PENGASSAN Confirms Return Of Fuel Subsidy Under Tinubu

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has confirmed the return of fuel subsidy under President Bola Tinubu.

President Bola Tinubu had announced the removal of fuel subsidy on his first day in office, leading to increase in fuel price from N197 to between N480 and N570, the pump price was subsequently reviewed upward to N620.

However, there were reports that the price would go up as a result of fluctuation in the global oil market.

There were reports that the federal government intervened to prevent further rise in pump price, but the government denied this.

However, Daily Trust subsequently found documents which showed that despite the numerous assurances by Tinubu that subsidy was gone, the federal government paid N169.4 billion as subsidy in August to keep the pump price at N620 per litre.

A document by the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), sighted by our reporter, showed that in August 2023, the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) paid $275m as dividends to Nigeria via NNPC Limited. NNPC Limited used $220m (N169.4 billion at N770/$) out of the $275m to pay for the PMS subsidy. Then NNPC held back $55m, illegally.

The government neither confirmed nor denied the story.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Festus Osifo, National President of PENGASSAN, said due to the cost of crude oil in the international market and the exchange rate, the government still pays subsidies on petrol.

“They [government] are paying subsidy today. In reality today, there is subsidy because as of when the earlier price was determined, the price of crude in the international market was somewhere around $80 for a barrel. But today, it has moved to about $93/94 per barrel for Brent crude. So, because it has moved, then the price [of petroleum] also needed to move,” he said.

He said before the government can stop subsidising petroleum, two things must happen.

“The only reason the price will not move is when you are able to manage your exchange rate effectively and you are able to pump in supply and bring down the exchange rate.

“So, if the exchange rate comes down today, we will not be paying subsidy. But with the exchange rate value and the price of crude oil in the international market, we have introduced subsidy,” the PENGASSAN boss said.

Credit: Daily trust official website 

DIKKO, THE OMITUNTUN 2.0 & SAfER CATALYTIC INGREDIENT

DIKKO, THE OMITUNTUN 2.0 & SAfER CATALYTIC INGREDIENT

By Alabi Caleb Olatunji, Editor of "Omi Titun Express Newsmagazine.

There is no doubting the unimpeachable fact that Governor Seyi Makinde's resolve to deliver quality governance has continued to assume higher pedestal each passing moment.

GSM has confounded his critics very early in the 2nd term running that the much lauded impressive performance of first term was just a decoy to win another term. No, it is now crystal clear that the mechanism for GSM to perform is in-built and inherent virtues, uncommon in today's political space, indeed Makinde is a special breed of global leaders in advanced nation, whose priorities are simply writing his name in the annals of history as a man who has impacted the world.

A clearly clairvoyant leader, adroit at his operations has intuitively narrowed the choice to a man, whose debut in the Oyo state political space came with lots conjecture but whose performance within the shortest time of appointment had lent credence to competences, capability and strong capacity to deliver the vision as a Governor.

Hon. Dr Ibraheem , though popularity known as DIKKO has availed the advantage of appointment as the indefatigable Chairman and Sole Administrator of (PTS) Pacesetter Transport Services Company to inject digital transformation in tune with global standard.

Vividly, Oyo State populace has felt the positive economic impact of "Omituntun Mass Transit Buses" with ease of transportation from one points to another as another promised kept from Governor Makinde to his people.

In a most organized manner, the good people of Oyo state have accessed their mass transit buses with all anciliary advantages.

Hon. DIKKO in awesome discharge of his official duties, has demonstrated the justification for the competence reposed in him by Gov.Makinde, he has put the entire Oyo youths in better perspective as being capable to handle sensitive state obligations.

It is definitely an attestation Makinde's commitment of dividends of democracy loaded in Omituntun 2.0 Agenda on sustainable development goal accessible to Oyo populace in other spheres as well.

