In a significant move to foster business development and economic growth, ExperTrait Consulting and Management Ltd has announced the launch of its Pro Bono Consulting Initiative. This initiative, which coincides with the company’s 7th anniversary, reaffirms ExperTrait’s commitment to empowering mission-driven organizations and strengthening the economic fabric of Nigeria and beyond.
With a well-earned reputation for excellence in strategic consulting, ExperTrait will provide free expert advisory services to selected non-profits, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and government-led initiatives that require professional support but lack the financial resources to access high-level consulting services.
According to Olatunbosun Onaopemipo Olalekan, the Principal Consultant of ExperTrait Consulting and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, Nigeria, the initiative is a reflection of the company’s long-standing dedication to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable business growth.
“At ExperTrait, we recognize the challenges faced by mission-driven organizations and emerging businesses. Over the years, we have built a track record of transforming businesses and shaping leaders. This initiative is our way of giving back, ensuring that more organizations have access to the strategic insights, governance frameworks, and financial planning tools necessary for long-term success,” Olalekan stated.
The company has been a key player in driving innovation and business sustainability, working across various industries to provide cutting-edge solutions in business development, corporate governance, marketing, financial planning, and digital transformation. Through this initiative, ExperTrait continues to extend its impact, reinforcing its status as a trailblazer in the consulting space.
To ensure effective resource allocation, ExperTrait will select a maximum of five (5) beneficiaries per quarter, prioritizing organizations with high-impact potential and a strong commitment to social and economic development.
As ExperTrait Consulting marks seven years of excellence, innovation, and transformative impact, this initiative further cements its legacy as a consulting firm dedicated not just to profit, but to purpose-driven growth.
Interested organizations can apply by reaching out via the company’s official communication channels or email csr@expertraitconsulting.com.
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.
On December 7th, 2024, VerionX held its highly anticipated launch event at 362 Herbert Macaulay Way, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria, introducing its innovative career platform to the public.
The event hosted VerionX’s Founder Elijah Moses, COO Mr. Boluwatife Awofadeju, CEO Miss Daniella Eze, and key figures from Dhavelles’s Academy, AXO Genesis, Parallex Media,Jordan 105.5 FM Entrepreneurship Radio, Lagos, DAVisuals, and Unicorn Group. Around 70-80 attendees, including investors and potential users, witnessed the milestone.
VerionX aims to bridge gaps in education and employment across Africa. Guided by its mission to empower professionals, the platform provides tools to enhance skills, access jobs, and advance careers. It caters to students, job seekers, and career switchers, offering personality-based tests, AI-driven CV creation tools, and tailored career solutions. VerionX’s commitment to impact is already evident, with robust onboarding systems and ambitious plans to onboard 500,000 users in six months and 1,000,000 users in a year.
Attendees experienced insightful speeches, team introductions by the Founder Elijah Moses, and a live demo presentation by the COO, showcasing the platform’s user-friendly features and seamless onboarding process via www.verionx.com.
A lively Q&A addressed platform benefits, reasonable service pricing, and plans to reach a million users annually. Attendees left inspired by VerionX’s transformative vision of equipping Africans to learn, work, and earn.
Potential subscribers, investors, and partners can reach out via the website www.verionx.com, email verionxtechnology@gmail.com, or VerionX’s social media platforms:
The stakeholders in Oja Agbe, Fiditi, Baba-ode( Akinmorin), Isale Alawe (Awe), Isale Osun and Okediji (Ilora) communities in Afijio Local Government Area of Oyo state have reached an official agreement on Saturday, December 7, 2024 to put a total end to female genital mutilation in their domains.
This was the major highlight of the grand-finale of consensus building with Oyo state government community leaders and law enforcement agencies in Afijio Local Government as regards war against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).
Speaking at Jobele Secretariat, the Headquarter of Afijio Local Government, venue of the programme, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Center for Comprehensive promotion of Reproductive Health, Mr Oluwole Emmanuel Yelotan, said the programme which had begun since few months ago was set up to ensure that the practice of female genital cutting is gotten rid of in the society.
