Oyebanji Mourns Ekiti APC Leader, George Akosile.

Oyebanji Mourns Ekiti APC Leader, George Akosile.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed condolences on the passing of Afenifere chieftain and Chairman of Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders' Forum, Chief George Akosile.

The late Chief Akosile, who retired from civil service as a Permanent Secretary in the old Ondo State, and later served as State Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), died on Friday.

Mourning the loss of the elder statesman, Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said Ekiti has lost a great patriot, a servant-leader, a committed democrat and an illustrious elder, who loved the state and gave his best for its development. 

The Governor noted that the late Chief Akosile was a principled politician and an exemplary Awoist who led by example and served selflessly in all the positions he occupied in the civil service, political parties, elders' circles and in government.

He remarked that the late Chief Akosile jealously guarded his name and integrity in his public service trajectory, adding that the deceased's country home in Igbara Odo Ekiti served as a Mecca for those who needed his wise counsel, guidance and direction on how the state could move forward.

Describing the late Chief Akosile's demise as a personal loss to him, the Governor said the deceased was a leader he looked up to as a young politician, adding that he had lost a political father whose life was an inspiration to him and those coming behind.

According to him, the late Chief Akosile shone brilliantly in the last major assignment he handled on behalf of the party, as the Chairman of Political Appointments Committee of his administration, adding that he gave his best shot despite being advanced in age.

He said the late Chief Akosile's faithful, honest and truthful lifestyle had always made him relevant in every progressive administration in the old Ondo State and Ekiti State which led to his being entrusted with positions of leadership in which he served to the best of his ability.

The Governor said Ekiti State and its people will remain ever grateful to the deceased for his selfless service and laudable contribution to the entrenchment of democracy and the development of the state.

Oyebanji commiserated with the family, friends and political associates of the deceased urging them to be consoled by the good life he lived and the worthy legacies he has left behind.

“We shall miss Baba. But we are  consoled with the fact he lived a good life and left behind legacies of integrity and service. 

“ On behalf of the Government and good people of the State, I express our condolences to the children and immediate family members and pray that God will grant Baba eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.” The Governor added.

Meanwhile, the Governor has paid a condolence visit to the deceased residence in Igbara Oke, where he met with the children and family members.

President Tinubu Restates Priority Areas On Development, Seeks Support From Governors.

President Tinubu Restates Priority Areas On Development, Seeks Support From Governors.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Thursday in Abuja said the task of turning around Nigeria’s economy from the age-long status of “potential to pragmatic’’ had started with the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates, urging the 36 state governors to join the fray.

Inaugurating the National Economic Council (NEC), an advisory body comprising the 36 state Governors, CBN Governor, and other stakeholders, at the State House, President Tinubu listed eight priority areas for urgent attention and called for collective frameworks that will stimulate a buoyant economy that meets the needs of the poor and vulnerable.

The President assured the governors that the administration would address the issues that devalue the lives of Nigerians, with a focus on security, economy, jobs, agriculture, infrastructure, monetary policy, and fuel subsidy.

“It is worthy of note that the monthly meeting of NEC chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima has remained officially the economic platform for robust dialogue among the federal government, the 36 state governors, the CBN, and other key stakeholders.

“In my inaugural speech of May 29th, 2023, I expressed this administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians in a manner that not just reflects our humanity, but encourages compassion towards one another and duly rewards our collective efforts to resolve the social ills that seek to divide us. 

“I also listed the principles that will guide our administration and it is as follows: to be partial and govern according to the constitution and ensure the rule of law;  to defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality; to promote economic growth and development through job creation, food security and putting an end to poverty; to prominently feature women and youths in all our activities; to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture and; to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of various anti-corruption agencies,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu noted that policies and programmes of the government will be driven by compassion for the less privileged, and for more inclusivity, women and youths will be involved in the design and implementation of issues that impact their lives.

“It is evident that the task of growing our economy is enormous but you and I asked for it. We campaigned for it, we even danced for it, we begged for it, so we have no reason to complain. We must harness the growth potential of Nigeria and bring about serious development that will take us from 'a potential nation' to a pragmatic economic development in a rapid manner,’’ he noted.

President Tinubu urged NEC to stimulate ideas, through robust discussions, that will improve the livelihood of Nigerians, while highlighting the exigency for interventions on poverty.

“Members of this country are behind us, they want reform and they want it quick to impact their lives,’’ he added.

Rallying the governors for national development, President Tinubu said, “Collaboration is not a crime, please let’s do it.’’ 

The President noted that the three tiers of government will need to be involved in economic development, including the Local Government Councils, in order to ensure inclusiveness, collectivity, and ownership of policies and programmes.

