OGSIEC BOSS EULOGISES LATE INEC COMMISSIONER

 Chairman, Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, has described the late Ogun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barr. Niyi Ijalaye, as a distinguished scholar, an accomplished leader and a legal luminary of great repute, whose career was marked by unwavering diligence, commitment and integrity.

Mr. Osibodu stated this during a condolence visit to the Independent Electoral Commission’s (INEC) office in Abeokuta, saying the late Barr. Ijalaye discharged his duties diligently since his posting to Ogun State in March, 2022.

Represented by one of the Commissioners at OGSIEC, Mr. Olatunji Akoni, Osibodu said the deceased played a significant role in strengthening the cooperation and collaboration between INEC and OGSIEC.

“His contributions were instrumental in fostering seamless coordination and advancing our shared objectives. On behalf of the entire management and staff of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission. I extend our deepest sympathies to the INEC staff and Ijalaye family, while we pray that the Almighty God grants you the strength to bear this irreparable loss”, he said.

Responding, Head of Department, Account and Finance, INEC, Alhaja Rabbiat Akinola, appreciated the management of the Commission for the visit, pledging continued support to the state electoral body.

The visit has the Permanent Secretary, OGSIEC, Engr. Olabode Ojetola and other management staff in attendance.

WE ‘LL CONDUCT INDEPENDENT, TRANSPARENT LG ELECTIONS - OGSIEC

As the political atmosphere intensifies ahead of the 2024 Local Government (LG) Elections, Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), has reassured the public of its commitment to an independent and transparent electoral process.

Speaking during a radio programme at Ijebu-Ode, the Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, said the Commission would adhere strictly to the guidelines, as approved by the state House of Assembly in conducting the LG elections.

Mr. Osibodu disclosed that ongoing party primaries would run from August 26 to September 9, 2024, urging all political parties to visit the OGSIEC Headquarters at Oke-Ilewo, to register and conduct their primaries, which he noted would be closely observed by the Commission.

Addressing concerns regarding the administrative fee, Osibodu clarified that the fee was not intended as a revenue-generating measure for the state government, explaining that, "the fee ensures that parties are more committed to the election, putting in their best efforts to win. This fee is backed by law, and similar practices are in place in other states".

The OGSIEC Chairman emphasised that OGSIEC was not responsible for voter registration, informing that the process was under the purview of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) which periodically releases the voters' list for the 236 wards in the state.

 He acknowledged voter apathy as a significant challenge in the political landscape, stating that, "It is the responsibility of political parties to canvas for votes and mobilise the electorate. If the electoral body ensures everything is in place, but the parties fail to campaign, voter turnout will inevitably be low".

Mr. Osibodu stressed the importance of voter security, noting that, "If people do not feel secure, they will not come out to vote. We are collaborating with all security agencies to ensure that every polling unit is well-secured. This is why a restriction of movement is typically enforced on election day, with law enforcement agencies present to address any acts of misconduct".

AIM FOR GREATER HEIGHTS, AG TELLS NEWLY EMPLOYED

50 newly employed Auditors in the Ogun State Civil Service, have been urged to aim for greater heights, demonstrate positive actions towards work, as well as acquire higher professional qualifications for efficient service delivery.

The state Auditor-General, Mr. Lateef Balogun, made the call while declaring open a five-day orientation and training programme for the newly employed staff, at the Auditors-General Office Conference Hall, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, saying the aim of the workshop was to introduce them to the organisational structure and operations, as well as the code of ethics in the Civil Service.

Mr. Balogun added that the platform would acquaint and prepare the officers for the daunting tasks ahead of their careers, congratulating them for scaling through the selection process.

          The Auditor-General expressed appreciation of the agency to the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for granting the approval to employ the officers enjoining the new members to devote their all, as they would be taken through the rudiments of their career development and work ethics, which were needed to navigate the Civil Service and their professional career.

