Just In: Oyo Gov’t receives deployment of 20 CNG buses

Oyo State Government through the Pacesetter Transport service (PTS), has received deployment of 20 CNG buses and one Keke Napep as part of efforts by the federal government to cushion the effect of subsidy removal.

During the brief handling ceremony held at the PTS conference room on Monday, the Chairman and Sole Administrator, Hon. Salami Dikko, who expressed gratitude to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Tinubu over the laudable initiative, thanked the Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, for appointing him as the chairman of PTS.

The chairman who disclosed that when he came in, there were five working buses and had to increase the buses to 81, noted that PTS is now wearing a new look with several laudable initiatives and development.

He maintained that the CNG is the best approach to solve problems in the state, stressing that the Governor of Oyo state is keying into the project to cushion the effect of the subsidy removal.

Dikko however urged the PI-CNG to provide additional one hundred (100) CNG buses to cover more routes in Oyo state.

Earlier, the CEO CNG, Engr. Micheal Oluwagbemi who expressed his delight to set the pace for CNG platform program, said that their visit to Oyo state is to fulfill the promise of president Tinubu made during campaign.

He noted that the deployment of CNG buses in the country is to address issues affecting Nigerians particularly on petrol importation, among others.

According to him, the deployment is to end the era of enriching the rich alone who he described as cabitocrat for the benefit of everyone and stressed that the compressed natural gas is a source of fuel that is abundant in Nigeria to ameliorate hardship.

He said: “Ibadan for generation has always been attractive since it was founded and it’s a place where commerce thrive and a state of secret billionaires.

“This is to show and demonstrate that Oyo state is indeed Asiwaju and a place to first launch the CNG initiative.

“President Tinubu is asking us to use our gas to thrive transportation, industries, produce more foods and fertilizers as well as other things that will make life easier for the people.

“We are beginning to do the right thing but this requires us to taste some pains. We can’t go back to subsidize our own impoverishment. As a team, we are determined to show our commitment.

“We are here to present 20 buses as sustainable partnership with Pacesetter Transport Service (PTS) to generate income because they are asset. So, we need more Dikkos so that we can run more sustainable mass transit. We can effectively ensure that the future of Oyo state is more brighter as well as Nigeria.”

In his goodwill message, the Special Assistant to Governor Makinde on Environment, Engr. Ademola Aderinto, said CNG is far cheaper form of energy noting that the initiative will give a longer and healthier life as it will also prevent emission of carbon monoxide always caused by combustion engines.

“The way to go for Nigeria is CNG, natural gas. And it delight that Oyo state is rolling this out first. We want to thank President Tinubu and also His Excellency, Seyi Makinde, for embracing changes.

In attendance included chairman OYSROMA, Hon. Busoye Ogunlade other government functionaries and host of others.

3SC Chairman Akoro Appointed into NPFL Board

3SC Chairman Akoro Appointed into NPFL Board

The Executive Chairman of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, Honourable Babatunde Olaniyan Akoro, has been appointed into the board of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The sports administrator cum politician's appointment was confirmed via a message by the secretary of the board, Danladi Ibrahim.

The retired referee replaces Abdullahi Umar of Doma United FC, who vacated the membership position, following the demotion of the Gombe State based side.

The NPFL Board, while welcoming the 3SC boss, expressed confidence that his vision and expertise will help drive the NPFL to new heights.

The former Deputy Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, is texpected to bring his wealth of experience to bear, with positive impacts on the Nigerian league and football generally.

Tosin Omojola

Media Officer, 3SC

Ibadan East LCDA Political head Visit Iso Agbo, Oranyan Market, commiserate with the trader over the market inferno

 Ibadan East LCDA Political head Visit Iso Agbo, Oranyan Market, commiserate with the trader over the market inferno

Hon. Mary Esomior Visit Oranyan Market today with the entire member of the legislative council of Ibadan North East Local Government led by Rt. Hon. Abdulmajeed Adekola Igbalajobi (Leader of the house).

They felt concerned about the incident that occurred in the market in which some shop were razed down by fire with goods worth of Millions of Naira.

During their visitation, they console the victim and pledge them government intervention that will ease them.

