Marwa Hails Boss Mustapha at 70: A Legacy of Integrity, Service, and Nation-Building.

Marwa Hails Boss Mustapha at 70: A Legacy of Integrity, Service, and Nation-Building.

The Adamawa Progressive Elders Council has joined family, friends, and the entire nation in celebrating the milestone 70th birthday of a distinguished legal luminary and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Barrister Boss Mustapha, CFR.

In a heartfelt tribute issued to mark the occasion on September 4, the Chairman of the Council, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), paid glowing tributes to Mustapha’s decades of meritorious service to Nigeria and his home state of Adamawa.

Describing the celebrant as a "brother and esteemed compatriot," Gen. Marwa highlighted Mustapha’s remarkable trajectory from his foundational years in the legal profession to his high-profile national assignment as the SGF. The tribute lauded how Mustapha navigated the complex intricacies of governance with a calm demeanor, steady hand, and unwavering integrity. "You have been a bridge-builder in times of division and a voice of reason in times of turbulence. To us in the Council, you are more than a member; you are a pillar of strength, a reservoir of institutional memory, and a brother whose counsel is as valued as it is insightful," Marwa stated.

Gen. Marwa noted that turning 70 is fundamentally about the lives touched rather than just the years lived. He commended the celebrant for mentoring the younger generation, guiding his peers, and serving elders with exceptional humility. The Council emphasized that despite carrying high national honors, including the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), Boss Mustapha has always approached leadership as a form of sacrifice and public service.

Welcoming the celebrant to the "7th floor" (septuagenarian status), the Council offered heartfelt prayers for his continued well-being. "May the Almighty grant you many more years in robust health and peace of mind. May your sunset years be as vibrant as the morning of your youth. You have given so much of yourself to Nigeria; it is now time for you to soak in the love, the admiration, and the deep respect that you have so richly earned."

The statement was officially signed by Ahmad Sajoh, FNIPR, Head of Media and Publicity for the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council.

Fayemi Felicitates Boss Mustapha at 70, Celebrates His Distinguished Service to Nigeria.

Fayemi Felicitates Boss Mustapha at 70, Celebrates His Distinguished Service to Nigeria.

The immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has congratulated the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

Dr Fayemi described the milestone as an opportunity to celebrate not only a remarkable personal journey, but also seven decades of service, leadership and commitment to Nigeria.

According to him, Mustapha has distinguished himself as a consummate public servant whose career has been defined by patriotism, diligence, humility and commitment to Nigeria. 

“On the occasion of your 70th birthday, I extend my best wishes to you, my dear brother and friend.

“Your remarkable journey in public service and contributions to our national life are worthy of commendation. As Secretary to the Government of the Federation, you served Nigeria with distinction at a particularly significant period in our national history, bringing to the office your experience, wisdom, calm disposition and strong sense of duty.

“Beyond the offices you have occupied, what stands out is your commitment to public service and your belief in the capacity of Nigeria to overcome its challenges and fulfil its enormous potential.”

Dr Fayemi noted that attaining the age of 70 is a significant milestone that provides an opportunity to reflect on a life of service while looking forward to many more years of impact.

He commended Mustapha for the dignity, maturity and statesmanship with which he has continued to conduct himself in and out of public life, describing these qualities as increasingly important in a nation in need of experienced voices and bridge-builders.

“Your 70th birthday is a celebration of a life that has touched many people and contributed meaningfully to our national development. At a time when Nigeria needs men and women of experience, integrity and moderation to continue contributing to the national conversation, your voice and counsel remain valuable.

“I therefore join your family, friends, associates and Nigerians across the country in celebrating you today. May the Almighty God grant you many more years in good health, peace and fulfilment, and continue to bless you with the wisdom and strength to serve humanity and our beloved country.’’

EKSCOTECH Registrar, Ayodeji, Urges Polytechnics to Embrace Digital Transformation in Registry Administration.

EKSCOTECH Registrar, Ayodeji, Urges Polytechnics to Embrace Digital Transformation in Registry Administration.

The Registrar of the Ekiti State College of Technology (EKSCOTECH), Ijero-Ekiti, Mr. Sunday Emmanuel Ayodeji, has called on Polytechnics and other tertiary institutions across the country to intensify efforts towards the digitisation of their administrative processes, particularly in the Registry, describing digital transformation as essential to efficient administration in the 21st century.

Ayodeji made the call as the Special Guest of Honour at the Second Registry Retreat of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, where he was received by the Polytechnic community in recognition of his professional relationship with the institution, having previously served there as a Deputy Registrar.

