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DAPO ABIODUN IN 730 DAYS INTRODUCTION

Published

3 years ago

May 29, 2021

Sahara Weekly

Ogun Govt Pulls Down Distressed School Building

DAPO ABIODUN IN 730 DAYS INTRODUCTION

NEW YEAR BROADCAST BY THE GOVERNOR OF OGUN STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN MFR, ON FRIDAY, 1ST JANUARY, 2021 Fellow citizens of Ogun State, It is with a heart full of gratitude to the Almighty God and great hope that I address and felicitate with you all as we usher in a new year. 2021 is not just a new year. It is indeed a new dawn that we pray offers a fresh beginning for us as individuals, and as a State. 1. It is only God’s benevolence that saw us through the challenges of a most turbulent year, 2020; it was a year like no other one in recent history. The year started like any other, for most of us. And as an Administration, it was our first full year in office with our own first developed Budget that we christened the Budget to Rebuild Our Future Together. Thus, we were determined to enhance the momentum achieved in the first few months in office in the implementation of our Building Our Future Together Agenda. 2. With a solid foundation laid in 2019, our Administration at the beginning of year 2020 was positioned to commence the building of the future of our state and deliver on our promises to the people, having appointed the full cabinet and inaugurated the Transition Committees for our twenty Local Government Areas to further deepen development at the grassroots level. 3. However, in February 2020, the COVID-19 struck in the country with the index case in our State. This led to a chain of events that became a clear and unprecedented threat to public health and safety, and caused disruption to social and economic lives on a scale that have no match in the last century. 4. No individual or nation was insulated from the effect of the pandemic. We were all compelled to adapt to a ‘New Normal’. A ‘Normal’ that meant either life or death. Governments all over the world, Corporate Organisations and ordinary Citizens, for once, were pre-occupied with one and only one goal - survival. 5. Many otherwise strong Nations bowed to the lethal and pervasive impact of the global but invisible enemy. Regrettably, some of our compatriots fell casualties of the pandemic. At this juncture, I pray for the repose of the souls of the victims of COVID-19 and indeed all the departed souls. May God comfort the families they left behind. It is my strong hope and prayer that the new year 2021 will bring solace to us all, and replenish all that we may have lost or unable to achieve in year 2020 as a result of this pandemic. And, by the special grace of God, we will have many more years to celebrate with full realisation of our potentials. 6. As a Government, the pandemic and other challenges tested our capacity, resilience and readiness to provide leadership, during normal times and turbulent periods. In our usual approach and particularly through the turbulent periods, we remained focused; we were deliberate; methodical; inclusive; and, were structured in our responses. This approach helped us significantly to confront the pandemic and the #EndSARS protest, and still deliver on our commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of our people. I am therefore delighted that despite these tremendous challenges, we can look back and appreciate the divine grace to deliver on a number of promises made to our people and our dear State in the last year. Though, our agenda may not have progressed as rapidly as envisioned, we have been able to record some achievements through the glory of God, cooperation and support of you, the good people of Ogun State and all stakeholders. Once again, I thank you all. 7. Fellow Citizens, as an Administration irrevocably committed to good governance, particularly transparency and accountability, I hereby highlight some of the achievements of your government under my watch in the last one year. Each of our five developmental pillars represented by the ISEYA acronym manifested in programmes and projects that are clearly visible in all the parts of the state and are delivering benefits to our people. It is worth emphasising that these projects were selected by the host communities, through the Community Development Associations, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, in line with our participatory and inclusive approach to governance. 8. ISEYA is an acronym, as you all know where I stands for Infrastructure; S for Social Welfare and Social Wellbeing; E for Education; Y for Youth Empowerment; and A for Agriculture. 9. We recognise the importance of infrastructure to the economic development and wellbeing of our people. We therefore embarked on an aggressive infrastructural development programme covering roads, energy and ICT, amongst others. In this regard, this Administration awarded contracts to reconstruct a number of critical roads across the state, totalling 165.30 km. Some of these have been completed and in use, such as Raypower , Osi-Ikola-Navy Road in Ota; Ashafa- Oke Fusigboye – Molipa Road in Ijebu-Ode; Ago-Iwoye Road Oru , Fajol American Junction – Gbonagun Road in Abeokuta, Vespa-Orita meje in Ifo and the Hospital road Sagamu amongst others. Other ongoing reconstruction works include Ijebu-Ode – Epe Road, Elite Oke-Lantoro – Isale Ake Road abeokuta , Sagamu Interchange – Abeokuta Road, Oba Einwole Road in Sagamu, and the road around Odo Afa Bridge, Idiroko -Ipokia Road, in Ipokia. We have rehabilitated a total of 72.75km of roads and carried out palliative measures on other roads totalling 88.60km. 10. I am proud that we have kept our promise that all the inherited projects that have a direct bearing on the continued development of our dear State will not be abandoned. In fact, those that could no longer be used for their initial purposes will be converted to other uses for the benefit of the good people of our dear State. Indeed, works are ongoing at various sites of the inherited legacy road projects in the three Senatorial Districts. Examples are Kuto-NNPC Road and Bridge in Abeokuta, Adatan-Gbonagun-Obantoko-Osiele Road, Ilaro-Owode Road, Oluwalogbon-Imowo-Ejinrin Road, Ijebu-Ode, and others. The Ogun State Public Works Agency (OGPWA) has been mandated to carry out palliative works on 25 – 30 km township and rural roads monthly. Other road constructions that will commence this year include the Agbara- Atan Lusada road, ilishan- Ago Iwoye Road, Denro Ishasi Akute road Shiun Owode Ofada Mowe road amongst others. While we shall be completing Sagamu-Abeokuta Road, Ijebu-Ode-Epe and Ilaro-Owode roads just to mention a few. 11. There is a consensus that energy is very central to both the economic prosperity and general wellbeing of the society. Our Administration thus embarked on a number of key initiatives to boost energy supply, both for the industries and domestic use. We established the Ogun State Energy and Electricity Board, the first of its kind in the history of the State. The Board coordinates all the interventions in the sector. And I am delighted to note that the Board has facilitated the signing of Memoranda of Understanding with two reputable energy firms that will add not less than 100MW to the energy supply to our state. This figure will almost double the existing public power supply. In addition, the Board will also provide technical training to our youth to serve as technicians, metering officers amongst others, thus creating employment opportunities. 