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International Literacy Day: Sanwo-Olu’s EKOEXCEL transforming literacy, numeracy in public schools

By Olawale Afolabi

In commemoration of International Literacy Day observed on the 8th of September the effort of EKOEXCEL at improving Literacy and Numeracy skills among pupils in Lagos State owned schools must be commended.

This initiative of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu started in 2019, has emerged as an example of how literacy and numeracy can be revitalised to build a brighter future for thousands of children.

UNESCO’s International Literacy Day was introduced to spotlight the crucial role of literacy in transforming societies and fostering peace and sustainability. Unfortunately, Africa has grappled with low literacy rates for years, with Nigeria being no exception. Statistics have indicated that a significant portion of the Nigerian population struggles with literacy, hindering social and economic development.

In a recent interview on EKO FM, Comrade Akintoye Hassan, Chairman of the National Union of Teachers (NUT) Lagos Chapter, emphasised that literacy forms the bedrock of education. He acknowledged that literacy begins at home, with mothers playing a pivotal role in shaping a child’s future through proper nutrition and early engagement with learning materials.

Hassan also highlighted the changing societal values, noting that teachers’ importance has sometimes been overlooked. Yet, he expressed hope that programs like EKOEXCEL are working diligently to restore the reverence and admiration that educators deserve.

Nduka Akujobi, EKOEXCEL support team Director of Academics who was also present at the interview, provided insights into the program’s remarkable impact. Despite a UNICEF report revealing concerns about learning levels in Nigeria, Lagos State has been actively addressing these issues. Akujobi explained how the program has transformed learning environments into joyful and technology-driven spaces.

Read Also: LASUBEB inaugurates EKOEXCEL’s situation room

One of the most remarkable achievements showcased during this International Literacy Day celebration is the substantial improvement in literacy and numeracy levels among primary school pupils in Lagos State. Prior to the launch of EKOEXCEL in 2019, 40% of primary school pupils in the state were unable to read a single word. Within three years, this statistic has been halved, with only 19% of pupils unable to read a single word.

These outcomes underscore the efficacy of EKOEXCEL’s contemporary teaching methodologies and Lagos State’s commitment to prioritising education. The program’s positive reinforcement approach, which discourages corporal punishment and rewards good behaviour in the classroom, has played a pivotal role in achieving significant progress.

Additionally, the Lagos State government has consistently updated the curriculum to meet global standards, ensuring that pupils are well-equipped to compete on the global stage.

On this International Literacy Day, Comrade Akintoye Hassan’s interview on EKO FM stands as a powerful testament to the EKOEXCEL program’s transformative impact on education in Lagos State. The journey to enhancing literacy and numeracy levels continues, but the remarkable progress made thus far underscores the dedication of educators and the state government’s commitment to delivering quality education to all.

In addition to these achievements, it’s worth noting that the 2023 National Common Entrance Examination saw pupils from Lagos State public primary schools excel. Eighteen pupils under the EKOEXCEL program participated in the examination, with an impressive 50% of them scoring 70% and above. The top-performing pupils have not only excelled but have also brought pride and recognition to Lagos State, solidifying its position as a leader in educational excellence.

The best performing pupils, once again put Lagos State and EKOEXCEL on the map with their exceptional results, running closely behind the national best pupil who scored 203 over 210.

The top three EKOEXCEL pupils, all girls, Ololade Ganiyat of St Mary’s Convent Primary School, Ugwu Victoria of Enitan Primary School and Chima Faith Mesomachukwu from Community Nursery & Primary School Ijeododo achieved exceptional scores of 199, 191, and 185 respectively.

As UNESCO International Literacy Day 2023 is commemorated, EKOEXCEL’s journey in improving literacy and numeracy is worth highlighting.

The program’s successes, evidenced by improved learning outcomes and better performance in national examinations, highlight its pivotal role in building a brighter future.

Afolabi, writes from Lagos.

September 7, 2023
Otedola extols Sanwo-Olu on Lagos Blue Rail take-off
- Businessman rallies support for governor
Billionaire businessman and Geregu Power Plc Chairman Femi Otedola yesterday extolled Lagos State Governor over the take-off of the Blue Light Rail’s commercial services.

