Ifeoluwa Ayodele Ogunlola

Thursday, July 25, 2024

IMMIGRATION SUSPENDS OFFICER OVER DRUG CHARGES

IMMIGRATION SUSPENDS OFFICER OVER DRUG CHARGES
The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has suspended Mr Akomolafe Gbenga Michael, one of its officers serving at Murtala Muhammad International Airport, for multiple charges of alleged drug trafficking.

Akomolafe is being arraigned at the Federal High Court in Lagos.

In a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration, Kenneth Udo, said Akomolafe has been subjected to internal processes and placed under suspension following the allegations against him.

He added the Service would wait for the outcome of the case which started in May before making further pronouncement on it.

The Service, therefore, fully supports the court proceedings aimed at determining the level of his culpability.

 The Service reaffirms its commitment to excellent service delivery, discipline, and zero tolerance for criminality and will not hesitate to sanction any officer whose conduct is contrary to these ideals,” Udo said.

NLC DENIES WITHDRAWAL FROM NATIONWIDE PROTEST

NLC DENIES WITHDRAWAL FROM NATIONWIDE PROTEST
The Nigeria Labour Congress has denied reports that it has withdrawn from the planned nationwide protest against economic hardship scheduled for August 1.

The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the union cannot withdraw from a protest that it did not organise.

This was contained in a press release signed by Ajaero titled, ‘The Nigeria Labour Congress cannot withdraw from a protest that it did not organise.’

A news report of the withdrawal of the Nigeria Labour Congress from the widely discussed national protest has been brought to our attention. The Nigeria Labour Congress debunks such a story as patently false.

The planned protest has gained traction on social media, where it is trending under the hashtags ‘#EndBadGovernance,’ ‘#TinubuMustGo’ and ‘#Revolution2024.’

The Presidency and police authorities have called on youths to abandon the plan.

Wednesday, July 24, 2024

JUST IN: Oba Adebimpe, Osi Balogun of Ibadanland Is Dead

JUST IN: Oba Adebimpe, Osi Balogun of Ibadanland Is Dead
Lateef Adebimpe, one of the beaded crown-wearing Ibadan high chiefs and elevated Obas, is dead.

TUMITE NEWS learnt that the Osi Balogun of Ibadan breathed his last Wednesday afternoon.

He was said to have been last seen on July 12, at the coronation of another elevated Oba, Owolabi Olakulehin, as Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Details later.

Breaking : Ibadan Airport To Have International Flights in 18 months – Makinde declares

Breaking : Ibadan Airport To Have International Flights in 18 months – Makinde declares

By Rahman Taofeeq

…Gov to constitute project committee soon.
Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has said the state government will achieve the upgrade of Ibadan in 18 months, stating that the state has resources to drive the project.

The governor said this on Wednesday at the Hijrah 1446 luncheon organised by the state government and held at the Presidential Lodge, Secretariat, Ibadan, stating that he will announce a committee that will steer the vision to turn the facility to an international standard before the end of the week.

Governor Makinde assured that before the end of his tenure Hajj pilgrims would be airlifted from Ibadan Airport to the Holy Land of Saudi Arabia.

He used the opportunity to call on the people of the state to strive for a new Oyo State where love, unity and peace will reign, irrespective of religious differences, stressing that his administration will continue to do things in the interest of the people and the development of the state.

Noting that there are challenges both in the state and the country as a whole, Governor Makinde assured that with people’s support, the challenges would be surmounted.

He said: “We thank God for sustaining our lives till today. We appreciate him for a new beginning. The significance of a new year means we should also, as humans, begin new things.

“Today is a day for celebration, because we already observed the Hijrah holiday before now. Part of the things we want you to be doing is to wipe the slate clean and start a new beginning, especially in Oyo State.
“There are a lot of challenges we are facing as a nation and as a state but I have the assurance that we will surmount those challenges.

“Please, support this government. I came to you to beg to apply and you made up your mind to give me the opportunity to serve the state. I will forever remain grateful for the opportunity.

“Many people wanted the same opportunity but could not get it. They had the money to buy it but you didn’t sell it. You all came together irrespective of religious leanings to give us this opportunity and I will, forever, cherish it.

“This is a responsible government and it is your government and we will always do things in the best interest of Oyo State.

