Engage Ekiti youths or forfeit Your Job Ekiti Government warns contractors.

Engage Ekiti youths or forfeit Your Job Ekiti Government warns contractors.

Ekiti State government has again warned contractors handling various projects in the state to comply with the local content laws of the State especially on the employment of indigenous skilled labourers and professionals to carry out their jobs.

Director General, Bureau of Local Content in Ekiti State, Olalekan Ijidale said the law stipulates that 40% of Ekiti indigene are expected to be employed by the contractors but noticed that majority of the contractors are not complying.

Ijidale who spoke after a visit to Craneburg site noted that his office would not tolerate a situation where contractors engaged by the state would bring in all their skilled labourers and professionals from outside the state saying such is an aberration and would be resisted.

He said:” I am disappointed this afternoon after getting to the site and noticed that only a very few of our youths are engaged to do ridiculous jobs while majority of the workers on site are non indigenes.

” This attitude is against the Local Content law, I have taken my time to meet with contractors and also visit their sites to educate them on this law but unfortunately, they seems not to be ready to comply.

“We see this action as a deliberate affront against government and we will not tolerate it any longer, Ijidale affirmed.

“We have graduates here who are engineers and have relevant skills in construction and so on, if they are not engaged how would they gather experience, recruiting Ekiti indigenous for menial jobs alone is not acceptable, there must be balance.

“Any Contractor found guilty will surely face the consequence.

According to him, the contracts offered to the contractors are financed by the tax paid by the indigenes of the state hance they can not be left unattended to while strangers come from outside to get what belong to them.

Minister of State for Youth Development, Minister of State for Police Affairs Unveils “Young & Secure” Initiative.

Minister of State for Youth Development, Minister of State for Police Affairs Unveils “Young & Secure” Initiative.

As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for Young Nigerians, The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande in collaboration with the Honourable Minister of State for Police Affairs, Ibrahim imman-Suleima, today, launched the “Young and Secure” initiative.

The initiative is a joint effort between the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Ministry of Youth Development. It comprises three key components: enhancing civic commitment through a pact that addresses the security needs of young people, fostering youth-focused engagement to promote dialogue and cooperation with law enforcement agencies, and implementing a technology-powered platform for transparency, accountability, and swift resolution of security-related issues.

During the press briefing, The Minister of State for Youth Development also announced the launching of the “Nigerian Youth Helpdesk”, a platform that serves as a centralized hub for efficiently managing and resolving complaints from Nigerian youths regarding the Police and other law enforcement agencies, and creating a database for strategic decision making and policy direction to foster an enabling environment for our youths to feel safe and secured.

In his speech, Ayodele Olawande said, “We're committed to ensuring the accessibility of the help desk nationwide, collaborating with stakeholders in all 36 states and the FCT to ensure smooth escalation and resolution of police-related concerns from Nigerian Youths”

 

He also encouraged the public to utilize this resource responsibly, He implored Nigerian Youths to support the Ministries as plans are in motion to bolster trust and collaboration between the police and Nigerian Youths which undoubtedly, would help to build a safer and more secure future for all.

Governor Oyebanji In US, Due Back Soon, EKSG Replies Sahara Reporters.

Governor Oyebanji In US, Due Back Soon, EKSG Replies Sahara Reporters.

The attention of the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has been drawn to a misleading report by Sahara Reporters on his trip to the United States. 

There would have been no need to respond to the misleading report, because the itinerary of the Governor was well publicized before he embarked on the trip. However, this response is being made for the sake of the reading public who might be hoodwinked by the highly misleading report. 

It is on record that the itinerary of the Governor was made public through a statement signed his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode on May 5, 2024. 

The statement, which was circulated in both the traditional and social media, indicated that Governor Oyebanji would, during the trip, participate in the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas and the nineteenth session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF19) in New- York. The statement also indicated that the Governor was scheduled to hold talks with critical stakeholders, business leaders and development partners in furtherance of the shared prosperity agenda of the administration, before returning to the country. 

Highlights of the Governor’s engagements in the US are regularly communicated to the people of the state through media reports. These include his panel presentations, engagements with business leaders and development partners as well as the signing of the multi billion naira 100,000 hectares cassava farm with CAVISTA Holdings. The engagements continue till his return date. 

In line with the transparency and accountability policy of the administration, all local and international engagements and trips of the Governor have always been made public. And this current one is not an exception. 

It is on record that the current US trip of the Governor is the first outside the Continent since assuming office on October 16, 2022. The first trip outside the country was a UNDP sponsored induction programme for Governors held in Kigali; followed by the Afrexim Meeting in Cairo, where the state got a very significant infrastructure support from the bank. 

