I 'll Consolidate on Ajoni LG's Gains in Economy, Security, Job Creation, LG Boss , Ogungbemi Vows.

I 'll Consolidate on Ajoni LG's Gains in Economy, Security, Job Creation, LG Boss , Ogungbemi Vows.

......Pledges loyalty, synergy with Oyebanji's Govt.

Sequel to his swearing-in for a second term tenure, the Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area of Ekiti State, Prince (Amb) Micheal Ogungbemi, has hinted that the veritable platform would propel his spirit and dedication to offer more superlative services that will change the face of the economy of the LCDA.

Specifically, Ogungbemi, who was among the council bosses sworn in by Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Thursday, January 4, 2024, said his second term will focus predominantly on consolidation on the gains already recorded in the security, economy and job creation in the council.

The multiple award winning council boss, who was overwhelmingly reelected in the December 2, 2023 council poll, promised unflagging loyalty and forging of strong synergy with the government of Biodun Oyebanji, for the replication of the 6-point cardinal focus of his administration in the LCDA.

In a statement released in Ayedun Ekiti, after the swearing-in, on Thursday, the council boss, apppreciated Governor Oyebanji, the leaders of the All Progressives Congress in the council and at the state levels and his constituents for deeming him fit of being reelected. 

On what he has in stock for his people, Ogungbemi promised that his focus would be chiefly based on demonstration of outstanding administrative and political mettles that will turn the agrarian council into an agricultural hub, centre of commerce and fertile ground for investment .

He stated the foregoing might not be difficult and tasking to accomplish since he had been able to lay a rocky foundation during his first term, with gradual and steady progresses already being recorded.

In the area of economy, Ogungbemi, said his administration would make significant investment in partnership with private organisations to attract youth into farming banking on the available and expansive arable land in the LCDA.

"Agriculture is one area where we have the comparative advantage. We have good atmospheric condition and available arable land to deploy. In our first term, 80 unemployed graduates were attracted into farming. They were to specialise in cassava and cashew plantation. We will work harder to increase the tally".

In the area of economy, Ogungbemi said his government had built about 100 open market stall and shopping malls in the council, promising to expand the scope to radicalise the face of economy through trading and commerce.

In the area of Human Capital Development, Ogungbemi, said his administration will sustain the strong partnerships he had fostered with Build a School in Africa (BASIA) to shore up facilities in schools, as experienced in the modern schools built in Ayebode and Esun Ekiti to boost school enrolments.  

Ogungbemi added that several other landmark projects like the fight against malnutrition, women empowerment, bursary for students, and others will be sustained to make lives more comfortable for his constituents.

On articulated strides to empower the populace, Ogungbemi, said he will sustain the partnerships with BASIA, Interwave Solutions, African Histories and Genealogical Centre and others to empower Ajoni citizens in the areas of education, job creation and investment to increase the council's contributions to GDP.

"We are not limiting our opportunities for partnership. We are wooing other local and international agencies to see Ajoni as a land of economic opportunitirs and prospects".

Describing security as the fulcrum and anchor for investment drives, the LG Boss, pledged continuous and solid funding for operation EBBORRAC he established to ward off kidnappers, bandits and killer herders out of the border council.

"We are not oblivious of the fact that Ajoni enjoys vast land resource up to Kwara and Kogi borders. But the actvities of marauding herders and other criminals were dissuading our people from taking into farming for us to attain food security status. The farmers-herders' constant clashes is one menace we will tackle head-on.

"But this time, we will adequately fund the operatives of our security outfit called EBBORRAC while also having strong alliance with Amotekun corps to complement their efforts. 

"Right from time, I have been having good relationships with our conventional security outfits like the Police, DSS, and NSCDC. This we are going to strengthen the more to make Ajoni land safe for agriculture and other investments".

Adeleke unveils integrated support package for Osun Council of Obas.

Adeleke unveils integrated support package for Osun Council of Obas.

In recognition of traditional rulers, Governor Ademola Adeleke has unveiled an integrated support package for Osun State Council of Obas as a pillar of peoples’ government.

At the second strategic consultative meeting with the state royal fathers , Governor Adeleke listened attentively to the suggestions and submissions of the royal fathers under the leadership of His Royal Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi before opening up on his plan for the state’s Council of Obas.

Governor Adeleke who reminded the Council of inherited challenges faced by his administration, said his team prioritized royal institutions first because he grew up within a palace environment and because service delivery is best facilitated by royal fathers.