The retreat, scheduled for Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the Polytechnic’s 1,500-capacity Auditorium, has as its theme, “Enhancing Digital Skills and Professional Excellence in Registry Practice for Polytechnic Education in the 21st Century.” The invitation was formally conveyed to the EKSCOTECH Registrar by the Registrar and Secretary to Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Mr. G. A. Awe. 

Ayodeji, who attended the programme alongside senior officials from the Registry of EKSCOTECH, including Mrs. Adebomi and Mr. Yemi Adeuya, expressed delight at the remarkable transformation he observed in the Registry of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, particularly in the area of digitalisation.

Reflecting on his time at the institution, he commended the Registry for the significant progress recorded between the period he left the Polytechnic on sabbatical and the present, noting that the level of digital advancement was evidence of a conscious effort to modernise administrative operations.

He congratulated the Registry staff and the management of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, for the strides made in deploying digital tools and systems to improve their operations. According to him, the development demonstrated the importance of continuously adapting institutional administration to emerging technologies.

The EKSCOTECH Registrar also used the occasion to highlight the steps being taken by the Ekiti State College of Technology, Ijero-Ekiti, towards strengthening digitalisation within its own administrative structure.

He stressed that the transformation of Registry operations should not be viewed merely as the adoption of computers or electronic platforms, but as a broader strategy for making institutional administration faster, more efficient, accessible and responsive to the needs of staff, students and other stakeholders.

Ayodeji therefore urged other Polytechnics and tertiary institutions to key into digitalisation strategies, saying that embracing technology would enhance administrative processes and contribute significantly to improved service delivery.

He emphasised that as institutions of higher learning respond to the demands of the 21st century, their administrative structures must equally evolve, with Registry operations positioned to take advantage of technological innovations.

The EKSCOTECH Registrar's participation at the retreat also provided an opportunity for professional engagement with colleagues in the Registry and a reflection on the progress of an institution where he had previously served.

His message consequently underscored the need for continuous professional development, institutional innovation and technology-driven administration as important components of contemporary Polytechnic management.

Ayodeji's call reinforces the growing need for tertiary institutions to move beyond conventional administrative approaches and embrace digital systems capable of supporting effective records management, communication, service delivery and overall institutional efficiency.

MEAL Training Will Produce Competent M&E Officers for Ondo Water Secto ~ Expert.

MEAL Training Will Produce Competent M&E Officers for Ondo Water Secto ~ Expert.

The African Development Bank Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant, Dr. Opeyemi Adejuwan, has said the three-day Project Monitoring, Evaluation, Adaptation and Learning (MEAL) training will produce competent Monitoring and Evaluation officers capable of providing professional consultancy services and contributing to the development of Ondo State.

Participants in Technical Session.

Adejuwan stated this during the capacity-building training organised for M&E officers of the Ondo State Water Corporation and other participants under the Nigeria Urban Water Sector Reform and Akure Water Supply and Sanitation Project, which was held in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

AfDB Monitoring & Evaluation (M & E) Consultant, Dr. Opeyemi Adejuwan.

He said the training was designed to equip the participants with the knowledge, skills and professional competence required to effectively monitor and evaluate projects across their respective departments.

According to him, the participants would emerge from the training as competent consultants and specialists capable of establishing themselves professionally even after leaving the civil service.

He added that the knowledge and skills acquired would enable them to provide consultancy services to government agencies and organisations while also assisting the state in carrying out its activities across various departments.

“We are trying to build competent M&E officers within Ondo State,” Adejuwan said.

Dr. Adejuwon also emphasised that the training has been deliberately structured into four modules. This approach was adopted because MEAL is a broad and technical field that cannot be adequately covered through a one-off training.

Earlier, the Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon. Ayodele Akande (FCA), declared the training open and described capacity building as the engine of the civil service.

Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon. Ayodele Akande (FCA).

Akande said capacity building was essential to equipping workers with adequate knowledge, professional skills and competence required to provide effective and efficient service delivery.

He urged the participants to consider themselves fortunate to have benefited from the programme, saying it was designed to equip them with standard professional knowledge and practical skills that would enhance their performance.

The commissioner encouraged the participants to make maximum use of the knowledge acquired, stressing that the training was an investment in their future and professional development.

He recalled that professionals in the past had to spend their personal resources, including money, energy and time, to acquire relevant training, noting that the participants were privileged to receive the programme free of charge through the support of the Ondo State Government, the management of the Ondo State Water Corporation and the African Development Bank.

The commissioner charged them to apply the knowledge gained to their official responsibilities, particularly in monitoring and evaluating projects under their respective departments.

