Your Role Is Crucial To People's Well-Being - Elemide Admonishes Health Workers

A call has gone to medical personnel leading health facilities across Ogun State to see their roles as health care providers as one that is very crucial to the well-being of the people of the State.

This was the submission of the Permanent Secretary, Hospitals Management Board, Dr. Nike Elemide during the official opening of a six month Nufficc-TMT Step Down Training on Adaptive Governance for Healthcare Workers on Leadership and Management organized by participants from State Hospital, Ijaiye and Oba Ademola Maternity Hospital, Abeokuta held at the NHIS Conference Room, State Hospital, Ijaiye Abeokuta.

Dr. Elemide who was represented by the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics of the Board, Dr. Wellington Ogunsanya said the health sector in Ogun State under the leadership of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker prioritizes human development and cannot over emphasize the importance of training and retraining of health workers for effective and efficient health care delivery.

Speaking on "Leadership and Management", Elemide disclosed that, "as a leader and manager, your purpose is to mobilize and empower your subordinate because the collective goal of the team is to achieve the desired result".

Lending his voice, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Kayode Oladehinde admonished leaders to have a productive mindset and goals that will positively drive the organization.

Dr. Oladehinde who was represented by the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Ministry of Health, Dr. Bamiselu Oluyomi added that as leaders, things that will help the entire team to achieve the set goals should be their focus advising that the progress of all team members should be constantly monitored.

In a lecture titled, "Leading and Managing to Achieve Results", the duo of the Chief Medical Director, Dr. Bababunmi Osinaike and a Senior Medical Officer, State Hospital, Ijaiye, Dr. Folashade Bamgboye disclosed that leaders must have a mindset shift from individualism to collaborative actions and not only to see or identify the problems but also to create and proffer solutions. 

Also in their submissions, Pharm. Aina - Alagbala, ADNS Taiwo Florence and Dr. Mrs. Olufunke Oyeneye encouraged leaders to facilitate improved work climate to strengthen team's performance while enjoining all to engage actively and make good use of the training.

GOV. ABIODUN APPROVES NCE RESOLUTIONS FOR OGUN WORKERS

Determined to continue to improve the welfare of its workforce for optimum performance, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has graciously approved the domestication of some resolutions in line with the National Council on Establishments (NCE) guideline into the Civil Service. 

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya made the disclosure when the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogun State Council led by its Chairman, Comrade Hameed Ademola-Benco paid a courtesy visit to the Office of the Head of Service.

According to him, the governor who remains a worker-friendly, focused, responsible and responsive leader has approved the lateral conversion to corresponding officers cadre for Information Officers who will now be addressed as Information/Public Relations Officers, as well as entry points of Graduate Nurses and Engineers to GL10 and GL09 respectivey, amongst other resolutions to further boost the morale of the workers.

Mr. Onasanya said the welfare of the workers is paramount as various concerns were being addressed.

According to him, government has paid the workers' deductions from July 2022 till date and poised to clear outstanding ones between March 2021 and June 2022, while leave allowances have also been settled from January 2023 till date and arrears being worked upon for clearance, adding that July salaries have equally been paid.

Laying credence to the proactive nature of the administration, the Head of Service said Ogun was the first state in the South West to come up with diverse palliative measures to cushion the effect of the increase in pump prices, has made capacity building second to none in its scheme of schedules and has not neglected their healthcare through the approval of 50 percent cost to be borne by the government to make healthcare accessible to all through the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme of the government.

"On the issue of consequential adjustments raised, I want to inform you that the two committees set up to look into it have concluded their reports which would be looked into", the HoS said.

He assured that his office would continue to leverage on the cordial relationship between it and the labour unions towards enhancing the welfare of the workers whom they are all responsible to, stressing the strong antecedent of Governor as worker friendly .

Earlier in his submission, the Chairman, NLC, Comrade Ademola-Benco said the visit was to appreciate the Head of Service for the opportunity to engage him directly, especially on matters that impact on the welfare of the workforce.