Hon. Oladeji Salami has worked out the mindset of his boss, whose zeal to put smiles on their faces and assuage the painful effect of fuel subsidy removal has continued to make the impact of brilliantly designed SAfER (Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery) felt in the transport palliative system as other measures have taken flight in line with the Governors directive.

I must say, Gov. MAKINDE had made Oyo State, Nigerians as a whole proud based on the innovative technology and digital improvement made so far at Pacesetter Transport Services Company of Oyo State under the leadership of the first Sole Administrator as well the Chairman, Hon Dr Ibraheem Oladeji Salami a.k.a DIKKO.

However, I wish Hon. Dikko a successful journey at the company as well to our pragmatic Gov. Engr Dsc GSSRS KJW Abiodun Oluseyi MAKINDE FNSE a victorious tenure.

Ogunbote Shifts Focus to Gombe United Tie

Ogunbote Shifts Focus to Gombe United Tie

Aftermath his side's 0-2 loss to Bendel Insurance in Benin on Saturday, the Technical Adviser of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), has shifted his focus to the next game.

The Ibadan soccer lords, lost the Matchday two fixture to the Benin Arsenals, despite dominating proceedings in the encounter.

In his post match briefing, the former Lobi Stars and Rangers International of Enugu handler, said he had already put the game behind him and was already looking forward to the next game, which is a Matchday three fixture against Gombe United in Ibadan 

"This game had been played, won and lost, we take the positives from the game and be better in the next game.

The Oracle, as the gaffer is fondly called, expressed satisfaction with the performance of his players in the encounter, even as he exonerated them of any blame for the loss .

"We played well all through the game. Sometimes, there are things that can be irritating, the players are human beings.

"As far as I am concerned, all I want to say is, we will take the positives from the game, we have lost the game, we have lost it, there is nothing anybody can do about it," the tactician stated.

When asked to comment on officiating of the game, the ex Sunshine Stars of Akire coach said; "As journalists, I expect that when you watch a game, you should be able to have an independent report as regards officiating. That's why you are here".

Own Goal: Gali Falke Apologises to Shooting Stars Supporters

Own Goal: Gali Falke Apologises to Shooting Stars Supporters

"Says it was not intentional

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan right back, Gali Falke, has apologised to the teeming supporters and fans of the club, after he mistakenly headed the ball into his own net in the team's 0-2 loss to Bendel Insurance of Benin.

Gali, one of the Oluyole Warriors' most dedicated and committed players, unintentionally headed past goalkeeper Ovunda Darlintin in an attempt to head Stanley Okorom's cross out of danger.

The development has become a topical issue, with some people accusing the player of deliberately nodding in the ball..

Although, some football followers, analysts, journalists, his club officials and teammates have risen in his defence, the former EFCC of Abuja defender, has come out to clear his name.

"I want to sincerely tender my apology to the supporters and fans of this great club for what happened in Benin on Saturday.

"What happened was not intentional. My aim was to nod out for safety, but the ball mistakenly went past my goalkeeper.

"I was very sad and it really affected my game. I had to shrug off the disappointment to continue the match, believing that we will definitely come back and get something positive from the game.

 "have read a lot after the match, but I want to tell everyone that I am very sorry. I have never been involved in any match fixing or betting before and I will never be involved in such an act.

"It was a mistake and I have made up my mind to forget it and give my best for the team in subsequent matches and more importantly to make up for that mistake", stated the soft spoken, reliable right back..

Gali was recently named as the first vice captain of the Oluyole Warriors and he was named as one of the best players on Matchday one of the new season after his spectacular performance in the team's 2-1 win over Plateau United of Jos

Cheiftancy: Arole Felicitates with BMM & Ilaji

 Cheiftancy: Arole Felicitates with BMM & Ilaji 

Hon. Olugbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' Felicitates with Chief Muyiwa Makinde & Chief Dotun Sanusi on their elevation as Bada Olubadan and Jagun Olubadan respectively.

