Speaker Famuyibo Leads the Charge for Lagos State Youth Initiatives, Collaborates with Commissioner Ogunlende; Governor Sanwoolu Nominated to Chair National Inauguration.

Speaker Famuyibo Leads the Charge for Lagos State Youth Initiatives, Collaborates with Commissioner Ogunlende; Governor Sanwoolu Nominated to Chair National Inauguration.

In a significant move towards enhancing youth development in Nigeria, Rt. Hon. (Amb.) Oluwasegun Famuyibo, Speaker of the Youth Assembly of Nigeria (YAN), met with Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, yesterday at the Commissioner’s Alausa office. This meeting, aimed at fostering collaboration between YAN and the Lagos State government, marks a pivotal moment for the empowerment of young people in the region.

The discussions between Speaker Famuyibo and Commissioner Ogunlende yielded promising prospects for partnership, aligning with YAN’s upcoming National Convention set for Thursday, February 27, 2024, at the Sheraton Hotel in Abuja. YAN is eagerly eyeing Governor Babajide Sanwoolu to take the chair at this landmark event, recognizing his commitment to youth-friendly policies and his proactive approach to engaging young people in governance.

“Governor Sanwoolu stands out as a leader who genuinely prioritizes youth development through his various policies and appointments,” Rt. Hon. Famuyibo emphasized. “We believe that his wisdom and passion for empowering youth will greatly benefit our national inauguration and resonate beyond Lagos to the entire Southwest and Nigeria.”

The Youth Assembly of Nigeria serves as a vital platform for youth engagement, fostering dialogue, advocacy, and action designed to empower young individuals. It operates with a mission to nurture future leaders through workshops, mentorship programs, and community service projects across education, health, and environmental sustainability.

In attendance at the national convention alongside Governor Sanwoolu are expected dignitaries, including Ekiti State Governor H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, His Excellency Dr. Bello Matawalle, Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Mr. Mofid Karameh, Chairman, Mikano International Limited, as well as other prominent leaders and organizations that support youth initiatives. The Honorable Minister for Youth Development, Hon. Olawande Ayodele, will serve as Chief Host of this momentous event.

As YAN continues to advocate for the interests of young people at various governmental levels, the organization remains committed to creating positive changes and enhancing civic participation among the youth throughout the country.

Youth in Agriculture: Oyebanji doles out N140million to young farmers.

Youth in Agriculture: Oyebanji doles out N140million to young farmers.

….Restates plan for massive food production in 2025.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has disbursed cheques worth N140million to youths engaged in commercial agriculture for the first batch of their harvest. 

The young farmers were drawn from the six farm clusters in the state under the “Bring Back The Youth in Agriculture” programme of the state government in partnership with YSJ Farms Limited. 

Presenting the cheques to the young farmers on Monday at Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Ado- Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji noted the widespread food shortage experienced across the country and globally this year, stressing that his government’s efforts in this direction would promote farming activities as well as spur the youths’ interests in commercial agriculture, with attendant financial and economic opportunities.

The Governor assured the youths that he was already liaising with investors who will provide tractors for hiring in order to effectively boost their production capacity, adding that the strategy of the state government is not to buy tractors, but to create an enabling environment for investors to bring tractors to the state to lease to farmers.

He cautioned some elements in the Ministry of Agriculture who constitute a cog in the wheel of progress in the sector to desist from their nefarious tendencies and support the zeal of government to reposition agriculture and improve on the food security agenda of government.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji told the excited youths that his government, had in the last 48 hours,  injected N300million into the economy of the state, which he said was in line with the shared prosperity and wealth creation agenda. 

While tasking the youths to make judicious use of the money, for effective implementation of the aims and objectives of the initiative by plowing back some of their proceeds into next year’s agriculture season with the hope of a favourable weather. 

Governor Oyebanji who hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the financial support to the state, said with the support of the President, efforts are in top gear to build Renewed Hope Farm settlements in all the farm clusters in the state.

“If we are going to develop agriculture and create wealth, we have to be extremely deliberate about our procurement process. On Saturday, I was in Oke Ako, we distributed about N160million compensation to farmers whose lands were taken over six months ago and the crop planted then are already being harvested. 

“I have listened to your challenges regarding accommodation, I promised you that we will provide that. The  old Awolowo farm settlement is what we are renovating, but in our budget next year, we have plan to do at least six farm settlements. With that you can leave your home go to the farm, when you are tired, you have somewhere to rest. 

 “For those that are collecting money today, I say congratulations and I am happy because you have seen the challenges and you are here today to eat the fruits of your labour, I know that what we passed through this year is not what we will pass through next year. He said.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluade thanked the Governor for his various efforts aimed at ensuring that Ekiti people are removed from the league of poverty-stricken states with the new initiative of Agri-preneur aimed at creating  jobs in the sector for 10,000 youths and getting them out of poverty.

The Commissioner also revealed that at the Broiler farm, the state was at the verge of realizing N80 million  within four cycles of breeding. He called on the youths to know that agriculture is a vocation that needs a lot of patience before the yields and the rewards start to materialize.

Some of the youths, Mr Johnson Owoeye from Gede; Adeyeye Micheal from Oke Ako; Michael Mayowa from Iyemero and Owolewa Samuel from Ekiti west shared their experiences, acknowledged and commended the governor for the initiative and for providing necessary impetus for them to thrive in the business saying they now have very bright future in the state.

Also, the Chief Executive of YSJ, Mrs Yemisi Joluwe commended Ekiti youths for their resilience, commitment and determination to succeed in the business saying that their efforts have shown that Ekiti youths are not lazy.

Also at the event were the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the state executive council, members of the State House of Assembly, Chairman, Council of Traditional rulers and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Faboro among others.

COMMERCIAL AGRIC: OYEBANJI PRESENTS N146 MILLION COMPENSATION CHEQUES TO 46 LANDOWNERS AT OKE AKO.

COMMERCIAL AGRIC: OYEBANJI PRESENTS N146 MILLION COMPENSATION  CHEQUES TO 46 LANDOWNERS AT OKE AKO.

...Lists Ecomomic Gains of utilizing land for agriculture.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Saturday handed out cheques to the tune of N146 million as compensation to 46 indigenes of Oke Ako Ekiti whose land were acquired for commercial agriculture. 

A total 4,000 hectares of land was allocated to young farmers in the “Bring Back the Youth in Agriculture” scheme done in partnership with an investor, YSP Farm in Oke Ako. The project is aimed at boosting agribusiness, engage youths in commercial agriculture and open up the community and its environs for wealth creation.

Also, different range of tractors and processing equipment were inaugurated by the Governor for use by the young farmers. 

The event coincided with the dry season harvest by the participants in the “Bring Back Youths in Agriculture” programme of the state government in partnership with YSJ Farms Limited. 

Speaking shortly before distributing the cheques, Governor Oyebanji said he was satisfied with the takeoff of the agribusiness project despite the initial delay witnessed in a bid to resolve some issues around land acquisition.

He explained that the payment of the compensation was delayed to allow for the conclusion of enumeration of economic trees that were affected by the acquisition noting that the second round of the enumeration exercise would soon commence to pay compensation to more landowners.”

While noting that Oke Ako is an integral part of the Ekiti State Special Agriculture Processing, the Governor stressed that the centre is a great economic asset capable of becoming a hub for training of tractor drivers, assembling and repairs of tractors with expatriates on ground to train the youths.

The Governor lauded the Oke Ako community led by the Regent, Princess Tinuade Ogunbiyi for their cooperation with his administration, said commercial agricultural activities would attract rehabilitation and reconstruction of roads, provision of health facilities and establishment of cottage industries capable of turning around the economy of the axis.

The Governor charged the people of the area to support YSJ Farms Limited led by Mrs. Yemisi Joluwe, who is partnering with the state government on the agriculture development project. 

