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OGUN : TOWARDS SOLVING UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH INTERVENTION PROGRAMMES

Published

4 years ago

August 22, 2022

Sahara Weekly

OGUN : TOWARDS SOLVING UNEMPLOYMENT THROUGH INTERVENTION PROGRAMMES

By: Elijah Udofia

Governments, just like an individual or organizations, are faced with one challenge or the other and the methods of dealing with such challenges differs. Unemployment is one of the many challenges confronting even the most advanced economy of the world . In other words, unemployment is a phenomenon that affect all countries including the first world or advanced economies. No wonder Jane Addams, a Social Worker and a Reformer, said “of all aspects of social misery nothing is so heart breaking as unemployment”.

Nigeria, just like other third world countries has been battling with the problem of unemployment , especially since the post independence era, more than six decades ago. It is worthy of note that successive administrations both at the Federal and State levels have come up with various schemes aimed at finding solution to the problem.

During the military era of the the then General Ibrahim Babangida, the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) was introduced in 1986 and the agency was saddled with the responsibility of designing and expanding the opportunities and rights of Nigerians in all the states of the federation. It was meant to promote job creation, stimulate entrepreneurship and the skills of representatives of various industries. In a nutshell, NDE was established to solve Nigeria’s unemployment challenge.

Under democratic dispensation, President Good luck Jonathan came up with his own Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Programme SURE-P. Under this Programme was the Community Services Women and Youth Employment (CSWYE). The scheme was set up to provide temporary employment opportunities to the unemployed and unskilled women and youth.

President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016, also set up the N-Power under the National Social Intervention Programme. The scheme with the theme “Empowering the Youths for Prosperity” is to tackle the issue of joblessness among youth as well as improve social development of young people in Nigeria.

Nigeria no doubt is one of the fastest growing economy in Africa or what is known as ” lion economy”. But unlike countries like Qatar, Cambodia or our neighbour Niger, with low unemployment rate, that of Nigeria, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) report, “Nigeria’s unemployment rate rised from 27.1 percent in the second quarter of 2020 to 33 percent in 2022”. This is an indication that rather than reducing, the rate is assuming an alarming rate.

Being a component part of Nigeria, Ogun State also share from the many challenges confronting the country including unemployment. Apart from being the Industrial hub and the religious capital of the nation, the State, is the education capital of the country with the highest number of post primary and higher institutions in Nigeria. These institutions on regular basis, turn out graduates into the already saturated unemployment market. Given this consideration, the State has a large number of graduates who are not gainfully engaged .

As the General Secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation, Sharan Burrow, once said, “no country can afford to lose a generation to unemployment”, the Prince Dapo Abiodun led-government in Ogun State having realized that there is a relationship between unemployment and crime, made youth employment and empowerment one of its cardinal programmes as encapsulated in the ISEYA mantra viz: Infrastructure, Social welfare and wellbeing, Education, Youth Employment and Empowerment and Agriculture.

The Governor who is an ardent believer in the sayings that “an idle hand is the devil’s workshop ” came up with life transforming programmes that would translate into building a virile future not only for graduates but also for various job seekers in other spheres of human endeavor. At the inception of his administration, one of the steps taken was the opening of a job Portal where graduates and non graduates who are skilled in various trades register. The purpose of the programme, according to the Governor, was to ascertain the number of those who are jobless as well as those who are underemployed with a view to matching the qualified ones with the employers of labour as well as exposing them to the various investors besieging the State. With this approach, thousands of employment opportunities have been secured for teeming youths.

This aside, the State government also set up an Artisans Scheme, where people are trained in various skill acquisitions like tailoring, barbing, hair dressing, painting and paint making, among others. The interesting part of this scheme is that participants are paid stipends on monthly basis.

Similarly, the decision of the State government to convert one of the moribund model schools that dot the State’s landscape, to a TechHuB, was to make available a platform for Information Technology (IT) for the youths to showcase their talents .The hub also offer training opportunity to those who want to be well grounded on IT. The Centre has in the last few years trained hundreds of youths who are now employed in blue chip or multinational companies across the country.

The TechHuB, is one of the many plans government is putting in place to turn Ogun State to what the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ibrahim Pantami said would be “Nigeria’s Silicon Valley” in the near future.