Arole describe duo as the born philanthropist and intelligent men per excellent that God bestowed divine wisdom, and they have impacted the whole nation positively in all endeavor.

Hon. appreciate His Imperial Majesty Oba Sen. Mahood Olalekan Balogun  Olubadan of Ibadan land for elevated the philanthropist of our time also thanks His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde FNSE for paying a fatherly towards the Oyo state traditional roles

In a nutshell, Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' wish the new chiefs long life to be among incoming Olubadan in the nearest future

BREAKING: Labour Postpones Planned Indefinite Strike

 

After about five hours of horse trading between the organised labour and the federal government team on the proposed indefinite strike slated to commence October 3, labour has suspended the strike for 30 days.

Before the agreement was reached, the organised labour had threatened to pull out of the meeting following the government insistence that the N35, 000 Provisional salary increment would only last for six months.

The labour had accused the government team of reneging on what was agreed on Sunday night to the effect that the N35, 000 Provisional salary increment which is across board, would be paid till when new minimum wage would be negotiated and implemented from next year.

But reading the Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, at the end of the meeting which ended about 11pm, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, said the Organised labour has suspended the planned indefinite strike for 30 days.

The MoU also mandated the Minister of Labour to look into the withheld salaries of university staff.

You are one of the greatest political minds around, Arole Celebrate Odidiomo

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' Felicitates with Hon. Stanley Adedeji Odidiomo ad he marks another year of existence in the land of living he quoted:

 "It’s such an honor to be able to

share and be a part of your birthday

celebrations, as you are one of the

greatest political minds around.

God bless you for all of your efforts

in leading our great country towards

better days.

I hope that your birthday this year is

a celebration of the remarkable person

that you are and all the good that you

do. "

Finally he appluad him for being such an inspiration

and for his remarkable leadership.

Happy birthday.

BUA Cement reduces ex-factory cement prices to N3,500/bag effective October 2, 2023.

 BUA Cement reduces ex-factory cement prices to N3,500/bag effective October 2, 2023

Bua cement has reduced its product price  was known through a publication issued by their management on Sunday October 1st 2023 which quote:

"We refer to our previous pronouncements regarding our intent to reduce cement prices upon the completion of our new lines at the end of the year, in order to spur development in the building materials and infrastructure sectors.

As per the commitment made to reduce prices and following a periodic review of our operations for efficiency, the management of BUA Cement Plc wishes to announce and inform our esteemed customers, stakeholders, and the public that effective October 2, 2023, we have decided to bring the price reduction forward. As a result, BUA Cement would now be sold at an ex-factory* price of 3,500 Naira per bag so that Nigerians can begin to enjoy the benefits of the price reduction before the completion of our plants.

Upon completion of the ongoing construction of our new plants, which would increase our production volumes to 17million metric tonnes per annum, BUA Cement PLC intends to review these prices further in line with our earlier pronouncements by the first quarter of 2024.

NOTE: all pending, undelivered orders which had been paid for at the old prices will be reviewed downwards to N3500/bag in line with the new pricing from October 2, 2023. Our licensed dealers are also enjoined to ensure that end-users benefit from this reduction in ex-factory prices as we will monitor field sales to ensure compliance.

Signed:

Management

01 October, 2023

Nigeria@63: Rome was not built in a day, Let's be patient and prayerful, Arole celebrates Nigeria

 Nigeria@63: Rome was not built in a day, Let's be patient and prayerful, Arole celebrates Nigeria

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' has celebrate Nigeria on her 63rd independence day, he defined Nigeria as a great Nation because God has been good to this nation in terms of minerals resources, Man power, perfect weather and for giving us faithful leadership especially in Oyo state.

