The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has officially appointed Aremo Adepoju Adeola Adebisi as the National Vice Chairman for the South West Zone. His appointment was confirmed following the approval of his nomination at the 87th meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC).
In a letter dated 29th January 2025, signed by the National Secretary of PRP, CMRD. Babatunde F. Alli, Aremo Adepoju was informed of his new role, which comes as part of the NEC’s mandate following the National Convention held on April 2, 2022. The appointment underscores the party’s trust in his leadership capabilities and commitment to advancing PRP’s objectives in the South West region.
Aremo Adepoju’s new position places him at the forefront of PRP’s political engagements across the South West states, where he is expected to play a key role in strengthening the party’s structure, mobilizing support, and championing the party’s ideological stance on good governance and social justice.
His appointment has been met with widespread congratulations from party members and political stakeholders, recognizing his dedication and contributions to the PRP’s growth. As he assumes this new role, expectations are high that his leadership will further enhance the party’s influence and electoral success in the region.
On behalf of JDS Consolidated Groups, we extend our warmest Ramadan greetings to all Muslim faithful in Oyo State, Nigeria, and beyond. As we embark on this sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, we pray that Almighty Allah grants us strength, patience, and unwavering faith to observe this holy period in peace and devotion.
Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and increased acts of kindness and charity. It reminds us of the importance of compassion, unity, and the need to uplift those in need. As we fast from dawn to dusk, may we also purify our hearts, strengthen our faith, and extend our hands in generosity to the less privileged among us. At JDS Consolidated Groups, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting goodwill, community service, and social development, values that align with the teachings of Ramadan. We encourage everyone to use this holy period for personal growth, reconciliation, and collective prayers for our dear state and country. May this Ramadan bring divine blessings, peace, and prosperity to every home.
May our prayers and sacrifices be accepted, let us remember Oyo State in our prayers and may we emerge from this month spiritually enriched and morally uplifted. Ramadan Mubarak!
I have been incredibly busy lately, but I could not miss the opportunity to celebrate Prof. Lucas, a true scholar, on his remarkable 80th birthday. He truly deserves this milestone celebration! To mark this special occasion, I have declared a two-week celebration, symbolically dividing his 80 years into two halves of 40 years each. These two periods represent his dedication to the glory of God and his selfless service to humanity. In celebrating Professor Ephraim Olabode Olusegun Lucas’ life and accomplishments, we are reminded of the enormous impact one person can have on society. Professor Lucas’ academic trajectory demonstrates his tenacity and enthusiasm for learning. Affectionately addressed as Bode, he was born on 27 February, 1945, into a family with a strong academic legacy. His father, the late Chief Ebenezer Olugeshin Lucas, was a pioneer educationist who founded Ilesa Grammar School in 1934. Chief Lucas’ contributions to education were recognised with the esteemed title of Bajulaiye of Erin-Ijesha in 1964. Professor Lucas’ mother, Mrs. Felicia O. Lucas, was a successful trader who passed on in 2009, leaving behind a lasting impact on her family. His academic achievements are matched only by his impressive career, which spans over four decades. He was educated at the following institutions: St. John’s Primary School, Iloro, Ilesa (1950-1957), Ilesa Grammar School (1958-1962), Federal School of Science, Onikan, Lagos (1963-1966), University of Ibadan, Ibadan (1966-1969), Wye College (University of London), where he obtained M.Sc. (1972) and Ph.D. (1975) in Crop Physiology (Agronomy) and the University of Wisconsin, USA, where he obtained a certificate in Agricultural Cooperatives in 1982. Throughout his illustrious academic career, he received numerous prestigious scholarships, prizes and honours, including Cocoa Marketing Board Scholarship at the University of Ibadan (1966-1969); In-Service Training Fellowship (NIFOR) at the Wye College (University of London) from 1971 to 1975; International Atomic Energy Vienna Fellowship