society
OGSTEP Flags Off Final World Bank Implementation Support Mission, Showcases Statewide Gains
OGSTEP Flags Off Final World Bank Implementation Support Mission, Showcases Statewide Gains
The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) on Monday, December 1, 2025, commenced its 8th and final Implementation Support Mission (ISM), marking a milestone in the state’s reform and development agenda. The opening ceremony, held at Park Inn by Radisson, Abeokuta, convened government officials, the World Bank Task Team, sector experts and implementing agencies to assess achievements and map sustainability strategies.
Declaring the session open, Chairman of the Project Steering Committee, the Chief Economic Adviser to the Governor and Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, described the event as “a defining moment in our development trajectory.” He noted that OGSTEP, guided by the vision of Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, has strengthened institutions, expanded economic opportunities, and built a resilient platform for sustainable growth. He highlighted gains across the Business Enabling Environment, Agriculture, and Skills Development components, praising the Governor for providing “the political will and enabling environment that allowed these reforms to take root.”
Also speaking, Chairman of the Project Technical Committee and Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, emphasized that the final mission represents “the culmination of years of collaboration, refinement and progress.” He commended the World Bank for its partnership and the implementing teams for enhancing accountability, strategy, and delivery across all project units.
Project Coordinator Mrs. Mosunmola Owo-Odusi presented a detailed overview of OGSTEP’s impact, noting that farmers who were previously subsistence operators have now evolved into organised cooperative associations with CAC registrations, business plans, and improved market access. “We have witnessed a real shift from peasant farmers to structured, medium-scale agripreneurs able to compete and thrive,” she said. She added that private-sector linkages and post-harvest processing centres have strengthened value chains across the state.
Mrs. Owo-odusi highlighted mechanisation, which increased cultivated land, reduced labour intensity, and enabled farmers to scale operations. Saying that improvements in land administration, including modern survey equipment, GIS structures, and a state-wide CORS network have unlocked land value and enhanced accuracy in surveying, urban planning and development control. “These advances have reshaped Ogun State’s geospatial landscape in ways that will serve generations,” she said.
In skills development, the Project Coordinator noted that technical education and TVET systems have been strengthened through teacher training, rehabilitated institutions, and modernised learning facilities. Ogun State’s results-based training model, she added, “…has now been adopted at the federal level,” validating the state’s leadership in human capital development.
She urged ministries, agencies, and regulators to safeguard the gains, stressing that sustainability depends on maintaining and expanding the systems established.
Mrs. Owo-Odusi also expressed appreciation to Governor Abiodun for his leadership, the Steering and Technical Committees for guidance, MDAs for collaboration, and the World Bank Task Team for its technical support. She commended beneficiary communities (farmers, youth, and women) whose participation made these transformations possible and praised the Project Implementation Unit for its dedication.
In attendance were members of the Project Steering Committee and the Project Technical Committee, including the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owotomo, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Moriamo Oloko, her counterpart at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development as well directors from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, highlighting broad institutional support for OGSTEP.
With the mission underway, participants are expected to engage in sector reviews, field assessments, and sustainability planning sessions as OGSTEP prepares for its formal closeout.
society
Zamfara State Launches Landmark IDP Policy and Action Plan as UNDP, Northwest Forum Pledge Support
Zamfara State Launches Landmark IDP Policy and Action Plan as UNDP, Northwest Forum Pledge Support
In a significant move to address the humanitarian crisis wrought by banditry and internal displacement, the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, His Excellency Dr. Dauda Lawal, has officially launched a comprehensive policy framework and action plan aimed at delivering durable solutions for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the state.
The Governor attended the joint launch ceremony for the IDP Policy and the State Action Plan on Durable Solutions, an initiative simultaneously rolled out for both Katsina and Zamfara States in the nations capital Abuja today Feburary 16, 2026. The event marks a pivotal moment in the region’s approach to managing displacement, shifting from emergency response to long-term, sustainable recovery.
The ambitious programme is the product of a strategic collaboration between the Northwest Governors Forum and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). This partnership underscores a unified, regional acknowledgment that the challenges of displacement require coordinated, multi-state solutions that address root causes and build lasting resilience.
For Zamfara State, which has borne the brunt of years of insecurity, the new policy is being hailed not merely as a bureaucratic formality, but as a binding social contract with its most vulnerable citizens. It establishes a clear roadmap for restoring the dignity of displaced families, with a laser focus on rebuilding shattered communities and creating viable pathways for safe return, peaceful resettlement, and sustainable reintegration.
The framework goes beyond temporary relief, outlining concrete strategies to help displaced populations not just survive, but ultimately thrive in safety. It seeks to transform the lives of those who have lost their homes and livelihoods by ensuring they are active participants in the state’s recovery.
Speaking at the launch, Governor Lawal reaffirmed the administration’s unwavering commitment to translating the policy document into tangible, measurable impact on the ground. “Under my leadership, we remain committed to ensuring that this framework translates into measurable impact for our people.”
The launch signals a new chapter for Zamfara, one focused on healing and forward momentum. By anchoring the response in a durable solutions framework, the state government aims to build systemic resilience, strengthen the capacity of local institutions to manage future crises, and ultimately, shape a more secure, stable, and inclusive future for all residents of Zamfara State.
society
Bright Brain Community Initiative, TMRI Host International Women’s Conference on Gender-Based Violence
Bright Brain Community Initiative, TMRI Host International Women’s Conference on Gender-Based Violence
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE: Wisdom Benson Celebrates 44 Years of Entrepreneurial Triumph.
Wisdom Benson, the visionary CEO of Wisic Services, is celebrating a major milestone – his 44th birthday on 18th February! A seasoned entrepreneur, accomplished networker, and dedicated leader, Wisdom has spent over 20 years driving business growth, empowering individuals, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.
As the helm of Wisic Services, Wisdom has demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding his team with vision, resilience, and courage. His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to the power of consistency, integrity, and strategic thinking. Under his leadership, Wisic Services has become a beacon of innovation and excellence, making a lasting impact in the industry.
Wisdom’s commitment to mentoring young entrepreneurs and promoting businesses has inspired countless individuals. He has been a driving force behind the success of many startups and SMEs, providing them with the necessary tools and guidance to thrive.
“Every year is not just an addition of time, but an addition of wisdom, strength, and purpose. The journey continues,” Wisdom said ahead of his birthday. “I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, and I look forward to continuing to inspire and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
As we celebrate Wisdom Benson’s 44th birthday on 18th February, we honor a man whose story inspires determination, excellence, and forward thinking. His legacy is a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and passion.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Wisdom’s milestone birthday and acknowledge his contributions to the business community,” said a spokesperson for Wisic Services. “His vision, leadership, and commitment to excellence are an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to many more years of success and impact.”
Here’s to many more years of expanded territories, deeper impact, and greater accomplishments!
*About Wisdom Benson*
Wisdom Benson is a seasoned entrepreneur, accomplished networker, and the visionary CEO of Wisic Services. With over 20 years of experience, he has established himself as a leader in the business community, driving growth, empowering individuals, and shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Nigeria and beyond.
-
celebrity radar - gossips6 months agoWhy Babangida’s Hilltop Home Became Nigeria’s Political “Mecca”
-
society6 months agoPower is a Loan, Not a Possession: The Sacred Duty of Planting People
-
news6 months agoTHE APPOINTMENT OF WASIU AYINDE BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AS AN AMBASSADOR SOUNDS EMBARRASSING
-
Business6 months agoBatsumi Travel CEO Lisa Sebogodi Wins Prestigious Africa Travel 100 Women Award