FG relaunches school feeding programme.

FG relaunches school feeding programme.

The Federal Government is relaunching the school feeding programme. The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr Yusuf Sununu, revealed this on Wednesday.

Speaking during a meeting with development partners, NGOs, and government officials in Abuja, Sununu said the relaunch would take place to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office.

He said the programme aims to combat child hunger and improve educational outcomes across the country.

Sununu highlighted the plan’s holistic design providing daily nutritious meals using locally sourced ingredients to support both children’s health and local farming communities.

He stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and collaboration to sustain the programme and ensure its long-term success.

“The initiative aims to benefit 10 million children and could increase school enrolment by 20 per cent and academic performance by 15 per cent by 2025,” he said.

The relaunch comes amid projections that over 30 million Nigerians may face hunger, underscoring the urgency of swift and effective implementation.

“Our mission is to feed every public school pupil in Primary One to Three, nurturing their potential and building the nation’s future,” he stated.

The programme is also designed to reduce malnutrition, boost school retention rates, and contribute meaningfully to national development.

He described it as a major step towards fighting hunger, malnutrition, and low school enrolment across the country.

He urged community ownership, active parental involvement, and training for cooks, while noting the programme’s potential to empower women and smallholder farmers.

Development partners, including the AMA Foundation and private firms like Tetra Pak, have pledged support for the renewed initiative.

The government also promised reforms, improved monitoring, and collaboration to guarantee sustainability and measurable impact.

Sununu called on all stakeholders to unite, stressing that the programme is capital intensive and requires joint effort for success.

Dr Aderemi Adebowale, National Programme Manager of RH-NHGSFP, described the programme as an investment in the nation’s future.

She said the aim extends beyond feeding — it also includes empowering women, youth, and farmers through inclusive and sustainable practices.

Adebowale noted that N100 billion has been allocated in the 2025 budget to scale up reach and deepen community impact.

“The updated RH-NHGSFP will provide daily meals to public primary pupils using food grown and sourced locally,” she explained.

She emphasised the power of collaboration, saying success would depend on collective action and a shared national vision.

Between 2018 and 2022, the programme improved nutrition and enrolment, but struggled with supply chain and farmer involvement issues.

Adebowale disclosed new QR-coded supply chains and real-time tracking for better transparency, quality control, and accountability.

According to her, the programme will fully integrate women, youth, cooks, and farmers, offering targeted training and income opportunities.

“Nutritionists, health professionals, and supervisors will monitor food quality and assess pupil health and programme outcomes.

“The focus remains on local sourcing, especially through women-led cooperatives, aiming to reduce rural poverty by 40 per cent,” Adebowale said.

She said collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission would ensure all beneficiaries are registered and tracked.

She urged partnerships with development agencies, community leaders, politicians, and state governors to ensure nationwide ownership.

Dr Badamasi Lawal, CEO of NSIPA, said the relaunch represents a turning point in Nigeria’s fight against child hunger and inequality.

Represented by Dr Binta Musa, he called on stakeholders to unite and secure a healthier, more inclusive future for children.

The meeting ended with a call for strategic partnerships to align the initiative with key Sustainable Development Goals.

Vanguard News

EKSG Honours Two Monarchs Over Resolved Boundary Dispute.

EKSG Honours Two Monarchs Over Resolved Boundary Dispute.

The Ekiti State Government, has presented Awards of Exemplary Leadership to the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, Oba Tajudeen Jimoh and Elepe of Epe Ekiti, Oba Michael Atolagbe, in Moba Local Government Area, for resolving the lingering boundary disputes between them using internal mechanisms.

The government was emphatic that the spirit of “sportsmanship” as well as “give and take” exhibited by the monarchs and elite from the two communities, was commendable, thereby attracting the honours to serve as examples to other towns locked in land squabbles that there is nothing to profit in violence.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Thursday, during the official presentation of report of Permanent Boundary Demarcation between Osan and Epe Ekiti communities.

The two communities, had in letter written in January 2024, and jointly signed by Professors Ayan Adeleke and Williams Adebayo, informed the government about their readiness to resolve their boundary crisis using internal mechanism.

Professor Adeleke, is the immediate past Deputy Vice Chancellor, Ekiti State University, while Prof Adebayo, is a serving Deputy Vice Chancellor of the same prestigious institution.

Mrs Afuye, via a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, said the honours presented by government to the traditional rulers, was in recognition of their sterling qualities and display of the spirit of sacrifice in the resolution of the bedlam.

