Olatunbosun Speaks, Lists All Roads Projects, and Developments.

Olatunbosun Speaks, Lists All Roads Projects, and Developments.

Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun has described the massive ongoing road projects in the State as a meticulous strategy to ease road congestion, raise productivity especially in the agricultural sector and lowers production costs thus boosting the economy.

Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun who made this assertion in Ado Ekiti, said that the State Government would therefore leave no stone unturned towards ensuring the successful completion of the projects.

Olatunbosun added that the road projects would tactically boost commerce and security as well as to attract investments, development and generally make life easier for the people.

He stressed that “the economic benefits are many, the good it serves for security is clear, and the human convenience is incalculable. The focus is to develop good road networks so that people, goods, and services could move quickly and efficiently in and around the State.

The Commissioner said that the recent meeting that Governor Biodun Oyebanji had with contractors handling the projects was to ensure compliance with standards and deadlines, stressing the administration zero tolerance for shoddy jobs and tardiness.

The Commissioner added that “it is important because we want to be sure of the quality of the services we are providing for the people. So, we are going to hold the contractors strictly accountable for that and in certifying their jobs, we will not accept anything short of the standards that we have set in our documents, so we must emphasize that and we insist on that.”

Urging the contractors to abide by Governor Oyebanji’s advice, Olatunbosun stressed the importance of taking advantage of the dry season to fast track work on their respective projects, adding that the lack of rain in the season provides ample opportunity for contractors to speed up construction work.

Assuring that the State Government would ensure proper and continuous monitoring of the projects to guarantee timely and good quality delivery, Olatunbosun said that Governor Oyebanji would also continue to visit the project sites from time to time, adding that the Governor would, in fact, soon embark on another round of project inspection in order to ascertain the level of compliance.

He similarly emphasized the importance of collective responsibility and stressed the need for all stakeholders, particularly, community leaders to take ownership of the various projects in their areas, in order to ensure timely and quality delivery.

The Government spokesman listed ongoing road projects in the State to include, Atlas- Ajebandele- Deeper Life- Alasia- Omisanjana Road; Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki Road; Ikere – Igbara Odo Road; Ijigbo- Ajilosun Flyover Bridge; Ado- Ekiti City Ring Road (Phase 1); Ikere-Ilawe Road; and Agric Olope- Moferere- Odo Ado Road.

Others are Ikole-Ara- Isinbode Road; Ado- Ilawe Road; Ikere- Ise- Emure Road; Ilawe- Erijiyan Road; Igede- Ilawe Road; GRA 3rd Extension Road; Dualisation of GRA 3rd Extension Road; Igbara Odo- Ikogosi Road; Hospital Management Board Road; and Itapa- Ijelu Road and additional works on River Ele Bridge.

Governor Oyebanji's Respect for Tradition: Pays Courtesy Visit to Olojudo of Ido Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji's Respect for Tradition: Pays Courtesy Visit to Olojudo of Ido Ekiti.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a commendable demonstration of profound respect for the traditional institution, Governor Biodun Oyebanji visited the palace of the Olojudo of Ido Ekiti and Chairman, Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Oba Ilori Faboro on Sunday afternoon, January 21, 2024.

The BAO administration consistently highlights the importance of traditional rulers, acknowledging their pivotal role in Ekiti State's cultural and developmental fabric. This emphasis on upholding the dignity and relevance of the traditional institution has cultivated a deep bond of love, admiration, and cooperation between the government and the royal fathers.

Governor Oyebanji's visit serves as a testament to his commitment to maintaining harmonious relationships with traditional rulers, contributing significantly to the prevailing atmosphere of peace, progress, and development within the state. The BAO administration's approach underscores the belief that respecting and collaborating with the traditional institution is integral to achieving the collective goals of Ekiti State.

Gov Oyebanji's Unifying Sunday: Attends Service at CAC Rejoice Arena, Extends Condolences to Chief Kolawole's Family.

Gov Oyebanji's Unifying Sunday: Attends Service at CAC Rejoice Arena, Extends Condolences to Chief Kolawole's Family.              By Olamide Akinwumi J.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji took a noteworthy step towards fostering unity and inclusivity as he actively participated in a Sunday service at CAC Rejoice Arena, along Afao Road, Ado Ekiti, on the 21st of January 2024. Departing from his usual attendance at the Government House Chapel, the Governor demonstrated his commitment to connecting with various congregations across the state.

During the service, Governor Oyebanji addressed the congregation, expressing solidarity with the churchgoers and seeking their prayers. The church reciprocated with heartfelt prayers for the Governor, marking a significant initiative in Mr. Governor’s plan to attend Sunday services across diverse churches in Ekiti State. This approach underscores his belief in the unifying power of collective worship.

