The Vatican published has a photo and video of 𝐏𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐬 in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand.
Following the pope’s request, the pope’s body is placed inside a wooden casket instead of a bier, which was used for the funeral of the previous popes.
It was also Pope Francis’s wish to be placed in a simple wooden casket with a zinc lining instead of the traditional three layers of coffins made of cypress, lead, and oak.
The images were taken in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis’s residence at the Vatican where he died on Monday, aged 88.
Pope Francis has died at the age of 88, the Vatican has announced.
The pontiff, who was Bishop of Rome and head of the Catholic Church, became pope in 2013 after his predecessor Benedict XVI resigned.
His death was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a statement released by the Vatican. He said: “Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.
“At 7.35am this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church.
“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalised.
“With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite merciful love of the One and Triune God.”
Recent hospital visits
In recent years, his papacy had been marked by several hospital visits and concerns about his health.
On 14 February, the Pope was admitted to hospital for bronchitis treatment.
In the days that followed, the Vatican said he had been diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia and that he had blood transfusions after tests revealed he had low levels of platelets in his blood, which is associated with anaemia.
On 22 February, it said the Pope was in a critical condition after a “prolonged respiratory crisis” that required a high flow of oxygen, and the next day the Vatican said Francis was showing an “initial, mild” kidney failure.
In the following days, thousands of faithful gathered in St Peter’s Square to pray for his recovery, as others went to the Rome hospital where he was staying to leave flowers and cards.
He remained in hospital for the rest of the month, with doctors saying that his condition remained “complex”.
On 6 March, his voice was heard for the first time since being admitted to hospital in an audio message, in which he thanked well-wishers, before adding: “I am with you from here.”
On Sunday, he greeted crowds at the Easter Sunday Service.
His 38-day hospital stay ended on 23 March when he made his first public appearance in five weeks on a balcony at Gemelli where he smiled and gave a thumbs up to the crowds gathered outside.
He returned to the Vatican, making a surprise stop at his favourite basilica on the way home, before beginning two months of prescribed rest and recovery.
Doctors said Francis would have access to supplemental oxygen and 24-hour medical care as needed – adding that while the pneumonia infection had been successfully treated, the pontiff would continue to take oral medication for quite some time to treat the fungal infection in his lungs and continue his respiratory and physical physiotherapy.
My dear Management and Staff of OSRC Media Group, our valued customers, viewers and listeners in Ondo State and across Nigeria, as we commemorate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, I am reminded of the importance of leading with vision, purpose, and integrity. At OSRC Media Group, our vision is to provide quality content, innovative programming, and exceptional service to our audience. As I join you to celebrate this Easter season, I reflect on the profound significance of renewal and rebirth in our lives.
In this season of renewal, I express my deepest gratitude to our loyal viewers and listeners for their unwavering support and trust in OSRC Media Group. Your loyalty has been the bedrock of our success, and I am honored to have you as part of our OSRC family.
As we celebrate the triumph of life over death, we are reminded of the power of hope, resilience, and determination. May this Easter season bring you joy, peace, and happiness. May God bless you and your family.
As we continue to lead with vision, we remain committed to serving you with integrity and excellence. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best content, service, and experience.
Happy Easter from all of us at OSRC Media Group! May the joy and hope of this season stay with you throughout the year.
Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson Director General/Chief Executive OSRC Media Group
It is with great pleasure that I extend my warmest felicitations to the esteemed Honorable Kolawole Bamidele as he marks a significant milestone – his 50th birthday. This occasion not only commemorates a life well-lived but also celebrates a legacy of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of others.
Throughout his distinguished career, Honorable Bamidele has exemplified the qualities of a true servant-leader, demonstrating an unrelenting passion for development and a steadfast dedication to good governance. His tireless efforts in empowering others have been a beacon of hope, inspiring countless individuals and fostering a sense of community and progress.
As we reflect on his remarkable journey, we are reminded of the wisdom, resilience, and divine grace that have guided him thus far. His contributions to the growth and well-being of our great state and nation have been profound, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of many.
On this joyous occasion, we express our deepest gratitude to the Almighty for blessing us with his life and leadership. We pray that the years ahead will be filled with peace, fulfillment, and continued strength, enabling him to maintain his exemplary service to others.
Congratulations, Honorable Bamidele, on your 50th birthday. May your light continue to shine brightly, illuminating the path for others and inspiring generations to come.
Warmest regards,
Kenneth Odusole-Stevenson Director General/Chief Executive, OSRC Media Group
It is with great pleasure that I extend heartfelt congratulations to Prince Leke Adegbite on his re-election as Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Ondo State Council, for another three-year term. This achievement is a testament to his exceptional leadership skills, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion for the journalistic profession.
