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The NYSC Ondo State Coordinator, Mr. Sam Amaramiro Pepple has told the Airtel team that visited him that the Scheme will continue to partner with organisations that have youths as their focal point. The State Coordinator made the statement when he received in audience the team of Airtel mobile service providers in his office located within the Federal Secretariat Complex, Igbatoro road, Akure. Pepple, who disclosed that he has an existing relationship with Airtel for close to two decades said that the giant telecommunications outfit must come with services that will benefit the teeming corps members across the state. He said that NYSC has designed and integrated sponsorship deals into orientation course activities so that reputable establishments can showcase what they have to the vibrant set of youths at the camp during social programmes. The Coordinator said that the return of the Airtel to be part of social activities at the camp will engender enduring relationships, while also remi...

Various Youths and Women Groups on Wednesday gathered in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to call for restraints over the proposed nationwide protests, declaring their intention to boycott such protests in the State.  The groups, in their separate meetings, also declared their support for the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, promising to mobilise for him ahead of the coming governorship election in the State.  The first gathering was that of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) which held a public engagement session at the International Culture and Events Centre, in Akure, while the representatives of various women groups held their meeting at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office.  Addressing the groups, Governor Aiyedatiwa again appealed for peaceful dialogue between the government and other stakeholders to prevent anarchy and the planned nationwide protests.   The Governor highlighted the critical role of youth and wome...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  Some Medical Practioners on Wednesday stressed that vaccines were safe and healthy, urging Nigerians to embrace them. They made the remarks at the 2024 Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Oyo Scientific Conference in Ibadan. The conference had the theme “Vaccines: the facts and the myths” and sub-theme as “Combating vaccine hesitancy in clinical and public health settings”. Dr Adeola Fowotade, a Clinical Virologist at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, said most diseases in Nigeria could be preventable with vaccination. Fowotade added that the vaccines available were not meant for children alone but also for adults. She said that people were showing apathy toward  the vaccines as a result of some myths associated with them. “Some say vaccines cause autism; that HPV vaccine causes infertility, makes girls promiscuous and contains harmful substances, among other myths. “But large scale studies done by Centre for Disease Control and World...

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commiserated with the people of Idanre over the passing of their monarch, Oba (Dr) Frederick Adegunle Aroloye, Arubiefin IV, the Owa and Paramount Ruler Ruler of Idanre Kingdom. Oba Aroloye, who ascended the throne of Owa in 1976 and was the oldest first class Oba in Ondo State, joined his ancestors on Wednesday at the age of 102. The Governor said the passing of the revered monarch after 48 years on the throne is a monumental loss to Idanre community, Ondo State and Yorubaland.  Governor Aiyedatiwa described the late Oba Aroloye as one of the most respected monarchs in Nigeria during his reign, adding that he was a lover of peace. Within the almost 50 years of his reign, he added, Oba Aroloye promoted communal peace and stability while deploying his rich experience in the traditional leadership of Idanreland. In a condolence message,  the Governor said: "Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the passing of our beloved...

The former two term Member House of Representatives (MHR) to Ondo East and West Federal Constituency Hon Joseph Iranola Akinlaja has appealed to the youths for a modest and acceptable protest.  Protest is a generally acceptable world practice to express dissatisfaction to any unfriendly policies introduced by the government or any organisations, it could also be described as a statement or action expressing disapproval of, or objection to something. Therefore Nigeria should not be an exemption, however, past experiences and recent happenings in Kenya has made government to discourage such act that may cause chaos in order  for innocent citizens not to be victims of vandalisation, or untimely death. In his remarks while appearing on a live advocacy video for peaceful protest that are in circulation on many online platforms and made available to the newsmen on 30th July 2024.  Hon Akinlaja recalled the experience of End SARS saga, how it started peacefully and later was hij...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The police on Wednesday arraigned two suspects: Nura Ibrahim, 29 and Abubakar Garuba, 33, before a Grade 'A' Customary Court, Ibadan, over an alleged N59 million detergent theft. The duo whose addresses were not provided were charged with conspiracy, obtaining goods under false pretences, conduct likely to cause breach of peace and stealing. They however pleaded not guilty to the charges. The prosecutor, Mr Philip Amusan told the court that the defendants committed the offences on April 5 and 6, at Oluyole area, Ibadan. Amusan said the defendants and others at large conspired to obtain viva detergents worth N59 million, belonging to MB Parfumarie Nigeria, Ltd. He said the defendants fraudulently obtained the goods from the company with the pretext to supply them, but failed to do so. He said the defendants rather converted the money to their personal use and conducted themselves in a manner likely to cause breach of peace in that manner. Accor...