They also urge them to be vigilant and put all precautions needed to prevent fire incident

Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious Launches Information Jingles for Key Sectors in Ona Ara LG. (VIDEOS)

 Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious Launches Information Jingles for Key Sectors in Ona Ara LG. (VIDEOS)

The Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious, has launched a series of information jingles focusing on Education, Transportation, and Environmental sectors, with an additional emphasis on attracting investors to the local government area. These initiatives are part of ongoing efforts to enhance public awareness and improve community engagement in key areas of development.

In a strong message accompanying the launch, Dr. Glorious also issued a warning to traffic and environmental offenders, emphasizing the government's commitment to maintaining order and sustainability within the local government.

MINISTER OF INTERIOR ORDERS IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGED UNACCEPTABLE FEEDING CONDITIONS AT AFOKANG CUSTODIAL CENTRE

MINISTER OF INTERIOR ORDERS IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION INTO ALLEGED UNACCEPTABLE FEEDING CONDITIONS AT AFOKANG CUSTODIAL CENTRE

1. The Honourable Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken grave exception to a disturbing video report on Facebook alleging that inmates at Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar are being subjected to inhumane treatment, including being served poorly cooked beans as breakfast.

2. The Minister views this incident as a serious breach of the standards of care and dignity to which inmates are entitled. 

3. He has directed a comprehensive and urgent investigation into this matter, and those responsible will be held accountable.

4. The Minister warns that any lapses in the quality of food, sanitation, and welfare of inmates will not be tolerated, adding that the service must ensure inmates are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

5. The Minister of Interior will not condone any form of mistreatment or neglect of individuals in custody. 

6. The findings of the investigation will be made public, and necessary disciplinary actions will be taken.

Signed:

Babatunde Alao

SA Media and Publicity

Omituntun Shuttle Transformation: Steering Oyo State Towards a Modern Transport System

Omituntun Shuttle Transformation: Steering Oyo State Towards a Modern Transport System

In a recent interview, Dr. Ibraheem Oladeji Salami, popularly known as “Dikko,” who serves as the sole administrator and chairman of the Oyo State Pacesetter Transport Services (PTS), spoke extensively about the strides made by the transport service since he assumed the office and shared plans for the future. The interview, held on the Fresh FM Radio 109.5 and hosted by Mayor Isaac Brown, was part of Dr. Salami's commitment to transparency and accountability.

Reflecting on his first year in office, Dr. Ibraeem Oladej Salami Dikko outlined the remarkable progress made at PTS. When he assumed leadership, the transport service had only five active buses, with many others out of service. Today, the fleet has expanded to 81 buses, a significant achievement that underscores the efficiency, doggedness and effectiveness of his administration.

“We started with just five operational buses, and now we have 81. This didn’t happen overnight; it took careful planning, dedication, and a focus on the needs of our people,” Dr. Salami noted. This expansion has allowed PTS to extend its services to several towns across Oyo State, including Oyo, Ogbomoso, Ibarapa, and Iseyin. Additionally, routes within Ibadan have increased from just two (2) (Ojo and Challenge) to twenty-eight 28, serving more areas and bringing much-needed convenience to residents.

Another significant advancement is the implementation of an effective card payment system. With over 250,000 subscribers, this system has streamlined fare collection and made it easier for passengers to access PTS services. Dr. Salami also highlighted the transport service’s commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities and students, by offering free rides to those who present valid identification.

“We’ve made provisions for special people, including persons with disabilities and students, to travel for free. All they need is an ID,” he explained.

Dr. Salami spoke passionately about the internal transformation at PTS, emphasizing the shift from an unstructured management system to a more organized and hierarchical structure with clearly defined roles and responsibilities. This change has improved operational efficiency and has also empowered the staff, enabling them to perform their duties more effectively.

He also touched on the improvements in operational and repair services, which have been pivotal in ensuring that buses are always in good condition and ready for service. “We’ve put systems in place to make sure our buses are well-maintained and that any repairs are carried out quickly. This is crucial for our operations,”.

As Dr. Salami enters his second year at the helm of PTS, he has set his sights on further expansion and improvement. One of his primary goals is the procurement of mini-buses that will serve roads in towns and rural areas, ensuring that even the most remote parts of Oyo State are connected.

“We’re planning to acquire mini-buses that can serve the smaller roads in our towns and rural areas. We want everyone in Oyo State to have access to reliable transportation, no matter where they live,” he said.

Another key initiative is the introduction of insurance schemes for intercity travel. This move aims to provide passengers with peace of mind and protect them against any unforeseen circumstances during their journeys. “Safety is a priority for us, and we want to make sure that our passengers are covered when they travel between states,” Dr. Salami emphasized.

