DIGITAL ECONOMY: OGUN ENGAGES STAKEHOLDERS ON POLICY FRAMEWORK

 Towards achieving a world-class Technology Transformation in Ogun State, stakeholders have been engaged to brainstorm on actionable policy framework that would strengthen Digital Economy.

The two-day workshop, which took place at the Ogun TechHub, was organised by the UK International Development, a Non-Governmental Organisation ; Tech4Dev, in conjunction with the Bureau of Information Technology (BIT).

Country Lead, Digital Access Program; UK International Development, Mr. Idongesit Udoh, said the scope of the workshop was to strengthen digital ecosystem, not limiting digital transformation to the cities alone but spread across remote areas of the State, breaking business barriers, unlocking Public-Private Partnership (PPP) opportunities, through various recommendations gathered from the participants towards achieving policy-driven digital economy.

 He said Ogun state had achieved milestone in digital transformation, but a lot of gaps needed to be bridged through public and private stakeholders that would enhance e-governance .

 "Two major reasons we are gathered here is to think global policy that will strengthen digital economy and ensure local implementation at all levels across the state,’’ he noted.

 Earlier, Special Adviser on Information Communication Technology (ICT), Mr. Dayo Abiodun, stated that it was expedient for Ogun State government to engage key players in public and private sectors to identify the gaps and business environment barriers, as well as presenting actionable recommendations to the government in order to ensure policy-driven digital economy in line with National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS).

 Dayo Abiodun, who was represented by the Director, Standard Regulations, Planning and Research, Mrs. Olatundun Adekunte, explained that bringing together public sector, which are majorly civil servants handling inflow and outflow of government transactions and the private sectors who were at the receiving end of its policies, was to brainstorm on how to improve on existing digital transformation, laws and best practices, as well as making recommendations that would enable government to formulate policy framework that would harmonise with the Federal Government action plan to taking digital economy in Nigeria to a world-class standard.

Also speaking, a Research and Policy Lead, Tech4Dev, Mr. Timothy Oliomogbe, stated that Tech4Dev is an NGO partnering Ogun State just like other states, to ensure that youths, women and People Living with Disability (PWDs) participate in digital transformation initiatives for self-reliance, Ease of Doing Business (EODB), in order to enhance local reality and international best practices.

 He emphasised that all the recommendations made at the end of the two-day workshop would be collated in line with the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) and presented to Ogun State government without any alteration.

 

Olayinka Ezema,

Information and Public Relations Officer, (BIT)

Ogun Christian Pilgrims Charged On Conduct, Spiritual Focus in Israel

 

The Ogun state government has charged Christian pilgrims travelling to Israel from the State to remain spiritually focused, disciplined and law-abiding throughout the pilgrimage in the Holy Land.

 Governor Dapo Abiodun, gave the charge on Saturday, during a farewell service for the intending pilgrims at the Obas' Complex, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Abiodun, represented by the Chief of Staff, Dr. Oluwatoyin Taiwo stressed that pilgrimage to the Holy Land is not a leisure trip but a sacred period for spiritual renewal and deeper communion with God, urging the pilgrims to conduct themselves with integrity and decorum, as they represent the State and Nigeria at large.

The governor emphasised that unity, cooperation and strict adherence to laid-down rules were critical to the success of the pilgrimage.“Pilgrims must see themselves as ambassadors of the state and the country. Your conduct abroad reflects on all of us, and unity among pilgrims is key to achieving the spiritual purpose of this journey.

Also speaking, the Board Secretary, Mr. Ibiyemi Oduyemi , described the pilgrimage as a strictly spiritual exercise and cautioned pilgrims against distractions that could undermine its essence, advising pilgrims to dress modestly, eat moderately, remain with their assigned groups, obey the laws of the land and follow the instructions of tour guides throughout the journey.

He added that prayer should remain the central focus of the pilgrimage. and commended Governor Abiodun for his continued support for pilgrimage programme, describing the state government’s efforts as instrumental to a well-structured and seamless process.

A total of 172 pilgrims from the state, are expected to undertake the holy pilgrimage this year to Israel for 10 days

OGUN NUJ CELEBRATES FORMER GOVERNOR, SEN. AMOSUN AT 68

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, extends its warmest felicitations to the former Governor of Ogun State and a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, His Excellency, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, CON, FCA, on the auspicious occasion of his 68th birthday.

As a Union, we recognize Senator Amosun not just as a political titan, but as a visionary leader whose tenure as Governor redefined the architectural and economic landscape of the Gateway State. His "Mission to Rebuild" agenda remains a reference point for infrastructural revolution and urban renewal in the annals of our state’s history.

Senator Amosun’s relationship with the fourth estate of the realm has always been characterized by mutual respect and a shared commitment to the development of Ogun State. 

Throughout his years in public service, he has consistently demonstrated a deep appreciation for the role of the media in sustaining democracy and ensuring administrative accountability.

We recall with admiration his administrative prowess in elevating the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), a feat that moved Ogun State from a struggling economy to a self-sustaining industrial hub. This bold economic shift created a legacy of financial independence that continues to benefit the state today.

