Category: News

The director-general of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has bemoaned the rate at which skilled young Nigerians are fleeing the country in their pursuit for greener pastures.

Speaking at the 2023 induction for re-elected and elected governors, on Monday, May 15, the former finance minister said young Nigerians will not be keen to relocate abroad if they can thrive in the country.

Stressing that Nigeria will struggle to “develop and prosper” if the youths keep leaving the country, Okonjo-Iweala appealed to the governors to focus on nation-building and invest in the infrastructure and education system of their respective states.

According to her, “With our large numbers of educated people fluent in English – together with a deep network of connections to the diaspora – we are well positioned to seize these opportunities.

But such businesses, like our tech startups, will struggle to thrive if we keep losing so many of our most skilled young people to emigration. Let me share some numbers.

Over 15,000 Nigerians emigrated to Canada in 2021, joining 19,000 who had moved there in the previous two years. Estimates for 2022 are 20,000. That is over 50,000 skilled Nigerians in the space of four years.

In the first half of 2022 alone, the UK granted skilled worker visas to nearly 16,000 Nigerians. Thousands of Nigerian-trained medical doctors work in the USA. The most popular phrase in Nigeria now is “I am going to japa”. I am not telling people not to go, but what I am saying is how many of these japas can we afford? If you japa we want you to “kapa”.

Excellencies you must make your states and all Nigeria a hospitable, encouraging place where young people want to stay and thrive, not leave. Much as we appreciate remittances sent home by these migrants, Nigeria will not develop and prosper if its youthful, tech-savvy population leaves. Without them, our demographic dividend disappears.”

The Management of Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa has disclosed that the institution is one of the fastest growing polytechnics in Nigeria.

This position was made known yesterday during the PRESS Conference held by the Management of the institution as part of the programmes earmarked in commemoration of the maiden convocation of the institution since it gained autonomy.

The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. A.G. Akinteye while giving his opening remark discussed some of his achievements since inception of his administration.

Speaking at a press conference held to usher in the event, Dr. Akinteye said other activities lined up for the week long activities include Environmental Sanitation/ Funfair Day on Wednesday while convocation lecture which would be delivered by Dr Festus Adedayo is fixed for Thursday 18th May.

He stated that since last nine years that Adeseun Ogundoyin Polytechnic, Eruwa gained autonomy, the institution has achieved a lot despite passing through a lot of challenges but has always come out stronger and better. He however highlighted some of the achievements, which include uninterrupted academic calendar in the last three years, prompt processing of semester results, accreditation of more programmes, among others.

He further asserted that the institution has recorded success in area of examination, he claimed that, this year marks the first time that the Institution conducted the first UTME CBT exams after several failed attempts to get accredited in the past.

He also discussed the area of infrastructural development, “we have embarked on some projects that will make our Campus more conducive to learning. One of such is the construction of two 250-seater lecture rooms, which were executed through our Internally Generated Gevenue (IGR). The lecture rooms were commissioned by His Excellency Engr. ’Seyi Makinde, Executive Governor of Oyo State together with other government officials last year December.
Presently, the Institution offers a wide array of ND and HND programmes, including Daily Part-Time (DPT) programmes across four faculties. It is important to state that all of these programmes have been accredited and listed on JAMB’s Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS). Compared to the previous session, in the current 2022/2023 session, we achieved a 26 percent increase in the enrolment of students for ND, HND, and DPT programmes, an attestation to the fact that our Institution is becoming more attractive to an increasing number of students.

“In addition to academics, the Institution is also notable for its commitment to the physical, mental, and emotional development of our students through co-curricular activities, including sports. The Institution participates in NIPOGA, a biennial sporting event involving all accredited polytechnics and colleges of technology in Nigeria, and has won several medals. We are poised to improving our sports facilities as time goes by.

“There is also the Skill Acquisition Centre where we equip students with viable skills such as fashion designing/tailoring, bricklaying, hair making, among others. These are skills that will set them up to be more independent and employers of labour rather than job seekers. The reality is that Vocational Education and Training has witnessed a huge upsurge in developed countries of the world. This is as it opens doors to a limitless array of careers”.