The Deputy Governor commended the traditional rulers, members of the committee, elite from the towns and others, who participated in the resolution of the land tussle, saying history would continue to be kind to them.

Expressing the current government’s readiness to partner the traditional institution to further advance development, the Deputy Governor, was emphatic that Governor Biodun Oyebanji wont backtrack in his mission to make all Ekiti towns bereft of bloody boundary dispute that can impede progress.

“As the custodians of tradition and culture and the values of omoluabi, our traditional rulers have demonstrated that leadership is not merely about authority, but about service to humanity. Peaceful resolution of disputes places selfless service over personal wants and needs. Our Kabiyesis had demonstrated this.

“Your efforts have not only prevented bitterness and conflict, but have also laid the foundation for sustainable development in your communities as well as in our state. Today, we recognise and celebrate your unwavering commitments to peace and peaceful coexistence.

“I want to place on record and appreciate the role played by the chairmen of the committee: Prof Ayan Adeleke and Prof Williams Adebayo from Osan and Epe respectively, for taking the lead in the resolution of this crisis .

“As we present these awards to our royal fathers from Epe and Osan Ekiti, let them serve as reminders of the power of unity, cooperation, dialogue and peaceful resolution of differences. I believe this would inspire traditional rulers from other towns to follow your footsteps and contribute to the peace and progress of our beloved state”, she stated.

Describing the government’s position as timely and heartwarming, the Elepe of Epe Ekiti, Oba Michael Atolagbe, applauded the state government for the honour and for favourably disposed to the proposal pushed forward by the communities to settle their differences between themselves.

“I am happy about this honour and particularly that the two communities showed readiness to live together peacefully. The history we are making today will serve as a shining light to other towns that we have nothing to gain in fighting or killing ourselves over land dispute”.

Enthralled by the government’s action, the Olosan of Osan Ekiti, Oba Tajudeen Jimoh, said the mutual understanding between the two contiguous communities will help in stabilising the local government and fasttrack development across board.

“I am happy today that we are making history and it happens under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji. Let me emphasize that no sacrifice is too great to be made for the sake of peace.

“I appreciate the members of the committee and the state government who allowed this peace building initiative proposed by the two communities”, the monarch said.

The Chairman of Traditional Council in Moba Local Government and Oore of Otun Ekiti, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, said he was excited by the position taken by the two communities and government, saying this will further elevate unity and promote brotherhood among the towns in the council.

The Chairmen of the Committee set up by the towns to resolve the matter , Professors Ayan Adeleke and Williams Adebayo, applauded the government for allowing them to mediate in the prolonged crisis that ushered in this era of peace and unity.

Ikere West LCDA Celebrates Multiple Births with Gifts and Joy.

Ikere West LCDA Celebrates Multiple Births with Gifts and Joy. 

The Ikere West Local Council Development Area (LCDA) on Tuesday celebrated multiple births in the community, an event spearheaded by the wife of the council chairman, Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi.

The colourful event, which took place in Ikere West, was aimed at recognizing and appreciating the unique blessings of multiple births—such as twins and triplets—in the area.

During the celebration, the Executive Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, expressed gratitude to God for His continued mercy on the people of the council and Ekiti State at large. He also commended the wife of the Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for initiating and supporting programs that care for multiple birth families across the state.

The LCDA distributed cash gifts, food items, soft drinks, and biscuits to the children and their families, demonstrating the council’s commitment to the welfare of these special families.

The wife of the LCDA chairman, Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi, in her address, appreciated the chairman and the Ekiti State government for their support. She said:

 "Distinguished guests, esteemed mothers of multiple births (twins, triplets, and others), and honored officials of Ikere West LCDA, I am delighted to be part of this special celebration. Today, we come together to recognize and appreciate the unique blessings of multiple births in our community.

"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, for his unwavering support and commitment to initiatives that benefit our community. Your leadership has made a significant impact on the lives of our people, and we are grateful for your dedication.

"To the mothers of multiple births, I commend your strength, love, and care. Raising multiple children can be challenging, but your devotion and perseverance are truly inspiring. I urge you to continue providing the best possible care for your children, and know that you are not alone in this journey.

 "I also want to express my appreciation to Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, wife of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for her visionary initiative to care for multiple births in Ekiti State. This gesture demonstrates her commitment to the well-being of our citizens, and we are grateful for her kindness.

 "As we celebrate today, I want to assure you that Ikere West LCDA will continue to support and care for our multiple birth families. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our community provides a nurturing environment for all children to thrive.