  At a significant event marking the endorsement of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Olutayo Yòmí Victor, a prominent figure from Akoko South West Local Government and the CEO of Billion Autos Limited, showcased his steadfast support. During the ceremony, Victor took Governor Aiyedatiwa on an exclusive inspection of branded exotic vehicles, which he had specially prepared to promote the Governor's 2024 gubernatorial bid.  This gesture highlighted his commitment to the Governor’s re-election campaign. Expressing his dedication, Victor stated that he is determined to mobilize his extensive network of followers to canvass for Governor Aiyedatiwa, reinforcing the Governor’s campaign with both logistical support and voter engagement efforts. This endorsement and active participation by influential community members like Victor are seen as crucial in bolstering the Governor's chances in the upcoming election. ÓDÀTIWA Narratives

The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday approved the payment of bursaries and scholarships to the students of the state origin in tertiary institutions and the Nigerian Law Schools. The Governor made the disclosure while addressing a students stakeholders meeting held at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Akure, the state capital.  The student leaders included officers of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS), National Female Students Association and indigenous student associations in the State.  While responding to some of the requests of the student leaders, Governor Aiyedatiwa said the process for the payment of the bursaries and scholarships had begun and would be completed in a few weeks to begin disbursement.  Other issues addressed by the Governor included provision of buses for student bodies, enha...

It was a glorious moment of  double celebrations on Tuesday as Noble Hills High School was officially opened while the School director, Mrs Asaolu Titilayo  Smart celebrates her 40th birthday today at the tastefully decorated event space within the school serene compound The school director was ushered into the colourful birthday ceremony with danceable melodious music  as they were  dancing and accompanied by her, children, friends, staff and well wishers.  The celebrant who was full of praises to the Almighty God for the journey so far in four decades of mixed experiences as humans but above all,that this her God stood by her as the sole sustenance that she could look back today with a grateful heart to say thank you baba God. She pointed out the importance of having Elder Smart Ayodele as her father,a rare one who is always ready to encourage and support her dreams. Ms Titilayo equally express her profound gratitude to her family, friends, clubs, ANCOPS and a...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, has advised Africans never to disrespect people’s religious symbols and sentiments regardless of what they go through. Badejo said this in a statement on Tuesday in Ibadan. Badejo said Africans should always respect people’s religious sentiments which he said could touch them at the deepest levels of their being. According to the Catholic bishop, to disrespect religious symbols or sentiments is to throw humanising and spiritual values and ideals to the dogs. “The religious depictions of Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” painting with contemporary ideological figures at the  opening ceremony of the Olympics are clearly offensive to Christianity. "To say the least, it's shocking and disrespectful. “Sadly it is a perpetration of deliberate ongoing attempts in Europe and America to repurpose and cheapen Christian themes, without regard for peace loving Christians who practi...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan  The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, have urged organisers of the planned nationwide protest to exercise restraints and avoid any form of violence . The bishops made the call in a communique they issued after the meeting of the Ibadan ecclesiastical province, held from July 29 to 30. The Communique was signed by the Chairman, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin and the Secretary, Most Rev. John Oyejola. They urged the organisers and those intending to participate in the protest not to intimidate any Nigerian who chose not to participate. “Although it is the right of the citizenry to protest, the protesters should exercise restraint and not intimidate those who may choose not to take part. “Allow those who might not join in the protest to go about their lawful businesses unhindered. Promote peace, and be law abiding while making your voices to be heard,”they said. The bishops expressed concerns over the current harsh economic condition i...

  The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN) vehemently disassociates itself from the recent actions and statements made by the Ondo State Government, particularly Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and his appeal to shun protests. We find these actions to be insensitive and uncoordinated, failing to address the genuine concerns of the youth in our state. For almost a decade, OSYN has diligently protected and advocated for the interests of the youth in Ondo State. We consider ourselves critical stakeholders in matters as sensitive as this, and we are appalled by the disregard shown by the government towards our organization and the broader youth community. The recent statements by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, and the Senior Special Assistant on Community Engagement (Central), Mr. Femi Fadairo, highlight the administration's insensitivity. Their claims of prioritizing youth welfare are baseless and unsupported by their actions. The yo...