“Before the end of this week, I will make announcement on the committee that will champion the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport.

“I am more than confident now that before my tenure ends, those going for Hajj operation would take off from Ibadan to Mecca and Medina.

“When I make the announcement on or before Friday, I will give them 18 months to complete everything, because we have the money to make it happen. So, my message for us is to strive for a new Oyo State where love, unity and peace will reign supreme".

The governor, who used the opportunity to commend the chairman of the Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheik Hashim Olamide Ateere, on the 2024 Hajj operations, said the smoothness of the operations was remarkable.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Deputy Governor of the state, Barr. Bayo Lawal acknowledged the total support of Governor Makinde to the Muslim Ummah, saying this has ensured peace and development in the state.

In his lecture at the event, the guest lecturer, Sheik Najimudeen Alkubroh, extolled the uncommon virtues of Governor Makinde.
He noted that with his style of leadership, he has proven to be the kind of “worthy leader that Nigeria needs.”

The chairman on the occasion, Chief Bayo Oyero, called on Muslims and Islamic scholars to always remember the new calendar year and teach their followers the importance of Hijrah.
In their separate goodwill messages, Professor Kamil Olosho, Professor Musliudeen Yahya and Senator Monsurat Sunmonu emphasised the need for the declaration of Hijrah holiday in the country.

In his speech, the chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Sheikh Atere, appreciated Governor Makinde for his support towards the 2024 Hajj exercise.

The event had in attendance former Deputy Governors of Oyo State, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi and Engr Hamid Gbadamosi; wife of a former governor, Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja; and Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

Others were the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Honourable Justice Iyabo Yerima, represented by Honourable Justice M.A. Adegbola and the President of the Oyo State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice T.M. Abdulganiyu.

Also in attendance were Chief of Staff, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of Oyo State, Alhaji Abdulganiyu Agbotomokekere; members of the League of Imams and Alfas and other top government functionaries.

Signed
Sulaimon Olanrewaju
Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor
July 24, 2024.


Unchecked Illegal Mining Must Stop- Oyo Govt



Unchecked Illegal Mining Must Stop- Oyo Govt

The Oyo State Government has said that the time has come to address the menace of illegal mining in the State, as these unlawful activities have gone unchecked.

The government said illegal mining has caused untold damage to the environment and hasjeopardized the health and livelihoods of its people.

This disclosure was made today by the Director General, Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA), Engr. Abiodun Oni, during a stakeholders' sensitization and consultative forum held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Agodi Ibadan.

According to him, "this administration will no longer tolerate any form of illegal mining in the State and today's consultative forum will focus on the Executive Order 001/2023, which majors on the protection of mining communities in Oyo State."

"Illegal mining results in millions being siphoned from the State, and the State and Federal Governments do not benefit from this act. Therefore, it is imperative for the government to take responsibility and for Kings and Baales to be involved by signing consent letters", he said. 

Engr. Oni emphasized that the State Government will be involved in all activities within the communities, including the Community Development Agreement (CDA). This ensures that any investor's activities are regularized, benefiting the State, Federal Government, Local Government, and the community.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Anthony Ogunsola, pointed out that many of the current challenges are due to the infiltration of unknown individuals into communities, leading to insecurity, kidnapping, robbery, killings, and other social vices.

He urged the Kings and Baales to assist the government in curbing these issues, noting that Governor Seyi Makinde's signing of Executive Order 001/2023 has brought relief to the communities.

Hon. Ogunsola also appealed to the citizens of Oyo State to continue supporting the current administration to enjoy further benefits of democracy.

In his goodwill message, the Commandant, NSCDC, Oyo State Command, Padonu Augustine, assured that they are committed to maintaining safe and secure mineralized communities, which will boost the economy and create opportunities for investors. 

Mr. Augustine added that the Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has recently adopted a proactive approach, in close collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals, by training some corps personnel as mines marshals to tackle illegal mining in the State.


E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.
July 24, 2024.

Sports: Ogunbote Seals 2-Year Contract Extension With 3SC

Sports: Ogunbote Seals  2-Year Contract Extension With 3SC
Technical Adviser of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, Gbenga Ogunbote, has officially extended his stay with the Oluyole Warriors.

After weeks of discussion with the management of the club, the Oracle, as the widely traveled tactician' is fondly called,  agreed to renew his contract with the club, in a deal that will see him staying with the club for the next two years.