“Our Obas live and dine with the people. They are the custodian of our culture with deep affinity with the people. In Africa, productive collaboration with traditional rulers is therefore the foundation of successful governance”, the Governor posited.

Governor Adeleke disclosed that despite the harsh state of finance, his administration has crafted a support package for the traditional rulers which is already under implementation.

He speaks on the package as follows: ”Our administration will continue to support our Kings for the successful hosting of their town days. We will work on a public- private partnership for town development through town day celebration.

“Medical support for our fathers will also be expanded. We will look into the possibility of health insurance enrollment as we did for pensioners in the state.

“We have already increased the sitting allowances of our Kabiyesi. This has taken effect statewide.

“We are addressing the issue of new cars for our Kabiyesi with all sense of seriousness. Gradually, we will be satisfying this genuine aspiration of our fathers in this respect.

“It is however my singular honour to announce that within the first tenure of our administration, we will build a befitting Council of Obas Secretariat in the state. This will be fully equipped to fully recognise our fathers as a pillar of people’s government.

Going forward, I am using this opportunity to inform our royal fathers that Ipade Imole holds on a quarterly basis. I seek your regular attendance as a Council.

The Governor who also addressed issues raised by the royal fathers, promised to tackle controversies over elevation of Ibas, review of Obaship laws, release of white papers on some kingship stools and the role of royal fathers in state governance.

“ I will direct relevant commissioners to take up all issues raised at this meeting. I also urged our fathers to submit position papers on all issues raised here”, the governor submitted.

The Governor who received applause from Council members said he was elated that “our fathers here have severally testified to our service delivery in road construction, school rehabilitation, water provisions, health care access, workers and pensioners welfare.

“We crowned our one year super delivery with the unveiling of the multi-billion naira infra agenda designed to prepare Osun as an investment and global tourism destination. I am happy to report that implementation of the plan has commenced statewide.

“My highly revered royal fathers, we have been managing state finance with a high level of prudence and self sacrifice. My security vote is going for state development. As we are tightening our belts, we are spending on infrastructure and human support.

“We are tapping into new sources of revenue. The reform of the solid mineral sector is ongoing. The goal is to ensure maximum benefit for the state from her natural resources. We are working to improve internally generated revenue without imposing an excessive tax burden on our people.

“We cultivated a culture of saving for project execution. Unlike practice in the past, federal interventions under our watch are judiciously administered. In recent months following the economic crisis triggered at the national level, we implemented palliative administration in transparent and accountable manners. We did not hoard palliative materials. We rather allowed the public through various associations to handle the distribution.

“In a demonstration of responsible leadership, we created a project account to keep the N7 billion naira federal intervention fund. As the state is spending multi-billion naira on infra agenda, the N7 billion is an addition to contribute to the bridging of the state infra deficit.

“Our governance ambition is multi-dimensional. Your government is pushing to achieve a decade old ambition within four years. My friends tell me my plans are too ambitious but I respond to them that we are too late to allow the sky to be our limit.

The Osun agro-sector must develop. We must grow our creative industry with the full involvement of our traditional rulers. We are matching with God towards that goal.

Responding , the Chairman of the Osun State Council of Obas, His Royal Majesty, Oba Ogunwusi commended the Governor for his good governance records and delivery of service to the people

FG promises more investment in health research.

FG promises more investment in health research.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Tunji Alausa, on Thursday, said the Federal Government would improve health outcomes and allocate funds for national health infrastructure and research to create a stronger healthcare system in the country.

Alausa made this known during the inauguration of the National Health Research Committee in the Yaba Local Government Area of Lagos State on Thursday.

He added that the growth of health care in the country can be achieved by utilising strategic alliances, technological investments, and the promotion of an inquisitive culture, to tackle the distinct health issues of the country.

He said, “Our vision for health research in Nigeria is anchored in the pursuit of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity. We envision a nation where cutting-edge research becomes the cornerstone of our healthcare system. Through strategic partnerships, investment in technology, and fostering a culture of inquiry, we aim to harness the power of knowledge to address the unique health challenges that our diverse population faces.”

The minister noted that the goal of the federal government is to establish a setting where researchers, physicians, and public health experts can collaborate to develop solutions that cut across national boundaries and enhance global health.

“In this vision, health research is not just a scientific endeavour but a dynamic force that propels us toward evidence-based policies and practices. We aspire to create an environment where our researchers, clinicians, and public health professionals work hand in hand to pioneer solutions that transcend borders, contributing to global health advancements.

