Ajoni LCDA Chairman, Prince Ogungbemi, Receives Multiple Awards Of Recognition.

Ajoni LCDA Chairman,  Prince Ogungbemi, Receives Multiple Awards Of Recognition.

The Holy Book says a man shall reap the fruits of his labour. The Yoruba people also believed so fanatically that the good deeds of a man will always follow him, even to his grave. But in most cases, when these good deeds are recognized, it encourages for more good deeds.

An ardent follower of Ekiti politics will recognise that  there has been an array of awards presentation to the Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, in recognition of his good deeds in delivering the dividends of democracy to his constituents. 

First in the catalogue of these awards, is the *Sport Eminent Personality Award* by the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State, an umbrella body of EKTV and FM 91.5, given to the Chairman in recognition of his giant strides in the promotion of sport development in Ekiti State. 

Through Ogungbemi's unwavering commitment and leadership, Prince Michael Ogungbemi has successfully implemented programmes and policies that have enhanced sports participation at the local level. Most outstanding was his _Ayo Olopon_ competition, Chairman's Cup competition and Ajoni kiddies football competition. All these are clear testaments to his avowed love for sports.

His relentless efforts in fostering community youth's participation and inclusion in governance through sports have significantly impacted the lives of individuals, inspiring them to pursue athletic endeavours and embrace a healthy lifestyle. These according to the BSES qualified the Chairman for the meritorious Award of Excellence and the award plaque was presented by a member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. (Comrade) Idowu Odebunmi, the Chairman House Committee on Sport.

In the same vein, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ekiti State Information Chapel and NewsHere&there news magazine, also honoured the Chairman with an Award of Excellence as the Most Outstanding Council Chairman of the year 2023 and Award of Excellence as the Best Performing Local Council Chairman of the year 2023 respectively. 

The council Chairman's remarkable achievements and significant contributions to his community have been acknowledged by journalists through these prestigious awards. This much-deserved recognition is a testament to the Chairman's tireless efforts and dedication to improving the welfare of the community he serves.

The awards recognized the Chairman's giant strides which highlights his exceptional progress and groundbreaking initiatives. These advancements spanned a wide range of areas, such as infrastructure development, social welfare programs, economic growth, environmental sustainability and every other significant endeavors that have positively impacted the community.

The journalists' acknowledgment of the council Chairman's achievements emphasizes the Chairman's ability to effectively implement and execute transformative projects, resulting in tangible improvements for the constituents. The Chairman's visionary leadership, innovative thinking, and strong commitment to public service have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in attaining this recognition.

These awards not only shed light on the Chairman's individual accomplishments but also highlights the collective efforts of his team, who have diligently worked alongside him to turn his vision into reality. His ability to motivate and inspire others while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment within the council has been instrumental to achieving such remarkable progress.

Furthermore, the awards serve as an encouragement to the council Chairman to continue his exceptional work and act as a catalyst for even greater positive change within the community. 

The NUJ Award plaque was handed over to the Chairman by the NUJ Ekiti State Information Chapel Chairman, Mr. Kayode Babatuyi and news here and there magazine award plaque was handed over by the DG, Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs. Mary Osho Omotosho.

In his response to these numerous awards, the multiple award winning Chairman said these recognitions will no doubt help to raise his profile and encourage him to pursue further innovative strategies to address the evolving needs and aspirations of Ajoni people.

He said the award will serve as a motivation to continue his remarkable work and commitment to serving the people and leading with distinction. He dedicated the awards to His Excellency, the Governor of the State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji who has provided every wherewithal and the enabling environment for the local council to thrive by his constant release of funds meant for the development of the grassroots.

Hon. Idowu Odebunmi Clinches BSES Legislator of the Year Award, Promises Continued Initiatives for Ekiti Youth.

Hon. Idowu Odebunmi Clinches BSES Legislator of the Year Award, Promises Continued Initiatives for Ekiti Youth.                                         By: Comr Olamide Akinwumi J. 

L- Hon Idowu Odebunmi, with BSES Staff during the award presentation.