at the University of Western Australia (1987); and Research Associate in the Department of Crop Science at the University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada (1988-1989). His distinguished career spans several prestigious institutions, including the Ministry of Lagos Affairs, the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), and the University of Ibadan, where he rose through the ranks to become a Professor of Agronomy. Additionally, he served as a visiting Professor at the University of Fort Hare in Alice, South Africa, from 1999 to 2001. Also, he served as a Consultant to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) in Rural Development (1981) and Sustainable Agriculture (1993). His expertise has also been sought as an External Examiner for numerous universities in Nigeria and abroad. In addition, his expertise in Agronomy has been recognised globally, with numerous publications in local and international journals Professor Lucas had a profound impact on the academic community, supervising 14 Ph.D students and notably, produced the first female Ph.D. holder in Agronomy in Southern Africa, paving the way for future generations of women in Agriculture. This quintessential academic is a distinguished member of various prestigious learned societies, including Agriculture Society of Nigeria, Institute of Biology and American Society of Institute of Biology and American Society of Agronomy.These memberships underscore his commitment to academic excellence and his contribution to the fields of Agriculture and Biology. Between 1984 and 2007, Prof. Lucas demonstrated his commitment to academia and governance through various public service appointments. Here are the key roles he played during this period: Chairmanship Roles Chairman, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan Practical Training Programme (1984-1986); and Chairman, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry Consultancy Committee (1988-1992). Leadership Positions President, University of Ibadan Staff Club (1990-1992); Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry, University of Ibadan (1992-1994); Dean, Postgraduate School (1994-1995) and Head of the Department of Agronomy (2002-2005). Membership Roles Member of the Joint Council/Senate Committee on the appointment of the Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan (1991); Member of University of Ibadan Senate (1983-2010); Member of the Appointments & Promotion Committee, University of Ibadan (1990-1998) and Member of the Governing Council, University of Ibadan Governing (2003-2007). Aside from his distinguished academic career, Professor Lucas is a prolific writer with a diverse range of publications. His notable works, include: 1. Sixty Landmarks (2008) – a publication marking the 60th anniversary of the University of Ibadan, co-edited with Emeritus Professor Femi Osofisan and Mark Aken’Ova; 2. Split Image (2014) – a novel exploring themes of identity and social commentary; 3. Snapshots of National and International Affairs (2016) – a compilation of newspaper articles offering insightful analyses on local and global issues; 4. Iroye: Stories from Childhood (2019) – a collection of short stories reflecting on the author’s formative years; and 5. Dividends of Greed (2021) – a novel delving into the consequences of unchecked ambition and corruption. Professor Lucas’ literary contributions demonstrate his versatility and commitment to storytelling, social critique and academic excellence. I have complimentary copies of these publications, courtesy of Professor Bode Lucas. Despite his many achievements, Professor Lucas remains humble and committed to giving back to society. His impact on education is excellent. The University of Ibadan community is grateful to him for his remarkable contributions to education. Even in retirement, Professor Lucas continues to inspire and nurture academic excellence through his generous endowments. In 2010, Professor Lucas selflessly utilised his gratuity to establish two endowments totaling Two Million Naira. These endowments, which are awarded in perpetuity, demonstrate his commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. The first endowment, dedicated to the Postgraduate College, provides an annual award of N100,000 to the producer of the best thesis in the University. This award not only recognises outstanding research but also encourages postgraduate students to strive for excellence. The second endowment, established at the Faculty of Agriculture, comprises two annual awards: the Best Final Year Student award and the Best Practical Year