“Our vision for health research in Nigeria is deeply rooted in the recognition that knowledge is the bedrock of a robust and effective healthcare system,” he said.

It was earlier reported that Alausa said the Federal Government would digitalise the healthcare system for better health outcomes.

He also said the government would increase funding for research and digitalising the health system would help to facilitate accurate data to improve the sector in line with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Tinubu.

The Chairman of the committee, Olufumilayo Olapade, stated that it will take the nation two years to advance its technological capabilities to promote health-related research with government backing.

She added, “Research and data is everywhere as much as you put the necessary resources in place. Artificial Intelligence is there, and we are building everything better and smarter.

It will not take us forty years to do it, rather it will take us up to two years as long as we work together. We have a good government that is ready to put all of these in place.”

She further stated that Africa has the youngest labour force in the world, therefore, it is ahead of the game.

“This is a committee that can do transformation at work. I spent the pandemic working with collaborators. All eyes are on Africa to be our moment to shine in science and technology. We have to keep working hard to get resources and we are already ahead of the game. Nigerians are everywhere in the world and Africa has the youngest workforce in the world and every company will come to Africa,” she noted.

Nollywood Veteran Olofa Ina Passes Away at 73.

Nollywood Veteran Olofa Ina Passes Away at 73.

Popular Nollywood Veteran, Chief Adedeji Aderemi aka Olofa Ina is dead, The Nation has learnt.

Actor, Saidi Balogun, confirmed his passing in a post shared on his Instagram account on Thursday, January 4.

He wrote: “Goodnight legend Chief Deji Akinremi (Olofa Ina) RIP.

Film producer and Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON) also confirmed his demise.

Aderemi who is the Sobaloju of Edeland, was 73. Chief Aderemi is a renowned name in contemporary Yoruba theatre and film circle.

He is also famous for the rich Yoruba proverbs and idioms that punctuate his lines in various films and stage plays

He was born into the family of the late Chief AbdulSalam Aderemi and the late madam Aisha Aderemi of Jagun- Olukosi compound, Ede in Osun State on 15th May, 1950 during the reign of the late Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, the then Timi of Ede.

He had his primary education at St. Peters Anglican Primary School between 1957 and 1962 and then proceeded to Baptist Secondary Modern School, Ode-Omu from 1963 to 1965.

He later had his vocational training in carpentry and joinery at Olukorede Furniture Industry between 1965 and 1970.

Prior to 1980, he had earlier floated the Olofa Ina Theatre Group in 1972 with the likes of Erinfolamin, Dasofunjo, Gbolagade Akinpelu and the late Oyetunji of Esinnla compound, Ede. He received his theatre training under the late Oyetunji.

The Olofa Ina Group recorded landmark achievements in the theatre industry by pioneering the staging of epical histories of the Yoruba warlords of the 18th and 19th centuries, including Basorun Ogunmola, Balogun Ibikunle, Ogedengbe Agbogungboro of Ilesha, Aare Kurunmi of Ijaye, Kakanfo Afonja and a host of others.

These productions were recorded by Nigerian Television (NTV) Ibadan in the 70s and were narrated by the late Dr. Babayemi then, of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan who later became the Oba Olufi of Gbongan, Osun state.

Olofa Ina also recorded series of television productions among which are Odetedo, Lakaaye, Kogun Maja, and Ade Oba.

Newly Inaugurated Chairman of Ifedara LCDA, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, Vows to Prioritize Community Welfare.

Newly Inaugurated Chairman of Ifedara LCDA, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, Vows to Prioritize Community Welfare.

By Olamide Akinwumi J.

Ifedara Local Council Development Area (LCDA) witnessed the swearing-in of its newly elected chairman, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, who expressed his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises and enhancing the lives of the people in the region.

Hon Lawrence shared his vision with journalists on Thursday after the swearing-in ceremony. He pledged, "I will leverage all my powers and efforts to bring about positive impacts and changes in Ifedara LCDA; may God help me."

Emphasizing that he would not disappoint the constituents, the chairman assured the delivery of sound and effective governance. "I will ensure inclusivity during my tenure, involving children, youths, adults, males, and females, with their opinions heard through community engagement programs."

Affirming his dedication to democratic principles, Hon Lawrence promised to run a fair and equitable government, reaching all communities within Ifedara LCDA. He acknowledged the significance of traditional rulers, religious leaders, labor leaders, market women leaders, community leaders, youth leaders, political leaders, and other stakeholders, stating that they would be duly recognized in his administration.

