Oyebanji presents N500 million gratuity checks to 149 pensioners.

Oyebanji presents N500 million gratuity checks to 149 pensioners.                                                ...….restates commitment to clearing backlog of gratuity.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has assured pensioners in the state that his administration would not relent in the drive to clear the backlog of gratuities in order to guarantee their welfare at their old age.

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Thursday while presenting cheques worth 500 million Naira to about 140 benefiting retired state pensioners at a brief event at Jibowu Hall, Ado- Ekiti. 

He said government was not unaware of the hardship caused by the subsidy removal on the senior citizens who had served the state meritoriously for the better part of their lives, assuring that government would always look for avenues to cushion the effect of the economic situation. 

While disclosing that efforts were in top gear to work our modalities on how to clear the backlog of all gratuity arrears, Governor Oyebanji said his administration would also consider the demand for monthly payment of gratuity to Pensioners.

As regards wage award for workers, Governor Oyebanji said his government was already working out a scenario where workers would be taking care of to cushion the effect of subsidy removal on them but would not rush to give a figure government would not be able to sustain.

He pleaded with the citizens of the state to be patient with his administration as government is also working out formalities that would take care of those in informal sector of the economy as he assured all of good policies, interventions and infrastructural development that would enable government perform its responsibility to all without prejudice. 

 “On all outstanding issues, we are working so hard to ensure that we crack those nuts, I’m aware of all the arrears of pensions and check-off dues and a lot of things that are still due to our people. Our intention is to come to a point where we reach appreciable number of the pensioners, and you know that a committee has been put in place and very soon discussion will be concluded on it. We are trying to get the best deal for our people. What will gladden my heart is to sit down and see that we are doing 20Billion Naira, and it feasible, it will get to a larger number.

“Also on what the labour leaders refer to as wage award, I will not rush and promise you something that I will start and I won’t be able to sustain. If I want applause, I can award too and when it is no longer sustainable, we start dragging it, that is not my style because I promised to deal with you in truth. So, we are looking at the numbers, they’re working out the scenarios, and whatever we promise we are going to do for you sure it is something that we can carry. I don’t want to do something I will stop mid-way.

The head of service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe commended the Governor in the drive to ensure careful implementation of his administration’s cardinal programmes and policies to impact positively on the lives of the people, saying the various disbursement he had done for pensioners in the state laid credence to his resolve to make life meaningful and worthwhile for the people.

Komolafe called on citizens of the state to continue to support the government with their prayers in order to achieve a better Ekiti where everyone will be comfortable in the shared prosperity agenda of the state.

Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Kolapo Olatunde, and his counterpart from the Trade Union Congress, Sola Adigun, opined that the narratives had changed concerning the issues of pension and gratuity payment in the state since the inception of the present administration.

In his remarks, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Pensioners expressed appreciation to the Governor for his care and magnanimity to Pensioners in the state adding that his prompt payment of pension and release of gratuity has helped to enliven the heart of pensioners and prayed that God would continue to fortify him to do more exploits in the state.

He lauded the Governor for appointing one of them as Special Adviser on Pension matters saying pensioners never had it so good in the state.

Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs. Christiana Ademulegun, Mr. Joseph Abiola, and Mrs. Janet Ogunlade, thanked the Governor for prioritizing issues concerning pensioners’ welfare.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode, members of state Executive Council and Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro.

Governor Oyebanji, Health Minister, Pate harp on shaping future of healthcare indices.

Governor Oyebanji, Health Minister, Pate harp on shaping future of healthcare indices.                 ..…As Governor declares open 64th National Council on Health.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mahammad Ali Pate have stressed the need to explore the theme and sub-theme of the 64th National Council on Health which is “Building Resilient and Inclusive Healthcare Systems for a Healthy Nigeria", in shaping the future of healthcare indices and outcomes in Nigeria.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 64th National Council on Health (NCH), meeting in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, the Governor and the Coordinating Minister on Health posited that government should henceforth treat health and well-being of the people as their fundamental human rights as a measure of government commitment to equity, justice, and the dignity of every individual. 