Beyond the brick and mortar of governance, the "Akonni" of Owu Kingdom has proven himself to be a compassionate leader. His various philanthropic gestures and his dedication to the welfare of the masses, even after leaving the corridors of executive power, speak volumes of his character and love for humanity.

In the hallowed chambers of the Senate, his legislative contributions were marked by a focus on national security, economic stability, and the empowerment of his constituents. He remains a bridge-builder who navigates the complex Nigerian political terrain with courage, charisma, and a relentless spirit of excellence.

The Ogun NUJ celebrates his resilience and his unwavering faith in the Nigerian project. To us, he is more than a statesman; he is a partner in progress who has always opened his doors to the media, fostering a culture of transparency and robust engagement even in the face of challenging political climates.

As he marks this milestone of 68 years, we acknowledge the grace of God upon his life. It is our prayer that the Almighty continues to grant him the strength of a youth and the wisdom of the elders as he remains a vital voice in the quest for a better and more prosperous Nigeria.

We urge the younger generation of leaders to draw inspiration from Senator Amosun’s work ethic and his "Ogun Standard" philosophy, which emphasizes quality, durability, and a sense of pride in our collective identity as a people.

On behalf of all journalists in Ogun State, we wish our dear former Governor a magnificent birthday celebration filled with joy, peace, and the warmth of family. May his future years be even more impactful than the glorious past we celebrate today.

E-Signed:

Comrade Wale Olanrewaju

Chairman, Ogun NUJ

Comrade Bunmi Adigun

Secretary, Ogun NUJ

OGSG BEGINS ENFORCEMENT OF 5-METER SETBACK AT KARA MARKET

The Ogun State Government has launched a renewed enforcement drive at Kara market, insisting on compliance of traders and operators with the mandatory five meter setback along the length of the market corridor.

The Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Hon. Tolu Poviwhede, who also doubles as the new Chairman of the Taskforce on Environment made this known, while leading a team of Taskforce on enforcement tour of Kara market, saying the initiative was aimed at improving environmental safety, as well as reducing congestion particularly during this festive season.

According to the SA, the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, had earlier in a meeting between the management of the Ministry and Kara market, gave the directive that coordinated interventions, involving Environmental Officials and management of Kara market should work together for effectiveness, adding that the setback enforcement was essential for public safety.

He noted that the 5 meter setback was not optional. It was designed to reduce traffic congestion particularly during the festive season, to create safe walkway for the market users.

The Special Assistant noted that while carrying out the exercise, some make shifts structure built too close to the access roads were marked for removal, just as traders were advised to reorganize their stalls in line with the approved spatial layout or risk sanctions.

The representative of the Seriki of Kara market, Alhaji Hamsat Saidu, while responding, acknowledged the government’s directive, saying the market authority had earlier held a meeting with the Hon. Commissioner for Environment and they were always ready to comply with the directive given by Government to ensure a safe and healthy market environment.

 

Kemi Peters,

Information and Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Environment

ACHUDUME TO NIGERIANS: SHOW LOVE TO ALL, THIS CHRISTMAS

The General Overseer of the Victory Life Bible Church, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, has charged Nigerians to show love, care and empathy to people in sync with the essence of Christmas when God gave his only begotten son as propitiation for the sins of the world.

Apostle Achudume who stated this in the sermon titled "The Manger and His Majesty" which he delivered at the 2025 VLBC Carol service held on Friday at the Church Auditorium described a manger as a feeding place for sheep and shepherds who in those days were generally despised but however were saddled with the delivery of news of the birth of Jesus.

He said the story of Jesus was indicative of the height that a child can attain in life irrespective of the status of his birth. 

"From humble beginnings, God gave Jesus a name that is above all names to underscore the fact that anybody can rise from humble beginnings to enviable heights.

Apostle Achudume quoted Phillipians 2 verses 1 to 8 to underscore the need to share and care adding "do not let your neighbour sleep hungry".

He commended Jesus' mind of service and humility, which earned him majesty to people.

He said that "if I light your candle, it does not diminish me" and wished attendees a Merry Christmas.

Delivering the Royal Blessings, the Olowu of Owu, Oba Professor Saka Matemilola urged Nigerians to show love to each other and enjoined leaders to make service their watchword adding "are you a leader or a boss?"

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, led other eminent Nigerians including the Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, Professor Sola Arulogun, General Manager, Paramount FM, Mrs Oluremi Olugbenro, Mr. Wole Elusakin and Prof. Folu Eniolorunda to read the lessons at the Carol service.

Whilst welcoming guests earlier, the Chairman of the 2025 VLBC Carol Service, Mr. Akin Okudero thanked church members and some corporate organisations for supporting the Committee to organise a first of its kind Carol service for the Church.

Hundreds of children, the aged and winners of tickets went home with various food items and gifts.

The service was preceded by a segment tagged "Caroliganza" where colourfully dressed VLBC District members showcased their fashion steeze and dance moves to music supplied by the Brass Band and DJ O Mighty. Attendees mounted the 360 degrees picture stand and bouncing castles.