No plan to hike fuel price — NNPCL.

No plan to hike fuel price — NNPCL.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited on Thursday said it was not planning to increase the cost of Premium Motor Spirit, known as petrol.

The NNPCL in a statement by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, urged Nigerians against panic buying of petrol.

The statement read, “NNPC Ltd. urges Nigerians to disregard unfounded rumours and assures them that there are no plans for an upward review of the PMS price.

“Motorists nationwide are advised against engaging in panic buying, as there is presently ample availability of PMS across the country.”

It was reported that oil marketers expressed fears that there might be a scarcity of petrol if the NNPCL fails to make the product available to depot owners and other dealers.

They said the long queues being experienced in filling stations and some parts of Ogun State might eventually spread to other parts of the nation should the NNPCL fail to sell enough petrol to distributors.

Long queues have since Monday resurfaced in different filling stations in Lagos State, causing traffic gridlock in Ikeja and other areas, as residents feared there might be a fresh scarcity of petrol.

But speaking to one of our correspondents on Tuesday morning, Soneye had dismissed insinuations of fresh fuel scarcity.

Soneye disclosed that NNPCL did not have supply issues, adding that its products remained readily available.

He added that the distribution issue in some areas had been resolved.

“We are pleased to confirm that there are no supply issues and our products remain readily available.

“The recent tightness experienced in certain areas was due to a brief distribution issue in Lagos, which has since been resolved,” Soneye told our correspondent.

Oyo disburses additional N340m to farmers.

Oyo disburses additional N340m to farmers.

The Oyo State Government, on Thursday, announced that it would commence disbursement of N340.270 million to eligible crop farmers across the seven zones of the state from Friday, February 9, 2024.

This is in addition to a sum of N416.850 million recently disbursed to 1,407 farmers across the state in the third batch of the Sustainable Action For Economic Recovery initiative programme.

The state government had provided a sum of N1 billion under the Sustainable Action For Economic Recovery initiative of the government to support farmers to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal by the Federal Government.

The Chairman of Agric Credit Corporation of Oyo State, Taofeek Akeugbagold, who addressed newsmen at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, the state capital, said the project has been non-partisan as it was available for the generality of legitimate farmers and would-be farmers in the state including the youths that were trained by the government under the YEAP programme.

Akeugbagold gave a breakdown of how funds were disbursed with reference to the categorization of the state into seven major zones.

“In Ibadan Zone One which is supervised by the Bank of Agriculture, Ibadan, a total number 547 beneficiaries have been disbursed with a sum of N156.75O million, while Ibadan Zone two undertaken by Onibuore Microfinance Bank has disbursed the sum of N118.950 million to 401 beneficiaries.

“However, in Oyo Zone undertaken by the Bank of Agriculture, Oyo, a total number of 171 beneficiaries have collected the sum of N50,700 million, while Ogbomoso Zone handled by Randalpha Microfinance Bank disbursed the sum of N29.250 million to 84 beneficiaries.

“Also, Oke Ogun Zone One handled by Ifedapo Microfinance Bank, Saki, disbursed a total sum of N26.230m to 79 beneficiaries, while Oke Ogun Zone Two supervised by Bank of Agriculture, Iseyin disbursed the sum of N30.800 million to 110 beneficiaries and Ibarapa Zone undertaken by Igboora Microfinance Bank disbursed the sum of N4.050m to 15 beneficiaries. This makes the total sum of N416.85O million disbursed to 1,407 farmers.” He explained.

Akeugbagold further gave the breakdown of how funds for the 4th batch would be disbursed across the various zones as of tomorrow, Friday, February 9, 2024, as follows:

“Ibadan one to be undertaken by Bank of Agriculture, Ibadan. N75.950 million for 269 beneficiaries. Ibadan two represented by Onibuore Microfinance Bank, N132.250 million for 474 beneficiaries.

“In Oyo, Bank of Agriculture, Oyo, N24.50 million for 87 beneficiaries. Oke-Ogun one, Ifedapo Beneficiaries Microfinance, N26.270 million for 93 beneficiaries. Oke-Ogun two, Bank of Agriculture, Iseyin, N13.450 million for 53 beneficiaries. Ogbomoso, Randalpha Microfinance Bank, N44.200 million for 159 beneficiaries. Ibarapa, lgboora Microfinance Bank, N23.650 million for 92 beneficiaries.”

The chairman, however, assured that real farmers who missed out on all the batches that have been previously considered would be taken care of once the payment came forth.

He also implored fresh graduates who were interested in agricultural practices to approach the corporation to access funds.

Akeugbagold also admonished all the beneficiaries to complement the government’s efforts by being faithful to the funds obtained and reciprocating the kind gesture of the government by paying back to enable others to benefit from it.