Speaking, the Director of Revenue and Stores, Mr. Ahmed Adetona, explained the training was organised to capture all the statutory duties of the various departments in the Auditor-General's Office, charging the new officers to buckle down as professionals, as part of criteria for promotion to Grade Level 13 entails obtaining professional certificates in relevant courses.

On his part, the Director of Schools Account, Mr. Akeem Towolawi, tasked the newly employed Auditors to be accountable, punctual, responsible, respectful and diligent at their duty posts.

In a paper titled, "Code of Conduct", the Deputy Director, Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Adebukunola Osilana, noted that severe sanctions await any employee who breaches the code of conduct or indulge in practices that could bring the service to disrepute, advising the Auditors to shun such acts.

Contributing, the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr. Jimoh Ayobami, in a paper on, "Examination on Pensions File", highlighted the rudiments of treating Pension files, enjoining the officers to be painstaking while preparing them.

Responding on behalf of the newly employed Auditors, Mr. Olukayode Onabanjo, expressed gratitude to God and the state government for being employed into the state Civil Service, pledging to uphold integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties to ensure accountability.

GOV. ABIODUN APPLAUDS GATEWAY MORTGAGE BANK FOR EFFICIENT SERVICE DELIVERY

           Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commended the management of Gateway Mortgage Bank for the transformation of the Bank into a financially stable entity through its professionalism and ethics of the banking industry.

 Governor Abiodun gave the commendation during the 7th Annual General Meeting of the Bank, at Mitros Residence, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, emphasising the importance of efficiency in financial institutions, particularly in optimising deposits and resources to maximise profits.

The governor said the Bank had played a pivotal role in housing development across the state, through the provision of accessible mortgage solutions that enable people to enjoy affordable housing, thereby contributing to the state’s economic growth and improved standard of living of residents.

Represented by the Commissioner for Finance and Chief Economic Adviser, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, Abiodun underscored his administration’s proactive approach to implementing policies that address the housing needs of the people, while creating business opportunities for financial institutions like Gateway Mortgage Bank.

He highlighted the present government's initiatives on housing development to include, provision of various housing units across the state and enhanced administrative processes, such as the unbundling of Ogun State Land Administration and Revenue Management System (OLARMS), to fast-track the acquisition of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O), saying the move was to redesign and attract the private sector developers, to complement government’s efforts in ensuring affordable housing and creating wealth.

"We are resolute in our determination to ensure that housing, which is a very important aspect of social well-being for our people is continuously supported through our policies and initiatives. We have seen significant growth in the activities of our Gateway Mortgage Bank, not just compared to last year, but since 2019, when we took over”, he said.

Earlier, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank, Evang. Samuel Durojaiye, expressed gratitude to the current administration, as well as Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government for their support, which had turnaround the bank for the better.

Durojaiye revealed that the Bank had disbursed over one billion naira as loans to 466 clients, including Public and Civil Servants and private individuals, as well as facilitated mortgage financing for properties at Kobape and Prince Court Estates.

He further highlighted the Bank’s partnerships with other financial institutions, such as the Nigerian Mortgage Financing Company and the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, which had bolstered its capacity to support a larger number of people interested in mortgage financing, assuring its higher financial performance in subsequent years, as well as disbursement of maiden dividends to shareholders by the end of the current financial year.

Abiodun Flags-Off Harvest of 200 Hectares of Rice in Ogun

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has pledged support for rice production towards the generation of 30 billion naira revenue for rice farmers in Magboro area of the State.

Speaking on Monday, at the flag off for the harvest of 200 hectares of rice farmland under the World Bank supported Ogun State Economic Transformation Project in Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area of the state, the Governor noted that the State is joining states like Lagos, Kebbi, and Bayelsa in producing locally grown rice not only for the consumption of the people, but for economic development, creating jobs, and improving livelihoods within the communities.

He said, “This is a 200-hectare rice farm. The farmers are mainly women and youths from all parts of the country and not just from Ogun State alone.

