Proposed Baywood Estate Doesn’t Affect Agodi Gardens – Makinde’s Aide, Shete

 

The Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Housing and Urban Development, Hon Olakunle Akinsete has cleared the air on the rumour doing the rounds that the Oyo State Government has converted another recreation Centre Agodi Gardens to a residential estate.

Shete noted that Governor Seyi Makinde is boisterous about Oyo State lands, environment, tourism, and urban development.

He stated that Agodi botanical gardens, which remains one of the best tourist and recreation sites in the Pacesetter, will not in any way be affected by the proposed Baywood Estate.

The Special Adviser stressed that the creation of more estates will not only improve the urbanization of Oyo State but will further open up the city to investors. His words:

“His excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde is boisterous about oyo State’s Lands, environment, tourism, and urban development.

“Our dear governor, who is very keen on tourism as it is a major point in the omituntun 2.0, will not jeopardise the plans in place for sustainable development in the state.

“Agodi botanical gardens, which is one of our favourite tourists and recreation sites in the state, is cherished and will not in any way be affected by the proposed baywood estate.

“However, we will all agree that the creation of more estates will not only improve the urbanisation of our state but will also further open up the city to investors

“Take, for instance, Lagos State has a very high population, and it is the smallest state in Nigeria because nearly a quarter of the state is water.

“At some point, Lagos had to let go (sand fill) a renowned beach so as to open up the city to more investors. Hence, the creation of Banana Island.

“I want to appeal to everyone to exercise patience and join hands together to make our society a better place. In just a matter of time, we will see that his Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde means well for Oyo State and the entire citizenry.”

Team Oyo’s Diary of Events at National Para Games 10/12/2023

 Team Oyo’s Diary of Events at National Para Games 10/12/2023

The athletes of the Pacesetter State truly set the pace as various games started at the 2nd National Para Games (Abuja 2023).

Undoubtedly, the swimmers brought their A-game to the pool as they racked up 7 medals after the end of today’s events. 

Regina Johnson Friday in the S-6 class won 2 silver medals with a bronze. It is important to add that Regina started swimming barely a month ago. 

African Backstroke

Para-Swimming record holder Akorede Moses won a gold and a silver medal for his efforts today while James Believe got 2 bronze medals at the pool also. The swimming team will be action in the male relay event tomorrow.

More medals came in from aquatic sports but this time in Para-Canoeing/Kayaking where Alayode Oluwatoyin was in electric mode as she rowed her way to two gold medals. Adeleke Kolawole was first runner-up in his two events today getting two silver medals in the process.

In Wheelchair-Tennis, it was mixed fortunes for Team Oyo as Chika Enwerem lost to Andrea Usho of Team Edo 5-7, 4-2, 8-10 in the female singles quarter-final. However, Team Oyo’s Williams Ukari defeated Kwara’s Olaosebikan Rafiu 4-2, 4-2 to proceed to tomorrow’s semi-final. Team Oyo’s Simon Promise had to defeat a stubborn Lateef Jimoh from Kano State 4-1, 2-4, 10-3 to proceed to the semi-finals of Men’s Wheelchair-Tennis.

The Wheelchair-Basketball of Oyo State showed there superiority as they outscored Team Lagos 21 – 14 points. 

At the end of today’s events, Team Oyo has won 3 gold, 5 silver and 3 bronze medals. 

 _BCOS' Tobi Ajewole reporting from Abuja._

'You are a woman of honour' - Arole celebrates Chief Mrs Funmilayo Arulogun

 'You are a woman of honour' - Arole celebrates Chief Mrs Funmilayo Arulogun

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' has Felicitates with Chief Mrs Funmilayo Arulogun Fmr. S.S.A to Governor on diaspora.

He described her as woman of honour and dignity, he stressed that Arulogun has served and performed excellently in the state and National atlarge, he expressed his satisfaction towards her contribution to the success of People's Democratic Party in Ibadan North East Local Government of Oyo state as grassroot politician, she has been a blessing and imparted some soul positively

On this note, Arole Felicitates with Arulogun on her auspicious day of her and wish her many happy returns in sound health.

Signed:

Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

Personal Assistant 

OYO LG Poll: Ona-Ara PDP Unveils Hon Kolapo Temitope(GLORIOUS) as Chairmanship Candidate and 11 Capable Councilorship Candidates

..... GLOWIN'2024

Ona Ara Local Government Area agog today Saturday 9th November, 2023 at the party (PDP) local government general meeting held at Elekuro High School Play Ground, Owode, Ibadan. A massive crowd welcomed the party's chairmanship candidate, Hon. Dr. Kolapo Temitope (GLORIOUS), along with his vice, Oluwole Windapo, and a capable team of 11 councilorship candidates slated for the 2024 Oyo State Local Government election.

