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How 2025 Budget Will Directly Improve Lives of Nigerians – ‘Odidiomo’

Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Olajide, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Digital, Information Communication Technology and Cyber Security has assured Nigerians that the 2025 budget will prioritize projects that directly improve the lives of the populace.

Speaking with newsmen on his committee’s preparations ahead of the forthcoming budget defence session, Olajide reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to scrutinizing the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, along with its agencies, to ensure that budgetary allocations align with public interest.

Olajide, a two-term lawmaker representing Ibadan South-West/Ibadan North-West federal constituency of Oyo state, pledged that the budget defence process would be thorough and transparent, ensuring that funds are directed to projects with measurable impacts. He also called on stakeholders to collaborate with the committee to ensure that the 2025 budget meets the aspirations of Nigerians.

According to him, “We are committed to ensuring that every naira allocated translates into meaningful development for our people. The 2025 appropriation budget will reflect the needs of Nigerians and prioritize impactful initiatives. Our work as lawmakers is to bridge the gap between governance and the needs of the people, and this budget defence is an opportunity to do just that.”

Olajide highlighted the importance of addressing cybersecurity challenges, given the growing reliance on digital platforms for economic activities. He emphasized the need to harness the potential of the ICT sector to drive economic growth and improve national security and expressed the readiness of his committee to ensure that funds are allocated to expand digital infrastructure, promote digital literacy, and create opportunities for youth employment.

“Our security depends on a robust cyber infrastructure. Hence, we must allocate resources to protect our digital economy while fostering innovation,” he noted.

Oguntoye Twins Bag First Naomi Barber King Youth Legacy Award

The Most Famous Twins in African Tourism, Ambassadors Taiwo & Kehinde Oguntoye, the founders of TWC Intercontinental Limited, initiators of Twins Tourism, World Twins Festival and the hosts of the popular travel & tourism magazine radio show “Travel With The Twins” have been selected as the pioneer winners of Dr. Naomi Barber King Youth Legacy Award 2024.

 

The announcement came from AD King Foundation Atlanta, USA, the organizer of AD King Young Professional Leaders Bootcamp.

 

According to a letter signed by the President/CEO of the AD King Foundation Atlanta US, Dr. Babs Onabanjo, the award will be formally presented to Ambassadors Taiwo & Kehinde Oguntoye at the AD King Young Professional Leaders Bootcamp ceremony scheduled to hold between December 5-7, 2024 in Atlanta.

 

“Awardees are drawn from various countries worldwide. Oguntoye Twins have been selected for their leadership qualities and the significant impact they are making in their communities” says Dr. Babs Onabanjo.

 

Reacting to the notification, Oguntoye Twin brothers, who are Ibadan indigenes from Oderinlo compound and Ode-Ote village of Legelu Local Government, Oyo State, Nigeria expressed their delight at being recognized by the AD King Foundation and the Youth Legacy Award of Dr. Naomi Ruth Barber (Sister-in-Law) of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

 

They stated “We are truly enthralled by this recognition, particularly because it comes from a lineage of the “two brothers who dared to dream” Alfred Daniel King and Dr. Martin Luther King. We dedicate this honor to all multiple births worldwide.”

SW Housing Exhibition: Olubadan Receives NIOB Fellowship 

On the sidelines of the 2 day Southwest Housing Exhibition taking place in Ibadan His Imperial Majesty Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin (Ige Olakulehin 1) has received the prestigious Honorary Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Building (FNIOB).

The conferment of the Honorary Fellowship by the Executive Committee of the Nigerian Institute Of Building on the monarch took place at the Olubadan Palace ,Oke Aremo, Ibadan after the opening ceremonies and paper presentations of the 2 day Southwest Housing exhibition at Manhattan Hall, Eleyele, Ibadan on Friday.

Conferring the Honorary Fellowship, the president of FNIOB Builder (Sir) Alderton Ewa Ewa disclosed that the contributions of His Imperial Majesty to the built environment and the Nigerian nation is remarkable.

