Bisi Akande, a living legend, says Oyebanji.

Bisi Akande, a living legend, says Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has described a former Governor of Osun State and frontline leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande as a living legend who has contributed immensely to nation building through his sound democratic ideas. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Sunday during the pre- birthday lecture and inter-faith thanksgiving and prayers organized to commemorate Chief Akande’s 85th birthday at his residence in Ila Orangun, Osun State, said the former Governor is a true democrat and a living example of a true leader whose virtues of accountability, transparency, and selfless service are worthy of emulation.

Expressing his admiration for Chief Akande’s exceptional qualities,  Governor Oyebanji who was the Special Guest of Honour at the events, said Baba Akande is not only a great man but also a great mind whose extensive contributions to Nigerian politics and steadfast dedication to the principles of nationalism has made him a beacon of inspiration for many leaders and aspiring leaders.

He described Akande as one the great political leaders who worked tirelessly to ensure the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of the country. 

While thanking the former Osun State Governor for the continued guidance and mentorship he provides, Governor Oyebanji commended his remarkable depth of knowledge on various issues, spanning government, economy, international affairs, among others. 

“We are here to celebrate a great man, a great mind, a nationalist and a truly Awoist that is still living. Thank you for your generosity of spirit, thank you for living a selfless life and for staying connected to your root, Ila Orogun” the Governor said”.

Thousands of Chief Akande’s followers and admirers, including children and youths thronged the Ila Orangun residence for the pre- birthday events. 

Governor Oyebanji was accompanied on the visit by the Ekiti State Chairman of APC, Barrister Paul Omotoso; Chairman, Local Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide; Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae and Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

Nigerian War Veterans Deserve Nigerians' Respect, Honour, Says Oyebanji.

Nigerian War Veterans Deserve Nigerians'  Respect, Honour, Says Oyebanji.

 .....Urges citizens to preserve patriotic, sacrificial spirits of fallen heroes.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that the Nigerian war veterans who lost their lives in the battles to keep Nigeria together deserve honour and respect from governments and all citizens for protecting the country's national and territorial integrity.

Oyebanji said the fact that these fallen heroes fought during the civil war and still confronting other sectarian battles to keep the nation together, were suffice for the citizens to give their families enormous support and respect. 

In the midst of the multifaceted insecurity bedlams pummeling the nation, the governor reiterated his commitment to prioritize the security of lives and prosperity of Ekiti citizens by making the state a no-go-area for criminals through lofty support for security agencies.

Governor Oyebanji said these on Sunday , during a thanksgiving service  commemorating the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the   Government House Chapel in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

Oyebanji, represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd), praised the legionnaires for their sacrifices for the nation, saying efforts must be intensified for their services not to result to nought.

He appealed to the public to support them and their families considering their level of commitment to promoting security of the nation, regardless of the risks involved.

He said : "Armed Forces Remembrance Day was put in place to celebrate the meritorious service of the retired soldiers and the fallen heroes who fought for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

"Looking at these sacrifices, they deserve a lot of praises from the people. The public must support the families they left behind likewise the legacy of patriotism, love and unity they fought to protect our dear nation.

"Let me also  reaffirm the commitment of the present administration to prioritise security matters in the state, because welfare and security of the citizens are the two main cardinal objectives of any government and we will keep to these".

In his sermon at the event, the Chaplain, Ekiti State Government House, Pastor Segun Awolumate, called on all levels of government to improve the welfare of legionnaires, so that they can live fruitful and  worthy lives after  retirements.

The Cleric  posited that adequate reward for the war veterans remained  the most important signal that can be sent to the upcoming soldiers to be able to show patriotism in service.

Pastor Awolumate encouraged the soldiers not to be disillusioned by the goings in the country to actualise the dream of making Nigeria  overcome the challenges of insecurity, assuring that God would reward their sincerity and dedication to duties.

Present at the event were: The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dare Ogundare, representatives of the  Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, members of the State Executive Council, Local Government chairmen, clergymen, among others.

Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo Assures On Safety Of School Children.

Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo Assures On Safety Of School Children.

The Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has assured adequate security for school children in both urban and rural areas in the country.

The Minister gave the assurance during the graduation ceremony of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Course, undertaken by over 200 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps at the Defence Intelligence College in Karu, Abuja.

The course is to enhance the competence of the selected officers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Tunji-Ojo expressed optimism that Nigeria would be great through the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He said: “The most critical asset that a country can boast of are the children of the nation. Because with them lies the future, so safe keeping and securing our schools is obviously securing the future of Nigeria.