Hon. Mosobalaje Bakare, the PDP party chairman in Ona-Ara, expressed gratitude to party leaders and prominent figures in the area. He thanked the members for their overwhelming presence, setting an optimistic tone for the upcoming elections. He equally appreciate Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of Oyo State.

Hon Mosobalaje introduced the key players, including chairmanship and vice chairmanship candidates, Kolapo Temitope and Oluwole Windapo, respectively. The list of councilorship candidates spans Wards 1 to 11, featuring a diverse array of individuals poised to represent their communities.

*The Lineup:*  

Ward 1: Rt.Hon Olapade Fatai

-Ward 2: Hon Akanji Alamu

-Ward 3: Hon Dauda Taiwo

- Ward 4: Hon Bello Wasiu

- Ward 5: Hon Olagunju Oluwatoba

- Ward 6: Hon James Kayode E.

- Ward 7: Hon Tajudeen M. Olawale

- Ward 8: Hon Olalere Akeem

- Ward 9: Hon Abolade Femi

- Ward 10: Hon Ayoade Folahan

- Ward 11: Hon Tijani Muritala

Hon. Kolapo Temitope, the PDP Chairmanship Candidate, expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support, describing the turnout as a preview of the spirited campaign ahead. He conveyed gratitude to the party executives, gladiators, and all members for their show of solidarity.

The event witnessed the presence of notable figures, including Oyo Central Senatorial Chairman Hon. Mufutau Ogunremi, Party Leader Alh. Adurodekun, Hon Ezekiel Temitope (OTOPE), Governor Makinde DG, Hon Wale Ajala, Wards Chairmen and various esteemed personalities, reinforcing the significance of the occasion in local politics.

Team Oyo’s Diary of Events at National Para Games (Day 1)

 Team Oyo’s Diary of Events at National Para Games (Day 1)

The contigent for Team Oyo arrived Nigeria’s Federal Capital – Abuja for the 2nd National Para Games tagged Abuja 2023 yesterday 8th December, 2023 where they participated in the official opening ceremony at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

The Pacesetter state which had a little over 100 persons in her train has 57 athletes participating in 9 different sports.

The Minister of Sports Development Senator John Owan Enoh who declared the games opened on behalf of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu charged the athletes to be highly competitive while embracing the spirit of sportsmanship before, during and after the games. He said his ministry will try to get more corporate bodies involved in sports so as to unlock more talents for the country.

Oyo State’s Youth and Sports Commissioner, Honorable Wasilat Adegoke had earlier charged the state’s athletes to go for gold and in the process improve on their second place finish from the maiden edition of the games.

Two sports where Team Oyo have representatives in Para-Karaté and Para-Canoeing have now had the commencement moved from today 9th to 10th December.

This edition of the National Para Games has 27 states participating in 16 sports with Delta and Rivers state being notable absentees.

BCOS’ Tobi Ajewole reporting from Abuja.

Good night brother - Arole Mourn D Gov

 

Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi 'Arole' has expressed shock over the death of the son of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III and former chairman of the Local Government Pensions Board, Prince Adebayo Adeyemi.

Arole described the death of the late politician, who was also the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2019 House of Representatives Candidate in Oyo Federal Constituency, as a sad loss.

Prince Adeyemi, popularly known as De Gov, died during a brief illness.

He expressed his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of Prince Adeyemi, the people of Oyo Kingdom and the PDP family in Oyo Federal Constituency.

He said: The news of your death was a shock to me, you are a jolly fellow, you are one of the best hand when we are talking about the grassroot politics but we can not query the authority of Almighty God, good night brother

Signed:

Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

Personal Assistant

Makinde Expresses Condolences on the demise of Prince Adeyemi

Makinde Expresses Condolences on the demise of Prince Adeyemi

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has expressed shock over the death of the son of the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III and former chairman of the Local Government Pensions Board, Prince Adebayo Adeyemi.

Governor Makinde described the death of the late politician, who was also the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2019 House of Representatives Candidate in Oyo Federal Constituency, as a sad loss.

Prince Adeyemi, popularly known as De Gov, died during a brief illness.

The governor expressed his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of Prince Adeyemi, the people of Oyo Kingdom and the PDP family in Oyo Federal Constituency.