12. Health is wealth is not just a cliché. it is indeed a truism that has been brought further home with the COVID-19 pandemic. A healthy nation is a happy nation. Whilst confronting the pandemic was a major health challenge, we scaled up our health care facilities not only to confront the pandemic but to generally improve on healthcare service delivery in the state. Towards this end, our hub-and-spoke approach that puts Primary Health Centres (PHC’s) at the base delivered the rehabilitation of about 100 primary healthcare centres across our twenty local government areas. Furthermore, we have also commenced the renovation and equipping of our secondary and tertiary health facilities with and special attention to rejuvenate the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) the apex healthcare facility in the state. The newly inaugurated Board of the teaching hospital has since swung into action. And OOUTH is on the path to recover its lost glory. 13. Our efforts to ensure health and wellbeing of our people have elicited recognition and support of partners including the World Health Organisation (WHO). In fact, Ogun State is one of the only two states in the country that WHO has chosen for collaboration to combat non-communicable diseases such as hypertension. Under our watch, we have increased the number of regular operational ambulances in the state from 6 to 17 and also extended the operating period to 24 hours a day across the three senatorial districts. Furthermore, we now have tricycle ambulances to be distributed to all the twenty local government areas for deployment in our rural communities. We will continue to increase the stock of our tricycle ambulances to ensure all of our Rural wards have a tricycle ambulance each. 14. This Administration employed over 300 health workers of all categories, including consultants, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physiotherapists, laboratory technologists, amongst others, for OOUTH and other government hospitals. This is the first time of such exercise in over a decade. We also reviewed their salaries and allowances upwards to serve as appreciation of their very demanding roles, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to also motivate them. In addition, we have also provided medical insurance for all our frontline health workers. 15. To ease access to affordable health services to all, Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme will take off fully in the first quarter of this year. A seed fund of N100 Million Naira has since been committed. 16. Other progarmmes to ensure social wellbeing that will be intensified in 2021 are the implementation of the Residents Idenitication Cards to provide a reliable database of people living in Ogun State. Our Amotekun Security Network will also take off this month to complement the efforts of other security agencies including the community policing of the Nigeria Police. An experienced and reputable retired Commissioner of Police has been appointed as the Commandant, and the recruitment of personnel is ongoing. 17. To address the housing deficit, our Housing programme aims to provide 2,500 housing units over the next two years. We have completed 130 units of the first phase of the Prince Court Estate at Kemta Idi-Aba in Abeokuta, with the second phase of 150 units nearing completion. Other estates in various stages of completion and commencement across the states are in Kobape (Abeokuta), Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, Ilaro, Otta, and Iperu. We have also completed the first phase 51 units of The King’s Court, a unique middle to upper income housing estate at Oke-Mosan in Abeokuta. Ogun State has also been chosen by the Federal Government, through the Economic Sustainablity Programmes, as one of the five pilot states in the country to benefit from the Social Housing Programmes. This will provide 10,000 social housing units to our people. Thus, in total, 12,500 housing units will become available in Ogun State. This housing programmes will not only provide affordable homes, but will also particularly create direct employment opportunities for no fewer than 75,000 of our artisans, housing professionals, and other service providers. 18. The Building Our Future Together Agenda necessarily has the youth as the focus, because indeed Ogun youth, with their majority population and promising outlook, represent the future of our State. Youth empowerment was one of the first areas of our intervention at inception. We developed and deployed the Ogun Job portal to dimension the unemployment problems and have commenced the implementation of the Ogun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OG-YES). Through this scheme, 5,000 youth across the twenty local government areas are being enrolled. To date, we have over 20,000 beneficiaries of our various employment schemes, particularly our Agric programmes such as the Anchor Borrowers Programme. We will continue and even broaden the scope of our various youth empowerment and job creation initiatives in the new year. In the meantime, I thank Ogun Youths again for their maturity and largely peaceful conduct, particularly during and after the #EndSARS protest. I enjoin them to continue to remain worthy Ambassadors of our State. 19. The proud heritage of Ogun State as the Education Capital of the nation has been enhanced by our Administration through a number of deliberate policies and projects. We have built or rehabilitated over 954 classrooms in our public schools. This will be further intensified in year 2021. We were the first State to introduce virtual learning, Ogun digiclass during COVID-19 to ensure continuity of education of our children during the lockdown. This investment has paid off. Our children won eleven (11) awards at Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientists (JETS) competition, amongst others. The tertiary education also received increased attention. We ensured accreditation of the programmes of our tertiary institutions by the relevant authorities. We also resolved the seemingly intractable crisis in Moshood Abiola Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta (MAPOLY) and Tai Solarin College of Education, Omu Ijebu (TASCE). For the first time in so many years, we have restored payment of bursaries to Ogun State students in tertiary institutions across the country. Their Verification exercise has commenced after which the disbursement will be effected. I have also approved the award of scholarships to deserving students who have excelled in their academic pursuit. It is also gratifying that one of our tertiary institutions, Gateway Institute of Technology, Igbesa, won the Award of The Most Compliant Institution by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). No doubt, learning outcome has a direct link to the level of welfare and motivation of the teachers. It is in recognition of this that we have placed a high premium on the welfare of our teachers. Our Administration restored the appointment and has since sworn in Principals-General and Headteachers-General to enhance the career growth of teachers. 20. Our Agriculture programme has been a resounding success and has received wide acclaim. It has deepened the proud legacies of our State as the number one in cassava production nationwide and number one in poultry. In the South West, we hold the ace as the number one in rice production. Thus, we are fast becoming the food basket of the nation. In addition to significant contribution to food security, our Agric programme has created Agricpreneurs, especially amongst our youths. Our youths have successfully enrolled in a number of programmes such as the Anchor Borrowers Programme, The Fadama Guys, The Broiler projects, amongst others. The value chain approach has also linked 8,500 Ogun indigenes to inputs and credit under the FGN-IFAD-Ogun Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in Rice and Cassava value chain . Over 70,000 farmers have been registered for different commodities. In this year, we will be intensifying focus on nutrition as part of our Agricultural Agenda by assisting and encouraging value chain actors to grow bio-fortified crops, such as Vitamin A cassava and maize. To further develop capacity, Ogun State has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, to upgrade the Odeda Farm Institute into a Diploma Awarding Research and Training Institution. 