order to garnish the bank accounts of the state government, in an effort to retrieve the outstanding judgment debt, the government and the House of Assembly saw them as a threat and had devised means to witch-hunt them into submission, part of which was the phantom fraud claims.

    In the statement signed by three of the affected ex-council chiefs – Ayodeji Abass Aleshinloye, Bashorun Bosun Ajuwon and Oluyinka Jesutoye – they said none of them was ever invited by the House of Assembly in respect 

    of any investigation, “be it by the 9th or 10th Assembly.”

  • Oyo to complete Challenge-Odo-Ona Road in three months -Sangodoyin

    Oyo to complete Challenge-Odo-Ona Road in three months -Sangodoyin

    Oyo State government has said the 12.5 km Challenge-Odo-Ona road currently under construction would likely be completed in the next three months.

    The Commissioner for Works and Transport, Prof. Dahud Sangodoyin gave the hint while inspecting some ongoing projects in Ibadan, saying the road is not only critical to the economy of the locality, but that of the state as a whole.

    The Commissioner noted that he was impressed with the level of work done so far by the contractor, adding that the contractor is finalizing some of the pavements, laying of asphalt, and the drainage.

    According to him, the inspection is in the government’s determination to complete all projects awarded in the first term of the present administration.

    Read Also: INGOs assists 40m Nigerians with 267 projects

    Other projects inspected include the 110 Km Circular Road; the Led Gantry construction site of the Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo Airport Road and the Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo Monumental Park.

    He explained that the administration is out to check the progress of the projects and determine timelines for the completion.

    Sangodoyin said, “We just commenced Omituntun 2.0′ projects inspection, and we are starting with the Ibadan zone. We are now at Challenge-Odo-Ona road which is a 12.5 Kilometer road and what we want to check is simply the progress on the project and the timelines for the outstanding works, which will determine the possible date for the completion, and thereafter the governor will decide on the commissioning.

    Speaking on the circular road, the Commissioner made it known that the bridges and the interchanges of the South-East segment which is 32 Kilometers will be completed by December, 2023.

    He stressed that after its completion the road will eradicate traffic congestion in the metropolitan city, improve the state’s economy and create connectivity between different regions.

    Professor Sangodoyin also stated that the construction of the Led Gantry along the Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo Airport Road will be completed by the end of September, while the Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo Monumental Park will be ready on or before November, 2023.