Another area which Ogun State has explored in generating employment to its teeming able bodied men and women is the education sector. Barely a year ago, a scheme tagged “Ogunteach” was introduced and the method was to engage qualified interns for a period of two years as class teachers in public primary and secondary schools. At the end of their internship, those who excel are absorbed into the system. Though It was meant to fill the existing teaching gap in the public schools, it is also a platform for “young teachers” to be well groomed in the chalk profession.

On how his administration came about the scheme, governor Abiodun said “sometimes around September last year, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, came to me with this brilliant idea. I immediately keyed into it and told him that it must be devoid of favouritism and that only the best should be encouraged”.

As at now, the scheme as so far provided employment to 2000 of the interns while additional 1,000 to 1,500 would be employed, according to the Governor.

It is pertinent to State that the employment scheme is multi- dimensional and exists in other sectors . For instance, in the agricultural sector, apart from the Federal Government’s Anchor Borrower’s Programme, which the State government has successfully keyed into, another scheme for would-be graduate agric- prenuers, known as FADAMA GUYS was also birthed with a view to widen the scope of engagement thereby boost food production. All these schemes are also geared towards solving the problem of unemployment especially in the agriculture sector.

Perhaps, the man at the helms of affairs in Ogun State, in the course of putting ideas together on how to bring the rate of unemployment to the barest minimum, must have come across the words of the former German Chancellor Gehard Schroeder who said, “any degree of unemployment worries me”. This has led to the interventions that are currently being used to address unemployment in the State.

From available data, Ogun State is definitely not the State with the highest rate of unemployment despite the fact that it is the education capital of the nation. With unemployment rate in the country projected to trend around 53 percent in 2022 and 51percent in 2023, according to Trading Economic, the current interventions, there seems to be no end in sight, but what is sure is that the various interventions by Ogun State government would go a long way in reducing unemployment to the barest in the coming years.

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Why Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 1 Should Stand with Engr. Abayomi David Fasanya (FASH)

Published

19 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

Sahara Weekly

By Ayodele Adeyeye

In every electoral cycle, constituents are presented with a familiar challenge: choosing not just a candidate, but a leader who embodies the values, vision and commitment required to drive meaningful development. For the people of Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 1, this moment calls for careful reflection and a decisive choice—one that prioritizes credibility, competence and community connection.

Among those seeking to represent the constituency, Engr. Abayomi David Fasanya (popularly known as FASH) has emerged as a compelling option, distinguished by his track record, grassroots engagement and forward-looking vision

At a time when public trust in leadership is often tested, FASH represents a refreshing alternative. He is widely regarded as a man of integrity, whose approach to leadership is rooted in service rather than self-interest. His long-standing connection with the people of Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 1 gives him a clear understanding of the socio-economic realities facing residents—from youth unemployment and infrastructure deficits to the need for sustainable community development.

One of the defining attributes of FASH’s candidacy is his strong grassroots appeal. Unlike many who approach leadership from a distance, he has remained closely connected to the community, engaging with residents, listening to their concerns and participating in initiatives aimed at improving their welfare. This familiarity positions him not just as a representative, but as a true voice of the people.

Equally important is his emphasis on service-driven leadership. In a political climate often dominated by rhetoric, FASH’s message is centered on tangible impact. His agenda reflects a commitment to delivering practical solutions—policies and programs that directly address the needs of the constituency while creating opportunities for growth and empowerment.

Furthermore, FASH has consistently advocated for unity and collective progress. He recognizes that the development of Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 1 depends on collaboration across diverse groups and interests. By promoting inclusiveness, peace and shared purpose, he aims to foster an environment where progress is not only achievable but sustainable.

Central to his campaign is a clear and actionable vision for development. This includes prioritizing youth empowerment through skills acquisition and job creation, supporting small and medium-scale enterprises and advocating for improved infrastructure and social services. His professional background as an engineer further strengthens his capacity to approach development with structure, innovation and efficiency.

As the constituency prepares to make a critical decision about its future, the need for leadership that inspires confidence and delivers results cannot be overstated. Oshodi-Isolo Constituency 1 deserves a representative who will illuminate pathways to progress, restore hope in governance and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of the community.

Engr. Abayomi David Fasanya (FASH) presents himself as that candidate—one ready to serve with dedication, guided by a vision of light, growth and inclusive development.

The choice ultimately rests with the people. But in FASH, many see not just a contender, but a leader prepared to translate aspiration into action and promise into progress.

