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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.

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Minister, DG NBS, Dons, Others Advocate Data-Driven Policy Making At NAMM Conference In Ibadan

The recently held international conference of National Association of Macroeconomic Modellers NAMM offered a myriad of ideas on the best possible way to revive Nigerian economy as experts, policymakers, academicians and other stakeholders renewed the call for evidence-based research and data-driven policy making as only effective way of resuscitating Nigerian economy.

The call for evidence-based policy making was made known at the recently concluded 2-day conference of National Association of Macroeconomic Modellers which began on Wednesday 27th-28th of November, 2024.

The conference has the theme: ‘’Macroeconomic Modelling and Data Science for Economic Development’’.

In his opening speech, the President of NAMM, Prof. Philip Alege, said employing advanced analytical tools was key in understanding and resolving the Nigerian economic situation and that there is need for collaboration between researchers and government parastatals to be able to make effective policies for socioeconomic development of Nigeria.

The chairman of the occasion, Prof. Akin Iwayemi, affirmed that data and models are integral part of socioeconomic development and that concerted efforts must be made by all policymakers to ensure that every decision made is supported with evidence-based research.

Consequently, the Federal Government has vowed to prioritize evidence based research and data-driven policies to unlock economic potentials of Nigeria.

The Federal Government disclosed this through the Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu who was represented by the Chief Planning Officer, Macroeconomic Analysis Department, Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs. Ijeoma Ofiah.

The minister, who was one of the guest speakers, said the federal government recognised the importance of reliable and timely data, flexibility in models, and close collaboration with stakeholders.

Bagudu said the government was committed to addressing the challenges hindering the optimal application of reliable models, including limited data quality, technical capacity gaps, and funding constraints.

The minister said: ‘’We’re also leveraging the Integrated Planning and Reporting Toolkit (IPRT) to align our national development plans with the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063. The Medium-Term Fiscal Framework (MTFF) remains a cornerstone of our fiscal management strategy, prioritizing fiscal sustainability and discipline.

‘’As we move forward, we recognise the importance of reliable and timely data, flexibility in our models, and close collaboration with stakeholders. We are committed to addressing the challenges hindering the optimal application of reliable models, including limited data quality, technical capacity gaps, and funding constraints.

‘’In conclusion, the effective application of economic models is crucial to evidence-based policy-making. By harnessing the power of these tools and fostering strong collaborations, we can unlock Nigeria’s full economic potential’’.

Other scholars and experts present stressed the need for adequate funding for evidence based research and the development of data driven policies to rescue Nigeria’s economy from doldrums.

Among those who graced the conference were the Statistian-General of the Federation, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, who was represented by Dr. Ayo Anthony; Prof. Chris Kalu of Nnamidi Azikiwe University, Prof. Afees Salisu of the Centre for Econometrics and Applied Research [CEAR], President of Nigerian Economic Society NES, Professor Adeola Adenikinju, Dr. Seedwell Hove of the African Development Bank, Dr. Princess Nwankwo of the Centre for Petroleum, Energy Economics and Law of UI, Prof. Olusanya Olubusoye and a host of others.

The conference was concluded yesterday after a technical paper presentation by researchers followed by a vote of thanks by the Vice President of NAMM, Professor Olusanya Olubusoye.

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Drama in Senate as FG officials defend Tinubu’s tax reform bills

Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele has said Nigeria still uses the stamp duty law of 1939.

He stated this at a session with the Senate to discuss the tax reform bills.

He said, “Many of the laws we have today, we inherited from our colonial masters. For example, the Stamp Duty Law is a law of 1939. In 1939, the world had not envisaged that there would be the Internet. Trying to apply a law of 1939 in 2024 does not show that we are a people that are ready for the next generation.”

Oyedele explained that there is a need to write new tax laws as the old ones no longer apply in 2024.

“Because of this, we decided that instead of amending our old laws that we inherited from our colonial masters, why don’t we write new ones for ourselves. This has been done in many countries across the world,” Oyedele stated.

He also said that the committee is trying to harmonise many taxes into fewer high-revenue-yielding ones.

“This is what led to us trying to harmonise so many taxes we have in Nigeria into a few high-revenue broad-based taxes and eliminate those taxes that impose a burden on our poorest people and small businesses so they can have the opportunity to thrive.

“It is when our people are prosperous, that they will have the ability to pay taxes. Our findings reveal that the fiscal system we have today inhibits growth in my private sector experience before my current role, I was involved for over a decade in looking at tax systems in more than 180 countries worldwide and I can tell with all forms of responsibility, Nigeria’s tax system is one of the most backward in the world.

“This cannot help us with our vision of a great country, which is what we desire and truly deserve. We also found out that the Government can do much better in terms of the priority and quality of spending as well as how we borrow in addition to issues around harmonisation of taxes,” he said.

It would be recalled that Oyedele is leading the charge for the controversial proposed Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform Bill as President Tinubu had in October sent the tax reform bill, which he said aligns with ongoing financial reforms of the Federal Government to the National Assembly.

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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.

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Ogun Wages War Against Fake Mobile Advertisers, Imposes N5m Fine On Permit Offenders

The Ogun State Signage and Advertising Agency has placed a fine of N5 million on anyone caught with fake mobile advert permits in the state.

The agency’s General Manager, Mr Fola Onifade, disclosed this at the unveiling of the 2025 mobile advert permit for the state held at the agency’s office in Abeokuta, the state capital on Wednesday.

