Oyebanji Strengthens Agricultural Collaboration in Working Visit to Federal Ministry.

Oyebanji Strengthens Agricultural Collaboration in Working Visit to Federal Ministry.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a decisive move to reinforce the commitment to agricultural development, Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji, embarked on a working visit to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture today. The Governor, a staunch advocate for agribusiness and rural development, engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration with federal agencies to achieve the agricultural objectives outlined in the BAO administration's development agenda.

Upon his arrival at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Governor Oyebanji was warmly received by the Honourable Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Sen. Abubakar Kyari, and the Minister of State Agriculture and Food Security, Hon Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi. The presence of both federal ministers underscores the importance attached to fostering collaboration between the federal and state governments in advancing agricultural initiatives.

Agriculture and rural development stand as one of the six pillars of the development agenda of the BAO administration, and Governor Oyebanji is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring its success. The working visit signifies a proactive approach to engaging with relevant federal agencies and institutions to align strategies and goals for agribusiness and food security.

During the discussions, the Governor and the federal ministers explored potential areas of collaboration, innovative agricultural practices, and initiatives that would propel Ekiti State to the forefront of sustainable and productive agriculture. The Governor reiterated his administration's dedication to leveraging partnerships to achieve tangible results in the agricultural sector.

The collaborative efforts between Ekiti State and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture aim to harness the full potential of the agricultural sector, not only for economic growth but also to ensure food security within the state. The discussions focused on creating a synergy that will facilitate the implementation of impactful agricultural policies and projects.

As the meeting concluded, Governor Oyebanji expressed optimism about the future of agriculture in Ekiti State, emphasizing the importance of a united front in achieving agricultural excellence. The commitment of both state and federal authorities to working collaboratively bodes well for the realization of the BAO administration's agricultural development goals.

This working visit serves as a testament to Governor Biodun Oyebanji's proactive governance style, leveraging partnerships to drive progress in key sectors of the state's economy. The collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture is poised to bring about transformative changes, contributing significantly to the growth of agribusiness and ensuring food security for the people of Ekiti State.

Cavista Holdings appoints Alhaji Dauda Lawal as Director of Community Engagement.

Cavista Holdings appoints Alhaji Dauda Lawal as Director of Community Engagement.

Cavista Holdings has appointed Alhaji Dauda Lawal, (ADL) as the Director of Community Engagement. Additionally, he will serve as the Executive Director of the Agbeyewa Farm Community Development Foundation (AFCDF). The appointment into the dual role positions, is part of the strategic vision that aligns with our company's goals, which will enable ADL to bring his wealth of experience and proven track record of success in Communications, Community Development, and Leadership to both entities. 

Cavista Holdings, with diverse operations across Nigeria, Botswana, the US, the UK, Canada, India, the Philippines, and New Zealand, stands as a global leader in strategic investments. The company's varied portfolio spans agriculture, energy, hospitality, mining, and technology, contributing to economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development on four continents.

In the new capacity, ADL will provide visionary leadership to meet the needs and goals of individuals and neighborhood groups. His responsibilities will include deepening community relationships, strengthening connections, and offering invaluable advice for the long-term success of community projects.

As the Executive Director of AFCDF, ADL will oversee administration and programme implementation in alignment with the foundation's mission and vision. His key duties encompass resource mobilization, organizational profiling, community outreach, and leadership in philanthropic growth.

This strategic move that marks a pivotal step forward for our organization, is part of our ongoing commitment to elevate our company to new heights. As we continue to navigate the dynamic landscape of our industries and sectors, ADL will play a pivotal role in shaping our strategic direction, fostering collaboration across teams, and driving initiatives that will contribute to our long-term success.

Born in Isan Ekiti over 50 years ago, ADL studied Social Studies at Ondo State University (now Ekiti State University). With a rich background in Community Development and Leadership spanning over two decades, he garnered extensive experience in a World Bank funded Project under the Ekiti State Community and Social Development Agency. He also served previously under former Governor Dr. Kayode Fayemi as a Community Development expert. 

ADL also brings a decade of experience as a media practitioner with notable newspaper outfits in Nigeria.

Married with children, ADL's appointment is a testament to his dedication and expertise. We look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to Cavista Holdings and AFCDF.

Welcome to the Team, Alhaji Dauda Lawal.

Oyebanji Explores Collaboration with Finland in Science, Technology, and Innovation.

Oyebanji Explores Collaboration with Finland in Science, Technology, and Innovation.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a strategic move towards fostering international partnerships, Governor Biodun Oyebanji engaged in a high-profile meeting earlier today with the Finland Ambassador to Nigeria, Her Excellency Leena Pylvanainen. The meeting, held in Abuja, focused on identifying potential areas of cooperation, with a specific emphasis on advancing science, technology, and innovation.

Attending the meeting alongside Governor Oyebanji was the Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Seun Fakuade. The presence of Commissioner Fakuade underscored the commitment of Ekiti State to leveraging global collaborations to enhance its capabilities in the crucial sectors of science and technology.