Declaring the meeting open in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said his administration would continue to collaborate on initiatives that leverage digital solutions for the improvement of the health sector by harnessing technology to enhance and reposition health information systems and streamline processes to achieve the desired results.

The Governor stressed that the sub-themes of Harnessing Evidence-based Research and Development for Better Health and Digital Transformation and Health Information Systems, were apt in the effort to underscore government’s collective commitment to delivering a healthcare system that is robust, resilient, and inclusive. He added that every Nigerian has the right to equitable access to quality healthcare without financial hardship. 

In Ekiti state, the Governor stated that his administration has demonstrated significant commitment to improving the health status of the populace through a holistic approach to health systems development with particular emphasis on strengthening primary health care system as a way of promoting universal health coverage. 

He added that his administration has invested considerably in the health sector including infrastructural upgrade, improved welfare package for health workers and a focus on the availability of good quality drugs. 

The Governor, while using the opportunity to express appreciation to the Coordinating Minister of Health and other participants for their immense contribution to the Council meeting, also stated that their collective efforts would lead to transformative outcomes for the health and well-being of Nigerians.

“Today, in Ekiti, everyone one can access a comprehensive package of primary care interventions such as Family Planning, Ante Natal Care, Delivery, Post Natal Care, Under 5 illnesses and malaria treatment for all. 

“In the health sector, under my leadership, we have demonstrated significant commitment to improving the health status of our populace through a holistic approach to health systems development with particular emphasis on strengthening of our primary health care system to promote a preventive approach to health and as the entry point to care as we strive to achieve universal health coverage. 

The Minister of health, Prof. Mohammad Pate, in his speech said National Council on Health has become a veritable platform over time where members and stakeholders meet and interact to consider, deliberate and chart ways forward on health issues of national importance.

The Minister noted that the theme, “Building a Resilient and Inclusive Healthcare System for a Healthy Nigeria,” along with the Sub-Themes were carefully chosen to realize the priorities of the sector; encourage stakeholders to take stock of the journey so far and ultimately achieve a system that ensures that everyone has access to needed health services including prevention, promotion, treatment and rehabilitation without being exposed to any form of financial hardship.

He highlighted three key areas of good governance; efficient, equitable and quality health systems and Unlocking Value Chains as imperatives to delivering on health care system that would yield effectiveness and efficiency of the sector. 

Prof. Pate tasked government on the need to be transparent, accountable, and responsive to the healthcare needs of its citizens by creating and enforcing policies that prioritize health and well-being of the people adding that government must also establish a regulatory framework that ensures the highest quality standards in healthcare and safeguards against corruption. 

According to the Minister, The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare remains at the forefront, making sure that as a nation, we continue to maintain stability in our health sector and meet the health needs of our growing population. This is a collective leadership effort and I ask us to continue to put our best foot forward to further change our narratives and foster the progress which we desire.

He used the opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of his ministry at ensuring it accelerates the needed progress towards universal health coverage as he implored governments at the states level to replicate all the good intention of the federal government to improve health status of their citizens.

The Minister thanked Governor Biodun Oyebanji and other stakeholders in the health sector whose efforts have contributed immensely to the success of this 64th edition of the annual NCH. 

“I also extend my gratitude to every member of the Council, development partners, donors, and all other stakeholders for making time to attend. I urge us all to keep the vision of ensuring and sustaining an improved healthcare system in our country. The Federal Ministry of Health pledges its unwavering effort to see that this is achieved and will continue to provide support to this course, as we all continue the long path towards the SDGs promise- a promise of a just, equitable and sustainable health system- our common heritage; a promise of peace and prosperity for a nation 

“where no one is left behind.” Nigeria’s time is now. He stated.

In his keynote address, World Bank Country Director, Chubam Chundri urged the Federal Government to make deliberate efforts to reflect key pillars of health systems including primary healthcare by improving on the resources allocated to the sector.