According to the FNIOB president, as a graduate of Building Technology, His Imperial Majesty possesses and has demonstrated a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the construction industry throughout the years.

“The Nigerian Institute of Building is proud to recognize your outstanding achievements by conferring upon you the highest honour within our institution. This recognition is a testament to your unwavering commitment to excellence and your dedication to the advancement of the building profession”,

Speaking further, the NIOB President was of the opinion that the acceptance of the honour by the Olubadan of Ibadan will further elevate the status of the NIOB and inspire its members to strive for greater heights adding that the guidance and support of Olubadan will be invaluable to shape a better future for Nigeria and the Institute of Building.

The monarch spoke through Chief Lateef Adetokunbo Akintola Are Ago Balogun of Ibadanland who appreciated the courtesy visit and the conferment of the Honorary Fellowship.

In the post conferment acceptance speech made on behalf of the paramount ruler, Aremo Olubadan of Ibadanland. Barr. Olasunmbo Owolabi Olakulehin said the Fellowship conferment is a welcome idea and the Olubadan is happy and proud to accept it considering his experience and background in building technology.

Accompanying the NIOB President during the conferment ceremony were Builder (Hon) Bimbo Kolade, Dr. Victoria Akinola, Builder Olaniran, other executive members of the Institute.

Present to receive the NIOB team in the palace were Senior Chief Raifu Amusa Eleruwere, the Ekefa Balogun of Ibadanland, Chief Muibi Ademola Odunade the Asaju Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Adewale Abass Kadri Jagun Balogun of Ibadanland, Prince Adekunle Owolabi Olakulehin, Mr.Kolawole Balogun among others.

Senator Alli celebrates APC leader, BAO @ 85

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has felicitated with APC chieftain and a leader in the progressives’ family, Alhaji Bello Adeleke Oladeji, popularly known as Baba BAO, on his 85th birthday.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Ibadan.

Senator Alli described Baba BAO as a pillar of wisdom, courage and dedication whose contributions to the progressive ideals remain a source of inspiration to all.

The lawmaker praised Baba BAO’s lifelong commitment to good governance and selfless service to humanity.

He said that Baba BAO’s 85 years of impactful living epitomises integrity, resilience and an unwavering dedication to the principles of progressivism.

Senator Alli extolled Baba BAO’s invaluable role in nurturing the growth of the APC in Oyo State.

He acknowledged the celebrant’s mentorship of young politicians and his constant advocacy for unity, development and progress within the party.

According to him, Baba BAO’s wise counsel has continued to shape decisions that have advanced the party’s objectives and the well-being of the people.

“On this joyous occasion of your 85th birthday, we celebrate your remarkable legacy and your immeasurable contributions to the political and social fabric of our state and nation.

“Your dedication to humanity and progressive politics serves as a beacon for many of us striving to make a difference,” he said.

He prayed for Almighty Allah’s continued blessings upon Baba BAO, granting him more years in good health and peace to continue inspiring generations to come.

The lawmaker called on younger politicians to emulate Baba BAO’s exemplary life of service, humility, and dedication to the common good.

Wolekanle Commends Makinde on Teachers’ Recruitment

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Bashorun Akinwale Akinwole, has lauded Governor Seyi Makinde for recruiting new teachers for primary and secondary schools across the state.

 

In a statement, Akinwole noted that the recruitment process conducted by the state government would significantly enhance the standard of education in Oyo State.

 

He highlighted that the recruitment of thousands of teachers, particularly during a period of economic challenges and the implementation of the N80,000 minimum wage, underscores Governor Makinde’s commitment to the welfare of the people and the development of the education sector.

 

Akinwole also congratulated the successful candidates and urged them to seize the opportunity to contribute to the growth of education in the state.

Call Works Minister to Order, Group Tells Tinubu

A Kaduna based pressure group, New Nigerian Initiative (NNI), on Thursday cautioned the Works Minister, Dave Umahi against abuse of office and reckless use of power.

Recently, workers in the ministry were taken aback following the usurpation of the powers of Directors by junior workers in the ministry under the supervision of the said minister.