We urge Sahara Reporters to always conduct proper checks before going to the press. A call to the media office of the Governor or a click on the internet would have provided the needed information on the trip as well as outlined activities and prevented the news organization from publishing an obviously misleading and mischievous report.

Signed 

Yinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State.

Ondo State Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene collaborates with the Federal Ministry of Water.

Ondo State Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene collaborates with the Federal Ministry of Water.

In a move aimed at strengthening collaboration between state and federal water sectors, Hon. Sunday Akinwalire, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation, and Hygiene of Ondo State, led a delegation to pay a courtesy visit to the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, at his office in Abuja on Wednesday, May 15, 2024.

The visit served a dual purpose: to congratulate Prof. Utsev on his recent appointment as the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, and to discuss avenues for enhancing cooperation between the federal and state water sectors. The meeting was described as a milestone in creating a symbiotic relationship essential for the development and management of water resources in Nigeria.

During the visit, Hon. Akinwalire, on behalf of the Ondo State water sector, presented a roll-up banner to the Minister. This gesture symbolized the commitment and readiness of the state to work closely with the federal ministry to achieve common goals in water resources management and public sanitation.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Akinwalire expressed his optimism about the future of water resource management in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of federal-state partnerships in addressing water and sanitation challenges. He highlighted the achievements of the Ondo State water sector and underscored the need for continuous support and collaboration from the federal ministry.

Prof. Utsev, in his response, appreciated the delegation for their visit and congratulatory messages. He reiterated his commitment to improving the water sector across the country and assured the delegation of his support in enhancing water supply, sanitation, and hygiene services. He also noted the significance of such visits in fostering better understanding and cooperation between different levels of government.

In attendance at the meeting were; Hon Prof. J.T Utsev, Minister for Water Resources, Hon. Sunday Akinwalire, Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Mrs. Victoria Adetoye, Administrative Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Engr. Ogunjobi R.S., General Manager of Ondo State Water Corporation (ODWC), Engr. Dahiru Abdul Kareem, Federal Project Coordinator and Special Adviser on Technical Matters to the Hon. Minister, and Engr. Omoge V.O, State Project Coordinator.

The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to maintain regular communication and to explore innovative solutions to water management challenges. This visit marks a positive step towards achieving sustainable water resource management and improved public health outcomes in Nigeria.

Signed:

Olukoju Clement, Communication Desk Officer, ODWC (PIU)

Hon. Ojuawo Seeks Additional Value to Raw Materials and Mineral Resources.

Hon. Ojuawo Seeks Additional Value to Raw Materials and Mineral Resources.

The Honourable member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, has sought additional value to be added to our raw materials and mineral resources before exportation.

In a motion of urgent national importance moved on the floor of the house, Hon. Ojuawo asked the Federal Government to review its exportation and importation policy to allow our natural resources and raw materials to always have additional value before exportation.

He highlighted the importance of additional value as a means to further strengthen the hemorrhaging economy by creating more jobs and revenue for the nation. 'It is imperative that we stop the exportation of our raw materials and natural resources to foreign nations without additional value that could enhance their market value and strengthen our economy at home. The policy needs to be overhauled to allow additional value that will create jobs, revenue, and stimulate our economy for growth and development. We can't be import-dependent without creating additional value to our own natural resources that will increase our Gross Domestic Product. Creating additional value will further open the economy to technological innovation and transfer that will further reduce import dependence.'

Hon. Ojuawo, however, urged the house to seek an end to this by imposing a ban on all unprocessed raw materials from leaving the country, among other measures proffered on the floor of the house. 'I urge the house to impose a ban on all unprocessed raw materials from leaving the country and also call on the Federal Government to introduce policies and incentives that will make the creation of additional value attractive to investors and foreign partners. Moreover, let the house direct the relevant committee of the house to conduct an investigation into the current practices and challenges related to the exportation of raw materials out of our country and refer this motion to the appropriate committee for further legislative work with a given timeline.'

The house unanimously directed all relevant committees of the National Assembly to look into the current practices and challenges in the exportation of all unprocessed raw materials to aid the house's intervention and guidance in policy formulation that will lead to the development and growth of the economy.

GRUNDFOS Water Solution NGA Ltd Partners with Ondo State Ministry of Water Resources.

GRUNDFOS Water Solution NGA Ltd Partners with Ondo State Ministry of Water Resources.

GRUNDFOS Water Solution NGA Ltd has announced its intention to partner with the Ondo State Government through the Ministry of Water Resources, Public Sanitation, and Hygiene (MWRPS&H) to address the state's water needs.

