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Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has promised that his administration will address the issue of acute shortage of classroom teachers in public primary and secondary schools, as part of reforms in the education sector in the State.  The Governor made the commitment while addressing a delegation from the National Union of Teachers (NUT), Ondo State chapter, during a courtesy visit at the Governor’s office in Akure on Wednesday. The delegation was led by the Chairman of the NUT in Ondo State, who doubles as the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC in the State, Comrade Victor Oladele Amoko. "I am committed to ensuring that the educational aspirations of our teachers and students are realized," Governor Aiyedatiwa said, assuring the union of his administration's dedication to addressing the identified challenges in the education sector. "We will take decisive steps to address the acute shortage of teachers in our primary schools, ensuring the ...

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his commitment towards providing full assistance to all the government-owned tertiary institutions across the State. The Governor gave the assurance during a meeting with members of the Governing Councils of the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo (UNIMED), Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa (OAUSTECH), and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko (AAUA), held in his office on Tuesday. Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the invaluable contributions of these institutions to society, particularly in terms of human capital development. The Governor promised to look into the various challenges facing the institutions with a view to addressing them as soon as possible.  He also called for the continued support and collaboration of the institutions with his administration to promote excellence in education in the State.  Earlier, Prof. Ayodele Arowojolu, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of t...

The Ondo state Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended the Muslim community for embracing religious harmony that promotes peace in the State.  The Governor gave the commendation while receiving Muslim leaders, led by His Eminence, Sheik Ahmad Aladesawe, the Chairman of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ondo State at the Governor’s Office Office in Akure. The Governor reiterated his administration's commitment to inclusive governance and collaborative efforts with all religious communities for the continued progress and prosperity of Ondo State. In response to the concerns raised by the Muslim community leaders during the visit, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that his recent appointments were made based on political considerations rather than religious affiliations, stressing the unity of the people regardless of faith.  The Governor, however, assured that future appointments would take into account the diverse interests of the state's population. On education and re...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The Provost, Oyo State College of Health Science and Technology, Ibadan, Mrs Oluyemisi Oyewo, has urged the newly-admitted students of the college to maintain balance between their studies and social life to achieve their academic goals. Oyewo stated this during the matriculation of the students admitted for the 2023/2024 academic session on Tuesday in Ibadan. She also enjoined the students to maintain diligent planning, effective time management, note taking and self-development, adding that they should also ensure critical reasoning in evaluating and analysing issues. The provost advised them not to read only, but to also acquire knowledge and service-rendering skills that would help them in future. “Remember that you were admitted to the college as an individual and you will graduate as an individual. “So, don’t join the multitude to do evil, as you will be held solely responsible for all your actions. “Take time to read the handbook of code of...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The representatives of the bishops of Africa, Symposium Of Episcopal Conference Of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) and Europe, Council of European Bishops' Conferences (CCEE) have urged all faithful, especially those in Africa and Europe to remain unshaken in their faith in Christ despite all odds, violences and challenges in the world today. The bishops made the remark in a statement and message they issued after their meeting in Nairobi, Kenya from Jan. 23 to 25. The statement was signed by the SECAM President, H.EM. Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo and the CCEE President, H.E. Msgr. Gintaras Grusas. The bishops remarks that Christ is the one  who brings us peace and hope, providing a beacon of light and certainty amidst the turmoil and  uncertainty that characterize our times. They acknowledged the profound significance of the transformation of the Roman Curia and the entire Church as outlined in the Apostolic Constitution “Praedicate Evangeli...

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday promised that his administration will re-engineer road infrastructure in the State, starting from Akure, the State capital.  The Governor stated this while inspecting two of the ongoing road projects in Akure: Oda road dualisation and the flyover at Onyearugbulem/Irese road. He was accompanied by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mr. Segun Omojuwa and the Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele and officials of the Ministry of Infrastructure, led by the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Allen Idowu.  The Governor had a few weeks ago ordered contractors handling road projects across the State to immediately return to sites and ensure the timely completion of the projects.  Speaking during the inspection at the site of the Oda road dualization, Governor Aiyedatiwa underscored his commitment towards fulfilling the late former Gove...

