Celebrating a Visionary Leader: Professor Soji Adejumo at 68

I join other Nigerians to celebrate a remarkable individual, Professor David Olusoji Adejumo, as he marks his 68th birthday. A distinguished academic, seasoned administrator, and dedicated public servant, Professor Adejumo has left an indelible mark on the educational landscape of Nigeria.Born on December 3, 1956, in Ibadan, Professor Adejumo’s academic journey began at the Ibadan Grammar School, where he laid the foundation for his future success. He proceeded to the University of Ibadan, earning his BSc, MSc, and PhD in Animal Science, all within a span of eight years.

Professor Adejumo’s contributions to education and public service are numerous. As the Executive Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) from 2007 to 2011, he implemented innovative programmes, such as the “Adopt a School” initiative, which promoted private sector involvement in public education. His tenure also saw the mass recruitment of teachers and the establishment of school marshals to maintain discipline.

Throughout his career, Professor Adejumo has held various positions, including Chairman of the Governing Council of Emmanuel Alayande College of Education, Special Adviser to the Oyo State Government on Agriculture and Food Production, and Member of the Federal Government panel on the review of the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB).In his native Ìbàdàn, Prof. Adejumo is the first Ajírọ́ba of Ìbàdànland and Ẹ̀kẹrin of Omí-Àdìó, positioning him as 4th in line to the throne of the Ọlọ́mí of Ọ̀mi-Adio.As we celebrate Professor Adejumo’s 68th birthday, I honour his dedication to education, his commitment to public service, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of Nigerians. I wish him many more years of good health, happiness, and continued service to humanity.

Happy birthday, Sir!!!Cheers!!!

Tunji Oladejo, JP, MNIPR, MANUPADirector Ibadan University Press (Publishing House)University of Ibadan.

Jubril Dotun Sanusi: 2027 and the choice of Political Party

As Oyo State prepares for the next gubernatorial election, the political atmosphere is ripe for strategic decisions that will shape the state’s future. Among the leading aspirants, Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi (JDS) emerges as a beacon of hope and progress. To maximize his impact and position Oyo State for growth, it is imperative that JDS seeks the gubernatorial ticket under the All Progressives Congress (APC). The leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ushered in a new era of progressive governance in Nigeria.

President Tinubu’s ability to galvanize national resources, foster infrastructural development, and drive economic policies is unparalleled. Oyo State, under the APC, stands to benefit immensely from this federal advantage. By aligning with the APC and leveraging Tinubu’s leadership, JDS can position Oyo State as a priority for federal projects, investments, and policies. This strategic alignment ensures that Oyo will no longer operate in isolation but will instead thrive as a key player in Nigeria’s developmental agenda. Jubril Dotun Sanusi has consistently demonstrated a leadership style rooted in vision, pragmatism, and inclusivity—values that align seamlessly with Tinubu’s governance philosophy. Like Tinubu, JDS is a builder of alliances and a unifier of diverse interests.

His track record of fostering community development, creating jobs, and driving innovation mirrors the progressive ideals that Tinubu champions at the federal level. Tinubu’s ability to nurture leaders and drive transformation through collaboration is evident in his governance legacy. JDS, as a product of these principles, is uniquely positioned to replicate this success in Oyo State. His candidature under the APC banner will undoubtedly bolster the party’s mission of delivering impactful governance at all levels. The recent by-elections in Edo and Ondo States have highlighted the strategic importance of aligning state politics with federal influence. Under the APC, these states have demonstrated how federal support can amplify governance outcomes and ensure electoral success. For Oyo State to tap into this federal might, JDS must lead the charge under the APC platform.

With his widespread support across all 33 local governments, as identified by Abegbo Lawal’s research, JDS is the ideal candidate to unite the state and leverage federal resources for transformative development. JDS’s past political alignments during the 2023 presidential and gubernatorial elections showcased his ability to identify and collaborate with the right leaders for progress.