21. Our focus on the I.S.E.Y.A development pillars has not diminished our commitment to the welfare of the Ogun State public servants, who are the fulcrum for the implementation of the “Building Our Future Together” Agenda and development plans. Our Administration has implemented a number of initiatives to demonstrate our commitment to staff welfare in consonance with the central role they play in the effective implementation of government programmes and policies. Notable amongst these is the timely payment of salaries and the commencement of the payment of the minimum wage of N30,500.00 to public servants in the State from October, 2020. Though this has put a further strain on our finances, we firmly believe that only a well motivated workforce can be expected to perform the roles of the backbone for implementation of government programmes and policies. We appreciate the Ogun State Public Servants and we are committed to their welfare. 22. It is gratifying that our various efforts and accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. We have won quite a number of awards, which I highlight as follows: • Best State in ICT Penetration and Adoption by the National Council on Communication and Digital Economy • Best State in ICT Infrastructure Development also by the National Council on Communication and Digital Economy • Best State Governor with the Most Improved Security by Business Day Newspaper • Best Governor in Education by the National Parent-Teacher Association of Nigeria • Best Governor in Agriculture by the Nigerian Agriculture Awards • Best Governor in Affordable Housing Delivery by the Nigerian Housing Awards 23. My dear good people of Ogun State, these awards are neither for me, nor my team or government alone. The true honourees are you, the good people of Ogun State. Without your mandate in the first instance that provided us the platform to serve, these awards could not have come. As we all savour the awards, with all sense of modesty, they come with an expectation and burden to improve on our performance in the new year. Now our State is under focus, and we must remain the torchbearers of the legacy of excellence bequeathed to us. 24. On our part as your Government, let me reassure you that we will continue to formulate people friendly policies and programmes that will ensure increased prosperity for all our people and continued development of our dear State. As a matter of fact, we are going to focus more on deepening the ISEYA Agenda in the new year. And we have started. Just two days ago, I signed the year 2021 Budget aptly named “Budget of Recovery and Sustainability” with a size of N338.6 Billion. That fiscal document will aid us in ensuring strategic allocation of resources to the different sectors of our economy. 25. As we enter into the New Year, we do so with great hope and in high spirit. We should set our eyes and mind at the lofty goals of achieving the Ogun State of our collective dreams. This cannot be attained without deliberate efforts from of all of us. We also expect our people to continue to support, cooperate, collaborate and partner with us towards the successful implementation of our “Building our Future Together” Agenda. 26. Therefore, we must remain together as a people. We must work together to ensure that the future of our dear State, that this Administration is committed to building comes to fruition. We have demonstrated our commitment in the last 18 months. And, the next one year promises to be even better. By the grace of God, your support and our commitment, we will recover some of the lost grounds of the year 2020. The environment may seem inclement and the outlook may look dim. Nonetheless, we have no doubt that as a people we have a history and legacies of triumph over travails We will continue to sustain the Building our Future Together Agenda. We will break new grounds and together, we will prevail. 27. By this time next year, I have no doubt that when we are ushering another year, we will all look up to say it has been an awesome year. In this journey, be assured that as your Governor I will work shoulder-to-shoulder with you in taking full advantage of our human and material potentials for the continued development of our dear State. 28. My Dear good people of Ogun State, you will recall that our nation, including our dear state, was painfully but unavoidably locked down for months as part of the effort to combat the deadly COVID-19. The second wave of COVID-19 is here. And medical scientists have warned that this wave is more contagious and may be deadlier. Events in other countries, including those with better health care facilities, are frightening. Even here in Nigeria, infection rate has gone up. In fact, the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 has warned that January may be a worse period for Nigeria since the pandemic. But there is a silver lining if we all take individual responsibility for our health and encourage our loved ones to also do so. We must abide with all the non-pharmaceutical guidelines, such as proper wearing of face masks, social distancing and regular washing of our hands. We can ill-afford another lockdown or a repeat of the unpleasant experiences of year 2020. I hereby call on all stakeholders, including our traditional rulers, religious leaders, Community Leaders, the media, and indeed all of us to spread this message that is vital to our survival. Certainly, COVID-19 is real; no doubt, the second wave is here, and the consequences are grave, if we fail to observe the prescribed protocols. Though vaccines have been found, but there is no telling when they will be available in Nigeria. It is my prayer that 2021 will see the end of this deadly disease and usher in more prosperity for us all. 29. I cannot end this address without thanking the good people of Ogun State. You have demonstrated and kept faith with us just as we have also kept faith with you. But the journey ahead requires even more collaboration between your Government and you the people. I have no doubt that with your support no odd is insurmountable and there’s no mountain we cannot climb or flatten. 30. I thank all our health workers and the security agencies. I thank our traditional rulers and our religious leaders. I thank all Ogun workers, business owners, both in the formal and informal sectors. I appreciate the political class. I thank all the Community Development Councils (CDCs) and the Community Development Associations (CDAs). I thank all all our youths i thank all those who have advised us, those who have commended us and indeed those who have reasons to differ with us. All of these have continued to challenge us to be better than what we were at the beginning and to surpass what we met on ground. I know that when people put on your shoulders a trust of this magnitude, it is more than a honour, you have a moral burden to repay. And, the only currency of that repayment is selfless service. Even though, I am very proud, honoured and privileged to have been elected under the platform of our great party the All Progressive Congress (APC). I however remain the Governor of all Ogun State citizens and those that have made our dear State their home. This remains my pledge to Ogun State and our People. 31. Let me as your Governor, specially wish you all a HAPPY peaceful, prosperous, fruitful and promising 2021. And as we begin the New Year, let us abide with all safety precautions. 32. As always, I will like to remind us all that Igbega Ipinle Ogun, Ajose gbogbo wa ni! 33. I thank you for listening and God bless. Prince Dapo Abiodun, MFR Governor of Ogun State, Nigeria. Friday, 1st January, 2021

