Daurama Foundation Premieres Compelling Advocacy Film ‘Voices Within’ as Part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Daurama Foundation Premieres Compelling Advocacy Film ‘Voices Within’ as Part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. 

Daurama Foundation proudly announces the premiere of Voices Within, a powerful short film that sheds light on domestic and gender-based violence. Produced by Take 7 Media and directed by Bem Pever, with screenplay by Mahdi Eldaw and Emil Garuba, this evocative film forms a key part of Daurama Foundation’s initiatives for the annual 16 Days of Activism, a global campaign to end violence against women and girls. The premiere will take place at Silver Bird Cinema, Jabi Lake Mall, Abuja, on November 30, 2024, at 4:00 pm. 

Voices Within tells the story of a young girl who witnesses a tragic cycle of abuse at home and turns to writing as an escape. Through her storytelling, she finds the strength to express her pain and resilience while dreaming of a safer world. Her story also unveils her mother’s plight—a survivor of abuse who, due to a childhood disability, is unable to defend herself physically. This moving narrative amplifies the voices of those often unheard, encouraging audiences to stand in solidarity against violence. 

The cast features a talented ensemble of Nigerian actors, with standout performances by Grace Daudu, Mbasity Jesse, Tolu Asanu, Franca Igwe, Lanzy Janpak, Hoomsuk Alex Jibrin, Austin Mangs, and Senenge Abela. Dr. Samira Buhari, Executive Producer and Chair of Daurama Foundation, shares that Voices Within embodies the Foundation’s commitment to empowering women and fostering communities that advocate against violence. 

Daurama Foundation is a Nigerian non-governmental organisation focused on improving health outcomes and advocating for the rights of women and girls through education, outreach, and community engagement. Their work addresses critical issues affecting women’s and girls' well-being, developing programs and resources that combat domestic violence and provide a pathway forward for survivors. 

“The release of Voices Within marks an important milestone in our mission to not only raise awareness but also inspire action. We invite the public, stakeholders, and community members to attend this premiere, be moved by the story, and join us in saying ‘no more’ to gender-based violence,” said Dr. Samira Buhari. For those committed to creating a safer and more inclusive world, Voices Within is a call to action. These premiere promises to be a transformative event that unites communities in the fight against domestic violence and gender-based violence.

Economic Crisis: Ekiti Deputy Gov Distributes Palliatives to 500 Vulnerable Citizens.

Economic Crisis: Ekiti Deputy Gov Distributes Palliatives to 500 Vulnerable Citizens.

….Says Oyebanji’s policies favour poor masses.

To back the anti-Poverty policy of the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has distributed cash, farm implements and food palliatives to over 500 vulnerable groups in Ikere Local Government Area of the State to buffer the effect of the hard biting economy on them.

Mrs Afuye posited that the social security gesture, was targeted at upscaling and spread the safety net of the robust anti-poverty initiatives being rolled out by his boss to make lives more abundant for Ekiti citizens.

Amid cheers and expression of love to Governor Oyebanji’s government, the palliatives were distributed to the beneficiaries across the 11 Wards in the Council, with special focus on the aged, physically challenged, sick, widows and other categories of vulnerable population.

Interacting with the beneficiaries, Mrs Afuye, said no effort will be spared by Oyebanji’s administration to mitigate poverty among the masses, especially the grassroots, at this period of economic crisis being witnessed across the nation.

The Deputy Governor added that the Governor, had demonstrated commitment to making lives more abundant for the poor masses and economically weak citizens, through commercial farming for the youths, employment generation, conditional cash grant, trader moni, promotion of small and medium scale enterprises, among other innovations.

Mrs Afuye maintained that the life-changing policies of Governor Oyebanji were specifically tailored to favour the poor masses to foster equilibrium in the system and narrow the gap between the rich and poor.

The Deputy Governor promised that she would continue to spearhead regular social security interventions in the council to complement what Governor Oyebanji was devising at the state level to ramp up social inclusion and reduce poverty in the state.

“You could all attest to the fact that Governor Oyebanji has done well in the areas of poverty reduction, infrastructures, industrial development, agriculture, rural development, human capital development, arts and culture and governance, where security was a pivotal component.

“Before now, I have been giving N5,000 monthly stipend to 10 selected categories of people from each of the 11 Wards in Ikere Local Government. I decided to add food palliatives and farm implements to help in reducing the negative effect of astronomic increase in food prices.

“What we are doing today is a consolidation of our past efforts and strides to expand the scope of actions being devised by Governor Oyebanji to actualise the shared prosperity focus of his government.

