Super Eagles Soar High with Victory Over Ivory Coast in AFCON 2023 Group A Clash.

Super Eagles Soar High with Victory Over Ivory Coast in AFCON 2023 Group A Clash.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a highly anticipated encounter on Matchday 2 of the AFCON 2023 Group A, Nigeria's Super Eagles secured a remarkable 1-0 victory against Ivory Coast. The lone goal came from the penalty spot, expertly converted by William Troost-Ekong in the 55th minute.

The Eagles displayed a thrilling combination of power and precision, conquering the Elephants on their home turf. The victory propels Nigeria into a strong position in Group A, showcasing their determination to make a significant impact in the tournament.

With this win, Nigeria joins Equatorial Guinea at the top of the Group A standings, both accumulating 4 points. Equatorial Guinea holds a superior goal difference, securing the top spot with a +2 goal difference, while Nigeria follows closely with a +1 goal difference.

Ivory Coast, despite a spirited effort, finds themselves in the third position with 3 points, having scored one goal and conceding one. Guinea-Bissau, yet to secure a point in the tournament, holds the fourth spot with a goal difference of -4.

The AFCON 2023 Group A is now poised for an intense battle in the upcoming matchdays as teams strive to secure a spot in the knockout stages. Nigeria's Super Eagles, with their recent triumph, have set a strong foundation for their campaign in the tournament.

Football enthusiasts eagerly await further clashes in Group A, as the teams vie for supremacy and aim to advance to the latter stages of the prestigious AFCON 2023.

Ekiti Govt To Set Up Committee Of Inquiry On Iworoko Obaship Crisis.

Ekiti Govt To Set Up Committee Of Inquiry On Iworoko Obaship Crisis.

Ekiti State Government has approved the establishment of a Committee of Inquiry to investigate the issue of Obaship succession in Iworoko Ekiti.

Giving a summary of the decisions of the State Executive Council from its meeting on Wednesday, the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, in a statement made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti, recalled that the succession struggle for throne of Alaworoko of Iworoko Ekiti followed the demise of Oba Michael Olufemi Aladejana on 16th of January, 2019.

Olatunbosun recalled that the immediate past Deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi referred the contentious issues to the Irepodun/ Ifelodun Local Government Traditional Council, the home Local Government of the Iworoko community for inquiry and recommendations after receiving numerous petitions and counter petitions on the issue.

The Commissioner stated that though the Local Government Traditional Council reportedly conducted an extensive investigation and consultation and subsequently submitted a comprehensive report to assist the State Government resolve the differences in the family over the Obaship tussle, an Ekiti State High Court however nullified the report following a challenge by one of the feuding parties at the High Court on the ground that such Inquiry Committee could only be constituted by the Executive Council and not the Deputy Governor.

He assured that the Government remains impartial and committed to entrenching peace and development in all communities in the State.

Olatunbosun therefore urged all stakeholders in the imbroglio to support efforts of Government at engraining peace and resolving the succession issue.

Tinubu’s Aide, Asefon Sunday Unveils Nigerian Students Flag, Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

Tinubu’s Aide, Asefon Sunday Unveils Nigerian Students Flag, Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

Senior Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on students engagements, Hon. Comrade Asefon Sunday Dayo has unveiled Nigerian students flag and renewed hope students agenda.

In a press conference held by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, the unveiling of the Nigerian Students Flag and the Renewed Hope Students Agenda took center stage. The Senior Special Assistant addressed the media, emphasizing the significance of these initiatives for the student community. During the conference, details about the purpose and symbolism behind the Nigerian Students Flag were presented, underscoring a renewed commitment to students' aspirations and welfare. 

Text Of Press Conference By The

Senior Special Assistant To The President On Student Engagement On The Unveiling Of Nigerian Students Flag And The Renewed Hope Students Agenda:

The Honourable Minister, Students Leaders, Gentlemen of the Press, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I welcome you all to the official unveiling of the Nigerian Students Flags and the Renewed Hope Students Agenda.

