Oyebanji meets media executives, urges greater collaboration on development.

Oyebanji meets media executives, urges greater collaboration on development. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called for a greater level of collaboration between media organisations and the state government in the drive to ensure adequate information dissemination to the people of the state, especially the grassroots.

Governor Oyebanji, who spoke on Monday during a meeting with members of the Forum of General Managers of radio and television stations in the state, said the essence of such synergy is to create situation the people are effectively informed on the various developmental strides of the government as well as their roles, as citizens, in the development efforts.

At the meeting which was attended by General Managers of Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES); Nigeria Television Authority (NTA); Ayoba FM, Radio Nigeria, Progress FM; Voice FM; People’s FM; New Cruse FM; Adamimogo FM; Fresh FM, Midas FM and Adaba FM, the Governor assured them that his administration would soon organize a field trip that will take them to all government projects in the state in order to give a proper perspective of his administration’s development efforts in the last one and a half years.

While lauding the media executives for their fairness in reporting of government activities, Governor Oyebanji said his administration is open to constructive criticism as well as feedback from the citizens. 

The Governor assured the General Managers and other business owners in the state of  adequate security for their properties and investments, stressing that his government is unrelenting in ensuring safety and security of every citizen. 

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun said his Ministry has been engaging the media executives regularly on issues bothering on developmental strides of government and how they can get across to the people through effective information dissemination and management.

Olatunbosun noted that the media in the state had proven to be a strategic partner with the government especially in the areas s of effective communication of government programmes and policies. 

Earlier, the Chairman of the forum and the General Manager of Ayoba FM, Mr Adewale Ojo commended the leadership style of Governor Oyebanji, especially his demonstrated competence, maturity, calmness and compassion for the people. 

He added that with the Governor in the saddle as the helmsman of the state, the people will continue to get the best for their votes.

Ojo emphasized the need to positively inject the minds of the public with the various projects the government has embarked upon in various communities so that the public does not get misinformed from other unauthorized quarters.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Promotes Reward Mechanism, Showers Cash Gifts on 15 Diligent Workers.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Promotes Reward Mechanism, Showers Cash Gifts on 15 Diligent Workers

As part of the well contrived initiatives to elevate reward mechanism in the Civil Service, the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, on Monday, showered cash gifts on 15 workers deemed to have demonstrated diligence, honesty and dedication in the performance of their statutory duties.

Speaking during the award presentation held for the staff of her office, Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Special Assistant (Media), Victor Ogunje, said the gesture was in line with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s tenets that workers who exhibit sacrifices and dedication should be recognised and rewarded.

Eulogizing the staff for their productivity and vibrancy, which makes her office contributes meaningfully to the development of the State, Mrs Afuye, said these beneficiaries were found worthy in character , punctuality, delivery and dedication to duties, and deserved the honour.

She vowed that the sacrifices made by any staff to ramp up the productivity of the office shall be recognised accordingly, saying this remains the best impetus to longstanding culture of redundancy, laziness and carefree attitude that had pervaded the system.

She said: “Today’s event is to confirm the adage that says: nothing is hidden under the heaven. People are watching you , your actions and your character. It is also a confirmation that there is reward for all deeds, if not here on earth, certainly in heaven.

“The need to rescue the service from the carefree attitude that have pervaded the public service gave birth to this idea of award of excellence in our office. It is to encourage the staff to be alive to their responsibilities despite the challenges that are confronting them in the performance of their official roles.

“To the successful awardees, whatever we are giving you might be equal to the level of commitment you have displayed. It is however a sign that your work has nor gone unnoticed. So, accept it as a mark of our appreciation to honour you for making the office proud”.

Mrs Afuye remarked further that the gesture was expected to motivate other workers to give their best and improve their loyalty and productivity during their official stay in the office.

In his submission, the Permanent Secretary , Office of the Deputy Governor, Mr. Abayomi Opeyemi, said the awardees were subjected to careful and indepth scrutiny and perceived to be topnotch in their services before being listed as worthy of the awards.

The Permanent Secretary added that in line with the focus of the Governor Oyebanji’s administration, the Deputy Governor’s Office will continually reward workers, who displayed honesty and dedication to duties, to serve as a morale booster to officers.

Going down memory lane, Opeyemi, said the Deputy Governor, had in a few months ago demonstrated similar gesture, by approving a training seminar for workers, to broaden their horizons and sharpen their knowledge about civil service for better efficiency.

“We are here to reward diligence, hardwork, honesty and loyalty. It was the Deputy Governor that mooted the idea. This showed that the current government is worker- friendly. This showed that the government has the spirit to reward excellence.

“When those who are doing well are being celebrated, then those who are not doing well should also have a change of hearts. Change your ways and do well, because there is a need for us to be hardworking and loyal to a government that is committed to our welfare”.