Dr. Salami also revealed several innovative plans designed to generate revenue and ensure the sustainability of PTS. These include hiring out the buses for private events, expanding coverage to interstate routes, and constructing a mini-terminal that will feature a hotel and cinema. These ventures are expected to create additional income streams and enhance the overall experience for passengers.

“We’re thinking beyond just transportation. We want to create a hub where people can relax, watch a movie, or stay overnight if they need to. This is all part of our plan to make PTS a self-sustaining entity,” he explained.

Looking to the future, Dr. Salami shared plans to introduce PTS taxi services, with an initial fleet of 50 taxis. This service, along with a ride-hailing app, aims to offer residents of Oyo State a convenient and comfortable way to get around, further cementing PTS’s role as a pacesetter in public transportation.

“We’re not stopping at buses. We’re introducing PTS taxi services, and we’re also working on a ride-hailing app that will make it easier for people to get a ride whenever they need one,” he said.

Mayor Isaac Brown, the host of the program, commended Dr. Salami for his “innovation, creativity, and management acumen”. He praised the Chairman Sole Administrator for his efforts in mobilizing the staff and transforming PTS into a modern, efficient transport service being first of its kind in the history.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Salami expressed his gratitude to the Governor of Oyo State for his trust and commitment to service. He assured the people of Oyo State that PTS would continue to improve and expand, delivering better services to meet their needs.

“We’re here to serve you better, and we’re committed to making PTS the best it can be.” Dr. Salami concluded.

The future looks brighter for PTS Oyo State under the overall leader His Excellency Engr Sir Dsc GSSRS KJW Abiodun Saheed Sa'ad Seyi Makinde FNSE leadership, with exciting plans on the horizon that promise to enhance transportation services across Oyo State and beyond. 

Guess what?, Oyo State leads, other states follow.

Ona Ara Boss, Dr Temitope GLORIOUS Felicitates with Hon. Ramata Dabo on Her Birthday

Ona Ara Boss, Dr Temitope GLORIOUS Felicitates with Hon. Ramata Dabo on Her Birthday

The Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS, extends his warmest felicitations to Hon. Ramata Agberemi Dabo, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Local Government Affairs, on the occasion of her birthday anniversary.

In his message, Dr. GLORIOUS described Hon. Ramata Dabo as a relentless goal-getter whose dedication to her duties has been instrumental in advancing the sustainable development initiatives of Governor Seyi Makinde's administration. Her tireless efforts in supporting the local government system and ensuring its smooth operation have not gone unnoticed, and her contributions have greatly enhanced the effectiveness of governance at the grassroots level.

"Hon. Ramata Dabo exemplifies the spirit of commitment and excellence in public service. Her unwavering support for the sustainability and developmental goals of our dear Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has been a driving force in our collective efforts to improve the lives of our people across Oyo State," Dr. GLORIOUS stated.

As she celebrates another year of life, Dr. GLORIOUS wishes Hon. Ramata Dabo continued success, good health, and greater achievements in her service to the state and its people. He expressed confidence that her steadfast dedication will continue to inspire others and contribute significantly to the ongoing progress in Oyo State.

"On behalf of the good people of Ona Ara Local Government, I wish Hon. Ramata Dabo a joyous and fulfilling birthday celebration. May she be blessed with the strength and wisdom to continue her outstanding service to our community," Dr. GLORIOUS concluded.

Ona Ara LG Chairman hold Ona Ara Stakeholders Meeting.

Ona Ara LG Chairman hold Ona Ara Stakeholders Meeting.

_Unveil official database link

_ lay foundation of Oba Tajudeen Ajibola Ona Ara Traditional Hall

Otun Balogun of Ibadanland and the Traditional Head of Ona Ara Local Government, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Chief Bayo Oyero along with Jagunmolu Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, and other esteemed traditional leaders, gathered for a significant stakeholders' meeting.

During this meeting, they unveiled the official database link (apply here) for all indigenes and residents of Ona Ara Local Government. This initiative is part of their ongoing efforts to build a comprehensive database that will aid in better service delivery and community development.

