Ekiti First Lady Identifies Football As Avenue To Empower Girl Child.

Ekiti First Lady Identifies Football As Avenue To Empower Girl Child.

.....Commended for support to Ekiti Queens FC.

....Invited to Women Football League General Assembly.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged parents to encourage their female children to participate in sporting activities especially football to make name and money for themselves and their families.

Dr. Oyebanji said sports development is very central to the Ekiti development agenda of her husband, Governor Biodun Oyebanji and has been recognized as a big business that can be tapped into to take the state's economy to greater heights and generate more employment opportunities.

The First Lady made the remarks on Wednesday when she hosted members of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Board led by the Chairman, Ms. Nkechi Obi, who were on a visit to the state to commend her support for female football especially Ekiti Queens Football Club.

Ms. Obi, who doubles as a board member of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), also led other executive members to the state to intimate football stakeholders on the agenda of the NWFL Board for the development of female football in Ekiti and others states in Nigeria.

Ms. Obi also used the forum to officially invite Ekiti First Lady to the NWFL Annual General Assembly (AGA) holding on 5th October, 2023 as a special guest of honour in recognition of her contribution to female football in the state.

Dr. Oyebanji who was represented by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, said she was impressed by the Women Football Right Strategy which was unveiled by the NWFL boss noting that Ekiti was ready to key into the blueprint to give a lift to female football in the state.

According to her, the Oyebanji Administration places much premium on human capital development noting that the state government was ready to join hands with the NWFL in ensuring that the vision as contained in the Strategy is actualized to the benefit of all stakeholders.

The First Lady also commended the Ekiti State House of Assembly for the speedy passage of the bill for the establishment of the Ekiti State Sports Commission to ensure that sports gets adequate attention its deserves and also serves as a springboard for empowerment and to be driven as business and not as a leisure only.

She said: "Sports development is central in Ekiti development agenda and for us in Ekiti, sports is a very big business. I also want to appeal to parents to encourage our female children to participate in sports especially football.

"Football is a good avenue to empower girls and so parents must support their girl child in ensuring that they are not discouraged at that. We know that traditionally football is a male dominated sport but things are changing and eyes are opening."

The First Lady restated her readiness to always give maximum support to Ekiti Queens Football Club and make it a recognized brand in sports and an instrument to empower Ekiti girls economically and socially.

She urged players, coaches, administrators and other officials of the Club to always work together as a team to realize the state government's ambition of making it a number one female football club in the country.

Earlier in her remarks, NWFL Chairman, Ms. Obi said the Board came to Ekiti to share its vision and agenda for development of female football league because of the recognition of the roles of the First Lady and other stakeholders in female football.

She equally noted that since majority of football clubs in Nigeria are owned by state governments, they are in the state to acquaint them with the right steps to take to broaden the scope of female football league as it concerns stakeholders like players, coaches referees, administrators, among others.

Ms. Obi unveiled the initiatives to include capacity development, more media presence for female clubs on digital media, sponsorship packages, mentoring and twinning with clubs in Spain, Italy, Germany, among others and discovery of more talents for national teams.

The NWFL chair disclosed that the league has been redesigned from next season into a 16-team Premier League, 20-team Championship and State Leagues for players between age 14 and 19 while a coaching development programme is coming up in February.

She added: "For all these to happen, we need the support of all of you stakeholders and we want to tap into the generosity of the First Lady for Ekiti to benefit from all these programmes we have outlined."

The event was attended by Chairman, Ekiti State Football Association, Chief Olu Oloworemo; former Chairman, Ekiti State Sports Council, Hon. Ade Adetola; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Bamidele Arowosola; Chairman, Ekiti Assembly Committee on Sports, Hon. Idowu Odebunmi; former General Manager, Ekiti State Sports Council, Chief Deji Samo; serving and retired referees, sports administrators, players and officials of Ekiti Queens.

Comrade Ojo Bright Accused of Selling Out Principles in Ondo State Deputy Governor's Impeachment Saga.

