The Special Assistant on Road and Transport, Egbeda Local Government, has sent his condolence message to the Chairman of Oyo State Park Management System, Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa over the loss of his wife’ Alhaja Ganiyat Omolewa.
“Receiving the death news of our leader’s wife came as a rude shock to me, Alhaja Ganiyat Omolewa was a mother to all, and I can imagine the big vacuum that has been created in the family, I pray to God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss at this trying time”
Deacon further charges Alhaji Tomiwa Omolewa Tommy to be strong at this time for the family.
“Losing one’s heart rob comes with it mental stress, and I pray that God will give Alhaji the strength to be strong for the family at this time, and May God grant the departed soul Aljana-fridaous”
Alhaji Hamzat Kolayode Iysau, President of Oyo Artisans, on behalf of Artisans in the State congratulates Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi on his installation as the Asiwaju of Ona Ara, a prestigious title bestowed by the Ona Ara Local Government Traditional Council in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of Oyo State.
According to Alhaji Hamzat Kolayode, he described Chief Sanusi as visionary businessman, philanthropist, and community leader, who has made remarkable strides in various sectors.
“He is a community leader who has continue to contribute greatly to the advancement of the state, among other things, we recognise his investments in education through the Ibadan College of Arts, Science, and Technology (ICAST) and the establishment of the Ilaji Hotel and Resort have boosted tourism, and youth development in Oyo State. His initiatives, such as the Ilaji Soccer Academy, have empowered numerous youths with opportunities to pursue football careers internationally”
“Chief Sanusi’s dedication to his community is evident through his infrastructure projects, such as providing electricity and constructing durable roads in areas like Ona Ara and beyond. His unwavering commitment to improving living standards for residents has earned him respect across Oyo State”
“As he steps into this new role as Asiwaju, the Oyo Artisans reaffirm their support for his visionary leadership and express our gratitude for his relentless efforts in fostering progress and empowerment across the state” he stated.
Alhaja Abegbo Lawal on behalf of No Woman no Nation Renewed Hope has felicitated with Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, as he becomes the Asiwaju of Ona Ara.
The conferment which was done by the Traditional Council of Ona Ara Local Government led by His Royal Highness Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland on Saturday, 5th October in Akanran, Ibadan.
According to the group, this great honor is a recognition of Chief Sanusi’s dedication and commitment to Ona-Ara development and Oyo State by extension.
The foremost market leader in Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje has congratulated Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, the Jagunmolu Olubadan of Ibadanland, on his installation and decoration as Asiwaju of Ona Ara by the Traditional Council of Ona Ara Local Government by His Royal Highness Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland.
According to a statement by her media office, Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje described the Honor bestowed on Chief Dotun Sanusi as a reward for hard work which is well deserved.
“I congratulate our leader, and father Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi the new Asiwaju of Ona-Ara Local Government, the award is a well deserved one, and timely, it shows that there’s reward for hard work, most especially serving others”
“Chief Dotun Sanusi has been committed to the development of the Local Government since he started his business there, and his impact has been felt far beyond the local government, we market leaders recognizes this and we felicitate with him on this new role, and pray that may Almighty God grant his heart desires, especially as his vision to govern Oyo State right”
Hon. Samson Tijani Adeyemo has proudly commended the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde, whose administration has set a new standard for governance in Oyo State.
The latest commissioning of the Local Government Service Commission & Pension Building is a striking testament to the Governor’s resolve to elevate public service efficiency and improve the welfare of the people.
This new facility will provide a much-needed upgrade to the infrastructure supporting local government services, ensuring smoother operations and quicker access to benefits for pensioners, who have spent their lives serving the state. Governor Makinde’s commitment to the welfare of civil servants and retirees remains unmatched, and this project reflects his broader agenda of human development.
Under the leadership of Governor Makinde, Oyo State has witnessed remarkable progress across various sectors. Some of his other notable achievements include:
The Light-Up Oyo Project, which has brought over 200 kilometers of street lighting to different parts of the state, boosting security, extending business hours, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.
The construction of Ojoo & Challenge Bus Terminal, including the ongoing Iwo-Road Bus Terminals aimed at transforming the transport sector and providing a modern facility for commuters, thereby improving urban mobility and reducing traffic congestion.
The LAUTECH Sole Ownership Achievement, which has ended decades of joint ownership issues, bringing complete control of the institution to Oyo State and allowing for better management and expansion of educational opportunities for students.