Mr Yelotan, who stated that the programme of eradication of Female Genital Mutilation in the prominent communities in Afijio Local Government started with a stage of dialogue and sensitization, expressed satisfaction that the programme reached an agreement stage among the community stakeholders.
While lauding the leaders of the five communities in Afijio Local Government, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Center for Comprehensive promotion of Reproductive Health, however, reminded the community leaders that, it is now a criminal offence for anyone to engage in female genital mutilation in their domains.
According to him, female genital cutting now attracts six month imprisonment, saying both the parents who took their girl child for genital cutting and the person that helped them with the genital cutting would henceforth face the wrath of justice, as stipulated in the laws of Oyo state.
Also speaking, one the facilitators of the programme and a member of Peace Wonderful Women of Impact International, Pastor Christianah Omonike Aderibigbe, thanked the stakeholders of communities in Afijio Local Government for their cooperation to ensure the success of the programme.
Mrs Aderibigbe noted that as signposts signifying an end to Female Genital Mutilation have been mounted in all the areas in Afijio Local Government of Oyo state, there is no more excuse for cutting girl child genitals in the Local Government.
In her reactions at the event, the Sexual and Reproductive Health Officer/FGM Coordinator, Oyo state Primary Health Care Board, Mrs Bilikisu Olawoyin appreciated the community leaders’ perseverance during the programme.
Mrs Olawoyin also urged them to comply with the agreement reached on exterminating Female Genital Mutilation, saying Afijio Local Government should lead by example in Oyo state and Nigeria as a whole in putting an end to cutting the genitals of a girl child.
While thanking the Oyo state government and their co-organizers of the programme, the community leaders, among whom were; Chief Bamiji Faremi, the Otun Oniware of Iwareland and Chief Mrs Rachael Adefunmike, the Iyalode of Fiditiland, described the programme as an eye-opening event.
They also promised to go and disclose what they learnt during the programme to the people in their communities by educating them on the dangers of Female Genital Mutilation.
Parts of the highlights of the event were; issuance of certificates on eradication of Female Genital Mutilation to community leaders and community leaders’ signing of agreement with security agencies to wage war against Female genital cutting.
At the event to witness the epoch-making programme organized by Peace Wonderful Women of Impact International in collaboration with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Oyo State Government as well as Center for Comprehensive Promotion of Reproductive Health were; health officials, security operatives and pressmen.
The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), an Islamic human rights organisation, has said economists and finance experts should be the ones talking about the Tax Reform Bills which are before the Senate.
The Executive Director, MURIC, Ishaq Akintola, said this as videos of northern Islamic clerics preaching against the bills trend on social media.
The bills, which have passed second reading in the Senate, are the Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024 -SB.583; The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) BILL, 2024- SB.584; The Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024-SB.585; and the Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 – SB.586.
Some northern leaders have been opposed to the bills which will see individuals earning below one million naira per annum exempted from tax.
One such leader is Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State who said findings revealed that only Lagos and Rivers will benefit from the reforms to the detriment of the north.
At the second reading, the Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, faulted the speedy passage enjoyed by the bills.
Videos showing his opposition to the bills have since gone viral on social media, inspiring preaching by northern Islamic clerics against the reforms.
In one of the videos, a cleric delivering a sermon on the Voice of Sunnah platform said the reform will see President Bola Tinubu personally getting 10 out of 40 bowls of rice harvested by farmers.
When our correspondent contacted Akintola for his opinion on the criticisms of the bills by clerics, the MURIC leader said most people speaking about the bills are ignorant.
He said, “Few people understand what is involved. Unfortunately, I happen to be one of those who do not understand what is involved in the tax reform bills.
Ibadan Indigenes within and outside the city have mobilized support and solidarity for Alh. Taye Adebisi Currency for being a proud ambassador of the city as he is to be honoured with Most Outstanding Ibadan Musician Award this month.Leading the campaign is an association of Ibadan Indigenes in the communication business, Ibadan Mega Voice, with the slogan, Ibadan first.
Ibadan Mega Voice is an association of Ibadan Indigenes in the communication business, covering Print, Electronic and Online media, Public Relations, Advertising, Theatre, Music, Printing and Publishing. It has over 50 members and their door still open to interested individuals. iMV paid a visit to Alh. Taye Currency in his Oluyole Estate residence in Ibadan recently.