The minister was alleged of promoting and negating Civil Service Rules and Procedures on matters to be handled by directorate cadre as against use of junior officers to usurp the powers and positions of the directors.

According to the coordinator of NNI, Adamu Bello, the minister deliberately chose “to elevate junior workers on matters relating to the day to day activities of the ministry. Such workers were being prodded up far and above some directors which is against the rules and regulations of the civil service.

According to Bello, “for posterity sake, we in the New Nigeria Initiative feel concerned that nepotism, high handedness, abuse and usurpation of power cannot help the government of the day.

“We were inundated with complaints from some concerned workers of the ministry who felt an injustice to one, is an injustice to all and therefore cried out that such an aberration must not go unchallenged.

“The minister as an ex-Governor ought to stick to the rules and procedures of the Civil Service by maintaining orderliness, decency and transparency in matters affecting running of affairs of the ministry.

“Downgrading a Director for a junior worker to carry out the roles expected of such Director is an aberration and sheer use of naked power to subjugate a top civil servant who weathered the storm and rose through the ranks to get to his present status.

“Quite sadly too, the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, according to our findings is watching helplessly as the minister seeks to desecrate the civil service and sunk it deeper into abyss. The Permanent Secretary as the Accounting Officer of the ministry ought to be seen to protect his people and ensure the right thing is done always.

“But unfortunately the reverse is the case here. He should be reminded that if his rights had been trampled upon over the years, he might not get to the coveted position he holds presently and posterity will judge him rightly or wrongly.

“To this end, we are calling on President Bola Tinubu to call his minister to order and restore confidence in the civil service.

“The Head of Service of the Federation should also rein in, on the junior workers who were being unduly and illegally elevated to usurp the powers of their bosses,” Bello added.

It should be noted that the Nigerian Civil Service Rules have specific provisions that address the issues of usurpation of power and abuse of office.

The rules emphasize the importance of adherence to governing rules and regulations to prevent abuse of power and ensure effective service delivery.

The rules also highlight the need for accountability and transparency in the civil service, which helps to prevent usurpation of power and abuse of office.

Additionally, the Public Service Rules provide guidelines for the conduct of public officers, including provisions related to the use of power and authority.

It’s worth noting that the Nigerian Civil Service Rules are designed to promote good governance, accountability, and transparency in the civil service.

The rules take these issues seriously and provide guidelines to prevent them.

Oyo NUJ Celebrates Newly Elected National President, Alhassan Yahya

Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, under the leadership of its Chairman, Ademola Ismail Babalola, extends its warmest congratulations to the newly elected National President of the union, Comrade Alhassan Yahya on his well-deserved victory at the just-concluded 8th Triennial Delegates Conference held in Owerri, Imo State.

The council also celebrates the historic achievement of Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde as the first woman journalist to ascend the position of National Deputy President of the NUJ. This milestone serves as a testament to her unwavering dedication and the progressive strides of our union.

Comrade Alhassan’s triumph reflects his loyalty, simplicity, and strategic vision, which have endeared him to journalists across the nation. His extensive experience and steadfast commitment to unionism are qualities that assure us of a new era of impactful leadership for our union.

The Oyo NUJ Council equally commends the re-election of Princess Aderonke Samo as Vice President, B-Zone (Southwest), and Abdulrasaq Alege as Zonal Secretary, acknowledging their contributions to the development of the profession in the region.

We salute the immediate past National President, Chief Chris Isiguzo, for his exemplary leadership and call on all participants in the election to set aside differences and rally around the new leadership for the progress of the NUJ.

Congratulations once again to Comrade Alhassan Yahya and the newly elected National Executive Council. The Oyo NUJ Council pledges its unwavering support to ensure the union reaches greater heights.

E-Signed:

Sola Oladapo
State Secretary
November 28, 2024

Yahya’s Victory: A New Era for Nigeria Union of Journalists

Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan 

Alhassan Yahaya has emerged as the new President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).

