Be Focused To Be Great In Life, Oyebanji's Wife Urges Schoolgirls.

Be Focused To Be Great In Life, Oyebanji's Wife Urges Schoolgirls.

...Celebrates International Day of the Girl Child With Students.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has counseled schoolgirls to be focused on their studies and pursue their dreams with determination for them to achieve greatness in life.

Dr. Oyebanji gave the advice on Wednesday when she marked this year’s International Day of the Girl Child with the students of Mary Immaculate Grammar School, Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

The First Lady urged the girls not to distract themselves with issues like having boyfriends which she identified as a factor that has negative effects on their academic performance and capable of entangling them with unwanted pregnancy.

The Governor’s wife urged the students to learn from her experience as a schoolgirl at Baptist Comprehensive High School, Ado Ekiti where she was serious with her studies and never distracted herself with premature relationship with any boyfriend.

This, she said, laid the foundation for her success in secondary and tertiary education culminating in studying up to PhD level and rising to the position of a senior academic who is now producing PhD holders.

Giving a charge to the students before reading her prepared speech, Dr. Oyebanji also admonished the girls not to be afraid of speaking up anytime they are going through harassment, intimidation, gender-based violence and inappropriate sexual behaviour from anybody towards them.

Dr. Oyebanji said: “Don’t distract yourselves with the issue of boyfriend. Face your studies very well and in your relationship with people, especially the opposite sex, there is need for you to set boundaries. You must also speak up against intimidation, harassment and gender-based violence.

“In schools, including girls schools, there are issues of lesbianism in hostels. If fellow girls are touching your bodies in inappropriate manner, speak out so that you can be helped and don’t suffer in silence.

“You must set boundaries against things can destroy your future. If I am doing this boyfriend-girlfriend thing, BAO (Governor Biodun Oyebanji) will not marry me. I grew up on the streets of Ado Ekiti here, I schooled here, I hawked here but I was focused on my education which has helped me to become what I am today.”

Reading from her speech, she said: “Girls all over the world have the power to change the course of history, break barriers, and inspire change. Their smiles are not only a testament to their innocence but also to their strength and determination! Girls ! You are the architects of change, your dreams and your actions can shape a better world for all.

“As we commemorate this day, let us commit ourselves to ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to smile, dream, and thrive. Let us empower them with education, protect their rights, and create a world where their smiles shine even brighter.”

Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, hailed the First Lady for always championing the cause of the girl child urging the students not to allow any vice and anybody to abort their dreams.

A lawyer, Mrs. Shirley Atane, identified poverty, rape and teenage pregnancy as enemies of progress for schoolgirls which can block their opportunities and hinder them from attaining greatness.

She added that the future of the girls must be adequately looked after and invested in identifying education and relevant legal frameworks as parts of measures being taken by the Ekiti State government to secure their future.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Adebimpe Aderiye, said this year’s theme was apt and speaks to the essence of protection of the rights of the girl child and preparing the girls for leadership roles in the future.

The 2023 International Day of the Girl Child had as its theme: Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being.” It was well attended by students, teachers and other stakeholders in the education sector.

Comr. Olubodun Abiodun Johnson, 'Harry,' Prepares for Leadership at NANS Level.

Comr. Olubodun Abiodun Johnson, 'Harry,' Prepares for Leadership at NANS Level.

Comrade Olubodun Abiodun Johnson, fondly known as Harry, has made an indelible mark in the realm of academic leadership. From his tenure as the former Fessu FPA President to his current role as the outgoing SUG President of Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, Harry's journey has been marked by exceptional leadership.

As the former Fessu FPA President, Harry demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of students, elevating academic standards and tirelessly working to better the student community. His leadership skills were evident as he steered the Federation of Ekiti State Students Union with finesse.

Currently serving as the incumbent Fessu National House of Senate Chief Whip, Harry has continued to excel in navigating the complexities of student politics at the national level. His role as Chief Whip signifies the trust and influence he holds among his fellow student leaders, ensuring discipline and addressing student concerns.

In Pic: Comrade Olubodun Abiodun Johnson 'Harry'.

In his capacity as the outgoing SUG President of Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti, Harry's tenure has been marked by initiatives that have enhanced the student experience, promoted inclusivity, and brought about positive changes within the institution.

Now, Harry is gearing up for a new challenge, setting his sights on a leadership role at the National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) level. With his proven track record, dedication to student welfare, and passion for making a difference, Harry stands as a compelling candidate for this new endeavor.

In Pic: Comrade Olubodun Abiodun Johnson 'Harry'.

It is essential for all stakeholders in the student community to watch Harry's journey closely and extend their support as he aspires to make an impact at the NANS level. With his experience, enthusiasm, and vision for the betterment of Nigerian students, he is a leader to watch.