In another engagement on the same day, Governor Oyebanji paid a condolence visit to the residence of Chief Lawrence Kolawole in Otun. Chief Kolawole, a frontline APC leader and member of the APC Elders forum, recently lost his wife. The Governor conveyed sympathies on behalf of the Government and the people of Ekiti State, extending prayers for strength and fortitude to Chief Kolawole and his family during this challenging period.

Governor Oyebanji's actions stand as a testament to his dedication to fostering unity, transcending political affiliations and religious denominations. As he extends condolences and actively participates in diverse community events, the Governor remains steadfast in his commitment to a leadership style that embraces and supports the diverse facets of the Ekiti State populace.

Aiyedatiwa Hails Engineer's Contributions To Nation-building.

Aiyedatiwa Hails Engineer's Contributions To Nation-building.

....As NSE Installs First Female President.

Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa, at the weekend hailed the historic emergence of Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala as the first female President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, NSE.

The Governor made the remark as the Guest Speaker at the inauguration ceremony of Engr. Oguntala as the 34th President of the NSE at the International Conference Centre in Abuja on Saturday. 

He described Oguntala as a distinguished woman of substance, saying that her emergence "is a testimony to that fact that our great country is again recognising the invaluable contributions of the female gender and the need to encourage and support the emergence of women in leadership roles and in healthy competitive elections. This indeed is a very rare feat that needs to be recognized as well as celebrated."

The Governor added: "Engr. Mrs. Oguntala is known to be a woman of sterling qualities and substantial substance, and coupled with her vast experience, knowledge and exposure, I have no doubt that this woman of substance would move the umbrella body to great heights. Kudos to you madam for this rare feat, and you make us proud in Ondo State."

While commending engineers for the crucial roles they play in the development of any society, the Governor stressed that "a major part of the responsibilities of building the nation of our dream lies mainly upon the shoulders of engineers and technologists."

"However, I must challenge you that it behoves on the engineers and technologists to complement the efforts of government by formulating and producing state-of-the-art solutions to the hydra-headed developmental challenges of our great nation. 

"We must begin to build roads, bridges and other infrastructure that will stand the test of time, and even outlive their design-life. We must begin to look at and introduce technology that will conserve energy and preserve our environment that is already being degraded from the dangerous gaseous emissions from gasoline and diesel engines of our automobiles and industries. The way to go, therefore, is to introduce electronic solutions, work smartly and to green energy."

Mrs. Oguntala, speaking shortly after her investiture, urged the Federal Government to implement fully the presidential order 5 which promotes the consumption of made-in-Nigeria goods and services. 

She called on the government to amongst other things “implement the GL 09 entry point for engineers in some of the states that are yet to effect the enhanced entry point for engineers in civil service. Formulate a policy to compel employers of labour to pay commensurate welfare packages/hazard allowances for engineers.

“Implement Executive Order 5 with sincerity of purpose. Promote Nigerian-made goods and services. Have the Presidency invite the NSE to nominate engineers for inclusion in the newly formed “Policy Coordination, Evaluation, Monitoring, and Delivery Unit” as announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his 2024 New Year broadcast. We praise the President for this initiative.

“Encourage entrepreneurship by providing incentives and support for engineers in small businesses and startups in the extractive industry. Promote STEM education to encourage more students to pursue engineering careers and contribute to nation-building."

Earlier in his Keynote Address, Senator President Godswill Akpabio praised the society for electing its first first female president. 

Represented by Deputy Senate President, Barau Jubrin, Akpabio said: “Oguntala’s appointment serves as a powerful testament to the fact that talent, dedication, and expertise know no gender boundaries. It is a clear indication that the Nigerian Society of Engineers recognizes and values the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the future of engineering."

NANS Announces Safe Release of Abducted Lecturer, Dr. MS Argungu.

NANS Announces Safe Release of Abducted Lecturer, Dr. MS Argungu.

In a significant update from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the office of the National Director of Research and Innovation, Comr Sadiq SK Zango, joyfully confirms the safe release of Dr. MS Argungu, the abducted lecturer from Kebbi State University of Science and Technology Aliero.

Dr. MS Argungu, who was kidnapped in Aliero town on 14th January 2024, has been successfully reunited with his family after days of intensive efforts and collaborative work with relevant authorities.

NANS extends sincere gratitude to the security agencies, the university management, and all stakeholders involved in ensuring the safe return of Dr. MS Argungu. This positive outcome underscores the effectiveness of collective efforts in addressing security challenges within our academic institutions.

The association expresses unwavering support for Dr. MS Argungu, his family, colleagues, and the entire academic community during this recovery period. NANS strongly condemns acts of violence against educators and emphasizes the urgent need for heightened security measures to safeguard our academic institutions.

Comr Sadiq SK Zango, the NANS National Director of Research and Innovation, reaffirms the commitment to advocating for the safety and well-being of our academic community. The association vows to continue collaborating with relevant authorities to address security concerns and create a conducive environment for learning and research.