Governor Makinde’s administration continues to blaze the trail with innovative projects aimed at modernizing the state’s infrastructure, boosting the economy, and improving the quality of life for its citizens. His forward-thinking approach to governance, underscored by transparency and inclusiveness, is transforming Oyo State into a beacon of development in Nigeria.
As a responsible citizen of Oyo State, I celebrate Governor Makinde’s exceptional achievements and express my full support for his administration’s ongoing efforts to elevate Oyo State to greater heights.
Signed Hon. Samson Tijani Adeyemo Ona Ara PDP Stalwart
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII at its General Assembly of Friday, 6th. October 2023 formally approved the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, as presented before the house by the President General, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole Esq.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, herein referred to as “the committee” was given the assignment to organize the Annual Ibadan Cultural Festival Programme. The committee was inaugurated by the Executive Council on Friday 3rd November, 2024 at the Ibadan House, Oke Aremo Ibadan.The committee, at the inaugural meeting, set up fourteen (14) sub-committees to assist the Central committee in achieving the given assignment.The Chairman of the Committee, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, expressed his appreciation to all the members especially the committee executive team namely, Dr. Mrs Monsurat Ayo Alaga (Vice Chairman), Engineer Busari Akere (Secretary) and Dr. Mrs Iyabo Fadiora (Assistant Secretary ). He extended appreciation also to the Sub-Committee Chairmen and Secretaries.
The committee is blessed with many other eggheads too numerous to be specially mentioned.For the first time in history, a Cultural Festival dedicated bank account was launched by the CCII Exco in response to the Cultural Festival Committee Chairman request. Thanks to the President General and the Treasurer for all the efforts in this regard.A Board Room platform which comprises of all Chairmen of Sub-Committees, Representatives of Market Leaders and the Warlords Association, Representatives of the Ibadan Prime Youths Forum including the representatives of selected media establishments, hold virtual meetings to brainstorm on the progress, developments and challenges encountered at various sub-committee levels.A total of twelve (12) Central Committee physical meetings and series of virtual interactive sessions were held before the commencement of the main events alongside a series of parallel sub-committee meetings.
Reports and feedback were made to the Executive council during Executive meetings and as may be requested.This year Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee introduced an Internally Generated Fund Initiative through voluntary donations from the committee members. The donations represented our take off grant and thanks to all our very patriotic members.Another novel initiative for fund generation was introduced through Special Decorations on identified individuals. A comprehensive list of our Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture will appear under Decorations and Awards however, it is important to note that it was at such occasions where His Eminence, Aare Dr. Dawood Makanjuola De-Damak investiture as The Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture ( GCIC ) that a brand new 18 Seater Bus worth Thirty Eight Million Naira (N38M) and Ten million naira was donated. May his wealth and health continue to increase. AmenIt is thus worthy of note to mention that this committee does not make any recourse whatsoever to the CCII fund in executing this year’s cultural festival from commencement to the Grand Finale. To God belongs all glory.
The Official Flag Off for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival was held on Monday 19th February, 2024 in a grand style following the initial approval of His Excellency, The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS for the Cultural festival to be held between 14th and 20th April, 2024.The passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sen. Dr. Mohood Ishola Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II on the 14th March, 2024 brought abrupt suspension to all the cultural activities. His Imperial Majesty was interned on the 15th March, 2024 according to the muslim rites.There was a period of Interregnum between the 15th March, 2024 till 12th July, 2024 due to an unusual delay in the installation and coronation of the new Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.The New Aafin Olubadan was commissioned on Wednesday 10th July while the new Olubadan was installed and crowned on Friday 12th July, 2024 to pave the way for resumption of the cultural festival activities.During the period of the interregnum, some Staggered Programs were held between Friday 31st May and Thursday 4th July, 2024 such as the Finals of Ibadan Got Talent, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant, All Ibadan Youths Conference, Table Tennis and Ayo Olopon Finals, Stage Play on Balogun Ajayi Osungbekunmi, Education All categories Finals and Football competition finals.The committee visited fourteen (14) media houses, Speaker House of Assembly, Six State Commissioners, the Chief Judge, the Council of Iyalodes, the Olubadan-in-Council, Dr. Chief Omololu Olunloyo, the Deputy Governor, the Wife of the Governor and other very important personalities in and outside the state to solicit support and sponsorship of the program.Ten Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture (GAIC ) and One Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture (GCIC ) were decorated with pop and pageantryNumerous deserving and worthy individuals received different awards in the categories of MPII, MDII, MOFI and MOWI before and during the Grand Finale.All proceeds were directly remitted to the dedicated FCMB Account of the CCII Cultural Festival and transparently managed by the CCII signatories.The CCII and the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee paid Royal Homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland,