Comrade Ojo Bright Accused of Selling Out Principles in Ondo State Deputy Governor's Impeachment Saga.

In an astonishing twist of events, Comrade Ojo Bright, a guy among union comrades, has found himself embroiled in controversy surrounding the impeachment saga of the Deputy Governor of Ondo State. Bright's involvement took an unexpected turn when he spearheaded a protest against a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which had ordered a halt to the impeachment proceedings.

The court's decision to suspend the Deputy Governor's impeachment sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Ondo State. However, Comrade Ojo Bright's actions raised eyebrows and triggered a fierce debate within the union and the public at large.

What added a layer of complexity to this situation was the fact that Bright rallied a small group of individuals, who were allegedly unrelated to the youth of Ondo State or the union comrades, to join him in the protest. His fellow comrades opted not to participate in this demonstration, signaling a clear divergence in principles and objectives within the union.

This divergence has fueled speculation that Bright might have been influenced or compromised by external forces, often referred to as "cabals," who have a vested interest in removing the Deputy Governor from office. The suspicion of external interference has further deepened the rift within the union.

The actions of Comrade Ojo Bright have ignited a fiery debate among union members and the general public. Some perceive his actions as a betrayal of the core principles of unionism, which traditionally stand for justice and the protection of democratic institutions. Others, however, believe that there may be concealed motives behind Bright's decision to protest against the court's ruling.

As the controversy continues to simmer, many are anxiously awaiting a response from Comrade Ojo Bright. It is hoped that his explanation will shed light on his motivations and address the concerns raised by his comrades and the public. Clarity on this matter could help heal the growing rift within the union and provide a path forward for resolving the Deputy Governor's impeachment saga.

In the midst of this turmoil, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize peace and unity in Ondo State. The state has already witnessed its fair share of political turbulence, and further division could have detrimental consequences for its citizens. It is advisable for union comrades and other stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and find common ground to navigate through this challenging period in the state's political landscape. In doing so, they can ensure that the interests of the people of Ondo State are protected and that justice prevails.

Written By Bayo Akintunde A Public Analyst.

(Ifon, Ondo state)

Ekiti State Government Appoints New Tutor-General.

Ekiti State Government Appoints New Tutor-General.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Mr Victor Oludiran Amele as the new Tutor-General (TG) in The Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission.

The appointment of Mr. Amele as Tutor-General in charge of the Ekiti

Central Education District was sequel to the retirement of Mr. Martins Temitayo Ilori who bowed out of service after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 years of age and his 34 meritorious years in service as well.

Until his appointment, Mr. Amele was the Principal of Doherty Memorial Grammar School, Ijero Ekiti and President of the Ekiti State Branch of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS).

In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of TESCOM, Mr Michael Omolayo enjoined the new appointee to justify the confidence repose in him, by putting in his best in the new assignment.

Mr Omolayo charged the new Tutor-General to key into the Educational Reform Development Agenda and Values Orientation of the

present administration.

The PS emphasized that the elevation was in line with the principle of merit based appointment enshrined in the Civil Service Transformation Strategy, previous achievements,  performance in the qualifying, examination and interview as well as recognition of seniority in service.

He congratulated Mr Martins Temilayo Ilori the recently retired Tutor-General for his meritorious service and wished him success and the best in his future endevours.

In his remarks, the new Tutor-General, Mr. Amele expressed gratitude to the State Governor for giving him the opportunity to serve the State in the new capacity and pledged to do his best to achieve the

desired goals.

He noted that the new appointment will enable him to further contribute to actualizing Human Capital Development which is one of the six point developmental agenda of the present administration.

Adejoke Ajayi,

Chief Information Officer,

TESCOM

We’ll Provide Enabling Environment for Business to Thrive– Shettima.

We’ll Provide Enabling Environment for Business to Thrive– Shettima.

•••Charges MTN to fastrack digital mobile money, education.

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s determination to provide the enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the country. 

Accordingly, he tasked local and foreign investors to make Nigeria their investment hub.