Akande appreciated the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his commitment and support to the water sector, while commending the management of the African Development Bank for sponsoring the training.

He stressed that the importance of capacity building could not be neglected or overlooked, describing it as a major component of an effective civil service because it equips workers with the knowledge, understanding and competence required to provide purposeful, efficient and effective service delivery across the state.

Also speaking, the AfDB Project Manager, Engr. Kehinde Michael, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa, the Commissioner and the management of the African Development Bank for supporting the training programme.

AfDB Project Manager, Engr. Kehinde Michael.

Michael explained that the programme was designed to improve the capacity of the participants, particularly in adaptation, and prepare them for future tasks and professional responsibilities.

He urged the participants to pay close attention to the training and actively participate in the sessions, describing it as a participatory programme.

The project manager expressed optimism that the knowledge acquired would contribute to the participants’ professional development and wished them successful careers.

In his remarks, the AfDB Procurement Consultant, Engr. Adebola Lawrence, urged the participants to be diligent, hardworking and committed to their duties wherever they were assigned to work in the state.

AfDB Procurement Consultant, Engr. Adebola Lawrence.

Lawrence advised them to utilise the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to carry out their responsibilities effectively and efficiently.

He stressed the need for the participants to translate the lessons learnt into practical results and maintain professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

 General Manager of the Ondo State Water Corporation, Engr. Omoge Oluwasomi Vincent.

The General Manager of the Ondo State Water Corporation, Engr. Omoge Oluwasomi Vincent, addressed the participants on the core values of the training and encouraged them to set high professional standards and maintain strong morals that would enable them to achieve positive results in their careers and lives.

Capacity Building, Engine of Civil Service, Says Hon. Ayodele Akande.

Capacity Building, Engine of Civil Service, Says Hon. Ayodele Akande.

Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon. Ayodele Akande (FCA).

The Ondo State Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Hon. Ayodele Akande (FCA), has described capacity building as the engine of the civil service, saying it provides workers with the knowledge, understanding and competence required for effective and efficient service delivery.

Akande stated this while declaring open a three-day capacity-building training on Project Monitoring, Evaluation, Adaptation and Learning (MEAL), organised for Monitoring and Evaluation officers of the Ondo State Water Corporation and other participants under the Nigeria Urban Water Sector Reform and Akure Water Supply and Sanitation Project.

Participants in Technical Session.

The training, which was held in Akure, the Ondo State capital, was aimed at strengthening the capacity of participants in project monitoring, evaluation, adaptation and learning.

The commissioner urged the participants to consider themselves fortunate to have benefited from the programme, which he said was designed to equip them with standard professional knowledge and practical skills.

He encouraged them to make maximum use of the knowledge acquired during the training, stressing that the programme was an investment in their future and professional development.

Akande recalled that professionals in the past had to spend their personal resources, including money, energy and time, to acquire relevant training, noting that the beneficiaries were privileged to receive the capacity-building programme free of charge through the support of the Ondo State Government, the management of the Ondo State Water Corporation and the African Development Bank.

The commissioner charged the participants to apply the knowledge gained to their official responsibilities, particularly in monitoring and evaluating projects under their respective departments

The Commissioner also appreciated the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his commitment and support to the water sector, while also commending the management of the African Development Bank for sponsoring the training.

The General Manager of Ondo State Water Corporation, Engr. Omoge Oluwasomi Vincent, also addressed the participants the core values of the training and encouraged them to set high professional standards and maintain strong morals that would enable them to achieve positive results in their careers and loves.

General Manager of Ondo State Water Corporation, Engr. Omoge Oluwasomi Vincent.

Speaking during the programme, the AfDB Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant, Dr. Opeyemi Adejuwan, said the training was designed to build competent M&E officers who could contribute meaningfully to the development of Ondo State.

Adejuwan said the participants were expected to emerge from the training as competent consultants and specialists capable of establishing themselves professionally, even after leaving the civil service.

AfDB Monitoring & Evaluation (M & E) Consultant, Dr. Opeyemi Adejuwan.

He explained that the skills acquired would enable them to offer consultancy services to government agencies and organisations and contribute to the activities of the state across various departments.

“We are trying to build competent M&E officers within Ondo State,” he said.

Also speaking, the AfDB Project Manager, Engr. Kehinde Michael, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa, Commissioner Akande and the management of the AfDB for supporting the training programme.

AfDB Project Manager, Engr. Kehinde Michael.

Michael explained that the programme was designed to improve the capacity of the participants, particularly in adaptation, and prepare them for future tasks and professional responsibilities.