I want to appreciate our Father, compassionate Leader and educational friendly President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his uncommon support to the Nigerian Students through his actions which signing the Students loan Act, Release of Tertiary institutions Intervention Fund, removal of Tertiary institutions from IPPS, Reversal of 40 percent, release of CNG Buses to Tertiary institutions among other initiatives.

Vision Statement:

Aspires to be a leading platform for promoting student engagement, empowering students leadership, and fostering a conducive learning environment that nurtures future leaders and contributes to National Development.

Mission Statement:

To serve as a bridge for students engagement in governance, policy formulation, and implementation to foster students leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, critical thinking, and social cohesion thereby prioritizing the needs and rights of students.

THE NIGERIAN STUDENTS RENEWED HOPE PROGRAM AGENDA.

1. Nigerian Student Leaders Regional Dialogue.

BRIEF: Identification and discussion of student challenges on campus, Sensitization on Student Loan scheme, Social Investment and Empowerment Programs of FG.

 

2. Annual International Students’ Day Celebration, PBAT National Student Leaders Submit and Unveiling of Renewed Hope Campus Ambassadors.

BRIEF; Annual international students’ celebration, National Student Union leaders’ summit to discuss progress and innovation in education sector as well as role of students as critical stakeholders in the sector.

3. Annual All Nigerian Tertiary Institutions Students Affairs Conference-ANTISAC.

BRIEF: A conference of all Dean of Students affairs of Tertiary institutions in Nigeria under a theme: effective management of student’s affairs to guarantee uninterrupted academic calendar.

4. Local and foreign Engagement of Student bodies/Inauguration of National Student Management Committee.

BRIEF; A. Diaspora Student Leaders Retreat.

B. Nigeria Student Leaders Conferences In UK, Canada and Europe in collaboration with Nigeria in Diaspora Commission NiDCOM.

5. Renewed Hope Local and Foreign Digital skills & Training Scholarship Scheme.

BRIEF; Sponsorship of best graduating students in ICT related courses in partnership with local and foreign Tech. Institutions in collaboration with NITDA, NCC, MIN of Communication & Digital Economy, State Government, Min of Sci. And Tech, and other relevant agencies.

6. Quarterly Engagement of past and current Student leaders to Dissect Social investment and Empowerment Programs of FG.

BRIEF; Review Federal Government Social Investment policies and Empowerment programs among the populace (feedback mechanisms) in collaboration with SEMDAN, Min of Trade & Investment, Min of Humanitarian and poverty Alleviation, NITDA, Min of Labour and others.

7. Partnership with Embassies and International Development organizations.

BRIEF: To attract value addition to Nigeria student community such as scholarship and exchange program.

8. Stakeholders Dialogue on Safe School project.

BRIEF; This in partnership with DSS, NSCDC, NPF, NIA, Military and other security agency to enhance security around schools and campuses.

9. Renewed Hope Academic Excellence Reward Scheme.

BRIEF: A befitting celebration and rewarding prize for overall best graduate from every Tertiary institution visa viz arrangements of automatic absorption into academic by school Authority and other MDAs.

10. Industrial Attachment and Internship placement scheme.

BRIEF; A scheme to accelerate perfect placement and mandatory absorption of IT students in various field in collaboration with CAC and MDAs.

11. National Student competition/Regional symposium on Reviving Reading Culture and use of library.

BRIEF: Readership Campaign in secondary school in collaboration with UBEC, JAMB and other Private sector players/NGO.

12. National and Regional Campaign against social vices among students on campus.

BRIEF; launching of campaign and sensitization on Drug Abuse, indecent dressing, Cyber Crime and others in collaboration with EFCC, ICPC, NDLEA, NOA, Security Agencies, Education Agencies and Departments.

13. Nigerian Students in Agriculture Program.

BRIEF; Student Farm Project in collaboration with Min of Agriculture, Nirsal, BOI, AfDB, DBN and other relevant MDAs.

14. Nigerian Students Climate Action Project.

BRIEF; A concerted student engagement in climate change action and activities in collaboration with SDG and other Local and foreign bodies.