The Vice President who made the pledge when he hosted the management of First Surat Group, as well as top management of MTN Nigeria at the presidential villa in Abuja, charged MTN Nigeria to facilitate and spearhead digital mobile money and digital education.

VP Shettima noted that the Tinubu administration is willing to partner with various stakeholders in the quest to help boost the nation’s productivity base and generate rapid employment. 

Commending the professionalism and devotion of Surat Group, which runs Nizamiye hospital, Nizamiye Foundation, as well as its educational institutions, VP Shettima noted that by extension, the Group, with its 2,500 staff, caters for over 100,000 extended families and dependents. 

He stated: “Agriculture remains key to the Nigerian economy. You may wish to consider divesting from the health and education sectors where you have distinguished yourself and delve into agric business where we have huge investment potential.

“I assure you that my principal is creating the right environment for businesses to thrive. Property rights will be enforced and no one will be deprived of their rights. We need foreign direct investment right now more than ever before. Reach out to us and we will support you to succeed,” the VP promised. 

For MTN Nigeria, the Vice President assured the telecoms giant of Federal Government’s commitment to removing all obstacles militating against businesses.

VP Shettima said gone are the days of double taxation and unnecessary bottlenecks, adding that President Tinubu’s policy on the ease of doing business would be carried to the later. 

Promising that Nigeria’s economy would pick up massively in less than 15 months, he charged the telecommunication giant to consider fastracking digital mobile money, as well as digital education in Nigeria. 

“I have never seen anyone committed to revamping Nigeria’s economy like President Tinubu. Yes, we may be facing challenges but believe me, in no distant time the country will be better off for it”, the VP promised. 

Earlier, Chairman of First Surat Group, Dr Ali Maina, thanked the Vice President, just as he said aside from the company’s vast interest and strategic partnerships, its corporate social responsibility has seen it investing millions of naira on the lives and welfare of Nigerians. 

On his part, Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Ernest Ndukwe, and Chief Executive Officer, Karl Olutokun Toriola, said the telecoms firm remains committed to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

They promised that in no distant time, MTN Nigeria will birth the much needed 5D network in Nigeria.

Stanley Nkwocha

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications

(Office of the Vice President)

26th September, 2023

Shared Prosperity for Ekiti Kete: Reflecting on the National Youth Festival in Asaba, Delta State.

Shared Prosperity for Ekiti Kete: Reflecting on the National Youth Festival in Asaba, Delta State.

Achieving growth and progress as a State or people demands hard work, consistency, and the ability to face criticism head-on. To ascend to greater heights, we must first be acutely aware of our vision, our collective objectives, the current state of affairs, and, most importantly, our own identity.

Ekiti Kete is a State known for its remarkable character traits – embodying the spirit of Omoluabi, possessing knowledge, and relentlessly striving for success without compromising our values. Yet, recent events at the National Youth Festival in Asaba, Delta State, have cast a shadow on our reputation. The comments and perceptions of the people  have left us disheartened.

The government's support and sponsorship of Ekiti participants in the festival were commendable. However,  the General Manager of the sports council has been recalled, with the event which has led to negative stereotypes being associated with our State. This unfortunate turn of events is not new to Ekiti, as we have faced criticism in the past for our choices and perceived limitations.

Amid these challenges, there is a glimmer of hope. Our young representatives in various sports have shone brightly on the national stage, participating in almost 35 sports alongside over 4,500 athletes from across the nation. Their outstanding performances not only reflect positively on Ekiti but also emphasize the untapped potential within our State.

As we grapple with being labeled and our state's reputation questioned, we must remember the vision of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, which emphasizes shared prosperity for all. In the words of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, "Great achievements take time; there is no overnight success." We, as a state, must become intentional ambassadors of Ekiti, taking pride in ourselves and upholding the values of Omoluabi. Governor Oyebanji cannot singlehandedly shape our future; we must actively participate in this endeavour.