The discussions, marked by an atmosphere of diplomatic camaraderie, delved into the exploration of joint initiatives and knowledge exchange programs between Ekiti State and Finland. Both parties expressed a keen interest in fostering innovation and technological advancements that would contribute to the socio-economic development of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji, in his address during the meeting, highlighted the significance of international collaborations in elevating the state's technological landscape. He emphasized the commitment of Ekiti State to harnessing global expertise and best practices for the benefit of its citizens.

Her Excellency Leena Pylvanainen commended Governor Oyebanji's proactive approach and expressed Finland's readiness to share its technological advancements and innovative practices. The Ambassador stressed the importance of such partnerships in creating a conducive environment for the growth of science and technology.

Commissioner Seun Fakuade actively participated in the discussions, presenting potential areas of collaboration and detailing the state's readiness to embrace cutting-edge technologies that align with global standards.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from both parties to formalize the collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This document is expected to outline the specific areas of cooperation, joint initiatives, and the framework for ongoing collaboration in science, technology, and innovation.

As Ekiti State aims to position itself as a hub for technological innovation, this meeting signifies a pivotal step towards achieving that goal through strategic global partnerships. The collaboration with Finland holds the promise of bringing advanced technological solutions and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and progress in Ekiti State.

APC governors pledge to implement Tinubu’s policies.

APC governors pledge to implement Tinubu’s policies.

The Progressives Governors Forum has assured of the implementation of the policies of the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government at the grassroots and a better welfare for Nigerians.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, Chairman of the forum, gave the assurance at the end of its meeting.

The PGF is the umbrella body of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress governors.

Uzodimma told newsmen at the end of the meeting in the early hours of Thursday in Abuja that the governors were determined to ensure the security in the country.

He said: “We have agreed on how best to support our party, President Bola Tinubu and his government and get his policies down to the grassroots.

“We agreed on how to support the president with a view to maximising the benefits of his policies, we are united in ensuring that we take his policies to the grassroots.”

He added that as sub-national leaders, the governors were poised to ensure that the country was secure, saying that they are also working to provide adequate welfare to Nigerians.

On the ongoing corruption allegations against Betta Edu, the suspended Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Uzodinma said the only perfect being is God Almighty.

He added that while the functions of government included to encourage good things and good appointees, and discourage bad things and bad appointees, the case against Edu was just an allegation.

“And in the wisdom of the President, she is being investigated, it is after the investigation is concluded and the report made available to the government that it will take a final decision,” he said.

The PGF Chairman said Nigerians should therefore not be in a hurry to conclude her case.

On the forthcoming off-season elections in Ondo and Edo States slated for November, Uzodinma said the APC was prepared to go into any election anytime.

The meeting which was held at Imo Governor’s Lodge was attended by Governors Hope Uzodinma (Imo Governor and PGF chairman), Yahaya Bello (Kogi), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Yahaya Inuwa (Gombe), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe) and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).

Others are Lucky Aiyetadiwa (Ondo), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq (Kwara) and Bassey Otu (Cross River) as well as Abiodun Oyebanji (Ekiti).

I Will Support Tinubu Without Apologies – PDP Chieftain, Bwala.

I Will Support Tinubu Without Apologies – PDP Chieftain, Bwala. 

A chieftain of the opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party, Daniel Bwala, on Wednesday, said he is committed to supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu, even if that requires him to defect to the All Progressives Congress.

“I told him today, I am committing to play my part to support your administration, and I have no apologies to anybody,” Bwala told State House correspondents after closed-door talks with the President at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

“APC is a party. President Bola Tinubu is my motivation; if supporting him will take me to APC, so be it,” he stated when asked if he would defect to the APC.

On January 2, 2024, Bwala, a staunch critic of the governing APC and the Tinubu administration, said opposition political parties must form a strong coalition if they would successfully wrestle power from the governing APC in the 2027 general elections.

Bwala, a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, said that without a coalition of opposition parties, President Tinubu would spend eight years in office.

“Without a coalition of political parties, Tinubu is going to spend the next eight years. That one is for sure.

“The truth of the matter is that there will be a coalition of political parties that will be very strong. This is a fact that I know.

“The coalition that is coming will swallow some of the elements that are creating the problems in the various political parties,” he said.

He commended the President’s suspension of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr Betta Edu, saying, “Some of his (Tinubu’s) Ministers that were allegedly reported to have committed infractions, instead of protecting them, he asked that the law should have its course and suspended somebody without wasting time. That, to me, is impressive because it’s about the people.”

Referring to Tuesday’s announcement of a 60 per cent slash in travel entourages for the Presidency and MDAs, Bwala remarked, “There has been this outcry that the government is bloated. Yesterday, he introduced a policy that reduced the cost of governance and today, he told me it is just the beginning.”

The legal practitioner said the President assured him that more cost-cutting measures are underway to reduce the cost of governance.

“What have we been talking about as citizens is that if you don’t have a personal grudge against someone…if it is a policy issue.

“What I’m saying apart from today that I’m talking here is that you all need to visit my Twitter page. In the last few days, I have been expressing my surprise and appreciation to the President for the decisions he is making. So, this is not about political party. And you need to know that, like I said, I was with him before I left. And I was doggedly committed to him.