Speaking after signing the contract extension papers, the former Rangers International, Lobi Stars, Sunshine Stars, defunct Sharks FC of Port Harcourt and Remo Stars' sweat merchant, expressed joy over the development.

"I am thrilled to announce that I have signed  a 2-year contract extension as the head coach of Shooting Stars.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this talented group of athletes and I am excited about the future we will build together," said the soft spoken gaffer.

He expressed appreciation to the management of the club,and the fans, expressing the belief that the team will achieve in the coming season.

"I say a big thank you to the organization and fans for their support,  and I can't wait to see what we can achieve in the coming years. UP SHOOTING, " stated coach Ogunbote

Tosin Omojola

Meda Officer, 3SC

"Transforming Oyo State's Landscape: The Maverick Leadership of Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams By Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez

"Transforming Oyo State's Landscape: The Maverick Leadership of Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams By Moyosoreoluwa Olamilekan Eldreez 
Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde , FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, the Oyo State Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development has witnessed a revolutionary transformation, thanks to the maverick leadership of Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, the Honorable Commissioner.

Akin-Funmilayo's appointment marked the beginning of a new era in the ministry, characterized by innovation, technology adoption, and a commitment to excellence. His pro-tech approach has streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and improved service delivery.

Key Achievements:

- Digitization of land records and title searches
- Introduction of online platforms for property registration and payment
- Implementation of a Geographic Information System (GIS) for urban planning

- Collaboration with private sector partners to develop affordable housing projects

Akin-Funmilayo's transformative leadership has earned him recognition as a:-

 Maverick: Challenging conventional wisdom and embracing innovative solutions

Transformer: Revolutionizing the ministry's operations and service delivery

Pro-Tech: Leveraging technology to drive efficiency and progress

His commitment to excellence and innovation has made him a shining example of the Seyi Makinde administration's vision for a better Oyo State.

Under Akin-Funmilayo's leadership, the ministry is poised for even greater achievements, transforming the state's landscape and improving the lives of its citizens."

OYRTMA Recruits 500 New Officers


OYRTMA Recruits 500 New Officers

.commences training exercise
The Oyo State government has recruited not fewer than 500 new officers into the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), aimed at enhancing traffic regulation across the state. 

This was announced by the Chairman, OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd), during an ongoing training session at NYSC Orientation Camp in Iseyin.

Adesagba emphasized that the training is intended to equip the new officers with the necessary skills to effectively carry out their duties on the roads. 

Initially, Governor Makinde approved recruitment of 338 officers, but due to high demand, an additional 162 recruitment was approved upon request.

The Chairman noted the diversity of the newly employed officers from Ogbomosho, Ibarapa, Oke-Ogun, Oyo Town, and Ibadan, are undergoing training from July 19th to July 29th. 

The training covers registration, regimental parade, drills, lectures and physical fitness assessments.

Upon successful completion of the training, the recruits will fill various positions within the agency, ranging from GL.08 Road Traffic Officer 02 (RTO) for B.SC holders to GL.03 Road Traffic Assistant II (RTA).

Major Adekoya expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for providing employment opportunities, particularly for the youth, thereby alleviating unemployment pressures in the state.

He therefore urged the new employees to diligently follow instructions from instructors and to view this opportunity as advantageous, preparing them to fulfill their responsibilities effectively in any assigned role.

The event witnessed lectures on various topics by Commander Femi Ilugbon (rtd), a former Road safety Corps commandant who spoke on Basic Introduction to Traffic Management; Dr. Saheed Adesokan spoke on Traffic Management Strategy while Mr. Abiodun Obisesan spoke on the History of OYRTMA, its mission, vision and functions among others.


E-signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State. 
July 23, 2024.

Oyo Gov't Trains 33 LGA Chairmen, 351 Councillors


Oyo Gov't Trains 33 LGA Chairmen, 351 Councillors

The Oyo State government, has organized an induction workshop for the Thirty-Three (33) Local Government Chairmen, Vice Chairmen and Councillors in the State.

The workshop was in collaboration with KloverHarris Innovative Solutions Limited was held in Ibadan recently

 Governor, Seyi Makinde who said the induction workshop is aimed at keeping the officers abreast of current global best practices for effective services delivery.

Represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo, Makinde implored them to be agents of change.

He equally urged them to strive to be the best in the course of discharging their duties, giving room for developmental strides in all sectors.

In his words, "before dwelling on the significance of this gathering, I will like to extend my profound appreciation to His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE for his immense support for the enhancement and development of human resources.

"I am particularly delighted that Oyo State has witnessed tremendous progress under the able leadership of His Excellency which is a testimony to the sterling qualities of our Governor. Oyo State has been in the front burner of progress, peace and tranquility. Part of which is the conduct of Local Government election as and when due which has brought monumental development to the grassroots.

"I have no doubt that, you are all men of impeccable character and pedigree which resulted in your election into the various posts at your respective Councils. I want you all to replicate same gesture at the various Councils, thereby channeling all available resources towards improving the quality of life of the citizens. By so doing, it will place the State on high pedestal.

"At this juncture, may I state that in the attainment of excellence, much expectation is placed on you and the offices you occupy. It is imperative to state that the State Government cannot achieve all these alone. We all need to fasten our belts in order to make available the dividends of democracy for our people.

Winston Churchill said "continuous effort nor strength or intelligence is the key to unlocking our potentials". 

"You have all been called to serve, therefore, I enjoin you all to consolidate the gains of the present aministration through robust political, socio-economic policies based on time tested principles. I wish to affirm the commitment of the State Government, under the able leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde to the total wellbeing of the entire citizenry inspite of the judgement of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Local Government autonomy.

"Let me assure you that the training consultant,Klover Harris Limited was carefully chosen, having excelled in its reputation of providing world class training for all calibres of Public Servants. Premised on that, it is believed that the training modules will impact on all our participants the best practices in line with the contemporary world. Let is make the best use of this opportunity.

The training was attended by all the Local Government area Chairmen, their Vices and Councillors from each ward.

E-signed:
Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Hon. Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.
July 23, 2024.

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

IGBALAJOBI PEN DOWN HEARTFELT APPRECIATION FOR THE SUCCESSFUL NIKKAHI CEREMONY OF HIS DAUGHTER

IGBALAJOBI PEN DOWN HEARTFELT APPRECIATION FOR THE SUCCESSFUL NIKKAHI CEREMONY OF HIS DAUGHTER

 


The leader of the house, Ibadan North East Legislative Council, Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi (Ese rere) appreciates all for being part of the success story of Asmau & Musa Nikkahi ceremony, which was held on 20th August 2024 at Ibadan North East Local Government, Iwo Road Ibadan.

 

First and foremost Igbalajobi Appreciate Allah for keeping them alive both the couple and the both families and for making the day a glorious one, he also extend his greetings to Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo (O mu yes), The Executive chairman, Ibadan North East Local government, who also double as the chief host of the day for his support, Hon. Gbenga Ayinde Adewusi (Arole), The former Chairman Ibadan North East Local Government who also double as the Father of the day, Hon. Akeem Oladeji, The fulltime commissioner SUBEB, Chief Isiaka Fatokun (Baba Abuye), The PDP party Chairman, Ibadan North East Local Government and all the Local government Executive member, All the Ward Chairmen of PDP in Ibadan north East Local Government, All Councilors of the Legislative Council of Ibadan North East Local Government, The entire Igbalajobi families, The entire Rasheed Families and all the well-wishers.

 

He appreciates their support Spiritually, Phisically, Morally and Financially to the success of this wonderful Nikkahi Ceremony, he also extend his warm greetings to all Islamic scholars for their prayer for the program before and on the day of the Nikkahi Ceremony.

 

Signed:

Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi (Ese Rere)

The Leader of the House,

Ibadan North East Legislative Council


Monday, July 22, 2024

Oyo State Advances Gas Infrastructure with Shell Nigeria Gas Partnership

Oyo State Advances Gas Infrastructure with Shell Nigeria Gas Partnership

I, Honorable Commissioner Akin-Funmilayo Williams, am delighted to represent the Ministry of Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development at this significant gathering. On 10th July 2024, we mark a crucial step towards enhancing Oyo State's gas infrastructure, courtesy of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, OYSG, and Shell Nigeria Gas.