While thanking the State Government for its unflinching support towards the welfare of workers, Comrade Ademola-Benco listed some demands to include consequential adjustments on monthly pensions, the contributory pension scheme, release of all deductions and leave allowances among others.

Also speaking , the 2nd Vice Chairman, NLC, Mrs. Bidemi Alafiatayo, appreciated the Governor Dapo Abiodun led administration for being a worker-friendly governor whose workers' welfare is paramount to, as exemplified by the various welfare packages.  

Omolara Osindele & Tunde Olayiwola

Office of the Head of Service

2024 LG ELECTIONS TIMETABLE, GUIDELINES NOT FROM OGSIEC - OSIBODU

The Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has debunked the circulation of a timetable and Electoral Guidelines in the social media space, regarding the 2024 Local Government Elections for Chairmanship and Councilorship positions in the State.

A release signed by the Chairman of the Commission, Mr. babatunde Osibodu stated that the information was false and did not originate from the Commission.

 The release further enjoined all relevant stakeholders and the general public to disregard the information.

All necessary information in respect to 2024 LG elections in the 20 local government areas and 236 wards in the State, according to the release, would be provided by the Commission in due course.

EFFECTIVE PUBLIC AND MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP WILL ENHANCE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY- MEDICAL EXPERT

The need for effective management and mutual relationship between healthcare providers and patients within the hospital environment has been emphasised.

 The Assistant Director Nursing Services, Oba Ademola Maternity Hospital, Florence Taiwo, made this known in Abeokuta, at the 5th edition of the Continuing Education Seminar with the theme, "Public Relation: An Integral Part of Nursing Practice", organised by the Abeokuta Health Zone Nursing Department, Idi-Aba.

Taiwo, who was also the guest lecturer, said nurses, among others require effective communication skills, to actively carry patients along in the discharge of their duties.

 She admonished the participants to be sensitive and empathetic to the needs and plights of patients for the delivery of effective healthcare services, enjoining them to give timely responses to their complaints and be cheerful at all times.

Contributing, Director of Nursing Services, State Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta, Comrade Abiodun Olakanmi, represented by the Head of Department, Nursing Services in the hospital, Assistant Director Nursing Services Kuburat Bamgbose, stated that continuous capacity building of health practitioners would broaden their horizons, appreciating the organiser for the seminar.

Earlier, the Assistant Director Nursing Services, Oluremi Mosuro said learning is dynamic, hence the need to constantly refresh one’s knowledge to enhance the overall health system.

Femi Osipitan,

Press Officer, HMB

APPOINTMENT OF NEW PERMANENT SECRETARY, PRINCIPALS-GENERAL AND CONDUCT OF SWEARING-IN CEREMONY

In his continued effort towards maintaining an efficient, responsive and dynamic Public Service that meets the needs of Government and supports the overall development of the Ogun State, the Governor, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, has approved the appointment of *one (1) new Permanent Secretary* and *four (4) new Principals-General* in the Public Service of the State.

The appointment was made by His Excellency, the Governor with due recourse to the provision of Section 208 (c) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and having considered merit, professionalism, seniority and division of origin in the Public Service of the State. While the Permanent Secretary was selected from the pool of successful Directors in the Ogun State Pipeline Leadership Development Programme, the four (4) Principals-General were selected following their exceptional performances at the intensive interview sessions attended by a total of twenty (20) Principals drawn from a shortlist of five (5) candidates from each of the four (4) Divisions.

The new Permanent Secretary is *Mrs. Kehinde Olutoyin JOKOTOYE*, Director (Agric.), GL. 17 who prior to her appointment was serving as the State Project Coordinator of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone. The Principals-General, on the other hand, include *Mr. Ige Babatunde Oluseye* for Egba Division, *Mr. Yusuf Babatunji Adeola* for Ijebu Division, *Dr. (Mrs.) Womiloju Ayodele Olubunmi* for Remo Division and *Mr. Bankole Taoreed Ajaniade* for Yewa Division.

