OGEPA TO HOST ANNUAL CHEMICAL USERS, HANDLERS WORKSHOP ON E-WASTE MANAGEMENT

The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) is set to host the 4th edition of its Annual Chemical Users and Handlers Workshop, an event that brings together stakeholders, environmental experts and industry players to address the growing challenge of electronic waste management with the theme: ‘Transforming E-waste into Opportunity: Circular Economy Solution for Ogun State’.

This was disclosed by the General Manager, Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), Hon. Kehinde Bello, who noted that the workshop was designed to educate chemical users, waste handlers and environmental practitioners on responsible practices, while exploring innovative solutions for managing electronic waste.

‘’Electronic waste, commonly referred to as e-waste, has become a major environmental concern due to the rapid increase in discarded electronic devices such as computers, phones and household appliances. When improperly handled, these materials can release hazardous substances that pose risks to human health and the environment,” he said.

The General Manager said the upcoming workshop would provide a platform for experts and participants to examine how the circular economy approach could transform the e-waste challenge into economic and environmental opportunities

Also speaking, Director, Hazardous Materials Management and Environmental Safety Department, Mr. Saburi Lawal, said participants expected at the event include; government officials, environmental regulators, manufacturers, waste management professionals, academic researchers, representatives from private sector organisations among others.

 

Luke Adebesin,

Information & Public Relations Officer OGEPA

SAPZ/IFAD STRENGTHENS FARMERS CAPACITY THROUGH AGRICULTURAL MARKET INFORMATION SYSTEM IN OGUN STATE

In a bid to continually improve the capacity of smallholder farmers, the Special Agro-Indusrial Processing Zones Programme(SAPZ) in partnership with the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), has trained its farmers on the use of agricultural Market Information System (AGMIS).

The initiative is aimed at improving access to real-time information and market data to enhance agricultural productivity.

The training, held in Abeokuta, the state capital, brought together multi-stakeholder agribusiness forum (MAF) chairmen, smallholder farmers, cooperative leaders, and agribusiness stakeholders from across the SAPZ clusters.

The programme focused on equipping farmers with practical knowledge on how to access, interpret, and apply market information such as commodity prices, demand trends, weather forecasts, and supply chain updates.

Speaking at the event, the State Programme Coordinator, Mrs. Kehinde Jokotoye, reiterated the significance of the training to farmers’ daily operations. She urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity, noting that significant resources had been committed to improving their productivity and adding value to their activities.

Also speaking, the National Rural Institution Expert, Mr. Abel Ameh, highlighted the importance of the training, describing the AGMIS as a platform developed by SAPZ with the support of IFAD to link smallholder farmers to larger markets. According to him, the platform enables farmers to upload their commodities for immediate purchase by buyers across different locations, thereby reducing post-harvest losses. He added that the system enhances farmers’ visibility, ensuring their produce reaches a wider audience.

Ameh further noted that limited access to accurate and timely market data has long been a major challenge for farmers, often resulting in poor pricing decisions and significant losses. He explained that the introduction of the AGMIS platform is expected to bridge this gap by providing farmers with critical insights for informed decision-making.

Co-facilitators of the programme, Mr. Michael Oredola and Mr. Gbenga Agbeja of Dolarmicheck, took participants through hands-on sessions on navigating the platform, analyzing market trends, and connecting with potential buyers. They emphasized that the system is user-friendly and accessible via mobile devices, making it suitable for farmers in remote areas.

A key highlight of the training was the emphasis on transitioning farmers from subsistence farming to a more market-oriented approach, thereby increasing their visibility and income potential. By leveraging the AGMIS, farmers can identify high-demand crops, optimize planting schedules, and negotiate better prices for their produce.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr. Olufemi Oluwaseyi from Ijebu-East and Mr. Timothy Aina from the Obafemi Owode cluster expressed appreciation to the government and IFAD for the initiative. They noted that access to reliable market information would reduce exploitation by middlemen and significantly improve their bargaining power. They added that the training had opened their eyes to better planning and smarter selling strategies.

The Knowledge Management and Communication Officer, Mrs. Damilola Akindele, reiterated SAPZ’s commitment to continuous capacity building and the integration of technology in agriculture. She noted that the AGMIS training forms part of broader efforts to modernize agriculture, increase value addition, and strengthen food security.

The SAPZ programme is a Federal Government initiative implemented in collaboration with the African Development Bank (AfDB), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the State Governments. It is designed to transform rural economies by establishing efficient agro-processing hubs linked to farmers, creating employment opportunities, enhancing food security, and reducing rural poverty.

With the integration of digital tools like the Market Information System, stakeholders remain optimistic that the initiative will improve farmers’ livelihoods and drive sustainable agricultural growth. Participants are also expected to cascade the knowledge gained to others within their communities, ensuring wider adoption and long-term impact across the agricultural value chain.