As we prepare for the completion of this vital project, I want to emphasize the importance of collaboration and effective stakeholder engagement. This initiative will not only boost our state's economic growth but also improve the lives of our citizens.

Our ministry is committed to creating an enabling environment for sustainable development, and this gas infrastructure project aligns with our goals.

We appreciate the efforts of all parties involved and urge continued cooperation to ensure successful implementation.

Let us work together to harness the potential of this project, fostering economic prosperity and a better future for Oyo State.

Signed,
Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo
Honorable Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development

Sunday, July 21, 2024

Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi Provides Free Transportation for SUBEB Applicants Outside Ibadan (Check Pick-up Stations)

This initiative was announced in a press statement signed by the JDS Support Group, a political movement supporting Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s gubernatorial ambition for 2027, and made available to newsmen.


According to the statement, this free bus initiative is part of Chief Sanusi’s commitment to providing necessary support to the teeming youths seeking employment. The buses will transport applicants from Oyo, Oke Ogun, Ogbomosho, and Ibarapa zones to the University of Ibadan DCL, CBT Centre, Ajibode, Ibadan, and back to their respective pick-up locations.


The pick-up locations are as follows:

– Oyo: Owode
– Oke Ogun: Saki
– Ibarapa: Igboora
– Ogbomosho: Taki

For more details, please contact the JDS Support Group convener at 07036078155.

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES JUSTICE STELLA ANUKAM ON RE-ELECTION TO AFRICAN COURT ON HUMAN RIGHTS

PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES JUSTICE STELLA ANUKAM ON RE-ELECTION TO AFRICAN COURT ON HUMAN RIGHTS
President Bola Tinubu congratulates Justice Stella Anukam on her re-election as Judge of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights for another term of six years.

Justice Anukam was re-elected at the African Union Mid-Year Coordination Meeting Executive Council in Accra, Ghana, on Friday.

The Nigerian obtained her law degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife (formerly known as University of Ife), Osun State, Nigeria, in 1984, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in August 1985. 

She is also a chartered secretary, chartered arbitrator, and seasoned administrator.

Justice Anukam has served as the former Director of Special Programmes at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies in Abuja, Nigeria, and as the former Director of the International and Comparative Law Department of the Federal Ministry of Justice.

President Tinubu commends Justice Anukam for her contributions to the development of human rights jurisprudence on the continent and encourages her to continue to bring her invaluable knowledge and insights to the African Court. 

The President states that his administration will continue to support the candidature of competent and qualified Nigerians for international positions, noting the country’s strategic importance in the global community.

The African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights is a continental court established by African states to ensure the protection of human and people's rights in Africa. 

It complements the functions of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights. 

The court is composed of eleven judges nominated by member states of the AU and elected by the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government. 

Nigeria is a state party to the Protocol establishing the Court, having ratified it in 2004.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale
Special Adviser to the President
(Media & Publicity)

July 20, 2024

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Another New Era Begins, Dr. GLORIOUS' Says as He Swears-in Supervisory Councillors and SAs

Another New Era Begins, Dr. GLORIOUS' Says as He Swears-in Supervisory Councillors and SAs
The Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS', has urged the newly sworn-in Supervisory Councillors and Special Assistants to start their work immediately for the development of the community that has entrusted them with their nomination.

In a press statement signed by his spokesperson, Mr. Rahmon Alawode, Dr. GLORIOUS' stated, "We are here to work together to continue emulating our leader, Governor Seyi Makinde, as he effectively serves the state."
"A new era began with my inauguration as the Executive Chairman by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, followed by the installation of my Vice, Hon. Windapo Oluwole, as the political head and administrator of INUKAN LCDA. The inauguration of the Councillors, and now, it is your time. Get to work immediately as your portfolios are announced," 

As we move forward, it is essential that each of you takes your new positions as a privilege and a responsibility. The future of our community depends on your dedication and commitment," Dr. GLORIOUS' emphasized, he concluded.

In their joint Goodwill messages, SSA to Governor on SDG, Hon. Mufutau Ogunremi, the Director General, Oyo State Liaison Office Lagos and Abuja, Dr. Ezekiel Oladimeji Temitope, PDP Ona Ara Party Chairman, Hon. Mosobalaje Bakare and Chief Waheed Ajao Adurodekun charged the newly sworn in appointees to work together with the office of the chairman and other stakeholders to develop the local government Council.