By seeking the APC ticket, he will solidify his alliances within the party and position himself as a unifying figure capable of bringing all stakeholders together under a common vision for Oyo State. The APC, led by Tinubu, represents a coalition of progressive minds committed to Nigeria’s growth. JDS’s entry into the gubernatorial race under this platform will not only galvanize support within the party but also inspire confidence among the electorate, ensuring a landslide victory that secures Oyo State’s future. Engr. Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the people of Oyo State are ready for your leadership. As a progressive leader who embodies the values of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, your decision to seek the APC gubernatorial ticket is not just a political move but a commitment to Oyo’s future.

This is your moment to unite Oyo State under the federal umbrella and bring about unprecedented development. Seize the opportunity, lead with courage, and ensure that Oyo State becomes a model of progress, powered by the vision of Tinubu and the strength of the APC.

Signed:

Alhaja Abegbo Lawal.

JDS support group.

OYOSUBEB Set To Onboard 5,600 Newly Recruited Teachers, As Verification Exercise Begins Dec. 5

The Oyo State Government on Monday said a total of 5,600 newly recruited teachers will be uploaded into its database and thereafter, ready to be deployed to public basic schools across the state.

Speaking in Ibadan, the Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said the board has scheduled dates for verification of the newly recruited teachers from Thursday, December 5, 2024 to Monday, December 16, 2024.

Recall that the board recently announced the list of successful candidates who made it through the first batch of teachers’ recruitment.

Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran said the verification exercise will take place at the board’s headquarters in Agodi, Ibadan.He reiterated the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration towards the welfare of teachers in the state.Adeniran noted that 5,600 candidates were listed in the first batch, which was duly approved by Governor Seyi Makinde.In the statement, Dr. Adeniran said the verification session will take 8 working days, and will be witnessed by relevant stakeholders.

Dr. Adeniran gave the verification schedules as follows:• THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2024: Akinyele and Ido Local Government Areas.

• FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2024: Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East and Oyo West Local Government Areas.

• MONDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2024: Lagelu, and Egbeda LGAs.

• TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024: Ibadan North, Ibadan North-East, Ibadan North-west, Ibadan South East and Ibadan South West Local Government Areas.

• WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2024: Ibarapa Central, Ibarapa East, Ibarapa North, Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Ogo -Oluwa, Olorunsogo, and Oriire LGAs

• THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2024: Iseyin, Oluyole and Ona-Ara Local Government Areas.

• FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024: Atisbo, Irepo, Itesiwaju, Iwajowa, Kajola, Oorelope, Saki East, Saki West, Surulere LGAs

• MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024: People with Disabilities and Caregivers.

The chairman urged all candidates to come with relevant credentials, such as evidence of local government of residence, date of birth certificate, NIN certificate, original certificates from their institutions, original NYSC certificate (for graduates), change of name for married women, printout of congratulatory message, and other relevant documents.The chairman noted that the scheduled time is 9 a.m. each day.

Engr. Seyi Oyebamiji Declares Intent to Contest Egbeda/Ona Ara Federal Constituency Seat Amidst Jubilation

The town of Ajia was filled with excitement on Friday as Seyi Oyebamiji, a renowned philanthropist and political figure officially declared his intention to contest for the Egbeda/Ona Ara Federal Constituency seat under the Peoples Democratic Party PDP.

Oyebamiji made the declaration amidst jubilant party members, political appointees, party leaders and stakeholders including: Alhaji Mufutau Ogunremi (Senatorial Chairman), Alhaji Oloore Moshood (Ward 8 Chairman) and his entire executives, ward 8 PDP Leaders,Chairmen of Ward 1-11 among others, all showing unwavering enthusiasm for his political ambition.