Commending the government for the motivational initiative, the star- awardee, Mrs Olubusola Ayo-Ajayi, saluted the Deputy Governor and other management staff for counting them worthy, promising that they will recommit themselves to duties to give the office a facelift in terms of productivity rating.

Cavista Holdings Partners University of Texas at Dallas to Open Liaison Office in Nigeria.

Cavista Holdings Partners University of Texas at Dallas to Open Liaison Office in Nigeria.

Cavista Holdings, a leading conglomerate in Nigeria, has partnered with the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) to establish a liaison office in Lagos, Nigeria. This initiative aims to support African students aspiring to study abroad by streamlining the admission process and providing access to quality education.

The partnership was announced during the launch of the University of Texas at Dallas office in Ilupeju, Lagos on Thursday, which was attended by several eminent Nigerians and Americans, such as the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, the US Consul General in Nigeria, Will Stevens, MD Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, amongst others.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. John Olajide, Chairman of Cavista Holdings and host of the event, emphasized the main objective of the office: to facilitate access to quality education for Nigerians by simplifying the admission process to UTD. Olajide, an alumnus of UTD, highlighted the university's significant role in his educational journey and professional success.

“I am thrilled about the opportunities this new office will create for millions of young people in Nigeria and across Africa who are seeking quality education,” said Olajide. “The office will help build strong relationships, attract top students, and ensure that their time at UTD is enriched with friendships and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.”

Reflecting on his career, Olajide acknowledged UTD's pivotal role in shaping his success in healthcare technology and various industries in Nigeria, including technology, agriculture, and hospitality. “I use the lessons I learned at UTD every day to help my companies realize their fullest potential. I am proud to be associated with a school that contributes so much to making the world a better place.”

Olajide noted that the decision to partner with UTD was driven by the need to develop a pipeline of talent that will contribute to Nigeria's future. He expressed confidence that attracting Nigeria and Africa's brightest young minds to UTD would enhance the university's reputation, already recognized as one of the top engineering schools in the United States.

In his speech, the UTD President, Richard Benson expressed deep gratitude to everyone involved in making the partnership possible, particularly John Olajide. “To say that we are proud of our distinguished alumnus is an understatement. John’s leadership has built successful businesses, contributed to the vitality of education, and guided us all into reaching for the stars,” Benson said.

Benson provided an overview of why UTD is uniquely suited to educate students from around the world, especially from Africa. “UT Dallas is a top-tier research university that attracts students and faculty from around the globe. During the 2023-2024 academic year, about one in every five students who enrolled came from countries other than the United States. We have made a concerted effort to provide an education open to students from around the world. The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to graduating well-rounded members of the global community, prepared for rewarding lives and productive careers in a constantly changing world.”

Benson highlighted the personalized educational experience at UTD, where students excel in diverse fields such as math, poetry, business, orchestra, biology, and athletics. “Every square inch of our campus is a learning space. Our significant growth over the last decade means students study in some of the nation’s newest classrooms and most modern laboratories. These buildings symbolize our focus on providing the best education possible.”

Benson emphasized UTD’s strong ties to industry and applied research, a foundational aspect of the university since its creation in the 1960s. “It would be our greatest honor to continue writing the exciting story of UT Dallas with the bright men and women of Africa,” Benson concluded.

John Gonzalez, the team lead from the University of Texas at Dallas, explained that the office aims to create a hub for collaboration among scholars and researchers from UTD and Nigeria. “We are excited about the opportunities this office will create for Nigerians and Africans in general. It will harness the abundant talents of youths for development in Nigeria,” Gonzalez said.

Cavista Patners With University Of Texas At Dallas.

Cavista Patners With University Of Texas At Dallas.

Last Thursday, the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) opened its African liaison office in Lagos, Nigeria, located within the Cavista office in Ilupeju. This collaboration aims to facilitate access to world-class education for Nigerian students, streamline admission processes, and build global connections.

At the launch event, Cavista Chairman John Olajide emphasized how the office would create incredible opportunities for millions of young people in Nigeria and across Africa. He stated, “This is about more than just education; it’s about building strong relationships and fostering experiences that will benefit our students across Africa for life.”

UTD President Richard Benson expressed gratitude and excitement for this partnership, highlighting UTD’s commitment to providing top-tier education to students worldwide, particularly from Africa. He shared how UTD’s ties to industry giants like Texas Instruments have fueled their growth and innovation, making them a hub for global talent. Also, at the event, are the U.S. Consul-General, Ambassador Will Stevens, and other diplomatic and business dignitaries.

The Cavista team is thrilled about the incredible impact of this partnership on education and development in Nigeria and beyond. Here’s to a future filled with learning, growth, and endless possibilities!

Arewa Community Leader, Umar Mohammad Appeals for Calm and Support for Tinubu Administration.