The leadership of Ondo South Advancement and Welfare Consultative Association (OSAWA) warmly congratulates our Director of Legal Services, Barrister Fade Ojamomi, on his appointment as Special Assistant on Inter-Party Affairs by the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa. We are thrilled to see one of our own excel and receive this well-deserved recognition. Barrister Ojamomi's expertise, professionalism, and dedication to our association have been invaluable, and we are confident that he will bring the same level of excellence to his new role. This appointment is a testament to the Governor's commitment to building a strong and collaborative political landscape in Ondo State and we are proud to have Barrister Ojamomi positioned in this capacity. We wish Barr. Ojamomi all the best in his new role and look forward to his continued contributions to our association and the state. Signed: Cornelius Omolere Owolewa  Director of New Media, OSAWA  July ...

In continuation of efforts to enhance governance and service delivery to the people of the State, the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the appointment of the following as Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs): Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) 1. Alonge Felix Kolawole, Social Investment 2. Hon Tomide Akinribido, ICT 3. Allen Sowore, Strategic Communication 4. Femi Lawson, Public Enlightenment 5. Oluseyi Aletile, Entertainment & Tourism 6. Rotimi Agbede, Citizen Orientation 7. Muyiwa Ogunleye, Community Integration 8. Rotimi Wemimo Akinsola, Agric & Agribusiness 9. Uzoma Egbulefu, Non-indigenes 10. Chief Olufunke Adu, Market Women Relations Special Assistants (SAs) 1. Mrs Eko Davies, Traders Affairs 2. Kike Isijola, Digital Media 3. Mrs Dupe Adetuwo, Arts & Culture 4. Oriade Adebanwo, Emergency Response 5. Fadesola Ojamomi, Inter-Party Affairs 6. Oladimeji Olawale, Intra-Party Affairs 7. Akinboni ...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   As the Catholic Church celebrates the gift of elders, the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, urges the elderly not to be weary as they are still needed in their families, churches and nation building. Badejo made the remark on Sunday in his message titled: “Special Message to the Elderly and Grandparents”. The catholic bishop urged elderly people and grandparents to continue to impact good morals to the youth. “As the universal Church through The Holy Father, Pope Francis has asked us to do, the Catholic Diocese of Oyo today celebrates the gift of all our elderly and grandparents. “I greet you all and pray for you. Joy, fulfillment, good health of mind and body shall be yours. We cherish your wisdom, experience and faith. “You are still useful and needed in the nation, the church, in the family and in the life of your children and grandchildren. “Please continue to impact and imbue us with your good counsel, experience, f...

In a bid to ensure a swift and seamless administration of justice, the Ondo State Judiciary has launched its Court Management Information System - CoMiS.  This follows the signing of a Service Level Agreement with a consultant firm, Cinfores Limited in June, this year. Chief Registrar, Ondo State Judiciary, Mrs. Yetunde Ajanaku-Makun, made it known that the CoMIS would automate  Court processes like eFiling, eAffidavit, and eProbate system in the High and Magistrate Court which included small claims court and the Family Court under the Magistrate Court. In regard to this, Ajanaku-Makun said the collection of profiles, process standardisation and customisation as well capacity  development for the judiciary ICT team, Registry staff and  the engagement of the Bar have been accomplished. She said the system would remove the red tapes clogging the wheel of justice administration in the state.

  A Professor of African Political and Diplomatic History at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Simon Odion Ehiabhi, will deliver the 26th Inaugural Lecture of the Institution on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.   The lecture, titled “Historical Consciousness, Shared Identity and the Quest for a Restructured Nigeria,” promises to provide deep insights into the nation's quest for restructuring.   According to a statement by the Chairman of the University Ceremonies Committee and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Admin.), Prof. Adebisi Daramola, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, will chair the event. The lecture will take place in the University Multipurpose Hall, commencing at 2:00 PM, with guests urged to be seated by 1:30 PM.   Prof. Ehiabhi's remarkable academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History in 1995, followed by a Master’s degree in International History & Diplomacy in 1999, another Master’s degree in History in 2003, and culm...

FIFA licensed Agent, Shalom Olaseni has congratulated Hon. Bamidele Ologunloluwa over his appointment as Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA).  Olaseni while congratulating other members of the Board, charged them to work with unity of purpose for the overall development of football in the state.  The Chairman of United Global Resolve For Peace (UGRFP) and Ondo State Conscience Movement(OCM) described individuals on ODSFA board as men of impeccable character and well rooted in grassroots football development.  He admonished the board to look beyond established teams like Sunshine Stars FC and Sunshine Queens FC , saying they should make under - age football development their focal point. He added that it's a great opportunity for the board to change the narrative of the Agency by embarking on aggressive grassroots football development across the 18 local government areas of the state. He said: "This is an opportunity for us to catch the young talen...