Asoludero fun ilu Oshodi.

Ayodele Adeyeye writes from, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Lagos State

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Court Strikes Out Case Against Adedipe Ewenla, Alleges Political Persecution

Published

1 hour ago

April 22, 2026

Sahara Weekly

A former aspirant for the Lagos State House of Representatives and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla, has announced that the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi has struck out a case instituted against him, citing lack of merit and absence of credible evidence.

Describing the judgment as a clear vindication, Ewenla attributed the outcome to divine intervention, maintaining that the allegations brought against him were false, malicious, and politically motivated.

Allegation of Unlawful Detention

In a statement made available to the public, Ewenla recounted his alleged unlawful detention for 37 days in 2019 during his political aspiration. He claimed the incident occurred under the tenure of the then Commissioner of Police and was orchestrated by political opponents seeking to frustrate his ambition.

He emphasized that participation in politics is a constitutional right of every Nigerian and expressed concern that his experience reflected a troubling reality for opposition members in Lagos State.

Declared Wanted Without Due Process

Ewenla further alleged that he was declared wanted without prior invitation or formal communication from security agencies. He maintained that he did not evade arrest but voluntarily presented himself at the OC SARS, Ikeja Police Command upon learning of the allegations.

According to him, due process was not followed, as he was detained for 37 days, while his wife was held for nine days, alongside several members of his campaign team who were also detained for varying periods.

Alleged Political Influence

He also alleged that during his detention, an Investigating Police Officer questioned his involvement in opposition politics, suggesting that his release was subject to directives “from above.” Ewenla described this as evidence of political interference in the matter.

He stated that his eventual arraignment and release on bail came only after sustained legal intervention and the invocation of his fundamental human rights.

Pipeline Vandalization Allegation

Addressing claims linking him to a pipeline vandalization incident in Abule-Egba in December 2018, Ewenla denied any involvement. He noted that statements from actual suspects reportedly absolved him, yet he was still declared wanted and publicly associated with the crime.

He added that he was never paraded alongside the suspects, which, according to him, further indicates an attempt to tarnish his reputation.

Claims of Political Intimidation

Ewenla alleged continued political intimidation following his refusal to defect to the ruling party. He claimed that after emerging victorious in a House of Representatives primary election in 2022, a previously dismissed case was revived amid internal party disputes.

He noted that the matter was eventually dismissed again, leading to his discharge and acquittal.

Call for Professionalism by Security Agencies

Ewenla called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Army, to remain neutral, professional, and free from political influence, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach.

He also urged media organizations and journalists to prioritize verification and accuracy in their reporting to prevent the spread of misinformation.

Commitment to Political Participation

Despite the challenges, Ewenla reaffirmed his commitment to active political participation, stating that he remains undeterred and will continue to contribute to democratic processes.

When asked about his plans for the 2027 general elections, he stated that his decision would be guided by the direction of the party leadership and relevant legal outcomes affecting the PDP.

Appreciation

He expressed gratitude to his legal team, associates, and supporters, including Barrister Ejide Lawal, Omolola Oyetoro, Adedipe Modupe Oyinlola, Omolola Salami, the late Babatunde Kode, Adedipe Nuren, Adekunle, and Shodiya Abraham Adebayo, among others, for their steadfast support.

Background

Hon. Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla is the MD/CEO of Adedas Development Foundation. He holds multiple academic and professional qualifications, including BSc, B-Tech, MSc, and certifications in surveying, real estate, and security studies. He currently serves as PDP Southwest Ex-Officio.

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CSO gives IGP 24-hour ultimatum to release Hammed Akanbi

Published

2 days ago

April 20, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Civil society Organisation has raised concern over a disturbing sequence of events that point to an alleged high-level conspiracy within the Nigeria Police Force led by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare (AIG Zone 2), targeted at Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi.

The CSO in a press conference addressed by its leader Com Kolawole Emmanuel , gave the Inspector General of Police a 24-hour ultimatum, demanding the immediate transfer of Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi to a neutral and independent investigative unit and unrestricted access to his legal representatives and family members.

It said: “Our findings reveal that this matter is not isolated but deeply rooted in the long-standing crisis within the Ojomu Royal Family of Ajiran in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State; a crisis that predates the tenure of Jimoh Moshood Olorundare as Commissioner of Police, Lagos State.