In what they described as a celebration of "eight years of unprecedented strides", indigenes and residents of Okene in Kogi State, on Sunday, trooped out in their thousands to welcome the immediate past Governor of the state, Yahaya Bello, back home after two impactful tenures.  They treated the White Lion, as he is fondly called, to a heroic homecoming ceremony at the ancient town, Okene, where Bello hails from. With loud cheers, pomp and pageantry, the jubilant residents heaped praises on the immediate past governor over his sterling performance in office, with different clans performing with their masquerades amid the thick crowd that thronged the streets. Before former Governor Bello arrived Okene, a crowd of residents of Lokoja, the state capital, had assembled on the highway linking the former governor's country home to bid him farewell after successfully handing over to his successor, Governor Usman Ododo. They lined up at the roadside and expressed gratitude to Be...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  An Iyaganku Magistrates' Court, Ibadan, on Monday sentenced one Muideen Yinusa, 43, to two months imprisonment, at Agodi Correctional facility, Ibadan, for stealing company's flex banner. Yinusa whose address was not provided was charged with theft. The Magistrate, Mrs G. T. Oladele sentenced Yinusa to two months imprisonment or an option of four months community service, (two hours per day) with guarantors standing in for him. Yinusa who pleaded guilty to the charge went with the option of two months imprisonment because he did not have any surety. Earlier, the Prosecutor, Insp. Femi Omilana told the court that Yinusa committed the offence on Jan. 26, at about 7. 50 a.m, at Yemetu area, Ibadan. Omilana said the convict stole a flex banner worth N48, 000, which belonged to one Dewad Communication Company. He said the offence contravened Section 390(9) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo State, 2000. (NAN)

Dissatisfied with the current performance of Sunshine Stars Football Club of Akure, aggrieved fans of the club, on  Monday, besieged Office of the Ondo State Governor to demand for the sack of the Team's General Manager, Prince Tunde Ogunja.  The protesters were seen displaying placards with various inscriptions, "Ogunja must go SOS", "Ogunja is a pest to football development in Ondo State, "Ogunja is a drunkard," Ogunja pays premium on money more than the work he is assigned to do, he get paid but not care about his job". The leader of the  protesters, Lucky Beniah  disclosed that Sunshine Stars FC  are currently 13th on the 2023/24 NPFL table due to the negligence of the General Manager. He alleged that the General Manager is not traveling with the team for away matches, after collecting full travelling allowances, even during home matches, he seldomly appear.  The allegations against him include; "imposition of players on coaching crew and his ...

  Barr. Aderemi Adetula, the Bamofin of Upenmen Kingdom in Ọwọ Local Government has joined millions of well-wishers to congratulate the Deputy Governor designate,Dr Olayide Adelami, on his appointment by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. It would be recalled that Governor Aiyedatiwa had announced the appointment of Adelami on Wednesday and followed with confirmation by the State Assembly on Thursday. Adetula said he is confident of the quality Adelami has to help the governor achieve greatness and move the state forward. "The quality and wealth of experience the new deputy governor designate will bring into the government of Governor Aiyedatiwa is unquantifiable,having reached the pinnacle of his career as a former deputy chief clerk of the National Assembly," he said. He used the opportunity to pray for the success of the new administration and urged all and sundry to support the current government to bring about dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

The leading political mobilization entity, Ibi Giga Ambassadors, which played a pivotal role in the victories of the All Progressive Party (APC) in the Ondo State Gubernatorial Election of 2020 and the Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Election in 2023, has unveiled its schedule to convene with its grassroots supporters at the Local Government, Ward, and Polling Unit levels in preparation for the APC Gubernatorial Primaries in Ondo State. The Ibi Giga Ambassadors, known for its numerous commendable achievements, including the donation of 41 branded vehicles to bolster the Ondo State APC gubernatorial campaign in 2020, enjoys unparalleled grassroots popularity and backing throughout Ondo State.  The convener of the group, Chief (Dr) Alex Ajipe, the Director General, Prof. Lanre Olu-Adeyemi, and members of the Directorate, have indicated that the organization is poised to commence a statewide tour aimed at engaging with its members and supporters.  This initiative aligns with their m...