Student award, each receiving N50,000. These awards motivate undergraduate students to excel in their academic pursuits and practical applications. His endowments embody his dedication to education and his desire to empower future generations. His legacy serves as a shining example of the impact one individual can have on the academic community. As I acknowledge Professor Lucas’ remarkable contributions, I also celebrate the students who have benefited and will continue to benefit from his endowments. The University of Ibadan and the academic community at large are grateful for Professor Lucas’ enduring legacy. His endowments will continue to inspire and reward outstanding academic achievements for many generations. His legacy serves as an inspiration to future generations of academics, researchers and public servants. In celebrating this visionary academic, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Postgraduate College, University of Ibadan, proudly celebrated the 80th birthday of the quintessential academic, This momentous occasion was marked with an interdisciplinary discourse, featuring a keynote lecture titled, “Integrating the Past with the Present for Efficient Administration of the University System” delivered by the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Abel Idowu Olayinka, FAS. The event also included a panel discussion on “Leveraging Technology to Transform Postgraduate Education in Africa,” featuring distinguished Professors from the University of Ibadan: Francis Egbokhare, FNAL, Department of Linguistics and African Languages, Segun Ajiboye, MNAE, FAPPRA, Department of Arts and Social Science Education and Aina Adeogun, Department of Zoology. The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode Adebowale, mni, FAS, presided over the event, while the Provost of the Postgraduate College, Professor A. S.O. Ogunjuyigbe, was the host. The event was to honour Professor Lucas’ life achievements, profound impact on academia, society and celebrate his transformative power of dedication, hard work and visionary leadership. I have had the privilege of experiencing Prof Lucas’ extraordinary humility firsthand. He relates with people of all ages with remarkable warmth and equality as if they were lifelong friends. His exceptional social skills have earned him a reputation of a remarkable socialite. One instance that stands out in my mind is when he addressed me with his characteristic warmth, saying, “Director, you are my friend’. I was deeply touched when he took the time to write a heartfelt message on my 60th birthday, on Wednesday, 19 February, 2025, “Director, happy birthday to you. Since I have known you as a media expert, I have been impressed by your professionalism. You’ve been an asset to our community, celebrating many individuals and bringing joy to others. May God celebrate you too. I wish you a long, healthy life, filled with continued productivity and service to God and humanity. Enjoy your special day”. I am truly grateful for his kind words and do not take his thoughtfulness for granted. Finally, Professor Ephraim Olabode Olusegun Lucas is a shining example of academic excellence, public service and community development. His contributions to Nigeria and the global academic community are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us for generations to come.
Happy happy 80th birthday, Sir. Enjoy your years ahead as usual in the sunshine of life, Sir. Cheers!
Tunji Oladejo writes from the University of Ibadan via oladejo65@gmail.com 08077284442
The Editorial Community Development Service (CDS), Osun State, held its much-anticipated handing-over ceremony today at the Township Stadium, Omowest, Osogbo. The event, which combined multiple activities, featured a debriefing by the Outgoing Batch A executives, an oath-taking ceremony, prayers, an awards session, and games.
The official handing-over session saw each outgoing Batch A executive deliver a brief speech, outlining their key roles and responsibilities, achievements, executed projects, challenges faced, and recommendations for the incoming executives. They emphasized the importance of teamwork and urged their successors to work closely with the Editor-in-Chief to advance the board’s goals and objectives.During the oath-taking session, the Deputy Editor-in-Chief and the Editor-in-Chief were officially sworn in. The outgoing Deputy Editor, Mubarak Adebayo—ably represented by the outgoing Provost, Peter Praise—administered the oath to the new Deputy Editor-in-Chief. Similarly, the outgoing Editor-in-Chief, Gabriel Diemesor, officiated the oath-taking for his successor.