The company's team, led by representatives who met with Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa, outlined several areas of expertise that GRUNDFOS will bring to the partnership. These include:

1. Energy-efficient water solutions (minimal power consumption).

2. Renewable energy water solutions (reducing OPEX amid high diesel costs).

3. Water solutions for Ondo State Government's AFD and AFDB projects.

4. Pump installation, commissioning, and aftermarket services.

5. Capacity building sessions for Ondo State water utility engineers.

6. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in indigent communities.

7. Factory tours and witness tests for water stakeholders and utility engineers.

Governor Ayedatiwa highlighted the importance of water in his administration’s plans, stating that a comprehensive Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Project has been drafted. This project will cover several local government areas, including Akure South, Akure North, Ifedore, Idanre, Ondo West, Ondo East, and Ile Oluji/Okeigbo.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Hon. Sunday Akinwalire, Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation, and Hygiene; Mrs. Victoria Adetoye, Administrative Secretary (MWRPS&H); Engr. Ogunjobi R.S., General Manager, Ondo State Water Corporation (ODWC); Engr. Omoge V.O, Project Coordinator ODWC (PIU), and representatives from GRUNDFOS, Mr. Nwachukwu E. and Mr. Peter A.

Speaking to journalists, Hon. Sunday Akinwalire described the partnership as a significant development that will enhance the availability of clean, drinkable water for the citizens of Ondo State.

About GRUNDFOS Water Solution NGA Ltd.

GRUNDFOS, founded in 1945, is a Danish pump manufacturer with headquarters in Denmark. Today, it is one of the largest and most renowned companies in the water industry, producing over 17 million centrifugal water pumps annually. These pumps are conceptualized, developed, engineered, manufactured, marketed, sold, and serviced by over 20,000 highly motivated employees globally.

GRUNDFOS produces electric motors for the pumps and separate merchandising, and develops and sells electronics for pump controls and other systems. The company's purpose is to pioneer solutions to the world’s water and climate challenges and improve the quality of life for people. GRUNDFOS sets the standard in innovation, efficiency, reliability, and sustainability, connecting with millions of people every day.

Signed:

Olukoju Clement, Communication Desk Officer, ODWC (PIU).

Oyebanji lauds architects’ role in Ekiti development.

Oyebanji lauds architects’ role in Ekiti development.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has commended the significant contribution of architects to the state’s development, stressing that the surge in the developmental projects across the state is made possible through the expertise of Ekiti architects, who are key partners in progress.

Governor Oyebanji gave the commendation in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday while receiving the leadership of the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA), led by its President, Arc Mobolaji Adeniyi and the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) led by its President, Arc Dipo Ajayi; who were in the state for their annual extra ordinary general assembly meeting.

The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro Highlighted the role of Architects in transforming the physical landscape and enhancing infrastructure status of the state. He said the architectural community has been instrumental in various developmental projects in the state, spanning urban planning, construction of public buildings, which collectively elevate the state’s economic and social status.

The Governor added that these projects have not only improved the quality of life for the citizens but also attracted investment through tourism to the state. 

Speaking further, the Governor disclosed  that efforts are ongoing to enhance Ado Ekiti’s urban landscape with the aim tog positioning it as a model city with sustainable and aesthetically pleasing infrastructure.

The Governor maintained that his administration remains committed to sustainable development, which recognizes the invaluable contributions of every professional as part of Ekiti journey towards the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

He stated, "In any society yearning for development like we are in Ekiti State, the Architects play leading roles in projects that initiate and beautify the development in the society.

“Ekiti State, under my watch is witnessing rapid developmental projects in all sectors of the economy and it is in the light of this that we appreciate Ekiti sons and daughters in the field of architecture for spearheading the hosting of NIA and ARCON where we hope to tap from the wealth of their experience”.

Earlier in his remark, the President of the Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Arc. Dipo Ajayi, who commended the Governor on his giant strides in infrastructural development, said the council, with other relevant bodies were in Ekiti to brainstorm and partner with Ekiti State government to explore ways to enhance the state’s internally generated revenue through infrastructural development.

Addressing the prevalent issues of unqualified practitioners in the field, the President assured that the institute would also devise strategies to combat the problem.

In his own remark, the Ekiti State Chairman of NIA, Mr Wale Ajayi, lauded Governor Oyebanji’s policy of supporting local contrators and artisans, emphasizing that such would help architects maintain quality control and continuation of this policy.

Also at the meeting were the Head of Service, Engr. Sunday Komolafe, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon karounwi Oladapo; Special Adviser on Special Projects, Arch. Temitope Ogunley; Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Surveyor- General, of the State, Executive members of the Nigerian Institute of Architects and Architects Registration Council of Nigeria.