“I want you to continue to support this government at both state and federal levels. What is happening now is going to be a temporary suffering, things shall come to normal very soon”, she assured.

Mrs Afuye directed the Ward Chairmen to always remember and capture the physically challenged and the aged people, who are also voters and committed members of the town.

Speaking at the occasion, the Special Adviser on Women and Gender Empowerment, Mrs Kemi Olaleye, saluted Mrs Afuye for the gesture, saying it will help in cushioning the economic pains on the poor masses.

Mrs Olaleye appealed to those not captured in the scheme to exercise patience, assuring that the dividends of democracy shall surely get to their doorsteps under Oyebanji’s impressive and people-centric leadership.

The Chairmen of Ikere LG, Hon Olu Adamolekun and Ikere West LCDA, Hon Rufus Olorunfemi, were full of praises for the Deputy Governor, saying the gesture will help in alleviating poverty and reduce neglect at the grassroots.

The APC Chairman in Ikere Local Government, Hon Kayode Oyebode, the Chairmen of Atiba/Aafin Ward, Hon. Olu Orekunrin, and Oke Osun Ward, Hon. Albert Ajakaye, commended the Governor and his Deputy for placing high premium on the welfare of Ekiti populace to strengthen the concept of inclusive governance.

Some of the beneficiaries: Felicia Magbagbe, Asana Sola, Afolabi Matilda, Oluwaponle Felicia, Ayodele Victoria, Afolabi Ojo, Okpe Sunday, Ogoji Esther, Boluwaji Beatrice, Aluko Folakemi, and Esther Rawa, described the intervention as timely and came at a time when there was rising prices of food commodities in the market.

They appreciated the Oyebanji’s welfarist approach to governance, disclosing that the action will help in putting a soothing balm on their pains at this critical time.

On the Deputy Governor’s entourage are: Ikere Local Government Chairman, Hon. Olu Adamolekun , his counterpart in Ikere West LCDA, Hon. Rufus Olorunfemi, Special Adviser on Women and Gender Empowerment, Chief Kemi Olaleye, the All Progressives Congress Senatorial Chairman in Ekiti South, Hon. Akindele Akinbobola, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr Victor Adeniyi, Special Assistants, among others.

Ondo guber election: Oyebanji rallies Ekiti indigenes’ support for Ayedatiwa.

Ondo guber election: Oyebanji rallies Ekiti indigenes’ support for Ayedatiwa.

As part of efforts towards ensuring victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Mr Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa in Saturday’s Ondo Governorship polls, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has called on all Ekiti indigenes in Ondo state to vote for Ayedatiwa and return him as Governor of the state.

Governor Oyebanji, who said this during a solidarity rally held for the election of Governor Ayedatiwa in Akure on Tuesday. He expressed his assurance that Governor Ayedatiwa will sweep the votes in all the 18 local government of the state through a landslide victory.

While expressing his appreciation to all Ekiti indigenes in Ondo state for raising their united voice and their decision to endorse Ayedatiwa as the candidate to be voted for at the election, the Governor said he was in Ondo state with the paraphernalia of his government and party faithful including the Deputy Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju, Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, members of the state House of Assembly, Executive Council, local government Chairmen and APC party apparatus, mainly to dialogue with them and canvass for their unflinching support at the election that will help Ayedatiwa in securing victory.

He affirmed that since Ayedatiwa became governor a few months ago, no stone had been left unturned in the drive to bring unrivalled and remarkable development to the State.

Governor Oyebanji also used the opportunity to inform the electorates in Ondo state that returning Ayedatiwa as Governor would be a confirmation of the fact that President Tinubu is still highly loved, respected and recognized our beloved  leader in the southwest.

He commended Ekiti people for collecting their voters’ card as a weapon to win the election on Saturday, adding that their support for him during his election was well appreciated, just as he also appreciated all aspirants that contested the APC primary election in Ondo state for staying in the party to form a united force against opposition.

The Governor affirmed that the election will show the love southwest has for the president and former governor of the state, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu. Noting that it's important to win convincingly. 

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He added that the party has a duty to keep Ondo state within the progressive fold as he described Ayedatiwa as the most prepared and fit candidate for the job to enable him continue with the good works.

"I appreciate all of you for honouring our invitation and your support for us during our election in Ekiti state, this is the first time I am meeting you after the election, I am extremely grateful.

In his welcome address, Chief Jide Awe appreciated all Ekiti descendants in Ondo state and commended the Governor for setting up a committee to interact with all Ekiti descendants in the 18 LGAs of the state with the aim of supporting Ayedatiwa to win the election.