“Each farmer was allocated one hectare of farmland; this means that we have 200 farmers in this cluster. This project started in April this year. They began planting in May, and today we are already harvesting, making it a three-month cycle. It means that we can do this three times a year.”

Abiodun noted that the farm, with a seven metric ton yield per hectare, could translate to 1,400 metric tons for 200 hectares of milled rice with an efficiency yield of about 70 percent, which would also translate to about 20,000 bags of milled rice per cycle.

He said, “20,000 bags of milled rice per cycle should be estimated to cost about N1 billion. So, these 200 farmers, made up of women and youths across the country who farm here in just three months, have a revenue of N1 billion. If they do this three times this year, they will earn N3 billion. We have no business being hungry in Nigeria.

“In this place, I have 12,500 hectares of land, and all we have farmed is 200 hectares that yielded N1 billion for 200 farmers. From here, I can feed the rest of the country. We will scale up this project immediately from 200 to 2,000 hectares. We can generate N30 billion in revenue. We can take significant steps towards realizing that vision of making Ogun State the food basket of this country.”

The governor stated that the project is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s administration resolve to eradicate poverty and hunger by providing affordable food to Nigerians, adding that the project, apart from increasing rice production, would also address animal husbandry.

Abiodun emphasized that the state is blessed with adequate manpower and natural resources, stating that agriculture remains an important agenda of his administration as it provides employment and raw materials for the numerous industries that abound in the state.

While lauding the people, especially members of the communities for supporting the project, the governor promised that the farm would be provided with solar pumps to power the boreholes, as well as modern drones for effective pest control.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Bolu Owotomo, said the project was in tandem with the agricultural policy of the Abiodun-led administration: ensuring food sufficiency for the people.

The Commissioner for Finance, Dapo Okubadejo, while commending the farmers for their determination, noted that the project is part of the agenda of producing food locally to feed the populace.

The Project Coordinator, Mrs Mosun Owo-Odusi, said the project, which aims to produce high-quality rice, would positively impact the lives of citizens in all sectors, appreciating the governor for providing the necessary support.

In his goodwill message, the Olu of Magboro, Oba Modiu Alalade, acknowledged the great impact the project has on the communities in the area, stating that the town has enough farmland to accommodate more farmers to produce sufficient food for the country.

Cultural Extinction: Ogun HoS Seeks Preservation of State's Values

...decorates 2024 NUJ R.I.Y.E Cultural Icons 

The Ogun State Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Kehinde Olufemi Onasanya, has called for the preservation of the State’s cultural values affirming that the present administration in the State under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun would not relent at holding cultural heritage in high esteem across the State.

Mr. Onasanya made the call at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta during a two in one event organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel to Celebrate the First Year In Office of Comrade Femi Osipitan led administration and also to decorate the 2024 NUJ R.I.Y.E Cultural Icons.

The Head of Service, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Dr. Sam Oyeleye, noted that the celebration was in tandem with the present administration’s agenda in promoting cultural activities in the State.

While commending the Chapel for initiating such an event, Mr. Onasanya pointed out that the idea of promoting the usage of our native language, wearing of our native attire, eating of our native food and singing our native songs amongst others would remain a vital tool for sustaining the rich cultural heritage in the four zones of Remo, Ijebu , Yewa and Egba (R.I.Y.E) which makes up the State enjoining parents to continually inculcate rich cultural values and traditions in their wards.

Speaking, the duo of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Waheed Adesina, represented by the Director of Information, Public Enlightenment, Mr. Seyi Oladimeji, and his counterpart from the Ministry of Sports Development, Mr. Lanre Ogunyinka described the event as laudable, saying it would further boost socio-cultural values of the people while underscoring the role of Information Officers in the dissemination of government activities, which had impacted positively on the State.

The Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju who applauded the Chapel leadership for making the Union proud and the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration for approving the resolutions of the National Council on Establishment in the State called on government to look into the establishment of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations for effective dissemination of government activities.