He explained that his administration would always provide the enabling environment for investment opportunities,empowerment of the youths and development of the grassroots economy to thrive in every part of the state.

The Governor also noted that kidnapping and other criminal activities have reduced remarkably in the area as most of the forests that served as hideouts have been cultivated under the agribusiness scheme involving the youths. 

"What we are doing here today is another promise we have kept in ensuring that compensation is paid to our citizens whose land were acquired for commercial agricultural purposes.

"We are paying them the compensation for the economic trees lost to the acquisition process and for them to use the money to get another land for the continuation of their farming so that they will not be denied of their means of livelihood.

"For development to get to any place, it will be accompanied with some pains. It's just like a woman who is giving birth to a baby, she will have to endure  pain after which the pain will be overshadowed by the joy of the birth of a new baby.

"Before we remove the remaining economic trees, we will pay compensation to the owners and the presence of large scale commercial farming will bring many positive things. Factories, schools and hospitals will spring up here while we can also have tractor assembling and engineering hub." 

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the commitment of the Governor made the payment of compensation possible.

He added that the personal appearance of the Governor bore eloquent testimony to his commitment to the growth of agriculture and ensuring food security in the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Survey and e-GIS, Prof. James Olaleye, said the sacrifices of the landowners would go a long way in turning Ekiti into a leading agricultural centre in Nigeria.

He pointed out that the Bureau of Lands under his watch has been working tirelessly to ensure that land administration practices align with the vision of economic growth and food security. 

The Regent of Oke Ako, Princess Ogunbiyi, hailed the Governor for attracting the investor to the community pledging the unflinching support of her people to the smooth operations of the farms.

Fayemi hails Ghana on election, calls on African political actors to emulate its politics.

Fayemi hails Ghana on election, calls on African political actors to emulate its politics.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, has congratulated Ghana's President-elect, John Mahama, on his victory in the country's recent general elections.

Mr. John Mahama, Ghana's President-elect.

In a statement, Dr. Fayemi also commended Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the incumbent New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his gracious concession speech, noting that ‘’his acceptance of the electoral outcome in the spirit of peace and national unity exemplifies the very best of African political leadership.’’

Fayemi noted that Ghana had become a model of democracy for Africa, emphasizing the importance of respecting the will of the people and the supremacy of democratic principles.

Fayemi said: ‘’As a friend to both men and a committed advocate of democratic principles across Africa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the President-Elect of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, on his resounding victory in the recently concluded general elections. This triumph reflects the trust and confidence the people of Ghana have in his leadership and vision for their country.

‘’I equally commend Dr. Mahamamudu Bawumia, presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his gracious concession speech. His acceptance of the electoral outcome in the spirit of peace and national unity exemplifies the very best of African political leadership. 

‘’Dr. Bawumia’s decision to place the interest of Ghana above personal ambition reinforces the values of democracy and demonstrates a maturity that will undoubtedly serve as a model for political actors across the continent. 

‘’As Africans, we must draw lessons from Ghana's example. The supremacy of the people’s will is the cornerstone of democracy and the desire to serve must always align with the mandate freely given by the electorate, not through coercion or manipulation. 

‘’Ghana has set high standards by proving that democracy can thrive in Africa when institutions are allowed to function independently and political actors prioritize the collective good over individual aspirations.

‘’As Nigeria and other African nations continue to strengthen their democratic foundations, the Ghanaian experience provides a blueprint for conducting elections that are credible, peaceful, and reflective of the people's choice.

‘’I therefore urge all political actors across the continent to emulate the exemplary conduct displayed by both President-Elect Mahama and Dr. Bawumia, who through their actions have deepened the democratic culture in their country and solidified its position as a beacon of hope and a model for democracy in Africa.’’

Our target is funding recurrent expenditure with IGR - Oyebanji.

Our target is funding recurrent expenditure with IGR - Oyebanji.

…Commissions Ikole Area Tax Office.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated the commitment of his administration to strengthening the revenue generation capacity of the state to enable it fund the recurrent expenditure through internally generated revenue without inflicting pains on the citizens.