When asked about how he was able to record some of the highlighted achievements despite the fact that the tertiary institutions in Oyo State have been placed under the supervision of a Consultant, he said the Management has been able to manage the Consultant very well and that has resulted to peace and tranquillity currently enjoyed in the institution.

Among those who attended the Press Conference were the Rector himself, Dr. A.G. Akinteye, Deputy Rector, Mr. Asimiyu Oladeji, Registrar, Mr. Dele Oladipo, Mr. Segun Oladipo among others.

Police in Ogun state on May 10 arrested four staff of ZEFA Microfinance Bank, situated at Abule Ijoko Lemode area of Ifo local government, over the d€ath of 50 year old Vivian Omo, a wife to one of their debtors.

A statement from the spokesperson of the command, SP Abimbola Oyeyemi, says trouble started when the bank staffers visted the home of the deceased to ask for the payment of loan taken from the bank by the deceased’s husband but they were told that the man was not at home.

‘’Not satisfied with the woman’s explanation about the whereabout of her husband, the bank staffs decided to pack all the electronics in the house to their office the step that was resisted by the deceased. While the deceased was struggling with the Bank’s staffs, one of them pushed her and she fell down and was unconscious.

She was there and then rushed to hospital for medical attention, but was confirmed d€ad by the doctor on duty.”

Oyeyemi said the report was quickly lodged at Agbado divisional headquarters by the daughter of the deceased.

‘’Consequence upon which the DPO Agbado division, CSP Awoniyi Adekunle, quickly led his detectives to the scene where four staff of the bank namely: Badmus Olalekan, Ajibade Oludare, Eniola Aduragbemi and Femi Oloko were arrested.”

He said the corpse has been deposited at Ifo General Hospital morgue for autopsy.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olanrewaju Oladimeji, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspects to Homicide section of the state Criminal Investigation Departments for further investigation. He also warned loan agencies to stop taking laws into their hands in the process of recovering loan from their debtors, as anyone caught in such act will be arrested and prosecuted.

The House of Oduduwa under the chairmanship of The Ooni Of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Olofin uAdimula, Ooni Babatunde Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, leads the sons and daughters of Oduduwa in Nigeria and in diaspora to congratulate a remarkable ideological statesman and Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, as he clocks 97th on the planet earth.

As the Natural Head of the Oduduwa race globally, the Ooni pays tributes to a man whose unwavering commitment and visionary leadership have left an indelible mark on the political landscape of Nigeria, particularly in terms of ideology. Pa Fasoranti, a revered Yoruba leader, has dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, equality, and progress for our great nation.

Throughout his distinguished career, Pa Fasoranti has been a beacon of hope, an astute of sacrifice particularly when he sacrificed the Gubernatorial ticket of Ondo State thereby distinguishing him as an epitome of selflessness.

Pa Fasoranti has fearlessly championed the cause of the Yoruba people and the larger Oodua race, while tirelessly advocating for unity and oneness of Nigeria. His deep understanding of the complexities of our nation’s political fabric has guided his efforts in fostering a more inclusive society, one that embraces diversity and values the richness of our cultural heritage.

One of Pa Fasoranti’s most significant contributions lies in his unwavering commitment to ideological and community development. He has been a staunch advocate for a progressive and equitable Nigeria, rooted in the principles of democracy, justice, and good governance. His steadfast belief in the power of ideas and the need for a clear ideological framework has inspired countless individuals to engage in meaningful political discourse and work towards a better future for our country.

Baba, your exemplary leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Yoruba political landscape. Through his guidance and mentorship, he has nurtured a new generation of leaders who share his passion for nation-building and the pursuit of a just society. His commitment to empowering the youth and fostering their political participation has paved the way for a more inclusive and dynamic political environment.