“It’s not about securing our children in the urban areas, we will not rest until our children even in the most remote areas of this country are secured.

“Every inch of this country, by the grace of God, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be secured. A child in Damboa will have the confidence to go to school, as a child in Abuja. That is the target, that is the aim.

“This is how important it is to this government and as Minister of Interior with the express permission of Mr. President, this is a task that would not just be seen to have been done, but a task that will actually be done.

“Nigeria must be great, Nigeria must be protected and Nigerians, once again must be able to smile, knowing fully well that there is a government of renewed hope that does not just care about them but a government that is ready to sacrifice everything for the purpose of their security and safety.”

Governor Oyebanji Honors Chief Bisi Akande at 85th Birthday Celebration.

Governor Oyebanji Honors Chief Bisi Akande at 85th Birthday Celebration.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a remarkable display of unity and reverence, Governor Biodun Oyebanji served as the Special Guest of Honour at the Inter-Faith Prayers, Thanksgiving, and Pre-birthday lecture organized to commemorate the 85th birthday of former Osun State Governor and prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), His Excellency, Chief Bisi Akande. The celebratory event took place at Chief Akande's Ila-Orangun country home, drawing esteemed personalities from various walks of life.

Accompanying Governor Oyebanji were notable figures including the state chairman of APC, Barr Paul Omotoso; Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide; Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Otunba Kayode Fasae, and Special Adviser, Media, Yinka Oyebode. Their collective presence underscored the significance of Chief Akande's contributions to both the party and the development of Osun State.

During the event, Governor Oyebanji conveyed warm greetings from his fellow Governors to the celebrant, affectionately known as Baba Omo Keekeke by his multitude of admirers. The atmosphere resonated with gratitude and celebration as attendees joined in expressing their respect and admiration for Chief Akande's unwavering commitment to public service and the APC.

The Inter-Faith Prayers, a central part of the commemorative event, symbolized the diverse and inclusive nature of Chief Akande's influence, bringing together individuals from different religious backgrounds to offer thanks and blessings. This inclusive approach mirrors Chief Akande's legacy as a unifying figure within the APC.

The Pre-birthday lecture, a thoughtful addition to the festivities, provided a platform for reflection on Chief Akande's achievements and the enduring impact of his leadership. It showcased the intellectual depth and foresight that have characterized his political career, inspiring both the younger generation and contemporaries.

As Chief Bisi Akande stands at the threshold of his 85th year, the Inter-Faith Prayers, Thanksgiving, and Pre-birthday lecture not only celebrated the man but also served as a testament to the unity and strength within the APC. Governor Biodun Oyebanji's presence and conveyance of greetings from his colleagues underscored the respect and camaraderie that exist among APC leaders.

The event, marked by its significance and the distinguished personalities in attendance, will undoubtedly be etched in the annals of political and social history as a moment of shared celebration and reflection on the enduring legacy of Chief Bisi Akande.

EKSG Strengthen Fire Fighting Service With Eight Vehicles, Pledges Improved Response.

EKSG Strengthen Fire Fighting Service With Eight Vehicles, Pledges Improved Response.

Towards ensuring the fulfilment of the promise to reposition the State Fire Services for quick response to distressed calls during emergency situations, the Ekiti State Government, has strengthened the sector with eight fire fighting equipment.

Giving the breakdown of the fleet while test running the vehicles in Ado Ekiti, on Friday, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aliko, said the new vehicles consist of refurbished six FIre Fighting Trucks and two Water Tankers to be deployed to various offices for effective emergency responses.

Aluko, had in a meeting held with the State Fire Service personnel during the 2024 work plan meeting of the ministry, said the parastatal has been making remarkable strides under Biodun Oyebanji Administration by swiftly responding to the yearnings of the citizens.

He stated that Governor Oyebanji during a visit to the Ado Fire Service Headquarters, promised that the State Fire Services will be better equipped, describing the procurement as keeping to the pledge made during the assessment tour.

With the new equipment and many still in the pipeline, Aluko urged the personnel to work collaboratively with all stakeholders to achieve a high fire safety status across the state.

” I encourage the Fire Service personnel to focus more on fire prevention and safety to reduce the incidents of fire outbreaks and distressed calls in the state by making judicious use of these equipment”.

While test- running the equipment during a fire fighting platform and fire drilling exercise in Ado-Ekiti, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Olumide Ajayi, charged the Officers of the Service to discharge their duties maximally, especially in times of emergencies.