Chundri, who recommended an urgent shift towards promoting the health and well-being of Nigerians, lamented the country’s low investment in health which had turn the country to be the least funded health system in the world.

He stressed the need for the country to raise more revenue through increase in excise taxes in the drive to adequately fund the health sector to a more acceptable standard.

Earlier in his welcome speech, Ekiti State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani said the state was proud to showcase its efforts in the health sector and the tremendous progress it had made over the past few years which is rapidly challenging the landscape of the health sector including its drive towards developing the primary health care by building a network of functional and effective primary health care centres in each of the 177 wards of the state.

The Commissioner added that the State Insurance Agency was complementing the effort of government by rapidly expanding access to health insurance to the entire populace across the 16 local government areas through the ‘Ulerawa’ intervention with more than 95,000 beneficiaries in the last two months.

On workforce in the sector, Dr Filani disclosed that state government recently approved the payment of a new salary structure for health workers in the state to act as a morale booster to the workforce as well as attract and retain new health workers in the face of the global challenges of shortage in health workforce and high rate of migration from the sector.

The meeting had in attendance health workers, policy makers and stakeholders comprising Ministers of Health, Commissioners for Health and officials from the 36 states of the federation including Secretary of Health, Federal Capital territory as well as representatives of development agencies including UNICEF, WHO, USAID among others.

President Tinubu's Administration Marks International Students' Day with Unprecedented Commitment to Education.

President Tinubu's Administration Marks International Students' Day with Unprecedented Commitment to Education.

In commemoration of International Students' Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's unwavering dedication to education and youth development takes center stage. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Comr. Asefon Sunday Dayo, delivered a press statement today, expressing the administration's commitment to fostering a new era for Nigerian students.

President Tinubu, known for his passion for education, has spearheaded initiatives that redefine the landscape of student welfare and development. The Renewed Hope administration has enacted groundbreaking programs, including the Students Loans (Access to Higher Education) Act, 2023, and the approval of CNG Buses for Student Union Governments and National Students bodies.

A significant highlight of the administration's commitment is the Presidential Directive ensuring no increase in school fees by Federal Institutions. The appointment of an erudite scholar to oversee the education ministry within six months of the administration showcases a practical commitment to academic excellence.

Moreover, the administration has appointed young and qualified Nigerians as ministers, overseeing the Youth ministry, emphasizing the importance of youth development in the national agenda.

In his statement, Comr. Asefon Sunday Dayo announced an upcoming initiative, the Renewed Hope Academic Excellence Reward Scheme. This scheme, in collaboration with key stakeholders, aims to recognize and encourage the top graduating students annually from every tertiary institution in Nigeria.

Comr. Asefon urged Nigerian students to remain optimistic and dedicated to the Renewed Hope agenda, emphasizing the government's commitment to creating an optimal educational environment in the country. He called on student leaders and cadres to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration by maintaining peace and order on campuses.

As International Students' Day unfolds, this administration's actions symbolize a renewed sense of hope and a fresh beginning for Nigerian students, marking a pivotal step towards a prosperous future.

Energy Commission, UNEP Collaborate On Training Standard Regulators On New Air-Conditioning Standards.

Energy Commission, UNEP Collaborate On Training Standard Regulators On New Air-Conditioning Standards.

As part of its mandate of promoting sustainable energy development in the country, the Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) has held a one-day training workshop on Air Conditioners Monitoring, Verification and Enforcement (AC-MVE).

The training which was in collaboration with the UN Environment Programmme (UNEP) was designed to build the capacity of relevant government institutions to effectively enforce energy efficiency standards of air conditioning equipment in Nigeria.

Speaking at the occasion, the Director General of the Commission, Dr Mustapha Abdullahi described it as an integral part of a broader plan to speed up the transition to energy-efficient air conditioners. 

