Steel Development Minister lauds Nigerian Army as it flags off CNG operational vehicles.

Steel Development Minister lauds Nigerian Army as it  flags off CNG operational vehicles.

....says FG committed to transitioning to sustainable, cost-effective energy.

The Honourable Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu, has commended the Nigerian Army on the flag off of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles for its operation geared at promoting CNG as an alternative fuel for mobility within the Nigerian Army Fleet.

Prince Audu made this known while attending the inaugural ceremony of the Nigerian Army Fleet Auto Switch Kick-off Programme on Tuesday in Abuja.

The Nigerian Army Fleet Auto Switch pilot programme is spearheaded by the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi), the Ministry of Transportation through the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), and the Nigerian Army in Abuja, as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to transition to a more sustainable and cost-efficient source of energy.

The Minister of Steel Development stated in his remarks that the initiative is a fulfilment of commitments of the'renewed hope’ administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy on Nigerians.

“I want to commend the Nigerian Army, the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi), the Ministry of Transportation, and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT) on the laudable initiative.

“This goes to demonstrate the commitments of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to easing the plights of citizens as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy, and to join the rest of the world in transitioning towards green, sustainable, and cost-effective sources of energy.

“As stakeholders in P-CNGi, the Ministry of Steel Development also has plans for a proposed CNG park within the territories of the Ajaokuta Steel Company.  

“The CNG Park to be located in ASCL will benefit from existing infrastructure, like the natural gas line from Warri to Ajaokuta, the Metallurgical Training Centre, the engineering workshops, and the 10,000 housing estates in Ajaokuta environs, amongst other amenities,” Audu stated.

Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Sen. Saidu Alkali, stated that the objective of the event was to promote the adoption of CNG as an environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alternative to fuel for mobility, particularly within the Nigerian Army.

Alkali stated that “I am optimistic that the outcomes of this event will boost the operational spirit of the Nigerian Army in all its formations and commands within the country.

“As part of the broader objectives of the initiative, it is designed to drive down and manage transportation costs for Nigerians by utilising the cheaper gas alternative that is abundant, but currently underutilised in Nigeria’. 

Director-General of the NITT, Dr. Bayero Farrah, noted that the gradual switch by the Nigerian Army is a very significant step that will ultimately boost the security situation in the country, as well as inspire other agencies of government to gradually start converting their operational vehicles to CNG.

“Let me assure you that NITT will continue to do its best towards the realisation of the Nigerian auto gas project,” Farrah said.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Toareed Lagbaja in his address expressed the full support of the Army to Mr. President on the CNG initiative, noting  that the conversion of 30 operational vehicles in the Army Fleet to CNG was just the pilot phase.  

Lagbaja stated that subsequently, the Army Engineers and Technicians who have been trained at NITT would continue the process to ensure that over 50% of their fleet will be CNG based. 

Partner Security agencies to Flush Out Criminals from Ekiti Forests, Oyebanji Orders Forest Guards.

Partner Security agencies to Flush Out Criminals from Ekiti Forests,  Oyebanji Orders Forest Guards.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji  has directed the newly recruited Forest Guards in the state to synregise with security agencies to flush out kidnappers and other criminals that are using Ekiti forests as hideouts and inflicting terror on the citizens.

Oyebanji gave the directive, on Thursday, at the passing out parade organised for the Forest Guards as part of activities marking the 2024 International Forests Day with the theme: "Forests and Innovation: New Solution for a Better World", held in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

Oyebanji, represented by thr Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, disclosed that the government recently employed 22 Forest Guards, 18 boundary- men and 10 technicians to strengthen the workforce and be able to tackle rising cases of insecurity, deforestation and other criminal tendencies being displayed by some unscrupulous elements in Ekiti forests.

Being part of the concerted actions being taken to tame criminals that were infesting the forest reserves, the Governor stated that 20 hectares of land within the precinct of Ise Forest being used for cultivation of Indian Hemp, was recently discovered and destroyed to safeguard the lives of the citizens.

Oyebanji assured Ekiti citizens that his government has mapped out strategies in partnership with some stakeholders to increase forest potential of Ekiti for improved economy, ecosystem and atmospheric condition that can bring about healthy living and prolonged life expectancy of the people.