Earlier in his address, Chairman of the Chapel, Comrade Femi Osipitan, intimated that the event was borne out of the desire to ensure that culture does not go into extinction, saying, “the only way to preserve our future is to embrace our culture”.

The Cultural Icons honourees, Comr. Adeyinka Musa Richard (Cultural Icon Female); Comr.Femi Olayinka (Cultural Icon Male) and Comr. Joy Ogbodo (Cultural Icon, Non-Yoruba), appreciated the organisers for the honour bestowed on them, saying the event would always remind them of their heritage. Highlight of the event was the decorations, presentation of awards and gifts to the honourees.

Ogun HoS, Onasanya, Others Set to Honour Media Constituency

... confirm attendance of NUJ Information Chapel Event

The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Olufemi Onasanya has  confirmed his attendance of the two in one celebration of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel; First Year In Office Celebration of Comrade 'Femi Osipitan led administration and the Decoration of the 2024 NUJ R.I.Y.E Cultural Icons.

Onasanya who made this known while speaking with the leadership of the Chapel disclosed that, "though my schedule is so tight, but I will create the time to honor the invitation, give my remarks and help to decorate the Cultural Icons".

The number one Civil Servant in the State who is the first Information Officer in the entire South Western States of the federation to attain the position of Head of Service is a proud member of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel.

In the same vein, the Permanent Secretaries, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Waheed Adesina, that of Ministry of Environment, Dr. Sam Oyeleye and their counterpart in the Ministry of Youths Development, Comrade Lanre Ogunyinka have also given their words to honour their first Constituency among other expected dignitaries.

Appreciating the Head of Service and the Permanent Secretaries for the honor and support, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel, Comrade 'Femi Osipitan said, "I am so honoured and blessed to have these calibre of people and many more as members" adding that their support and words of encouragement have kept the Chapel leadership going.

Osipitan noted that the event scheduled to hold on Monday, 19th August, 2024 would start by 11am at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre, Oke - Mosan, Abeokuta enjoining members to be seated by 10:30am.

Femi Osipitan

OGSIEC CLARIFIES ADMINISTRATIVE FEE TARGETED AT POLITICAL PARTIES, NOT CANDIDATES

 Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has clarified that the administrative charges for the upcoming 2024 Local Government Elections are directed at political parties, not individual candidates.

The charges apply to parties fielding candidates for Chairmanship or Councillorship positions in the election.

OGSIEC Chairman, Mr. Babatunde, made this statement during a radio interview in Abeokuta. He explained that the fee aims to boost participation and commitment among political parties. "Each party must pay the administrative fee. People tend to value what they invest in. By paying for their candidates’ forms, parties will demonstrate greater commitment, encouraging more than just a few of the 19 registered parties to show interest," Osibodu said.

Osibodu emphasised that the commission is legally empowered to impose the fee, having sought legal counsel and received approval from the State House of Assembly.

Addressing concerns raised by Hon. Itunu Abioro, Public Relations Officer of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ogun State, Osibodu noted that OGSIEC has the legal authority to establish its own electoral guidelines. He stressed the importance of party participation, stating, "If political parties choose not to participate, they cannot later complain if a single party dominates the election. Non-participation is tantamount to conceding defeat."

Osibodu reaffirmed OGSIEC’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election. He also highlighted the release of the election timetable and guidelines as the first step in the electoral process, assuring that further engagements with political parties and stakeholders will follow. "Everything we do is for the progress of the state," he concluded.

OGUN SWAN HOLDS 2024 PUBLIC LECTURE, INDUCTS MATRON, PATRON

The Surveyors Wives Association of Nigeria (SAWN) has inducted former Surveyor General and Permanent Secretary in Ogun State, Mrs Aderonke Adeyokunnu as Matron and a Distinguished Fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Surv. Banji Akinhanmi as Patron of the Association in recognition of their exceptional support and guidance to the association.