Hon. Comrade Idowu Odebunmi ID-ALUTA, the Chairman of the House Committee on Youth and Sports Development, Innovation, Science, and Digital Economy, has been honored with the esteemed LEGISLATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD by the Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES).

The award ceremony, held on Thursday, December 14, 2023, served as a testament to Hon. Odebunmi's outstanding contributions to legislative excellence. In his response to this recognition, he expressed gratitude, stating, "To me, the Award is a challenge for me to do more," showcasing his dedication to advancing his ongoing initiatives.

Among the noteworthy projects on the horizon, Hon. Comrade Idowu Odebunmi Id-Aluta unveiled his commitment to proposing a motion for the compulsory implementation of INTER-HOUSE SPORTS in all schools across Ekiti State. Emphasizing the significance of this initiative in talent discovery among pupils and students interested in sports, he also highlighted his active involvement in drafting the EKITI YOUTH INVESTMENT FUND BILL, signaling a holistic approach to youth development and empowerment.

In his expressions of gratitude, Hon. Odebunmi commended the leadership of BSES, extending special thanks to the General Manager and the entire team for the distinguished honor. He concluded with a humble prayer, "May Almighty God help me."

Moreover, Hon. Comrade Idowu Odebunmi Id-Aluta assured the people of Ekiti State of his unwavering commitment to continue initiating bills aimed at uplifting Ekiti youths and students. His promise reflects a dedication to sustainable initiatives that will contribute significantly to the growth and development of the youth in the region.

The award not only acknowledges Hon. Comrade Idowu Odebunmi Id-Aluta's current accomplishments but paves the way for his ongoing commitment to serving the people of Ekiti State through impactful legislative actions.

Ikere Robbery: Ekiti Assembly Seeks Urgent And Thorough Investigation.

Ikere Robbery: Ekiti Assembly Seeks Urgent And Thorough Investigation.

.....Directs its Security and Special Duties Committee to follow up with security agencies to ensure perpetrators are brought to book.

Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye

Following the tragic bank robbery that took place in Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State, the Ekiti State House of Assembly has urged the state's security agencies, particularly the Nigeria Police, to promptly initiate a comprehensive investigation into the incident in order to apprehend the perpetrators.

Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye, the Speaker of the Assembly, strongly condemned the robbery, which resulted in the reported deaths of approximately three individuals and injuries to several others. He has directed the Assembly's Committee on Security and Special Duties to thoroughly probe the incident and provide a report to the House. Aribasoye expressed his condolences to the people of Ikere and the families of the victims affected by the loss of lives and property caused by the robbery. He also emphasized the Assembly's commitment to collaborating with other stakeholders to ensure the safety of Ikere and other communities in Ekiti State.

The robbery, carried out by a group of heavily armed assailants who reportedly attacked two commercial banks in Ikere Ekiti, involved the use of a convoy of vehicles and motorcycles. The attackers fatally wounded security personnel on duty before proceeding to target the banks, resulting in numerous injuries among customers and bank staff.

According to a statement released by Hon. Babatunde Oke, the Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, and representative of Ikere Constituency 1, the Ekiti State House of Assembly has expressed deep concern over the ease with which the security system of the Ikere community was overwhelmed during the recent deadly bank robbery, resulting in tragic loss of lives. The House views this situation as a matter of serious concern.

In the same statement, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, the Speaker of the Assembly, assured the people of Ekiti that the House is actively working with security agencies to apprehend and bring the criminals responsible for the robbery to justice. Aribasoye also urged the peace-loving people of Ikere to remain calm and lend their support to efforts aimed at preventing similar incidents from occurring in Ekiti State.

The Ekiti State House of Assembly remains resolute in its pursuit of justice and the establishment of safety and security within Ikere and throughout Ekiti State.

Kaduna bombing: NGF demands probe, group warns troublemakers.

Kaduna bombing: NGF demands probe, group warns troublemakers.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq

The Nigeria Governors Forum has called for thorough investigations into the accidental drone attacks at Tudun Biri, Igabi Local Government, Kaduna State, which killed over 100 persons.

The Chairman of the NGF and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazak, made the call during a condolence visit to Kaduna on Thursday.