"Our government has been working tirelessly to ensure that forest estate is totally free from kidnappers and other evil perpetrators like illegal tree fellers, who are destroying our economic trees.

"To this end, this administration recently recruited 22  Foresters, 18 boundary men and 10 technicians to strengthen the workforce with a view to working with other security agencies to combat and flush criminals out of our forest reserves. The passing out parade of these officers is being held today.

" Since the inception of this administration, there has been yearly distribution of seedlings to farmers for improved afforestation , which will in return prevent top soil erosion, flood and landslide mitigation, shelter for wildlife and increased sources of wood products and to serve as barriers against windstorms, so that the forests can contribute optimally to economic growth. 

"You are all aware that the raining season is fast approaching, there is need for every household to start planting trees to prevent destruction of lives and property. If this act is embraced, it will serve as beautification of our environment, reduce carbon emission, and produce fresh air, which will enhance good health condition", the Governor stated. 

Oyebanji pledged that his administration will superfluously equip the workforce of the commission to be able to deliver on the mandate of helping to improve the Internally Generated Revenue of the state  geometrically. 

Lending credence to the fact that Oyebanji's government was ready to invest huge resources to keep the forest reserves in good shape, the Commissioner for Environment, Mrs Tosin Ajisafe- Aluko, said a total of two million tree seedlings will be planted in 2024 to shore up the state's forest potential. 

Aluko stated that the government will contrive many innovations to improve afforestation and make Ekiti viable in the sector to return Ekiti to the old good days, when forestry contributed to the growth of the economy.

In his submission, the Executive Secretary, Ekiti State Forestry Commission, Mr. Sunday Adekunle

disclosed  that  the government is currently nursing 60,000 seedlings of various species at Erunfun Nursery that will be sold to interested members of the public to boost plantation agriculture. 

Adekunle assured that government will also  partner all relevant agencies to tackle forest desertification, pursue robust forest regeneration policy  and propel efficient monitoring of all forests to contribute to the atmospheric and economic development of the state. 

The occasion also featured mounting of the Guard of honour by men and officers of the Forest Guards. 

Present at the occasion were: Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, lawmaker representing Ilejemeje constituency in the House of Assembly, Hon. iyabo Okeimen, her counterpart from Ikere constituency 2, Hon Tunde Idowu and  Southwest constituency 1, Hon. Anthony Adaramodu, as well as the  Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe,

Others were: The  Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Mr Babatunde Alokan, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr Mrs Olomojobi, Permanent  Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, and Technical Adviser on Green Economy and Environment Matters, Dr. Akinyemi Akinyugha, among others.

Group hails Oyebanji’s development strides despite low federal allocation.

Group hails Oyebanji’s development strides despite low federal allocation.

An interest group, Ekiti Professionals has hailed Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s development strides in Ekiti State, in spite of the paltry amount the state receives monthly from the federation account.

Ekiti State is among the states with the lowest allocation from the federation account, but with massive infrastructure and huge investments in the lives of the citizens to show for it.

The group, in a statement in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday, cited Governor Oyebanji’s innovative style and prudence in the management of the state’s resources as two factors responsible for the economic and infrastructure development in the state.

The Group’s statement which was signed by its President, Kola Oyeniyi and Secretary, Stephen Olusegun, referenced the February allocation to the states, where Ekiti got N6.9 billion, which was second to the lowest allocation among the 36 states, while Delta, Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa states got N38.1 billion, N26.6 billion and  N22.8 billion respectively.

“In spite of the low allocation, it is gratifying to note that development strides of the Biodun Oyebanji administration remain unmatched by many of the states with huge allocations.

“This speaks to one thing- Governor Oyebanji, through prudent management of the little resources accrued to the state from the federation account and its internally generated revenue, has been able to impact the lives of the citizens through various programmes, policies and projects that have stimulated economic growth and make lives more enjoyable for the people.

“Governor Oyebanji has consistently paid salaries and pensions and other emoluments as and when due, he has so many road projects going on simultaneously in different parts of the state and has made huge investment in power infrastructure, education, health care and human capital development.