“I am deeply honoured to stand here today, surrounded by my people as I formally declare my intent to run to represent the great people of Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Consistency under our great party, Peoples Democratic Party,” Oyebamiji said. “I believe in Governor Seyi Makinde’s ideology for sustainable growth and the party’s mission for a better country and I am committed to ensuring that Egbeda and Ona Ara receive the best and unrelenting representation they deserve at the federal level. Together, we will achieve meaningful progress.”

As part of the day’s activities, Oyebamiji paid a courtesy visit to the palace of His Royal Highness, the Alajia of Ajia, where he sought royal blessings for his political sojourn. The traditional ruler, in his remarks, commended Oyebamiji’s dedication and offered prayers for his success.

The event further energized the party structure with a renewed call for unity among party members who vowed to continue to work tirelessly for Gov. Makinde’s success and also ensure the actualization of Oyebamiji’s aspiration.

Chief Dotun Sanusi’s Awareness Gubernatorial Campaign Expands to Olohunsogo, Oorelope, and Irepo LGs

The momentum behind Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s (JDS) gubernatorial awareness campaign continues to grow as his team extends its mobilization and solidarity tour to Olohunsogo, Oorelope, and Irepo Local Government Areas. This follows the successful engagement in Itesiwaju, Atisbo, Saki West, and Saki East LGs yesterday, as the team remains committed to spreading awareness and garnering grassroots support for Chief Sanusi’s vision for Oyo State.

At today’s gatherings, prominent stakeholders, women leaders, elders, and youth representatives from the local governments came together to discuss the impact of Chief Sanusi’s candidacy and his commitment to inclusive governance. Alhaja Lawal Abegbo, a key leader of the movement, addressed the crowd with passionate remarks. “Chief Dotun Sanusi represents a leader who understands the pain and aspirations of the people, especially those from marginalized regions outside Ibadan,” she said. “His ambition is not just about becoming governor; it is about ensuring no one is left behind. Whether young or old, everyone will have a voice and benefit from his administration after electoral victory. We must see this mission as our collective ambition.”

In response, residents, who included political stakeholders and union leaders, reassured the team of their unwavering support for JDS. They commended his generosity and community development. However, they emphasized that they would like their local governments to remain actively included in developmental plans after the election. “We believe in Chief Dotun Sanusi because he is a man of action, not just words,” “We have seen his contributions to education, healthcare, and community welfare. But we want to ensure that after his victory, our local governments and people are not forgotten. We will rally around him because we know he has what it takes to lead Oyo State into a new era.”

The campaign team highlighted JDS’s commitment to addressing long-standing inequalities in Oyo State, particularly in rural areas often overlooked in development plans. Drawing parallels with the visit to Itesiwaju Local Government earlier, the team reiterated their belief that Chief Sanusi is the best choice for the people of Oyo State. His track record of philanthropy and community-oriented initiatives, coupled with his vision for inclusive governance, continues to inspire confidence among his supporters.

As the mobilization moves forward, the JDS campaign remains steadfast in its mission to connect with every corner of Oyo State, ensuring that all communities understand the transformative potential of his leadership. The people of Olohunsogo, Oorelope, and Irepo have now joined the growing list of supporters rallying around Chief Dotun Sanusi, determined to see his vision for a better Oyo State realized.

Itesiwaju Local Government Leaders Rally Support for Chief Dotun Sanusi’s Gubernatorial Ambition

In a strategic meeting held in Itesiwaju Local Government, five representatives from each ward, along with 10 women leaders and six prominent elders, convened to intensify awareness and mobilization for Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi’s (JDS) gubernatorial campaign. The gathering aimed to solidify support for JDS, who many believe is the most qualified and compassionate candidate to lead Oyo State.

Speaking at the event, Chief Mrs. Lawal Abegbo, a prominent leader of the team, emphasized that Chief Dotun Sanusi represents the best choice for the people of Oyo State, particularly for regions outside Ibadan that have suffered years of marginalization. “Chief Dotun Sanusi remains a symbol of hope for the people. He will protect the interests of everyone, especially those in areas that have been neglected. Let us see his ambition as our own, as no one young or old will be left behind after his victory,” she said.