SHSOMAN North American Alumni Renovates Antenatal Clinic, Donates Equipment

ABEOKUTA –

In a strategic move to bolster medical infrastructure and maternal healthcare in Ogun State, Sacred Heart Hospital, Lantoro, has received a significant boost following the official handover of its newly renovated and equipped antenatal clinic.

The project, spearheaded by the North American Chapter of the Sacred Heart School of Nursing and Midwifery Alumni (SHSOMAN), was designed to enhance the patient experience by creating a dignified, patient-centered environment.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Global Alumni President, Nurse Taiwo Akinboboye, described the initiative as a symbol of compassion and a firm commitment to safeguarding maternal and child health. She noted that the project represents hope for families and future generations.

The President of the North American Chapter, Nurse Oyinlola Talabi, emphasized that the upgrade aims to restore trust and respect in local healthcare delivery.

According to Talabi, the facility was overhauled to promote safer pregnancies and strengthen the hospital’s overall capacity.

> “One thing we care deeply about is investing in the healthcare industry and patient care. We want patients to be active participants in their healthcare team, not just objects of care. This facility is designed to impact their lives positively,” Talabi explained.

Also speaking, former President of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives, Nurse AbdulRafiu Adeniji, called for increased collaborative funding to support similar healthcare projects.

In their respective goodwill messages, Ambassador of the SHSOMAN Alumni, Nurse Remi Olusesi, , and Nurse Folakemi Enilolobo emphasized that quality antenatal care remains the most critical factor in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the region.

Responding on behalf of the hospital, the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Gregory Arifalo lauded the intervention as "timely," noting that it directly addresses the aging infrastructural deficits of the facility. He noted that the 130-year-old institution remains a pivotal healthcare provider for Ogun State and neighboring regions.

“We truly appreciate this laudable gesture from the North American alumni. On our part, we shall continue to strive to ensure we provide effective service to the people at all times,” Dr. Gregory stated.

The renovation, valued at millions of Naira, included both structural upgrades and the donation of essential medical and administrative tools:

 * Technology: Laptops for data management.

 * Comfort: Ceiling fans and new office desks.

 * Diagnostic Tools: Blood pressure apparatus, glucose monitors, stethoscopes, infrared thermometers, and pulse oximeters.

Organizers noted that this handover marks the beginning of a larger commitment to community health development, with further interventions expected to enhance maternal care and overall wellbeing in the future.

OGSERC BEGINS OPERATIONS TO DRIVE STABLE ELECTRICITY AND FAIR PRICING

In a decisive move to end the era of energy uncertainty, the Ogun State Government has officially operationalised the Ogun State Electricity Regulatory Commission (OGSERC), marking a transition from mere legislation to active legislation, aimed at driving robust transformation of the State’s power sector.

Inaugurating the newly constituted 15-man administrative team, led by a legal expert, Miss. Oluwatoyin Sonoiki in Abeokuta, Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, said that the commission was now legally empowered to regulate all electricity providers within the State, saying that the specifically designed State Electrification Fund would bring light to underserved and rural communities that had long been left in the dark.

Onasanya said further that, the mission was to build a modern, reliable and independent electricity market that would benefit the citizens across the State, noting that the operation of OGSERC was not only about bureaucracy, but to create a system that would protect consumers, with a firm mission of overseeing fair tariffs, consumer protection and market growth.

"The Commission is not here to be a 'cog in the wheel' of progress, but to collaborate with operators to ensure our people get real value for their money," Onasanya stated.

Also making his remark, Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Matters, Mr. Dipo Ogunfowora, emphasised that the regulatory framework would remain the backbone of the State’s economic ambition.

"We are building a power sector that is efficient and capable of supporting our journey toward becoming a true industrial megacity," he noted.

In her response, the Executive Secretary, Miss. Oluwatoyin Sonoiki, expressed deep gratitude for the Governor's vision that had gradually materialised into reality.

She assured residents that the Commission would operate with "loyalty, accountability and dedication," working hand in hand with operators to meet the high expectations of every Ogun household and business.

With OGSERC now fully active, Ogun State would no longer be waiting for power, rather, ownership of energy distribution had begun.

Temitope Adewunmi,

Communication & Public Affairs Officer OGSERC

PENSIONERS GET ADDITIONAL PENSION BENEFIT CHEQUE, LAUD GOVT. COMMITMENT

In fulfilment of its promise to ensure a peaceful life for workers after retirement, the Ogun State Government has presented Additional Pension Benefit cheques to eligible retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme

 The Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, at the official presentation of the cheques to the retirees, at Obas Complex, Oke-Mosan, reaffirmed that the one- off lump sum was to give the retirees soft landing with the sole aim of beginning a new life.  