Under Prince Adegbite’s astute leadership, the Ondo State Council of the NUJ has continued to thrive, promoting professionalism, unity, and the welfare of its members. His vision for a more robust and responsive union has earned him the trust and confidence of his peers, and his re-election is a fitting recognition of his outstanding service.
Prince Adegbite’s leadership has been marked by a profound commitment to professionalism, demonstrated through his dedication to the journalistic profession, a strong focus on unity and welfare of NUJ members in Ondo State, and a remarkable ability to strengthen ties with the government to promote good governance and responsible journalism.
As noted by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the smooth transition that produced Prince Adegbite for a second term in office is a demonstration of the union’s commitment to professionalism and internal democracy. The Governor’s goodwill message is a testament to the cordial relationship between the government and the media, which Prince Adegbite has worked tirelessly to foster.
As Prince Adegbite embarks on this new term, I wish him continued success, guidance, and support. His leadership will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower journalists in Ondo State, contributing to the growth and development of the media landscape.
E-Signed,
Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson DG/Chief Executive, OSRC Media Group
We commemorate a remarkable milestone in the life of Barr. Banji Okunomo, a stalwart leader and champion of progress, as he celebrates his 50th birthday. This joyous occasion marks not only a celebration of his life but also a testament to his unwavering dedication, outstanding service, and profound impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Throughout his distinguished career, Barr. Okunomo has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to the development of our state. His tireless efforts in public service, community development, and legal advocacy have left an indelible mark on our collective journey, inspiring a generation of leaders and citizens alike. As a beacon of hope and voice of reason, Barr. Okunomo has been a strong pillar in the progress we continue to witness.
Barr. Okunomo’s achievements are a testament to his exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to progress. He has inspired countless individuals through his work, leaving a lasting impact on the state’s development, particularly in his roles as APC chieftain and Spokesman of the Aiyedatiwa/Adelami Campaign Council in the last Gubernatorial election
As Barr. Okunomo embarks on this new chapter in his life, we wish him continued grace, good health, and boundless opportunities to inspire others. May he be surrounded by love, peace, and fulfillment, and may his years ahead be filled with purpose, joy, and satisfaction.
We celebrate Barr. Okunomo, honoring his remarkable life, leadership, and legacy. Congratulations on your 50th birthday, sir. May this milestone mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life.
Warmest regards,
Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson Director General/Chief Executive, OSRC Media Group
Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and fellow stakeholders,
Today, I am honored to address this gathering to commemorate a significant milestone in my tenure as Director-General/CE of OSRC Media Group – 100 days in office. I am proud to reflect on the remarkable achievements we have accomplished together, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this esteemed organization.
Transformational Leadership As your Director-General, I have strived to create a culture of openness, transparency, and collaboration. My leadership style is characterized by a willingness to listen, and I am proud to say that it has earned me the respect and admiration of our team. This approach has fostered a culture of creativity, innovation, and excellence, and I am excited to see the impact it will have on our organization in the years to come.
Key Achievements
Staff Welfare Revolution: We have made a commitment to staff welfare, recognizing and respecting our staff, implementing welfare packages, and showing special care for contract staff.
Infrastructure Renaissance: We have successfully reconnected to the national grid and procured the first solid-state transmitter for Sunshine 96.5FM ‘Alalaye’ Radio, among other infrastructure upgrades.
Content Innovation: We have introduced innovative programmes on both TV and Radio arms, enhancing contents and providing more value to viewers and listeners.
Expansion and Growth: We have commenced the process to have OSRC on DSTV/GOTV platforms to expand our reach and solidify our position as a leading media organization.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: We have installed industry-cutting-edge lightning arrester and industry-standard earthling system to ensure the protection of our equipment against natural occurrences.
Studio Revitalization: We are ongoing work to further recalibrate the big television studio after reactivating it to a functional status, including studio face-lifts.
Fleet Revitalization: We have repaired vehicles that have been abandoned over the years to boost operational efficiency.
Research and Planning: We have repositioned the Research, Planning, and Statistics department to improve our performance assessment and feedback.
Full Transmission Commencement: We have commenced full transmission of the three stations (Sunshine 96.5FM ‘Alalaye’ OSRC TV, and Orange 94.5FM) from 5:00 am to midnight daily.
Special Acknowledgements I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our esteemed Governor, His Excellency Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for his unwavering support and commitment to the growth and development of OSRC Media Group. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping our organization and positioning us for success. We are grateful for his trust and confidence in our team.
To my Technical Adviser, Hon. Collins Olagundoye, I extend my sincerest appreciation for his invaluable guidance and expertise. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping our strategic direction and driving our success. I am grateful for his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to excellence.
To our management team, I express my gratitude for their leadership and dedication. Your collective efforts have been pivotal in driving our achievements and positioning OSRC Media Group for continued success.
I also wish to acknowledge the outstanding work of our Director of Engineering and Technical Services, Engr. Femi Ayekomilogbon. His technical expertise and innovative approach have been essential in driving our infrastructure upgrades and ensuring the smooth operation of our broadcasting services.
Challenges and Opportunities While we have made significant strides, we acknowledge that challenges lie ahead. However, I am confident that our team is equipped to tackle them head-on. With the support of our Governor, we are poised to overcome these challenges and continue to thrive.
Conclusion In conclusion, I would like to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for your support and contributions to our success. I am proud to lead this team, and I look forward to many more years of success and growth.
Thank you.
Presented by:
Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson Director-General/CE, OSRC Media Group.
In a heartwarming display of intersectoral collaboration, the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (ODCHC) has gifted medical equipment and consumables to the Ondo State Radiovision Corporation (OSRC), further solidifying the symbiotic relationship between the two entities. This generous donation, presented at the OSRC premises in Akure, underscores the Commission’s appreciation for the Corporation’s impactful content and commitment to the well-being of its staff.
Prof. Simidele Michael Odimayo, Special Adviser to the Ondo State Governor on Health, lauded OSRC’s Director General, Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson, for the transformative strides made under his leadership. The ODCHC’s Director General echoed this sentiment, highlighting the Commission’s recognition of OSRC’s valuable contributions to the state’s media landscape.
The donation is a testament to the Commission’s broader mission to ensure accessible healthcare for all residents in Ondo State, as outlined in their Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS). By enhancing OSRC’s healthcare capabilities, the partnership between ODCHC and OSRC exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts in promoting public health and welfare, while demonstrating a commitment to staff welfare and fostering a culture of care and support within the organization.
Mr. Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Odimayo and the ODCHC management for their kindness, assuring that the medical items will be utilized judiciously to benefit OSRC staff.
E-Signed,
Adeleke Collins Olagundoye Technical Adviser to the Director General/Chief Executive, OSRC Media Group
The Ondo State Radiovision Corporation (OSRC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its service delivery with the commencement of the reconstruction of its Marketing Department building, which was razed down by a devastating fire five years ago. Under the visionary leadership of Director General Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson, the media group has experienced a transformative shift, marked by a renewed focus on staff welfare, healthcare, expanded programming, and stable electricity supply, all aimed at improving productivity and driving growth.
The Marketing Department, aptly described as the heartbeat of any media organization, is being revitalized to boost revenue generation and propel the corporation’s growth trajectory. At the foundation laying ceremony, Director General Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson, DG/Chief Executive of OSRC, emphasized the importance of revitalizing the Marketing Department, which he described as the engine room of the corporation. He thanked the sponsors for their support and reaffirmed the corporation’s commitment to excellence.
According to Engr. Anthony Arifalo, Director of Building and Facility Maintenance, the new building will feature modern facilities, including twelve office spaces, and is expected to be completed within two months, thanks to his team’s expertise and dedication, which will guarantee the successful completion of the project, meeting the highest standards of quality and professionalism.
Director of Marketing and Sales, Mrs. Yinka Badeniyi, has thanked the management for the initiative, pledging renewed efforts to boost revenue generation and drive the corporation’s growth. Her commitment to excellence is expected to yield positive results for the corporation.
This initiative is a testament to the corporation’s unwavering commitment to investing in its infrastructure and staff, and is being sponsored by friends and loved ones who believe in the growth and development of the corporation. This development marks a new chapter in OSRC’s journey, and is expected to have a profoundly positive impact on the corporation’s productivity, revenue generation, and overall growth.
E-Signed,
Adeleke Collins Olagundoye Technical Adviser to the DG/Chief Executive, OSRC Media Group
The Governor of Ondo State, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the dissolution of the management board of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA).
With this dissolution, the Executive Chairman of the Board, Mr. Dele Ologun, and other members have been relieved of their duties with immediate effect and directed to hand over all government properties in their care to the accounting officer of the agency.
Meanwhile, the Governor has approved a caretaker committee to manage the affairs of Sunshine Stars Football Club, under the leadership of Mr. Tokunbo Akinyelure as Team Manager and Welfare Officer.
Other members of the caretaker team are:
Morris Kwaghzever – Special Duties
Abdul Wahab – Kits Manager
Elias Michael – Masseur
Adetula Olumide – Physiotherapist
Ayodeji Abe – Camp Commandant
Ademola Ayodeji – Asst Kits Manager 1
Oria Sola – Asst Kits Manager 2
Imisi Ayodele – Curator
Isaac Afolabi – Media Officer
The caretaker committee is to report directly to the Office of the State Governor.
Governor Aiyedatiwa charged members of the caretaker team to work towards turning around the fortunes of the Sunshine Stars Football Club.