He therefore urged the good citizens of Nigeria to be patience, truly we are in hardship period but it is temporary because Rome was not built in a day, he stressed that things can not be continue as it was in Nigeria and for any gain there must be a pain, he urged us that endurance is the key towards having a great Nation 

He also urged the present administration under the able leadership of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to implement some policies that will ease the hardship of Nigerians and to run his administration with righteousness because a Bible verse said "Righteousness exalt a nation"

while expressing his regards to His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde FNSE for been a people governor and for his way of running an inclusive government in the Pace Setter State that ushered in women and youth in the state Executives. 

finally, he implored the good citizens of Nigeria to Prayerful for our Leaders and our Nation entirely and urged them to be a good citizens of the Nation

October 1: President Tinubu’s full speech on Independence Day

 ADDRESS BY HIS EXCELLENCY, PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA IN COMMEMORATION OF THE 63RD INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF NIGERIA ON SUNDAY, 1ST OCTOBER, 2023

It is my unique honour to address you on this day, the 63rd anniversary of our nation’s independence, both as the President of our dear country and, simply, as a fellow Nigerian.

On this solemn yet hopeful day, let us commend our founding fathers and mothers. Without them, there would be no modern Nigeria. From the fading embers of colonialism, their activism, dedication and leadership gave life to the belief in Nigeria as a sovereign and independent nation.

Let us, at this very moment, affirm that as Nigerians, we are all endowed with the sacred rights and individual gifts that God has bestowed on us as a nation and as human beings. No one is greater or lesser than the other. The triumphs that Nigeria has achieved shall define us. The travails we have endured shall strengthen us. And no other nation or power on this earth shall keep us from our rightful place and destiny. This nation belongs to you, dear people. Love and cherish it as your very own.

Nigeria is remarkable in its formation and essential character. We are a broad and dynamic blend of ethnic groups, religions, traditions and cultures. Yet, our bonds are intangible yet strong, invisible yet universal. We are joined by a common thirst for peace and progress, by the common dream of prosperity and harmony and by the unifying ideals of tolerance and justice.

Forging a nation based on the fair application of these noble principles to a diverse population has been a task of significant blessing but also serial challenge. Some people have said an independent Nigeria should never have come into existence. Some have said that our country would be torn apart. They are forever mistaken. Here, our nation stands and here we shall remain.

This year, we passed a significant milestone in our journey to a better Nigeria. By democratically electing a 7th consecutive civilian government, Nigeria has proven that commitment to democracy and the rule of law remains our guiding light.

At my inauguration, I made important promises about how I would govern this great nation. Among those promises, were pledges to reshape and modernize our economy and to secure the lives, liberty and property of the people.

I said that bold reforms were necessary to place our nation on the path of prosperity and growth. On that occasion, I announced the end of the fuel subsidy.

I am attuned to the hardships that have come. I have a heart that feels and eyes that see. I wish to explain to you why we must endure this trying moment. Those who sought to perpetuate the fuel subsidy and broken foreign exchange policies are people who would build their family mansion in the middle of a swamp. I am different. I am not a man to erect our national home on a foundation of mud. To endure, our home must be constructed on safe and pleasant ground.

Reform may be painful, but it is what greatness and the future require. We now carry the costs of reaching a future Nigeria where the abundance and fruits of the nation are fairly shared among all, not hoarded by a select and greedy few. A Nigeria where hunger, poverty and hardship are pushed into the shadows of an ever fading past.

There is no joy in seeing the people of this nation shoulder burdens that should have been shed years ago. I wish today’s difficulties did not exist. But we must endure if we are to reach the good side of our future.

My government is doing all that it can to ease the load. I will now outline the path we are taking to relieve the stress on our families and households.

We have embarked on several public sector reforms to stabilize the economy, direct fiscal and monetary policy to fight inflation, encourage production, ensure the security of lives and property and lend more support to the poor and the vulnerable.

Based on our talks with labour, business and other stakeholders, we are introducing a provisional wage increment to enhance the federal minimum wage without causing undue inflation. For the next six months, the average low-grade worker shall receive an additional Twenty-Five Thousand naira per month.