He defeated his closest rival, Dele Atunbi, with 436 votes to Atunbi’s 97 votes. Mohammed Garba came third with 39 votes.

Mrs. Abimbola Oyetunde was elected Deputy National President unopposed, while Mrs. Ronke Afebioye Samo was re-elected unopposed as Vice President Zone B. Comrade Victor Ndukwe was also returned unopposed as National Treasurer.

The election was conducted amidst tight security, with Comrade Mike Ikeogwu as Chairman of the electoral committee.

In his remarks, President-elect Yahya Alhassan thanked delegates and observers from across Nigeria for their support. He promised to take the journalism profession to new heights and prioritize his members’ welfare.

Alao congratulates Fatai Ibikunle on CCB appointment

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State and former gubernatorial aspirant, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao (Allow Alao), has congratulated Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle,

on his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as a member of the Board of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB).

Alao in a statement he personally signed, described the appointment of Ibikunle whom he called his dear senior brother and leader, as a welcome development, stating that it is nothing but recognition of his track record as a progressive and dedication to service.

He said he has confidence that Alhaji Ibikunle will bring his wealth of experience to bear in the discharge of his new responsibility, noting that he would add great value to the success of the administration of Mr. President most especially maintaining integrity within the public service.

The Asiwaju of Irokoland while maintaining that the new appointee will significantly contribute to promoting accountability in governance, insisted that he is a respected leader in political and public service.

According to him, “I want to congratulate my senior brother and leader, Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle, on his well deserved appointment as a member of the Board of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) by President BolaTinubu.

“I have known Alhaji Ibikunle for quite a long time and as a true progressive I have the conviction that given his wealth of experience he would discharge the duty expected of him in the new role.”

Alao then prayed to Almighty God to guide him to give his best towards the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of President Tinubu most especially promoting accountability in governance.

Oyo APC Publicity Secretary Lauds Gov Makinde Over SUBEB/TESCOM Recruitment 

Oloyede Olawale

 

The Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress Oyo State (APC) Mr Olawale Wasiu Sadare has lauded the efforts Governor Seyi Makinde in regigging the education sector of Oyo State, through the ongoing recruitment process of Teaching and Non-Teaching staff in public primary and secondary schools across the state.

 

Mr Sadare acknowledged Governor Makinde’s action,on his personal social media page (page) “Facebook”,with some words of encouragement for the number one man in the state.

 

Some of the people who reacted to this commendation,also praised the Oyo APC Scribe for not playing politics of hatred. He was encouraged for noticing the developmental governance of Mr Governor, despite their difference in political affiliation.

 

It would be recalled that Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier approved the recruitment of 5,600 Teachers,and 80 Caregivers to strengthen the state education sector,and tackle unemployment, which the process is still on after a series of structured selections.

Alhassan Yahya Tells Supporters To Halt Further Campaigns As NUJ Election Holds Wednesday

Alhassan Yahya’s decision to halt his presidential campaigns is a significant development in the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) election. By stopping his campaigns, Yahya demonstrates his commitment to upholding the guidelines set by the NUJ electoral committee.

This move showcases Yahya’s respect for the electoral process and his dedication to ensuring a fair and transparent election. It’s a testament to his leadership qualities and his ability to put the interests of the union above his own ambitions.

Yahya’s candidacy has been gaining momentum, with several councils, including Lagos; Kano and Enugu states amongst about 20 other councils and three zones of the Union, endorsing him as their preferred presidential candidate.

His campaign has focused on promoting the welfare of journalists, advancing press freedom, and enhancing professional development opportunities.

Oyo Zonal Stakeholders Assure Support for Abas’ Leadership of APC

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress APC in the four local government councils of Oyo Federal Constituency have indicated their resolve to key into the efforts of the acting chairman of the APC in the state, Alhaji Olayide Abas, with a view to repositioning the Party and making it to return to power in 2027.

The stakeholders which comprised leaders, stalwarts, women and youth representatives were drawn from Afijio, Atiba, Oyo East and Oyo West local government councils. The visiting delegation was led to the Oke-Ado, Ibadan State Secretariat of the APC by the Zonal Leader, Chief Christopher Ajibade.