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this in Ikole Ekiti on Saturday while commissioning the new Ekiti State Internal revenue Service Area Tax Office in Ikole -Ekiti, said his government is committed to building a self-sustaining economy where the state can fund its recurrent expenditure without over-reliance on federal allocation.

The commissioning of the new tax office, according to him is a step towards achieving the goal of making the state less dependent on federal allocation.

The Governor described the opening of the new tax office as a strategic initiative to decentralize revenue collection and ensure efficiency in tax administration.

Emphasizing the importance of IGR as a sustainable source of funding government operations, particularly in the face of dwindling federal allocation, Governor Oyebanji explained that he has been able to fulfill almost all his campaign promises because of the remarkable increase in the state IGR.

While commending the State Internal Revenue Service for its effort in increasing the state’s revenue base, the Governor urged the agency to intensify its sensitization campaigns to educate residents that payment of tax is their civic duty.

He added that the funds generated will be used to provide critical infrastructure and improve the standard of living in the state.

"Our  target by the grace of God is that we should be able to fund out recurrent from IGR, that’s the target. We should be able to pay workers’ salaries from IGR, if we are able to fund our recurrent with IGR whatever comes from FAAC we can use for development, that’s the target and it is doable and am happy that the little you are paying, you call all see what we are doing with it in the state”

“when I was coming, I was asking myself that of all the campaign promises we made to our people which one have I done and I was happy within myself answering the question myself because I discovered we have done a lot to the glory of God. We have been able to activate those promises” either in education, agric, health, infrastructure, governance, and human capital development”. The Governor asserted 

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service, Mr Olatana Olaniran, commended the Governor for his dedication to utilizing public funds effectively, which has now fostered trust and compliance among tax payers.

He noted that the various ongoing developmental projects across the state have made it easier to convince residents to pay their taxes, as they can visibly see the impact of their contributions.

While calling the people to put more efforts at embracing their civic duty by paying their taxes promptly and regularly, the EKIRS Chairman emphasized that a prosperous and self-reliant state depends on the collective responsibility of its citizens.

Also at the event were, Commissioner of Information, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Agric, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, DG Bureau of Public Procure, James Foloruneo, Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs Adetoun Agboola; Director General Bureau of Assets Management , Chairman Ikole LG, Hon Omobola Bayo, among others.

I Won't Be Distracted by Second Term Endorsements- Oyebanji.

I Won't Be Distracted by Second Term Endorsements- Oyebanji.

....as more group endorses Oyebanji ahead of 2026.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has disclosed that the series of second term endorsements by interest groups won't serve as distractions to his performance and implementation of lofty policies that can transform the lives of the populace. 

Oyebanji, who applauded the  groundswell of endorsements being accorded him, said his administration has done exceedingly well by fulfilling  electioneering promises to the people in the implementation of the six point agenda that has been the compass of development.

The governor spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Saturday, while being endorsed for second term by a group under the auspices of Progressive Grassroots Development and Support Foundation. 

Speaking at the political event, Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs. Monisade Christianah Afuye, assured the people that the gale of endorsements will catalyse his spirit and commitment to serve the people better.

Oyebanji urged the members of the group to participate in the voting registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission to be eligible to vote during election, describing this as the best way to make their support potent and effective ahead of 2026. 

"What you are doing today is part of your democratic right as enshrined in the Constitution.  But let me assure you that the series of endorsements that have been given to our dear governor would  be a source of inspiration and not distractions to us. 

"We are going to rededicate ourselves and become more focused to deliver democracy dividends to our people wherever they may be. 

"I feel honoured that several interest groups have come out openly to endorse Governor Oyebanji for second term even when the government has just got to the middle of its first term. This buttressed the fact that we have worked hard to gain the trust of the people", Oyebanji said.

Maintaining that the endorsements were not misplaced,  Oyebanji posited that his government has worked round the clock to provide security and good governance, saying  the occasional cases of insecurity being witnessed, had been responded to adequately to ensure safety of lives and property.