The duo were inducted at the second edition of the SWAN Public lecture titled "The Survival of the Home at all Times especially in an ailing economy" held at NIS Multipurpose Hall, Oke-Imosan. Abeokuta 

While receiving the awards, Surveyor Akinhanmi, on behalf of the inductees, appreciated SWAN Members for the recognition and lauded them for the topic of the lecture, which he described as timely.

The guest lecturer, who is the President, College of Marital Success, Africa's Premier Marriage Institute, Pastor Bisi Adewale in his presentation identified five pillars upon which couples need to build the survival of their homes

According to him, couples must develop financial intelligence by learning how to manage and make money beyond salaries, work to keep themselves healthy by eating and drinking right while taking their time to rest

Adewale further identified building a strong and united marriage, understanding the place of money in marriage and adjusting lifestyle below their earnings and not above as necessary for homes to survive in the present ailing economy

The Chairman of SWAN, Ogun state Chapter, SWAN Oluwakemi Oluwafemi in her welcome address urges every woman to see themselves as lubricants that would keep the family engine running at all times in the present economic situation of the world.

According to her, both husband and wife including the children must strategically plan on how to make things work within the resources available. 

Awards of excellence were given to other members of the Association and Nigerian Institution of Surveyors in recognition of their support to climax the event.

FRSC Partners Ogun NUJ to Reduce Road Accidents

The new Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Ogun, Corp Commander Akinwunmi Fasakin, has pledged to work closely with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the state to reduce incessant road accidents.

Fasakin made this declaration during a courtesy visit to the NUJ Secretariat in Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, on Monday. 

The Commander who was accompanied by the Corp's Public Education Officer, Florence Okpe, stated that upon his assumption, he is determined to hit the ground running by embarking on a public enlightenment programme for road users, hence the need to partner NUJ for a successful engagement.

Fasakin who expressed his displeasure over the narrative of road accidents on Ogun corridor, however warned road users in the state against any act of incivility and promised to collaborate with the NUJ to achieve the Corp’s shared goals.

Fasakin also announced plans to embark on public enlightenment campaigns, manage prompt rescue operations, and implement a safe road policy to ensure safer roads in Ogun state. 

He specifically mentioned the need to address indiscriminate parking along the Ogere road and other critical areas of the state.

Fasakin said “What we are after is to change behavior. FRSC believes in the psychology of punishment which is to change behavior and not the philosophy of punishment. We are after changing behavior. 

“We will manage public enlightenment with enforcement. Public enlightenment without enforcement is a jamboree. We don't want our men to attack the public and we don't want the public to attack our men.

“We are going to embark on a safe road policy so as to have safer roads in Ogun state. We don't believe in enforcement as FRSC, we believe in inculcating the culture of safety in our people that is why we want to embark on public enlightenment. 

Receiving the FRSC boss earlier, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju alongside executives and other members of the Union declared the union’s readiness to work with the FRSC, while pushing for town hall meetings to sensitize people on safe ways of using the roads.

The Chairman expressed concern that the issue of unlatched containers is alarming in the state, adding that it has claimed many lives, hence, the need to work together with the Corps to address the challenge.

Comrade Olanrewaju said “ We will not write anything against FRSC without proper investigation. We will enter into collaboration and partnership to curb accidents. NUJ is ready to collaborate with frsc to organize town hall meetings to sensitize people on safe ways of using the roads. 

“The issue of unlatched containers is alarming, it has claimed many lives. We are ready to collaborate with frsc. We want frsc to participate in the 2024 NUJ press week,”he added.

OGSIEC CALLS FOR MORE PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT IN LG ADMINISTRATION

The Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), has called for more public engagement in the administration of local governments.

The Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, made this call while featuring on a television programme tagged “Ahead of Ogun LG Polls”, in Abeokuta.