“At the core of this crisis is the control and allocation of vast ancestral lands spanning over 22 communities. This dispute has polarised the community into factions: those aligned with the Kabiesi and those loyal to Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi, who serves as Chairman of the Youth Wing of the Ojomu Royal Family.

“A troubling dimension emerged with the alleged ambition of Bashir Fakorede to ascend the Ojomu stool while the current monarch remains alive. Credible allegations indicate that Bashir Fakorede identified Mr. Akanbi as the principal obstacle to this ambition and openly declared his intention to “crush” him.

“It is further alleged that Bashir Fakorede enlisted the support of Muiz Banire (SAN), who purportedly assured him of leveraging institutional connections, including the office of the Attorney General of Lagos State, to ensure the prosecution and conviction of Mr. Akanbi.

“In furtherance of this alleged scheme, Bashir Fakorede reportedly conspired with Jimoh Moshood Olorundare who was then the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, now Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Zone 2.

“It is alleged that inducements, including four plots of land at Chevron Drive valued at about ₦1.2 billion, were offered to Jimoh Moshood to secure cooperation in orchestrating Mr. Akanbi’s arrest and eventual elimination.

“Subsequently, a previously investigated and resolved murder allegation was resurrected under questionable circumstances. Individuals were allegedly arrested at random and coerced into making incriminating statements falsely linking Mr. Akanbi to the death of one Sheriff Salami.

“Despite Mr. Akanbi being outside Nigeria on medical grounds, he was declared wanted on 19th February 2026 by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, a move widely regarded as procedurally defective. This declaration allegedly triggered sponsored acts of violence, including the destruction of his property in Ajiran.

“Legal proceedings initiated by Mr. Akanbi at the Ikeja High Court (Suit No: ID/21447MFHR/2026) challenged this action. Notably, an earlier arrest and remand order obtained through Charge No: Misc/60A/2026 was set aside by the same court due to misrepresentation and concealment of material facts.

“A subsequent application (Charge No: MISC/126/2026) was also refused, with the court directing proper procedure upon his return.

“Following a petition dated 23rd February 2026, the Inspector General of Police directed that the matter be transferred to the X-Squad, FCID, Alagbon. However, in a controversial turn of events, Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, now AIG Zone 2, allegedly insisted on retaining control over the matter.

“Following the clear directive of Court in charge no: MISC/126/2026 that proper procedure be followed by inviting Mr. Akanbi, he was enroute Nigeria from France through Benin Republic when he was eventually arrested in the Benin Republic but the Police on the claim that they have information that he was declared wanted by Jimoh Moshood.

“He was thereafter transferred to Nigeria on 17th April 2026. Since then, he has allegedly been subjected to degrading and inhumane treatment, including:

“Being publicly exposed in handcuffs by associates linked to Bashir Fakorede, particularly one Rukayat Omolara who is alleged to have over the internet with the photographs and video of Akanbi in hand and leg chain, a recording she made while he was in custody of Jimoh Moshood; denial of access to legal counsel and family; interrogation in the presence of individuals allegedly linked to the law firms of Muiz Banire (SAN) and Olumide Fusika (SAN), who are not law enforcement officers; personal supervision of his detention by Jimoh Moshood Olorundare, including signing detention orders and placing him in a private cell at SCID Panti; continuous use of hand and leg restraints while in custody.

“Most alarming are intelligence reports suggesting a deliberate plot to poison Mr. Akanbi with substances designed to cause delayed fatal consequences after release.

“These actions, if proven, constitute egregious violations of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and fundamental human rights protections.

“In light of the foregoing, we hereby issue a 24-HOUR ULTIMATUM to the Inspector General of Police demanding: the immediate transfer of Mr. Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi to a neutral and independent investigative unit; unrestricted access to his legal representatives, family members, and medical professionals; a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the roles of all officers and individuals implicated, particularly Jimoh Moshood Olorundare; full compliance with subsisting court rulings and strict adherence to due process.

“Failure to comply within 24 hours will compel us to escalate this matter through all lawful protest and institutional mechanisms, including judicial actions, petitions to oversight bodies, and coordinated civil advocacy at both national and international levels.

“This is a defining moment for the rule of law in Nigeria. We call on the Inspector General of Police to act decisively and restore public confidence in the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.”