The World Bank has promised to assist the Ogun State Government in the areas of good governance and socio-economic development. This was made known in Abuja during a meeting between Prince Dapo Abiodun and the country representatives of the global Bank.
Going by the number of floods that have ravaged some parts of Abeokuta, Ijebu Ode and other towns across Ogun West, the state government also received some succour from the World Bank. This development was made known through a press statement issued by Kunle Somorin, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun.
According to Somorin, the World Bank Country Director, Rachid Benmessaoud said the global financial institution thought it wise to assist a number of people affected by the recent flooding in the state, as enunciated by the Governor, having requested for the bank’s assistance.
While granting the Governor’s request, the World Bank announced that Ogun State has been considered among other states in Nigeria that will benefit from a $900m intervention fund on ecological challenges.
The World Bank’s assistance will serve as a timely succour to the affected families and towns across the Gateway State.
Also, the bank is currently partnering with Ogun State on a number of initiatives like the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) which is aimed at providing an institutional and logistic framework for a private-public partnership engagement and in the areas of rural road construction and agricultural development.
Some of the programmes which the World Bank had keyed into include: Community and Social Development Programme; Saving One Million Lives Programme: Basic Healthcare Provision Fund; State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability Programme. Others include the Rural Access and Mobility Programme, Nigeria for Women and the PPP.
According to Governor Abiodun, these are critical projects that would enhance the welfare of our people and also contribute immensely to his “focussed and qualitative governance” agenda in Ogun State.
The governor emphasised that he had outlined a number of bills to be sent to the State Assembly for approval as this would give necessary legal teeth to the proposed programmes, thereby bringing the dividends of democracy to the good people of the state. Some of these proposed laws are on the Ogun State Investment Promotion Agency, the PPP to attract and secure private investments into Ogun State.
“Since infrastructural development will strengthen the investment drive of our administration, we are equally setting up a Public Works Agency to boost local capacity and also make Ogun State Security Trust Fund more vibrant since investment cannot thrive without peace and security,” Governor Abiodun said.
The Governor promised to restructure the accounting processes in the state and ensure that the unwieldy over 800 accounts he inherited are “streamlined into a reasonable one where principal officers can access a dashboard of incomes and expenditures.”
The state, he added, is reviewing its public procurement laws to ensure that transparency and accountability are maintained while ensuring fairness, equity and inclusiveness in the way government businesses are run.
The World Bank team, led by Benmessaoud, commended the foresight of the Dapo Abiodun administration, warning that it should look into the indices that made the state’s healthcare fall by 10.5% between 2015 and 2018.
“Surveys conducted in 2015 and 2018 saw Ogun State regressed by 10.5%, whereas Yobe State got $30m for its exemplary public health initiatives from the World Bank. Osun also did very well and was rewarded with $20m,” Benmessaoud revealed.
The World Bank advised that Ogun State should work towards ensuring “strong leadership and accountability” so as to reverse its dwindling fortunes in the health sector. It also noted the fact that the Ministry of Health and the Primary Healthcare Development Agency should be reinvigorated and “it is expedient to have a State Social Health Insurance Agency.”
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.
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.
Sholagbade’s hobbies include traveling, business, football, filmmaking, and meeting new people, reflecting his dynamic and outgoing personality.
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.
With his achievements and versatility, Mustapha Ololade Sholagbade remains a notable force in the Nigerian film industry and a proud ambassador of Yoruba cinema worldwide.
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.”
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