Earlier, the General Manager of the Corporation, Ogunniran Emmanuel commended the State Governor, Seyi Makinde for his efforts at cushioning the effects of the economic hardship occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government.

EKSG Distributes 10,000 Bag's Of Maize To Livestock Farmers.

EKSG Distributes 10,000 Bag's Of Maize To Livestock Farmers. 

Ekiti State Government on Thursday distributed 10,000 50kg bags of maize to livestock farmers across the State.

Speaking while distributing the grains to the benefiting Farmers associations; the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade explained that the palliative measure, the third of its kind by the government, is primarily targeted at boosting the production of livestock farmers.

Boluwade said that Government’s gesture was in recognition of the need to rejuvenate Livestock farms with the focus on food security, creation of employment opportunities and production of protein amongst others.

He noted that “free maize grains distribution to poultry farmers in the State would go a long way in alleviating the problem of high cost of poultry feeds and availability of maize input in the poultry business. A lot of poultry farms were winding down due to the burden of high cost of feed leading to serious concern on food security, production of protein and job security amongst others. 

“Governor Biodun Oyebanji approved the distribution of the grains to revitalize livestock production to boost food security, save jobs and help sustain production of protein”.

The Commissioner who also doubles as the Chairman of the State Special Committee on palliatives, warned against diversion of the grains, stressing that selling or any other form of diversion of the grains would be inimical to the purpose of the scheme. 

He said that the bags have been stamped “Not to be Sold” stressing anybody caught attempting to sell it would be sanctioned.

In his remarks, the State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun described the intervention as strategic, adding that it was part of Government’s effort to make farming attractive particularly to the youths and help farmers thrive.

Reiterating the commitment of the Biodun Oyebanji administration to the development of the State and the general wellbeing of its residents, Olatunbosun assured that rejuvenation of agriculture in the State is well planned as encapsulated in the Agriculture and Rural development pillar of the administration and would be judiciously implemented.

He solicited the continued support of all stakeholders for efforts to make life more meaningful for all strata of the society, stressing the need to take advantage of opportunity provided by Government to improve their lot as well as using government’s largess judiciously to achieve the desired impact.

In his response, the Chairman, Poultry Association of Nigeria, Mr. Oluwasetemi Alonge expressed gratitude to the state government for the gesture, describing it as timely as inflation had eroded the working capital of the farmers which led to the almost collapse of their businesses.

Mr. Alonge noted that maize makes up about 70% of feed for their livestock, adding that the free distribution would therefore effectively reduce the burden of cost and improve their profit. 

Also responding, the Chairman of the State Chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Adebola Adeniran pledged on behalf of all beneficiaries to make judicious use of the free grains.

He noted that the high cost of inputs have made many farmers quit the business, adding that the gesture would go a long way in sustaining people in the Livestock business.

 

The 10,000 bags of maize were distributed through various associations to poultry, piggery, goats and fishery farmers amongst others.

Ekiti receives deployment of military personnel to strengthen security.

Ekiti receives deployment of military personnel to strengthen security.

As part of efforts to strengthen security across the nooks and crannies of Ekiti State, the first deployment of Army personnel, by the Nigerian Army headquarters, arrived Ado- Ekiti, the state capital on  Thursday. 

The military personnel arrived Ado- Ekiti around 9’ o clock  in the morning and converged on Fajuyi Pavillion, where they had a parade before departing to different locations for the commencement of their operations. 

The troop was received by Brig General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), Special Adviser on security matters to Governor Biodun Oyebanji. He said the  deployment of military personnel followed series of deliberations between the Governor and Service Chiefs in Abuja, prompted by recent violent incidents in the state, including the gruesome killing of two monarchs and the abduction of some school children and their teachers. 

Gen. Ogundana, who emphasized the state's firm stance against criminal tendencies and the determination of the state government to ensure that the forests being used as hideout for criminal activities were combed and free the state of all criminal infiltrators, added that the state would leave no stone unturned in the bid to preserve lives and properties of citizens.

While urging residents to maintain calm and carry on with their daily activities without fear but, he urged them to promptly report any suspicious activities to law enforcement agencies. 

Justifying Governor Oyebanji’s multifaceted approach to combating criminality, Gen Ogundana said  government would continue to safeguard the lives and properties of Ekiti State citizens by all possible means, even while working hard to bring all perpetrators of the heinous crimes to book. 

Welcoming the soldiers to the State, Hen Ogundana assured  them of the state government's comprehensive preparation to support their mission and make their stay in the state worthwhile.

Briefing Journalists shortly after their parade, the Commander of the troop, Brig. Gen, John Lar, said the men and officers were on special mission to comb the various hideouts of criminals and bandits in their various hiding places in the forests.

Brig. Gen. Lar affirmed that the activities of the military in the state would commence immediately as he sought cooperation of residents during the military exercise in the state to enable them achieve the desired success.