“The National Economic Council was established by the provision of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. As one of the key bodies of the Federal Government,  NEC has the mandate to advise the President on the economic affairs of the federation on appropriate measures for coordination of economic plans and programmes of the government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,’’ he said.

The President emphasized that significant steps had been taken by ending the fuel subsidy and unifying the foreign exchange rate.

“This government will continue to transform the fortunes of our nation and bring about unprecedented development through good governance. We are committed to sustainable initiatives and programmes that will stimulate the rejuvenation of the economy without causing inflation.

“The plans and ideas we have presented, underscore our confidence and ability to meet the challenges of the day and pave the way for a better future,’’ President Tinubu said.

 

Abiodun Oladunjoye

Director, Information

State House

June 15, 2023

Transfer of Power Temporarily to Ondo Deputy Governor, A Show of Civility and Respect for Rule of Law.

Transfer of Power Temporarily to Ondo Deputy Governor,  A Show of Civility and  Respect for Rule of Law.

The action of the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu to have willingly resolved to transmit power temporarily to the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa is a show of civility and absolute respect for the rule of law by a man who understands the reason why government must be a continuum. His action today finally doused the tension and rumor mongers and unscrupulous political gladiators and actors from various quarters in and outside the state trying to heat up the sunshine state,the political system and cause disaffetions among political leaders.

 Yes, it is absolutely expected that no artificial lacuna must be created in government as authority and the responsibilities of government  must be discharged at all times unabated and unhindered. If there is any reason whatsoever for a gap  by reasons of incapacitation of any sort, power must be transferred in the most decent manner which requires to be done in strict adherence to the dictates of the constitution. This act of civility and decorum by the Governor of the state is highly commendable and should be acknowledged by all. 

This press statement is hereby issued by the  Ondo State chapter as the noble group admonish the acting Governor, and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to live up to expectation as he discharges his duties in acting capacity henceforth.

 He is advised to shun distractors and focus on the activities of government by  implementing programmes outlined in the Redeemed Agenda of Mr. Governor which is already being implemented since the commencement of his second term in office.

Omoluabi Socio- cultural amd political group, Ondo State Chapter under the leadership of Engr. Aluko Taiyelolu however wish the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu a quick recovery with divine healing to be able to provide good governnace to the state  unhindered.

Let the sun continue to shine.

E- Signed:

Omoluabi Aluko Taiyelolu 

Ondo State Coordinator

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio- cultural and Political Group.

13/6/2023

Meet Nigerian Professor Who Drove Peugeot 504 From London To Kano In 24 days.

Meet Nigerian Professor Who Drove Peugeot 504 From London To Kano In 24 days.

Professor Aminu Mohammed Dorayi is a renowned educationist and adventurer that drove from London to Kano with his car.

The elder statesman is a Record-breaker, who broke a world record by driving his Peugeot 504 over a distance of about 4,000miles, in 24 days.

Prof Dorayi is a distinguished Abusite (Ahmadu Bello University) and respected professor of Chemistry. He doubled as a former president of the ABU Students Union Government (SUG) for 1966/1967. Dorayi set up the Sharada Industrial Estate in Kano. He is also the first to organize trade fair in Nigeria.

He is called The Adventurous Chemist because of his passion for adventure. While in the UK, his journey was inspired by several adventure books he had read. For instance, he read about the Marcopolos, the Mungo Parks, these adventurous stories fascinated him.

Dorayi, therefore proceded to make a record-breaking trip by driving his Peugeot 504 over a distance of about 4,000miles in 24 days.

According to the elder statesman, “England is an Island. So when you reach Southampton you have to take a boat, you and your car, to Calais, France. I drove through Paris and so on through Madrid, Gibraltar. So when you reach Gibraltar, you reach the Mediterranean Sea, where you also take a ferry to Algeria.

"From there you enter the road all through, though there is no road, in the desert, you’re guided by your compass, your map.”

Speaking further on the trip, Prof disclosed that ”I became very keen during my PhD in the US. I had a Volkswagen which I bought for about 600 dollars at that time. I used it to drive across the desert over there.” He added that he is highly adventurous, that is why even his autobiography is titled, The Adventurous Chemist.

Dorayi disclosed that as he bought the Peugeot 504 for 1000 pounds and hit the road immediately.

He said, ”I was assisted by the British Automobile Association (AA). They gave me the guidelines, the map, the route. They told me what to do in crossing the desert, and what not to do. So, I was quite prepared.

Speaking of his preparedness, Doriya said, ”Since I went to secondary technical school, I was technically inclined and I could service my car. I came from a technical background. Going back to Zango in Kano and hanging out with friends, they taught me confidence. So this thing has been in me for years. I enjoyed reading about trans-Sahara.