"Once again, I thank everyone who has made this celebration possible. May God bless our children, our families, and our community."

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Osaloni, the wife of the Ado Local Government Chairman, lauded the initiative and the commitment of the state government to the welfare of citizens.

 "I am honored to be part of this celebration, and I commend the wife of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her kindness and vision. This initiative is a testament to the government's commitment to the well-being of its citizens, particularly those with unique needs.

 "I also want to express my gratitude to Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi and the Ikere West LCDA for their support and care for multiple birth families. Your efforts are truly making a difference in the lives of our people.

 "I urge all mothers of multiple births to continue providing love, care, and support to their children. You are not alone in this journey, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way."

On her part, the Head of Department, Community, Mrs. Asana, expressed her appreciation and joy over the event.

"I am delighted to be part of this special occasion, and I commend the Ikere West LCDA for their commitment to supporting and caring for multiple birth families. This gesture demonstrates the community's love and care for its members, particularly those with unique needs.

 "I urge all mothers of multiple births to take advantage of the support and care provided by the government and the LCDA. Let us work together to ensure that our community provides a nurturing environment for all children to thrive.

 "I thank everyone who has made this celebration possible, and particularly the chairman and the government for their support and initiative. May God bless our children, our families, and our community."

Dignitaries present at the celebration included: Hon. Rufus Ige Olorunfemi, Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Vice Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Secretary of Ikere West LCDA, HLA of Ikere West LCDA, D.A of Ikere West LCDA, Wife of Ikere West Vice Chairman, Wife of Ikere West LCDA Secretary, Wife of Legislative Leader of the House, HOD Community, Mrs. Asana, Mrs. Osaloni, wife of Ado Local Government Chairman, Mrs. Sanusi, former woman leader ATIBA, HODs of all departments in Ikere West LCDA, Political functionaries in Ikere West LCDA, Wife of Chairman, Ifedara LCDA, Wife of Chairman, Ado West LCDA and Multiple birth families and their mothers

Signed,

Mrs. Aderonke Olorunfemi,

Wife of Ikere West LCDA Chairman

Ojuawo Gifts APC Member with a Car.

Ojuawo Gifts APC Member with a Car.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has gifted a Volkswagen Golf car to Mr. Femi Obi, aka Shadow, a loyal APC member in Ise Ekiti. The car was presented by Hon. Dare Idowu, Ise/Orun APC Chairman, on behalf of Hon. Ojuawo.

Mr. Obi lost his car during the 2023 general election in Ise/Orun. During the presentation, the APC Chairman commended Mr. Obi’s steadfastness and patience, saying, “On behalf of the party, I appreciate your effort during the last general election, despite losing your vehicle. Your commitment and loyalty to the party are commendable.”

The Chairman also praised Hon. Ojuawo, saying, “Our MHR, Hon. Ojuawo, is a forthright person who keeps his promises. May God continue to guide him.”

Mr. Obi thanked Hon. Ojuawo for keeping his promise, calling him a “promise keeper.” He also commended the party’s leadership, saying, “Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for your effort. You’re doing well. 

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Oyebanji flags off Aerial Mapping of Ekiti to enhance land administration.

Oyebanji flags off Aerial Mapping of Ekiti to enhance land administration.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Wednesday launched a ground-breaking 3D drone aerial mapping of the state in a bid to enhance land administration, boost investment, and establish a comprehensive geospatial database to support development projects in the state.

Speaking while flagging-off the exercise at a brief ceremony held at the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said the exercise was designed to implement a comprehensive land administration solution that will enhance government’s planning capacity and improve service delivery to residents of the state.

 

The Governor described the exercise as a game changer for the state’s development. Highlighting the transformative potential of the project, Governor Oyebanji said the exercise would streamline land management, promote transparency, ensure security of property ownership, enhance urban planning as well as position the state as a hub for investors.

He explained further that the aerial mapping would also put an end to the persistent issues of fraudulent land transactions, curb menace of land grabbing, provide accurate land records and eliminate loopholes that have been exploited for land grabbing and other irregularities, thereby making the state more attractive for both local and foreign investors.

Oyebanji who while expressing optimism on the transformative potential of the exercise for the state’s economy, said: “By the time we finish what we are doing, it is going to open the window for investment into Ekiti State, the era of people selling one land to ten people will stop, the era of land grabbing will stop.