He stated that Fire fighting equipment would be distributed to the seven Fire Service Stations located in Ado, Ikere, Omuo, Ikole, Ijero, Aramoko and Ido Ekiti to effectively curtail fire outbreaks and loss of property to inferno.

“The existing fire stations will be upgraded in coming years, and more will be built across the state to reduce response time. So the staff must work assiduously towards accomplishing the mandates of state fire services, which include: extinguishing, controlling and preventing of fire outbreaks in public and private facilities”.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser/Director General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr John Ekundayo, commended the efforts of the State Government for repairing the faulty Fire fighting equipment.

He charged the officers in charge to make judicious use of the equipment for the benefit of Ekiti people and conduct themselves well in the discharge of their duties.

Ekundayo, advised the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, in conjunction the Fire Service Department to embark on more awareness and sensitization programmes that will help people to always take precautions to avoid fire outbreak, especially during the dry season.

Dangote thanks Tinubu, Nigerians over refinery’s takeoff.

Dangote thanks Tinubu, Nigerians over refinery’s takeoff.

President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has expressed  appreciation to President Bola Tinubu  for his vision and support which  he said encouraged him to embark on the Dangote Refinery project some years back.

The refinery formally took off  on Friday with the production of diesel and aviation fuel.

Speaking with stakeholders in the oil and gas industry on the historic start of domestic refining of petroleum products that will eliminate dependence on importation of refined products in the country, Dangote recalled the support, encouragement, and thoughtful advice he got from President Tinubu towards the actualisation of the refinery project.

 “This production, as witnessed today, would not have been possible without his (Tinubu’s) visionary leadership and prompt attention to detail,” Dangote said.

He added: “His intervention at various stages cleared all impediments, thereby accelerating the actualisation of the project.”

The Group Head, Corporate Communications, Dangote Group ,Mr Anthony Chiejina quoted Dangote as saying the diesel and aviation fuel from the refinery would be available at the stands  within the next two weeks.

Dangote said: “We have started the production of diesel and aviation fuel, and the products will be in the market before the end of the month.

“This is a big day for Nigeria. We are delighted to have reached this significant milestone.

“This is an important achievement for our country as it demonstrates our ability to develop and deliver large capital projects.

“This is a game changer for our country, and I am very fulfilled with the actualisation of this project.

“The refinery has so far received six million barrels of crude oil at its two SPMs located 25 kilometres from the shore.

“The first crude delivery was done on Dec. 12, 2023, and the 6th cargo was delivered on Jan. 8, 2024,” he added.

He said that the refinery can load 2,900 trucks a day at its truck-loading gantries.

He added that the products from the refinery will conform to Euro V specifications.

Dangote boss said that the refinery design complies with the World Bank, US EPA, European emission norms, and Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) emission/effluent norms. State-of-the-art technology.

He also acknowledged the support of the  Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd., the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Nigerians for their support and belief in the historic project.

“These organisations have been our dependable partners in this historic journey,” he said.

The National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Alhaji Abubakar Maigandi, told  The Nation by  phone yesterday that members of the association could not wait to have the price list of all the products.

“We want to know Dangote petroleum products prices. We will request the list so that we can give it to our members,” Maigandi said.

He also said the association was pressing for allocation of the products to independent marketers from the refinery.

Tinubu is a beacon of rule of law – Bala Mohammed.

Tinubu is a beacon of rule of law – Bala Mohammed.

Bauchi state governor, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has described President Bola Tinubu as a true federalist and advocate of the rule of law.

The governor highlighted that, under the Tinubu’s led administration, the judiciary has flourished independently, free from external influence.

This is coming on the heels of the Supreme Court judgment which upheld his election as the governor of Bauchi state.

The Nation reports in a judgment delivered on Friday, January 12, Justice Ibrahim Saulawa who read the lead judgment, dismissed the appeal filed by Sadique Abubakar of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for lacking in merit.

Addressing mammoth crowd who trooped to the Government House’s house on Saturday to celebrate with him, the governor said: “I’m grateful to the Nigeria judiciary. I’m going to President Tinubu for allowing the rule of law to persist, irrespective of the lies. No amount of mischief will bring us down”

“President Tinubu is a beacon of the rule of law worthy of emulation by all.”

According to him, the outcome of the court case right from the tribunal up to the Supreme Court has made him to have more confidence in the judiciary.