Chief Jide Awe said that the Governor has also approved regular meeting with them as he urged them to be part of government and support it so that they benefit from the dividend of democracy in Ondo state.

In his remarks, APC chairman in Ondo state, Engr. Ade Adetimehin thanked Governor Oyebanji for his leadership qualities noting that Ekiti and Ondo states have always been one.

Delivering the message from the governor, Adetimehin expressed the appreciation of Governor Ayedatiwa to all Ekiti people for their support for the APC in Ondo state as he promised to reciprocate the gesture during Ekiti Governorship election in the next two years.

HIV/AIDS: Ekiti to end mother to child transmission.

HIV/AIDS: Ekiti to end mother to child transmission.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has restated his resolve to bring an end to mother to child transmission of HIV/ AIDS in the state through effective collaboration with National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) and other stakeholders in the health sector.

This is to ensure that no child is born with the virus and to further reduce the HIV/AIDS prevalence rate in the state. 

Governor Oyebanji disclosed this on Monday evening, while playing host to the Director-General of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori and her team during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s office in Ado- Ekiti. 

The Governor said his government will be more intentional and strategic in its drive and intervention towards preventing and eliminating mother to child transmission as a way of bridging the infection gaps among newborns in the state.

He stated further that the state government had always being committed to steps that have reduced the pandemic in the state.

“If you follow comments on Ekiti State, we have done a lot of things in that sector to ensure that we work in respect to their welfare and availability of health facilities and consumables across the state. We are actually punching beyond our weight in that sector.

“I am happy on the emphasis in reducing transmission from mother to child, it is very critical, yes, the prevalent rate may be low here, but the transmission from mother to child, we need to watch that. Whatever we need to do, we will do, because, it is in our interest to keep our people healthy and also protect the unborn children from contacting this disease. The Governor said.

Governor Oyebanji also promised to rejig and strengthen Local Action Committee on AIDS (LACA) at the local government level in the drive to ensure that the grassroots is effectively combed, adding that state government will ensure the establishment of HIV Testing Services in the 16 local government areas as a gateway to HIV prevention, treatment, care and other support services.

Earlier, the Director-General of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori lamented the huge burden of children born with HIV/AIDS through transmission from mother to child and stressed the urgent need to end the menace of pediatric HIV in every part of Nigeria. 

She said despite the huge resources committed to ending the HIV/ AIDS scourge over the years, the country is still lagging behind as it contributes about 25 percent of the global population of children born with HIV.

Dr Ilori also stressed the need to strengthen collaboration with the state government in order to further bring down the prevalence. 

While lauding the Ekiti State Government for recording  the least prevalence in Nigeria, the NACA boss also called for the involvement of religious leaders, traditional rulers as well as the traditional and new media to totally eradicate the scourge in the state.

Also at the meeting were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Oyebanji Filani and officials of NACA and SACA.

Sasere Festival 2024: Chief Faleye Celebrates Egungun Festivity Amidst Funfair.

Sasere Festival 2024: Chief Faleye Celebrates Egungun Festivity Amidst Funfair.

The Chief Olatunbosun David Faleye, The Sasere of Igede Ekiti Kingdom, recently celebrated the esteemed Egungun Sasere traditional festival. This annual event, held in Igede-Ekiti, headquarters of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government of Ekiti State, Nigeria, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the kingdom.

The Sasere Festival spanned three days, packed with diverse activities. The first day began with the traditional feast of roasted yam with palm oil (Isu sunsun pelu epo pupa), accompanied by vibrant drumming and dancing around the town. This signaled the commencement of the festival. On the second day, sacrifices were offered to Ogun, Esu, Ifa, Obatala, Oranmiyan, Ake, Osun, and Elemi. This included the killing of dogs for Ogun, male goats and hens for Esu Lanroye, and a big pig and hen for Ifa. The rituals were accompanied by chanting and rendering of eulogies (Oriki) with energetic dancing to the rhythm of agogo ilu.

The third day was the climax of the festival. Egungun Sasere descended from Oke-Esu, moving to Ege Inisa Compound to seek permission before proceeding to the town. The revered masquerade then visited Onigede Palace to bless His Royal Majesty Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II JP, "Petu Bi Owuro", The Onigede of Igede Ekiti Kingdom. The Egungun was assured of blessings and progress for Igede-Ekiti's sons and daughters by the powerful Mighty of Eledumare. Egungun Sasere subsequently processed through Igede-Ekiti metropolis, bestowing blessings upon individuals, particularly those seeking fertility and solutions to challenges.