 Governor Abiodun noted that the government would continue to put smiles on the faces of pensioners who had sacrificed and contributed to the development of the State, assuring them that their monthly benefits still remained with the Pension Funds Administrators ( PFA),who were expected to be sorting them monthly

Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, described the Additional Pension Benefits (APB) as a ‘Game Changer’, aimed to  bridge the gap and disparities between the Defined Pension Scheme (DBS) and the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), saying it would strengthen confidence of retirees and prevent pension crisis.           

 In his contributions, Chief Economic Adviser and Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, said annual pension payment increased from about N9 Billion in 2019 to over N20 Billion as at December 2025, saying the new arrangement had provided more favorable outcomes for retirees.       

  In her welcome address, Permanent Secretary, Bureau of State Pensions, Mrs. Arinola Adetayo, said the presentation of cheques to retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme CPS was a clear demonstration that the Government was determined to support the senior citizens, noting that the retirees would be receiving between 116 percent and 280 percent of their Total Annual Emolument as Additional Pension Benefits (APB) and this payment would be made directly to their accounts. She revealed that Ogun State was the first to introduce the APB aimed at improving the welfare of the Senior Citizens, that all issues connected to it had been settled.

          Also speaking, Labour Leaders including; Ahmed Benco of the Nigeria Labour Congress and his counterpart from the Trade Union Congress, Akeem Lasisi, appreciated the government for being the first to do this in Nigeria, the Chairman, Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Mr. Waheed Oloyede, advocated that the programme must ensure transparency and sustainability, in order not to lose the purpose of its introduction.   

On their Part, representative of the Pensions Funds Administrators, Mr. Wale Adeniran and Mrs. Olubukola Orenuga, described the Contributory Pension Scheme as the best in order to ensure sustainability and transparency.    

 Some of the beneficiaries, Mr. Olaifa Idowu and Mrs. Osikoya Ekundayo, appreciated the Governor for his endless support towards the senior citizens by making life better especially with the current economic situation in the country.   

 

Sururat Odusanya,   

 Information and Public Relations Officer, Bureau of State Pensions

GIVE TO GAIN: BLS CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

          The Bureau of Lands and Survey (BLS) has celebrated International Women’s Day with a call for greater recognition of women’s contributions to land administration, surveying and public service.

          Speaking at the event, at the Bureau, Director-General and Special Adviser, Bureau of Lands and Survey, Arch. Segun Fowora, commended female staffers for their dedication, professionalism and leadership in a field that demanded precision and commitment.

    He noted that women in the Bureau had continue to play vital roles both on the field operations and policy development.

           Arch.Fowora, represented by the Consultant to the Governor on Land Matters, ESV Fatai Adegboyejo, said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Give to Gain,” reflected the essence of womanhood and the spirit of selfless service, women bring to their families, workplaces and the society.

          The Director-General/Special Adviser stressed that the roles of women in community development and institutional growth could not be wished away, while also appreciating female staffers of the Bureau for their contributions to the advancement of the organisation and the development of the State.

          Also speaking, Surveyor-General of the Bureau of Lands and Survey, Surveyor Oladele Ewulo, described International Women’s Day as an important opportunity to celebrate the resilience, brilliance and achievements of women across the world.

          According to him, the Bureau would continue to create pathways for progress and provide opportunities that would enable women to thrive professionally.

          In her welcome address, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Olamide Sokoya, appreciated the Director-General for his support and immense contributions at ensuring the success of the celebration, noting that empowering women across different sectors was essential to building stronger institutions and more sustainable communities.

          The Director of Land Services, ESV. Adewale Adedeji, also highlighted the significant roles women play in the societies, noting that their impact extended beyond professional responsibilities to the home and wider communities.

           Introducing the theme for the year, the Director of Land Management, ESV Adedoyin Okulalu noted that the significance of women in shaping societies and nurturing future generations could not be underestimated, as women carry out multidimensional roles with grace as well as remaining pillars of support at the home front, adding that if women were celebrated every single day, it would still not measure up the depth of their contributions and countless sacrifices they make for their families, communities and humanity as a whole.

          Delivering a lecture titled “Strength of a Woman,” Surveyor Mrs. Halimat Yusuf explained that the concept of ‘Give to Gain’ was rooted in cultural values that encourage generosity, cooperation, inclusivity love and collective progress, noting that the world would to celebrate the courage and achievements of women who had made impacts in their communities, countries and the world at large.

The event featured cutting of the Anniversary cake and exchange of gifts among staffers as part of activities marking the celebration and reinforcing the theme “Give to Gain.”