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that the overwhelming reactions that greeted the nomination and appointment of Dr. Olayide Adelami and Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi as Deputy Governor and Secretary to the State Government respectively showed that he made the right choices for both positions .  The Governor, who said this on Friday at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House in Akure while meeting both Adelami and Oluwatuyi for the first time since their appointment, added that he considered them highly qualified and well equipped to carry out the responsibilities entrusted to them. Governor Aiyedatiwa, wh o congratulated Adelami and Oluwatuyi, disclosed that he received calls and messages from notable personalities, including traditional rulers and religious leaders, commending both appointments. He said: "The time for a deputy governor has come, because the responsibilities have been immense, and I am grateful for the capable hands of Dr. Adelami and the...

The Ondo Action Alliance (OAA) has lamented the alleged invasion of the state afforestation fied by some individuals described as Impostors . The group expressed its displeasure on Friday in an open letter addressed to the state Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.  The letter reads, “Ondo State afforestation field, a veritable source of revenue for the state, has been much abused in recent times with the rate of fraud that has been visited on this sector by lawless citizens and certain fraudulent agents of government, both genuine and hoax. “One would have thought that the new government, under Honourable Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, whose body language strongly suggests loathing manipulations and usurpation of government powers, would deter these fraudulent characters who have since been invading our forest to defraud the state, but the practice, instead, took a new dimension, to our utter dismay. “For the avoidance of doubts, we have on good authority that two individuals, namely: Mr ...

I want to use this opportunity to offer my warm congratulations to Prince Adeola Ikuesan on your emergence as the National Publicity Secretary for Niger Delta Youth Movement  You have earned the confidence and trust of the Member States of the region. This is a great privilege, and a very great responsibility. Prince, you have not applied for an easy job, you have applied for one of the most important, and one of the most demanding role, where you’re saddled with the responsibility of building the integrity and face of NDYM, This role will demand every bit of the technical, managerial and diplomatic skill you have, and more but you are not alone. You have the highest assurance of our support from Ondo Chapter  The emergence of this Exco come at a critical time, as we seek to jump-start progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals of the agenda of the present day government for the youth, we want to key in to the agenda of His Excellency the President of Nigeria, Presiden...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Online Health Company Ltd. (O Health), Ibadan, on Thursday launched an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) software to improve healthcare delivery . The  Chief Medical Director (CMD) of University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, said at the event that the EMR would improve comprehensive patient care. Otegbayo was represented by the UCH Deputy Chairman of Medical Advisory Council, Dr Olusola Olawoye. He said that EMR  improved operational efficiency, reduced administrative cost/burdens and allowed more time for direct patient care. According to Otegbayo, EMR enhances data-driven healthcare, interoperability, coordination and patient engagement. He added that it prevented duplication of tests and procedures. “With EMR system, patients’ waiting time can be reduced, as it provides doctors with detailed information about the patient. “It is a system that can pave way for the future where the healthcare will be advanced in ou...

The converner of IBI GIGA AMBASSADORS, Chief Dr Alex AJIPE has call to congratulates the new deputy governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami urging him to bring his wealth of experience of over two decades to bear in governance.   Ajipe also In his congratulatory message expressed optimism in the capacity of Dr Adelami to take Governor Ayeidatiwa government to another higher level. He described the new number two citizen as a man of many parts, adding that Ayedatiwa’s choice of Adelami was simply putting a round peg in a round hole. “Your emergence is a major pointer that politics today is tilting towards meritocracy and not god-fatherism. Your nomination by the  Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Lucky Ayeidatiwa is a victory for all Ondo indigenes irrespective of political affiliation as it shows that the hand of the Almighty God is truly on our dear state. “I urge you to dare to be different. Emulates our beloved leader and mentor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Aker...