Chief Olatunbosun David Faleye, The Sasere of Igede Ekiti Kingdom, expressed heartfelt gratitude to sons and daughters of Igede Ekiti, friends, and well-wishers who attended the festival. He wished them safe travels and looked forward to the next year's celebration. With the festival's success, the kingdom eagerly anticipates another year of prosperity and blessings. _Aku Odun, Aku Iyedun!_ (Happy Festival, Happy Year!)

EKITI GOVERNMENT TARGETS INDIGENOUS ARTISANS, SUPPLIERS FOR ATIKANKAN URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT.

EKITI GOVERNMENT TARGETS INDIGENOUS ARTISANS, SUPPLIERS FOR ATIKANKAN URBAN RENEWAL PROJECT.

.....as DG Office of Local Content urges skilled workers in the state to deliver on any area they are engaged.

The Director, Bureau of Local Content, Ekiti State, Olalekan Ijidale has revealed that government will engage indigenous artisans and suppliers registered under the office for the proposed urban renewal project in Atikankan area of Ado Ekiti.

Speaking with newsmen in Ado Ekiti, the DG affirmed that such plans were part of strategies by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to give the people sense of belongs and boost the economy of the state. His Excellency, the Governor of Ekiti state has directed that the Local artisans and private sector should be given priority in the project

He noted that the era of importing artisans from  other African countries to carry out projects is gone.

He said: the clearing of Atikankan recently is to give room for the construction of another ultra modern trade park and such would be done by Ekiti people.

"I want to assure artisans and suppliers who have registered with us to deliver a good job if engaged,  we are going to make use of our people for this project.

When you give job to our youths, you are indirectly promoting local economy and shifting their attention away from crime.

Ijidale however called on skilled workers in Ekiti State to make themselves available and also deliver every project assign to them diligently so as to justify the confidence of government in them.

He noted that government would continue to create enabling environment for entrepreneurs and skilled workers to operate successfully.

Celebrating Owoeye Olatunji: A Visionary Leader and Trailblazer.

Celebrating Owoeye Olatunji: A Visionary Leader and Trailblazer.

In the landscape of modern Nigeria, few names resonate with the legacies of dedication, leadership, and innovation as vividly as that of Owoeye Olatunji. A seasoned professional in the fields of accounting, finance, and agribusiness, Owoeye epitomizes excellence and integrity—a beacon of hope for the advancement of Nigerian industries.

With a formidable academic foundation earned from the esteemed University of Ife, now known as Obafemi Awolowo University, Owoeye seamlessly transitioned into the world of finance, becoming a Chartered Accountant and subsequently a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. His academic accolades reflect a lifelong commitment to learning and professional growth.

For over three decades, Owoeye has carved a niche for himself as a result-driven leader and industrialist. As the Founder and Group Managing Director of Elephant Group PLC, he has presided over a multifaceted enterprise, with an impressive footprint in food production. With numerous factories dedicated to the production of rice and flour, Owoeye's vision has not only advanced his business but has also significantly contributed to food security in Nigeria and beyond.

Owoeye's influence extends well beyond business; he has been a trailblazer in the production and distribution of agricultural inputs and fertilizers across Nigeria and Central and West Africa. By championing these essential resources, he has played a crucial role in enhancing agricultural productivity and supporting the livelihoods of countless farmers.

His leadership roles in various agricultural associations reflect his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the agribusiness community. From serving as the National President of the Nigeria Cashew Association to his position as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, he has fervently advocated for policies that bolster Nigeria’s agricultural sector. His work has had far-reaching implications, shaping economic policies that resonate throughout the continent.

Owoeye's participation with the World Economic Forum’s Grow Africa team and as an Executive member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group further underscores his pivotal role in addressing pressing economic issues facing Nigeria and Africa at large. His strategic input and insights have proven invaluable in formulating policies that promote sustainable agricultural practices and drive economic growth.

Yet, what truly sets Owoeye apart is not just his professional prowess but his deep-rooted commitment to service and community development. As an Ambassador for the National Schools Agriculture Program, he passionately advocates for agricultural education, ensuring that the next generation is equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an evolving economic landscape.

Beyond his professional accolades, Owoeye is a family man, married and devoted to his children—a testament to his belief in the importance of nurturing future leaders in every sphere of life.

In every endeavor, Owoeye Olatunji stands as a testament to what it means to lead with purpose, vision, and unwavering integrity. His contributions are not merely accolades; they are the building blocks of a more prosperous and sustainable future for Nigeria and Africa. For all those inspired by his journey, his story is a call to action—a reminder that commitment to excellence and service can change communities and transform industries. We celebrate Owoeye as a visionary leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.