Prior to their appointment, all the Principals-General - designate were on the Grade of Principal Special Grade I, GL 17, serving as Principals in various Secondary Schools in the State. While Mr. Ige was the Principal of Anglican Grammar School, (Junior), Okenla-Ifo, Ifo and Mr. Yusuf, the Principal of Methodist Comprehensive College (Senior), Sagamu; Dr. (Mrs.) Womiloju and Mr. Bankole were Principals of Methodist Comprehensive College (Junior), Sagamu and Salawu Abiola Comprehensive High School, Odeda, respectively. 

The Swearing-in Ceremony of the new Permanent Secretary, the Principals-General and that of *Mrs. Adejumoke Oluwatoyin Adewole, Permanent Secretary-Designate* shall be conducted by the Governor of Ogun State, His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON at the State Executive Chamber, Governor’s Office, Oke Mosan, Abeokuta on Tuesday, 16th July, 2024 by 12noon prompt. All members of the State Executive Council, new appointees and guests are enjoined to be seated at the venue of the Ceremony by 11:30am.

Many thanks.

Kehinde O. Onasanya

Head of Service, Ogun State

15th July, 2024.

OGSG WILL CONTINUE TO ACCORD PRIORITY TO WORKERS' WELFARE, HoS

Members of Staff of the Bureau of Service Matters, Office of the Head of Service and by extension the entire Civil/Public Servants have been assured that the present administration under Prince Dapo Abiodun would continue to accord the welfare and wellbeing of the workers priority.

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya gave the assurance during a meeting with the members of staff of the Bureau held at the Conference Room of the Head of Service, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

According to him, the Governor has not reneged on his promises to better the wellbeing of the workers but has been working assiduously to fulfill them through various interventions, including prompt payment of salaries as at when due, sales of rice at discounted rate, provision of CNG buses, amongst others being enjoyed by the workers to cushion the effects of the increase in pump price.

The Head of Service revealed that the Governor will continue to appreciate the commitment and diligence of the workers to promote efficiency and capacity development as demonstrated to the automobile Engineers and Technicians at the Government's Central Mechanical Workshop who distinguished themselves by bringing back to the roads unused government vehicles in line with the administration's maintenance culture.

He added that training and retraining will also be unparalleled as Ogun State Civil Service prides itself as one of the best in the country, thus, standards laid down by the founding fathers must not be compromised by the workers but must be sustained and even surpassed.

Mr. Onasanya commended the workers for their support and contributions to the State via their Bureau which has translated to the quality achievements recorded and reiterated government's commitment to their welfare as well as genuine concern for the improvement of their working conditions.

"Governor Abiodun's administration is committed to recognising and appreciating the hardwork and dedication of workers, which underscores the administration's commitment to motivating them for greater efficiency. I therefore urge you all to reciprocate this kind gesture by making punctuality, discipline and dedication to duty your watchwords", the HoS said.

He encouraged the members of staff to evolve initiatives that would further enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of their agency which will in turn contribute meaningfully to the continued implementation of the 'Building Our Future Together' agenda of the present administration.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Service Matters, Mr. Oladipupo Ogunfowora said the meeting was meant to address the workers' challenges and interact with the Number One Civil Servant before his train moves to Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government in order to ensure smooth running of government activities.

In separate interviews, the Director, Administration and Supplies in the Bureau, Mrs. Bamidele Adeyemi, a Confidential Secretary, Mrs. Bolaji Adewale, as well as Mr. Vincent Job appreciated the State Government for various interventions to make the workers deliver optimally at their duty posts and pledged unalloyed loyalty, commitment and dedication to duties.

Omolara Osindele & Tunde Olayiwola

Office of the Head of Service

OGUN FLAGS-OFF DATA-DRIVEN INITIATIVE FOR RAPID DEVELOPMENT

Ogun State government has launched an initiative tagged, Ogun State General Household and Community Survey (OGH&CS), targeted at data-driven governance.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, said the survey was first of its kind in the state, designed to provide comprehensive insights into the living conditions, economic activities and social dynamics of households and communities.

