Education tops as Taraba gov presents N311.3 billion 2024 budget.

Education tops as Taraba gov presents N311.3 billion 2024 budget.

Taraba state governor, Agbu Kefas, on Friday, December 15, presented N311,388,525,661.96 as the 2024 budget to the state House of Assembly. 

A breakdown of the appropriation bill, titled: “Budget of Moving Forward,” shows that N111,669,595,358.59 is for recurrent expenditure representing 39.5% while N199,708,930,303.37 is for capital expenditure representing 64.1% of the budget.

Based on the sectoral allocation, education has the highest share of N43,208,278,849.28 representing 13.9% of the budget.

Health follows with an allocation of N33,54,686,848.00k representing 10.6% and works which was allocated N24,804,232,263.17 representing 8.0% of the budget.

The governor said the budget was anchored on the five-finger agenda of his administration which include: education, security, women/youth development, infrastructure and health.

He explained that the budget will place specific focus on education including teacher training, improvement of schools and so on. 

According to Kefas, 5% of the budget will be allocated to the Greening Taraba Project in order to preserve the natural beauty of the State and mitigate the effect of climate change.

Speaker of the House, John Kizito Bonzena, acknowledged the good working relationship between the executive and the legislature in the State. He assured of a speedy passage of the budget in order to keep up with the January-December timeframe.

Messi, Mbappe, Haaland finalists for FIFA Best award..

Messi, Mbappe, Haaland finalists for FIFA Best award.

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are the three finalists for the FIFA 2023 Best Men’s Player award, world soccer’s governing body has confirmed.

Norwegian Haaland helped Manchester City win three major trophies, the Champions League, English Premier League and FA Cup last season.

Messi secured the award in 2022 after guiding Argentina to World Cup victory. Following that success, he clinched the Ligue 1 title with Paris St Germain alongside Mbappe before making a move to the Major League Soccer team Inter Miami.

The shortlist for the women’s best player includes two 2023 World Cup champions, Aitana Bonmati and Jennifer Hermoso from Spain, alongside Linda Caicedo, who represents Colombia

EKSG commences payment of N5,000 monthly stipends to 10,000 Indigent Citizens.

EKSG commences payment of N5,000 monthly stipends to 10,000 Indigent Citizens.

Ekiti State Government has commenced payment of N5,000 monthly as palliatives to 10,000 economically vulnerable citizens of the state.

Flagging off the presentation of cheques to beneficiaries on Tuesday at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s office, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, said the gestures were part of the palliatives plans of his administration to cushion the effect of the current economic situation on indigent citizens. 

Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning and Oerformance Management, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, noted that the initiative, which had started for over two months now, will last for five months for 10,000 indigenes of the state.

He said each of the beneficiaries would receive the N5,000 on monthly basis for six months. 

He added that the gesture was part of the state government’s alleviation programme, aimed at ensuring that the less privileged in society feel the presence of government in times of hardship.

He explained that the palliative scheme was occasioned by the Federal Government's removal of subsidy on petroleum products in May this year, leading to increase in the prices of food stuffs and other commodities.

“Having realized the attendant suffering of the low-income earners, Ekiti State Government decided to intervene by giving these categories of people the succour to ameliorate their suffering.

The Commissioner highlighted some of the on-going palliative programmes of the state government to include: distribution of food items, provision of free transport system to support civil/public servants and students, payment of consequential salary adjustment to senior civil/public servants and payment of 2017leave bonus arrears to workers, food bank for elders, among others. 

Mr Adebayo stressed that the 10,000 beneficiaries were selected from the 18,000 Indigent members of the state captured in the Social Register in collaboration with the Federal Government. 

He explained further that the compilation of the Social Register was devoid of political, religious or ethnic colouration adding that their selection was transparent and it cut across all the 16 Local Government and 22 Local Council Development Areas which was subject to periodic reviews to accommodate more indigent members of the society.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Barrister Sola Akinluyi said that the State government commenced the palliative payment in October this year, calling on the people of the state to support the Biodun Oyebanji - led government in its bid to transform the lives of the citizenry.

He commended the Governor for according top priority to the welfare and wellbeing of the people as well as the prompt release of funds for the programme.

One of the beneficiaries, Akinola Tolulope commended Governor Oyebanji for his Shared prosperity agenda for the people of the state and promised that the beneficiaries would make judicious use of the fund.

No Birthday Gift, Advert For Me, Gov Oyebanji Tells Friends, Associates.

No Birthday Gift, Advert For Me, Gov Oyebanji Tells Friends, Associates. 

......urges them to make donations to special schools for PWD.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has told friends, family members, well-wishers and the general public not to organise any birthday party, gift or newspaper advertisement in commemoration of his 56th birthday billed for Thursday, December 21st. 

Instead of advertisement placements, gifts or social gatherings, Governor Oyebanji said anyone willing to celebrate with him should make cash or material donations to the less privileged children in the State.

Specifically, the Governor requested that gifts and cash be sent to the three Government Special Schools in the three senatorial district of the state vis: Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro-Ekiti; Government Special School for the Blind, Ikere-Ekiti; and Government Special School for the Mentally and Physically Challenged, Ido-Ekiti, as well as the State Relief and Rehabiitation Centre for the Mentally Challenged in Ado-Ekiti.

According to a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji said financial and material gifts sent to these schools by his friends and well-wishers would be of greater value and a better appreciated birthday celebration for him, adding that the country is at a point where citizens should make deliberate efforts at reaching out to the less privileged in the society.

The Governor said he was happy at the number of family members, friends and associates that presented gifts to the three special schools during his birthday last year, and the attendant joy the gestures brought to the faces of the students.

Governor Oyebanji said he became happier when he got reports on how each of the schools utilised the financial and material gifts they got from him and his friends to enhance the welfare and wellbeing of the students and to upgrade some facilities within the schools.

The Governor said he would be happy if his friends and well wishers would grant his wishes this year again, by joining him in putting smiles on the faces of the students with disabilities instead of any gift or party they might have in mind.

The Ikogosi-Ekiti born Oyebanji, a former University lecturer turned politician, will be 56 years old on December 21, 2023.

The statement lists the accounts details of the schools as follows: 

1. Government Special School for the Deaf

Ikoro-Ekiti

Union Bank- 0003625836

 

2. Government Special School for the Physically and Mental Challenged.

Ido- Ekiti

Union Bank – 0003574525

 

3. Government Special School for the Blind

Ikere Ekiti

Union Bank - 0003628428

 

4. State Relief and Rehabiitation Centre for the Mentally Challenged

c/o Ekiti State Office of Disability Affairs

     Keystone Bank

     1009135289

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.