They also proudly inaugurated the Database Committee, which will oversee this crucial project. The committee members are as follows:

- Mr. Abiola Adewale

- Ibrahim A Oladimeji 

- Olaleye Afeez Aderemi

- Olasupo Bukunmi

- Yusuf Fatai Yusfat 

- Yisau Kehinde Adewale

- Ajao Musa Bolaji

- Olanipekun Fatal Adewale

- Sulaimon Sheriff 

- Abu Hamed

- Hon. Mahruf Adekunle

In addition, the foundation of the Oba Tajudeen Ajibola Ona Ara Traditional Hall was laid at the Local Government Secretariat in Akanran. This hall will serve as a cultural and administrative hub for our community.

The event was graced by prominent figures, including:

- Oba Adebowale Kamorudeen Adeyemi, JP - Oniladuntan of Laduntan

- HRH, Oba Mudasiru Obisesan - Alararo of Araromi Aperin

- HRH, Oba (Engr.) Nureni Yusuf Adegbenro - Alajia of Ajia

- HRH, Oba Muili Mosaderin - Ololosunde of Olosunde

- HRH, Oba Yekini Obisesan - Alakanran of Akanran

- Ona Ara Association of Baales

- SSA to the Governor on SDG, Hon. Mufutau Ogunremi

- PDP Ona Ara Chairman, Hon. Mosobalaje Bakare

- Chief Waheed Ajao Adurodekun

- Supervisory Councillors, Special Assistants, Babaloja, and Iyaloja of Ona Ara, Artisans, and the Landlords and Landlady Association.

We encourage all indigenes and residents of Ona Ara Local Government to register their details using the provided link. Your participation is vital for the progress and development of our community.

E-signed,

Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS  

Executive Chairman, Ona Ara Local Government

NPFL: Shooting Stars Unveil Players, Kits

Shooting Stars Unveil Players, Kits

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan on Monday, unveiled some fresh legs to be paraded for the 2024/25 season.

Also unveiled were the home, away and alternative jerseys to be used by the team in the coming season.

The eight players unveiled included, goalkeepers Abiodun Akande from Rivers United, Mustapha Lawal from Sunshine Stars,  center defender, Ojietefian Sylvester, from Enyimba, left back, Ikouwem Udom, who joins from Anenir Sportif De la Marsar of Tunisia, midfielder, Abubakar Aliu from Lobi Stars, Adebayo Abayomi formerly of Remo Stars,  Bolaji Sakin Simeon, who is teaming up with the Oluyole Warriors from Congolese side, AS Otoho and striker, Ayanrinde Samuel,who last featured for Sporting Lagos FC.

While speaking during the unveiling, Executive  Chairman of the Oluyole Warriors, Honourable Babatunde Olaniyan Akoro, disclosed that the club, hopes to improve on the performance of last season, hence the recruitment of quality legs who will be able to complement the efforts of the retained players.

He disposed that the team retained most of the best legs from last season's squad, in order to give room for continuity, explaining that the club deliberately ensured coach Gbenga Ogunbote remained with the club for that purpose as well.

Honourable Olaniyan, who revealed that the club would be gunning for the league title this season, also stated that few more players would be still be unveiled as the Ibadan soccer lords intensify efforts for a rewarding 2024/25 season.

Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, in his own words, said the recruitments were done to specifically solve the problems encountered in some departments last season.

While speaking, the General Manager of the club, Dimeji Lawal, expressed hope that the new additions to the Oluyole Warriors will add quality to the team, assuring the followers of the club a successful outing.

Oyo Gov't Commences 60-day Building Permit Amnesty For Property Owners

Oyo Gov't Commences 60-day Building Permit Amnesty For Property Owners

The Oyo State government has commenced a 60-day Online Building Permit Amnesty (OYBPA) program, aimed at regularizing buildings that were constructed without proper government approval.

OYOBPA programme kick started officially today the 26th August 2024 and ends on the 27th October 2024.

The programme will also regularize those in violation of building regulations in the state and process new approvals within this 60-days window.

The Commissioner for Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo, stated this on Monday, in Ibadan, the State capital.

Mr. Akin-Funmilayo said the scheme is in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s transformation and sustainable development agenda, designed to enable the government to improve urban planning and enhance the security and safety of lives and properties within our dear state. 

He added that the government has also approved that property owners can now get or regularize their building permits within the sixty (60) days amnesty period at a 20% discounted rate. 

"This is to allow the good people of Oyo State to get their building permits faster, easier, and cheaper as the government will embark on massive enforcement of building permits after the amnesty period", he said.