Chief Awolowo's words remind us of the importance of respecting others' viewpoints and cooperating for the greater good. By continually striving for excellence in our respective fields, we can contribute to Ekiti's greatness.

Let us stand together to continually restore Ekiti's reputation and embrace the spirit of shared prosperity. God bless Ekiti State as we work towards a brighter future with honour, pride, and commitment to our values.

Adaraniwon Oluwatosin

SA New Media to Governor Biodun Oyebanji

Ekiti Assembly Commences Investigation on Shabby Outfits of State Athletes at the Ongoing Sports Festival.

Ekiti Assembly Commences Investigation on Shabby Outfits of State Athletes at the Ongoing Sports Festival.

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has commenced thorough investigation into the shabby outfits worn by Ekiti State athletes at the ongoing youth sports festival in Asaba. 

The sitting of the House Committee on Youth and Sport, headed by Hon. Idowu Odebunmi, was held on Tuesday 26th September, 2023 at the Assembly Parliamentary Room, and had in attendance the General Manager, Ekiti Sport Council, Mr. Kunle Adeyemi, and the representatives of the state Accountant General.

The investigation was initiated to ensure accountability, transparency and adherence to standards in representing Ekiti State. 

The General Manager, after answering questions put to him by the members of the Committee, 

apologized for the embarrassment caused to the state at the opening ceremony of the Sport Festival in Asaba and appealed that the Council would continue to do its best to move sports forward in Ekiti. 

The Sport Council boss appreciated the government of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for the support the council is receiving from the government all the time; he stated that the money required for the Sport Festival was promptly approved by the Governor and the payment was made by the Accountant General less than 24hrs after submitting the approval.

The Committee Chairman, Hon. Odebunmi while speaking on behalf of other members, expressed the House dissatisfaction with the negligence of the sports council officials resulting in the misrepresentation of the state.

Hon. Odebunmi stated that the investigation would continue till a satisfactory conclusion is made and asked the General Manager to come back with all the senior officials of the Sport Council when they are back from the Sport Festival.

The Chairman stated that the report of the Committee would be submitted to the House after the conclusion of its investigation for further legislative action.

Ekiti Assembly Passed Supplementary Budget.

Ekiti Assembly Passed Supplementary Budget.

....continues with accounts of stewardship of councils.

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has passed into law the State 2023  Supplementary Appropriation Bill of over N134 billion, made up of N96 billion for recurrent expenditure and N38 billion for capital expenditure.

The Chairman, House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Teju Okuyiga (Gbonyin/Aiyekire), at the plenary sitting of Tuesday 26th September, 2023, read the report of the Committee. The said Committee Report was thoroughly considered at the Committee of Supply after which the Speaker called on the Clerk of the House to do the Third Reading of the Bill.

After the Clerk performed the Third Reading, the Speaker announced that the Bill has now become Law. 

Following the motion moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Tolu Ige (Ekiti Southwest II), the Council and Local Council Development Areas Chairpersons and relevant officials were admitted into the hallowed Chamber to present the Accounts of Stewardship of their Councils and LCDAs

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, after thorough consideration of the Accounts of Stewardship presented by the Chairpersons of Ijero Local Goverment, Ifeloju LCDA, Ido/Osi Local Government and Ikere West LCDA by the House, advised the Councils and LCDAs Chairpersons to always utilize the fund allocated to them for the benefits of their people and in line with the vision of the state government to improve the standard of living of Ekiti people.

The Speaker stated further that the exercise was not for witch hunting, therefore the House would not be blackmailed into abandoning its legislative duties based on unfounded opinions of the people. 

The Speaker also read a correspondence from the Office of the Governor seeking for the concurrence of the House to appoint members of some statutory commissions, namely;

1. Local Government Service Commission

2. House of Assembly Service Commission 

3. Audit Service Commission 

The Speaker thereafter called on the nominees to submit thirty (30) copies of their curriculum vitae to the Clerk of the House on or before Friday 29th September, 2023 in preparation for their screening by the House. The House adjourned to Thursday 28th September, 2023