Oyebanji meets contractors, reviews progress, urges compliance with quality, deadline.

Oyebanji meets contractors, reviews progress, urges compliance with quality, deadline. 

Ekitit State Governor, Mr Biodun  Oyebanji on Friday met with all contractors handling different road projects in the State, directing  them to speed up work on their respective projects within the next two months, before the advent of the rainy season. 

The Governor who insisted that his administration would not owe any of them, said payment would be made once the supervisory ministry gives approval for payment, based on satisfactory work. 

Stating that the state government intends to embark on many projects this year, the Governor said only contractors that deliver quality jobs and timely too, would be considered for other engagements. 

The Governor, together with the  the Commissioner for Works, Mr Sola Adebayo and the ministry’s engineers as well as the Special Adviser, office of Project Monitoring, Hon Femi Ajayi and other top officials undertook critical  appraisals of all the projects as well as the  performances of the contractors at the meeting. 

“It is important we take advantage of the two to three months we have before the rainy season sets in  to complete many of the projects”, Governor Oyebanji told the contractors who also  presented updates on their projects. 

The contractors and contracting firms at the meeting include China Civii Engineering Company (CCECC), Immobiliare Construction Company, STEP Development Limited, Craneburg Construction, and Peculiar Ultimate Concerns Limited.

Others are: Kouris Construction Nigeria Limited, Dromo International Limited, Leadgate Global Construction Company Limited, RUDY Construction Nigeria Limited, Dortmund and Co Limited, and Delko Hildings Nigeria Limited. 

Projects that were appraised included: Atlas- Ajebandele- Deeper Life- Alasia- Omisanjana Road; Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki Road; Ikere - Igbara Odo Road; Ijigbo- Ajilosun Flyover Bridge; Ado- Ekiti City Ring Road (Phase 1); Ikere-Ilawe Road; and Agric Olope- Moferere- Odo Ado Road. 

Others are Ikole-Ara- Isinbode Road; Ado- Ilawe Road; Ikere- Ise- Emure Road; Ilawe- Erijiyan Road; Igede- Ilawe Road; GRA 3rd Extension Road; Dualisation of GRA 3rd Extension Road; Igbara Odo- Ikogosi Road; Hospitak Management Board Road; and Itapa- Ijelu Road and additional works on River Ele Bridge. 

The Governor promised to do an on-  the- spot assessment of all the projects within the next two weeks to further ascertain the  level of compliance.

The Governor also urged the citizens of the state, especially community leaders to take ownership of the various projects in their areas, in order to ensure timely and quality delivery.

AIYETORO: Ondo Moves To Find Lasting Solution To Ocean Surge.

AIYETORO: Ondo Moves To Find Lasting Solution To Ocean Surge.

.....EXCO approves pilot project for solar-powered streetlights for major cities.

.....Govt to engage stakeholders over LG caretaker committees.

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday presided over the State Executive Council meeting, during which critical issues of development were discussed and a wide range of actions approved for implementation.

Top among those is the approval of an action plan on finding lasting and sustainable solution to the incessant ocean surge in Aiyetoro community in Ilaje local government area of the State. 

This was revealed at a press briefing after the EXCO meeting by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju. 

While addressing Government House correspondents, Olateju disclosed that the Governor expressed deep concern over the challenges faced by the community over several years, santioning government's commitment to finding lasting solutions to the sea-related problems. 

The government, she assured, is actively working towards implementing measures that will not only mitigate the immediate impacts but also provide a permanent and sustainable solution in order to safeguard the affected coastal areas.

Also, the Executive Council approved the immediate assumption of office by the newly appointed Oloje of Igasi in Akoko North West local government and the Ibini/Lebú of Ojuala in Ese-odo local government. Additionally, two warrant chiefs were appointed to facilitate the selection of a new Olusupare of Supare Akoko, and a new Arogbo of Akotogbo was also approved.

The State government has also taken a significant step towards fostering economic development by approving the State Action Plan on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER) programs. This includes an initiative to illuminate Akure and major cities in the state through a solar-powered project. The pilot project, having received Council's approval, is set to commence immediately with sample installations underway at the front of Government House, Alagbaka, Akure.

On the issue of cleanness in the state, the Commissioner for Environment, Sunday Akinwalire, highlighted progress in clearing refuse in the metropolis and the weeding of curbs, as well as plans to improve overall sanitation standards.

Also, the State Commissioner for Justice, Sir Charles Titiloye, said the government, acknowledging pending court cases initiated by opposition parties regarding the appointment of careraker committees for Local Government councils and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), is committed to resolving these issues amicably through constructive dialogue with the relevant stakeholders.

In a somber note, the Council was briefed on the plans for the burial of the late former governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.