Ekiti Executive Council Makes Fresh Approvals, Initiates Amendment of State Procurement Law.

Ekiti Executive Council Makes Fresh Approvals, Initiates Amendment of State Procurement Law.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The State Executive Council, during its meeting held on Tuesday, April 16th, 2024, reached a significant decision to approve amendments to the State Procurement law. This move signals a proactive approach by the government to enhance procurement processes and ensure transparency and efficiency in governance. The fresh approvals and amendments underscore the commitment of the state government to upholding best practices and fostering a conducive environment for sustainable development.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE THIRD MEETING (2024) OF THE EKITI STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL HELD ON TUESDAY, 16TH APRIL, 2024.

1. EKITI STATE GOVERNMENT APPROVES PAYMENT OF N300MILLION COMPENSATION FOR THE PROPOSED ATIKANKAN/IGBEYIN URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT:

The Ekiti State Executive Council has approved the payment of 300Million Naira as complete compensation on the proposed Urban Renewal project at Atikankan/Igbeyin area of Ado Ekiti.

The approval is to cover 130 claimants for permanent structures and 21 for temporary constructions.

The development was done in line with the urban renewal vision to transform Ado-Ekiti to a more economic viable State Capital.

The affected Atikankan area of Ado-Ekiti, behind Akodi-Sasere area falls within the Central Business District (CBD) of Ado-Ekiti, which had degenerated into a complex Urban Shanty Slum that is presently associated with serious urban; physical, social and environmental problems that require total clearance as the urban renewal resolution option for the area.

The State Government had earlier set up a committee under the Chairmanship of the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akin Oyebode on the valuation and compensation to be paid to the claimants following a reconnaissance survey of the area conducted by the Office of the Surveyor General and Bureau of Land Services.

The compensation would be paid directly to the claimants by the Ministry of Physical planning and Urban Development.

2. EKITI STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL APPROVES N88.35MILLION FOR DREDGING IN ADO, IKERE, EKITI S/WEST LGAS:

Ekiti State Executive Council also approved a sum of N88,351,351.35 to continue dredging exercise in Ado, Ikere and Ekiti South-West Local Government Areas to forestall incidence of flood and its attendant risk to lives and property.

The State Government had proactively commenced dredging of major river courses in Ado Ekiti in January, 2023 even before the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NIMET) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) issued flood alerts flagging the State capital as a high risk zone, prone to flooding in 2023 raining season.

The dredging project actually helped to immensely reduce the impact of flooding predicted by NIMET in the State but unfortunately, the funds released for the project became inadequate due to hyper-inflation, astronomical increase in prizes of diesel, petrol, Swamp Buggy spare parts, haulage/movement of swamp Buggy from one location to another and maintenance cost.

The aforementioned changes coupled with devaluation of Naira and sharp increase in the exchange rate of Dollar to Naira, distorted major variables & assumptions upon which the approval of Mr. Governor was granted.

The project to be implemented through direct labour is to be completed within three months.

3. EXCO APPROVES N264.3M COMPLETION OF AGRIC OLOPE, RENOVATION OF OJA OBA MARKETS:

Ekiti State Government similarly approved the sum of N264,317,561.24 for the additional works on the completion of Agric Olope and renovation of Oja Oba markets.

The move is a demonstration of the commitment of the Biodun Oyebanji’s administration to enhance commercial activities at the markets and in alignment with the Six-Pillar Agenda of the present Administration.

Governor Oyebanji had earlier constituted a taskforce to ensure timely completion of the Agric Olope/Shasha and renovation Oja Oba. The Task-Force, after various monitoring and progress reports, indicated that there were some outstanding and additional works to be done at both Agric Olope and Oja Oba for the successful delivery of its mandate.

The scope of work for the Agric Olope market was extended to cover construction of car parks, construction of culverts at the back of the market’s fence and construction of four hundred and eighty four (484) spaces for Street Traders.