When Governor Abiodun had just spent a year in office, much was said about his keeping to promise and the many projects he had both embarked on and completed. No one, however, foresaw the magnitude of what more would have been done year after, 29th May, 2021. Some of the numerous achievements of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration in Ogun State within the last two years are briefly highlighted below.

EDUCATION

1.Teacher Employment to Fill Vacancies: In March, 2021, the Ogun State Government commenced the Ogun State Teaching Experience Acquisition Channel (Ogun TEACh), a paying special intervention two-year scheme set up to fill the existing vacancies in the public primary and secondary schools as well as technical colleges in the State.

2. School Construction: In what has been popular tagged the “Yellow Roof Revolution,” the Ogun State Government within the past two years has embarked on a massive overhaul of the face of education in the State. Structure erected in different schools across the State’s 20 LGAs include classrooms, hostels, toilets, offices, stores, and equipped e-libraries/computer rooms. These structures are visible and verifiable in almost all public primary and secondary schools, even as the project is ongoing. At the same time, 570 schools have been rehabilitated (with reconstruction, reinforcement, and reroofing) till date across Ogun State within the period under review. These schools include even the Emeritus Ogunlesi Model School in Sagamu, the construction of which was left half done by the last administration as at May 29, 2019.

3. Reward for Outstanding Performance: On 22nd April, 2021, Governor Abiodun gave special recognition to Ms Faith Odunsi and Mr Oladimeji Shotunde, amongst others. Odunsi had topped the Global Open Mathematics Competition, as Shotunde emerged Best Graduating Student of the Lagos State University, LASU. While the State Government launched an endowment fund seeded with 5million Naira for Ms Odunsi, it awarded Mr Shotunde a 2-bedroom bungalow and a 2million Naira cash prize, as 32 other teachers and students got various other prizes.

4. Schools’ Security: Governor Abiodun, towards better securing the lives of pupils and students especially as the Nation battles insecurity, approved the employment of security personnel for each state-owned school.

5. Free Education Policy: Governor Abiodun instructed the implementation of a truly free education policy, with the cancellation of all forms of levies in primary and secondary schools.

6. Facilities for Schools: The administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun procured 25,000 tables and chairs for distribution to and use by pupils and students of state-owned primary and secondary schools in the State.

7. Increase in Running Cost, Feeding Allowance: For the better administration of schools, Governor Abiodun approved a 120% increase in the running cost allocated and paid to all state-owned primary and secondary schools in the State. The Governor also approved a 50% increase in feeding allowance for learners in special needs schools.

8. 2019/2020 Promotion: Following the issuing of 2016/2017 (GL02 – 13) promotion letters to teachers after Governor Abiodun’s instruction in 2019, teachers due for the 2019/2020 promotion got their promotion after the express instructions of the Governor.

9. MAPOLY/TASCE Resuscitation: Governor Abiodun facilitated the return of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ojere and Tai Solarin College of Education to their status of envy. Both institutions, following numerous interventions including the inauguration of a 12-member Governing Council, are now active, with academic activities ongoing smoothly.

10. Bursary Payment: Governor Abiodun has seen to the payment of bursary to Ogun State indigenes in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

11. Education Trust Fund: In the period under review, Governor Abiodun of two hundred milllion Naira (N200,000,000) as State Education Trust Fund, meant for the development of infrstaructure in state-owned tertiary institutions.

12. EMIS Construction: The State Government, through the Ogun State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, has seen to the repositioning and construction of the Central Education Management Information System, EMIS for data gathering, analysis and presentation.

13. State School, Most Compliant Nationally: The Ogun State Institute of Technology, a state-owned tertiary institution, won Best Compliant Institution in Nigeria from the Joint Admission and Matriculations Board, JAMB worth 75million Naira.

INFRASTRUCTURE

14. Road: Since he became the Executive Governor of Ogun State in May 2019, His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun has made good his promise to develop road infrastructure with an even distribution and commitment of resources and time to all senatorial districts of the State.

In Ogun West, the reconstruction of Raypower Road and Imasayi-Ayetoro Road has been completed and the new roads are already being used by motorists, while Oke Ola Road in Imeko and Owode-Ilaro Road are currently being reconstructed. Also, the Government has reconstructed the Odo Afa Road and Bridge in Ipokia LGA. It’d be recalled that the road and bridge had been in an unfavourable condition for use over a long period of time. Of particular importance is the 19.2km Agbara-Lusada-Atan Road which had long been abandoned despite the industrial significance of the region to the State’s economy.

The road project, which was flagged off by HE Prince Dapo Abiodun on Thursday, April 29, 2021, is going at a commendable pace that will deliver a quality road on completion. It’d also be recalled that in the same month, the Governor commissioned the 10.25km Lusada-Igbesa Road which was constructed by the Ogun Guangdong Free Trade Zone in partnership with the Ogun State Government.

In Ogun East, completed road projects include: Oru-Awa-Ilaporu-Ibadan Road, Fusigboye-Ojofa Street Road and Asafa Oke-Asafa Isale-Ayegun-Ojofa Street Road in Ijebu Ode. Other projects, which are ongoing, include: the 14km Ijebu Ode-Epe Expressway; Oba Erinwole Dual Carriageway, Sagamu; Molusi College Road; Ilishan Market Road; 11km Atan-Erunwon Road; Ogbagba Street Road; and Ejinrin-Oluwalogbon-Mobalufon-Ibadan Road.

In Ogun Central, completed road projects include: Obantoko Road (Fajol-American Junction-Unity Estate-Gbonagun); Idi Aba-Oke Lantoro Road; and Ikoritameje-Adenrele/Olose Titun-Vespa Road. Ongoing project which are nearing completion at a commendable pace include: construction of the 42km Abeokuta-Sagamu Interchange; reconstruction of Panseke-Adigbe Road; as well as extension of the proposed gate Development at Sagamu Interchange. In Ifo LGA, roadworks are ongoing on Akute-Denro-Ishasi-Oluwakemi Road.

15. Housing: The Ogun State Government has completed the construction of the King’s Court Estate it is executing in Abeokuta, the State Capital, after final touches were put in March 2021 by the Ogun State Property and Investment Corporation which is handling the project intended for middle-class income earners. At the same time, Phase II of the Prince Court Estate at Kemta Idi-Aba is almost completed. It’d be recalled that Phase I, which delivered 150 low-cost housing units, was completed in the first year of the current administration. Finally, while the Government plans to extend its housing scheme to other areas such as Ota, Ilaro, Sagamu, Ikenne and Ijebu Ode, it is already currently constructing an affordable housing estate in Kobape. The project is about 60% completed.