Speaking at the engagement on behalf of Ibadan Mega Voice was its President, Aare Kola Olomide, who assured the Fuji musician of the support of the people of Ibadanland at all times, stressing that no matter the situation the city would remain behind him.Aare Olomide submitted that IMV would preach and promote peace in the city, state and country at large, and most specifically in the house of Fuji, “however, Taye Currency remains our pride”.The President of Ibadan Mega Voice who led Olusina Olabode Omo Iya Shina, Saheed Alatise Oba Irawo, Peter Olasupo Captain P2, Alh. Quadri Ajanasi, Bukola Hazmat Benny, Olamide Adeniyi and Alh Fasasi Ismail on the visit disclosed that the association has concluded all arrangements to decorate Taye Currency as the Most Outstanding Musician of Ibadanland in recognition of his undying love and commitment to Ibadan.
The decorations of Alh Taye Currency is scheduled for the Grand Finale of the Second Anniversary Celebrations of Ibadan Mega Voice on Sunday 24th November at Ibadan House Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
Different activities have been lined for the celebrations by Ibadan Mega Voice, these include Keep Ibadan Clean Campaign from Beere to Molete, Free Medical Outreach at New Gbagi Market, Donation to Charity Homes, Sports Competition, Free Digital Marketing Skills Training and Grand Finale.Responding, the elated Fuji musician expressed profound appreciation for the wonderful show of love demonstrated at this time, promising to continue to be a good ambassador of Ibadan at all times.He also pledged his desire to do all within his capacity to support Ibadan Mega Voice.Alh Taye Currency gladly accepted to personally receive the award and showcase it to the whole world.
Show me a man diligent in his work. Tell him he will stand before kings and nobles not mean, mundane men. And so it is that Dr Sunday Omoniyi Obiyinka, Chairman/CEO, Extension Publications Limited, continues to rub shoulders with the kings, the nobles, the high and the mighty, locally, internationally, because of his remarkable diligence and unmatched commitment to the profession he is passionate about; book publishing. His journey into book publishing started with Onibonoje Publishers and Book Industries (Nig) Ltd., a foremost indigenous publisher in Nigeria, where he worked meritoriously between 1996 and 2001 after which he birthed his own publishing firm, Extension Publications Ltd in 2004. Between 2004 and now, Dr Sunday Obiyinka has built Extension Publications to become a global brand, a multi-billion naira company and one of the most reputable publishing firms in Nigeria.Extension Publications Limited’s phenomenal rise did not happen by accident. It is a result of sheer grit, uncommon business acumen and par-excellent managerial and administrative ability exhibited by the founder and promoter, Dr Obiyinka.
Dr Sunday Omoniyi Obiyinka attended Onireke Grammar School, Ibadan, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate. He proceeded to University of Ilorin to obtain Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry/Education. His thirst for knowledge led him to acquire his Masters Degree from the University of Ibadan’s Faculty of Education in Library and Archival Studies. Dr Obiyinka absorbed himself fully into the art and practice of book publishing as he continues to restlessly learn and sharpen his skills, opening new frontiers in book packaging and production to ensure that books get into the hands of young readers. This passion for book publishing pushed him to enroll for PhD in Publishing and Copyright Studies at the prestigious University of Ibadan. At the end of the gruelling PhD academic journey at the premier university, Dr Obiyinka bagged PhD in Publishing and Copyright Studies, the first to hold the peak of academic degrees in that discipline not only in University of Ibadan but also in Nigeria. Professor Andrew Okwilagwe who was the first to hold PhD in Publishing and Copyright Studies got his from Stirling University, Scotland, United Kingdom.