In response, the women leaders and elders who spoke expressed their gratitude for Chief Sanusi’s benevolence and unwavering commitment to the people. They acknowledged his significant contributions to their region even before his gubernatorial ambition, citing various philanthropic gestures that have touched lives across the state.

“We have enjoyed Chief Dotun Sanusi’s generosity and care long before he declared his ambition. We are confident he will deliver even greater results if given the opportunity to serve as governor,” one of the women stated.

The Local Government collectively pledged their unwavering support to rally around Chief Sanusi and ensure his electoral victory. They promised to take the message of his vision and leadership to every corner of the local government, reinforcing their commitment to actualizing his ambition.

This meeting in Itesiwaju Local Government further demonstrates the growing momentum behind Chief Dotun Sanusi’s campaign, as communities across Oyo State unite in support of a leader they believe will bring inclusive development and a brighter future for all.

Ibadan Mega Voice marks 2nd anniversary with pomp and pageantry

Ibadan Mega Voice, a distinguished group of professional media practitioners, including musicians and entertainers of Ibadan origin, marked her 2nd anniversary with a grandfinale on the 24th November 2024 with an elaborate ceremony held at the Bode Amao Hall, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan House.

The event featured the presentation of awards of excellence and appreciation to notable individuals for their outstanding contributions to the development of Ibadanland and humanity at large, particularly in their respective fields of endeavour.

The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Chief Sulaimon Adeniyi Ajewole, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, who served as the chairman of the occasion. Chief Mrs. Iswat Abiola Amerigun, the Iyaloja General of Ibadanland, was present as the mother of the day, adding a touch of elegance and prestige to the event.

In his keynote address, Chief Sulaimon Ajewole commended members of Ibadan Mega Voice for their relentless efforts in promoting the cultural heritage and unity of Ibadanland through the arts and media. He emphasized the importance of collective contributions towards the progress of Ibadan and charged the group to remain steadfast in their vision.
The CCII President General also used the opportunity to give an update on the demand for Ibadan State, and assured both citizens and residents that it will be achieved in due time.

Chief Mrs. Iswat Ameringun, in her goodwill message, praised the group for her contributions to the media and entrainment space, and encouraged stakeholders to continue supporting the creative industry as a vital component of societal advancement.

The high point of the event was the award presentation, which saw deserving individuals celebrated for their excellence in diverse fields, ranging from media, culture, and entertainment to community development and public service.

While delivering his speech, President of IMV, Aare Kola Olomide reaffirmed the group’s dedication to advancing the Ibadan narrative positively through media and entertainment. He expressed gratitude to all who attended and supported the celebration, promising to continue contributing to the development of the city and beyond.

The awardees included: Alh. Taye Adebisi Currency, Mogaji Abdulsabur Abiola Olawore, Hon. Adebayo Amusat-Gbenla, Chief Saheed Oladele, Baameko of Ibadanland, Alh. Hashim Atere, Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board ( Muslim Wing), Hon. Sikiru Sanda, Chairman, Egbeda Local Government and Chairman, ALGON, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaja Nurat Bola Yusuf, Ola Mummy Food Canteen among other personalities.

The 2nd-anniversary celebration of Ibadan Mega Voice was a resounding success, leaving a long lasting memory in the mind of those who attended.

Lagelu 16 Club 50th founder’s day anniversary, expert calls for urban renewal agenda, charges govt, to invest in township roads, drainages,water supply, seek collaboration

A Chief Lecturer at The Polytechnic, Ibadan and a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planning (NITP), Dr Durodola Ogunsesan has stressed the need to engage all Stakeholders in the planning, re-engineering of Ibadan inner-core areas to achieve resilience and sustainable development for beauty and comfort.