16. Water: In the period under review, the Ogun State Government embarked on the rehabilitation of the Iberekodo Dam. As at May 28, 2021, remarkable progress has been made, with five new gates installed as well as gear hoists, cofferdam demolished, and water flow restored. With water flow already restored, the Ogun State Water Corporation is almost set to recommence supply.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT, WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION

17. Potable Water Provision: The Ogun State Government, through the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency In the period under review rehabilitated a total of nine (9) hand and motorised boreholes into complete solar-powered boreholes in Odeda, while constructing two (2) new ones. In Yewa North LGA, eight (8) boreholes have been rehabilitated with solar power, while five (5) have been fully constructed. Five (5) hand and motorised boreholes were also rehabilitated in Ado Odo/Ota LGA, while thirteen (13) new ones were constructed. In Ipokia LGA, twelve (12) new solar-powered boreholes were constructed, while eight (8) were rehabilitated. While this rehabilitation and construction projects are ongoing, those already executed have brought the needed relief to residents who had in the past had to search for potable water or settle for what they could lay their hands on.

18. Electricity: The State Government has commissioned the 100KWp solar mini-grid Hybrid Electrification System at Olooji Community. Equally, Atapa Community in Ogun Central Senatorial District and Koto Obo in Ogun West have also been provided with complete Household Solar Lighting Systems.

19. Modernising Fish Processing: The Government, through the Ministry of Rural Development, fabricated and distributed a large number of modern smoking kilns to fish processors in different LGAs including Ikenne, Sagamu, Odogbolu, Ijebo Ode, Obafemi Owode, among others.

20. Township Road: The 6km Koriko Village Road that leads to Association of Senior Civil Servant Housing Scheme was upgraded in the period under review, to ease hardship faced by residents and other road users.

HEALTH

21. COVID-19 Containment: Despite being the state to host the index case of the dreaded coronavirus in February 2020, Ogun State contained the virus in a laudable manner with quick and effective moves taken by the State Ministry of Health up to the point of vaccination. The State has a record of low fatalities, with: 70,200 persons tested, 4,600 treated, 80,000 vaccinated, and 50 fatalities.

22. PHC Renovation: In the period under review, a total of forty0two (42) Primary Health Centres, PHCs have been renovated and equipped, with sixty (60) others ongoing across the 20 LGAs of the State. This is to improve access to healthcare, especially at the grassroots.

23. Hospital Renovation: Ongoing in three (3) different locations is the renovation of State General Hospitals. These are in Idiroko, Ibiade and Odeda. The Government has also carried out some construction at, while also renovating, the State General Hospitals in Iberekodo and Ijebu Ife. Renovation has also been carried out at the 120-bed Mother-and-Child Ward at the State General Hospital in Iperu.

24. Healthcare Worker Recruitment: In September 2020, Governor Abiodun approved the recruitment of medical staff across cadres, including resident doctors, nurses, pharmacists and others. The Governor gave specific instructions to all state-owned hospitals to recruit 20 consultant doctors, to address the existent shortfall at the time. As at May 28, 2021, a total of three hundred and ten (310) medical staff have been employed by the State Government – from consultant to attendants.

25. OOUTH Mortuary, A&E: The Mortuary and Accident & Emergencies, A&E Unit of the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, OOUTH, Sagamu have been upgraded. This is as the State Government conducted a total overhaul of the Mortuary with six (6) freezers and renovated the A&E Unit.

26. 24-Hour Ambulance Service: In the period under review, the Ogun State Government launched its 24-hour ambulance service across the State. In addition to this clear improvement in the effectiveness of ambulances within the State, the number of available ambulances has also increased within the period under review. As at May 2019, the State had barely six (6) ambulances, but as at now, there are twenty-one (21) ambulances, with plans underway to have about thirty (30) for easier access to prompt healthcare delivery. Already, for better access, an ambulance unit has been established in each of all nine (9) Federal Constituency in the State.

27. Basic Health Care Provision Fund: The administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun has paid the sum of 100million Naira as commitment fund into the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. The Fund targets persons categorised as vulnerable, including the aged, pregnant women, and children under the age of 5. Already, the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency, through its 236 officers-in-charge and ward development chairmen trained for this purpose, has commenced registration of 20,000 beneficiaries for free healthcare across all 20 LGAs. Also, N600,000 has already been disbursed for the implementation of the Fund to 196 PHCs, and payment will continue monthly with N100,000.

28. Tricycle Ambulances: Towards easing access to public health facilities especially in emergencies, the Ogun State Government distributed 34 tricycle ambulances to rural PHCs to reduce maternal and infant mortality which may have increased due to the remote location of the areas.

COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY

29. Mobility for Business Permit: The Ogun State Government procured ten (10) motorcycles and a combination of minibuses and car numbering ten (10) for use by officers in the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment towards improving service delivery on Business Premises Permit.

30. Survival Funds: The Government of Prince Dapo Abiodun, in the period under review, facilitated access to the five streams of the Survival Funds including CAC Formalisation Support (over 5,000 registrants) and Payroll Support (5,200 MSME beneficiaries).

31. Fire Victims’ Compensation: Towards returning them to shape, Governor Abiodun approved compensation for traders affected by the Olabisi Onabanjo International Market fire outbreak of December, 2019 in Ita-Osu, Ijebu Ode. The compensation was meant for the traders to restructure their stalls, and it was disbursed less than twelve (12) days after the inferno.

32. Trade Fair: In the period under review (precisely Q2 2021), the Ogun State Government, in collaboration with the State Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, OGUNCCIMA organised the 10th Gateway International Trade Fair. Prior to this fair, the last was held in 2018.

33. National Promotion: The Ogun State Government, through its State Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment carried out a rigorous examination and appraisal exercise to ascertain eligible companies for the Nigeria Private Sector Leadership and Productivity Award organised by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity. All ten (10) companies nominated by the State Ministry won awards, further proving the conducive business environment of the State.

34. Raw Materials Resource Centre: Prince Dapo Abiodun approved payment of 2million Naira counterpart fund for the upgrade of the Raw Material Resource Centre to a state-of-the-art resource centre, towards attracting more investors into the State.

35. AfCTA State Action Committee: The Ogun State Government, under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun MFR, has facilitated the setting up of the State Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCTA. The Committee has as members: representatives of MDAs, private sector actors, and civil societies; and has the responsibilities of putting structures in place in readiness for the AfCTA.