Otunba Sam Kokor Obazuaye, a billionaire entrepreneur in the oil and gas industry and group managing director of Sambaz Oil Nigeria Ltd, Dy Executive’hotel , Dy event place and  a grassroots mobilizer, has unveiled an ambitious plan to canvass and mobilize support for Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s election bid.  As a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Chairman of the Ilaje Oil & Gas Producing Communities, Obazuaye is spearheading a comprehensive campaign effort to secure a decisive victory in the 2024 gubernatorial elections. Obazuaye has committed to mobilizing across all 18 local governments in Ondo State, leveraging his extensive resources and influence to ensure robust support for Governor Aiyedatiwa. His strategy includes a wide-reaching canvassing initiative designed to engage voters and strengthen APC’s presence throughout the state. In his statement, Obazuaye expressed his dedication to the campaign and his belief in Aiyedatiwa’...

The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency, (ODSFA), Hon. Bamidele Ologunloluwa has approved the reinstatement of former Sunshine Stars team Manager, Seun Betiku. The board also approved the reinstatement of Sunshine Queens FC Team Manager, and former Sunshine Stars Welfare Officer  , Kehinde Odogun and AbdulRahman Abdulsalam to their former positions. Sunshine Queens Media Officer, Femi Atolagbe also promoted to the Sunshine Stars FC, as the the team's Media Officer. According to the board, "you will still be in charge of Sunshine Queens FC  media." "The engagements take immediate effect," the appointment letters read. Recalled that the duo of Seun Betiku and Kehinde Odogun has earlier redeployed to the Sunshine Stars U-17 team, while Abdulsalam AbdulRahman  disengaged by the immidiate past management of the teams.  Sunshine Stars Media Officer  Femi Atolagbe

  Dear Students and Parents, In light of the recent security concerns in the Akungba Akoko community, the management of Adekunle Ajasin University wishes to assure our students and parents that the institution is fully committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all our students, both on campus and in the surrounding host communities. The management recognizes the seriousness of the prevailing security situation around Akungba community and the impact it has had on our students' sense of security.  The University has taken proactive steps to address these issues in collaboration with relevant security authorities. We have requested the immediate deployment of additional security personnel, to enhance the patrol of the campus and surrounding communities. This increased presence aims to deter criminal activities and apprehend suspected criminal elements. The University is also working closely with the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to develop a coordin...

Stakeholders have been called upon to brainstorm on new innovations and approaches towards the collection of taxes. Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, made the call at the Elizade University (EU) Tax Club Dinner tagged 'Evening Deduction 2024' held at the State Internal Revenue Learning Center, Akure, the state capital. Aiyedatiwa, represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Olusegun Omojuwa, commended the organizers of the Elizade University Tax Club Dinner, saying the event will educate Nigerians on the importance of paying taxes to the government. Aiyedatiwa said despite the current economic situation in the country, the government should still find ways to generate tax revenue for the development of the state and the country at large. While reiterating the need to find new approaches and innovations on how to collect taxes, he said it must be done according to the features of taxation, which must be convenient for taxpayers. According to him, "Tax is very critic...

By David Fidelis Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has sworn in Dr Seun Osamaye and two others as Special Advisers. Basically, Osamaye was sworn in as Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Mr. Adeyemi Olayemi (Environment), and Dr. Jibayo Adeyeye (Legislative Matters and Special Duties).     Recall that the Governor had announced the appointment of the three Special Advisers and seven other aides on June 19. Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa charged the SAs to bring their wealth of knowledge and experiences to their new role for the betterment of the coastal state. Responding, the newly sworn-in Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr Seun Osamaye, thanked the Governor for appointing her and promised to do her best towards transforming the Ministry. Her Words: "Today marked a historic moment in Ondo State. This appointment demonstrates the Governor's dedication to ensuring the advancement and welfare of women in our state. "Governor Aiyedatiwa's...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   The late Justice Adegboye Gbolagunte of the Oyo State Judiciary has been described as an excellent jurist of impeccable honesty. The state Chief Judge (CJ), Justice Iyabo Yerima, said this on Monday in a valedictory court session held in honour of the deceased at the State High Court, Ibadan. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Gbolagunte, a senior judge in the state judiciary, died after a protracted illness on June 24, at the age of 64. Yerima said the late justice was honest and impartial in discharging his duties. The CJ said Gbolagunte was the first high court judge produced by the Faculty of Law, University of Ibadan. According to her, the deceased was the third in his family on the roll of lawyers called to bar. She regretted that his demise would leave a great vacuum in the state judiciary. “Today, we mourn a great jurist, but we also delight in the cherished memories we have of His lordship, knowing that he will always be remem...