Osibodu said, "it is a positive development that people are more interested in the administration of the local government. There is a need for persons of high calibre, with integrity, proven track records, and experience, people who are in the twilight of their life and have something to give back, to come on board in order to have a robust administration at the local government level”.

He assured the citizens of the state that the election will be conducted with sincerity of purpose, without fear or favour, equitable, fair and just to all and sundry, adding that OGSIEC would operate an open door policy for any aggrieved political party, or persons, to come in and express their grievances for redress where appropriate.

The Chairman noted that as part of the electoral process, there would be more engagements with relevant stakeholders, while the commission would commence in earnest advocacy visits to traditional rulers and various groups.

Also speaking, a political analyst, Hon. Aina Akinpelu, commended the efforts of the Federal Government in ensuring local government autonomy, admonishing chairmen who will emerge to have an understanding of what the office entails, as they are more accountable to the people.

OBA ADEMOLA MATERNITY HOSPITAL OFFERS FREE MEDICAL TESTS TO IJEMO INDIGENES

No fewer than 300 sons and daughters of Ijemo in Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State have received free medical screening organised by the Medical team of Oba Ademola Maternity Hospital, Abeokuta, in collaboration with Ijemo Council of Chiefs.

Medical Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Hospital, Dr. Olugbenga Taiwo, who spoke during a medical outreach held to commemorate the 2024 Ijemo Day, said the screening was part of the hospital’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) to its host community, noting that a healthy society would engender better development.

Dr. Taiwo pointed out that the team conducted several medical tests, including screening for Blood Sugar, Urine, Hepatitis, Blood Pressure, Malaria, medical consultation and health counselling.

"Apart from the medical tests conducted, we also gave them health talks on how to live a healthy lifestyle, and we encouraged them to register with the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency", he stated.

On his part, the Oluwo of Ijemoland, Chief Olayinka Kufile expressed delight over the turnout of the people, appreciating the medical team for the outreach, saying it would help the indigenes to know their health status and live good life.

Responding, some of the beneficiaries, Mr. Lekan Ajadi, Mrs. Esther Oyetola, and the Bada of Ijemoland, Olotu Abdullateef Adenekan commended the collaborative gesture of the hospital and the chiefs, saying the outreach had improved their knowledge on how to live a healthy life.

 

Femi Osipitan

OGSIEC RELEASES ELECTORAL GUIDELINES SETS NOV 16 FOR 2024 LG ELECTIONS

 

As part of measures to ensure a free, fair, transparent, and credible electoral process, the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) has released Electoral Guidelines and Timetable for the 2024 Local Government elections . 

The Chairman of the Commission Mr. Babatunde Osibodu at a Stakeholders meeting held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, said the elections are scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Represented by one of the Commissioners at OGSIEC, Mr. Tunji Akoni, Osibodu reiterated the Commission's commitment to conducting "an election that is not only free, fair and credible but also setting a benchmark in the history of Ogun State and Nigeria".

 "We are guided by section 197(1)(b) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, which established State Independent Electoral Commission and section 14(1) and 15(e) of the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (as amended) which empowers the Commission to oversee all Local Government Council elections in the state" he stated.

The Chairman urged all stakeholders to channel their efforts towards gaining political power at the grassroot level, appealing to aspirants to take the guidelines and stipulations seriously throughout the electioneering period.

While fielding questions from the audience, he said "the Commission will supervise all party primaries. We will be physically present. Any shortchanged candidate at any ward level can walk into our offices to complain.

"We shall involve the media and be transparent throughout the electoral process. No candidate shall be discriminated against. As campaign commences from August 9, 2024, I want to advise all political parties to please campaign and let the electorate know you". 

In his remark, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Ganiu Hazmat appealed to all stakeholders and aspirants to help in the democratic process and avoid heating up the polity.

In his goodwill message, the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland and Chairman of Ogun State Council of Obas, Oba kehinde Olugbenle, represented by the Aboro of Ibese, Oba Rotimi Mulero, reemphasised the traditional institution's support for all political parties, admonishing all aspirants and stakeholders to support OGSIEC towards ensuring a smooth democratic process.