Mr. Okubadejo explained that the initiative was a cornerstone of the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), of the present administration, noting that it underscores the government's commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

“The survey will equip the state with necessary data for strategic planning and policy-making that would address the real needs of the citizens, allocate resources more effectively, and implement policies that foster equitable development. It will help the government to identify gaps and improve resource allocation across all communities, ensuring that every area, regardless of size or location, benefits from developmental initiatives”, he said.

He reaffirmed the administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and progress, calling on residents to embrace the OGH&CS initiative with enthusiasm and a shared sense of purpose, highlighting the power of data in achieving meaningful change.

Contributing, his counterpart in Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, highlighted data collection, resource allocation, policy formulation and urban and rural coverage, as the objectives of the survey, reiterating that such a comprehensive data would aid rapid development across the 20 Local Government Areas.

In his remarks, the Statistician-General for the state, Mr. Tunde Ajayi, commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for creating an enabling environment that would cater for households and communities, saying it was essential to leverage official data for state planning and decision-making.

OGSG TO PROVIDE SCHOLARSHIPS TO ENCOURAGE GIRLS IN ENGINEERING COURSES

In its bid to promote engineering among female students and reduce gender gap in the engineering sector, while also addressing manpower shortage in technical colleges, Ogun State government is set to give scholarships to 1000 girls, willing to pursue engineering courses in technical colleges across the state.

This was made known by the acting Executive Secretary, Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board (OGSTVEB), Mr. Olubori Akinleye, in an interview with newsmen in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Akinleye hinted that the three-year scholarship was aimed at encouraging more girls to take up engineering courses and promote gender equality in all fields, adding that the gesture would ease their financial burden and support academic pursuit.

He urged girls to take advantage of the opportunity to pursue their dreams in engineering, pointing out that Ogun was poised to become a hub for technical education and industrial growth in Nigeria.

Speaking further, the acting Executive Secretary said government is set to employ 200 interns to fill existing vacancies in the state’s Technical Colleges, and they would be engaged for an initial period of two years, deployed to different technical colleges and afterward secure permanent appointments.

“This initiative shows the state government's commitment to providing quality technical education, promote industrial growth, and address gender imbalance in the engineering sector”, he said.

 

Busola Morakinyo,

Press Officer, TVET

EFFECTIVE PUBLIC AND MUTUAL RELATIONSHIP WILL ENHANCE HEALTHCARE DELIVERY- MEDICAL EXPERT

The need for effective public and mutual relationship between healthcare providers and patients within the hospital environment has been emphasised.

 The Assistant Director Nursing Services, Oba Ademola Maternity Hospital, Florence Taiwo, made this known in Abeokuta, at the 5th edition of the Continuing Education Seminar with the theme, "Public Relation: An Integral Part of Nursing Practice", organised by the Abeokuta Health Zone Nursing Department, Idi-Aba.

Taiwo, who was also the guest lecturer, said nurses, among others require effective communication skills, to actively carry patients along in the discharge of their duties.

 She admonished the participants to be sensitive and empathetic to the needs and plights of patients for the delivery of effective healthcare services, enjoining them to give timely responses to their complaints and be cheerful at all times.

Contributing, the Director of Nursing Services, Hospitals Management Board,. Comrade Abiodun Olakanmi who was represented by the Head of Department, Nursing Services, State Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta, Assistant Director Nursing Services Kuburat Bamgbose, stated that continuous capacity building of health practitioners would broaden their horizons, appreciating the organiser for the seminar.

Earlier, the Assistant Director Nursing Services, Oluremi Mosuro said learning is dynamic, hence the need to constantly refresh one’s knowledge to enhance the overall health system.

 

Femi Osipitan,

Press Officer, HMB

OGHASC CHARGES COMMITTEE CLERKS ON PROFESSIONALISM

The Chairman, Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, Hon. Waliu Taiwo has charged the committee clerks in the Ogun State House of Assembly to discharge their services accordingly to the best of their abilities. 

The Chairman made this known during a 2-day training, organised by the Ogun State House of Assembly Service Commission, held at conference room, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. 

Hon. Taiwo mentioned that the success of every organisation lies on the quality of her workforce with regular exposure to quality training and opportunity for them to express themselves. 