Following the oath-taking, a prayer session was led by the Editor-in-Chief, Adebayo Sunday Adewoyin and the Schedule Officer and Editorial Coordinator, Mrs. Catherine Otemuyiwa. Mrs Otemuyiwa invited the new executives to stand before the board members, who then exchanged handshakes and greetings in a symbolic show of unity. The Provost led this segment, ensuring every executive was formally welcomed. Concluding the session, Mrs. Otemuyiwa offered prayers for the outgoing executives, the incoming leadership, and the board as a whole.In her address, Mrs. Otemuyiwa expressed profound gratitude to the outgoing executives for their dedication and impactful contributions, which significantly advanced the Editorial CDS and the NYSC Public Relations Unit. She encouraged the new executives to take their roles seriously, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving the board’s objectives. She also reassured board members of an open-door policy, urging them to share ideas and programs that could further enhance the CDS.Mrs Otemuyiwa further underscored the significance of regular attendance at CDS meetings, stressing that the Editorial CDS plays a crucial role in representing NYSC Osun State by covering important events and reporting on NYSC activities such as camp programs and other engagements.The Editor’s awards session was another highlight of the ceremony, with over 50 board members, including the Editorial Coordinator and Schedule Officer, Mrs Catherine Otemuyiwa, receiving awards for their outstanding performance, consistency, and excellence in CDS activities. Special recognition was given to members who participated in key programs such as Pad a Thousand Girl Child, Battle of Views, the Editorial Summit, as well as those who consistently contributed to radio and television shows. Additional awards were presented to the article and photo album coordinators of the magazine committee, Entrepreneur and Promotion Day winner and other deserving individuals.Delivering his farewell speech, the outgoing Editor-in-Chief, Gabriel Diemesor, urged board members to remain committed to their duties and to work collectively with the new executives to uphold the Editorial CDS’s legacy. He expressed appreciation for the support he received from the outgoing executives in executing projects and acknowledged the board’s growing presence on social media, television, and radio platforms. He also extended heartfelt gratitude to the Schedule Officer for her guidance and trust in his leadership.His speech was followed by remarks from the newly appointed Editor-in-Chief, Adebayo Sunday Adewoyin. Mr Adebayo expressed gratitude to Mrs. Otemuyiwa on his new appointment and for the opportunity to serve. He commended the outgoing executives for their dedication and successful projects. Pledging to uphold the board’s objectives, he assured members of his commitment to ensuring growth and progress during his tenure. He called for cooperation between the board and the new leadership, encouraging members to contribute innovative ideas to propel the CDS forward.The ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the Welfare Director, Peters Oluwatobiloba, who appreciated both the outgoing and incoming executives, as well as board members, for their patience and participation throughout the event.
The program officially ended with the NYSC anthem, led by the Provost, Mr Adelu Uthman.
The Rotary Club International has conferred its prestigious “Icon of Humanity Service” Award on Chief (Mrs.) Amina Bolupe in recognition of her remarkable contributions to humanity, unwavering dedication to service, and lifelong commitment to making a positive impact in society. The award was presented as part of the 120th-anniversary celebrations of Rotary International.
Speaking at the event, Rotarian Musa Busari, Chairman of the Planning Committee, described Chief (Mrs.) Bolupe as a beacon of hope and a symbol of selflessness, whose relentless efforts to uplift lives resonate with the core values of Rotary International—service, integrity, diversity, and leadership.
“Chief (Mrs.) Amina Bolupe has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to humanitarian service. Through her tireless dedication, she has touched countless lives, fostering positive change in communities. This award is a well-deserved recognition of her invaluable impact,” Rotarian Musa Busari stated.
In addition to the award presentation, the event also witnessed the induction of new members into the Ibadan Rotary Club, with Abolore Muideen Yusuf, an Oyo-born, London-based philanthropist, officially joining the prestigious humanitarian organization.
The ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, Chairman, Local Government Staff Pension Board; Hon. Modiu Opeyemi Akande; Hon. Olayinka Omikunle, lawmakers representing Ibadan South East Constituencies 1 & 2; and Hon. Bamitale Ibrahim, Personal Assistant to the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the PDP.
Rotn. Musa Akere further stated that the event reinforced Rotary International’s commitment to recognizing outstanding individuals who exemplify humanitarian service while continuing its mission of promoting charity, community development, and global goodwill.