A former Commissioner for Special Duties, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Femi Adekanmbi, has expressed delight over the appointment of Chief Olayide Owolabi Adelami as the Deputy Governor of Ondo State.  In a statement by the former Commissioner on Wednesday, he eulogised the governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa for giving the Owo born bureaucrat, the opportunity to serve the state. He said "Adelami would use his wealth of experience to achieve “monumental development for the state in line with the redeemed agenda of the state government and the renewed hope agenda of President Tinubu's administration. "Adelami is seasoned technocrat and a reputable public administrator. I have no doubt that he will do well in the area of improving the fortunes of the state and ensuring a better and quality life for the citizenry" "I trust the new deputy governor to exhibit absolute loyalty. He must execute task assigned to him in a very diligent manner. A Deputy Governor must be 100% loy...

In a continuous efforts to maintain a robust relationship with all concerned stakeholders, the State Coordinator,NYSC Oyo State, Comrade Odoba Abel Oche has paid a courtesy visit to the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian army, Major General Bamidele Alabi in his office at Odogbo, Ibadan where he acknowledged the unquantifiable impact of the military on National Youth Service Corps.  While addressing the GOC and other senior officers of the Division, Odoba described NYSC as a brain child of the military, birthed during General Yakubu Gowon's military administration to rehabilitate, reconstruct and reconcile the nation after the civil war that ravaged the country for 36 months with a clear mission to promote national unity and integration. Comrade Odoba commended the GOC for taking NYSC as a family and sending good officers to maintain discipline during orientation exercises. He said the officers and men were professional in handling corps members and providing adequate...

DISSOLUTION OF THE ONDO STATE EXECUTIVE COUNCIL The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has dissolved the State Executive Council, with immediate effect.   All members of the Cabinet (who were appointed by late Governor Akeredolu) are to immediately hand over to the Permanent Secretaries or the most senior administrative officers in their respective offices. Also, all Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs) are relieved of their duties, with immediate effect. All the affected officials are directed to hand over all government properties in their possession. The Governor thanks the affected officials for their services and contributions to the development of the State. Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State. January 24, 2024.

Leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ondo State chapter, on Tuesday offered special prayers for the success of the administration of the State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.  Reverend Anselm Olorunfemi Ologunwa, the Chairman of CAN, led the delegation of the Christian leaders in expressing their appreciation for the governor's prompt attention to critical issues affecting the State. They commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for his swift actions since assuming office, acknowledging improvements ranging from infrastructure, sanitation to addressing salary arrears of civil servants. They extended heartfelt condolences on the passing of former Governor, late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, recognizing his contributions to the state's development.  The Christian leaders congratulated the Governor on his inauguration, expressing optimism that his leadership would bring positive changes to the State.  The Christian association pledged spiritual and moral support f...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   Oyo State Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima, on Tuesday, urged Presidents of Grade A Customary Courts in the state to always strive for excellence in their pursuit of justice. Yerima stated this during the swearing-in of the eight newly-appointed presidents of Grade A customary courts in Ibadan. She enjoined them to always be abreast of legal developments, attend continuing legal education and engage in other meaningful professional development. “As presidents of Grade A customary courts, you serve as the first legal filter to cases coming from the customary courts, given the fact that you are legal practitioners who have firm grasp of the law. “You must, therefore, exercise your authority with fairness, impartiality, honour and utmost integrity. “Remember that the scales of justice are balanced and it is your duty to ensure that they remain so by treating each case with utmost consideration, regardless of its magnitude. “Each decision you make h...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   Oyo State Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima, on Tuesday, urged Presidents of Grade A Customary Courts in the state to always strive for excellence in their pursuit of justice. Yerima stated this during the swearing-in of the eight newly-appointed presidents of Grade A customary courts in Ibadan. She enjoined them to always be abreast of legal developments, attend continuing legal education and engage in other meaningful professional development. “As presidents of Grade A customary courts, you serve as the first legal filter to cases coming from the customary courts, given the fact that you are legal practitioners who have firm grasp of the law. “You must, therefore, exercise your authority with fairness, impartiality, honour and utmost integrity. “Remember that the scales of justice are balanced and it is your duty to ensure that they remain so by treating each case with utmost consideration, regardless of its magnitude. “Each decision you make h...