In his address, Chief Ajibade extolled the virtues of the acting chairman who he described as a thorough-bred progressive and an experienced political administrator whose leadership would benefit the APC in the state in no small measures. “We have come here today not only to identify with our new state chairman but also to convey the message of loyalty to his leadership from all the party faithful in Oyo Federal Constituency.

“There is no doubt about the popularity of the APC in our zone even as we are proud to say here that the two federal lawmakers who hail from our zone (Sen. Yunus Akintunde and Hon. Akeem Adeyemi) are doing extremely well to the admiration of their respective constituents. The performances of the duo are enough to attract more people to our fold as fresh members. Most people at the grassroots are now convinced that it is only the APC that can give them responsive and responsible political servants. We shall leverage on this to mobilize support for the party in future polls.” Chief Ajibade said.

Alhaji Abas, on his response, expressed his readiness to partner all APC stakeholders in the state to achieve the aim of returning the broom party to the status of strong, cohesive and election-winning political party in the state. “We have initiated plans to bring every relevant person and stakeholder into the fold and we are elated at the results we have got so far. Very soon, we will begin the tour of all the zones in the state and this would consolidate the recent gains which we have recorded in a very short period.” He stated.

Other state executive committee members of the Oyo APC who received the delegation were; Alh. Tajudeen Olanite, Alhaji Olalekan Busari, Hon. Joshua Oyebamiji, Olawale Sadare, Mrs. Taiwo Moteleola, Hon. John Aremu and Chief Mukaila Shittu while members of the delegation also included; Hon. Stephen Ojedele, Alh. Rasaki Babalola, Chief Dijo Ogundiran, Alh. Isiaka Babatunde, Alh. Rasaki Ajibike, Alh. Kareem Kolawole, Mr. Ademola Adelowo as well as some women and youth representatives.

NUJ: Why Delegates are Routing for Alhassan Presidential Ticket

Alhassan Yahya’s impending victory in the NUJ National Election offers valuable lessons for future opposition candidates. His widespread endorsement from across Nigeria underscores the importance of integrity, humility, and a commitment to the welfare of journalists.

Key Takeaways:

Integrity and Humility: Yahya’s reputation as a man of integrity and humility has resonated with voters. His leadership style and character have earned him the respect and trust of his peers.

People-Centered Manifesto: Yahya’s focus on journalists’ welfare, safety, and press freedom demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of his constituents. His manifesto addresses critical issues affecting journalists, showcasing his understanding of their needs.

Transformational Vision: Yahya’s plans to transform the International Institute of Journalism (IIJ), establish an online radio station, and attract new investments to address revenue shortfalls demonstrate his vision for a stronger, more sustainable union.

Capacity Building: His emphasis on capacity building for journalists locally and internationally highlights the importance of investing in human capital to drive growth and development.

As the longest-serving NEC member and outstanding candidate, Yahya’s leadership will likely be marked by:-

Collaboration: Building strong relationships with stakeholders to drive growth and development.

Innovative Problem-Solving: Addressing critical challenges facing journalists and the union.

Accountability: Demonstrating transparency and accountability in leadership

Overall, Alhassan Yahya’s impending leadership offers a beacon of hope for the Nigeria Union of Journalists, and his example serves as a valuable lesson for future opposition candidates.

History Beckons as A+A North/South Joint Presidential Ticket Set to Clinch NUJ Leadership

Alhassan Yahya and Abimbola Oyetunde are making history as the first North/South unification ticket in the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) election, set to take place on November 27, 2024, in Owerri, Imo State.

This ticket is significant not only because it represents a unified front but also because it promotes gender equality, with Abimbola Oyetunde, a woman, running alongside Alhassan Yahya.

Abimbola Oyetunde has already won the deputy presidential position unopposed, leaving the delegates to elect Alhassan Yahya as the president.