“An investor does not have to go to the office of Surveyor- General to sit with them because at a press of a button, you can locate every land and all houses in the state. So, it is a revolution and I am happy it is happening today”. the Governor asserted.

 

Earlier in his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Lands, Survey and e-GIS, Prof James Olaleye, said the exercise is the beginning of modernisation of land administration system in Ekiti through the use of cutting-edge geospatial technologies to improved land administration, infrastructure planning and management, secure land tenures, eliminate blind search for land, and boost internally generated revenue of the state.

While commending Governor Oyebanji for his visionary leadership, especially in leveraging on innovation and technology to drive development in the state, Prof Olaleye said that the aerial photographic mission would fly at low altitude to capture every inch of the state’s landmass.

 

He added that the project is expected touch every nook and corners of the state would last for one month.

 

The Contractor handling the project, Surveyor Olajugba Oluropo, commended the state government’s forward thinking approach in setting a new standard for land administration in the state. Oluropo who took the Governor and state officials present through a displayed mapping board as well as the aircraft’s facilities, assured the Governor of timely delivery and world-class execution of the project.

 

The aircraft took off for the commencement of the mapping exercise shortly after the brief ceremony.

 

Also at the event were Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council, Chairman, Council of Traditional Rulers/ Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti, HRM Oba Ilori Faboro; and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, HRM Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, Aladesanmi III.

Delta Governor Oborevwori dumps PDP for APC.

Delta Governor Oborevwori dumps PDP for APC.

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement was made following a closed-door meeting at the Government House in Asaba on Wednesdayn evening.

The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, who confirmed the decision said the decision was reached after “wide consultations with political stakeholders and in the interest of Delta’s long-term development.”

Oborevwori, who emerged victorious in the 2023 gubernatorial election under the PDP platform, was received by senior APC officials in what political analysts are already describing as a strategic realignment with significant implications ahead of the 2027 general elections.

EKSU Appoints Two New Deputy Vice Chancellors.

EKSU Appoints Two New Deputy Vice Chancellors.

By Olamide Akinwumi

The authorities of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, have approved the appointments of two new Deputy Vice Chancellors (DVCs).

They are Professor Williams Oluwole Adebayo, who has been appointed as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), and Professor Michael Olufemi Oke, who will serve as Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development).

Their appointments were ratified following their election by the Senate of the university at its 296th regular meeting held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

According to the Ekiti State University Law No. 12 of 2014, Schedule 1, Section 3, the Vice Chancellor is required to present to Senate the names of at least two Professors for consideration for the position of DVC. The Senate then elects its preferred candidates by simple majority, after which the names are forwarded to the Governing Council for approval.

The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Professor Akin Oyebode, approved the appointments on behalf of the Governing Council.

Professor Adebayo, a seasoned academic in the Department of Geography, began his educational journey at Moba Grammar School, Otun-Ekiti (1977–1982). He obtained his B.Sc. degree in Geography (Second Class Upper Division) from the then Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti in 1987. He earned both his M.Sc. and Ph.D degrees in Geography from the University of Ibadan in 1991 and 2000 respectively.

Prof. Williams Oluwole Adebayo.

Joining EKSU in 1989 as a Graduate Assistant, Adebayo rose through the ranks and became a Professor in 2007. He has held various key positions within the university, including Treasurer of ASUU, Dean of the Faculty of the Social Sciences, and Dean of Students. He is also affiliated with several professional bodies, including the Association of Nigerian Geographers and the International Geographical Union.

On the other hand, Professor Oke, a distinguished scholar in Mathematics, completed his secondary education at Notre Dame Grammar School, Usi-Ekiti, and Ekiti Parapo College, Ido-Ekiti between 1980 and 1985, before proceeding to Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti for his Higher School Certificate in 1987. He earned a B.Sc. in Mathematics (Second Class Upper Division) from the University of Benin in 1991 and later obtained his M.Sc. and Ph.D degrees in Mathematics from the University of Ilorin in 2005 and 2012 respectively.

Prof. Michael Olufemi Oke.

He joined the services of EKSU on December 1, 1993, and was promoted to the rank of Professor on October 1, 2018. Professor Oke has also served as Level Coordinator, Examinations Officer, Acting Head of the Department of Mathematics, and Head of the Department of Computer Science. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the Nigerian Mathematical Society and the American Mathematical Society.

A statement made available to the media by Bode Olofinmuagun, anipr, Deputy Registrar/Head of the Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs, highlighted that the appointments are seen as a positive step towards further academic and infrastructural development at EKSU.