Dr Ogunsesan stated this on Saturday in Ibadan while delivering a paper titled: The gasping Ibadan inner-core areas; need for its sustainable resilience at the 50th Founder’s Day Anniversary lecture/ Fundraising of Lagelu 16 Club House.According to him, “glaringly, Ibadan inner-core areas have exhibited unpleasant look in the areas of housing conditions, environmental sanitation as well as components, availability and adequacy of socio-physical infrastructural facilities.

He emphasised that the various governments need to “do more by investing in basic areas such as township roads, drainages,water supply (to reduce the menace of borehole drilling) and sanitation through sustainable waste management to cater for the needs of the proposed planned urban upgrade areas “.

The veteran town planner noted that in ensuring sustainable resilience of the inner-core areas in Ibadan, there was “the need to formulate urban renewal agenda in Ibadan being the regional and state capital of the old western region and Oyo State capital”. “Basically, as planners, we hold the key to transforming the chaotic urban landscape into aesthetic,beautiful, resilient and sustainable well structured environment through urban renewal strategies that can comfortably accommodate the growing population, provide essential services and contribute to national growth and development ”

“Adopting the right strategies, rules and regulations by planners and most importantly collaboration with property owners and all other Stakeholders can create more sustainable, resilient and livable human environment in our neighborhoods”.

Dr Ogunsesan stated further that in order to combat youth restiveness, there was the need for a well coordinated strategy to mobilize all potential facilities and existing resources in Ibadan core areas which harbors majority of jobless youth. While calling on all professional organizations to collaborate with various government agencies to ensure a better, freer and indeed a happier environment, the seasoned town planner said all hands must be on deck to provide facilities for the greatest majority to live comfortably wherever they are.

Responding the Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr Bayo Lawal assured that the state government under Gov Seyi Makinde would continue to upgrade infrastructural facilities in all inner-core areas within the state.The Deputy Governor who was represented by Prof Abdul Waheed Adelabu, the Commissioner for Education rejoiced with members of Lagelu 16 Club on the celebration of the golden jubilee anniversary. He eulogised the founding fathers and the current members of the club for their positive contributions to the Socio-economic development of Ibadanland and the state in general.

Earlier in his opening remark, the Chairman of the Occasion, Chief Adeniyi Akintola, SAN commended members of the Club for their selfless service to humanity. Represented by the Ibadan head of his chamber, Chief Adeniyi Oyekunle, acknowledged the fact that he was a beneficiary of Lagelu 16 Club scholarship some years back .

In his address, Alhaji Adegboyega Sanni, President, Lagelu 16 Club thanked all invited guests for their support especially the Chief Launcher, Dr Jide Dosu Babatunde, the Are Ago Mayegun of Ibadanland who had graciously promised to ensure the completion of the Club house. Dr Babatunde, a scion of late Dosu Babatunde, one of the founding fathers of the Club and Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes said nothing was too much to commit to the service of Ibadan.

Oyo Deputy Governor, Olubadan, Akintola, other dignitaries to grace Lagelu 16 Club 50th Founder’s Day Anniversary lecture

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Adeniyi Akintola is to preside over the 50th Founder’s Day Anniversary lecture of Lagelu 16 Club, a socio-cultural organization.

Also, the Royal Father of the day, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin,Olubadan of Ibadanland will join other prominent sons of Ibadanland to celebrate the Club’s Founder’s Day on Saturday, November 23,2024.

The Special Guest of Honour at the occasion is His Excellency, the Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr Bayo Lawal while the Guest lecturer is Dr Durodola Ogunsesan of The Polytechnic, Ibadan. He will be delivering the lecture titled “The Gasping Ibadan inner-core areas : Need for its sustainable development”.Venue is Dapo Aderogba Hall, NUJ Press Center, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

Other eminent personalities expected to grace the occasion include Chief Jide Dosu Babatunde, Chief Mrs Victoria Samson, CEO, BOVAS Group among others.

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