He said: “I received the news of the transition of our brother, Prince Adebayo Adeyemi (De Gov) with shock and sadness.

“De Gov fought and won many battles with regards to his health and we all thought the worse was over. But we can only submit to the will of God, who gives and takes life.

“I commiserate with the immediate family of our dear brother, the Alaafin Royal Family and the people of Oyo.

“I equally express my condolences to the PDP family in the state and pray to God to grant repose to the soul of the late Prince Adeyemi.”

19 Permanent Secretaries, Including G.M, E.S Bows Out of Service

 

No fewer than 19 Permanent Secretaries, Executive Secretaries, General Managers on Thursday bows out of State Civil/Public Service in the Pacesetter State.

The event took place at the Civil Service Club, Total Garden. Ibadan where the State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni mni, congratulated the new retirees for getting to the peak of their carriers and especially their individual unquantifiable contributions to the progress of Oyo State Civil Service.

The Head of Service appreciated the executive Governor of Oyo State Engineer Seyi Makinde, FNSE for providing opportunities for civil servants to excel in their various endeavours.

She said "the retirement marks a new beginning and is not the end of life, it is an opportunity to explore the gifts you are naturally endowed with and enjoy life to the fullest“.

"take time to nourish your body through proper nutrition, exercise and rest don't engage in any business that you don't have any deeper knowledge and understanding about, always remember the world of God which says Godliness with contentment is a great gain".

She admonished them to pursue everything they had always desire to do, hinting that, they may be retiring from work but not retiring from life.

Responding, the retired Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy, Mrs. Aminat Atere commended the State Government for putting together a befitting programme on their honour. 

DIKKO, PTS SET TO INTRODUCE NEW ROUTES(OGBOMOSO-ISEYIN), VISIT LOCATIONS.

 DIKKO, PTS SET TO INTRODUCE NEW ROUTES(OGBOMOSO-ISEYIN), VISIT LOCATIONS.

As the operations of the Pacesetter Transport Services increase, and as demands increase, the Chairman and Sole Administrator of the Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Services, Hon. Dr. @theofficialdikko DIKKO, has said that the company is set to introduce new routes, particularly in Iseyin where a new demography of residents and commuters have just been introduced, courtesy of the new developments in the area of the Oke-Ogun region by His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde.

Recently, the State Governor, His Excellency, Engr. @seyi_amakinde situated and commissioned the LAUTECH College of Agricultural Science and Renewable Natural Resources in the Iseyin area of the Oke-Ogun region in the State, establishing a new demography of residents and commuters. This was after the systematic provision of the Ogbomoso-Iseyin road.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Government, in complementing the new development in the region, saw the need to subsidize transportation for the new demography thus mobilizing the State transport service to the area; hence the special transportation service rendered to the LAUTECH Iseyin students as a Corporate Social Responsibility.

Thus, the Chairman and Sole Administrator alongside a team of members of staff, took to these locations to survey, map out operations and visit some stakeholders.

The process started with the Management of the College of Agricultural Science and Renewable Natural Resources where the Management, represented by the Secretary, promised to ensure effective and easy commuting of the students by supporting the OMITUNTUN Shuttle by all necessary means. The meeting also emphasized the need for the new route - OGBOMOSO TO ISEYIN, to complement the shuttling lecturers, students and residents or travellers who have been looking forward to this development.

The visit continued to the residence of the recently appointed Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Alhaji Chief Yunus Omokunmi Mustapha, who facilitated a meeting between the Pacesetter Transport Services and the Park Management System in the Iseyin axis.

BREAKING: Tinubu Constitutes governing council

 President Bola Tinubu has approved the appointment of qualified Nigerians to serve on the Governing Council and Management team of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

A press statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, said the appointment is in conformity with Sections 71(1), 72, and 73 of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act (2010).

The new appointees include:

(1) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri — Chairman / HMS, Petroleum Resources

(2) Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe — Executive Secretary

(3) Oritsemyiwa Eyesan — Member / EVP Upstream, NNPCL

(4) Gbenga Komolafe — Member / CEO, NUPRC

(5) Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens — Member

(6) Nicolas Odinuwe — Member

(7) Raphael Samuel — Member

(8) Sadiq Abubakar — Member

(9) Olorundare Sunday Thomas — Member

The statement added that “President Tinubu expects this highly qualified body of experts to discharge their duties with his patriotic resolve to significantly enhance indigenous industry participation in the energy sector as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda’s mandate to achieve the goal of 70% indigenous content and participation in the nation’s energy industry during the lifespan of this administration.”