Alhaji Muhammed Olatunji Oladejo of the University of Ibadan is a man of many parts.
He is a journalist, a university bureaucrat/administrator, a public affairs commentator, a Yoruba sociocultural exponent and an Ibadan irredentist par excellence. His social capital within and outside the University is immense.
He is a friend of the young and the old alike. He is also very accessible and always ready to help. A personal example will suffice in this regard.
Six years ago, I contacted him about an issue I wanted to resolve at the University of Ibadan. Due to the urgency of the matter, he directed me to come over immediately, and for about two or three consecutive days he personally led me to various offices to find a solution.
Although we were unable to make headway due to extenuating circumstances, he permanently ingrained his name in my heart with the energetic efforts he made during that period.
It was during that same time that I met other young persons thronging his office daily for a similar request or the other.
Without a doubt, Albert Pike surely had Mr Oladejo in mind when he stated: “What we do for ourselves alone dies with us, but what we do for others and the world remains and is immortal”.
Happy birthday, Alhaji Tunji Oladejo and many happy returns.
A LIFE OF PURPOSE AND SERVICE: CELEBRATING 60 YEARS!!!
Today, I celebrate a significant milestone in my life – my 60th birthday. As I reflect on my journey, I am filled with gratitude at the opportunities I have had to serve and make a difference.
My Broadcating Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), Nigerian Tribune, Micade Consultancy Services (an Advertising and Public Relations firm) and The Polytechnic, Ibadan (TPI) years are unforgettable. From my early days as the Acting Secretary General to my tenure as the Public Relations Officer and other core Committees and activities of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), I have been blessed to work with remarkable individuals and organisations. My time at the University of Ibadan, first as the Administrative Officer, Assistant Registrar, Publications Officer/University Editor, University Public Relations Officer, Senior Assistant Registrar/Faculty Officer (Law and Veterinary Medicine, at different times ) and later as the Director of Public Communication, was a highlight of my career.
Now, as the Director of the Ibadan University Press (Publishing House), I am proud to be part of an institution that moves knowledge forward.
I am grateful for my wonderful family, a precious blessing from Allah. What favour from Him could I deny? None! Alhamdulillahi!
As I celebrate this milestone, I am reminded of the importance of living a life of purpose and service. I give thanks to Allah for His blessings and guidance. Here’s to many more years of serving humanity!
The Management of Government College Ibadan has announced the program of activities for the 84th Inter-House Sports competition of the school, scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 19th 2025 at the School Field.
According to the information made available by the Senior School Principal who’s the Host, Mr. S. O Oladokun, stated that the Honourable Commissioner for Education, Professor Salihu Abdulwaheed Adelabu is the Special Guest of Honor, while Engr. Abiola Olajide, an old boy of the school is the Chairman of the 84th Inter -House Sports Competition.
During the competition, the houses, namely Powell house, Field House, Carr House, Grier House and Swansons House will compete against each other in different sports.
The ancient school established in 1929, will clock 96 this year.
The Elders Forum of Environmental Health Officers of Nigeria in collaboration with the Oyo State Chapter of the association headed by Sanitarian Adegoke Tijani on Monday, 10th February 2025 Inaugurated the Disciplinary Committee for the Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State branch.
The Committee consists of 7 members, 6 of which are Rtd Senior Health Officers up to the rank of Heads of Local Government Administration & Director with the current President of the Environmental Health Officers as the 7th person.
The Inauguration which was held at the Local Government Service Commission Staff Training School complex had in attendance the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mojeed Mogbonjubola and his colleague from the Ministry of Education, Prof. Abdulwaheed Adelabu who was ably represented.
It should be on record that with this Environmental Disciplinary Committee, Oyo State remains the only state throughout Nigeria with such a committee, setting the pace for others to follow.