To ensure better grassroots development, we set up an Infrastructure Support Fund for states to invest in critical areas. States have already received funds to provide relief packages against the impact of rising food and other prices.

Making the economy more robust by lowering transport costs will be key. In this regard, we have opened a new chapter in public transportation through the deployment of cheaper, safer Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses across the nation. These buses will operate at a fraction of current fuel prices, positively affecting transport fares.

New CNG conversions kits will start coming in very soon as all hands are on deck to fast track the usually lengthy procurement process. We are also setting up training facilities and workshops across the nation to train and provide new opportunities for transport operators and entrepreneurs. This is a groundbreaking moment where, as a nation, we embrace more efficient means to power our economy. In making this change, we also make history.

I pledged a thorough housecleaning of the den of malfeasance the CBN had become. That housecleaning is well underway. A new leadership for the Central Bank has been constituted. Also, my special investigator will soon present his findings on past lapses and how to prevent similar reoccurrences. Henceforth, monetary policy shall be for the benefit of all and not the exclusive province of the powerful and wealthy.

Wise tax policy is essential to economic fairness and development. I have inaugurated a Committee on Tax Reforms to improve the efficiency of tax administration in the country and address fiscal policies that are unfair or hinder the business environment and slow our growth.

To boost employment and urban incomes, we are providing investment funding for enterprises with great potential. Similarly, we are increasing investment in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

Commencing this month, the social safety net is being extended through the expansion of cash transfer programs to an additional 15 million vulnerable households.

My administration shall always accord the highest priority to the safety of the people. Inter-Service collaboration and intelligence sharing have been enhanced. Our Service Chiefs have been tasked with the vital responsibility of rebuilding the capacities of our security services.

Here, I salute and commend our gallant security forces for keeping us safe and securing our territorial integrity. Many have paid the ultimate sacrifice. We remember them today and their families. We shall equip our forces with the ways and means needed to perform their urgent task on behalf of the people.

We shall continue to make key appointments in line with the provisions of the Constitution and with fairness toward all. Women, Youth and the physically challenged shall continue to be given due regard in these appointments.

May I take this opportunity to congratulate the National Assembly for its role in the quick take-off of this administration through the performance of its constitutional duties of confirmation and oversight.

I similarly congratulate the judiciary as a pillar of democracy and fairness.

I also thank members of our dynamic civil society organizations and labour unions for their dedication to Nigerian democracy. We may not always agree but I value your advice and recommendations. You are my brothers and sisters and you have my due respect.

Fellow compatriots, the journey ahead will not be navigated by fear or hatred. We can only achieve our better Nigeria through courage, compassion and commitment as one indivisible unit.

I promise that I shall remain committed and serve faithfully. I also invite all to join this enterprise to remake our beloved nation into its better self. We can do it. We must do it. We shall do it.!!!

I wish you all a happy 63rd Independence Anniversary.

Thank you for listening.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION: "You're a Special Specie, an Iconic Pillar, a Humanitarian Intentional Builder"--- MOE Extols Chief Ologburo On His 63rd Birthday

 

......Today is an unusual and unique day.

In the spirit of celebrating Nigeria independence from the colonial masters, the Convener of OOSE SEYI Movement  Volunteers (OSM), Oyo State, Comrade Dig. Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez codenamed Ijoba Authority MOE has congratulated Oyo astute pillar, a good minded philanthropist and an ardent lover of Gov Seyi Makinde to pieces. He is the CEO Quickborn Nigeria Limited, a renowned, trusted and well honored company among others in Oyo State Nigeria, Alh. Chief Babatunde Ologburo on the occasion of his 63rd birthday anniversary today 1st of  October, 2023. 

In a statement released by Egalitarian Moyosoreoluwa to the newsmen in Ibadan, said, it is the lord's doing and marvelous in our sight seeing Gods grace upon his Son, the silent humanitarian creation, an actor towards a successful positive mission, highly cerebral in nature and stature, a man highly favoured, blessed by God the Father to have survived another thorough journey of survivalist, a hope of better days ahead written boldly on him.