While the scope of work for Oja Oba covers renovation of some civil works, provision of Fire Marshal’s Office, procurement of firefighting equipment and provision/installation of solar energy as alternative source of power.

The project would be executed through direct Labour.

4. EXCO APPROVES AMENDMENT AND PRESENTATION OF PROCUREMENT LAW TO STATE ASSEMBLY:

Ekiti State Government also approved recommendation for amendment of the State Procurement Law on the application of Direct Labour Method and the transmission of the said approval to the State House of Assembly for ratification and due amendment of the law.

After a holistic review of the Direct Labour method of procurement, the State Executive Council approved that in all cases where the Direct Labour method is used, magnitude and scope of the project shall be such that the MDA can manage efficiently while values were upwardly reviewed from N1Million to N20Million for goods and services and increased from N10Million to N200Million for Works.

Exco added that when values of project to be executed using Direct Labour method exceeds the recommended value, procurement must be reasonably justified and certified by the Bureau of Public Procurement for consideration and approval of the State Tenders Board.

A four-man committee under the Chairmanship of the State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode had earlier been constituted by Governor Biodun Oyebanji following concerns raised by the State Executive Council on the use of the Direct labour method of procurement.

The Committee was to:

i. evaluate the position of the State’s Procurement Law (SPL) with respect to the application of direct labour method;

ii. review the situation report and current practice of MDAs using direct labour method and the effects on project implementation and management;

iii. review the threshold for different categories of projects in line with current economic realities; and

iv. come up with recommendations on the bearable level of risk allowed by the State

Exco stressed that under no condition shall the procuring entity implement Direct Labour by hiring external labour or use of a contractor. However in exceptional cases, a direct Labour Project may involve the hiring of casual labour provided the estimated cost of the casual labour is less than 5% of cost of project.

5. THE STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL CONSTITUTED A FIVE-MAN COMMITTEE ON PROJECT MONITORING IN THE STATE:

The State Executive Council similarly approved the constitution of a five-man committee to monitor execution of Government’s projects in the State.

The Committee is made up of the State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Akintunde Oyebode as Chairman.

Other members are the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, the Special Adviser, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. Moyo Ekundayo, Special Adviser, Independent Project Monitoring Unit, Mr. Femi Ajayi and Special Adviser/DG, Bureau of Public Procurement, Mr. Babasola Folorunso.

The Committee was directed to monitor and report to Council on Government’s projects in the State.

 

Signed:

Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun,

Hon. Commissioner for Information.

EKSG Empowers 74 New Support Staff with Special Needs Training.

EKSG Empowers 74 New Support Staff with Special Needs Training.

In a bid to enhance inclusivity and support for children with special needs, Ekiti State Government has launched a two- day comprehensive fundamental ethics and proficiency training and workshop for 74 support staff that were recently recruited. 

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's deep concern for children with special abilities has spurred significant investments in the sector, part of which is the training programme organised by the office of the Special Adviser, Special Education and Social Inclusion. 

Gathered at the School for the Blind in Ikere Ekiti, the newly recruited staff drawn  from the state's three government special schools embarked on the intensive two-day seminar to equip them for their new roles.

The State Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, lauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji's multifaceted initiatives aimed at supporting children with special needs. She urged the new recruits to reciprocate the government's commitment by delivering high-quality service, emphasizing the importance of punctuality, dedication, and innovation in their duties.

Mrs. Adetoun Agboola, the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, in her remarks at the event, reiterated Governor Oyebanji's dedication to inclusivity in governance. She assured the recruits of a rigorous selection process based on merit and proximity to each special school, minimizing logistical challenges and ensuring seamless learning experiences for the children.

Highlighting ongoing projects such as school renovations and vehicle refurbishments to enhance mobility, Mrs. Agboola emphasized the significance of the support staff's role in the state's inclusive agenda.

Dignitaries at the event including Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, and Dr. Azeez, Special Adviser on Tertiary Education, encouraged the recruits to uphold the government's commitment through diligence and productivity.

