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OGUN 10 LANE BROUHAHA: IMPUNITY OF THE HIGHEST ORDER By Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji

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I have observed with keen interest comments, reservations and media review of the proposed 10-lane road expansion and flyover bridge of Isale-Igbein-NNPC-Siun-interchange Expressway and I can conclude that, it is nothing but “MALADJUSTED”.

It beats my imagination His Excellency would think that among several socio-economic challenges confronting the good people of Ogun State, the next dividend of democracy is the ‘evil’ construction of that road, in spite of several abandoned projects embarked upon by this same character.

Permit me to toy with your sense of humor, in 2010 when the late popular Yoruba hip-hop rapper, Dapo Olaitan popularly known as DA GRIN said in one of his music tracks that “Se democracy le leyin abi cracy-demo… …” literally means “Is this democracy or Cracy-demo?” Many of us laughed it off then believing it was the usual meaningless lyrics by the music exponents, but today, the reality is dawning on us.

Or how do we explain the misery behind the construction of this project. In an ideal and civil democracy, before a project can be executed, it must pass through the State House of Assembly for deliberation and approval of the honourable members of the hallowed chamber.

The implication is that, each Assembly member is expected to take such proposed project to his constituency for deliberation if it is in tandem with the needs of the people.The feedback of the town hall meeting would determine the support and speedy approval of such proposal in the floor of the house.

In fact, before presenting the proposed project, the Governor and his executive members must have also done lots of consultations, town hall meetings, media assessment /awareness before proceeding to the Assembly complex for approval of such capital project.

Even, if the Assembly is reluctant to give approval, it is the citizens that will lead street protest against the honourable members,  because the people have been briefed and it is in the interest of the generality that such project is needed, most especially, when the State is embarking on such project with bank loans.

The roads in question are federal government roads, whilst the State government roads half-done or what is now termed as abandoned projects are being neglected.

Annoyingly, most of these abandoned roads have been awarded since 2012 with full payment withdrawn from the state treasury and till date no tangible reason has been adduced to the neglect of these abandoned projects, yet,  the same government is embarking on another, which would suffer the same fate, despite its present good condition.

One however begins to wonder if such project is so imperative or meant conserve as cesspit for diversion of state fund.

If Governor Amosun is actually sincere about wooing investors to the state with roads, let him embark on the completion of the highlighted roads below before demolishing people’s hard-earned property.
Though not strange to you, some of these roads include:

1)The Sango- Sona/Owode-ijako axis road
2)The Agbara/Lusada- igbesa Atan Ota road is there,
3) The Lafenfawa-Raunda- Ayetoro road,
4) The Oke-Ata to Rounda another one,
5)The Alagbole- Akute,isashi – yakoyo- Ojodu Abiodun abandoned & unattended to,
6) The ilaro-Iwoye-Owode bad road,
7) The ijoko-Ota to Agbado crossing,and Oke Aro road portion,
8) The Lusada/ADO-ODO/ Owode- YEWA road
9) TheAgo-Oko/Adedotun Saje to Adatan axis,
10) The Ogtv-Ajebo road,
11) The Itele to Ayobo ipaja Road,
12) Lafenwa- Itele Ota road axis.
13) Epe Garage-Oke Owa-Ilese-Ijebu-Imushin-Ijebu-Ife rod.
14) Imowo Eleran road, Ijebu-Ode.
15) Ikenne-Odogbolu-Ayepe road.
16) Ilishan-Ago-Iwoye road.
17) Isara-Ago-Iwoye road.
18) Ijebu-Igbo-Aparaki (the Deputy Governor’s home town) road.
19) Atan-Imope-Orita Idofe-Ijebu road.
20) Refuge-Oru-Awa-Ilaporu-Ijebu road.
21) Station-Idode-Japara, Ijebu-Igbo road.
22) Atikori-Idi Scale-Odobotu-Oke-Agbo, Ijebu-Igbo road.
23) Secretariat-West-End-Beje High Schl, Oke-Agbo road.
24) Agunboye-Omu-Gbawojo-Imewuro road.
25) Senbora-Ibido-Oke-Aye-Idorunwo-Gbawojo-Egan road.
26) Idode-Imomo-Simadegun road.
27) Oke-Eki-Orunwa-Ijebu road.
28) Ibiade-Abigi township road.
29) Oni-Ilushin-Ijebu township road.
30) Ologbun-Iwopin township road
31) Molipa-Okun-Owa road.
32) Ala-Omu-Ijebu road
33) Magboro-Makogi (back of MFM)-Obafemi Owode road
35) Sagamu-Ikorodu road and many others.