“Dear Most Distinguished Iconic Pillar, Intentional Deliberate Builder, indefatigable force, an encouragement of hope to hopeless being, a characteristic of Grace personified full of grace as he shares date with his country independence celebration @63 coincidentally, Ologburo of our own time.

Today is an unusual and unique day, as all creation is standing still on your behalf for an unending celebration of life, this is going to be your year of bountiful rewards, exceptional miracles and unbelievable, unbeatable and unspeakable Joy. Truthful, you are a rare golden onyx, uninterrupted effects of GREAT NATION PERSONIFIED he said.

You are a man of brave heart, fearless and humanitarian per excellence. However, I noted your humility, dedication, commitment, Love, loyalty and sobriety in the society as well in the quest to ensure Gov Makinde, your ally succeeds in omituntun 2.0 sustainable development goal as he has made his people proud during omituntun 1.0 accelerated development” the statement reads.

While many a party man, individual, well meaning Oyo born, whom God has really blessed from the system, benefitted and still benefiting in makinde's administration could not give back to their system that fed them to brim, you changed the normal to the new normal by encouraging emerging leaders to have hope, build capacity, strength and entrepreneurship muscles in knowing and coveting opportunities around the system“.

Chief Babatunde Ologburo has held his head high and remained focused, formed and firmed to his passion, conviction to humanitarian services beyond discouragement from any quarters, as matter of fact, he is used to doing it hence the drive towards service to humanity at all cost.”

"Your supports towards My Principal, Effulgent Leader, Exceptional Inspirational Educationist, His Excellency Engr. Dsc GSSRS KJW Abiodun Seyi Makinde  FNSE, can not be over flogged hence the waves of Ologburo all over the space for Seyi Makinde in all forms are unimaginable.

Just about two months ago, precisely Saturday 12th Aug, 2023, you placed a call on me for August invitation. Unknown to me that you had already packaged a gift token of NGN1,000,000 to inspire and encourage me seeing all my activities behind the scene despite not an appointee,  to do more on promoting and propagating the good work of Gov Seyi Makinde while I am yet opportuned to benefit from the System since 2019. 

While you were sharing some words of wisdom, one of your words melt my heart that, one has to be focused, committed and courageous in any mission embarked upon and not lose the track for others to slow and overtake you on the race.

On a final note, let me use this opportunity to charge, challenge our fellow compatriots, business tycoons, blessed individuals to remember that, When you build one, you have built many and another many will give birth to many because, Vanity upon vanity, sti vanity. Whatever you have and can't benefit or influence your neighbor(s) to raise them is a waste.

Alh. Ologburo is a Deliberate Builder and An Intentional Humanitarian to pieces."

"On behalf of my Foundations, Moyology Orientation Empire Foundation and Female Orientation Team Initiative respectively we wish you ( Alh. Chief Babatunde Ologburo, CEO Quickborn Nigeria Limited ) a life full of happiness, success, goodness, peace, longevity and prosperity, today and in the years ahead. 

Congratulations once again! Cheers and have fun!

Your's Servant Leader,

Egalitarian Dig. Com.

Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez codenamed IJOBA AUTHORITY MOE Dynasty World-Wide writes from the home of Generals Ibadan North East World

He4she Crusader, A Feminist.

NANS JCC OYO AXIS Executives Appreciates Makinde, Commends PTS Chairman for Digital-Friendly Initiatives

 NANS JCC OYO AXIS Executives Appreciates Makinde, Commends PTS Chairman for Digital-Friendly Initiatives

In a remarkable display of collaboration and advocacy, the Executive board of the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee (NANS JCC) Oyo Axis met with the Chairman of Pacesetter Transport Service yesterday to discuss significant developments benefiting students across the state. The meeting, which took place at the Pacesetter Transport Service headquarters, was marked by the NANS executives passing a vote of confidence on the Chairman’s administration for their commitment to enhancing transportation efficiency for students.