15. Partnership and Collaboration with Private Sector for subsidized Products and Services.

BRIEF: A business negotiation with private sector, those offering student most patronized products and services for subsidized rate (Student Rate/Price) such as Telecom, NBC, Banks etc

With the above activities in place, We are convinced that the hope of Nigerian Students

will be re-invigorated in the administration of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

Thank you and God bless you all.

Oyebanji charges new LG bosses on accountability.

Oyebanji charges new LG bosses on accountability.

..…says I Won't touch LG Funds.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged newly inaugurated chairmen of councils in the state on the need to be accountable to the people even as he assured them that his administration would not divert nor touch allocations accruing to the local councils from the federation accounts.

 

The Governor also warned the Chairmen and other council officials against dropping his name to perpetrate fraud, saying whoever is caught in the web will face the full weight of the law.

In his determined action to stop pilfering of public funds in councils, Oyebanji cautioned against moving of public money into private accounts for direct labour projects, saying such act is tantamount to fraud and won't be tolerated under his leadership.  

Oyebanji stated these on Thursday, while flagging off a three-day retreat for the elected council chairmen and other top local government functionaries in Ekiti State, held at Adetiloye Hall, Ado Ekiti. 

Declaring open the retreat with the theme: “State and Local Government Strategic Planning and Implementation", the Governor assured that under no guise would he interfere with how the money appropriated for the councils are expended.

"Sometimes around December 2023, I learnt local government officials in each of the councils deducted N1m out of the money approved for Christmas celebration and claimed they wanted to give it to me. I didn't ask anybody to deduct any money for me. 

"This might be true and it might not be true . If it was true, I didn't get any money. Let me clear that I didn't ask anybody to bring any money to me. And I didn’t collect any money. Henceforth, when you hear something of this nature, quickly contact me. 

"Nobody should use my name for any fraudulent thing. I have made a covenant with God that such won't happen under me. I am not going to touch your money, but I won't allow you to spend it recklessly. Remember that humility in power is not a weakness, but a virtue".

Sharing his perspective on how an ideal local government system should be run, Oyebanji urged the Chairmen to be participatory, by consulting widely with all the communities to execute projects that would have direct impact on the masses.  

"Let me state here today that opportunities come with responsibilities. Those who elected you did that for a purpose. Your conduct will make the people form an opinion about our government. Your election is not an invitation for luxury, but for service. 

"The question you should ask yourselves is, how do I make a difference in the lives of the people? Ask yourselves, how will I be remembered after this office? Three years is short and will soon come to an end. Will people still welcome you home or ignore you, the choice is yours". 

Oyebanji appealed to the council bosses to undertake projects that are 21st century compliant and that are based on the current economic realities to be able to reduce poverty, unemployment and solve most challenges associated with the local communities. 

"What I have noticed is that, our people are stereotyped about Local Government system. This time, I don't expect you to be buying rechargable light that will be dead tomorrow or build markets that nobody will use. Nothing stops the LG from doing electricity for a town that has not enjoyed light for 10 years, because light is catalytic. 

"Nothing stops the LG from helping the farmers with seedlings, or provide tractorisation. Nothing stops you from empowering the traders. These are projects that resonate with the people. I closed my eyes to some things done under the last LG administration to avoid rancour , but for you, we are in the same boat together. I can hold you accountable for any of your actions".

Urging the new council helmsmen to be wary of their actions, Oyebanji reminded that "you are a product of the people's vote and your loyalty must be to the people. If your projects are popular among the people, the APC will be popular. After this retreat, go round the wards and collate what they want. It is the products that will form your Development Plans".

For accountability, transparency and probity, Oyebanji promised that his government will set up a Procurement Process and Office of Transformation and Service Delivery in all councils to monitor expenditure and performance.

The Governor appealed to the council chairmen not to adopt direct labour for all projects, urging them to patronise local contractors.

In his submission, the Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Hon. Folorunso Olabode, described the retreat as a strategic way of showing that the local government is strategic to the development plans of Ekiti State.

A Resource Person at the event, Senator Olubunmi Adetumbi, said the kernel of the retreat is to build a framework for effective partnership between the state and the local governments for operation devoid of division, so that the citizens could have value for their money.

Governor Oyebanji Again Urges New Council Leaders to Prioritize Local Content.