Yahya’s campaign promises include running an all-inclusive, open, transparent, and accountable leadership, prioritizing the welfare and safety of journalists, press freedom, and developing the national secretariat in Abuja through collaboration with entrepreneurs and public/private entities for infrastructural development of the vast land in the NUJ National secretariat for profitability.

Yahya also promised to pursue Special Intervention Fund for media industry by the Federal Government and other subnational governments. Developing a 10-year development plan for the Union; consolidating on laudable programmes of his predecessors and improving on them where necessary and collaborating with international donor agencies and NUJ affiliates like NAWOJ and SWAN and other relevant bodies to reset the standard of media practice, are some other key areas of focus of his administration when elected as President.

He also promised to pursue better wages for journalists in the country through the reintroduction of Media Enhancement Bill; pursue full implementation of weigh-in allowance; NUJ insurance Scheme; and the restructuring of the International Institute of Journalism for optimal performance and establishment of NUJ online Radio which will be hosted on u-tube and to be manned by IIJ students alongside a Community Radio.

The Lagos State Council of the NUJ alongside 17 other State Councils including three zones (Zones B; C and E respectively) of the Union have already endorsed Yahya and Oyetunde as the sole presidential and deputy presidential candidates.

Their campaign, tagged “Forward Together: Greater Union!”, aims to propel the NUJ to the next phase of accomplishments and transformational leadership.

2024 NUJ National Election: GDJAN Lauds Babalola’s Strategic Leadership Role, Calls  for Peaceful Conduct

As delegates from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory prepare to converge in Imo State for the 2024 National Elections of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Grassroots and Development Journalists Association of Nigeria (GDJAN) has called for a peaceful and transparent process.

The association also praised Comrade Ademola Babalola, the Director-General of Team A+A’s campaign, for his impactful contributions to the union’s politics.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Mrs. Ramat Alade, and distributed to journalists on Sunday evening following an emergency meeting at its Bodija office, GDJAN described the upcoming NUJ election as a “family affair” and an opportunity for journalists to set an example of civility for the nation’s political class.

“We are aware of the tensions within various camps concerning the elections, but we appeal to all contestants to embrace peace and display a spirit of sportsmanship by accepting the election outcome and fostering unity,” the statement read.

*Addressing Criticisms of Team A+A*

Reacting to allegations of mass endorsements in favor of Team A+A, GDJAN dismissed the concerns as a routine political strategy and urged the group to remain focused on their goals.

“Of course, we are aware of the allegations of mass endorsement against Team A+A by groups who feel threatened. This is nothing new in politics—it’s a strategy to distract strong contenders. However, Team A+A should see this as a testament to their growing popularity and general acceptability across states,” the statement added.

*Applauding Ademola Babalola’s Leadership*

GDJAN lauded Comrade Ademola Babalola for his exceptional contributions to the NUJ and his exemplary leadership as the campaign director of Team A+A.

“Ademola Babalola has consistently demonstrated the hospitable and diplomatic traits that Ibadan is renowned for. His grassroots connections, cultural values, and political acumen have played pivotal roles in Team A+A’s success. From securing widespread endorsements in the Southwest to winning the hearts of NUJ leaders across the Southeast, South-South, and the North, Babalola’s efforts have positioned Team A+A as formidable contenders,” GDJAN stated.

The association emphasized Babalola’s influence in elevating the status of the NUJ in Oyo State through his strong relationships with Governor Seyi Makinde and other key political figures. “Ademola’s achievements have brought pride to the Oyo State NUJ, living up to the state’s reputation as the ‘pacesetter.’ His leadership has set new standards for others to emulate,” the statement added.

GDJAN expressed optimism about the post-election period, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the collective progress of the union.

“We look forward to a victory party after Wednesday’s elections that will unite all members in celebrating the progress of the NUJ. Beyond the elections, we expect everyone to work together, free of discrimination, to advance the union’s goals,” the statement concluded.

With less than 60 hours to the polls, GDJAN’s call for peace and unity underscores the need for a harmonious process that reflects the values of Nigeria’s journalistic community.