During the session, the NANS executives lauded the Chairman for his proactive steps towards ensuring the convenience and safety of students commuting through Pacesetter Transport Service. One of the key highlights of the meeting was the announcement that Pacesetter Transport Service would be providing 50,000 PACESETTER cards to students, facilitating seamless travel and reducing financial burden on the student community.

The NANS Chairman expressed gratitude for this digital-friendly initiative, emphasizing the positive impact it would have on the educational pursuits of countless students within the Oyo Axis. He acknowledged the efforts of Pacesetter Transport Service in creating an efficient transport system tailored to meet the needs of students, thereby contributing to the overall growth of education in the state.

Additionally, the NANS Chairman took the opportunity to advocate for the promises the Executive Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde FNSE made to the student body in Oyo State. The Pacesetter Transport Services Chairman, Hon Dr. Ibraheem Oladeji Salami said in his words that he will fulfill his promises regarding the installation of free Wi-Fi in the new buses. He acknowledged the importance of digital connectivity for students and reiterated his dedication to creating a modern, comfortable, and student-friendly transport system.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties expressing their commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial relationship. The NANS JCC Oyo Axis Executives expressed their optimism for the future, believing that the collaborative efforts between student representatives and transport authorities would continue to yield positive outcomes for the student community in the region.

This meeting stands as a testament to the power of dialogue and co-operation between student organizations and public services, showcasing the potential for positive change when students’ needs and concerns are addressed collaboratively. As a result, students in the Oyo Axis can look forward to a more convenient and digitally connected commuting experience, thanks to the proactive initiatives undertaken by the Pacesetter Transport Services Chairman and the support of NANS JCC Oyo Axis.

Communique Issued At The End of 2023 SWAN National Convention Held At Cyson Hotel, Asaba, Delta State During 7th National Youth Games (NYG) On September 29.

 Communique Issued At The End of 2023 SWAN National Convention Held At Cyson Hotel, Asaba, Delta State During 7th National Youth Games (NYG) On September 29.

The National Convention was chaired by the SWAN National President, Mr. Isaiah Kemje Benjamin, and was declared open by the Minister of Sports development Sen. John Owan Enoh who was represented by the Director Press Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Mr. Mohammed Manga FCAI.

The Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Tonobok Okowa, represented by the Head Media Committee of 2023 NYG, Moses Etu was also in attendance.

SWAN commended Delta State under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori for hosting a successful NYG.

The Convention observed with concern, issues/incidences of age cheat in NYG which affected the objectives of the game negatively.

SWAN called for review of awarding medals and monetary rewards to winners which is largely responsible for the desperation by the state and their coaches for winning by any and every means.

The convention called for establishment of a High Performance Centre and or review of such existing facility to take care of nurturing of discovered athletes.

SWAN called for a better and more coordinated accreditation process for journalists in future editions of the games for proper logistics planning.

SWAN called for a more effective and efficient preparation of medals table for easily available and accessible medal positions. It further recommended the establishment of an ICT unit and involvement of SWAN members in compilation of tables.

SWAN also called for prompt release and update of results at the event venues.

SWAN recommended that the Federal Government should harvest discovered athletes at NYG and groom them for sustenance of their progress.

SWAN called for a more objective officiating by umpires to forestall future displeasure by competing and not demoralise genuine competitors.

SWAN called for hybrid screening process with biometrics and NIN as against facial screening

The Convention commended the Delta State Government for good hosting and called for a better planning for the media in areas of accommodation and transport to games venues.

SWAN commended Delta State for medical response but called for a more robust medical corps to ensure there are medical teams at all venues and reduction in response time for emergencies.

SWAN enjoined the organisers to impress on coaches to only field athletes that are U-15 at NYG.