TRANSPORT

36. ICT-Enabled Mass Transit Buses: On Tuesday, May 11, 2021, the Ogun State Government took delivery of high-capacity buses, which it said was the first batch of the technology-enabled vehicles to be used for the State’s Bus Mass Transit Scheme targeted at easing access to safe, public transportation as well as create jobs in the value chain while also giving the State internally generated revenue, IGR a boost.

ENERGY

37. Transformers for Institutions and Communities: The Ogun State Government, in the period under review, procured over 100 units of transformers for installation across educational institutions and residential communities across the State.s

DIGITAL ECONOMY AND EASE OF DOING BUSINESS

38. Digital Economy Infrastructure Project: On April 15, 2021, the Ogun State Government launched the Ogun State Digital Economy Infrastructure Project, OGDEIP. The project, which was approved by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy, will provide connectivity in key institutions, MDAs, and unconnected regions of the State through improved technology to ease the conduct of work and business both for the private and public sectors.

39. Road, Facilities for Adire Markets: Towards easing daily business activities in two Adire markets, the Ogun State Government in April 2021, provided an access road and three (3) boreholes for use by traders and buyers of the heritage fabric. Itoku Adire Market has been provided with two boreholes, while the Asero Market has been provided with one borehole. The access road, which would ease the movement of goods, traders and buyers, is currently being constructed in the Itoku Market.

WOMEN AFFAIRS, EMPOWERMENT AND SOCIAL WELFARE

40. Ogun Coders ICT Programme: In October 2020, 25 women in Ogun State benefited in Phase I of the AboCoders Programme, a free training programme organised for women between the ages of 16 and 35 by the State Government in collaboration with AboCoders (a subsidiary of Aspillos Foundation).

41. Rural Women Empowerment: The State Government, through the Office of the Deputy Governor, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, empowered 500 rural women, by supporting their retail businesses.

42. Family Planning: Within the period under review, the Ogun State Government established a family Planning Centre at State Hospital, Ijebu Ode to improve family planning uptake in women aged 15-49 years.

AGRICULTURE AND YOUTH EMPOWERMENT

43. Linkage for Job Creation: Over 26,540 jobs were created through the linkage of farmers and youths to agriculture opportunities through intervention programmes. The Ogun State Government provided input and facilitated the crediting of beneficiaries with over 1.5billion Naira in the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme and the FGN/IFAD/Ogun State Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP). In addition to this, 11,099 more jobs are set to be created in the current year 2021, as this number of applicants have registered to be first-batch beneficiaries of linkage to inputs and credit in five commodities which include: fisheries (720), oil palm (750), poultry (8,084), piggery (1,245) and cattle (300); under the Expanded CBN/Ogun Anchor Borrowers Programme

44. Cocoa Production: Towards reviving cocoa production, the State Government provided a total of 10,000 hectares of land In Iwoye-Ketu to cocoa farmers in the period under review. This land provision is covered under the CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme.

45. Ogun Broiler Project: Executed so far in the period under review and still ongoing is the Ogun Broiler Project that began with 54 pilot youth beneficiaries who made a cumulative profit of 450,000 Naira in three (3) cycles. The beneficiaries produced 162,000 broilers and 3.24 metric tonnes of broiler meat. With over 9,000 individuals showing interest in the flagship project, it is set to be replicated across all 20 local government areas of the State for even benefit to the people.

46. Input Palliatives to Smallholder Farmers: The Ogun State Government, in the period under review, provided improved planting materials to 40,000 smallholder farmers, while fertilizer was provided to target 10,000 smallholder farmers.

47. Tomato Production: The Ogun State Government facilitated the donation of about 100million tomato seeds to vegetable farmers across Ogun State. The seeds were donated by the Raw Materials Research Development Council, RMRDC.

48. Agro-Industrial Processing Zone: In the period under review, Ogun State was declared as the perfect location for the proposed Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone, SAPZ by the African Development Bank, AfDB. This was jointly re-established in March of 2021 by the AfDB and the International Fund for Agricultural Development during their working visit which applauded the Government’s initiative of the ongoing Ilishan-Remo Agro-Cargo Airport project.

49. OGSTEP: The ongoing World Bank/Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, OGSTEP is targeting 40,000 farmers in nine (9) priority value chains, which include: cassava, maize, rice, soya bean, tomatoes and pepper, sesame, fishery and poultry.

50. N-CARES: Ogun State is currently a beneficiary of the Wold Bank/Nigeria COVID-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus, N-CARES Project which would kick off next month, June 2021. The programme is funded by the International Development Association, IDA to support ICT services; water supply, sanitation and waste management; social protection; agricultural extension and research; and banking institutions in the aftermath of the dreaded coronavirus.

51. Animal Care: In order to improve access to animal care for animal lovers and breeders, the State Government facilitated the construction of a Primary Animal Health Centre (with equipment and consumables) at Ajegunle Farm Settlement in Odeda LGA. The project was donated by the Federal Government.

52. Land Clearing: In supporting youth in the State, the State Government together with the Federal Government cleared a total of 1,000 hectares of farmland at Apojola in Odeda LGA. The Federal Government collaborated the State Government to clear 400 hectares, while the remaining 600 were independently cleared by the State Government.

53. 200-Trainee Soil-Testing Programme: In the period under review, the Ogun State Government in collaboration with the National Agricultural Land Development Authority, NALDA initiated a 200-trainee soil-testing programme. Results of the collaboration include the setting up of an integrated farm estate as well as a garri packaging plant

54. Farm/Farmer Support: The Ogun State Government has constructed 20km access roads in Obafemi-Owode, Yewa North and Ijebu North East LGAs; 14 solar-powered water schemes in Ijebu North East, Obafemi-Owode, Yewa North, Ifo, Ijebu East, Odeda and Odogbolu LGAs; as well as 4 cassava processing centres at Baara, Alapako-oni, Oke iyemi and Ayetoro, and Rice Processing Centre in Eggua.

55. Agricultural Extension Service Delivery: In the period under review, the State Government through the Ogun State Agricultural Development Programme, OGADEP conducted a series of trainings with varied numbers of beneficiaries in different programmes. These include: 3rd batch of Anchor Borrowers Programme cassava beneficiaries in February 2021; 20 OGADEP extension workers and 2,520 farmers on cassava production and weed management, in collaboration with German International Cooperation, GIZ in March 2021; as well as 357 OGADEP extension agents and farmers on Pod Borer Resistance, PBR cowpea in July 2020.