In a time when visionary and capable leaders are needed more than ever, Comr. Olubodun Abiodun Johnson, 'Harry,' shines as a beacon of hope and progress. As he embarks on this new chapter, we eagerly anticipate the positive transformations he is bound to bring to the realm of student leadership at the national level.

RBC:

HARRY MEDIA TEAM

HARRY AT NANS EKITI,

HARRY IS COMING,

STAND WITH VISIONARY LEADER; STAND WITH HARRY.

South East Remains Pivotal To Nigeria's Growth - President Tinubu.

South East Remains Pivotal To Nigeria's Growth - President Tinubu.

.....Says Governor Uzodimma deserves 2nd term.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday observed that the South East geopolitical zone remains crucial to the growth and development of Nigeria.

According to him, all hands must, therefore, be on deck for the development of the country.

The President, who stated this in Owerri during the flag-off of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship campaign in Imo State, hailed the infrastructural developments embarked upon by the state governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma.

The governorship poll in Imo State is billed to hold on November 11, 2023, alongside other off-season polls in Bayelsa and Kogi States.

President Tinubu who was represented at the event by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, called on the people of Imo State to rally round Governor Uzodimma's second term bid, saying his continuity in office was the best option for the people of the state.

Speaking on behalf of the President, VP Shettima said, "Governor Hope Uzodimma has done exceedingly well in terms of infrastructural developments and in terms of value addition to the State of Imo.  From the past three to sixteen billion, he increased the IGR to over N30 billion per annum. He has built some state-of-the-art roads here in Imo State as well as several developmental strides.

"The good people of Imo, I have seen your faces. I have seen the faces of hope, I have seen the faces of resilience and determination. We cannot afford to be complacent on the 11th of next month. 

"You should all go out and re-elect our Governor for another term of four years for him to complete his noble objectives for the people of Imo State. I want to assure you that the President is solidly, 1,000  percent, behind Governor Hope Uzodimma.  He holds him in the highest esteem.

The Vice President further explained that for the purpose of consolidation and continuity, it was important for the people of Imo to rally around Governor Uzodimma and get him re-elected for a second term.

Earlier on arrival, Vice President Shettima was received by the Imo State Governor, and was hosted to a reception by the state traditional rulers led by HRM Eze (Dr) E. C. OKeke.

The royal fathers pledged support for the governor and the Tinubu administration.

Speaking at the rally, Governor Uzodimma said the APC remained the party to beat, adding that he has surpassed the people's expectations of him.

He promised to do more than he has done in his first term in office, stressing that transparency, equity and fairness will be utmost in his administration.

Also, the National Chairman of the party, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, called on the people of the state to remain with the party at the centre as the pedigree of the Imo Governor has continued to be distinct.

Other dignitaries who graced the event included the Governors of Kwara, Benue, Ogun, Yobe, Cross River, Jigawa, Ebonyi, Sokoto and Ekiti States, among others.

Also in attendance were APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Alh. Ali Bukar Dalori; Deputy National Chairman (South), Chief Emma Eneukwu; Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Osita Izunazo and Owelle Rochas Okorocha.

Others are Chief Ikedi Ohakim, Prof. Placid Njoku, federal and state legislators as well as some other party stakeholders.

FG to employ youth as firefighters to curb unemployment, says Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

FG to employ youth as firefighters to curb unemployment, says Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Federal government has said that it will employ more Nigerian youth as firefighters to reduce unemployment and boost the sector.

Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known during the launching of new fire fighting equipment which include 16 trucks and six vehicles at the Headquarters of the Federal Fire Service in Abuja, yesterday.

He explained that what has so far been delaying the employment is the enactment of new laws to modernize firefighting in Nigeria.

“Your strength lies in the decline of fire outbreaks and not the number of fires you fought within a period.

“Extinguishing fires, saving lives and property, rescuing people during accidents and protecting people on the event of other emergencies remained part of your responsibilities.

“Federal Fire and Rescue Service will be expected to collect information across Nigeria and also take care of the health and safety of your personnel.

“I need to have the full range of foreseeable fires, the areas and what we have to combat them. It is very important that this becomes your next line of action. As government agencies, we put in more efforts in solving problems rather than planning to prevent them.

He noted that when the laws are ready, the number of firefighters needed would be alighted and the need for fire fighters in every public infrastructure in the country would be stipulated, and subsequently allow for more hands to be employed.

Tunji-Ojo said the number of firefighters in a country shows the level of its development, hence Nigeria cannot be among the top economies of the world if it has a small population of firefighters.

There is a direct correlation between sophistication, industrialization and fire service because the more you grow as an economy, the more you need to expand the coast of your fire service. Fire service is directly related to development in any nation.

Nigeria with just over 6,000 federal firefighters is among the least number of employed firefighters in the world, he said .

Making comparison, Dr. Tunji-Ojo pointed that New York with 255 fire houses, Los Angeles with 160 fire stations give the picture of what fire fighter and rescue operation should be, noting that US has over a million fire fighters both employed and volunteers.