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin and his Council on the 22nd July, 2024 to receive Royal blessing and approval to continue with the programs of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.The program resummed on the 24th July, 2024 with the newly introduced innovation into the cultural festival where Ibadan Local Couisines such as Aawon, Oojo, Ekuru, Akaakoko, Tuuwo, Egbo and Ewa, Oole ati eko, Ekomimun ati akara kengbe, dundu ati ewa were served as breakfast to two thousands members at the historical Mapo Hall Arena, Ibadan. This was followed by Road Show from Mapo Hall to Ibadan House.The annual Amala Festival and Fuji Fiesta was held on the same day at the Ibadan House Premises. Awards were presented to notable Ibadan Business Leaders and leading Fuji musicians. His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja , Chief Bayo Oyero, Chief Mrs Bode Amao, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, Oyo State Chief Judge , Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and a host of other Important dignitaries graced the ocassion. Hot Amala with assorted meat, fish and ogunfe were served to more than 2,000 members and special guests. Alhaji Tajudeen System, Alhaji Rashidi Ayinde and other Fuji Stars performed on stage at this epoc making event where all were dressed in this year’s Amala Day Festival.The Business Luncheon was held at the Ilaji Hotels and Resorts where series of awards were presented to various awardees in different categories.
A prominent Lagos based entertainer, Peter Akah who had shown tremendous love of Ibadanland by memorising all the Ibadan rulers since inception till date on a viral social media was brought in for due recognition and appreciation. He received material gifts, an award and cash gifts of more than Three million naira on the spot. His joy knows no bounds and was full of praises of Ibadanland.Friday 26th July, 2024 was the Special Jummah Service which was held at the Oja’Ba Central Mosque and all the Central Mosques in Ibadanland. The Chief Imaam of Ibadanland prayed for the Leadership of the CCII and Ibadanland especially on the successful completion of the Aafin Olubadan during this regime. The Jummah Service was well attended by members of the CCII affiliate clubs.The Fellowship Award was held immediately after the Jummah Service at the Civic Center where several awardees received their nominated awards. The Oyo State Speaker, House of Assembly, many Local Government Chairmen, Obas and Council of Mogajis and Baales graced this august ocassion.The Grand Finale was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium on Saturday, 27th July, 2024. This year’s Grand Finale was specially attended by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde, FNSE, DSC, GSSRS, The First Lady, Chief Mrs Tamunominini Makinde who received the coveted Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland MOWI, the Deputy Governor, Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal who received the coveted Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland MOFI , the Chairman of the Ocassion, Deacon Oladejo Owolabi , CEO IBR Impact Radio and Adelayo Academy and other very important dignitaries. The President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole played Host to these important dignitaries. Vey important dignitaries from home and abroad were called forward to receive several categories of awards. The event witnessed the traditional parade of the masquerades, Warlord Exhibitions and the colorful exhibition of variety affiliate clubs. Live streaming and broadcasting through all available social media networks showcased this year’s cultural festival to the full acceptance of the International audience. Glory be to God almighty.
The Special Thanksgiving Service was held at The Cathedral of St. Peters Aremo at a fully packed event. The Bishop prayed for the CCII, Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria. May we continue to celebrate many more Ibadan Cultural Festival. Amen
MAJOR CHALLENGES
Despite a smooth take-off of this year’s activities, we recorded quite a number of major challenges which constituted an unimaginable set back to the program.
Passage of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun at the middle of the programme .
Four months gap between the passage of one Oba to the installation of another Olubadan.
A longest period of interregnum in the history of Ibadanland.
Skyrocket increase in the prices of commodities.
High cost of fuel towering above one thousand naira per litre.
The need to recirculate hundreds of sponsorship letters in and outside the state . Effect of changes in dates on our potential sponsors.
Difficulty encountered for securing the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium for the Grand Finale on time which led to the delay in setting up the venue. We thank Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli for his last minute intervention in this regard.