Beyond his role as a political leader, Pa Fasoranti has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the well-being and progress of his people. His philanthropic endeavors have touched the lives of many, providing educational opportunities, healthcare facilities, and economic empowerment to those in need. His selflessness and dedication to the betterment of society will always serve as a shining example for all Nigerians.

Today, as we celebrate Pa Fasoranti’s 97th birthday, let us reflect on the immense sacrifices and contributions he has made to our nation’s political landscape. Let us be inspired by his unwavering belief in the power of ideology, the importance of unity, and the pursuit of justice.

May his legacy serve as a guiding light for future generations, reminding us of the transformative potential within each of us to shape a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria.

Baba! Your wisdom, vision, and tireless dedication to the ideals of justice and progress will forever be cherished and remembered. May you be blessed with good health, happiness, and continued strength as you inspire us all to strive for a more united Oduduwa race and a better Nigeria.

Happy 97th birthday, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, the Leader of Afenifere!!!

Igba odun odun kan o!

Afon a gbo ko to wo!!

Operatives of the Ondo State Security Network codenamed Amotekun Corps, have apprehended two suspected criminals pretending as mad men in Ondo State to perpetrate crimes.

The State Commandant of Amotekun, Chief Adetunji Adeleye, stated this in Akure while parading 26 suspected kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminals.

According to Chief Adeleye, the two madmen who had been constituting security risk and nuisance, were arrested with expensive handsets, while one of the madmen, Ojo Akintunde hacked a Landlord to death at Idanre last week.

The Amotekun Boss, who advised the public to be wary of those that pretend to be mad people, however, said one of the madmen hacked his landlord to death and started behaving like a mad man.

Chief Adeleye also revealed that a gang of kidnappers, that killed their victims that came from Ogun State were also arrested with the collaboration from Ogun Amotekun and also located the family of the victim.

Angry mob, in the early hours of Tuesday, set ablaze two yet-to-be-identified individuals who were said to be suspected armed robbers, at Popo bridge, Oke Ado area of Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

Some eyewitnesses who spoke with our correspondent at the scene of the incident, described it as unfortunate, adding that the suspects were nabbed after snatching a motorcycle from the owner in the area. 

“We heard the voice of someone seeking help and we rushed out and saw him bleeding from the side of his neck. We could hear him aloud saying he is under attack, help me pls,” an eyewitness told our reporter.

Another eyewitness, who also sought anonymity, disclosed that “The man told us they forcefully took his bike and snapped his neck with cutlass. The man said they already took the bike from me but they didn’t stop at that. They also wanted to take my phone which made me stand the ground and hold one of them right and call on people to come to my rescue.

“We immediately arranged for him to be taken to the hospital while we screamed for help from people in the neighborhood “.

“We chased them, they ran inside the bridge and we apprehended the two of them in the long run”.

The Arole Oduduwa, Ooni of Ife; Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II (CFR) has made an appeal to all Nigerian across the country regardless of their party affiliation to sheath their swords and work together with the President-Elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the progress of Nigeria.

Ooni Adeyeye made this call in Lagos while hosting a high delegation sent by Kenyan President His Excellency; William Ruto headed by Kenya’s Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Francis Koskie also Chairman Dangote Groups Alhaji Aliko Dangote, CEO of Propetrol Harry Ebohen, Governor of Ogun State; Prince Dapo Abiodun and Fintech Guru Kunmi Demuren who met with the president Elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at his Lagos residence where series of discussion was held on how Africa can synergize to bring about national development; creating a platform for prosperity through African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) while creating an innovative future for our young people.

Ooni said; ‘Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy, most populous nation, and a political powerhouse. During my last visit, the Kenyan President assured me of his government’s unwavering determination to improve its nations’ and businesses’ footprints in Nigeria. Africa is the world’s engine, and we must remodel its priceless natural resources and safeguard its age-old wealth for our progress.