To further sharpen his managerial and administrative skills, Dr Obiyinka earlier enrolled at the Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru near Jos, where he underwent rigorous training for a whole year to bag Membership of the National Institute (MNI).In recognition of his immense contributions to the growth and development of Ibadan as a major employer of labour, a shrewd manager of men and resources, having his business headquarters in Ibadan, and a fervent contributor to philanthropy, Dr Sunday Obiyinka was conferred with the title of Jagun Agbaoye of Ibadanland by the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, Aje Ogungunniso I.Dr Obiyinka is seeking to lead Nigerian Publishers Association (NPA), the trade and professional association of publishers in Nigeria for a new tenure in an election coming up towards the end of November, 2024. NPA was established in 1965 and the association has been a rallying point for publishers of hard books, digital books and journals. NPA engenders a forum for book publishers to put heads together and discuss issues that have to do with book publishing industry. Book publishing industry holds an indispensable position in the education sector in Nigeria and this makes book publishers valuable stakeholders in educational matters affecting the country. By implication, an Association like NPA is too important to the success of education in Nigeria to be left in the hands of charlatans. This is the same organisation Dr Obiyinka seeks to lead, bringing his wealth of experience as an all-rounder book publisher, who started Extension Publications Limited from the scratch and deployed his sterling managerial and administrative acumen to build Extension Publications Limited into, unarguably, one of the most reputable book publishing firms in Nigeria, as a dogged scholar and practitioner in the field of Publishing and Copyright Studies and an innovative leader of men and materials.Electing Dr Obiyinka to steer the ship of NPA for a new tenure will augur well for the Association and its members. His election will place him among the few who built a book publishing firm from the scratch and were opportune to lead NPA. Dr Obiyinka already has his job as NPA President well cut out for him because of his intense understanding of the issues, challenges and prospects in book publishing.
He will ensure that the rights of the individual and collective members of NPA are protected and will give small and medium publishers opportunity to thrive in the industry while ensuring that large-scale publishing firms are assisted to stay afloat. As a passionate believer in education and knowledge acquisition, one of Dr Obiyinka’s cardinal agenda is to enhance good reading culture among youths in Nigeria as this is what will improve book output and sales. He has many impressive programs up his sleeves in his aim to take NPA higher than where it currently is. He is going to build on the successes of his predecessors and rejuvenate the Association for better performances for the benefits of members, education sector and Nigeria.
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
“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” —Marcel Proust
Yes, you made us happy and you made our souls blossom.
That this year 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival has come and ended in glory is enough reason to show gratitude to God almighty and everyone who has participated and, or contributed to the success story. You are all the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.
To His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS and the First Lady, Engineer Olufunke Tamunominini Makinde who was conferred with the Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland, MOWI and His Excellency , the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal, who was also conferred with the Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland, MOFI during the Grand Finale at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium has become a landmark history making in any Ibadan Cultural Festival anniversary ever experienced. To God be the glory.
To our Kabiyesi, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin 1 , and the Olubadan -in – Council, the Iyalode in Council, the Mogajis, Baales and all the Senior Chiefs, we thank you all.
Particular mention must be made of His Excellency, the Former Governor of Oyo State and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja whose sponsorship of some of our programs as well as his physical attendance and participation at this year’s festival was highly remarkable. K’eepe O Baba To Her Excellency, wife of the former Governor, Chief Mrs Olayinka Mutiat Ladoja, Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture and Special Guest of Honour of the events whose singular efforts contributed immensely to the success story of this year’s celebration, I will forever remain grateful and on behalf of us all, I say Thank you Ma. A yoo maa ri yin ba O. Ase To His Eminence, Alhaji Chief Dawood Makanjuola Akinola De-Damak, Aare of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Aare of Ibadanland and Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture GCIC whose generous donation of an 18 Seater Bus and huge cash donation towards the success of this year’s Ibadan Cultural Festival is commendable and much appreciated. The Jagun Olubadan, Apesin Ola, Sir Chief ‘Dotun Sanusi , Chairman and CEO Ilaji Hotels and Resorts supported us with the use of the entire Ilaji Facilities for this year’s Sports Finals and the Business Luncheon programs. We can not quantify these wholesome package in monetary value. Thank you Sir and God will continue to elevate you. I must not forget to mention the uncommon support received from the Chairman, Solution FM and the Aare Onibon Balogun of Ibadanland, Oloye Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke FCA whose physical appearances as well as huge monetary supports has helped tremendously in setting the bar higher for this year’s Cultural Festival. Oloye Taofeek Adegboyega Adegoke, E se pupo, A dupe O. The President, Ibadan Descendants Union USA, who is also the Ajia Olubadan of Ibadanland did not only led a powerful tream from the USA, he also attracted big support as well as his physical presence in virtually all our programs, Oloye Abiola Iyiola, K’ara O le O. To all our worthy and deserving Awardees from Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture to the Fellowship awardees, through Business Luncheon to the Merit awards at the Grand Finale, we congratulate you for being considered to be so celebrated and honored by Ibadanland. Congratulations to you all. To the Baba-lojas, Mama Lojas, the Warlord Families, all affiliate clubs and associations home and abroad, we congratulate you all for taking ownership of the whole event as the hosting authority. Congratulations and thank you all.