He said: "The purpose of the workshop is about scaling-up energy-efficient and climate friendly cooling in Nigeria with the overall objective of accelerating the transition to energy-efficient air-conditioners (ACs) with climate-friendly (low-GWP refrigerant) in residential, commercial and public buildings.

"This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s climate targets in the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and aims to do so in a cost-effective and sustainable manner." 

Abdullahi also provided more insight into the objectives of the training workshop.

 "To build the capacity of relevant government institutions to effectively enforce energy performance standards of air conditioning equipment; to enhance their ability to carry out surveillance activities in the air conditioner sector to monitor compliance with these standards; to harness feedback from stakeholders and solicit their buy-in regarding the new energy performance standards proposed for air conditioner standards," he said.

The ECN DG added that the outcome of the training workshop would complement ongoing efforts at strengthening the capacity of government agencies concerned with market surveillance and the enforcement of Minimum Energy Performance standards (MEPS) for air-conditioners.

On his part, the Country National Coordinator of UNEP Mr. Etiosa Uyigue laid emphasis on the need for Nigeria to review its energy standard every 5 years.

Participants at the workshop include representatives of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Ministry of Environment, the National Environmental Standards and Regulatory Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) as well as civil society groups and Non-governmental organisations. 

Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi: A Visionary Leader and Philanthropist.

 Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi: A Visionary Leader and Philanthropist.

In the realm of leadership, Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi stands as a beacon, embodying the essence of true service and resilience. His profound belief that a leader is, above all, a servant to all, reflects a commitment to selfless dedication.

A native of Ise/Orun LGA in Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi is not merely a leader by title but a Christian, a devoted husband, and a father of two. Beyond his familial roles, he has carved a notable path as a business tycoon, serving as the CEO of ADE-BOM Global Resources NG and the visionary mind behind Vintage Royal Hotel, among other ventures.

A man of cheerful disposition and disciplined character, Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi is a lover of peace and an advocate for development. His unwavering commitment to fostering positive relationships between the youth and elders showcases a leadership style grounded in inclusivity and respect.

In the face of adversity, Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi remains steadfast. He champions the idea that true leadership is marked by the ability to withstand criticism and navigate the tumultuous waters of hate speech. This resilience, coupled with a remarkable power of forgiveness and forgetting, further cements his status as a leader with a heart for the people.

The essence of leadership, as defined by Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi, extends beyond personal recognition. He emphasizes that ceasing to do good due to a lack of acknowledgment is a telltale sign that one has not yet attained true leadership.

As a figurehead in his community and beyond, Otunba Adefemi Adeleke Adebomi's impact reverberates through his dedication to service, his ability to weather criticism, and his commitment to fostering unity among different generations. In every facet of his life, he exemplifies the qualities of a visionary leader and philanthropist, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to witness his leadership journey.

Ekiti State Government to Disburse Gratuity to Retired LG Workers and Teachers.

Ekiti State Government to Disburse Gratuity to Retired LG Workers and Teachers.

In a bid to honor its commitment to retired Local Government Workers and Primary School Teachers, the Ekiti State Government has announced the upcoming disbursement of gratuity payments. This event, marking the fourth batch for the year, is scheduled for Friday, November 17th, 2023.

The ceremony is set to unfold at Lady Jibowu's Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti, commencing at 12 noon. The distinguished Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, will preside over the occasion. The anticipation is palpable as this initiative underscores the government's dedication to the welfare of its retired workforce.

To ensure a seamless process, all expected beneficiaries, invited guests, dignitaries, and government officials are expected to be seated by 11 am. This meticulous planning reflects the government's commitment to efficiency in the distribution of gratuity payments.

The disbursement of cheques holds significant importance for the retired workers and teachers who have dedicated their years of service to the community. The government's gesture not only acknowledges their contributions but also serves as a testament to the state's dedication to the well-being of its retirees.

As the clock ticks down to the anticipated event, the atmosphere is charged with a sense of appreciation and gratitude towards the Ekiti State Government for prioritizing the financial well-being of its retired workforce. The occasion promises to be a dignified affair, honoring those who have played pivotal roles in the growth and development of the state's local governance and educational sectors.