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Ondo State on student affairs Hon Kelvin Olaolu Solomon has said that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has performed creditably well in the short period in office to deserve a full term in office. Hon KSO while addressing press in his country home Ose Local Government said as a loyal party man, he stands firmly with the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the November governorship election in Ondo State. His achievements in the critical sectors of the state’s economy are endearing, and we are convinced that it needs to be sustained, Quite naturally, his performance has endeared him to major stakeholders in the state across the board, and of these, the endorsement by traditional rulers across the state, the custodians of tradition deserves special mention.  The Obas say he deserves another term because under him, the economic potential of the state has greatly improved.  Gov. Aiyedatiwa impact also cuts across ...

By Fidelis David  Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said  his administration is committed to improving the lives of people with disabilities (PWDs) in the state. Governor Aiyedatiwa who spoke at an interactive session and  distribution of food packages to female PWDs in the state held at the palace of the Osolo of Isolo, in Akure South Local Government Area of the state said his government is commitment to improving the welfare of the people of the coastal state, particularly the physically-challenged persons. Specifically, Aiyedatiwa, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye said the palliatives will ease the economic hardship being faced by the disability community in the state. She said: "Honestly, it is the passion of Mr governor for humanity and his love for all regardless of status, their disabilities or where they come from. "This initiative is aimed at reaching out to all women, developing ideas, innovations, strategies...

By Dayo Joseph Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of State for Youth Development, has left an indelible mark in the lives of young Nigerians. His dedication, vision, and leadership have transformed the youth development landscape, empowering countless young people across the country.  The Ministry of Youth has revolutionised the lives of Nigerian youths. Over seven million of our great youths, over the next two years will benefit through Nigerian Youth Academy (NiYA) initiative This dynamic platform is dedicated to empowering youths through education and skill-building, with the ambitious goal of positively impacting millions of lives across Nigeria. The comprehensive program includes job fairs, online and live classes, a vibrant digital community, start-up support, youth engagement in politics, and a lifetime resource hub. By providing access to these resources and opportunities, NiYA is set to unlock the potential of Nigerian youths and equip them for success. With a goal of generati...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko, Ibadan   A 43-year old man, Akindele Oladipupo, was on Thursday, docked at a Grade ‘A’ Customary Court, Ibadan, for allegedly stealing a cell phone worth N180,000 . Oladipupo, with no fixed address, is being charged with stealing, to which he pleaded not guilty. The Prosecutor, Mr Philip Amusan, told the court that the defendant committed the offence at about 7.00p.m on June 19, at Molete area of Ibadan. Amusan said that Oladipupo craftily took the cell phone from the complainant, Damilare Adepoju under the pretext of using it to make a call, but eventually disappeared with it. He said that Adepoju only realised after a long wait that the defendant had stolen his phone. He stated that the offence contravened Section 390(9) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo State, 2000. The Court President, Mrs Sukurat Yusuf, granted the defendant bail in the sum of N180,000 with two reliable sureties in like sum. She thereafter adjourned the case until Aug. 9, for hearing.(NAN)...

By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko The police on Thursday arraigned a suspected fraudster, Ezekiel Olukoyi, 39, before a Grade ‘A’ Customary Court, Ibadan, for allegedly stealing an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card. Olukoyi, without a disclosed address, faces a one-count theft charge, to which he pleaded not guilty. The prosecutor, Mr Philip Amusan, told the court that the defendant allegedly committed the offence on June 6 at about 2.00 p.m., at Access Bank, Agbeni branch, Ibadan. Amusan said the defendant stole the Access Bank ATM card of one Fatimo Ojo and withdrew the sum of N40,000 from her account. According to him, the offence contravens Section 390(9) of the Criminal Laws of Oyo State, 2000. However, the court president, Mrs Sukurat Yusuf, granted the defendant bail of N50,000 with two sureties in like sum. She, subsequently, adjourned the case until Aug. 21 for hearing. (NAN)