AbdulRazak said he visited on behalf of the 36 governors of the federation, adding that the incident must be probed and anyone culpable brought to book.

The Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, thanked the NGF Chairman for the show of support and solidarity in the state’s moment of grief.

He also expressed appreciation to his colleague for visiting Kaduna to condole with the government and people.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the December 3 accidental air strikes killed over 100 and left many others injured.

Meanwhile, a group, Kaduna State Patriot and Good Governance Forum, has warned against the exploitation of the Kaduna tragedy for parochial gains.

The President of the group, Awwal Aliyu, spoke at a press conference in Kaduna on Thursday against the backdrop of a N33bn lawsuit said to have been instituted by one Dalhatu Salihu against the Federal Government over the incident.

Aliyu urged the Tudun Biri community to be wary of those he described as “conflict entrepreneurs” cashing in on the incident for the sake of benefiting from it.

He said, “We are aware of a lawsuit filed by one Mukhtar Usman Esq, counsel for one Alhaji Dalhatu Salihu, who is claiming to have done so on behalf of the villagers. They are demanding an apology in three national dailies and N33bn compensation.

“While it is the villagers’ right to seek legal redress, we wish to caution them to be wary so as not to fall into the trap of idle lawyers who don’t genuinely care about their predicament but rather are more concerned about dispossessing them of the little assistance they have got from good-spirited individuals.

“While acknowledging the strides made in addressing this unfortunate incident by different groups and stakeholders, we want to urge lawyers and politicians to refrain from politicising the situation.

“It is crucial that we maintain a united front and work towards resolving these challenges collectively, rather than exploiting them for personal or political gain. They should also be wary of taking briefs from urban jobbers who don’t have a direct connection with the victims they claim to be fighting for.”

Niger gets $25,000 S’Korea grants for water projects.

Niger gets $25,000 S’Korea grants for water projects.

The Niger State Government says it has received $25,000 in support from South Korea to rehabilitate three bi-water schemes and installation of solar-powered boreholes in the state.

The Secretary to the Niger State Government, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, disclosed this during the launching of the second phase of the state urban policy in Minna.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the financial support was through the UN-Habitat to implement the state urban policy.

Usman said the fund was to rehabilitate three bi-water schemes at Beji, Tungan Mallam and Kataergi towns and installation of solar-powered borehole, a 7.5KVA solar inverter and at Kuta General Hospital.

“UN-Habitat in 2022 provided financial support of $50,000 to the state to implement two demonstration projects in different parts of the state. It has provided $25,000 to implement another two demonstration projects.

“The second phase is designed to improve water supply and encourage hygiene practices in towns,” the SSG said.

He urged beneficiary communities to work together with the implementing agencies to ensure smooth implementation and sustainability of the projects.

The Chief of Policy Legislation and Governance Section of UN-Habitat, Remy Sietchiping, said the organisation was committed to supporting Niger’s drive to build resilient smart cities with adequate water supply for the growing population

Edo Rep pays 10,000 indigent students WASSCE fees.

Edo Rep pays 10,000 indigent students WASSCE fees.

Anamero Dekeri

Succour came the way of 10,000 indigent students in Edo State, as the member representing Etsako federal constituency of the state in the House of Representatives, Anamero Dekeri, announced free registration for next year’s Senior Secondary Certificate Examinations.

The House of Representatives’ member said the beneficiaries of the gesture cut across the three senatorial districts of the state, on equal basis, adding that the gesture was aimed at removing the financial constraints which previously hindered and cut short the dreams of many deserving students from pursuing and getting quality education to an acceptable level.

Dekeri said, “It is imperative to bring to your notice the final modalities that have been put in place for the equitable distribution of the 10,000 WAEC forms that I have earlier proposed to pay for indigent students in Edo State, who are billed to sit for the examinations next year.

“This initiative is aimed at ensuring equitable access to education for Edo State children. This is to reiterate my commitment to providing opportunities for every child to thrive and actualise his/her individual careers, as education remains the pivot for the development and prosperity of any society and nation.”

Dekeri, who is also an aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress for next year’s governorship election, noted that the gesture was devised to bridge the gap between the poor and the rich and alleviate the burden placed on economically disadvantaged families.