Arewa Community Leader, Umar Mohammad Appeals for Calm and Support for Tinubu Administration.

...Urges Hausa Community in the Southern part of Nigeria to Shun Protests Against President Tinubu.

In his statement in Osogbo. Alhaji Umar Mohammad, the former Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Oyetola on Non-Indigenous Affairs and also a chairman Arewa Community APC of 17 southern states Osun State chapter has implored the Hausas community in the Southern region to refrain from participating in any protests against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking in Osun State, Umar emphasized the importance of unity and support for the current administration's efforts towards agribusiness development and overall economic growth.

Addressing members of the Arewa Conservative Forum, Mohammad urged the Hausa community to have faith in President Tinubu's administration. He highlighted Tinubu's vision for advancing agribusiness, which he believes will significantly contribute to Nigeria's economic progress. "We must support the government's initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth and development across the nation," he stated.

In Pic Alhaji Umar Mohammad. 

Umar's call for unity comes at a time of heightened political tension in various parts of the country. He stressed that Nigeria's development should transcend tribal lines, advocating for a unified approach to nation-building. "Our country can only thrive when we stand together, regardless of our tribal differences," he said.

Furthermore, he advised the Hausa people in Osun State and beyond to continue with their daily activities in compliance with the laws and regulations of the country. "It is essential for the Hausa community to remain law-abiding and focus on their everyday business and lifestyle," he added.

Umar also assured the Hausa community in Osun State that better days are ahead, urging them to be patient with the current situation in the state. He expressed optimism that the state's glory would be restored with the All Progressives Congress (APC) taking over the government. "The time of restoration and development is coming back to Osun State very soon. The glory of the state will be restored when APC takes over, and I promise you that all your lost properties will be recovered and restored," he assured.

In conclusion, Alhaji Umar Mohammad's message to the Hausa community in the Southern part of Nigeria is one of patience, unity, and faith in the Tinubu administration's capacity to drive economic growth and development. He called for collective support towards the government's efforts, emphasizing that Nigeria's prosperity depends on the unity and cooperation of its diverse communities.

Ekiti State Indigenes At Nigerian Law Schools To Get N150k Bursary Award Each.

Ekiti State Indigenes At Nigerian Law Schools To Get N150k Bursary Award Each.

Ekiti State Government will be disbursing bursary award worth #29,400,000 to 196 Ekiti indigenes at the  Nigerian Law Schools (Bar 1) for 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions.

In a statement issued by the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Scholarship Board, Mrs Bukola Faluyi, the disbursement of the bursary award is in tandem with the Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji's vision to encourage academic excellence among students of Ekiti State Origin.

 It is on this note that, the Governor has graciouslly  approved the payment of the bursary award being one of the several   steps to support his shared prosperity agenda of Human Capital Development.

The flag-off ceremony will hold on Tuesday 23rd July, 2024 at the Conference Hall of the Ministry  of Education by 10 am prompt. The event will be presided over by Ekiti State Commissioner for Education , Dr Olabimpe Aderiye mni. 

All the recipients of the bursary award are expected to be seated  by 9:30 a.m.

LAND GRABBERS TO LAND IN PRISON, SAYS EKITI SPEAKER.

LAND GRABBERS TO LAND IN PRISON, SAYS EKITI SPEAKER.

....as assembly passes law with stiffer penalties.

The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye says the end of the road is near for land grabbers and quack estate surveyors as the House of Assembly has prescribed five years imprisonment for culpable ones.

Aribasoye in his remarks at the house plenary on Thursday where the Ekiti State Property Protection (Anti-Land Grabbing) (Second Amendment) Bill, 2024 was passed into law, said the 7th assembly frowns at all forms of anti people activities or practices in any part of the state. 

The bill was sponsored by Hon. Oluwayomi Ayorinde representing Ido/Osi constituency two and Co-sponsored by Hon. Lateef Oluwole Akanle representing Ekiti East two.

In addition to the five (5) years imprisonment, ten percent(10%) of the value of the land in question will be paid as fine by offenders while the victim would be empowered to recover the purchase price for the land, as the case may be. 

The speaker described as criminal and annoying, the activities of land grabbers popularly called 'omo onile' who would sell land to a buyer and later throw the buyer into trouble by presenting another family head who would compel a fresh payment if the property would not be revoked.

Aribasoye noted that the criminal elements do sell one piece of land or property to two or more buyers thus creating tension, crisis and losses among affected parties. 

He said it was unfortunate that both helpless citizens and highly placed personalities in the state, including lawmakers have been swindled by the land grabbers and fraudulent families who are custodians of such lands. 

The Ekiti speaker maintained that the house remained fully committed to ensuring laws that permanently address the menace of land-grabbing in the State adding that such laws would empower the government to tackle the activities of land grabbers and quack estate surveyors and estate agents.