society
World Teachers Day: Abiodun rewards teachers with cash, house in Ogun
World Teachers Day: Abiodun rewards teachers with cash, house in Ogun
…orders immediate release of appointment letters to 5000 new teachers
…allocates secretariats land to ANCOPSS, AOPSHON
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has rewarded best teachers in the state with cash prizes ranging from 1million Naira to 2million Naira.
The governor equally gifted a semi-detached bungalow to the best overall teacher for year 2020 in the state.
He, however, disclosed that he had approved the immediate release of engagement letters to successful candidates of the Ogun Teach Programme to relieve the workload of teachers in the state, just as he also noted that he has approved the establishment of the Ogun State Education Intervention Fund (OGSEIF) to achieve improved funding for the educational sector of the state
Abiodun, who also announced the allocation of lands to the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) and Association of Primary School for their secretariats, Headteachers of Nigeria (AOPSHON) for the construction of their secretariats in the state, disclosed this at the event organised to celebrate the 2021 World Teachers Day, held at the Obas Complex, Abeokuta.
He said his administration will continue to recognise and reward excellence in the teaching profession,
He described teachers as “holders of lamp” who illuminate the society and commended teachers under the umbrella of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and the Academic Staff Union of Secondary School (ASUSS) for their role in shaping the future leaders.
“The benefit of education to a society is akin to what lamp does to a person groping in the dark. The holder of the lamp in this case is the teacher. And in the words of a Greek Philosopher, Plato (428 – 347 B.C.) No society develops beyond the capacity of its teachers”. The governor noted.
He said role of teachers in the provision of an efficient and effective educational system that not only prepares the products for the opportunities and challenges of the present day, but also equips them for a brighter future, can never be overemphasized.
Abiodun added that whatever educational system the state puts in place, it will go down to the teachers who actually interpret and manifest the vision at the classroom level, saying “therefore, the result of our educational system is simply a demonstration of the efficiency and effectiveness of our teachers”
The governor said the theme for the 2021 World Teachers’ Day, ‘Teachers at the Heart of Education Recovery’ is very apt and instructive, reiterating that his administration would continue to prioritise welfare of teachers.
“As we are all aware, one of the great challenges that confronts the society is to restore the status of the teacher to his traditional place as role model and worthy mentor for our children. It is our duty as government and people to focus on the future of the profession and prepare the young dedicated teachers for the 21st-century’s challenges of preparing our children for the challenges and opportunities in the knowledge society and make them globally competitive.
“We must continue to attract bright-minded young teachers to the teaching profession so that we will not miss the young creative minds in order to their becoming great educators.
“Today, it is our joy that the teaching profession has been given a lift in our dear state. Our teachers are professionals; and our administration has never hesitated to treat them as such. We have resuscitated holding of workshops, seminars and other training programmes for teaching and non-teaching staff of the state public schools, to enhance their efficiency and productivity. We have witnessed a significant feedback of the success of our approaches and programmes in the development of our Education Sector through the recent exploits of our young academic laureates. Ogun State contingent won 11 laurels for our dear State in different categories of awards in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH) also won for our dear State the best compliant Institution in Nigeria to the tune of N75 Million from Joint Admissios and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
“I must also mention that I was bestowed with awards as the best Education friendly Governor by All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPSS) in the South-West and Best Governor in Educational Sector by the National Parents Teachers Association. All these give me an assurance that our Administration must be doing something right, even as I acknowledge that we are yet to attain our desired position, but it is gratifying that we are making steady progress. This achievement is a further confirmation of the status of our dear State not only as Education capital of Nigeria, but, in fact, as the intellectual melting-pot in Nigeria. Education remains one of the biggest industries in Ogun State. Indeed, one of the proud legacies bequeathed to us by the founding fathers of our dear State. The best we can do is to ensure that we sustain this proud legacy. But in all this, the role of teachers remains critical.
“We will continue to do all that we can to ensure that our teachers have the ambience to perform their divine role towards the development of our dear State in particular, and humanity, in general. For over two years and four months now, the Education Sub-sector of the State has received serious attention by our Administration. Our approach is multi-dimensional to include infrastructural development; human capital development; provision of conducive environment, amongst others”. Abiodun pointed out.
Reeling out achievements of his administration in the past 28 months in the education sector, the governor said, “immediately we came on board, 28 months ago, we ordered the release of promotion letters to deserving primary and secondary school teachers due for promotion in 2016 and 2017; the process of supplying new furniture to all primary and secondary schools for the use of our learners to cushion the effects of acute shortage of furniture in our Schools is on-going; rehabilitation of over 956 classrooms in our primary and secondary Schools; we are upgrading 42 of our Secondary Schools to Flagship Schools for better performance and productivity; I have given approval for the commencement of Ogun Digitalized Multimedia Lesson Plan where the teachers would be equipped with the wherewithal resources for effective delivery.
“Working in collaboration with a non-profit organisation; we have integrated 100 Fellows into Teach for Nigeria Programme; we have successfully introduced the Pre-Shaded Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) objective answer sheet for the conduct of Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE); a 50% increase in feeding allowance for learners in Special Needs Schools; full sponsorship of public school students to all academic competitions; resuscitation and relocation of Ogun State Braille Book Production Centre which has been moribund for many years; annual distribution of wheel chairs to the Special Needs Learners; commencement of the renovation of all the five Special Needs Schools in the State including provision of modern toilet facilities; approval of scholarships for outstanding students in all our tertiary institutions; approval for the establishment of Ogun State Education Intervention Fund (OGSEIF) to achieve improved funding; reinstatement / Appointment of Headmaster/ Principal General.
“We have done all these and many more in the firm belief that teachers are the true pillars of a successful Nation. These and many other actions of our Administration show, in practical terms, our commitment to education. I therefore enjoin our teachers to continue to be committed, innovative and painstaking in the discharge of their duties”.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
Business7 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion