Why President Tinubu honoured Awujale with GCON

May 10, 2024

“Because Oba Adetona has honoured our country and humanity with his many years of meritorious service, I therefore, on this special occasion of his 90th birthday ceremony, confer on him the second highest National Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON).

“To ensure that the knowledge production and intellectual output of the Post-Graduate school benefit the entire country, the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos will be asked to take over the running and management of Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies. This will be a fitting compliment to Kabiyesi’s educational legacy”.

Read the full speech
SPEECH BY PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AS READ BY VP KASHIM SHETTIMA ON THE OCCASION OF 90TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY OF HRM OBA SIKIRU KAYODE ADETONA, THE AWUJALE OF IJEBULAND ON MAY 10, 2024

Protocols

We are here today to celebrate and rejoice with an outstanding and extraordinary monarch on the occasion of his 90th birthday anniversary.

It also gladdens my heart to see the Awujale in his full glory and majesty attain this important milestone.

I had planned to personally attend this epoch-making event as a mark of honour to our reverred royal father. I returned from my travel abroad to be part of this celebration. However, the exigencies and demands of state duty have both conspired to make it practically impossible to be here.

Earlier, I sent a personally-signed tribute to Kabiyesi Awujale, underscoring his transcendental and preeminent status as a royal father not just in our country, but also as one of the most adored around the world.

Kabiyesi Adetona deserves all the accolades we can accord him because he earned them.

In the last 64 years, Kabiyesi had served the people of Ijebuland with great wisdom and rare dedication. It is not surprising that his kingdom and people have continued to thrive.

While we rejoice with Oba Adetona today, it is important to state that what we are celebrating is much more than this 90th birthday anniversary.

In Oba Adetona, we are celebrating courage, dignity, honour and a life that is wholly committed to duty and service.

In time of adversity, Oba Adetona showed strength and kingly character. He stood his ground and confronted injustice and oppression during our just struggle for the restoration of democratic rule in the land between 1993 and 1999. If democracy is blossoming in our country today, it is because patriarchs like Oba Adetona stood firmly on the side of the people.

Motivated by higher and noble ideal to entrench democratic good governance in our country, Oba Adetona recognized the importance of expanding the frontier of knowledge with his endowment of a professorial chair at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye in Ogun State.

It is appropriate that as part of activities marking this birthday anniversary, we are also inaugurating the Post-Graduate School on Policy and Governance Studies funded by Kabiyesi.

Because Oba Adetona has honoured our country and humanity with his many years of meritorious service, I therefore, on this special occasion of his 90th birthday ceremony, confer on him the second highest National Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON).

To ensure that the knowledge production and intellectual output of the Post-Graduate school benefit the entire country, the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos will be asked to take over the running and management of Oba Sikiru Adetona School of Governance Studies. This will be a fitting compliment to Kabiyesi’s educational legacy.

I wish Kabiyesi Awujale more years of service to the people of Ijebuland and robust health on the throne.

Many happy returns Kabiyesi.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

NDLEA partners Ondo SWAN to tackle drug abuse among athletes, fans

May 10, 2024

The leadership of Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken a major step in its duty to rid the country of illicit drugs use, by partnering Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) in Ondo State to help drive its move against drug abuse particularly among athletes.

Ondo State Commander of NDLEA, Kayode Mumuni Raji, during a courtesy visit to the State Secretariat of SWAN in Akure on Friday, said drugs had cut short so many careers and lives of athletes momentarily or after the span of their chosen career.

Raji said he would be happy to form a synergy with SWAN, which would help sensitize sport men and women on the dangers of taking psychotropic substances that they believe would enhance their performance but destroy their lives.

The commander, who gave several examples of athletes/footballers that had their careers cut short due to drug related issues, said the move to partner SWAN would engender development of clean athletes.

He said the command would still visit sports administrators in the state with the message and how the agency could help in curbing the underlying menace of drug abuse in sports.

“We are here on a visit and the essence of coming is actually to initiate something transformative, something revolutionary. It might seem like a child’s play to some people. If we are able to succeed, it will be a model among all other states in the country.”

“Before now we use music generously as music and sports always meet. As time went by, we discovered that it is not only music and sport that meet, sports and drugs also meet and so, that is the very essence of our coming.”

“We have discovered in all our activities and researches, there is a very close link between sport and drugs and we discovered such relationship can be positive or negative, we want to have a positive relationship with sport.”

“You hold a very high stand in the fight against drugs even without you knowing, we know the power of the press, press has its own power and authority and your own did not stop there, you also have the power of sports because sports itself moves the world.”

“Anywhere in the world, whether football in this part of this world, some other part of the world basketball ball, netball, even in some other part of the world cricket. Whatever it is, you encompass all and we have discovered that there is a very serious relationship between drugs and sports,” he said.

Responding, the Chairman of SWAN in the State, Mr Segun Giwa, appreciated the leadership of NDLEA for thinking about how to save the careers and lives of athletes.

Giwa said the association was also thinking about organising an event on drug usage among sports women and women, assuring the commander that a programme would soon be organised towards the discussions had during the courtesy visit.

“We appreciate your visit. This came at a very important time when abuse of drugs is on the rise and we are also planning to have an event that will have athletes and footballers in the state and invite you to help educate and speak at the event.”

“We will still sit together and discuss when we can have the programme within the next few weeks,” he said.

Gov. Aiyedatiwa pays last respects, as late Gen. Jones Arogbofa is buried

May 10, 2024

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday, attended the funeral ceremony of the late General Jones Oladeinde Arogbofa (Rtd), describing him as a devoted patriot who dedicated himself to the nation’s progress in various capacities.

Speaking at the funeral service held at Owase, Oka Akoko in Akoko South West local government area of the State, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed condolences to the Arogbofa family, emphasizing the deceased’s significant contributions during his military service and tenure as Chief of Staff to former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

The Governor urged family and friends to celebrate the fulfilling life lived by Gen Arogbofa, acknowledging the void his passing leaves within the family, Oka community, Ondo State and the nation.

He said: “To the relatives, friends, and loved ones gathered here today, I want to let you know that this is a moment for celebration rather than mourning. We are here to honoir the rich and fulfilled life that our departed loved one lived. While his passing brings sorrow to our hearts, let us take solace in the comforting words that “blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted”. Though we have lost him, let us trust in the divine promise that God will provide solace and support to the immediate family in times of need.”

Following that, Governor Aiyedatiwa visited the Oka Akoko residence of Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, the elder brother of the deceased, where he offered his condolences.

The Governor promised to honour the vision of the state’s founding fathers, ensuring that his administration maintains its commitment to fostering an environment conducive to delivering effective governance for the people.

Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his visit, acknowledging it as a significant gesture. He commended the Governor for his ongoing efforts since assuming office, affirming the support of the Elders to aid his administration in its endeavours.

Earlier, former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by former Senate President, Sen Anyim Pius Anyim, acknowledged Gen Arogbofa’s exceptional service and urged the family to find solace in the memories and legacy he left behind.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami and other members of the entourage later paid a visit to the residence of a community leader, Rtd Colonel Roland Omowa, at Oka Akoko.

Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State
May 10, 2024

IFEDORE MONARCHS, CHIEF ADE OJO, OTHERS LAUD GOV AIYEDATIWA’S DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

May 9, 2024

Gov promises to run inclusive governance, address needs of communities

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said his administration will prioritize inclusive governance at all levels across the State to drive development.

The Governor disclosed this during a meeting with community leaders and elders from Ifedore and Akure North local government areas of the State, in Akure on Thursday.

Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized this commitment following expression of support for his administration by the community leaders, who commended his various initiatives aimed at driving development in the State since he became Governor.

The delegation, led by Rtd Major General Joshua Adebayo Omosebi, included traditional rulers and business mogul, Chief Ade Ojo.

The Governor acknowledged the pivotal roles of communities like Ifedore and Akure North local government areas and highlighted plans to consider the inclusiveness of all interests and communities in future government appointments.

He also spoke on ongoing initiatives such as the efforts on the Owena Dam water project, recruitment of medical and education personnel, and progress in road infrastructure, reaffirming proactive measures to address pressing needs.

Earlier in his address, Rtd Major Gen. Omoseebi, who led the delegation, congratulated the Governor for his victory in the primary election and pledged support for his election in November.

He expressed the elders’ satisfaction with the governor’s achievements within his brief time in office, urging him to ensure the spread of developmental projects to rural communities.

He highlighted the pressing needs of the three zones in Ifedore: Ijare, Ilara and Igbara-Oke communities, particularly in road infrastructure and healthcare, urging the Governor to address them urgently.

In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu, the Alara of Ilara Mokin, Oba Abiodun Adefehinti, the Ogbolu of Ita Ogbolu, Oba idowu Faborode and the Regent of Ijare, Joseph Omosebi.

Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
May 9, 2024.

Ondo Sports Commissioner assures of more partnership with SWAN, improved athletes welfare

May 9, 2024

Charges Sunshine Stars on victory against Rivers United on Sunday

Ondo State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye has assured members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ondo State chapter of more collaboration to reposition sports at all levels.

Yusuf-Ogunleye made the position known while playing host to the executive members of Ondo SWAN, led by the Chairman, Mr Segun Giwa to his office in Akure, Ondo State Capital.

The sports commissioner thanked SWAN members for their support and belief in the restructuring process to reposition the state-owned teams and athletes for better performance in competitions both at home and abroad.

He assured that the welfare of members of the sports fraternity will be looked into and also carry them along and be partners in progress.

He said, “I want to thank you for your support. I am in touch with your chairman regularly to see how we can promote the image of this office and to let people know what we are also going through.

“Change is difficult but we must take steps. Sunshine Stars is number 18 now, the question I ask is how did we get here and how do we get out? We are taking steps and I hope and pray we get it right at the end of the day.”

While expressing dissatisfaction with the state of welfare of athletes in Ondo state, he assured that adequate reward and recognition will be given to athletes who have made the state proud to serve as encouragement.

“We will not do anything without involving SWAN in the state. I want to assure you that we will look at the welfare of athletes. I have discussed this with the General Manager, Ondo State Sports Council. We must present these outstanding athletes to the Governor for recognition to encourage others.

” I am not going to be commissioner for ODSFA or commissioner for football alone. I am commissioner for all sports and will ensure we partner with you for inclusiveness.”

The sports commissioner said a committee will be set up involving both the FA and Ondo SWAN which will jointly constitute the associations assuring that competent hands will be recruited to get the right results.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman SWAN in Ondo State, Mr Segun Giwa, appreciated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for appointing Hon. Saka Yusuf Ogunleye as youths and sports commissioner describing it as a round peg in a right hole.

Giwa appreciated the efforts of the sports commissioner at repositioning the state-owned teams and implored him to look into the welfare of SWAN members calling for an upward review of monies allotted to boost the morale of members in subsequent matches.

The chairman implored the commissioner to ensure that more is done to encourage the athletes and prepare them ahead of the National sports festivals scheduled to hold in Ogun State.

” I want to appreciate Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for bringing you back to sanitize sports in Ondo State. I also want to appreciate your efforts at repositioning Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens for better performance and I am still calling for more to ensure that Sunshine Stars do not go on relegation”.

“I want to admonish the commissioner to please ensure that there are award recognitions for outstanding athletes to encourage others”.

In attendance: Vice Chairman Isaac Afolabi, Secretary, Joseph Adesuyan, Assistant General Secretary Eniola Olurankinse, Financial Secretary Femi Atolagbe, Treasurer, Gbenga Oluwajana

Others are the Former Chairman of SWAN in Ondo State and Sports Administrator, Mr Akintunde Akinsemola, Former Caretaker Chairman of Ondo SWAN, Femi Dario and Member, Adewale Bashir

Ondo NIPR congratulates Sir Steve Alabi on ascension of Osi-Ekiti traditional stool

May 9, 2024

The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Ondo-state Chapter has extended heartfelt congratulations to Sir Steve Alabi, an esteemed veteran member of NIPR on his selection as the Oba-elect of Osi-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

The Chairman of the Ondo State Chapter Mr. Ikueduranni anipr while speaking at the Chapter’s Secretariat in Akure commended Sir Steve Alabi for his outstanding contributions to Public Relations over the years as well as his unwavering commitment to serving his community. As a veteran and longstanding Professional member and former Chairman of the State Chapter, Sir Alabi has exemplified the highest standard of professionalism, integrity, and dedication, making him a respected figure within the profession and beyond.

According to him “the news of Sir Steve Alabi’s selection as Oba-elect of Osi-Ekiti is a testament to his leadership qualities, cultural heritage, and deep-rooted ties with the community”. He expressed confidence that his reign as the traditional ruler will bring prosperity and enablement to the people of Osi-Ekiti.

The Chairman pledged the institute’s full support and collaboration with Sir Steve Alabi in his new role as Oba-elect, “Together, we will work to advance the principles of decency in governance, cultural preservation, and social harmony for the benefit of all” he added.

Ikueduranni extended warm congratulations to Sir Steve Alabi on this momentous occasion and wishes him continued success and fulfillment in his noble endeavors as the traditional ruler of Osi-Ekiti.

Mrs Oluwafunke Asagunla, anipr
Public Relations Executive
Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ondo State Chapter

Work with us to develop Ondo State, Information Commissioner, Akinlosotu, urges Journalists

May 9, 2024

The Ondo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu has urged journalists in the state to provide maximum support for the Aiyedatiwa Administration in its developmental drive.

The Commissioner was at the NUJ Press Centre to meet with members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Ondo state.

He stated that, it is important to meet with them because, for any government that seeks to achieve great success and public acceptability, it must employ positively the services of practising journalists within its domain.

Akinlosotu acknowledged the roles of the media in shaping the affairs of any society and as such expects Journalists to tell the world the achievements of the present government and also project the good sides of Ondo state.

The Commissioner said he will always make time available to meet minds with media practitioners in the state.

Responding, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ondo State Council, Comrade Leke Adegbite, appreciated the commissioner for deeming it fit to visit them having described him as a man of integrity and disarming humility.

Comrade Adegbite assured the commissioner of their readiness to partner with the state government to achieve good results.

Timilehin Ogunsulire
Media Manager
Ministry of Information and Orientation
May 9th, 2024.

SWAN National body congratulates new Ekiti Ọba-elect

May 8, 2024

TEACHERS’ APPOINTMENTS: ONDO SUBEB TO CONDUCT COMPUTER-BASED TEST FOR APPLICANTS

May 8, 2024

In line with the Ondo State Government’s commitment to recruiting highly skilled professionals into its public service, the State Universal Basic Primary Education Board (ODSUBEB) is set to conduct a Computer-Based Test (CBT) for applicants seeking teaching positions in public primary schools across the state.

According to a press release issued by ODSUBEB’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Prince Bolu Diesel Ajijo, the CBT will take place on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024 from 8.00am to 6.00pm.

To ensure a smooth exercise, applicants will receive information through SMS detailing how to log in to the portal, few hours to the commencement of the examination

It is instructive to note that two Portals will be opened for the exercise. One each for NCE and degree holders. Each applicant is to answer 25 questions in 10 minutes.

The Executive Chairman of the Board, RT Hon. Victor Olabimtan, described the recruitment exercise as a replacement initiative for teachers who have been transferred or retired from rural and hard-to-reach areas of the state.

With over 31,000 qualified applicants vying for 2,000 teaching vacancies, the CBT is designed to identify the best candidates for the positions.

Permanent Secretary, Chief ‘Dele Akinnagbe, urged the applicants to prepare thoroughly for the CBT, as there will be no room for favoritism or shortcuts in the recruitment process.

esigned:
Prince Bolu Diesel Ajijo
Director, Information & PR

NLC reacts to new cybersecurity levy, calls for reversal

May 7, 2024

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

ABOUT US

MISSION STATEMENT

FOLLOW US