Otedola, a Director in First Bank Holdings Plc, urged Lagosians to support the Sanwo-Olu administration in his stride to deliver on more world-class infrastructure for residents.

In a statement yesterday, Otedola said the completion and launch of the project which was initiated by the Lagos government several in 2003, should excite everyone.

On Monday, the governor flagged off the commercial operations of the passenger train when he joined others in the company of party leaders by riding on the trip from Marina Terminal to Mile-2 Station.

The governor, was the first passenger at the Marina Station of the Blue Line Rail. The ride took about 25 minutes with a 90-second stoppage at each of the five stations before the final destination.

Read ALso: BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu sends new nominee list to Assembly

Commenting on the development, Otedola said: “This should gladden and make every Lagosian proud. This is because the idea of governance is to build world class infrastructure for the people to benefit.”

He commended the governor for his focused leadership and determination to transform the state with world class infrastructure in the area of transportation, health, security, power generation and transmission and enabling business environment.

The business mogul went on: “The governor is showing uncommon leadership, focus determination, willpower to deliver even in the face of very limited resources available to him. He has remained undeterred and unwavering. This particular rail, even though it took so long to complete, he has shown tremendous courage that he is capable of doing the heavy lifting.

“This is a signature project that he is bequeathing to Lagosians. To even think that the red line is coming up soon is also something to rejoice about.”

Otedola pointed out that the rail infrastructure will not only make life easier for residents, but bring comfort in the reduction of travel time ease traffic within metropolitan Lagos.

He enjoined other states to take a cue from Lagos in his infrastructure drive, urging well-meaning Nigerians to support the Sanwo-Olu government in its determination lift the state.

“I call on other state governors to learn from Lagos and replicate same in their respective states,” Otedola said.

He urged residents to protect the ultra-modern facility, which he noted, the state provided for their benefit.

The Blue Line Rail project was constructed by the Lagos State Government and supervised by the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), as part of the development and improved intermodal transport system in the state.

The rail line project was initiated by the then administration of former governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but its implementation began during the administration of his successor, Babatunde Fashola.

The first phase, spanning 13 kilometers from Marina on Lagos Island to Mile 2 on the Lagos-Badagry corridor, was completed by the Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

It was inaugurated in January by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Red Line Rail project, now 96 per cent completed, will be launched by President Tinubu before December.
September 6, 2023
Sanwo-Olu launches distribution of food palliatives to 500,000 households

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has launched the distribution of palliatives to 500,000 vulnerable people, to ameliorate the suffering of residents.

Speaking during the distribution at the Lagos House, Sanwo-Olu said the measures were put in place to alleviate the suffering of Lagosians.

He said: “These palliative measures, which are already being implemented, include 50 per cent reduction in transportation cost in the government-owned bus system and free health services for expectant mothers in government hospitals, among others. One of the measures, which we announced and is being formally launched today, is the distribution of food items to vulnerable households through the Lagos Food Bank Programme.”

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu joins passengers on blue rail’s maiden commercial ride

The governor added: “The strategic goal of this programme is to reach 500,000 vulnerable households in the state with staple food items using two methodologies – bulk food items (50kg rice, 50kg garri and 100kg beans) for groups, and food boxes (10kg rice, 5kg garri and 5kg beans) for individual vulnerable households. The distribution of the food items to vulnerable households will be done through groups, institutions, non-governmental organisations, community development committees, people living with disability and social protection department in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget, using the social register of the vulnerable in the state.”

September 6, 2023
Lagos commissioners: Sanwo-Olu drops five names in new list

Five names were dropped in the new list of commissioners-nominees sent by Lagos state governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, to the House of Assembly.

The affected nominees are Folashade Adefisayo (Education), Solape Hammond (SDG), Aramide Adeyoye (Works and Infrastructure), Lekan Fatodu, and Rotimi Ogunwuyi.

They were replaced by six new names – Afolabi Tajudeen, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, Tolani Sule-Akibu, Yekini Agbaje, Iyabode Ayoola, and Sola Giwa.

Clerk of the House of Assembly, Olalekan Onafeko, read the governor’s letter during plenary yesterday.

The speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, thus directed the screening committee, led by the Chief Whip, Fatai Mojeed, to reconvene and start screening the nominees on Tuesday, September 5.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu: 4m Cowry Card now in circulation

The committee is to report back to the House on Thursday.

The governor’s letter reads: “After careful consideration of the 17 names that were rejected, I have decided to represent a list of nominees which includes a balanced selection of previously presented and new individuals. This list represents a broad political spectrum and diverse backgrounds reflective of the rich diversity of our lovely state. I am confident these new nominees would bring fresh ideas that would help the growth and progress of Lagos.”

Other names on the list are former commissioners Gbenga Omotoso (Information and Strategy); Prof. Akin Abayomi (Health); Olalere Odusote (Energy); Cecila Dada (Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation); Sam Egube (Economic Planning and Budget); as well as Folashade Ambrose-Medem, Yomi Olorunyomi, Rotimi Fashola, Mosopefolu George, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, Mrs. Barakat Bakare, and Olumide Oluyinka.

Meanwhile, the House of Assembly has resolved to review the performance of the 2023 budget in preparation for the presentation of the 2024 budget estimate by Governor Sanwo-Olu. The House approved N1.768 trillion for the Year 2023.

Obasa urged the committee for the budget review, headed by Sa’ad Olumo, to ensure a proper review and make its report available to the House.

September 4, 2023
BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu sends new nominee list to Assembly

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has transmitted a second list of cabinet member-nominees to the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Former Commissioners for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi and former Commissioner for Information in the state, Olugbenga Omotoso made the new list.

Here is a list of commissioner-nominees

1. Dr. Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen

2. Mr. Oluwaseun Oriyomi Osiyemi

3. Prof. Akinola Emmanuel Abayomi

4. Engr. Olalere Odusote

Read Also: BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu flags off Lagos Blue rail operations from Marina to Mile 2

5. Dr. Oluwarotimi Omotola Wahab Fashola

6. Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Ambrose-Medem

7. Mr. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

8. Mr. Samuel Egube

9. Hon. Tolani Sule Akibu

10. Mrs. Bolaji Cecelia Dada

11. Mrs. Barakat Akande Bakare

12. Mr. Olugbenga Omotoso

13. Mr. Mosopefolu George

14. Yekini Nurudeen Agbaje

15. Dr. Olumide Oluyinka

16. Mr. Abayomi Samson Oluyomi

17. Dr. Iyabode Oyeyemi Ayoola

18. Hon. Sola Shakirudeen Giwa

Shortly…

September 4, 2023
Full list of Commissioner Nominees Gov Sanwo-Olu resubmitted

Prof. Akin Abayomi

Gbenga Omotosho

Sam Egube

Oluwaseun Oriyomi Osiyemi

Afolabi Abiodun Tajudeen

Engr. Olalere Odusote

Folashade Kaosarat Ambrose-Medem

Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe

Tolani Sule Akibu

Cecilia Dada

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu: 4m Cowry Card now in circulation

Barakat Akande Bakare

Mosopefoluwa George

Yekini Nurudeen Agbaje

Olumide Oluyinka

Abayomi Samson Oluyomi

Iyabode Oyeyemi Ayoola

Sola Shakirudeen Giwa

September 4, 2023
Sanwo-Olu: 4m Cowry Card now in circulation

About four million Cowry Cards are now in circulation, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said on Monday.

He stated this after the historic ride on the Lagos Blue line, which began commercial operation.

Sanwo-Olu who was dressed in blue coloured LAMATA long sleeve shirt and fez cap, was accompanied by his wife, Dr Ibijoke; Deputy Governor Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, former Deputy Governor Femi Pedro and other top government officials, party chieftains and other captains of the private sector.

They rode from Mile 2 to Marina where he saluted Lagosians for their resilience and patience which finally saw the delivery of the train service.

He stated this just as he disclosed that the Red Line Train, would be delivered before the end of the year.

From next month, however, the government would commence the commissioning of the bridges for pedestrians and vehicular movement.

Among such bridges that would be opened for movement are the Ikeja Along bridge; Mushin Bridge; Yaba Bridge and Oyingbo bridge among others.