“I told him today that I am committing to play my part to support your administration, and I have no apologies to anybody,” he explained.

Eno seeks Tinubu’s support for Ibom Deep Seaport, oil palm projects.

Eno seeks Tinubu’s support for Ibom Deep Seaport, oil palm projects.

Akwa Ibom state governor, Umo Eno, on Wednesday, met with President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja, to make a couple of requests, including federal government’s collaboration in the development of the Ibom Deep Seaport project.

Governor Eno, who said his primary reason for the visit was to wish President Tinubu Happy New Year, saying he sought his assistance in his state’s efforts at reviving the moribund state-owned oil palm project, which had been in limbo for about 28 years.

Governor Eno, who explained that the Ibom Deep Seaport project would meet the maritime needs of the South-south and Southeast region, however disclosed that the President had directed him to submit a memorandum for the projects he made the requests on.

According to him, the Ibom Deep Seaport has the deepest wharf that has the capacity to bring in ship from across the globe while it also serve Niger-Delta Region of Nigeria.

“The purpose of my visit to the President is to wish him a happy new year and also make a request. You know when governors come to see the President, this is the seat of government, you have one or two things to talk about.

 

“So, wishing the President a happy New Year was paramount for us and we pray that God will keep him in good health and continue to give him the strength to carry on his work as the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Then following that, we also have a request. We’ve talked and requested him to support us with our Ibom Deep Seaport and agricultural programme on the oil palm.

“Ibom Deep Seaport has the deepest wharf that will bring in ship and we can ship from that point. Again, Lagos is there, but you also know Lagos is congested. Of course that is no story. So you need a deep seaport that will take care of the Southeast, South-south, if you like, the Niger Delta region. Thank you all”, he said.

On the request for federal government’s assistance in the efforts to revamp the oil palm project, he said Akwa Ibom is targeting increased production, which can lead to capacity to export palm oil

“Akwa Ibom is an oil palm zone and we have started the process of revamping the moribund industry that has laid there for 28 years. It is being revamped right now. We need the support of the federal government to be able to have a full value-chain and then bring people to work and be able to help Nigeria.

“We can even get to exporting palm oil, because right now, we’re still importing a lot of it. So that’s why I came and it was a good visit.”

Responding to a question on how President Tinubu received him and his request, as well as the concerns expressed over the viability of the state-run airliner, Ibom Sir, the governor said “the President has graciously granted that I bring the memo for the requests and including MRO of course.

“The president is a businessman, he had to also ask, are we making profits running Ibom air because government as to business and government I told him government is completely out of the running of Ibom Air.

“Ibom Air is making profit and they are ploughing it back for expansion and the airport facility, the second taxiway is on, we have the new terminal, we have the MRO and he was pleased to hear that.

“We need to partner with the federal government of course, to get work going in the state. Akwa Ibom is part of Nigeria, he is the President of Nigeria, he needs to know how one of his component states is doing. I just came for normal briefing though.”

'We will get justice for slain Nigerian student killed by Canadian Police~Asefon.'

‘We will get justice for slain Nigerian student killed by Canadian Police~ Asefon.'

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Students Engagement, Comr. Sunday Dayo Asefon has expressed dismay over the killing of Stephen Afolabi Opaso, a Nigerian student who was studying in the University of Manitoba Canada.

He described the killing as barbaric, cruel and heartless and vowed to engage the High Commission of Canada in Nigeria, and further collaborate with the Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Ministry and Chairperson of NIDCOM, Abike Dabiri-Erewa to ensure that the incident is not swept under the carpet.

The late Stephen Afolabi Opaso, a 19-year-old Nigerian international student in Canada identified as fondly called Zigi by peers, was shot dead by the Winnipeg Police Service in Manitoba on December 31, 2023.

The deceased was alleged to have been wielding a knife at and had mental health crisis at the time of the incident.

The Winnipeg Police in a statement, acknowledged the confrontation with an armed male but provided limited details.

“On December 31, 2023, at approximately 2:22 p.m., the Winnipeg Police Service responded to an apartment suite in the first 100 block of University Crescent for a 911 call regarding a male acting erratically. The caller advised the male may be armed and there were other people in the suite.

‘’During this encounter, an officer discharged their firearm, striking the male. Officers provided immediate medical care and ensured the well-being of all other parties on scene. Nobody else was injured.

‘’The male was transported to hospital in critical condition and succumbed to his injuries,” the statement read.

Asefon said the impression in the public as gathered during an interaction with National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, earlier on the case is that the killing was racially motivated as the deceased student was not welding a gun at the time of the incident and that the police officers would have acted differently if he were to be a white.

He appealed to NANS and the entire Nigerian students to remain calm, and vowed to follow the case up diligently until Canadian authorities give true account of the death of the Nigerian student and compensate his family accordingly to avoid a diplomatic row that may lead to the closure of their embassy in Nigeria by NANS if no action is taken by Federal Government.

He also urged Nigerian Students in Canada to remain peaceful as his office will ensure that justice is served.