Ogun State Government Boosts Female Participation in Technical Trades with Scholarship Initiative

In a concerted effort to improve economic opportunities and financial independence among women, the Ogun State Government, in collaboration with the World Bank through the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), is spearheading initiatives to increase female participation in traditionally male-dominated trades. This initiative includes scholarships for an initial 1,000 girls who enroll in any of the eight Government Science and Technical Colleges for technical trades such as welding, automotive repairs, electrical engineering, carpentry, and joinery. The scholarship covers textbooks, equipment, and stipends for a three-year period, ensuring these young women have the resources they need to succeed.

In a statement signed by the State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, interested candidates who possess either a Basic Education Certificate or Senior School Certificate are to register for their choice of trade and college free through the Ogun State Education Revitalization Agenda (OGSERA) platform by logging into [ogsera.ogunstate.gov.ng/tvet](http://ogsera.ogunstate.gov.ng/tvet) using their Learner's Identification Number (LIN) from Monday, August 5th, to Friday, August 30th, 2024.

In a related development, the Ogun State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, emphasized during a sensitization visit/ community engagement in Ijebu Ode, that the girls' scholarship aims to encourage girls to compete favorably with their male counterparts in the engineering field. This initiative is expected to enhance their economic livelihood and ultimately contribute to the economic advancement of the state and nation.

Also speaking during the stakeholders engagement, the Project Coordinator Mrs. Mosun Owoodusi, represented by the Project Manager, Skills Development Mr Fatai Osunsanya hinted that all the State Government Technical Colleges are being rehabilitated and equipped with modern facilities to meet global standards

2024 WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK: ABIODUN, OTHERS CALL FOR SUPPORT

As part of efforts to improve exclusive breastfeeding rates in Ogun State, Wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, among other stakeholders has called on all and sundry to join hands with government in propagating the practice of breastfeeding babies for the first six months and subsequently.

Mrs. Abiodun, while speaking during the flag-off ceremony to commemorate the 2024 World Breastfeeding week, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, with the theme, “Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All”, emphasised the need for decisive actions to create a supportive environment for all working mothers, both in the formal and informal sectors, to enable them breastfeed their babies appropriately.

The First Lady, represented by Wife of the Ogun Assembly Speaker, Dr. Olayinka Elemide, said the event marked a significant step towards improving exclusive breastfeeding in the state, and underscored the collective efforts required to achieve the critical health targets, stating that the initiative was in alignment with the World Health Assembly’s (WHA) goal, to boost the global rate of exclusive breastfeeding by at least 50 percent by 2025.

She outlined the state government’s commitment to improving breastfeeding practice which include, raising awareness on the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and dismantling associated social stigmas, addressing harmful nutrition norms, such as introduction of water and other pre-lacteal feeds during the first six months, among others.

 ‘’There are several initiatives by the state to combat malnutrition. These include bi-annual Vitamin A supplementation for children aged 6-59 months, the establishment of a Nutrition Kitchen for producing therapeutic foods, and extensive nutrition education programmes for pregnant women and nursing mothers’’, Mrs. Abiodun affirmed.

In her remarks, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, represented by the Executive Secretary, Ogun State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Elijah Ogunsola, said adequate breastfeeding was essential for infants, to provide them with necessary nutrients that would support their physical and emotional well-being, urging families to maximise derivable benefits of the practice for the wellness of mother and child.

In their goodwill messages, representatives of Development Partners, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), commended the state government for the event, imploring mothers to ensure that their children enjoy breastfeeding for them to be well-nourished.

Responding on behalf of other mothers, Mrs. Aminat Yekeen appreciated the government for its unwavering support on the health of mothers and children over the years, enjoining co-mothers to key into the practice of exclusive breastfeeding for proper growth and development of their children.