The Special Adviser, Special Edication and Social Inclusion, Mrs Agboola led the invited guests including Commissioner for Capacity Development, Prof Patrick Tedela; on an onsite assessment of the school's AGILE  project after the flag off of the training programme, even as she emphasized government's proactive approach to educational infrastructure in the state.

Ekiti First Lady Tasks Stakeholders On Talents Development In Creative Industry.

Ekiti First Lady Tasks Stakeholders On Talents Development In Creative Industry. 

Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has called on stakeholders to prioritize the development of the state by continuing to support and nurture local talents, in view of its invaluable roles in shaping the people's cultural identity.

The First Lady made the call as a the special guest at the Sunday-Sunday Variety Show organized by the Ekiti State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado Ekiti.

Dr. Oyebanji noted that the contributions of the weekly Variety Show to the socio-economic growth of the state could not be underestimated thereby showcasing and promoting the vibrant talents available in the state.

The Governor's wife however commended the organizers for their dedication to promoting cultural heritage and providing a platform for artists to showcase their talents. 

She added that the captivating performances in comedy, dance, music, and arts exhibitions, had reminded the the people of the immense creativity and ingenuity in the creative sub-sector which is being used by the Biodun Oyebanji Administration as a job creation platform.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Prof. Rasaki Ojo-Bakare, said the show would encourage those working in the state to stay during weekends for relaxation rather than travelling out of the state for leisure and entertainment.

Prof. Ojo-Bakare who noted that a lot of working population in the state most especially in banking sector have been complaining about boring environment during weekends however said the show would make the state more lively and relaxing.

According to the Commissioner, the show will also reduce capital flight to other states for those who usually spend their weekends at the neighboring states, harvest new talents and mentor them to pinnacle of their career.

The event was attended by top government officials, political office holders, civil servants, students, youths and other interested members of the public.

Kano APC counter Ganduje’s purported suspension, sacks Ward leaders.

Kano APC counter Ganduje’s purported suspension, sacks Ward leaders.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, state working committee in Kano, has taken drastic measures against some Ward Party Leaders who suspended the National Chairman of the Party, Umar Abdullahi Ganduje.

APC Ganduje ward in Dawakin Tofa Local Government was said to have suspended Ganduje but in a quick counter, the party’s local government officials thwarted the suspension and sacked those behind it.

The APC Dawakin Tofa Local Government Chairman, Inusa Dawanau, told Newsmen that those behind the suspension of the National Chairman were caught in anti-party activities and their records of meetings with the opposition, exposed.

Adopting the suspension of the APC Ward APC leaders, the state working committee of the Party said they have sanctioned the perpetrators for six months and a special investigations panel has been set up to verify several allegations against them.

The Kano Chairman of the Party, Abdullahi Abbas, said the decisions of the LG Party Leaders have since been adopted.

“We have evidence of meetings between the state government officials and those that suspended the National Chairman. The state working committee has agreed to sanction them for six months and they stand now suspended.”

However, one of the accused party men against Ganduje, Halliru Gwanjo said they decided to suspend him from the party due to the allegations levelled against him by the Kano State government on bribery.

EKSG pays N546.9m for WAEC/SSCE Fees, Supporting 16,269 Secondary School Students.

EKSG pays N546.9m for WAEC/SSCE Fees, Supporting 16,269 Secondary School Students.

.....Calls on Parents to Report Unauthorized Fee Requests.

 By Olamide Akinwumi 

His Excellency Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Executive Governor of Ekiti State. 

The Ekiti State Government has disbursed a total of N546,901,000.00 to cover the West African Examination Council/Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC/SSCE) fees and administrative expenses for all 16,269 SS3 students enrolled in public secondary schools across the state for the year 2024.

This disclosure was made by the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Bimpe Aderiye, in a statement issued to journalists in Ado Ekiti. Dr. Aderiye emphasized that no public secondary school in the state is authorized to collect any WAEC registration fees, as the government has already covered the expenses for all eligible students.