“The recent N12billion economic relief package of the Oyebanji government remains one of the most effective by any state government in terms of the diverse nature of the people captured under the programme”, the group said.

While the group lauded the Governor’s deployment of technology to boost the internally generated revenue, it urged the citizens of the state to cooperate with the government in the payment of their taxes, stressing that the results are glaring for all to see that the tax payers’ money is well utilised in Ekiti State.

Hon. Idowu Odebunmi Engages Omu-Ijelu and Ilupeju Ward, Vows Continued Quality Representation.

Hon. Idowu Odebunmi Engages Omu-Ijelu and Ilupeju Ward, Vows Continued Quality Representation.

In an effort to bolster grassroots engagement and fulfill campaign promises, Honorable Idowu Odebunmi, Member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly representing Oye constituency, took the Ilerioluwa train to Omu-Ijelu and Ilupeju ward on Wednesday. The meeting aimed to connect with party faithfuls and shed light on the ongoing plans and accomplishments of his administration.

Addressing the attendees, Hon. Odebunmi reaffirmed his commitment to soliciting feedback from constituents, emphasizing the significance of grassroots involvement in governance. He lauded Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's achievements in the constituency and expressed gratitude to party members for their steadfast support and encouragement.

Highlighting Governor Oyebanji's dedication to grassroots development, Hon. Odebunmi called for collaboration between the government and communities to drive progress. In their remarks, Hon. Olushola Michael Oniyelu, Chairman of Ifeloju LCDA, and Chief Ogunsakin Samuel (Oloye), APC Chairman of Oye Local Government, commended Governor Oyebanji's developmental strides and commended Hon. Odebunmi for bridging the communication gap between the government and grassroots.

Hon. Idowu Odebunmi seized the opportunity to outline the areas of focus such as education, health, youth empowerment, and community development that the wards can expect his support in.

The engagement underscores Hon. Odebunmi's dedication to effective representation and community development, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship between the government and the people.

ADP Guber Candidate Visits Ekiti First Lady, Gives Reasons For Joining APC.

ADP Guber Candidate Visits Ekiti First Lady, Gives Reasons For Joining APC. 

...Erelu Elebute-Halle's joining APC will benefit our people, says Dr. Oyebanji.

The Action Democratic Party (ADP) candidate in the 2022 governorship election in Ekiti State, Erelu Kemi Elebute-Halle, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, to formally inform her of her intent to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Erelu Elebute-Halle said she was attracted into the APC by the exemplary leadership style, down-to-earth nature, inclusivity and humility of Governor Biodun Oyebanji since he assumed power on October 16, 2022.

Erelu Elebute-Halle declared that she is now loyal to Governor Oyebanji henceforth and would now give him the full support in the task to transform Ekiti and make the state a place its citizens can be proud of anywhere they find themselves.

The visit of Erelu Elebute-Halle to the First Lady was part of the formalities that would lead to her official public declaration for the APC expected to take place in few days' time. She was joined on the visit by the state ADP Chairman, Chief Femi Eponlolaye.

The former governorship flag bearer also showered encomium on the Governor's wife for her kindheartedness, compassion and generosity to the less privileged people which she noted has complemented the good works of her husband.

Apparently impressed with the impact of Dr. Oyebanji's pet project Widows and Orphans Hope (WAOH) in the grassroots, Erelu Elebute-Halle made a cash donation in support of the project to the admiration of her host.

The engineer-turned politician disclosed that her decision to join the ruling APC was a product of wide consultations with prominent political figures in the state across party lines and her teeming supporters which she believed was for the good of the state.

According to her, Governor Oyebanji's act of reaching out to opponents who contested against him at the 2022 governorship poll including herself was an uncommon act of statesmanship which she accepted because she is not a bitter politician.

Erelu Elebute-Halle said Governor Oyebanji's performance is gradually turning Ekiti into a one-party state for positive reasons adding that the feedback from the grassroots indicate that he is doing well in making a difference in the state.

"Governor Oyebanji is not a boss, he is a leader and Ekiti operates a one-party system in which his humility, respect for the people and good governance are complementing the good works he is doing.