Onifade said that just like Oyo and Lagos states, Ogun has also migrated from the printed stickers for the mobile advert permit to e-stickers, saying that this has greatly helped to reduce the incidence of counterfeiting and other activities aimed at sabotaging and shortchanging the government.

He said, “The emergence of e-stickers has greatly reduced the incidence of counterfeiting and the activities of the miscreants. We have been able to reduce the incidence of fake stickers and where this occurred, we were able to identify and deal with it immediately.

“Another challenge that we have also been able to overcome is getting stickers from other states. Some people bring stickers from other states to come and market here. We are ready to cooperate with states that have similar rates to our own but where there is a great discrepancy, we will feel that such effort is directed at swindling the state. We won’t allow it.

“Our rate is N13,500; some states charge as low as N6,500. It would be unfair to allow them to come and sell such in the state. We are ready to cooperate with states that charge similar rates like ours.”

For those who have perfected the act of faking these stickers, Onifade said, “Let me assure you that all hands are on the deck that you don’t succeed in this act of sabotage. The officers of the agency will be all out to check these sabotaging acts and ensure that such people are arrested and punished.

“In addition to daily enforcements, the agency will also carry out unannounced quarterly enforcement and anybody found wanting for non-compliance would be seriously sanctioned. The fine is N100,000, and when a fake sticker is found on your vehicle, the fine is N5m.”

Onifade pleaded for the cooperation and support of the companies and partners working with the agency to record another success story for the 2025 mobile advert permits.

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Some People Want Me Dead, Says Ex-President Obasanjo

Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has said he’s hale and hearty even though some people want him to die, News360 Nigeria reports.

Speaking in Osogbo during the inauguration of the Old-Garage/Oke-Fia Road reconstructed by Governor Ademola Adeleke, Obasanjo said those who wanted him dead were spreading rumour of his death in the social media.

He said “I heard the rumour that I was dead. I saw it in the social media. I quickly told my children and my relations that it was not true and that I’m alive. Those that want me dead, that is their wish but God still keeps me alive.”

Obasanjo lauded Adeleke for his performance in Osun and charged the governor to keep up the work.

On his part, Adeleke assured the people of the state that his administration would complete all the ongoing projects.

“My dear people of Osun state, our administration has constructed over 120 kilometers of roads across the state. Two major flyovers are also progressing to completion at Osogbo while works are progressing at the Ile Ife Flyover and Ilesa dualisation.

“I have redirected our efforts and plan at the completion of Iwo-Osogbo road. We have added the dualisation of Odoori – Adeeke Road inside Iwo to be executed in two phases. The first phase will reach Post -Office and Oluwo Palace while the second phase will take off from Post Office to Adeeke Junction.

“I want our people to note for the record that for all our projects and programmes, we did not obtain any loan. We only block leakages in the state finance and employ local content to moderate project cost and enforce high standards.

“For the second half of our government, I reassure all sons and daughters of Osun State that the government under my leadership will complete all ongoing projects. We will continue to address the infra and social needs of our people. We will strike a balance between hard and soft infrastructure.”

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T-Pain is Temporary, Not Tinubu-Pain, Says Doyin Okupe on Arise TV

Dr. Doyin Okupe, former Presidential Adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has clarified the meaning behind the trending nickname “T-Pain,” often associated with President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, Okupe explained that the term does not signify “Tinubu-Pain” but rather symbolizes “Temporary Pain,” referring to the economic and structural reforms under the current administration.

“There is a reform that is going on, and with reforms, there must be temporary pain. If there is no pain, there is no gain,” Okupe said during the interview.

His comments come amidst widespread public criticism of the economic challenges Nigerians are facing, including subsidy removal, rising inflation, and increasing cost of living. While some have humorously coined “T-Pain” to reflect the hardships attributed to Tinubu’s policies, Okupe insists the struggles are part of a broader effort to restructure and stabilize the economy for long-term benefits.

Okupe’s remarks on Arise TV underline the government’s expectation that Nigerians endure short-term discomfort for future prosperity, a message that has sparked mixed reactions across the country.

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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.

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Tinubu’ll end insecurity in Southeast –FG

The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s resolve to eradicate insecurity in the Southeast and across Nigeria.

Speaking during an operational visit to Enugu, Badaru emphasized that a secure environment is essential for fostering business growth and societal peace, underscoring the administration’s focus on addressing the region’s security challenges.

“There is a renewed determination to intensify our efforts against all forms of insecurity under President Tinubu’s leadership,” Badaru stated in a press release issued by the Ministry’s spokesman, Henshaw Ogbuike, on Saturday.

The Defence Minister urged military personnel to ramp up their operations in combating insecurity in the Southeast. He highlighted the administration’s significant progress over the past year in addressing nationwide security threats, pledging a continued commitment to achieving peace.

While in Imo State, Badaru met with Governor Hope Uzodimma to acknowledge his support for military operations in the region. “We are determined to end insecurity in Nigeria,” the Minister assured.

Badaru’s visit coincides with the arrest of Simon Ekpa, a self-acclaimed Prime Minister of Biafra, in Finland on terrorism-related charges. Ekpa has been accused of orchestrating violence in the Southeast, including enforcing sit-at-home orders and coordinating activities of unknown gunmen.

The Federal Government views Ekpa’s arrest as a step towards dismantling the roots of terrorism in the region and restoring stability to affected areas.

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