After the meeting with the Kenyan Government representatives and Nigeria’s business communities, Asiwaju Tinubu also showed his readiness to partner with other business leaders in his quest to transform Nigeria’s economy and also transit Nigeria from a consuming dependent economy to producing economy. Making recourse to Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s $20Billion Refinery which is set to commence operation fully by the end of the month. Asiwaju also committed his readiness to partner with East Africa most especially Kenya by creating a more robust partnership; rejigging its long relationship which will help both governments grow astronomically in trade, cultural exchange and intergovernmental development.

Ooni also averred that as the country transitions to a new government, it’s best for all hands to be on deck regardless of candidate choice and party affiliations as the election has gone and governance and putting Nigeria on the right path to greatness should be a collective effort. “As the presidential inauguration approaches, I beseech you all, young and old, Obidients and Atikulates, hopeful and weary, amiable and passionate, to lay down your arms. There is no reason to waste time looking back; all we have is today and the future. Now is the time to embrace our diversity and uniqueness. We may differ in opinions and approaches to achieving a better Nigeria, but we all want a nation we can be proud of. Let us come together to support the vision of Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua.’

Determined to host a world-class National Sports Festival in 2024, the Ogun State Government and the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development have signed a Memorandum of Understanding.

In his remarks after the signing of the MoU at the Governor’s Office, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta, on Saturday, Governor Dapo Abiodun informed the Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Sunday Dare, that Ogun is noted for recording many firsts and the hosting of the competition would not be an exception.

“Ogun State indigenes have invested in sports development in Nigeria. Apart from that we have eminent sports men and women who have distinguished themselves and brought glory to this country. We are ready to host a world-class festival next year. We have capable hands and sponsors that are ready to support us.

“I want to assure you that we will live up to expectations as reflected in the MoU. I can assure you that we will not disappoint you.

“I want to assure you that like you have said to me that the one in Edo was a very good showing, the one in Delta was better than the one in Edo, the one in Ogun will be the best. We will immediately move to set up a Local Organizing Committee,” the governor stated.

He explained that the National Sports Festival was developed to promote unity and cohesion among the youths, observing that Ogun as a state with a huge number of youths due to the large number of education institutions, his administration has developed strategies to gainfully engage them through sports and other relevant activities.

“Sports is a tool to teach our youth leadership skills development, discipline, team work and self confidence. When youth are busy through sports engagements, they won’t have time for social vices. Some of them have developed into world beaters and we will continue to encourage them”, Abiodun added

The governor recalled how the state performed very well in the last edition of the Festival by hauling 70 medals, appreciating the Minister and the Federal Ministry of Sports for supporting the state at the bidding stage.

He, however, assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure a successful sports festival next year.

In his response, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, said the choice of Ogun State as the next host was due to its culture of sports development, availability of sporting infrastructure and potentials to host a befitting festival that would linger for a long time.

He said the state was blessed with prominent sports men and women who have made the country proud, expressing confidence that its performance as the host of the next edition would surpass the last two editions.

While calling on the state to commence preparation as soon as possible, the Minister assured the corporate bodies that are ready to sponsor the competition handsome incentives in terms of tax holidays among others.

In a statement, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said the accident took place around the Saapade – Ogere axis of the road on Saturday evening.

Five persons – four male adults and one female adult – were involved in the crash, FRSC spokesperson in Ogun, Florence Okpe, said. Two persons were also injured in the incident.

“The suspected cause of the crash was excessive speed which led to losing of control on the part of the Toyota car rammed into the moving truck from the rear,” she said.

Okpe expressed sadness that three other persons died in the crash.

On the cause of the accident, the FRSC spokesman stated that a speeding Toyota car marked KSF122, had rammed into a Sino truck registered FZE840G.
The injured victims have since been conveyed to the Victory Hospital in Ogere, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited at FOS Morgue, Ipara, all in Ogun.

Meanwhile, the Sector Commander of the FRSC in Ogun, Ahmed Umar has sympathised with the families of the victims.

He emphasised the dangers of speeding, especially during rainy seasons when visibility is always poor, advising motorists to drive defensively and obey traffic rules and regulations.