He added, “Education should be a fundamental right, accessible to every child, regardless of socio-economic background. Therefore, it is my firm belief that the initiative will empower the indigent students of the state, enable them to compete on a level playing field and unlock their full potentials.”

He called on stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, civil society organisations, and philanthropic individuals to join hands with him to make this vision a reality, by pulling resources together to leverage on “our collective strengths to make a lasting impact, breaking shackles of poverty and transforming lives through education.”

He said, “This distribution of free enrollment initiative for SSCE students in public schools will not only alleviate the financial burden facing families, but will also foster a strong and educated workforce, drive economic growth and ensure brighter future for people of the state.”

CBN directs banks to raise financial products quality.

CBN directs banks to raise financial products quality.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed banks to raise the quality of their products and services to attract more people into the financial system.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, disclosed this at the release of the 2023 EFInA Access to Finance (A2F) Survey results in Lagos.

He said: “As an ecosystem, we must redouble our efforts to develop innovative solutions to enable inclusion and be intentional about how we do it.

For instance, the access points effective for included populations might not be suitable for those currently excluded. The products and services that we have developed to get us this far will need refinement to ensure that they are fit for purpose for the next phase of this journey.”

According to him, the Nigerian financial system has evolved with significant improvements in size and depth, especially in the areas of market development, products, instruments, and payment infrastructure, among other things, thus, reinforcing the need for us as regulators and stakeholders to constantly keep pace with these emerging developments in a sustainable manner.

Cardoso, who was represented by, CBN Director, Other Financial Institutions Supervision Department, Chibuike Nwagerue, lauded all financial inclusion stakeholders for the efforts made and the progress achieved.

“However, to achieve the target of 95 percent financial inclusion, we must all move from collaboration to concrete commitment. To that effect, I call on all Financial Inclusion implementation agencies to set up specific functions or units dedicated to financial inclusion in their various organizations. This we believe, will provide the necessary ownership and commitment required to achieve our collective goal,” he said.

Cardoso, who spoke on the theme: Building a More Inclusive and Sustainable Economy: The Role of Financial Inclusion” said financial inclusion is a key developmental objective and a global initiative recognized by several countries worldwide.

“To buttress the importance of Financial Inclusion to National development, over 68 countries have developed and are currently implementing a National Financial Inclusion Strategy. At its core, financial inclusion provides the opportunity for equitable distribution of financial resources to support economic growth. It also contributes to the attainment of the Central Bank’s goals of monetary policy and price stability. An inclusive financial system that allows broad access to a wide range of formal financial services is essential for better transmission of monetary policy and in the attainment of its objectives,” he said. The report, which shows the Northern Nigeria has the least access to financial services.

The report disclosed that exclusion from financial services continues to be most severe in Northern Nigeria, at 38 per cent in the North East and 47 per cent in the North West compared to only five per cent in the South West and 10 per cent in the South South.

The A2F survey is Nigeria’s primary source of financial inclusion data and is designed to assess access to and use of financial services for the adult (18+) Nigerian population. The methodology for the 2023 survey has been updated to reflect changing population dynamics, and 2018 and 2020 data also updated using the same methodology to enable comparison.

The 2023 results show that 26 per cent of Nigerians are financially excluded, down from 32 per cent in 2020, demonstrating clear progress towards the Nigeria Financial Inclusion Strategy (NFIS 3.0) recommended target to reduce levels of financial exclusion in Nigeria to 25 per cent by 2024.

The report said usage of broader financial services remains limited demonstrating the urgent need to focus on the quality and impact of inclusion. While credit use doubled to is six per cent, pension and insurance use remained at eight per cent and three per cent respectively, well below 2024 target levels.

Commenting on the results of the Survey, EFiNA Chair Dr Agnes Martins said: “We are seeing encouraging progress towards the NFIS 3.0 recommended goal to reduce exclusion to 25 per cent by 2024, and we must acknowledge all the good work that has gone into making this happen. However, we also have to be clear that 26 per cent exclusion means that 28.8 million adult Nigerians continue to be completely excluded from the financial system.