He urged the participants to pay close attention to the training and actively participate in the sessions, describing it as a participatory programme.

He also expressed optimism that the knowledge acquired would contribute to the participants’ professional development and wished them successful careers.

AfDB Procurement Consultant, Engr. Adebola Lawrence.

The AfDB Procurement Consultant, Engr. Adebola Lawrence, urged the participants to be diligent, hardworking and committed to their duties wherever they were assigned to work in the state.

Lawrence also advised them to utilise the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to carry out their responsibilities effectively and efficiently.

Participants Group Photograph.

He stressed the need for the participants to translate the lessons learnt into practical results and maintain professionalism in the discharge of their duties.

OJUAWO COMMENCES CONSTRUCTION OF SKILL ACQUISITION CENTRE IN ISE-EKITI.

OJUAWO COMMENCES CONSTRUCTION OF SKILL ACQUISITION CENTRE IN ISE-EKITI.

In continuation of his constituency development projects, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, has commenced the construction of a Skill Acquisition Centre in Ise-Ekiti.

The project was formally launched with a turning-of-the-sod ceremony held at the BOUESTI Study Centre, Uso Road, Ise-Ekiti. The event attracted traditional rulers and chiefs, academics, opinion leaders, political leaders and members, community stakeholders, as well as well-wishers.

In his welcome address, the Project Supervisor, Engr. Gbenga Omole, welcomed guests and expressed appreciation to everyone who took time to attend the ceremony.

He explained that the project was designed to empower the teeming youth population of Ise/Orun by equipping them with practical skills that would enhance their productivity, promote self-reliance, create employment opportunities and ultimately contribute to the development of the communities.

According to him, the centre will provide training in various vocational skills, including welding and fabrication, carpentry and woodwork/furniture making, tailoring, automobile mechanics, plumbing, electrical installation, among others.

He urged the youths to take advantage of the opportunities the centre would provide upon completion, stressing that the project would serve as a platform for economic empowerment and sustainable development.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional institution, Chief Michael Ojo, the Asamo of Ise-Ekiti, commended Hon. Ojuawo for bringing what he described as a laudable and impactful project to the Ise/Orun communities.

He noted that the project would provide hope and succour to many young people while contributing significantly to the development of the community.

Addressing Hon. Ojuawo, the Asamo said:

“My dear son, whom I am well pleased with, honestly, I am extremely happy to be here to witness this project. You are doing well. My coming here is not about politics; I am here to appreciate my son with my presence. Ojuawo, it is well with you, and every next level you attain shall be your stepping stone, by the grace of God.”

He further admonished Hon. Ojuawo to continue to serve God and remain committed to serving humanity, describing him as “God’s special son.”

In his remarks, Hon. Ojuawo expressed appreciation to the people of Ise/Orun, traditional chiefs, community leaders, political leaders, APC members, associations and other stakeholders who attended the ceremony.

He assured the people that construction work would commence immediately, explaining that the location of the centre beside the BOUESTI Study Centre was deliberately chosen to complement the academic programmes of the institution.

According to him, following discussions with Elder Tunji Falana, it was agreed that the Skill Acquisition Centre should be located beside the study centre to provide the practical facilities required for courses that could not previously be offered due to inadequate infrastructure.

He further disclosed that plans were also underway to provide an additional 12 standard classrooms, with the aim of developing the facility into a campus capable of accommodating a faculty, in line with recommendations from the school management.

Ojuawo stressed that development must be prioritised based on both immediate and future needs, noting that the BOUESTI Study Centre requires additional facilities to function optimally.

“I am glad to receive everyone here today. The project will commence immediately. I discussed with Elder Tunji Falana, and we agreed to have this project beside the BOUESTI Study Centre to support courses that require practical training but could not previously be offered because of the lack of such facilities.

“I will also add 12 standard classrooms to make this place a campus that can host a faculty, as advised by the school management. Development has to be prioritised by weighing the benefits against our immediate and future needs. This centre needs more facilities to function optimally, and we are going to support them to achieve that.”»

The lawmaker also appealed to the people to continue to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging them to vote massively for the President in the 2027 general election.

“Therefore, my good people, please let us vote massively for our dear President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Let us vote overwhelmingly for him,” Ojuawo appealed.

In a similar vein, Chief Esan Ikori appealed to the people of Ise/Orun to continue supporting people-oriented programmes and initiatives being attracted to the communities through their son, Hon. Adeniyi Ojuawo.