SECURITY

56. Ogun State Security Trust Fund (OGSTF): In August 2019, Governor Dapo Abiodun launched the reinvigorated OGSTF. The Governor set up an oversight Committee to source for, receive and manage donations from the private sector, of funds and equipment for crime prevention. The Committee also mobilises these funds and resources for the training and retraining of security personnel. Already, within less than a year since Governor Abiodun signed the 2019 State Security Trust Fund Bill (as amended) into law, the OGSTF has made remarkable achievements that have strengthened the security architecture of the State and significant donations have been received from the private sector such as the 25 fully equipped operational vehicles donated by the Dangote Group on 8th May, 2020.

57. Donation of Patrol Vehicles & Motorbikes: In September 2019, the Abiodun-led Ogun State Government, through the OGSTF, donated 100 patrol vehicles and 200 motorcycles to the Ogun State Command of the Nigeria Police. The donations were gladly received by the Inspector General of police, Mohammed Adamu, who was in the State for the purpose. The Government on 28th April, 2020 again donated 15 additional operational vehicles and 91 motorbikes to security agencies in the State. The Nigerian Army got 2 vehicles, the NSCDC got 2, the DSS got 2, the NIS got 1, and the Police got an additional 5. Of the motorcycles, the Police received 69, while the QRS got 10, TRACE 10, and the NSCDC 2.

58. Handling COVID-19 Lockdown Security Unrest: The April donation of additional operational vehicles and motorbikes to numerous security agencies was a fulfilment of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s promise to provide material and logistic support to further strengthen the security architecture of the State. The Governor had made this promise in a 12th April statement which was released after the Ogun State Police Command made arrests of 150 suspects in connection with the security unrest that erupted within the Agbado Ijaiye, Sango, Ijoko and Ifo axis, when the State began enforcing the FG-directed COVID-19 lockdown. The Governor emphasised that in his usual manner of not condoning crime from any quarters, he immediately directed the Command and other relevant agencies to promptly move with full force against the criminals.

59. Yewa Crises: In the wake of the herder-farmer crises that rocked the Yewa region of Ogun State, Governor Abiodun immediately set up an Intervention Squad, as well as a Peace-Keeping Committee. The Squad is a multi-agency security troop saddled with the primary responsibility of returning peace to, and maintaining same within the region, while the Committee administered palliatives provided by the State Government to victims of the crises. Displaced victims were also appropriately rehoused, following the express instructions of the Governor.

60. Amotekun: On April 1, 2021, Governor Abiodun officially inaugurated the indigenous security outfit, AMOTEKUN Corps. The security outfit is an initiative of all Southwest Governors, to address the security challenges that were beginning to creep into the region.

YOUTH AND SPORTS

61. Adoption of Indigenous Star Athlete: On April 25, 2021, HE Prince Dapo Abiodun announced that the Ogun State Government was adopting 24-year old Oluwatobiloba Ayomide Amusan, an indigene of Ogun State who won in the 2018 Commonwealth and 2019 African championships. 100m hurdler Amusan ranked 4th in the world in Doha (2019) and would be representing Nigeria at the Tkyo Olympics. With a view to doing more of such adoptions, the Government is now saddled with certain responsibilities such as provision of sponsorship for official sports competitions that Amusan may be interested in the future.

62. NYSC Camp Renovation: The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC Camp in Ogun State was renovated in the period under review. Members of the NYSC Board, led by its Chairman, Amb. Fatimah Abubakar, were in the State on April 20, 2021 and adjudged that Ogun State had one of the best orientation camps in Nigeria.

63. 20th National Sports Festival: Governor Abiodun, in April 2021, approved appropriate funding for the participation of the State contingent in the 20th National Sports Festival (Edo 2020) held in Edo State between April 2 – 15. The State held 8th position on the Medal Table among the 36 states in Nigeria, with 78 medals including 16 Gold, 23 Silver, and 39 Bronze.

64. Nigerian Women Football League: Ogun State, in the period under review, hosted the Nigerian Women Football League, the Nation’s biggest women sports event, at the Otunba Dipo Dina International Stadium, Ijebu Ode. The winner of the league would later proceed to represent Nigeria at the CAF Women Championship League.

65. GUFC Complex Renovation: The one-storey Gateway United Football Club, GUFC complex at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, which also serves as the GUFC Secretariat but was met by the current administration on May 29, 2019 has been brought back to life with total renovation befitting of a State sports complex.

EMPLOYMENT AND EMPLOYMENT GENERATION

66. Ogun TEACh: The paying special intervention two-year Ogun State Teaching Experience Acquisition Channel (Ogun TEACh) is one of the Ogun State Government’s approach to filling the vacancies in teaching positions of public primary and secondary schools. Employees, who were selected after a transparent selection process, may be accommodated into the full-time teaching service of the State at the expiration of their initial two years.

67. Ogun Job Portal: Launched in August 2019, the Ogun Job Portal has continued to connect unemployed persons and business owners seeking expansion, with their desired benefactors. The State Government has utilised the online platform to get details of applicants for employment and empowerment in different sectors, especially education, security and agriculture.

RECOGNITION OF ACHIEVEMENTS BY INDEPENDENT BODIES

The foregoing are clear achievements that have been lauded by independent organisations, who deemed HE Prince Dapo Abiodun and his administration worthy of commendation and recognition. The Governor has received, within the period under review, six (6) awards that recognised stellar achievements in different sectors.

Commerce and Industry: SMEs Most Supportive Governor 2019 by Association of Small Business Owners of Nigeria, ASBON

Education: (1) 2020 Best Governor on Education in Nigeria by the National Parent-Teacher Association, PTA in November 2020.

(2) Best Education-Friendly Governor by All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, ANCOPSS

Agriculture: (1) 2020 Governor of the Year Award by the Nigeria Agriculture Awards, NAA in December 2020.

(2) Most Improved State on Agriculture and Economic Empowerment 2020 by Business Day Awards in April 2021.

Security: Most Improved State on Security Infrastructure 2019 (based on “100 days” parameters) by Business Day Awards in April 2021.

CONCLUSION

The enviable record set by the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration is a mind-settler that reassures the voting people that the votes they cast two years ago are not a waste. HE Dapo Abiodun has been fair in the distribution of developmental projects across sectors and sub-regions, restoring a sense of belonging to any sector or sub-region that might have hitherto been marginalised. Ogun State can only sit back and expect more and better results in the years to come.