Pastor Who Sold Heaven Visa for #310,000 Re-Arrested For Kidnapping.

Pastor Who Sold Heaven Visa for #310,000 Re-Arrested For Kidnapping.

The controversial founder of Christ High Commission Church, Araromi-Ugbesi in Omuo-Oke, Ekiti State, Noah Abraham, who was in the news last year for allegedly collecting three hundred and ten thousand Naira from church members as a ticket to heaven has been re-arrested for more grievous offences

This time around, the controversial Pastor was arrested by the Ekiti State Police Command in collaboration with the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, NAPTIP, for the alleged kidnapping of over nine persons including minors and impregnating the wife of his choir coordinator.

It was gathered that some of the hostages were children of his members whom he had hypnotized, brainwashed and set against their parents.

Narrating their ordeal, some of the parents of the children who were kept hostage, church members and even the legal wife of Pastor Abraham, who had staged a protest to the Ekiti State Police Command pleaded with the Government and appropriate authorities to assist them in getting their children, wife and relatives out of the captivity of the Pastor.

According to them, Pastor Abraham forced their children to withdraw from school while a 27-year-old man who was already working in an unnamed company where he was given an official vehicle was asked to resign and kept in the camp without a specific mission 

Speaking with Journalists, the choir coordinator of the church, Mr Dare Ikuenayo confirmed that the pastor snatched and impregnated the mother of his three children.

He said: “I joined the church in Kabba, Kogi State but one day, the pastor called me and notified me that my wife had a gift of prophesy that I should allow her to stay with him for a month and work for God which I oblige.

“But suddenly I noticed that my wife was not even willing to see or talk to me. While I was trying to raise eyebrows, the pastor announced in the church that he had taken my wife and no one could take her from him.

“I tried my best but all to no avail until he impregnated her and moved her into his house fully.”

In her testimony, the wife of the pastor, Mrs Mary Abraham said after they came together to Omuo-Ekiti for the aborted heavenly mission, her husband came in one night and asked her to move out because he wanted the wife of the choir coordinator to move in.

According to her, “He said the present work in his hand requires the woman to be with him and that was how he forced me out and denied me access to my three children.

“He withdrew all of my children from school, and made their lives miserable, I wept when I saw my son yesterday after the police brought him here. I am begging Nigerians to help me take my children from him.”

Similarly, one of the pastors working under Abraham, said his son, who was already working in a reputable institution was asked to resign and held hostage.

The Pastor said, “Even when I logged in complaint at the police station, I was offered access to two of my three children but on our way home he called them and asked them to run back which they did.

“He is always telling us that we have different curses and evil spirits working against us, he would ask us to sell our property and bring the money to him. I have invested almost 7 million in the church, I am left with nothing. Even my children don’t want to see me, I don’t know what he did to them.”

Another old woman who is the elder sister to Pastor Abraham alleged that he took almost a million naira from her on different occasions on the account that he wanted to cleanse her of evil spirits.

It was also gathered that there are many other complaints against Pastor Abraham with different stories too elaborate and sensitive for media publication.

Reacting, Pastor Abraham said the heaven ticket saga was his first assignment, saying he was done with what God had sent him to earth to do and he was ready to go back to his creator.

He said he was fulfilled because he had concluded his assignments as directed by God while declining to give any reason for his actions.

Meanwhile, the wife of the coordinator whom the founder impregnated is still at large.

In a chat with journalists, the spokesman for the Ekiti State Police Command, DSP, Sunday Abutu said the investigation is ongoing in collaboration with NAPTIP, saying the police would revert to the next line of action.

Recall that Pastor Abraham was arrested on the 27th of April, 2022 in Omuo-Ekiti after he converged over forty persons in a camp and collected the sum of three hundred and ten thousand Naira from each of them as a ticket fee to heaven but was granted bail at a Magistrate court.