"This amnesty period lasts for sixty (60) days, and it is advised that all property owners (residential, commercial, industrial, educational, health facilities, etc.) within the state who have no building permit and have engaged in unauthorized development or are currently planning to commence development should harness this opportunity", he added.

The OYBPA, which is majorly an online process, will enable property owners to process their permits without falling victims to touts and middlemen.

He gave the guarantee of property owners getting an authentic permit which will prevent any further interference by the authority as regards their development as long as they adhere to the provisions of the approval.

Application process for the amnesty period has started online across the 33 LG. 

"At the end of these exercise, a amnesty certificate will be issued to all who took advantage of this opportunity" he affirmed.

"In the same vein, we therefore plead with member of the public and our directors of zonal planning authorities to strictly adhere to the principle of granting building permit in the State".

However he said properties illegally occupying State Government acquisition zone; Properties within the circular road or circular road set back; Properties directly under the power line zone; Properties within the disallowable proximity to dam, stream will not be granted amnesty. 

Also Properties built on the road; within pipeline setback; and properties under Court / financial crimes matters will not be granted amnesty. 

He said this scheme, like every other Seyi Makinde initiative, promises to be great, seamless, and a worthwhile investment for the good people of Oyo State.

He said, "Let’s support the government to make Oyo State better, safer, and more viable".

The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Mofoluke Adebiyi said the scheme will regularise the database of properties in the state and ensure more security across all local governments in the State.

She enjoined owners of structures constructed without building plans to key into the initiative.

According to her, the process also allows property owners who are not currently within the state to take advantage of the online amnesty window to either regularize or get a fresh approval for their building and other forms of property development.

In attendance were primary stakeholders including, Architects, Engineers, Draft men, surveyors and Town Planners etc.

For enquiries, visit town planning offices across 33 LGA’s, call 0700 696 52637 or email lands@oyostate.gov.ng, or visit www.lands.oyostate.gov.ng.

Start your application by visiting: https://applicant.lands.oyostate.gov.ng/login.

E-signed:

*Prince Dotun Oyelade,*

Hon. Commissioner for Information and Orientation,

Oyo State.

August 26, 2024.

Just In: Hoodlums Attack Oyo Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mogbanjubola Olawale Jagaban(PHOTOS)

Just In: Hoodlums Attack Oyo Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mogbanjubola Olawale Jagaban(PHOTOS)

In a shocking incident, the Oyo State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mogbanjubola Olawale Jagaban, was attacked by hoodlums while carrying out a clearing operation at Mobil, Ring Road in the early hours of today.

According to eyewitnesses, the commissioner was leading a team of officials from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources to clear the area of encroachers and debris when they were ambushed by a group of hoodlums.

“The commissioner and his team were doing their job, trying to clear up the area, when suddenly, a group of hoodlums appeared and started attacking them,” said a witness who preferred to remain anonymous. “They used sticks,and other objects to pelt the team.”

The attack left the vehicles and several members of his team injured, with some of them requiring hospital treatment.

“This is an unfortunate incident that highlights the challenges we face in trying to maintain order and cleanliness in our environment,” said a spokesperson for the Oyo State Government. “We will not be deterred by this attack and will continue to work towards creating a better environment for all citizens.”

The police have been called in to investigate the incident and arrest those responsible.

This incident is not an isolated one, as there have been reports of similar attacks on government officials and personnel engaged in environmental cleanup operations in the state.

The Oyo State Government has condemned the attack and assured citizens that it will continue to work towards creating a safe and clean environment for all.

20 RESCUED MEDICAL STUDENTS MOVED TO ABUJA

20 RESCUED MEDICAL STUDENTS MOVED TO ABUJA

Twenty rescued medical students adducted last week have been moved  to Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory for examination.

It was gathered that one kidnapper was shot and killed while two were captured.

Benue Police Command confirmed the rescue of the 20 medical students on Friday night . 

The medical students were rescued at Ajide  forest in Ukwonyo council ward, in  Ado Local Government Area of  Benue State. 

Ajide forest is sandwiched between Ado and  Okpokwu Local Government Areas in Benue South senatorial district.

The source said: “The security team and surveillance helicopters  were  stationed in  Utonkon, Ado Local Government Area before security personnel  stormed  the kidnappers den.

Gov Makinde's Economic Blueprint: Mr. William's Role in Attracting Investors to Oyo State

Gov Makinde's Economic Blueprint: Mr. William's Role in Attracting Investors to Oyo State

Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams has emerged as a key player in driving investment opportunities in the state. As the Honorable Commissioner for Lands, Housing, Survey, and Urban Development, Mr. Williams has initiated a series of innovative programs aimed at showcasing Oyo State as a fertile ground for investors.