Governor Oyebanji Again Urges New Council Leaders to Prioritize Local Content.

.....Commends D.G. Bureau of Local Content, Ijidale on performance.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has again stressed the need for the newly sworn-in Local Government/LCDA Chairmen to demonstrate commitment to bolstering the state economy through patronage of local contractors and artisans.

Governor Oyebanji stated this during the flag-off ceremony for the three days retreat organized for the new LG/LCDA chairmen held at Adetiloye Hall in Ado-Ekiti.

The Governor, who commended D.G. Bureau of Local Content, Hon. Olalekan Ijidale, on the work done so far, directed all LGA/LCDA Chairmen to meet with the D.G. for an inventory of local contractors in their respective domains to engage them, stating that this is how Ekiti people could prosper. 

"Direct labour is very attractive because it gives rooms for sharp practices. Meanwhile, the local artisans are there, they have nothing to do and we continue telling them that they cant work, that they don't know what they are doing. When we don't allow them to practise and make mistakes how will they improve"?

He insisted that LGA/LCDA Chairmen should shun direct labour as it is a means of siphoning funds from their LG/LCDA. 

Mr Oyebanji further warned that whoever is caught engaging in the fraudulent practices would face the wrath of the law.

The Governor implored the newly sworn-in LGA/LCDA council bosses to help the state economy and its people by using local content to boost the economy.

Oyebanji inaugurates Trustees for ‘Olowe of Ise’ Arts Foundation, Museum.

Oyebanji inaugurates Trustees for ‘Olowe of Ise’ Arts Foundation, Museum.

….Yemisi Shyllon, ‘Nike Arts Gallery’, Ojudu, Odunlade, others on board.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has inaugurated a 13-member Board of Trustees of Olowe of Ise Arts Foundation to serve as the guiding force in the state’s bid to showcase her artistic heritage and position the state eminently on the global stage.

The foundation would also drive the state’s initiative for a modern museum where the works of the world renowned carver, the late Olowe of Ise, would be housed to promote tourism.

Prominent names on the board include Engr Yemisi Shyllon, proprietor of Shyllon Museum, the biggest private museum in Africa; Chief (Mrs) Nike Okundaye of Nike Arts Gallery; Renowned Artist and Curator, Prince Tunde Odunlade; Ms Abiola Adelana; Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi and Senator Babafemi Ojudu who is chairman of the BOT.

Others are, former Vice Chancellor, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Emeritus Prof Lawrence Kolawole; State Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akintunde Oyebode; Director General, Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre; Mr Ologbon Olowe, Dr Mike Adeoye and Architect Olayinka.

The works of the late Olowe of Ise who died in 1934 dot several major museums in America and European countries.

Governor Oyebanji while inaugurating the 13-member Board of Trustees at the EXCO Chamber, Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti, said the establishment of the Olowe Arts Foundation was not just an act of preservation of cultural heritage, but a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the heritage, celebrating artistic contribution and presenting an enduring legacy for future generations.

Recall that the Governor had last December announced plans by his administration to build a world class museum in Ise Ekiti, in his effort to preserve the legacies of the international renowned carver, popularly called Olowe of Ise Ekiti and to house his works which dot major museums in America and European countries.   

The Governor maintained that the Olowe of Ise Museum under the stewardship of the foundation would serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship artistry and cultural significant of the world renowned carver and a true custodian of Yoruba artistic excellent and honouring the unparalleled legacy of Nigerian and the world most distinguished artist, Olowe of Ise.

Governor Oyebanji explained that Olowe’s carving were testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence of the state and the Country, hence the importance of ensuring his contribution to nation building were properly acknowledge and celebrated.