Speaking, the Executive Secretary, House of Assembly Service Commission, Mr. Taiwo Opaleye noted that the committee clerks should see the training as an opportunity to equip themselves with the needed skills for work efficiency. 

In his message, the Clerk of the House of Assembly, Mr. Sakiru Adebakin, who was represented by the Director of Bills, Ogun State House of Assembly, Mr. Fatai Ayodeji emphasised that learning should be a continuous process so as to positively affect service delivery at the workplace. 

Contributing, the Commissioner 1, House of Assembly Service Commission, Dr. Ibidapo Odukoya applauded the training organising team for the job well done while encouraging the participants to reflect on all gained at the programme.

Responding, on behalf of the participants, the duo of Mr. Oyebade Elegbede and Miss.Wunmi Fashina hailed the Commission for the training, noting that knowledge gained would be used in the interpretation of the rules of the House so as to ensure professionalism.

OGUN GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO PPP TO DRIVE ECONOMIC DEVT- HoS

Ogun State Government has continued  to  harness the potential of Public Private Sector Partnerships to drive significant developments in line with the vision of Prince Dapo Abiodun - led administration's agenda to create the enabling environment for business which is fundamental to the creation of an enduring economic development and individual prosperity of the people of the State.

The State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya stated this at the launch of a book titled "Practical Guide to Public Private Partnership Arrangement in Nigeria" authored by a Lawyer, Adebisi Sogunle, held at the Waterfalls Event and Conference Centre, Lagos State.

According to the Head of Service, since the PPP law was passed in Ogun State in 2019, one of the primary benefits has been the efficient use of resources by leveraging on private investment to finance projects, pointing out that notable projects which include the Ogun State Agro Cargo Airport, Housing Development projects, Energy Generation among others have continued to thrive, coupled with the conducive atmosphere created for PPP which has placed the State solidly as the industrial capital of Nigeria.

Onasanya explained that key road networks have also been rehabilitated and expanded  through  PPP including the reconstruction of the Ijebu-Ode - Epe Expressway while the Abeokuta - Ota-Lagos Expressway would  be rehabilitated through a concessioning arrangement based on efficient resource management.

He said the present administration of  Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration has also embarked on massive rehabilitation and reconstruction of many roads across the state, pointing out that while many communities have benefited from road projects, efforts  have been geared  towards rehabilitating  roads in many locations in the State

He added that pragmatic approach to massive road rehabilitation  include strategic engagement with critical stakeholders including Royal Fathers, community and  religious leaders as well as  lawmakers at State and Federal level among others, adding that not less  than 120 roads, spread across the 20 local governments in the State, were submitted for rehabilitation while works have commenced in many locations. 

The Head of Service said  the State is also collaborating  with  the Federal  Ministry of Works for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of additional 14  roads in line with the resolve to bring succour to the people.

Also Speaking, the Former Minister for Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed said governments accross the  world are very keen on using PPPs to deliver infrastructure and public services in order to find more ways to meet the huge demand for infrastucture financing as traditional public funding sources always fall short of the investment needed.

He commended the commitment and proactive steps of Prince Dapo Abiodun - led administration which led to the FG approval of the concessioning of Abeokuta - Ota-Lagos expressway to the State, describing it as a step in the right direction which is also capable of generating employment opportunities and grow the economy.

Speaking in an interview, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Dr. Chris Iziguzor said the PPP initiative has assisted Ogun State in achieving much in the area of infrastructural development, and added that the arrangement in turn brought in more investors and provided job opportunities for the citizens.

In his response, the Author, Pst. Adebisi Sogunle said the book will help in examining the roles of stakeholders because they have the responsibility to maintain the environment when political, economic and administrative concerns arise while partnering.

He described the publication as a valuable resource that will guide the public and private sectors in navigating the complexities of PPP arrangement in the country.

At the event which was well attended by members of the organised private sectors and Top Government Functionaries from Lagos, Oyo and Cross River State also has in attendance Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olu - Ola Aikulola, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Rural Development, Mr Seyi Sokoya and Permanent Secretary, Bureau of State Pension, Mrs Arinola Adetayo who were on the entourage of the Head of Service.