In his encounter, Doriya noted that ”There was a place I passed in Algeria, and the day I arrived, it was raining heavily. Little children of 13 years and below were running helter-skelter and crying. When I asked the elders why they said those children had never seen rain before. No rain for 14 years, so they thought heaven was falling. They had to be counselled by their elders.”

#Northbook

10th NASS Inuaguration: Ekiti Lawmaker, Odebunmi Congratulates Senator Fasuyi, Hon. Rotimi, Promises Partnership.

10th NASS Inuaguration: Ekiti Lawmaker, Odebunmi Congratulates Senator Fasuyi, Hon. Rotimi, Promises Partnership.

Earlier today Ekiti state House of Assembly Lawmaker, representing Oye constituency II, Hon. Idowu Odebunmi, has extended congratulatory hand to the lawmaker representing Ekiti State North Senatorial District, Senator Cyril Fasuyi and member representing Ekiti Federal Constituency I, comprising Oye & Ikole at the House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Rotimi on their inauguration.

In a statement made available to the newsmen in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state capital Hon. Odebunmi expressed his excitement with the two lawmakers for the opportunity to serve at the highest law making institutions of the country with a prayer to God for success in all their endeavors to make Ekiti great and strength to deliver well.

The Oye born, breed and grassroot politician assured that through God's gifts with their policies and agendas will bring positive impact to the Senatorial District,  the Constituency and Ekiti state at large.

Hon. Odebumi expressed his readiness to work hand in hand with the two federal Lawmakers to promote good governance and bring development to the state, constituency and bring Government closer to the people.

Oyebanji Congratulates Akpabio, Abass, New Ekiti NASS Members.

Oyebanji Congratulates Akpabio, Abass, New Ekiti NASS Members.

...urged Ekiti Lawmakers to be good ambassadors of the state.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. @biodunaoyebanji, has congratulated the new President of the Nigeria Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio and the new Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass on their election to their new offices on Tuesday.

The Governor also congratulated the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu on their emergence after their election by fellow lawmakers.

Oyebanji equally congratulated the three new Senators and six new House of Representatives members from Ekiti State urging them to be good ambassadors of their state and agents of positive change in their new assignments.

Governor Oyebanji who at the National Assembly to witness the inaugural session, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the newly elected presiding officers for the two Chambers of the National Assembly as experienced legislators who are worthy of the offices for which they were chosen by their party and their colleagues.

The Gov urged Akpabio & Abass to use their new positions to assist President in translating his Renewed Hope agenda into reality to meet the expectations of Nigerians who invested their votes in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Congratulating the new National Assembly members from Ekiti State on their inauguration as federal legislators, Oyebanji urged them to use their new positions to give quality representation to their constituents and always promote the interests of their state.

He said the state is delighted to have Senators Opeyemi Bamidele, Yemi Adaramodu, Cyril Fasuyi and Representatives Olusola Fatoba, Femi Bamisile, Biodun Omoleye, Adeniyi Ojuawo, Akintunde Rotimi and Akinlayo Kolawole as its ambassadors in the National Assembly, urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them. 

The Governor charged them to understand that time is not on their side enjoining them to hit the ground running immediately and give their best shot to their primary assignments of lawmaking, performance of oversight functions and effective representation of their people.

He advised the returning members among them to utilize their privileged positions for the benefit of their people while the first time members should also work hard to make a difference and etch their names in gold.

Oyebanji said his administration would always work in collaboration with the National Assembly members to ensure that Ekiti gets its own fair share of the harvest of good governance, people- oriented policies, life changing project and human capital development for the benefit of its people.

EKITI, UN-HABITAT SIGN MoU ON URBAN DEVELOPMENT PLANS, OTHERS.

EKITI, UN-HABITAT SIGN MoU ON URBAN DEVELOPMENT PLANS, OTHERS.

The Government of Ekiti State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UN Human Settlement Programme (UN-Habitat) in Nairobi, Kenya. Ekiti State was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Honourable Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Akin Oyebode  and Director-General, Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA), Mr. Ayo Aribidara. 

The Secretary to the Ekiti State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro signed the document on behalf of Ekiti State and it was counter-signed by Mr Sylla Oumar, the Director of the UN-Habitat African Regional Office.

The main objective of the MoU is to foster collaboration in the implementation of activities geared towards regional spatial planning, preparation of urban development plans and urban renewal for Ekiti State. 

It is expected that this significant collaboration will strengthen institutional capacities of key actors in local participatory physical planning to manage urban development and also enhance access to serviced land to facilitate sustainable development in the State.

The Biodun Oyebanji administration is committed to the socio- economic development of the state and will continue to partner with relevant institutions, development agencies and private entities in the quest to advance the state economy, create more opportunities for the citizens in line with its shared prosperity agenda.

Yinka Oyebode 

Special Adviser ( Media) to the Governor 

13-06- 2023