Expressing his confidence in the competence, dedication and unwavering commitment of the Trustees, the Governor said their foresight and passion for cultural heritage will stared the foundation towards sustaining success and global recognition

He said : “The Olowe of Ise Museum under the stewardship of the foundation is poised to serve as a testament to the remarkable craftsmanship of history and cultural significance of the world renowned carver, a true custodian of Yoruba artistic excellence. Olowe of Ise mastered pieces reflect the depth of our cultural heritage, the finesse of Yoruba art and the ingenuity of our ancestors”

“The establishment of the museum is not simply an act of preservation, it is a steadfast commitment to safeguarding our heritage, celebrating artistic contributions and presenting a legacy of future generations. With the inauguration of the board of trustees, we are laying a foundation for this noble endeavour and calling upon you to serve as the guiding force in upholding the mission and vision of the Olowe of Ise Art Foundation”.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Director General, Bureau of Tourism Development, Ambassador Wale Ojo Lanre said the inauguration of the BOT shows the commitment of the Biodun Oyebanji administration to honouring the remarkable legacy of Olowe of Ise, who was an outstanding sculptor whose artistic brilliance has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the world.

He maintained that the significance of the event extends beyond the realm of arts and culture but also play a pivotal role in the advancement of the state as it brings economic growth, foster cross-cultural exchanges, and enhance the overall well-being of the community.

 

Responding on behalf of members of the trustees, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Babafemi Ojudu said the BOT would work assiduously to ensure that Olowe’s Museum is successful and become a conduit of cultural exchange with global communities.

 

While thanking the Governor for giving them the opportunity to serve the good people of Ekiti State, Senator Ojudu said members of the board would embrace roles with dedication and sense of responsibility by fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation and diversity to ensure that the museum becomes a center of artistic dialogue and cultural enrichment   

 

The Arinjale of Ise –Ekiti, HRM Oba Ayodele Ajayi said the event was a dream come true, adding that he never believed that the realisation of the dream of a museum and recognition for the renowned carver would come so soon. He expressed the appreciation of the people of Ise-Ekiti to the Governor for the decision to cite the museum in the town.

At the event were, Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the state executive council, the Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, HRM Oba Ayodele Ajayi and chiefs and representatives of Ewi-in-Council.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon Oluwatuyi Honors Armed Forces Remembrance Day with Wreath-Laying Ceremony.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon Oluwatuyi Honors Armed Forces Remembrance Day with Wreath-Laying Ceremony.

In a solemn ceremony, Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, led dignitaries to lay wreaths at the Cenotaph of an unknown Soldier at the Council Secretariat in Igede-Ekiti. The event, commemorating the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, showcased the administration's commitment to honoring departed compatriots and living veterans.

Expressing his congratulations to the living veterans, Hon. Oluwatuyi reiterated his administration's dedication to addressing their needs through meaningful engagement. He called on citizens to join hands with the government to support the families left behind by the courageous men who paid the ultimate price in defending the nation's territorial integrity.

The annual event, held on January 15th, demonstrated the administration's commitment to expressing gratitude to ex-military personnel who bravely served the nation. The ceremony began with the inspection of guards of honor by the Executive Chairman, followed by a parade by members of the Nigerian Legion. The wreath-laying was conducted by Hon. Oluwatuyi, Major Jide Ologunde (ret’d) of the Nigerian Legion, Alhaj Sanusi Ibrahim (District Police Officer), Mr. Agbedamiro (Nigeria Civil Defense Divisional Officer), and His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Boluwaji Adebiyi, Alare of Are-Ekiti.

In his address, Hon. Oluwatuyi urged the Nigerian Armed Forces to address the prevailing security challenges, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to combat insecurity and social vices plaguing the nation.

Major Jide Ologunde (rtr’d), Chairman of the Nigeria Legion in Irepodun/Ifelodun, expressed gratitude for the honor bestowed upon them and advocated for increased welfare packages for living veterans and the families of the departed.

Earlier in the day, Hon. Oluwatuyi swore in Dr. Sule Fatai Olatunji as the newly appointed Secretary to the Local Government. Dr. Sule, in his response, thanked the Executive Governor of Ekiti state and the people of Irepodun/Ifelodun for the opportunity to serve, pledging diligence in the discharge of his duties.

Prominent figures present at the occasion included Vice Chairman Engr. Remi Alade, Hon. Adunbi Joshua Ayodele (Leader of the Legislative Arm), Retired Chief Justice Justice Ayodeji Daramola, Mrs. Kofoworola Rotimi (Head of the Local Government Administration), and other political office holders and management staff.