PREPARED BY: SF Ojo Emmanuel.

SSA to the Governor on New Media.

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Among His Peers, Oba Orin Saheed Osupa Stands Out : The Fuji Star’s Storytelling Legacy

By Alhaji Arems

In the vibrant world of Fuji music, where the artistry of storytelling and cultural commentary thrive, Saheed Osupa has carved out a unique role as both an artist and an influencer of thought. Recently, his name has been lighting up social media discussions and generating significant buzz—not just because of his music but because of the depth of his words. Osupa’s trending status is rooted in his ability to subtly address pressing issues, particularly those surrounding the ongoing tension between fellow Fuji musicians Taye Currency and Pasuma Wonder.

Osupa’s recent contributions to this situation have not been straightforward; rather, he has adopted an artistic approach, using parables and proverbs—sometimes through complex storytelling—to impart wisdom. These nuanced messages, often hidden within his lyrics, resonate with fans who appreciate the clever way he brings age-old Yoruba wisdom into contemporary issues. One notable example involves a story about an animal (traditionally symbolizing patience and resilience) that many believe reflects Osupa’s thoughts on rivalry and pride. Through this parable, he seems to suggest the importance of self-reflection and restraint, especially in the heat of conflict.

In a genre that values not only musicality but also the power of words, Osupa has long been seen as a master of *itan*, or storytelling. His recent songs echo the traditional Yoruba way of imparting wisdom through tales that serve as lessons. This is a skill that few artists have mastered, making his approach particularly impactful in today’s fast-paced digital world, where nuanced messages can often be overlooked.

Beyond the Taye Currency-Pasuma Wonder issue, Osupa’s trending status is also due to his reputation as a voice of reason and maturity in Fuji music. As a genre that is often vibrant and full of competitive spirit, Fuji has its share of rivalries. Yet, Osupa has often stood out by promoting unity and peaceful dialogue among Fuji artists. By sharing these reflective stories in his music, he adds layers of meaning that fans continue to unpack and discuss, drawing new audiences who appreciate both the artistry and wisdom behind his words.

The charm of Saheed Osupa lies in his timeless approach. In a world where trends are fleeting, he reminds fans of the importance of timeless values, urging reflection, humility, and understanding. As fans interpret and share his latest stories, Osupa’s message continues to resonate widely—proof that, in Fuji, the power of words can be as influential as the beat of the drum.

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

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What You Need To Know About Award-Winning Nigerian Actor, Mustapha Sholagbade

Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade, born on January 1, 1989, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, is an accomplished Nigerian actor, producer, and filmmaker with a deep passion for Yoruba cinema. Originally from Abeokuta, Ogun State, he is the first child in his family. Sholagbade began his education at Kadara Primary School and continued at Sojomen Talabi High School, Akute, and Nawairudeen Secondary School, Ebute Metta. He later earned an Ordinary Narional Diploma in Business Administration from the Lagos State Polytechnic. Pursuing his passion for acting, he trained at Odunfa Caucus, where he graduated in 2010.

Sholagbade launched his acting career in 2005, making a name for himself in Yoruba-language films. His portfolio includes roles in popular films like Olowo Ghetto, Alaimo, Ebun Mi, Esi, Gold and Treasure, Liam, Emilomo Babaolowo, Oko Aunty Mi, Broken Bond (Tude), and Last Born. In addition to acting, he has also produced several films, further cementing his influence in the industry.

Beyond the entertainment world, Sholagbade is a versatile professional with experience in railway engineering, IT support, and site management in the UK. He is also a farmer and general merchant, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and diverse skill set.

Throughout his career, Sholagbade has collaborated with top figures in Yoruba cinema, such as Yinka Quadri, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, Funke Akindele, Femi Adebayo, Odun Adekola, Oga Bello, Baba Wande, Jide Kosoko, Funsho Adeolu, Fathia William Balogun, Saidi Balogun, Wunmi Toriola, and Mide Martins.

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Sholagbade’s talent and dedication to his craft have earned him numerous accolades, including: Best Actor Yoruba – BON Awards, 2024, Best Supporting Actor– Afro Nollywood Awards, UK, 2019, Best Supporting Actor– Heritage Awards, Atlanta, USA, Best Supporting Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards, Best New Actor of the Year (Yoruba) – City People Movie Awards.

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Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

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November 4, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Coalition Congratulates Oluyede on Appointment as Acting COAS

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Terrorism in Nigeria has congratulated Major-General Olufemi Oluyede on his appointment as the acting Chief of Army Staff, (Ag COAS, Nigerian Army).

The Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Oladimeji Odeyemi, in a statement, said General Oluyede has the responsibility to consolidate the success achieved by the Nigerian Army under General Taoreed Lagbaja.

President Bola Tinubu had on Wednesday, October 30, appointed Oluyede as acting COAS pending the return of the indisposed substantive Chief of Army Staff, General Taoreed Lagbaja.

The Coalition said his appointment is a welcome development. It said: “Major-General Olufemi Oluyede is well qualified for the position. He was a member of the 39th regular course and commissioned as an officer in 1987. Aged 56, he was promoted to the rank of Major-General in September 2020. A professional and top-notch security expert, he brings a lot of hope and inspiration to younger officers as acting chief of Army Staff.

“His appointment is the way to go. As the acting Chief of Army Staff, Oluyede has the responsibility to lead an army that will administratively manage the institution, consolidate on the success achieved by General Lagbaja and his team to mop up remnants of insurgents, bandits and the ragtag criminal elements in the North, and dismantle the ethnic militias in the Southeast to bring peace in the country.

“The 56-year-old Oluyede shares a long history with General Lagbaja, with a track record and excellent service to the nation. Both are members of the 39th Regular Course and were commissioned as officers in 1987.

“Oluyede’s meritorious career began as a Platoon commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, advancing to Company commander at 177 Guards Battalion and later Staff Officer at the Guards Brigade and commandant of Amphibious Training School.

“Oluyede has been part of many notable operations, including the ECOMOG Mission in Liberia, Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, and Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, where he commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade.

“He has received honours, including the Corps Medal of Honour, and Grand Service Star, all recognition for passing the Staff Course and membership in the National Institute, and his dedication and achievements in service.”