He urged the people to sustain their support for initiatives that directly benefit the communities, stressing that abandoning certainty for uncertainty would amount to a disservice to the people.

Also speaking, Professor Kolawole commended Hon. Ojuawo for what he described as his commitment to keeping promises and his reliability in delivering on his commitments to the people.

He encouraged residents of Ise/Orun to take advantage of the presence of the BOUESTI Study Centre by enrolling for available programmes.

“The university study centre is at your doorstep. Please come over and join us,” he appealed.

In his closing remarks before the symbolic block-laying ceremony, Comrade Femi Babalola appreciated all the guests for honouring the invitation and expressed optimism that Ise/Orun communities would witness more developmental projects under the representation of Hon. Ojuawo.

Among those who attended the ceremony were High Chief Asamo; Chief Esan Ikori; Elder Tunji Falana; Prof. Kolawole; Prof. Philip Adetiloye; Baba Bode; Hon. Ropo Ogunbolude; Baba Asako; Hon. Femi Babalola; Engr. Gbenga Omole; Engr. Bayo Olotin; Engr. Sunday Aguda; Hon. Deji Ajayi; party executives; ward chairmen; community leaders and other stakeholders.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

FIRST LADY OYEBANJI CHARGES YOUTHS TO EMBRACE READING CULTURE, CULTIVATE MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS.

FIRST LADY OYEBANJI CHARGES YOUTHS TO EMBRACE READING CULTURE, CULTIVATE MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS.

Ado-Ekiti witnessed a convergence of intellectuals, academics, public servants, and other distinguished personalities as the Peace House Book Club held its 6th edition at the Shores Complex, Peace House.

The intellectual gathering featured a review of Dr Gbenga Emiloju’s compelling publication, Cultivating Strategic Relationships: The Uncommon Advantage to Achieving Personal Fulfilment, which explores the transformative power of purposeful relationships in achieving personal and professional success.

The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji, commended the Convener of the Book Club, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, for her grassroots impact and sustained commitment to promoting reading, values and human capital development.

Dr Oyebanji, who was represented at the event by her Senior Special Assistant on Advocacy, Dr Eunice Fasanmi, described the Book Club as a valuable platform for reflection, reorientation and the enhancement of positive values among citizens.

The First Lady noted that at a time when information is abundant but wisdom remains scarce, creating spaces where people can pause to read, reflect and build meaningful relationships is, in itself, a profound contribution to society.

Drawing a compelling parallel between the central message of Dr Emiloju’s book and the public service trajectory of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the First Lady demonstrated how relationships built on honour, character, trust and selfless service can shape lives and open doors to greater opportunities.

She highlighted the Governor’s journey from his formative years as a university lecturer, where he sowed seeds in young minds, to his various roles as Secretary to the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State, Chief of Staff and Secretary to the State Government, describing his journey as a living testimony to the power of strategic relationships and relational wisdom.

Unpacking three foundational lessons for personal and leadership success, Dr Oyebanji charged participants, particularly young people, to build meaningful networks before they need them, stressing that while competence and skills may attract initial attention, a proven track record and character sustain relevance over time.

She emphasised that integrity remains the most valuable currency of access in governance, business, career and family life, adding that true net worth goes beyond financial wealth to include a dependable circle of mentors, peers, friends and associates.

The intellectual tempo of the gathering was further heightened by insightful literary critiques from the lead reviewers, Hon. Fola Richie-Adewusi, a seasoned public office holder, and Prof. Oluwole Adebayo, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academics), Ekiti State University.

Prof. Adebayo provided an extensive review of the 256-page, 17-chapter publication, describing strategic relationships as vital bridges, elevators and multipliers capable of achieving what financial resources alone may not accomplish.

The event attracted an impressive array of dignitaries, including the Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, who also served as Special Guest of Honour; the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola; Director-General, Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawunmi Famuyiwa; Chairman, Senate Committee on University Ranking, EKSU, Prof. Tunde Olofinbiyi; General Manager, NTA Ado-Ekiti, Alhaji Ishaq Akande; political analyst and author, Dr Oke Aruleba; as well as Permanent Secretaries in the Office of Cabinet and Special Services and the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr (Mrs) Yemi Kayode-Ojo and Mrs Sola Adeluyi-Femi, respectively.

The 6th edition of the Peace House Book Club concluded on an inspiring note, with participants challenged to consciously examine the company they keep, nurture strong values and deliberately cultivate relationships and networks that promote personal fulfilment, professional growth and meaningful impact.

The gathering once again underscored the enduring power of books and purposeful relationships in shaping individuals, strengthening communities and building a better society.