"I have carefully considered it that I would like to cross to the APC. I am joining the APC because of the humility and respect of your husband and I am pledging my loyalty to you, your husband and I am ready to support your husband henceforth.

"I am also joining the APC because of the way you people are piloting the affairs of Ekiti t. You are doing well, we are ready to support you and I am ready to be part of your progressive move.

"Behind a successful man is a successful woman and behind a successful governor, is a successful woman. I respect and admire you a lot for the great things you are doing in supporting your husband to do wonderful things he is doing for our state," Erelu Elebute-Halle said.

In her response, Dr. Oyebanji expressed delight with the decision of Erelu Elebute-Halle to join the APC to partner with a government led by the progressives party to make the lives of the people of Ekiti better.

The First Lady who assured the former ADP governorship candidate that she would not regret her decision emphasized that she (Erelu Elebute-Halle) is not a stranger to her husband.

Dr. Oyebanji said: "I pray that your partnership will be fruitful. I love you and what you represent. You are not a stranger to BAO because of your experience in politics.

"My husband used to tell me that in politics, every vote counts and everybody is important in politics. Your coming is for the betterment of our people. You are at home with me and I want to specially welcome you.

"BAO is on a mission to make Ekiti better and have a positive impact on the lives of the people of the state and it can only get better."

Oyebanji's Wife Cultivates Garden At Govt House.

Oyebanji's Wife Cultivates Garden At Govt House.

....Urges Residents to Engage in Farming.

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji has encouraged residents of the state irrespective of their status to engage in farming to mitigate the effect of current economic challenges.

The Ekiti State First Lady stated this while planting vegetables at her garden located at Government House, Ayoba Villa in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

She explained that cultivation of garden at every home is an initiative of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu which was needed to cushion the effect of the current hardship.

Dr. Oyebanji noted that bags and containers could as well be used to grow food crops if there were no space to cultivate a garden around the house.

The First Lady added that such activity remained an avenue to exercise the body and promote healthy living through consumption of organic food crops.

Dr. Oyebanji was accompanied by by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade; Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning and Performance Management, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo and Commissioner for Investment, Trade and Industry, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola.

Yesterday, I started the cultivation of a garden at the Government House to plant vegetables to encourage other citizens of Ekiti State to take to farming, boost food security and keep hunger at bay.

The cultivation of garden at every home is an initiative of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a means of tackling the challenges of high cost of food materials and mitigate the effects of the current economic challenges.

Apart from producing food at subsistent level, raising a garden at home creates an avenue to exercise the body and promote healthy living through consumption of organic food crops.

Olawande commends NASS over passage of NYSC Trust fund Bill.

Olawande commends NASS over passage of NYSC Trust fund Bill.

The Minister of State for Youth Development, Mr. Ayodele Olawande has applauded the National Assembly over the passage of the NYSC Trust fund Bill, noting that the lawmakers have given a significant boost to the efforts to enhance skill acquisition, training and generally empower graduates who take part in the national youth service programme.

Olawande, who noted the painstaking legislative process that culminated in the eventual passage of the bill since it was first presented over two years ago, said it was a huge relief that the 10th National Assembly has now made history with the passage of the game-changing bill that promises to speed up efforts to productively engage Nigeria’s graduate youths.

According to the Minister, the NYSC Trust fund Bill is a great milestone achievement for which everyone who took part in its actualization deserve a great deal of commendation.

"It is refreshing and heartwarming to receive the news of the passage of this important Bill. I congratulate the NYSC family in particular and extend a special appreciation to the sponsor of the Bill, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, for his doggid commitment. Now, we have a good pedestal upon which to stand in our efforts to improve camp facilities, enhance the welfare of corps members and staff of the scheme; as well as reinvigorate the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) initiative of the NYSC,” the Minister said. 

Olawande called on stakeholders in the youth development sector to continue to partner with the youth ministry to evolve ingenious ways to address the challenges of unemployment and skill gap bedeviling the youths, stating that the NYSC trust fund bill could be the beginning of other lofty initiatives aimed at harnessing resources for holistic youth empowerment.