Cataloguing the government strides geared toward adding value to the lives of the citizens, Oyebanji, said just recently, he approved  N70,000 as  Minimum Wage for workers, assuring that the  implementation will begin from December 1, 2024, besides prompt payment of salaries, deductions, pensions and gratuities.

"We have  demonstrated enough commitments to job creation and youth development. In the last two years, over 4,000 youths had been employed into the state civil service, while over 20,000 productive population  had been gainfully engaged in agriculture, skills acquisition schemes, small and medium scale enterprises, among others. 

"In infrastructure, this administration has not disappointed the people. If you travel round the state, you will notice series of ongoing road projects being undertaken by government. They include: The Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki road, Itapa-Omu-Ijelu road, Ikere-Igbara Odo road, Ikere - Ilawe road, Ekiti State Ring Road Phase 1 that crosses over seven communities, Ogotun-Ikogosi road, among others. 

"The flagship of this is the flyover project being constructed in Ado Ekiti that will ensure traffic decongestion in the metropolis and boost the functionality of the Ado Ekiti Business District. 

"Let me also add that over 40 communities that had hitherto been in total darkness had been reconnected to the national grid and now enjoying progressive increase in business activities", the governor said. 

Espousing the reasons for backing the 2026 continuity agenda, the group's Coordinator, Mrs Rachael Babatunde, predicated the action on the governor's performance, especially the  empowerment of the citizens to bail them out of poverty  and wanton neglect. 

Babatunde said: "2026 election is a done deal for Governor Biodun Oyebanji. We will work hard to deliver him, because Ekiti people are feeling the impacts of good governance under Oyebanji, especially the youths, widows, traders, orphans, women groups".

Lending credence to Oyebanji's credibility, the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Governor, Chief Jide Awe, described the governor  as a marketable product, who has not disappointed the populace in terms of performance and fraternity with the people at the grassroots.

To fortify the APC, the former All Progressives State Chairman, appealed to members of the association to approach their wards and embark on aggressive mobilisation that will reposition the party ahead of the 2026 poll.

Other high profile dignitaries at the political event are: The Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe, a top female politician, Erelu Kemi Elebute "Halle, Technical Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, Special Assistants, among others.

BTO: The Quintessential Leader Redefining Service in Politics.

BTO: The Quintessential Leader Redefining Service in Politics.

By Iwalefun Sunday

In the political landscape of Nigeria, few leaders have left an indelible mark like Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo (BTO), the indefatigable Minister of Interior. Renowned for his unwavering dedication to public service and his passion for impactful leadership, BTO stands tall as a beacon of hope and a model of selflessness.

BTO's foray into politics was driven by an unyielding desire to serve, not for self-aggrandizement but to create a better future for the people. His record speaks volumes—he has consistently prioritized the welfare of his constituents and the nation at large, demonstrating an unparalleled commitment to progress.

Since assuming office as Minister of Interior, BTO has spearheaded reforms aimed at improving national security, enhancing border control, and ensuring seamless service delivery in immigration and civil defense operations. His leadership has reinvigorated the Ministry, making it a cornerstone of Nigeria’s development agenda.

BTO's leadership style is rooted in humility and accessibility. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life reflects his deep understanding of their needs and aspirations. He remains a true embodiment of servant-leadership, constantly striving to uplift the underprivileged and championing the cause of the masses.

Beyond his political achievements, BTO is an inspiration to the youth, proving that politics can be a noble avenue for service. His integrity, hard work, and visionary approach have earned him respect across political divides, setting a benchmark for leadership in Nigeria.

Hon. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo is not just a politician; he is a leader with a mission to serve and transform lives. His remarkable journey in politics is a testament to the power of selfless leadership and a reminder that true leaders emerge not for personal gain but to leave a legacy of impact and change. Indeed, BTO is a shining example of what politics should truly represent.

Comrade Iwalefun Sunday

Omo Oke-Babale 

(BTO Ambassador)