Omolara Osindele & Tunde Olayiwola

OGUN BEGINS INSTALLATION OF SOLAR-POWERED STREET LIGHTS

Ogun State Bureau of Electrical Engineering Services (BEES), has commenced installation of solar-powered street lights in Abeokuta, the state capital.

Recall that the state government earlier promised to replace all stolen and destroyed street lights along Siun-Kobape axis of the state and its environs to further enhance security of lives and property.

This was disclosed by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Energy Matters, Mr. Olufemi Omisanjo in a chat with newsmen in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, informed that the areas earmarked for the installation of solar street light panel include, NNPC to Moore Junction on Abiola Way, Ibara, Omida, Ake , all in Abeokuta, as well as Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Sango-Ota and Ilaro.

Mr. Omisanjo assured that all nooks and crannies of the state would be properly lit, to ensure even distribution of the amenities across the state, explaining that installation of solar-powered street lights was imperative to put in place a sustainable measure aimed at achieving the economic-based powerhouse as proposed by the government.

‘’Most of the street lights currently in place are power generated-based, due to the harsh economic realities around the world alongside the constant vandalisation of the amenity by miscreants, it is important to put in place solar powered-street light on our major road as a means of saving cost and deterrents to criminals.

 "To serve as a testament that the Ogun State government has the interest of the people at heart, we will provide a functional solar panel street light system across the three Senatorial Districts, as it is an essential service in ensuring safety of lives and property of our people in the state", he said.

The Governor aide noted that energy is the life plug of any economy-driven assuring that various security measures had been done to prevent it from being vandalised or stolen.

In their remarks, the representative of Iyaloja, Kuto market, Mrs. Toyin Odesina and a trader, Mr. Ojo Jinadu, said the power project would improve business and commercial activities in the market and its environs, appreciating the government’s gesture at improving the well-being of the people.

Shobo Mosunmola,

Press Officer, BEES

WHY WE ARE TRANSFORMING OUR TECHNICAL EDUCATION - OGSG

     Ogun State government says the ongoing transformation in the Vocational and Technical Sector is to enhance employability and drive economic growth in the state and country.

Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, said this during a five-day workshop at Simeon Adebo Library, Kuto, Abeokuta, organised by the Ogun State Technical and Vocational Education Board (OGSTVEB), to review and validate the National Technical Certificate (NTC) curriculum and National Occupation Standard (NOS) for the newly introduced trades.

Arigbabu, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Mariam Oloko, noted that the present administration had embarked on innovative capacity building for Technical Instructors and Teachers, while rehabilitation of technical and vocational schools across the state was in the pipeline.

Speaking further, the Commissioner said the present administration’s quest to transform the technical sector for the next generation of workers with skills to thrive in the highly competitive world, adding that the introduction of new trades in technical school curriculum would ensure economic growth, and equip students with cutting-edge skills

In his remarks, the Acting Executive Secretary, OGSTVEB, Mr. Olubori Akinleye applauded the resource persons for their inputs in the review of the curriculum, saying the contributions by different experts and professional education bodies, would enable students to gain valuable skills, creativity and practical experience, to prepare them adequately for the industrial world.

In his comment, a member of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), Dr. John Onyebuchi, lauded the dedication of the resource experts, noting that their outstanding contributions in reviewing the curriculum were impressive.

Responding, TVET Specialist Consultant, Ogun State Economic Transformation Project, Mr. Unyime Eyo, said introduction of the new trades demonstrates the state government's commitment to providing quality technical education that would prepare students ahead.

On his part, Chairman, Nigerian Association of Small, and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Ogun State Chapter, Dr. Akinwumi Alonge, emphasised the value of various trades in preparing students for industrial growth, while highlighting the significance of building ornamental craft in construction industry, while a Lecturer in the Department of Plant Physiology and Crop Production Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Dr. Sobowale Soremi pointed out that Agronomy Craft was important to sustainable agriculture and food security.

Busola Morakinyo,

OGIS.