APOLOGIES
The delay in accessing the Grand Finale venue caused untold hardships for the vendors who brought canopies, chairs, tables and other rentals as they were denied access to the venue a day prior. This affected some affiliate clubs in making necessary arrangements for their members. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.Some paid adverts and goodwill messages were not captured in our brochures for some technical reasons, please accept our apologies. Necessary arrangement is in place to either refund payment or repost the material in subsequent CCII Publications.
APPRAISALS/APPRECIATIONS
First and foremost, we return all praises and adoration to God almighty for making it possible for us to deliver an unprecedented 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
To God belongs all the glory.We thank the Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole led CCII Executive Council for giving us the opportunity to serve our fatherland in this capacity. We also thank the entire members of the CCII for their prayers and support without which we couldn’t have recorded this exemplary success. Appreciation is also due to the entire administrative and non-administrative staff of Ibadan House.
Thank you all. Importantly, immense appreciation goes to all the members of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee by standing firmly with devotion, dedication and total commitment in ensuring that success is achieved, through thick and thin. Almighty God will never desert you at your point of needs.E se A dupe, I hold you all in very high esteem.We must not fail to specially appreciate all the affiliate clubs for making this year’s program the MOST COLORFUL, ATTRACTIVE AND ENTERTAINING EVENT in the history of Ibadan Cultural Festival. Thanks and God Bless you All.To our donors who are never tired of supporting all our activities generously, may the good Lord continue to increase you in all capacities.I pray that my successor will keep the flag higher and build on the established success story.Ile Ibadan yoo gbe gbogbo wa O. Aamin.E ba n gbomo Oke, Lanti Lantiiii.
The Oyo State Chairperson of the National Association of Nigeria Traders (NANTs) who doubles as the Acting Coordinator for the association south west zone, Princess Aderonke Rahmat Adedoja on Thursday 3rd of September hosted her counterparts across the south west to the regional meeting of the association which held at Oyo NANTs Secretariat.
The National Chairman of the board of trustee of NANTs, Prince Haruna Yusuf was the special guest of Honor, and was warmly received by Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, foremost market leader alongside Oyo NANTs executive.
Presents at the meeting were NANTs leaders from Ogun State, Osun State, Lagos State, Ekiti State, Ondo State, and the host,Oyo State.
In her welcome address, Princess Aderonke Rahmat Adedoja appreciated the state executive and stakeholders for their support since she was asked to take over, and stated emphatically that the success so far were product of their cooperation and support, as she’s not better than them, that it’s just an opportunity to serve them.
She thereafter recognised the presence of her colleagues from the region, and further seek for their support as they build a strong southwest NANTs. “Today’s gathering is a testament to our collective resolve to promote the interests of Nigerian traders and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth”
“I am honoured to have Prince Haruna Yusuf, BOT Chairman, NANTs with us today, to share valuable insights on NANTs history, vision, and the trader’s role in Nigeria’s economic development””I also acknowledged the tireless efforts of our State Executives, Chairpersons, and Coordinators, whose dedication has been instrumental in advancing NANTs Objectives” she said.
In his speech, Prince Haruna Yusuf established the fact that it was the late former Governor of Old Oyo State and former Minister of the Nigeria, Chief Bola Ige that made the registration of NANTs National to be possible, and today’s history about the association won’t be complete with his name, the role he played, and particularly the fact that he was a Yoruba man.”I must say that NANTs wouldn’t have been possible with the late Chief Bola Ige, he fought for the registration of NANTs, what we are enjoying today wouldn’t have been possible without him”Prince Haruna highlighted some of the efforts that is ongoing which is a proposal to the government on Bank of Trading & Investment just as the Bank of Agriculture and Bank of Industry, he also stated the loan available for small scale traders among others. The Southwest association requested for a smooth working relationship with the BOT for the benefit of their members.
The meeting discussed issues surrounding the tenure elongation at the National level, areas of possible collaboration among the States, and the progress that needs to be made among members across States and regions.
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter,proudly celebrate His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde,for his outstanding leadership and the landmark accomplishments recorded under his administration.
Yesterday’s commissioning of the newly constructed Local Government Service Commission & Staff Pension Building stands as yet another proof to his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and improving governance in Oyo State.
This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances the operational capacity of the Local Government Service Commission but also provides a conducive environment for Staff training and pensioners to access services in dignity and comfort. The building is a symbol of Governor Makinde’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and the welfare of the people, particularly local government staff and retirees.In addition to this remarkable milestone, Governor Makinde has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, which has translated into significant infrastructural developments across Oyo State. Notable projects include:-The reconstruction of the Moniya-Iseyin Road a vital economic artery that connects Oke-Ogun to Ibadan, greatly facilitating the movement of goods and services and boosting agriculture in the region.
The expansion and rehabilitation of health facilities across the state, ensuring improved healthcare delivery for residents.
Ongoing projects like the Ibadan Circular Road which promises to reduce traffic congestion and enhance economic activities.
Governor Makinde’s leadership continues to pave the way for Oyo State to thrive as an economic hub and a model of good governance. His visionary infrastructure projects are transforming the state, creating opportunities for growth, and ensuring a brighter future for all citizens.
As a youth friendly governor, who we can say currently have the highest number of youths in his government which is unprecedented in the State among other youth based initiative programmes that has been implemented in the State is currently training over 3,000 youth in web design, digital marketing and other 21st century skills through the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development.Once again, we commend Governor Makinde for his outstanding contributions to the development of Oyo State and reaffirm our support for his administration as it continues to achieve unprecedented progress.
Signed:
Femi OladosuState Acting Coordinator,
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter
The driving force behind any modern economy is electricity. It promotes growth, innovation, and production while providing energy to homes, small businesses, and industries. However, Nigeria’s problems with electricity delivery and tariff costs extend far beyond mere convenience; they financially burden the public and substantially limit the country’s capacity to develop economically. Consumers are separated into various rate-based categories under the present band system, which stifles economic growth and fosters inequality. Nigeria’s economy is heavily based on businesses such as telecommunications, agriculture, and manufacturing, all of which require a consistent, reliable electrical supply. The expensive and unpredictable electricity costs that businesses around the country must pay impede productivity. The most badly hit are Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which account for more than 90% of all businesses in Nigeria and are critical to the country’s economic progress. Because of the high electricity expenses associated with the band system, many SMEs are obliged to allocate a greater portion of their operational budget to power, money that could be better spent growing their businesses and creating jobs. Large-scale businesses are disproportionately affected since they are typically put in higher tariff bands, which result in higher electricity bills. This leads to higher manufacturing costs, which consumers eventually pay for when purchasing goods and services. The significant knock-on effects on inflation and consumer purchasing power have harmed the economy. The country’s overall productivity suffers when businesses are unable to operate profitably due to high energy costs. Growth is hampered, Nigeria’s global competitiveness suffers, and as a result, both domestic and foreign investment are discouraged. In general, investors are hesitant to enter the market when operational costs are consistently high, especially when it comes to energy. It is impossible to exaggerate the electrical band system’s long-term economic impact on Nigeria. If a country lacks affordable, reliable electricity, it cannot expect to see significant industrial expansion. Reduced economic output, slower GDP growth, and fewer job prospects follow. Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and transition away from an oil-based economy would continue to lag behind other countries in the lack of a modern, functional electricity distribution infrastructure. The high cost of power hinders foreign investors, who would prefer invest in areas with dependable infrastructure. Nigeria’s irregular power supply and discriminatory pricing structure have prompted many multinational enterprises to seek chances elsewhere. When seen independently, the ramifications of Nigeria’s electrical band plan are considerably more disturbing. Many Nigerians’ home budgets are beginning to suffer as a result of rising power bills. Families, already plagued by rising unemployment, inflation, and uncertain economies, must now pay significantly more for power without receiving better services. Take the example of a Nigerian who earns N70,000 each month. It is economically absurd if they are placed in Band A and forced to pay N10,000 (44.44 kilowatt at N225 unit as against the old tariff of 147 kilowatt at N68) per week for power. Their energy expenses would have depleted their entire wage, leaving little money for food, shelter, healthcare, or education. The current condition of affairs is extending the wealth gap and increasing the country’s poverty rates. People in the lower bands have an unpredictable power supply, which limits their work opportunities, whereas those in the higher bands live in an environment where electricity is considered a luxury for those who can afford it. The system for dividing power prices into bands is unfair. Even though everyone uses the same basic service (electricity) those in Band A pay significantly more per unit of power than those in Bands B and C. The main issue with the band system is that it penalizes some users while ignoring the egalitarian and open ideals of consumption-based billing. It is time to eliminate the unfair practice of taxing citizens to pay for infrastructure improvements and transition to a single tariff system that costs based on usage. To see why the current band system is unfair, consider this simple analogy in greater detail. Assume that two people buy N1,000 worth of mobile phone airtime each, which they can use anyway they choose. For the sake of argument, assume that a resident of an area with better network coverage pays a higher