The administration of Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday received an overwhelming support from the chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ondo West local government area of the State.  The party leaders, led by a member of the House of Representatives (Ondo West/Ondo East Federal Constituency), Hon. Biola Makinde, were hosted by the Governor at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House in Akure.  Numbering about 30, the party leaders included Rtd Gen. Funso Oyeneyin, Hon. Bola Ilori, Hon. Ade Adeniyi, Engr Dele Olanubi, Hon Ebenezer Akinsulire, Chief Mrs Cecilia Ifayase, Hon. Tayo Awosika, Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye, Chief Mrs Adenike Olawoye, Chief Patrick Ogundolie, Hon. Wale Gbakinro, Dr. Wale Fasakin and Hon. Moyinolorun Ogunwumiju. Speaking on behalf of the party leaders, Hon. Makinde said the visit was to show support of the party leaders for the new administration in the State and to intimate the Governor with the needs of Ondo Kingdom....

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed the determination of his administration to continue to prioritise the welfare of civil servants in the State.  The Governor made the commitment on Monday during an interactive session with the top echelon of the state civil service at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor's Office in Akure.  He said: “Let me place on record my sincere appreciation to the Head of Service, Permanent Secretaries and all the Accounting Officers here present for your unflinching support to this administration and government formerly led by my dear late Principal, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, CON with my humble self, assuming the position of Governor after his demise. It is my hope that the support and cooperation we have been enjoying from you since inception would continue unabated.  “As the Accounting Officers in your respective MDAs, you have great responsibilities on your shoulders.  You are duty bound to account fo...

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Monday held an interactive session with stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from across the 18 local government areas of the State, urging them to embrace peace and unity ahead of the coming governorship election in the State. It was the first of such meeting since the Governor was inaugurated and he used the opportunity to thank the party leaders for their support, stressing the need for all contending forces within the party to come together to move the party and the State forward. The Governor said: “It is important for me to tell you that as leaders of our party, we must put behind us the events of the last few months and come together as one big family for the progress of the APC and the development of our dear State.  “To me, what happened in the past was just politics. It was not a fight; it was not a battle; it was mere politics and I can say that I did not take any offence from that. The most important thing fo...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) has recorded tremendous success since the assumption of office of the Director-General, Prof. Abba Tijani in 2020. The NCMM DG, Tijani made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Ibadan. NAN reports that Tijani spearheaded the drive for the Repatriation of many Benin Bronzes that were  looted in 1897 to Nigeria after many failed attempts since the independence.  Tijani remarked that the Repatriation agreements with countries in the West also attracted some beneficial collaboration in digitisation of museum collections and upgrade of the galleries.   "We have been able to sign repatriation agreements and  returned  Benin  artefacts  from  the  University  of Aberdeen, Jesus College  Cambridge,  The  Metropolitan  Museum,  New  York,  The  National  Gallery...

The National Youth Service Corps Coordinator in Ondo State, Mrs. Victoria Nnenna Ani has described the immediate past Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, CON, SAN as a fearless patriot who defended the rights and privileges of the downtrodden and less privileged in the society throughout his lifetime . The State Coordinator made the statement at Jericho avenue, the Ibadan home of the late Governor, where she led the NYSC management team to condole with the wife of the legal icon, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and the family. Mrs. Ani who declared that the demise of the late Governor was too much a burden on the lives the departed legal luminary impacted while alive said that Nigerians will never forget in a hurry the imprints he made in the political sphere. "His Excellency, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu was a central figure to good governance, justice, rule of law and democratic ideals which made him one of the few ones who laboured to e...