Ekiti Commissioner of Education, Dr. (Mrs.) Bimpe Aderiye.

Warning against any attempts by officials of public schools to demand fees for the examination, Dr. Aderiye labeled such actions as sabotage against government directives. She urged parents and guardians to refrain from paying any unauthorized fees, as doing so undermines government policy and hampers efforts to enhance the socioeconomic status of the populace.

In a bid to uphold transparency and accountability, the Commissioner urged all stakeholders to promptly report any instances of unauthorized fee collection for the 2024 WAEC/SSCE exams to her office, or to the offices of the Permanent Secretaries of Education or Teaching Service Commission.

Reaffirming the state government's unwavering commitment to improving the education sector, Dr. Aderiye assured that every necessary measure will be taken to achieve the desired educational objectives. She reiterated the government's dedication to providing quality education for all students in Ekiti State, promising that no stone will be left unturned in the pursuit of this goal.

The announcement underscores the government's proactive approach towards ensuring equal access to education and alleviating financial burdens on parents and guardians, ultimately contributing to the overall development of the state.

Farewell To An Icon: EKSG Set to Host Commendation Service for Late Barrister Paul Omotosho.

Farewell To An Icon: EKSG Set to Host Commendation Service for Late Barrister Paul Omotosho.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji, has extended a cordial invitation to the residents of the state to join in a special Commendation Service in honor of the late Barrister Paul Ayodele Omotosho, former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ekiti State chapter.

Scheduled for Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at 4:00 PM, the service will take place at Bishop Adetiloye Hall, within the Trade Fair Complex in Ado Ekiti. Named "Evening of Tributes," the event aims to celebrate Barrister Paul Omotosho's remarkable life and legacy as a distinguished politician and lawyer

Late Barrister Paul Omotosho 

Born in Imesi-Ekiti, Barrister Paul Omotosho passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, March 6th, following a brief illness. His untimely demise has deeply saddened the community and left a void in the political landscape of Ekiti State.

The Commendation Service will provide an opportunity for friends, family, colleagues, and well-wishers to come together and pay homage to an icon who touched the lives of many. It will be a heartfelt gathering as attendees reminisce on the impactful contributions and indelible mark left by Barrister Paul Omotosho during his lifetime.

As Ekiti State prepares to bid farewell to one of its most respected figures, the Commendation Service promises to be a poignant tribute, reflecting on the enduring legacy of Barrister Paul Omotosho and the profound impact he had on the lives of those around him.

Residents are encouraged to join in this solemn occasion to honor the memory of Barrister Paul Omotosho and to show solidarity with his family during this difficult time. Let us come together on Wednesday, April 17th, to celebrate the life of a remarkable individual whose influence will be remembered for years to come.

Aiyedatiwa Assigns Portfolios to New Commissioners in Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa Assigns Portfolios to New Commissioners in Ondo State.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has announced the assignment of portfolios to the newly inaugurated Commissioners in the State.

In a statement released by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday, 15th, the following portfolios were disclosed:

●Local Government & Chieftaincy Affairs: Amidu Takuro

●Physical Planning & Urban Development: Hon Gbenga Olaniyi Esq.

●Water Resources & Sanitation: Hon Sunday Akinwalere.

●Agriculture: Hon Olayato Aribo

●Health: Dr Banji Ajaka

●Culture & Tourism: Hon. Rasheed Badmus

●Women Affairs & Social Development: Deaconess Lola Fagbemi

●Youth & Sport: Hon Saka Yusuf Ogunleye

●Education: Mr. Laolu Akindolire

●Commerce & Industry: Pastor Segun Ayerin

●Regional Integration & Development: Hon Boye Ologbese

●Information & Orientation: Hon Wale Akinlosotu

Additionally, Hon. Olugbenga Omole has been re-assigned from the Ministry of Information to the Ministry of Transport as Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation.

The announcement marks a significant step towards the effective governance and development of Ondo State, as the new commissioners assume their respective roles and responsibilities in service to the state and its people.