The convention commended Delta State for being a lover of sports, a gesture that propelled the state to host various sporting activities, with  Zenith Basketball billed for the state in a few days time, while calling on the Federal Government to make more funds available for sponsorship of national competitions to ease the burden of host states.

The convention said poaching of athletes ahead of national competitions should be discouraged.and and called on states to shun quick win mentality but take time to prepare their athletes for competitions.

SWAN noted with dismay the poor kitting of athletes by States and advised that they should ensure that their athletes are properly kitted including the use of spike shoes.

SWAN commended all NYG host states past and present including Kano, FCT, Kwara and Delta for supporting the growth of the games.

The convention noted the need for Sports Journalists to improve their skills and deepen their knowledge of various sports for effective discharge of their duties.

SWAN called on State Governments and Local Government Areas to prioritise the development of Sports and Youth Development to curb unemployment, criminality and other social vices; and advocated investing in the discovery of hidden sporting potentials by organising Intra-State and other Mini Sports Competitions, and recommended stiffer punishment for officials/referees and or umpires of sports who indulge in sharp practices.

The Convention congratulated Mr. Isaiah Kemje Benjamin, on his election as President of SWAN as well as other elected officials of the Association at 2023 Trianial Delegate Conference held in Omoku, Rivers State, .

SWAN lauded its National leadership for exemplary and dogged manner it has piloted the affairs of the professional body so far.

COMMUNIQUÉ-DRAFTING COMMITTEE MEMBERS:

Chimezie Anaso - Chairman

Jacob Onjewu Dickson - Member

Eche Amos - Secretary

Ikenna Okonkwo - Secretary-General, SWAN 

Welcome to 'SEXAGENARIAN' Group, Arole Felicitates Hon. Dare Adeleke @60

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' Celebrate his ally and colleagues Hon. Dare Adeleke as he clocks sixty in the land of living. Described as a man of many talents also express his joyous towards the celebration of this man of honour, an achiever per excellence, he welcome him to the group of sexagenarian and also wish him long life and prosperity, 

Arole commend D.A for his meritorious services he has served Oyo state and Nigeria at large in political field, also appreciate his steadfastness towards resuscitation of People's Democratic Party in Oyo state.

NYG: AROLE SPLASHES CASH ON TEAM OYO MEDALISTS

The Immediate past Chairman of Oyo State Sports Council and former Ibadan North East Local Government Chairman Honourable Gbenga Adewusi fondly called 'Arole' has again demonstrated his kind gestures by rewarding Team Oyo athletes that has gold medals with cash gift at the ongoing 7th National Youth Games 'Asaba 2023'.

OyoSportsNews in a brief telephone chat with 'Arole', explained that the gesture is a result of his passion and love to motivate athletes, promote and encourage sports development in Oyo state. He added that the donation is to acknowledge the exploits of Team Oyo and most especially gold medalits and also stimulate them to bring home more medals.

In Chess (classical), Team Oyo grabbed two gold medals while Ibrahim Ajibade had a best ride over his mates to clinch gold in 10Kilometer Individual Time Trial (ITT). Team Oyo also won gold in golf.

Speaking on the donation, Arole said: “I'm extremely happy with the performances of the athletes in Asaba, I was with thier seniors in November 2022 at Asaba during the National Sports Festival and for a young athlete below 15year old to have reach the final stage and won a gold medal; I think we need to motivate, encourage and pass strong message to other parents at home that they should support us in sports development. We can only catch them young."

"It being part of me in any national and state competitions to motivate athletes. As a retired handball player and lover of football, I observed many talents are hidden at the grassroots level and it's very important to discover, encourage, train and motivate them until they get to the top."

Meanwhile, Oyo State Sports Council Acting General Manager Mr Tunde Ajibike had commended Hon Gbenga Adewusi on the gesture describing it as a necessary tonic that would inspire other athletes to win more medals. He said It is an example for other well-meaning Nigerians to follow.