He commended the Chief of Army staff, Lt. General Taoreed Lagbaja,  for deploying additional troops to support and strengthen military activities in the state, adding that they were set to expose hideouts of all bandits and criminals in the state.

While stressing that the military would work all days and nights to clear the forests of infiltrators, Brig. Gen. Lar, disclosed that the military personnel would be swiftly deployed to their designated positions, emphasizing on heightened border surveillance to dismantle criminal networks operating within the forests.

Oyebanji Approves Release Of N200M As Car/Housing Loan For Primary School Teachers.

Oyebanji Approves Release Of N200M As Car/Housing Loan For Primary School Teachers.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the release of the sum N200 million for car and housing loan to primary school teachers in the state.

This is in fulfilment of the Governor’s pledge to ensure that teachers in public primary schools in the state start enjoying some benefits being enjoyed by their counterparts teaching in secondary schools.

The first tranche of N50 million has been remitted into the pool for the month of January, in line with the Governor’s directive.

The car and housing loans are revolving in nature. The pool of fund is usually replenished as beneficiaries fulfil their monthly repayment obligations.   

Governor Oyebanji had, in a meeting with Education Secretaries last month, promised to review the policy that had hitherto discriminated against primary school teachers in the disbursement of car and housing loans. This is with a view to making available funds to take care of car and housing loans to primary school teachers in the state as part of his administration’s plan to motivate them for excellent service delivery.

The new loan regime for primary school teachers is in line with human capital development policy of the administration. It also speaks to the Governor’s avowed commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of workers in the state, as well as ensuring that workers get all that they are entitled to in line with the shared prosperity agenda.

Hon Gbenga Oluwatuyi Collaborates with Peace Corps to Enhance Security in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG.

Hon Gbenga Oluwatuyi Collaborates with Peace Corps to Enhance Security in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG.

To bolster security measures in the Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon Gbenga Oluwatuyi, the Executive Chairman, convened a meeting with the Peace Corps on the 6th Tuesday of February. The gathering took place at the local government headquarters in Igede-Ekiti.

The meeting aimed to foster collaboration between the local government authority and the Peace Corps in addressing security challenges within the community. Executive Chairman Gbenga Oluwatuyi emphasized the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in the area.

During the discussions, strategies were deliberated upon to strengthen security operations, including patrols, community engagement initiatives, and intelligence gathering efforts. The Executive Chairman reiterated his commitment to working closely with the Peace Corps to maintain peace and order in the local government area.

The Peace Corps representatives expressed their readiness to support the efforts of the local government authority in enhancing security. They highlighted the importance of synergy between security agencies and community stakeholders in combating crime and maintaining law and order.

The collaboration between Executive Chairman Gbenga Oluwatuyi and the Peace Corps signifies a proactive approach to addressing security concerns in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both parties, the aim is to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both sides to work together towards achieving the shared goal of enhancing security and promoting peace in the local government area. The collaborative efforts underscore the importance of collective action in addressing security challenges and fostering community resilience.

Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi Engages Vigilante Group in Meeting for Enhanced Security Measures.

Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi Engages Vigilante Group in Meeting for Enhanced Security Measures.

Honorable Gbenga Oluwatuyi, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, convened a crucial meeting on the 6th Tuesday of February with the local vigilante group. The gathering aimed to discuss and implement enhanced security measures within the local government area.

The meeting, chaired by Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi, underscored the importance of collaboration between local authorities and community-based security organizations in ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. Addressing the vigilante group members, the Executive Chairman expressed his commitment to fostering a safer environment and combating crime effectively.

During the deliberations, various strategies were explored to bolster the capacity and effectiveness of the vigilante group in addressing security challenges within the locality. Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi emphasized the need for proactive measures and intelligence-sharing mechanisms to prevent and respond to security threats promptly.

The Executive Chairman commended the vigilante group for their dedication and selfless service in safeguarding the community. He assured them of the local government's support and cooperation in providing necessary resources and training to enhance their capabilities.

In addition to discussing security matters, the meeting served as a platform for open dialogue and feedback exchange between the local government leadership and the vigilante group. Issues pertaining to community policing, crime prevention initiatives, and community engagement were thoroughly discussed, with a focus on fostering stronger ties between the vigilante group and local residents.

The engagement with the vigilante group reflects Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi's proactive approach to addressing security concerns and promoting community-based solutions. By actively involving grassroots organizations in the decision-making process, the local government aims to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility among community members towards maintaining law and order.

As the meeting concluded, Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi reiterated his commitment to working hand-in-hand with the vigilante group and other stakeholders to ensure a safe and secure environment for all residents of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area. The collaborative efforts between the local government and the vigilante group are poised to yield positive outcomes in enhancing security and promoting peace and tranquility within the community.