rate per minute for calls made, whereas a resident of a poorer service region pays a lower rate per minute. Does this make sense? Should the local state of network decide their rate per minute? Naturally, no. The concept should be simple, each person should pay the same amount every minute, and their total payment should be determined by the number of minute(s). Electricity should be subject to the same logic. If someone consumes 500 kWh of power, they should pay the same price per unit whether they live in a rural area or urban area. It makes no difference where they reside or how many hours a day they have access to energy; what matters is the amount consumed. People in Band A pay much more per unit (300%) under the current band arrangement because they expect greater service. It is unfair and impossible to charge someone extra for airtime simply because their phone has a better signal. In Nigeria’s power industry, the practice of holding residents financially liable for infrastructure maintenance and repair, notably cables and transformers, is a major cause of concern. Furthermore, this is a severe injustice. Power Distribution Companies (DisCos), are thriving enterprises. One of its primary responsibilities is to invest in and maintain the infrastructure that provides electricity to homes and businesses. So, why are the general public’s costs involved with these necessary replacements and repairs? What if phone companies requested their customers to fix their failing network towers? These are the properties of the power companies, and their operating budgets must cover the costs of maintaining them. They have a responsibility to ensure the proper operation of the electrical infrastructure and should not shift that burden onto customers who have already paid for the service. By charging consumers to rectify these problems, DisCos are effectively charging them twice for the same service. This exploitative behavior must end. The band system and unequal power supply allocation increase the public’s impression of injustice. Many people in Band A are obliged to find other methods to make ends meet because the power supply is more reliable but also more expensive. This encourages corrupt behaviour. In order to pay for basics, persons in desperate situations may resort to unscrupulous activities such as paying officials or taking shortcuts. Furthermore, the structure limits persons in B and C’s ability to improve their financial situation. When electricity is inconsistent, they are unable to run small enterprises, conduct entrepreneurial ventures, or even use basic household appliances. The poor are trapped in an endless circle of economic stagnation because they lack the authority to modify their financial status. Nigeria’s economic potential can only be achieved by breaking the cycle and enacting energy sector reforms immediately. The most egalitarian course of action is to establish a unified pricing system for all citizens, with tariffs based on actual electricity consumption rather than location or arbitrary bands. A system like this would help bridge the economic gap and ensure that consumers only pay for what they use. It would also encourage fairness. Furthermore, the government should prioritize improving the electrical industry’s poor infrastructure, which includes things like damaged transformers and faulty lines that typically require private investment to repair. Distribution businesses (DisCos), which benefit from the current system but do not invest in modernizing and maintaining its infrastructure, should shoulder the majority of the burden. In addition to being unpleasant, Nigeria’s current energy pricing system endangers both the stability of the national economy and the well-being of its people. The growing cost of electricity is exacerbating poverty, limiting corporate expansion, and fostering corruption. The Nigerian government must take action to build a more equitable and transparent energy delivery system that bases pricing on actual consumption rather than bogus classifications. Nigeria may be able to reduce household debt, support small and medium-sized businesses, and stimulate economic growth by reforming its electrical sector. Eventually, this would result in greater living standards and a more robust and resilient economy for all Nigerians. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission should quickly amend its regulations to allow many DISCOs to operate in the same area. Those that can be reached within a geopolitical zone must at the very least cross it. For example, the six states of the Southwest should have access to EKEDC, IKEDC, and IBEDC. Customers would have more freedom and choice, much like in the GSM market. Models like retail choice model (as seen in Texas, the United States, and Australia), an open access approach, and a competitive franchise model similar to those seen in the United Kingdom, can be adopted. This will boost competition, reduce monopolies, and encourage innovation in electricity distribution.
Dr. Olaleke Alao Secretary, Center for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) Inc, Maryland, USA & CCDI Ltd/Gte, Nigeria
The foremost market leader in Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, has joined the multitude of well-wishers to celebrate the birthday of Chief Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja, the esteemed former First Lady of Oyo State.
According to a statement made available to news men in Ibadan, She described the former first day as a woman of substance whose contribution to the State as first lady remains undefeated.
“I congratulate our mother on her birthday anniversary, her impact even after leaving office as first lady of the State after many years remains obvious and felt by the people, as she’s ever energetic, i pray to God to grant her long life in prosperity”