Obantoko – Osiele-Ibadan road is another federal government road which is the busiest road in Abeokuta and Ita-Oshin-Ifo-Sango-Otta is another federal government roads begging for rehabilitation.

With the above abandoned State road projects and untouched potholes-filed federal roads, do we say the governor has taken a right step in the right direction?

judging by the explanation of the state Commissioner for Works, Lekan Adegbite, on Family 88.5FM yesterday, I concluded that the government has lost focus.

The Commissioner who was unable to supply valid reasons for the expansion stressed that,  the government is embarking on the project despite the State Assembly call to stop work and calls by notable citizens of the state on the needless of the project, because it was the intention of the present government since 2014, but due to unavailability of funds, the government could not embark on it then.

Now that fund is available, I want to implore Mr.  Governor to divert such fund on his abandoned legacies.

Before you tag me as anti-Amosun or media bigot, briefly take a trip to the nine local governments in Ijebu,  and enjoy the road adventure to Yewa/Awori zones of the state,  not minding the suffering of the residents of Akute-Ajuwon-Alagbole-railway crossing under Ifo local government.

The flooded picture you are seeing below is not Haiti, but that is the sorry state Mr. Governor puts the residents into as a result of his abandoned trademark,  yet,  work is ongoing 24/7 at his under ground palatial bullet proof residence under construction at Ibara GRA, in Abeokuta. Mr.  Governor should remember Karma!

In a normal democratic setting where the House of Assembly is functional, such action of Mr. governor should be term as “MISFIT” and a vote of no confidence is passed.

But since the Assembly members are asleep or decided to be Mr.  Governor’s rubber stamp, as a law-abiding citizen, I will continue to speak for the voiceless.

As the 2019 political activities draw nearer, it is pertinent to henceforth request for a psychological test for whom to be governor of our dear gateway state to avoid another calamity.

While I await your comment/s as usual, I wish you a prosperous year ahead.

Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji
Social Critic and Political commentator,
Executive Member,
Office of the Citizen,
Ogun State.

 

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NIHOTOUR Calls on Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Allied Sector Professionals for Mandated Registration

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NIHOTOUR Calls on Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Allied Sector Professionals for Mandated Registration

NIHOTOUR Calls on Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Allied Sector Professionals for Mandated Registration

 

The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), the regulatory and standardization authority in the sector, has invited professionals in the hospitality, tourism,travel and allied sectors to register as mandated by the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (Establishment) Act 2022.

A statement signed by Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade, FIMC, Director-General/CEO
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism reads:

“Enjoy FREE registration from December 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025! This is your chance to register as a professional or practitioner at no cost.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to solidify your presence in Nigeria’s thriving tourism industry. Visit www.nihotour.gov.ng now!

“Hurry—free registration closes on January 15, 2025. Take the first step toward advancing your career in tourism today!”

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EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

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EGC Homes Unveils Goodness and Mercy Estate, Brand Ambassador

 

EGC Homes, a notable player in the real estate and property development sector, has made waves in the Nigerian market with its recent announcement of the launch of Goodness and Mercy Estate in Ogun, alongside other strategic initiatives.

The company emphasized its commitment to collaborating with the government to alleviate the housing deficit in Nigeria while prioritizing the well-being of residents.

In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, Oladapo Jimoh, the Managing Director of EGC Homes and Properties, expressed the brand’s long-term vision to bridge the housing gap and simplify the journey to homeownership.

He stated, “Current data estimates Nigeria’s housing deficit to be around 28 million units by 2024. This figure is among the largest globally and poses significant challenges, contributing to homelessness and various social issues.”

“National statistics indicate that our country faces a pressing need for approximately 700,000 new homes each year to address this deficit. As urbanization continues, these challenges are particularly evident in major cities, where affordable housing becomes increasingly scarce, forcing many into slums and informal settlements.”

The World Bank projects that Nigeria’s urban population could exceed 200 million by 2050, highlighting a potential social crisis as the lack of affordable housing leads to the rise of slums, especially in urban areas.

“As a forward-thinking and solutions-oriented company, we are dedicated to addressing these critical housing issues in partnership with the government.”