Job Losses Loom as P&G Quits Nigerian Operations Amid Forex Crisis

 Job Losses Loom as P&G Quits Nigerian Operations Amid Forex Crisis

In a blow to the Nigerian job market, Procter & Gamble (P&G), a global consumer goods powerhouse, is set to exit on-ground operations in Nigeria, impacting at least 5,000 jobs. The decision stems from mounting foreign exchange challenges in the country.

Known for iconic brands like Pampers, Gillette, Ariel, Always, and Oral-B, P&G commenced operations in Nigeria in 1991 and invested millions in the manufacturing sector. Completing its state-of-the-art $300 million plant in Agbara, Ogun State, in 2014 was a testament to its commitment to the Nigerian market. The company claimed to provide over 5,000 jobs directly and indirectly through its offices, suppliers, and distributors, including creating over 200 SME jobs.

However, Chief Financial Officer Andre Schulten delivered a sombre message during the Morgan Stanley Global Consumer & Retail Conference. He revealed that operating in certain markets, notably Nigeria and Argentina, had become increasingly challenging due to macroeconomic realities.

Schulten explained, “The macroeconomic conditions in Nigeria have made it difficult for USD-denominated companies to repatriate US dollars outside the country. Operating and creating US dollar value in markets like Nigeria gets increasingly difficult.”

In response to these challenges, P&G announced a restructuring program, primarily targeting Nigeria and Argentina. Schulten outlined the plan: “We will turn Nigeria into an import-only market, effectively dissolving our footprint on the ground and reverting to an import-only model.”

Despite Nigeria’s status as the largest economy in Africa with a population exceeding 200 million, multinational companies are grappling with macroeconomic hurdles, particularly forex challenges. The Central Bank of Nigeria, led by Governor Olayemi Cardoso, has acknowledged the forex backlog, estimated at $10 billion, and initiated measures to address the situation. The departure of P&G, however, underscores the severity of the challenges foreign companies face in the current economic landscape.

Policemen Arrested for Trying to Extort a Female Biker along Moniya – Iseyin Road

 

The Oyo State Police Command has swiftly responded to a viral video showing two officers attempting to extort a female biker along the Moniya-Iseyin Highway. The lady, who introduced herself and told the officers she is from the Netherlands and on her way to Abuja, was surprised as the officers showed a low level of professionalism by repeatedly asking her for money.

In a statement released on their official Twitter account, the Command confirmed that all individuals involved in the regrettable incident have been arrested and will face immediate disciplinary actions.

The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, sparked outrage and condemnation from the public. In the footage, officers were seen demanding money from the female biker, who kept smiling, stood her ground and refused to comply with their demands.

In response to the incident, the Oyo State Police Command assured the public that supervision will be increased to prevent similar misconduct in the future. They also urged citizens to report any such misconduct to the Xsquad on +2348023535470.

Oyo Lawmaker, Hon Babalola Calls For Immediate Processing, Transmission Of Students’ Certificates,Transcripts In Oyo State Tertiary Institutions

 

The lawmaker representing Ibadan Northeast Constituency 1 at the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Abiodun Babalola has called for the quick processing of certificates and transcripts of graduates of tertiary institutions in Oyo State.

The motion, sponsored by Hon Babalola who is the House committee Chairman on Transportation, was presented on Wednesday at plenary, also called for the activation of online applications and delivery to any locations.

The astute lawmaker noted that the process of approving and preparing statements of results, certificates and transcripts take too long in tertiary institutions in Oyo State and therefore called for proactive actions from the management of various higher institutions of learning in the Stat

The lawmaker said this has led to many missed lifetime opportunities for graduates of these institutions who were often unable to meet deadlines for applications needing their certificates and transcript

Hon Babalola expressed regrets that the delays mounted undue pressure on graduates and was often intentional to encourage bribes before the documents are prepared.s.e.

U17 Girls Volleyball C'ship: Nigeria beat Cameroon to qualify for final

 U17 Girls Volleyball C'ship: Nigeria beat Cameroon to qualify for final

Nigeria has qualified for the final of the 2023 Girls U17 African Nations Volleyball Championship in Abuja on Thursday.

Nigeria defeated Cameroon 3-1 (27-25, 23-25, 26-24, 25-19) in the semi final played at the package B of the Moshood Abiola Stadium.

The head coach of Nigeria U17 Girls, Sunday Akapson said his side will not be carried away with the victory against Cameroon.