While speaking with Journalists, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Mogbonjubola stated that Oyo State has once again demonstrated leadership by taking the lead in the resuscitation and Inauguration of the committee which will bring professionalism to the work of Environmental Health Officers. “It is only in Oyo State that we have this committee and it will bring value to all Environmental Health Officers in the State, as we expect the best from them”
When asked about the preparedness of the State Government as we await the raining season, the Commissioner Stated that the State Government cleared some waterways, and drainages late last year, and at the same time expanded some bridges. He assured the public that the same activities will be carried out before the commencement of rain to avert disaster, he further admonished the general public to comply with Environmental laws, by not dumping refuse on the median, waterways and other unauthorized places that can lead to environmental disasters.
The Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, Sanitarian Akintomide Akinpelu said that the committee is not set up to witch-hunt any officer, but instead to guidance and correct where necessary. “You know the syndrome of get rich quickly among our youthful population, particularly in Nigeria, though it’s all over the world, which is not good for our profession, so this committee is set up to sanitize our profession to serve as a shining example for other profession. We will do our job with integrity and ensure that there’s no miscarriage of justice, as our main goal is to bring back the lost glory of this profession”
He further stated that the society at large is looking up to Environmental Health Officers when it comes to Environmental Health, and as such there’s is need for the Officers to deliver optimally, as the Disciplinary Committee will be a guiding light for officers.
The President of the Oyo State Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State branch, Sanitarian Adegoke Tijani who’s the only serving officer in active service among the Disciplinary Committee stated that the Committee became necessary so as to uphold sanity and discipline within the profession. “It’s not as if we have officers who are indiscipline, but the purpose of the law is to guide and this committee will be responsible for upholding discipline and promoting professional ethics among our officers”
The following are the names of the disciplinary committee members: 1. Sanitarian Akintomide Akinpelu Rtd. 2. Sanitarian Nathaniel Ajiteru Rtd. 3. Sanitarian Rafiu Iyanda Rtd. 4. Sanitarian Fatona Yemisi Rtd. 5. Sanitarian (Chief Mrs) Moromoke Bikikisu Rtd. 6. Sanitarian (Chief) Oyerinde Rtd. 7. Sanitarian Adegoke Tijani.
Other dignitaries present were Permanent Secretary, LGSC, Mrs Kafilat Adefunke Hamzat; Southwest EHOAN President, Mr Tope Akunwunmi and host of others.
I join the Quareeb Islamic Society in Nigeria and the entire Muslim community in celebrating a remarkable individual, Dr. Fadlu-r-Rahaman Kehinde Tijani, as he marks his 65th birthday. As the National Missioner of Quareeb Islamic Society, Dr. Tijani has dedicated his life to the service of Allah and humanity, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals and communities. An alumnus of the Universities of Ilorin and Ibadan (UI), we belong to the UI 1994 M.A. Communication and Language Arts Class.
Dr. Tijani’s journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment to his faith and his passion for spreading the message of Islam. Through his tireless efforts, he has inspired a generation of Muslims to deepen their understanding of their faith and to live according to its principles. His leadership has been instrumental in promoting Islamic values, fostering unity, and promoting peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
As a scholar and educationist, Dr. Tijani has made significant contributions to Islamic education and research. His writings and teachings have shed light on various aspects of Islam, providing guidance and insight to those seeking to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the faith.
Dr. Tijani’s impact extends beyond the Islamic community. He has been a vocal advocate for peace, justice and human rights, working tirelessly to promote interfaith dialogue and understanding. His commitment to the well-being of all Nigerians, regardless of their faith or background, is a shining example of the values of compassion, empathy and kindness that are at the heart of Islam.
As Dr. Tijani celebrates this milestone birthday, I honour his dedication, leadership and service to humanity. I pray that Allah continues to guide and bless him and that his legacy inspires future generations to follow in his footsteps.
Happy 65th birthday, Sir! Cheers!!!
Tunji Oladejo writes from the University of Ibadan via oladejo65@gmail.com 08077284442