Others at the event are: Leader of the House, Hon. Abolade Yerima, Chief of Staff, Hon Isiaka Arinola, Head of Local Government Administration, Dr. Atoyebi among others 

Below is the list of the Inaugurated appointees: 

SUPERVISORY COUNCILLORS:
- Sunday Adeniji
- Kamoru Oduola
- Adeniran Adekola
- Abiola Jubril Tolani
- Yakubu Adurodekun
- Temilade Tosin Olaoye
- Idris Olapade
- Amidu Ajibade
- Akinnawonu Esther Olusola
- Saheed Hassan Adeyemo
- Taofeeq Jamiu Adeyemi

SPECIAL ASSISTANTS:
- Idris Gbedeogun
- Lukman Adekunle
- Sogo Gbaroye
- Muyiwa Akingbala
- Buliaminu Ajani
- Adetunji Abiona
- Odumeru Adekunle
- Alao Olalekan
- Lawal Mutiat Bolaji
- Salaudeen Idowu Ibrahim
- Badmus Saheed Olawale

Thank you.

Signed,
Mr. Rahmon Alawode  
CPS, Office of the Chairman, Ona Ara Local Government

Friday, July 19, 2024

Labour Leaders Praise President Tinubu Over Approval of N70,000 Minimum Wage and Promise Review After Three Years


President Bola Tinubu on Thursday in Abuja increased the federal government’s offer on the national minimum wage from N62,000 to N70,000, with an assurance that it will be reviewed after three years, instead of five years.

In a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and that of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the Presidential Villa, President Tinubu said he had to intervene in the negotiations, knowing the economic challenges faced by many Nigerians, and the need to provide urgent succour.


“I have heard all your presentations. You came here with the intention to get something on behalf of your members. It has been tough globally. And if you review my track record, I have never been found wanting in ameliorating the problems of workers. I belong to the people and to all of you in leadership. Without you, this job is not interesting.


“You challenged the thinking faculty of leadership, and we have reviewed the position. I have consulted widely, and when the tripartite committee submitted their reports, I reviewed them again and started to think and rethink.


“Last week, I brought the workload to you because we have a timeline. We have a problem, and we recognize that you have a problem too. We are in the same economy. We are in the same country. We may have different rooms, different addresses, and different houses; we are just members of one family that must care for each other.



“We must look at the parameters of things. Here, I have a speed limit, and I must pay attention to traffic warnings; slippery when wet, curved roads, and be careful not to have an accident. That is why I went as far as having this meeting today.


“We are driving this economy together. Let us look at the tenure of review. Let us agree on that, and affirm three years. Two years is too short. We affirm three years. We will review.



“I am going to move from the tripartite committee. I am going to edge a little bit forward, looking at the review that we have done. Yes, no one in the federal establishment should earn less than N70,000. So, we are going to benchmark at N70,000,’’ the President said.


President Tinubu explained that renewing the hope of Nigerians extends to providing infrastructure that will improve their livelihoods and create an inclusive economy that all can participate and benefit.



The President said the government was committed to reducing the cost of transportation with the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas-powered buses, which will be cheaper and efficient, and also assured the labour unions of providing buses that will be deployed across the country.


President Tinubu also said the entitlements of members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities and Allied Institutions (NASU) will be considered, urging the Ministries of Finance, and Budget & Economic Planning to look at the possibilities of clearing the backlog.


At the meeting, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, thanked the President for his consideration of issues as the “Father of the Nation’’ and scheduling two meetings to resolve the initial impasse.


“Mr. President, at the tripartite meeting, and the resolutions of the government, Organized Private Sector and labour unions; we were all united as one family to promote and grow our economy, and deepen our democracy, by implication to the benefit of all. Basically, that is what we are saying today. We have a listening President here,’’ the Secretary to the Government of the Federation said.


The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, and that of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Festus Osifo, thanked the President for creating time to host two meetings on the review of the national minimum wage.


The two labour leaders acknowledged that at the last meeting, the President directed the rescheduling of an official trip in order to attend the second meeting.


The labour leaders also expressed their appreciation to the President, applauding him of his clear show for commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers.


Chief Ajuri Ngelale

Special Adviser to the President

(Media & Publicity)

July 18, 2024