The 2003 All African Games silver medallist revealed that the players played according to the instructions of the technical crew.

Akapson thanked supporters of volleyball for coming around to cheer the team to victory.

He said, "I am very excited and very fulfilled but we are not there yet. I do not want to get carried away with the excitement and forget the target tomorrow (Thursday) because we need to finish the race.

"One of the best things we did during the match against Cameroon was boosting the morale of the players. When we were trailing behind Cameroon in the third set, the young setter was shedding tears but I had to encourage her and we won the third set. 

"During the second set, the girls could not withstand the pressure because they are still young but when they got to the bench, the coaches told them they have the ability, capabilities, strength and the skills to win every other set. I am proud that the young girls went into the game and won the third and fourth set. Motivation is very key and I am happy it worked for my team".

He praised the captain of the team, Mirabel Onyegwu for exhibiting her leadership qualities on the court against Cameroon.

Akapson said, "The Captain, Mirabel Onyegwu was on fire in the last two sets against Cameroon. The entire team did very well to win the game for the volleyball community in Nigeria".

The former Captain of Nigeria Customs Service men's team vowed to give the Egyptian team a good fight during the final tomorrow (Thursday).

He said, "Ahead of the finals, we lost the group stage to Egypt and we are going to give them a good fight. It is not going to be an easy game for the Egyptians. This is the first time a Nigerian underage team will be doing this and I tell you that we are going to improve in the final.

"This is just the starting point for these girls. They have a promising future because the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said to prepare any Olympic athletes takes at least ten years; these sets of players are below 17 years".

The captain of Nigeria U17 Girls team, Mirabel Onyegwu was adjudged the Most Outstanding Player in the semifinal.

Nigeria will face Egypt by 4pm on Thursday.

Sports Minister Holds Meeting with NFF, Peseiro Over AFCON Plans

 Sports Minister Holds Meeting with NFF, Peseiro Over AFCON Plans

Calls for greater commitment as AFCON success matters a great deal to the Nigerian people

The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday morning, with the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Coach of the Super Eagles, Jose Peseiro to deliberate on strategic plans and preparations towards the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The collaborative session, held at the Minister’s office in Abuja, focused on fostering synergy and solidifying a comprehensive roadmap to ensure optimal preparations and success for the Nigerian national football team at the highly anticipated tournament.

Senator Enoh reiterated Government's unwavering support for Nigerian football and emphasized the significance of meticulous planning and cohesive strategies to propel the national team to victory at the AFCON.

"Our country is so passionate about football, such that amidst all other sports, football is about the only sport that has an entry in the nation's national budget," the Minister said. "That is how important football is, because whatever happens to it, happens to us as a country."

"After 10 years, the country is thirsty to win the AFCON. It will matter a great deal to the Nigerian people, and to the Government of President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. It is important to not just leave the task to the NFF alone, but the Government is also interested in being able to tell the Nigerian people what is being done in that regard," Senator Enoh added.

He stated that the AFCON represents a pivotal opportunity for the national team to showcase its strength and resilience on the continental stage. The meeting underscores the Ministry's commitment to providing all necessary support and resources to ensure Super Eagles' readiness and competitiveness at the tournament. 

Speaking at the meeting, NFF president, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau assured Nigerians that there is no need to panic, as all hands are on deck, working round the clock to ensure the country flies high at the AFCON in Cote d'Ivoire. 

He added that the NFF is committed to making sure the country performs well at the championship.

Super Eagles gaffer, Coach Jose Peseiro conveyed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts and reiterated his commitment to steering the Nigerian national team towards excellence. 

He highlighted the significance of robust preparation and emphasized that the technical crew will work with the players to sort out grey areas and bring joy to Nigerians.

The Minister commended the dedication and professionalism exhibited by Coach Peseiro and the NFF, stating that necessary efforts are ongoing to settle outstanding issues with the coach and assured him of an enabling environment to help the team thrive.

As the tournament draws nearer, Senator Enoh assured football enthusiasts of the Government's continuous support and urged Nigerians to rally behind the national team as they prepare to compete at the highest level of African football.

The NFF delegation at the meeting also included 1st Vice President, Felix Anyansi-Agwu, General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, Technical Director, Augustine Eguaveon, Chairman, Technical Committee, Sharif Inuwa and Director of international competitions, Dayo Enebi.

The tourney will be held in Côte D'Ivoire between January 13 - February 11, as Nigeria battles Côte D'Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau in the group stage.

SIGNED:

The Media Office of the Honourable Minister of Sports Development.

December 6, 2023.