Commending Governor Oyebanji for promoting youth inclusion and spearheading the development of Ekiti State, Hon Lawrence pledged to collaborate closely with the governor's six pillars of administration for the betterment of his constituents.

He urged the people of Ifedara LCDA to offer prayers and support, acknowledging that he cannot achieve his goals alone. "I need your prayers and support to elevate the LCDA to its peaks," he stated.

The newly inaugurated chairman expressed optimism about the future, outlining his dedication to fostering progress and prosperity in Ifedara LCDA.

Aiyedatiwa Pays Homage To PA Fasoranti, Afenifere, Seeks Support For The Development Of Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa Pays Homage To PA Fasoranti, Afenifere, Seeks Support For The Development Of Ondo State. 

.....Falae, Arogbofa, Akorede, others pray for Governor’s success in leading Ondo State.

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday paid a visit to the elder statesman, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, and leaders of the pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, during which he lauded their contributions to the development of the State and Nigeria.

Accompanied by top government officials and aides, the Governor said the visit was partly to pay homage to the elders and leaders to thank them for the fatherly role they played in restoring peace during the political crisis in the State.

He said: “I extend my heartfelt greetings to Chief Reuben Fasoranti and the distinguished elders present. Your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to our State’s stability. In the past, during challenging times, your intervention, particularly the letter you wrote to President Bola Tinubu advocating constitutional adherence, restored peace to our state. Your counsel has been instrumental.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa also conveyed to the elders the news of the passing of the former Governor of the State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, promising to give him a befitting burial and continue with all his ongoing developmental projects and programmes.   

The Governor reiterated his dedication to serving the people of Ondo State while upholding the late Governor’s legacy, seeking the support of the elders in the tasks ahead.

During the visit, Oba Olu Falae, the Oluabo of Ilu Abo, highlighted the urgency of preserving the Yoruba language from the brink of extinction, urging the Governor to join his colleagues in the south west to implement policies that will protect and preserve the Yoruba language.

He commended Ondo State’s history of leadership in positive initiatives, including the establishment of the Amotekun security outfit aimed at securing lives and property within the region. He also urged the Governor to consider some new road projects in the State, especially in rural areas.

Also, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa extended condolences to Governor Aiyedatiwa during the visit. He emphasized the need for immense goodwill for success and pledged their support, highlighting the elders’ commitment to the welfare of the people of the State.

Recounting the historical precedence set during the days of Ajasin’s administration, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to leave a lasting mark on the State, adding: “You are in charge now, take charge. Never forget those who stood by you during challenging times.”

Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on his part, conveyed the support and goodwill of the elders and offered a prayer for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. “May divine guidance and wisdom accompany you in this significant phase of leadership. I pray for success and prosperity in your administration,” Chief Fasoranti prayed.

Governor Aiyedatiwa received the prayers with gratitude, expressing appreciation for the support and blessings bestowed upon him, promising to always seek the counsel of the elders in leading the State forward. 

Ondo PDP Disagrees With NWC Over Chairman's Suspension, Appoints Deputy As Acting Chairman.

Ondo PDP Disagrees With NWC Over Chairman's Suspension, Appoints Deputy As Acting Chairman.

As a follow-up to the purported suspension of the party’s Chairman, Hon. Fatai Adams, the Ondo State Executive Council (SEC) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has today appointed Tola Alabere, as the acting State Chairman of the party.

This was disclosed at a press conference after an emergency meeting of the SEC at the party’s secretariat in Akure, on Thursday, following the suspension of Fatai Adams by nine out of the eleven members of the State Working Committee.

The State Working Committee (SWC) of PDP had suspended Adams, citing alleged anti-party activities and actions detrimental to the party’s reputation.

However, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, in his blunt response to the purported suspension, said the National Working Committee (NWC) had dismissed the suspension, declaring it null and void, emphasizing that the state committee lacked the authority to suspend the chairman without recourse to the national body.

The Ondo State Chapter of the party has however defended the suspension, asserting that according to the party’s constitution, all levels possess the power to discipline erring members within their ranks, including the State Chairman.

They highlighted that nine out of eleven SWC members signed the suspension letter, signaling a lack of confidence in Adams’ leadership.

But today, after giving concurrence to Adams’ suspension, the SEC of the party took a step further by approving the appointment of the State Vice Chairman, Tola Alabere, to take over the affairs of the party as acting state chairman of the PDP in Ondo State.

Addressing newsmen, the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Kenneth Peretei said the decision to appoint Alabere followed the due process and in line with the party’s constitution.