Following its successful launch in Lagos, EGC Homes has rapidly expanded its operations, acquiring a significant land bank across the southwestern region of Nigeria and enhancing its marketing strategies to effectively connect with customers.

The firm is committed to providing Nigerians with exceptional value, peace of mind, and simplifying the processes of land acquisition and homeownership.

“Our mission is to make life easier for Nigerians while assisting the government in tackling the housing deficit.”

Recently, the company introduced its premier property, the Goodness and Mercy Estate, located in Arepo and Sagamu Interchange in Ogun State, with more projects on the horizon. Its flexible payment plans and affordable property prices aim to cater to a wide audience.

Additionally, EGC Homes has appointed Titilayo Adebayo-Omotosho as its social media brand ambassador to promote the unique offerings of EGC Homes and Properties Limited to Nigerians both at home and abroad.

In her remarks, she highlighted her commitment to the vision of EGC Homes, stating, “I believe every Nigerian deserves a decent roof over their head. This aligns perfectly with the mission of EGC Homes and Properties, which is why I chose to represent the brand, promoting its exceptional estates and home packages to Nigerians and those aspiring to own homes here.”

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Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

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L-R Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners and Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC during the partnership agreement signing between Optiva Capital partners and Loft & keys LLC at Optiva's headquarters in Lagos

Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys LCC Forge Strategic Partnership to Drive $500m Investments in Nigeria

 

Optiva Capital Partners, Africa’s leading wealth management and retention company, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Loft & Keys LLC, a renowned real estate and investment company with dominant presence in Nigeria and the Middle East.

 

The ceremony which took place over the weekend at Optiva Capital’s Corporate Headquarters, aims to boost investment in Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare sectors on the one hand, as well as provide Nigerian investors with opportunities to invest in real estate in the UAE, particularly in Dubai.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners, emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, “With Loft & Keys’ deep understanding of the Nigerian market and established networks in the Middle East, we are poised to bring $500 million in investments into Nigeria’s hospitality and healthcare industries. These funds will be strategically spread across Lagos, Abuja (FCT), Delta, and Enugu.”

 

The investment in hospitality will serve as a catalyst for economic growth in Nigeria. Beyond creating employment opportunities, it will spur infrastructure development, enhance regional tourism appeal, and foster business ecosystems in Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, Enugu, and Delta. Similarly, the healthcare focus will address critical gaps in medical infrastructure, improve access to quality care, and promote health innovation—key pillars for national development.

 

The partnership According to Dr Kimemia also extends to Nigerian investors seeking opportunities in the UAE. With Loft & Keys’ expertise and extensive networks in Dubai and other Middle Eastern hubs, the collaboration will unlock access to one of the world’s most dynamic real estate markets.
Speaking about the partnership, Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC, said “Optiva Capital Partners stands as Africa’s leading wealth retention company, a position that is firmly established and without question. This partnership with Loft & Keys will further solidify their dominance and create even greater opportunities for growth. As Dr. Jane Kimemia has rightly emphasized, Loft & Keys, with our extensive expertise in the Middle East, is a trusted and experienced partner”. We have a strong presence in the UAE and are actively expanding into Saudi Arabia and Qatar in the near future. Together with Optiva Capital Partners, we are committed to capturing significant market opportunities in these regions. I am confident that this partnership will foster substantial growth that will be mutually rewarding for both parties.

 

Dubai, a city widely known for its opulence and rapid development, is reportedly operating at only 30% of its projected capacity, presenting a significant growth opportunity for investors. According to industry experts, this untapped potential creates a unique window for investors to capitalize on the city’s future expansion and development.
The partnership aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 as two formidable brands, Optiva Capital Partners and Loft & Keys are committed to leveraging their collective strengths to drive impactful investments that benefit clients and communities alike.

 

L-R Dr. Jane Kimemia, CEO, Optiva Capital Partners and Chief Austin Ugochukwu Albert, Chairman, Loft & Keys LLC during the partnership agreement signing between Optiva Capital partners and Loft & keys LLC at Optiva's headquarters in Lagos
About Optiva Capital Partners
Optiva Capital Partners is a premier wealth management and retention firm offering bespoke solutions in four areas of specialization – investment immigration, investment advisory, insurance, and international real estate.
About Loft & Keys LLC
Loft & Keys is an internationally recognized real estate and investment company with a robust presence in Nigeria and the UAE. The firm is dedicated to connecting investors with high-value opportunities in dynamic markets.

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