He said the bill before the National Assembly if assented would change the narratives of fire fighting in the country.

“FFS is a sleeping giant. Your response should not only be combating fire but even forecasting danger. You must be proactive,” he added that: “I don’t want your performance to be valued around the buildings or infrastructure you prevented from burning down, but rather preventive mechanism to rescue and prevent hazards.”

“For us as people, we cannot continue to pay lip service, non-challant attitude to the issue to fire. As an individual, I believe that the FFS should be the major employer of labour in Nigeria. All we need to do is put on our thinking caps. It is time for the FFS to rise up to her responsibility which is not just about combating fire.

“It has to do with forecasting dangers. We have to migrate from the era of corrective activities to the era of being proactive which will lead us to preventive measures that can save us millions of Naira.

“The FFS must work very closely with NSCDC for security cover. I understand the issues that our FFS men are attacked when they go out on their legitimate duties but with the NSCDC providing such cover, such attacks will be reduced,” he said.

Controller General, Federal Fire Service, Engineer Jaji Abdulganiyu said the fire statistics in the first and second quarter of 2023 was a testimony of a truly re- engineered Service, noting that records at the Data Repository Centre puts fire call for the period at 1,096, lives saved -111 successful rescues at 91 and total property saved at over N300

billion.

He assured that with the launching of state-of-the-art firefighting trucks and Ford Rapid Response Vehicles (RRV), incredible achievements are going to be made.

President Tinubu Announces New Leadership in Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Sectors.

President Tinubu Announces New Leadership in Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Sectors.

President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of new and returning Chief Executives to fresh terms in office across multiple agencies under the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy:

(1) EVC / CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) — Aminu Maida

(2) MD / CEO, Nigerian Communications Satellite Limited (NIGCOMSAT) — Nkechi Egerton-Idehen

(3) DG / CEO, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) — Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi

(4) National Commissioner / CEO, Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) — Dr. Vincent Olatunji

(5) Postmaster General / CEO, Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) — Tola Odeyemi

Furthermore, in line with President Bola Tinubu's determination to maximally leverage on Nigeria's proven technological and digital economic prowess to reposition the nation's economy toward greater financial inclusion, the President has approved the appointment of a new Special Adviser to the President.

Special Adviser to the President on Technology and Digital Economy — Idris Alubankudi

By this directive of the President, the above-mentioned appointments take immediate effect.

Oyebanji Names Oke-Olutola New Diretor General EKDIPA.

Oyebanji Names Oke-Olutola New Diretor General EKDIPA.

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the appointment of Mrs Lolade Oke-Olutola as the new Director-General of the State Development and Investment Promotion Agency (EKDIPA).

Oke-Olutola, whose appointment is with immediate effect, takes over from Mr Ayokunnumi Aribidara, who has being redeployed to the Governor’s Office as Special Advisor on Policy Coordination.

Oke-Olutola, an accomplished financial expert with over 15 years cognate experience spanning various sectors has extensive experience in market dynamics, statutory regulations and Public Private Partnership.

A product of University of Ilorin, Kwara State, and Metropolitan School of Business and Management, United Kingdom; she is also a Certified Treasury Manager from the New York Institute of Finance, New York, USA.

Until recently, Oke-Olutola served as the Director General, Oyo State Investment and Public Private Partnership Agency (OYSIPA), where she effectively managed the state’s portfolio and drove its PPP initiatives.

INEC registers 5.4 million for Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa governorship polls.

INEC registers 5.4 million for Kogi, Imo, Bayelsa governorship polls.

About 5,409,438 registered voters are expected to vote in the November 11   elections in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said yesterday.

The commission is however yet to release the number of permanent voters’ cards collected in the three states ahead of the elections.

The commission also announced that it will conduct a mock accreditation  in the three states on  October 14 to test run its facilities.

A statement  by the National Commissioner in Charge of Information and Voter Education, Sam Olumekun, also announced that it will present a register of voters to the political parties in the three states on  October 12 in line with the provisions of the law.

The statement reads: “The Commission held its regular meeting today, Tuesday 10th October 2023 and, among other issues, reviewed preparations for the off-cycle Governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States.

Presentation of Voters Register NGO to INEC, security agents: be neutral

“For the forthcoming elections, there are 1,056 862 registered voters in Bayelsa State; 2,419,922 in Imo State; and 1,932,654 in Kogi State, making a combined total of 5,409,438 registered voters for the three States.

“As provided in the timetable and schedule of activities, soft copies of the complete register of voters for each state will be presented to the political parties participating in the elections.

“For emphasis, 16 political parties are sponsoring candidates in Bayelsa State, 17 in Imo State and all the 18 parties in Kogi State.

“In furtherance of our commitment to deepen the deployment of technology for voter accreditation and result management, the Commission has finalised preparations for mock accreditation of voters in the three states to test-run the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and upload of polling units results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV).

Credit: The Nation Newspaper.