The degree of media coverage we enjoyed at this year’s events is massive and phenomenon. We thank all the media houses in Ibadanland and beyond. God bless you all.
To our individual sponsors as well as corporate partners, we remain indebted to you and pray that our relationship will blossom into permanent investment that will be beneficial to both sides. I must not fail to honour our religious leaders and particularly His Eminence, Prelate Sunday Ola Makinde whose fatherly support can not be over emphasised. E se pupo Baba. E.ma pe fun wa O. To all the Past President Generals and members of the BoT CCII , thank you for being there always for us.
To all the members of this year Planning Committee whose labour, dedication, commitment and financial support can only be imagined, I owe you a lot and pray that God almighty will compensate you beyond any human expectations.
To the Chief Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole CCII EXCO led administration for believing in our capacity and strength, we appreciate and congratulate you on this achievement. Permit me however to register my profound gratitude to this man I call ‘President General Oloriire’ for supporting me throughout on the assignment which he gave me for without such immense support we couldn’t have recorded this massive success story. My PG Sir, E se pupo. A dupe O. Olorun yoo maa ran Eyin naa l’owo. Aamin
For all that you have committed to the success of this year Ibadan Cultural Festival celebration, please accept our gratitude and we pray for God abundance mercy on us and on Ibadanland.
Lastly, had my wife and children refused to release me for the service of my fatherland, how would I have the opportunity to play this little role. Kikelomo Ajike , Asaaju Iyalode of Ojeniranland and my beautiful children, Ibadanland appreciate you all. Thank you
To God almighty once again. E se O Baba.
E se pupo, A dupe O.
Balogun Gaphar Ojetola Chairman, 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival
This week, the Louvre Museum in Paris was even forced to close for a day because of its overcrowding problem. (Some union representations for the museum said tourists have stifled renovation work on the Mona Lisa, crowding them into tight, unworkable spaces.) If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, or the Statue of Liberty, you should know now: You’ll likely run into hordes of slow-moving, selfie-stick-carrying tourists at any popular tourist attraction.
While not foolproof, there are a few effective strategies in avoiding tourists while visiting popular travel hotspots; just be sure to reserve tickets early and make use of your destination’s city-pass option. If you’re planning ahead, the easiest way to avoid the hordes of tourists is to visit during the off-season, which will vary depending on your destination.
Book During Shoulder or Off-season
In Europe, peak season is summer and off-season generally spans the months of November to March. (“Shoulder season” occurs during the transition months from peak to off-season and back). Meanwhile, Australia’s peak season happens between December and February, when weather conditions are at their best, and low-season takes place from May to August.
If you’re headed on a trip to visit the Statue of Liberty, USA Today recommends visiting during fall or winter when lines are expected to be shorter. Visiting the Eiffel Tower? You should expect wait times as long as two hours during the summer and less than 30 minutes on weekdays during shoulder and off-season, SmarterTravel writes.
Before you even book a flight, you might want to take a look at popular attractions’ availability; as the New York Times writes, tourist attractions like the Statue of Liberty—which require a ticket to visit—can book out months in advance. For this reason, you’ll want to buy a ticket as early as possible, which can usually be done online for major attractions.
There are no secrets to success. It is the result of
preparation, hard work, and learning from failure.
– Paul Tournier
You might find that some cities offer city-wide passes to visit a number of attractions, as well. Purchasing a Madrid Card, for example, will let you into a number of attractions in the city, and allow you to skip any lines. (Some cities may offer museum combination-tickets which work similarly, too.) You should research any ticketing options by doing an online search for your destination’s tourism board, for example.