Read Also: BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu flags off Lagos Blue rail operations from Marina to Mile 2

Thereafter, the government will also ensure that all the train stations along the Red line corridor are commissioned while the final leg of the commissioning would be the rail line itself which, he said the President would come to commission before the end of the year.

Sanwo-Olu also explained said the Lagos State Residents’ Card obtained from (LASRA) can also be used to board the train.

While urging especially school children to use the LASRA card, the Governor said the card has a chip that could be loaded with cash and used to board the train system.

He said the train is the demonstration of the commitment of his government to ensuring the full integration of intermodal transportation in the state, adding that with the train, the government has provided yet another transit mode for the people of the state.

September 4, 2023
BREAKING: Sanwo-Olu flags off Lagos Blue rail operations from Marina to Mile 2

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has flagged off the commercial operations of Blue Line Rail in the state.

The Nation reports the railway system was commissioned in January 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Blue Line Rail will move from Marina to Mile 2.

Read Also: 20 things to know about Lagos Blue rail line

Sanwo-Olu was the first passenger at the Marina station. He was joined by other dignitaries to test-run the commerical operations.

The Managing Director, Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority, Mrs Abimbola Akinajo said from Tuesday, September 5, partial passenger operations will start from 6:30am to 10am, for morning peak; and for afternoon peak, from 4pm to 9:30pm.

These operations, according to Akinajo, will start with 12 trips for two weeks, which will later be increased up to 76 trips per day.

Details shortly…

September 4, 2023
Sanwo-Olu takes over medical expenses of teenager with missing intestine

The Lagos State Governor, Bababjide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday visited 13-year-old Adebola Akin-Bright, the boy whose mother alleged his intestines were harvested during surgical procedures in the hospital.

Adebola had been receiving treatment at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, after undergoing corrective surgeries following two previous procedures at a private facility in the state.

Sanwo-Olu, who visited the teenager at LASUTH following the viral allegations made by his mother, promised that the state would foot all bills necessary to ensure that Adebola’s life was saved.

Adebola’s mother, Mrs. Deborah Akin-Bright, in a Safe Our Soul (SoS) message via social media, reached out to Governor Sanwo-Olu, appealing for a probe into the mysterious disappearance of her son’s small intestine.

Read Also: Illegal mining: FG will introduce mines police, security tax force, says Alake

According to her, the incident happened while her son was receiving treatment at LASUTH.

But LASUTH management, in a statement on Saturday said Adebola’s intestines were not wilfully removed during a corrective surgery on him, clarifying that the teenager earlier underwent surgery at a private hospital.

”Adebola required extensive optimisation in our facility before a corrective surgery could be carried out. During the surgery, which was carried out by an experienced pediatric surgeon and her team, certain strange findings were noticed. There is a video clip of these findings. The mother was informed about these findings but she appeared to be in denial,” the statement read.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, after listening to the mother and the doctor in-charge of Adebola’s case, promised to do everything humanly possible to save Adebola’s life.

Mrs. Akin-Bright thanked the governor for his visit and for the gesture.

September 4, 2023
Immigration Comptroller begs Sanwo-Olu for land

The new Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Command, Mr. Bala Dangana, yesterday visited Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the State House, Marina.

Delivering the message of the Ag. Comptroller-General of Immigration Service (CGI), Caroline Adepoju, Dangana reminded the governor of his promise to give the Service a land to build a world-class immigration complex in Lagos.

He assured him of the CGI’s pledge to utilise the land, once granted.

Read Also: NAICOM, Reps differ over investment in housing sector

He also informed the governor of the CGI’s assurance to “redouble its effort towards ensuring that Lagos State and indeed Nigeria is safe from cross-border-crime through an improved migration management strategy, ensuring improvement in service delivery to Nigerians across all our service windows, while maintaining a zero tolerance for corruption and corrupt practices.”

Comptroller Dangana acknowledged the immense logistic support the command had received from the governor’s administration, especially in the area of donation of operational vehicles through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) and his approval of the service’s request to furnish its newly constructed command complex at Alagbon Close.”

September 1, 2023