With the full backing and approval of Governor Makinde, Mr. Williams has been instrumental in creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. His initiatives have successfully attracted both local and international investors, cementing Oyo State's position as a prime destination for investment in Nigeria.

His efforts are deeply rooted in the vision and support of His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, FNSE. Under the Governor's leadership, there is a strong push towards economic development, making Oyo State a favorable environment for investment.

Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams has been instrumental in creating a welcoming atmosphere for investors by showcasing the state's rich agricultural potential, strategic location, and government policies with incentives. His initiatives focus on building partnerships, facilitating business-friendly policies, and ensuring that investors are well-supported in their ventures in the state.

Mr. Williams' leadership role in this endeavor cannot be overstated. His tireless efforts in promoting Oyo State's vast resources and potential have yielded remarkable results. His ability to facilitate seamless interactions between investors and the state government has been a game-changer, ensuring that investment opportunities are seamlessly executed.

The impact of Mr. Williams' initiatives is evident in the numerous success stories of businesses that have benefited from his leadership. However, Governor Makinde's commitment to excellence and dedication to the development of Oyo State has earned him recognition as a champion of investment attraction in Nigeria.

As Oyo State continues to flourish under the distinguished leadership of Governor Makinde and the stewardship of Mr. Akin-Funmilayo Williams, the state is poised to become a hub for investment, development, and economic growth in Nigeria."

Credit: 'Ijoba Authority MOE'

OYO INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT RECEIVES BOOST

OYO INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT RECEIVES BOOST 

Power supply to lbadan Metropolis will soon receive boost as the hybrid power project project being executed by the Oyo State government will soon be completed.

 

The chairman of the Oyo state project Performance Monitoring Agency Engineer Muftau Open Salawu paid an inspection visit to the project site at the government secretariat, Agodi Ibadan.

The chairman of the project Performance Monitoring Agency, Engineer Open Salawu said the project which was awarded to Electron Energy is 80% completed as he added that the project is part of the effort of the state government to meet the energy needs of the people. 

The Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Seun Ashamu whose office directly supervises the project, disclosed that Governor Seyi Makinde is doing everything possible to attract investors to the state. 

Engineer Open Salawu also inspected the lighting work at the road construction section being handled by Craneburg Construction Company at the Lagos Ibadan interchange, linking up and exiting at Ibadan.

CHINESE FIRM SEIZES ANOTHER NIGERIA JET IN CANADA

CHINESE FIRM SEIZES ANOTHER NIGERIA JET IN CANADA

A Chinese company, Zhongshang Fucheng Industrial Investment Ltd. has finalised the repossession of a luxury jet owned by Nigeria in Canada.

According to reports, Zhongshang recently received a change of custodian paperwork for the Bombardier 6000 type BD-700-1A10 aircraft from Canadian authorities in Montreal after a Canadian court issued a judgement that empowered the firm to seize the aircraft from Nigeria.

According to the reports, Judge David Collier of the Superior Court of Quebec quashed Nigeria’s arguments to keep ownership of the aircraft on March 21, 2024.

Records showed the aircraft was purchased for $57 million by fugitive Dan Etete as part of his spending binge shortly after netting over $350 million windfall from the lucrative but corrupt sale of the OPL 245 oil field in 2010.

The report said Nigeria first seized the aircraft from Etete in 2016 and trapped it in Dubai, disclosing that flight tracking websites showed it was then flown suddenly to Canada on May 29, 2020, where Nigeria quickly obtained a court order for seizure and held it at the main airport in Montreal.

However, a Canadian firm, Tibit, had sought to claim ownership, but Canadian courts allowed Nigeria to remain in charge of the aircraft.

Explaining further, the report said Zhongshang moved in 2023 to seize the jet while pursuing enforcement of its arbitration awards of over $70 million against Nigeria.

Judge Collier said Nigeria failed to enter into a dispute against the aircraft’s seizure by Zhongshang, declaring the country’s argument that it could not respond to the lawsuit for nine months over the February-March 2023 general elections was frivolous and unacceptable.

The judge also rejected Nigeria’s sovereign immunity claim along the lines already itemised by the arbitration panel and courts in the United Kingdom.